The semester’s second installation of Deep Cuts and Conversation took place on Oct. 11. Where BC professors Reggie Williams and Kyle Burnham and students discussed religious undertones in music.
The conversation began with one student and member of the audience requesting they play the song, “Take me out” by Franz Ferdinand. The track has a descending bassline that is pleasant to the ear. Kyle Burnham shared with the audience that the Scottish rock band was inspired by music played in American sports like football while making the song.
The next song played was “Bombtrack” by Rage Against the Machine and was also suggested by another audience member for its connection to protesting and religion. Kyle quickly pointed out the unique rhythm section which displayed a more laid-back feel while the lead guitar and vocals were delivered with high intensity.
On the subject of protest music, Kyle made his next choice and played “Burning Beard” by the band Clutch. Reggie first pointed out the “Pentecostal overtones” which featured the band playing in church to a crowd of robots. He also touched on the theme of unconditional faith in the lyrics and how it could potentially harm one’s ability to think freely.
The final selection was “The Patient” by TOOL. The seven-minute track was picked by Reggie continuing the subject of religion. He spoke a little bit about the double meaning behind the word patient and how it related to religious followers of any kind. The song starts slowly but eventually builds up and tells a greater story on how the lead singer deals with his own struggles with faith.
“My favorite part about Deep Cuts is just getting to sit down with students and music professionals and just appreciating good music,” Reggie Williams said.
The final installment of Deeps Cuts and Conversations is scheduled for Nov. 8 at 1:30 p.m.