A LOOK AT MUSIC

Justin Rice '99

Once in a while the Crimson Arts staff likes to take a step back and give things the old once-over--nothing fancy, nothing haute couture-ish, just straightforward reevaluative rumination. This week, the music, always the music: The Crimson sits down with Justin Rice `99.

The Harvard Crimson: This interview is about music, Justin, but you should feel free to talk about other subjects as you see fit. Does this sound acceptable to you?

Justin Rice: Yes.

THC: I notice you play music.

JR: That's correct.

THC: What sort of music do you like to play?

JR: I like to play music that's quirky and by that I mean rhythmically frantic and sparse.

THC: As a reporter, I listen to the radio sometimes. What do you think of the music on today's Top 40 stations?

JR: I think it's important to listen to Top 40 stations all the time so that you can know what's going on out there in the world. I like Top 40 radio. I like that it's often so saccharine, and it mostly amuses you.

THC: Going back to what you said earlier--that you play music--what instrument do you play?

JR: Guitar, bass, keyboard--mostly guitar. Some drums, too. But mostly guitar.

THC: Do you play in a band? If so, what band? If more than one, please list.

JR: One: Tactic. Two: Depeche Mode. That's it right now, although there have been others in the past.