Creating Calm Through Song Structure.

Creating Calm Through Song Structure.

From Hack Music Theory by Ray Harmony

May 19, 2026 · 4 min

About this episode

The episode discusses how to create a calming musical experience through unconventional song structures, inspired by the band Tamikrest.

Creating Calm Through Song Structure . How to make a sonic sanctuary, like Tamikrest. My favourite Saharan rock band Tamikrest just released their new album “Assikel”, and I’ve had it on repeat this week. Why? Well firstly, this is a mesmerizing collection of songs that make me feel good. I can sense the warmth emanating from their laidback desert grooves. And considering it’s the middle of May and we’ve just had more snow here in Alberta, I’m well up for their hot Saharan vibes! Another reason I love this album is that it was recorded live in the studio, to analogue tape. That’s what I’m talkin’ about! It’s the only way to capture the magical synergy that’s created when a great band performs together. It’s been a rare method of recording since the 1950s, when multitrack recorders became common in studios. So for this reason alone, Tamikrest’s new album is worth a listen. But my favourite thing about “Assikel” is the unusual song structures. And that’s something we can all learn from this band. Their songs are not structured like regular songs, which switch back and forth between verse and chorus sections. When it’s done well, that switching is stimulating. But, the downside of…

People in this episode

Host: Ray Harmony

Topics covered

  • song structure
  • calm music
  • Saharan rock
  • Tamikrest
  • live recording
  • music theory

Keywords

  • calm
  • song structure
  • Tamikrest
  • Assikel
  • Saharan rock
  • live recording
  • music theory

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Tamikrest

Books & works: Assikel

Places: Alberta

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