Fair Use: The Story of the Letter U and the Numeral 2
72 min · 10 tracks · experimental music
A collage of samples, spoken word, and experimental soundscapes challenging copyright norms and artistic expression.
Why this album works
This album is significant for its critical exploration of copyright issues in the music industry, particularly highlighted by the track 'Please Don't Sue Us'. Its satirical take on intellectual property sparked conversations around fair use, making it a notable work within the realm of experimental music.
- Best for
- thought-provoking spoken word segments gradual build towards extended climax collage of eclectic soundscapes
- Context
- Released in 1995, 'Fair Use' was Negativland's follow-up to the controversial album 'U2', which faced legal challenges for its provocative content. At this point in their career, they were well-established as pioneers of sampling-based music, pushing boundaries in both sound and message.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Frank Zappa· Glenn Branca· Aphex Twin
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Snuggles 2:44
- 2 Keep Your Evenings Free 4:17
- 3 Please Don't Sue Us Standout 4:02
- 4 Gimme the Mermaid 4:29
- 5 It Ain't Legit 4:30
- 6 You Must Respect Copyright Standout 2:30
- 7 How Long Have You Been Waiting for U2? Standout 7:46
- 8 A Nickel per Fish Sandwich 7:59
- 9 Only a Sample 8:01
- 10 Crosley Bendix Discusses the U.S. Copyright Act 25:56
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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