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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- thought-provoking spoken word segments
- gradual build towards extended climax
- collage of eclectic soundscapes
- experimental exploration of copyright themes
Maybe skip if you want
- prefer straightforward, catchy tunes
- avoid lengthy, abstract compositions
Where this album fits
- Career 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
- The Residents· Throbbing Gristle· John Zorn
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 4:02
- 4 Gimme the Mermaid 4:29
- 5 It Ain't Legit 4:30
- 6 You Must Respect Copyright 2:30
- 7 How Long Have You Been Waiting for U2? 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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