YOU KNOW WHAT? FORMER SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY LARRY SUMMERS WAS RIGHT; TAKE AWAY THE MUSIC AND THE KILLERS ARE A PRETTY GOOD BAND
Rocking out to the sweet sounds of silence
by Chaz Pinkle, Music and Money Columnist
YOU KNOW WHAT? FORMER SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY LARRY SUMMERS WAS RIGHT; TAKE AWAY THE MUSIC AND THE KILLERS ARE A PRETTY GOOD BAND
That's right, folks, Chaz Pinkle comin’ in with another hot scoop of music and money news! In an offhand remark during a recent discussion about inflation and the state of the US economy, none other than Larry Summers commented that he had been contemplating the specific economics of selling a product like a home stereo or radio whose volume function went all the way down, when play could simply be stopped or turned off. Maybe, he posited, that it was because, “some music just sounded better at zero volume.” You know what? He was right!
Summers listed several bands that he believed benefited from a zero-volume listening experience, and the Killers were among those on his list. Now, I must admit, I've never been the biggest fan of the band's music. But when a former Treasury Secretary offers a hot take on musical economics, you know I just have to take notice! I immediately popped in my earbuds, jumped on Spotify, and cued up 2004's "Hot Fuss," and HOLY COW, Larry Summers was RIGHT!
Let me tell you; the first couple of tracks hit me like a sonic revelation - I can see why the Killers are so popular! The catchy hooks, Brandon Flowers' distinctive vocals, and that undeniable energy—all completely inaudible! My head was bopping like there was no tomorrow! Track number six was by far my favorite; three minutes and fourteen seconds of absolute listening pleasure! It was as if the music had transcended its auditory limitations and reached a new level of sonic greatness at zero volume. I felt like I was on a musical journey through the very fabric of quiet space and time.
Let me say it again, former Obama appointee to the National Economic Council Larry Summers is right; The Killers are, indeed, a band worth experiencing at zero volume.
So, let this be a lesson to all of us: when Larry Summers speaks, you should probably listen. Who knows what other hidden musical treasures might be lurking in the amazing world of complete silence? For now, I'm going to crank up the Killers to zero and enjoy that sweet, sweet musical bliss! Thanks, Larry Summers, for showing us the way!
