After listening to The Beatles’ track Taxman using my headphones, I heard the significant difference between the rights and left sounding tracks. First, the mono version was recorded in 1966 using the 4-track tape machine (The Beatles, n. d.). The mono mix is slightly distorted due to the bass line presented by McCartney, which is by the way considered to imitate the one of Motown. The mono version seems smooth, and the track’s rhythm is centered. Moreover, I liked the way the band’s voice sounds since it is incredibly clear and soft. The interments can also be heard in the mono version, which is pleasant to differentiate. On the other hand, the stereo mix sounds more dynamic, which makes one want to move. Yet, it distracts the listener from the lyrics and instead focuses on the beats. Therefore, I prefer listening to the monaural version of Taxman recorded in 1966 since it creates a better perception of lyrics and rhythm.
Martin Gaye’s What’s Going On? has strong background instrumental arrangement, including classical music orchestration. This accompaniment makes the solo singing sound even more powerful. Gaye’s track recorded at Motown in 1971 creates a strong sense of affective emotions; in particular, it is conditioned by box drumming and jazz elements. In addition, more instruments can be distinguished in the background. Yet, the technologies change as the time goes by, and the 4-track tape is not enough now to transmit each different rhythm, voice, and instrument playing. The 8-track tape is obsolete now as well; however, Martin Gaye managed to record his songs onto this tape. In the future, these will completely disappear and will be substituted by 24-track tape recorders since the audio formats will require new signal transmission standards.
Reference
The Beatles. (n. d.). “Taxman” history.