5 Ways To Write Like Pitchfork

The revered music criticism platform, Pitchfork, has been a benchmark for music journalism since its inception in 1995. Known for its incisive, witty, and often provocative reviews, Pitchfork has established a distinct voice that resonates with music enthusiasts worldwide. If you aspire to write like Pitchfork, here are five ways to hone your craft:

Develop a Strong Critical Voice

Pitchfork's writers are renowned for their sharp opinions and ability to articulate them with conviction. To develop a strong critical voice, you must be confident in your assessments and willing to take a stand. This doesn't mean being contrarian for the sake of it; rather, it involves cultivating a deep understanding of the music and its context. Listen to a wide range of genres, read about music history, and engage with various critical perspectives to inform your opinions.

Be Specific and Detailed in Your Analysis

Pitchfork reviews often dive deep into the sonic and lyrical intricacies of an album or song. To emulate this, focus on specific aspects of the music, such as production techniques, vocal delivery, or instrumental textures. Avoid general statements like "this album is great" or "this song is catchy." Instead, try to pinpoint what makes a particular track or album compelling, and explain your reasoning in detail.

Use Vivid and Engaging Language

Pitchfork's writing is often described as vivid, witty, and engaging. To achieve this, use language that is both descriptive and evocative. Instead of relying on clichés or generic adjectives, try to craft sentences that paint a picture in the reader's mind. For example, instead of saying "the guitar riff is catchy," you could say "the guitar riff is a stuttering, effects-heavy frenzy that burrows deep into your brain."

Contextualize the Music within the Artist's Discography and Genre

Pitchfork reviews often consider an album or song within the context of the artist's broader discography and the genre in which they operate. To do this, research the artist's previous work and discuss how their latest release fits into their overall oeuvre. Additionally, consider the album's place within the genre, including any notable influences, trends, or innovations.

Emphasize the Emotional and Personal Resonance of the Music

Pitchfork's writers often focus on the emotional and personal resonance of the music, rather than simply analyzing its technical aspects. To do this, try to tap into your own emotional response to the music and explore how it might resonate with others. Ask yourself: What does this song or album evoke in me? How does it make me feel? What memories or associations does it conjure?

Keep Your Writing Concise and Free of Jargon

While Pitchfork's writing is often dense and analytical, it's also concise and accessible. Avoid using overly technical language or jargon that might alienate readers. Instead, focus on clear, concise sentences that convey your ideas effectively. Remember, the goal is to communicate your thoughts and opinions, not to show off your musical expertise.

By following these five guidelines, you can develop a writing style that's reminiscent of Pitchfork's incisive and engaging music criticism. Remember to always be specific, detailed, and vivid in your analysis, and don't be afraid to express your opinions and emotions.

Encouraging Engagement

Now that you've learned how to write like Pitchfork, it's time to put your skills into practice! Share your own music reviews and criticisms in the comments below, and engage with other readers who share your passion for music. Let's discuss the latest releases, debate the merits of different genres, and explore the world of music together.