Protest songs aren’t uncommon by any means, but a protest song against music is, well, quite daring. That’s what One Cure for Man, a musical project made by James Parkinson, very successfully did with his newest single ‘Too Many Songs’.

James, in ‘Too Many Songs’, very boldly makes the statement that songs are quite one-directional nowadays, lost in the same chord progressions, the same melodies. While that claim is subjective, it holds a very strong stance that begs the question – how does James do, musically, to counter that? Wouldn’t it be ironic if James fell for the same trap that he criticizes? Another subjective opinion, but as a music theory teacher, I am absolutely impressed at the musical prowess displayed in this track, and truly believed ‘Too Many Songs’ is extremely successful at what One Cure for Man attempted.

The chord progression, while mostly sticking to one key, does wonders with making very beautiful jumps from one chord to another, knowing when to slow for the melody to take spotlight. The melody in question is hypnotizing and catchy, cleverly wavering through those jumping chords filled with extended harmonies. The synchronizing piano/vocal melody in the chorus is especially powerful, and the way the former communicates with the strongly-sung vocal hooks is extremely well thought-of. The guitar solo that introduces the final chorus is powerful and delivers a statement in itself, which is really what a solo should do. The composition is also quite unique by itself, there are many different influences found here that, in its marriage, give ‘Too Many Songs’ its unique identity. I wouldn’t be surprised, however, if James pointed to Steve Porcaro, or more broadly Toto, as primary inspiration. The same beautiful melodies and chord changes are very similar between the two, both of very similar quality.

‘Too Many Songs’ is a statement of a song. It takes very great risk in its musical interpretation and its subject matter, and One Cure for All does a wonderful job confidently delivering those messages through the song. The fact alone that James performed the entire song, save for the drums performed by his brother Ben, is insanely impressive and doesn’t act as a hindrance on the song whatsoever. In fact, the fact that this is almost entirely James’ stream of consciousness might’ve been the best thing for ‘Too Many Songs’.

Author: Nicholas Gaudet

Music producer and writer from Dieppe, Canada.