The Heart Is A Drum Machine

The Heart Is A Drum Machine is a thought-provoking documentary released in 2009. The movie is a fascinating exploration into the elusive and enduring love affair between humanity and music. It seeks to understand the captivating and magical groove that pervades human existence. Directed by Christopher Pomerenke, the film harnesses the insight and perspectives from a vast array of musicians, artists, scientists, and philosophers to really probe the depths of what music is and why it's such a fundamental and universal human experience.

The film stars Jim Adkins from the band Jimmy Eat World, glam rocker Mickey Avalon, and actress-musician Fairuza Balk, better known for her acting work in films such as "The Craft" and "Almost Famous." These are among a whole host of other notable musicians and personalities who all offer their unique insights into what music means to them and its overall impact on the psyche of human beings.

The Heart Is A Drum Machine takes a wide-angled viewpoint on music. It does not limit itself only to popular perceptions and mainstream tastes. It tries to unearth the essence of music and its role in different circumstances, cultures, and mental states. To realize this lofty goal, the film borrows from folk, classical, rock, pop, electronic music, and babblings from diverse cultures.

The film's title, "The Heart Is A Drum Machine," provides a poetic synopsis of its contents. It encapsulates the assertion that music is innate to the human body, as integral as the beating heart. This statement, both philosophical and biological, draws parallels between the rhythm of the heart and the rhythm of music.

On the one hand, Jim Adkins provides a popular musician's perspective, throwing light on how music affects the mind, forms identity, and invokes emotions like nothing else. His recollections and thoughts about his own musical experiences provide a living testament to the power and impact of music.

Mickey Avalon showcases the subversive and rebellious side of music. He divulges into how music became an extravagant and liberating force in his life, instigating changes and igniting resilience. His fascinating life story as a drug-addicted teenager turned rockstar adds an extra layer to the wide-ranging discussion on music.

Fairuza Balk, with her dual identity as an actor and musician, pitches in with a unique perspective about how music has been instrumental in her life and work. Her contribution underlines the intersectionality of music with other art forms and life in general.

The film also features John Frusciante, former guitarist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who covers an entirely instrumental version of the song "I Feel Love" for the film's daring space-themed soundtrack.

Overall, The Heart Is A Drum Machine is not just a movie but a captivating symphony that manages to encapsulate the spectrum of human connection to music. It is a visually stunning, emotional and enlightening exploration of the power of music that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt moved by a song.

The documentary attempts to analyze music at both the micro and macro levels, ultimately emphasizing that music is a universal language and common denominator among people of all races and backgrounds. It invites the audience to plunge into an auditory wonderland and contemplate the impact and importance of music in human existence.

This thought experiment is enveloped in high-quality cinematography and excellent filmmaking. The evident hard work and dedication poured into the making of 'The Heart Is A Drum Machine' result in this powerful tribute to the amazing world of music.

In essence, The Heart is A Drum Machine is more than a documentary; it is a celebration of sound and its emotional significance. Whether you're an avid music fan or have a passing interest in the subject, you're likely to find something of note in this contemplative and expansive exploration of music's place in our lives.