The Evolution of Cool

This podcast episode explores the concept of "cool" in music, discussing its evolutionary origins and biological foundations. The host, Dale McGowan, shares his personal experiences with music and his fascination with the "cool" factor. He then delves into research by Daniel Levitin, which reveals the neurological basis of "cool" in music. McGowan explains how the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement and balance, also acts as a "timekeeper" that helps us predict and synchronize with rhythms. He highlights the interplay between on-beat and off-beat rhythms, using examples from Tower of Power and Stevie Wonder's music to illustrate how unpredictable syncopations create excitement and interest.