(Orig. posted 12/9/08) After much thought, I've formulated a way to determine if a band is taking their music (and themselves) far too seriously.

I call it The Histrionic Paradigm. It's very simple.

When listening to a band's music, imagine whether or not it would seem natural for the singer to sing the song on bended knee, with one hand on his/her heart, and with the other hand extended to the heavens. (OR grasping forward, presumably at the audience.)

**IMPORTANT CAVEAT: The band/singer is NOT trying to be deliberately ironic.**

The original perpetrator of the Histrionic Paradigm: Bruce Springsteen.
(Not even close. Just watch The Boss's face when he performs. That is, if you can bear it.)

Notable offenders between Springsteen and the present era:
- Journey (Steve Perry era)
- Eddie Money
- Bryan Adams
- Michael Bolton
- Sting (post-Police)
- Pearl Jam (specifically their "And Now You Know" songs, such as "Jeremy," "Black" and "Dissident." However, "Daughter" is a big exception; it's great without trying too hard.)


Recent bands that immediately spring to mind:

- Muse
- Nickelback
- The Killers
- Linkin Park
- Bloc Party (more so in their early work, they've loosened up over time)
- Fall Out Boy
- AFI
- Panic! at the Disco
- Disturbed (just listen to "Stricken")

Is a trend emerging? I think so.

Further suggestions are more than welcome.