Nothing but Noise: Timbre and Musical Meaning at the Edge.

Zachary Wallmark's book, "Nothing but Noise: Timbre and Musical Meaning at the Edge," explores the field of timbre studies and its challenges. The book discusses the lack of clear definitions and technical vocabulary surrounding timbre, as well as the debate over its empirical nature or subjective experience. Wallmark introduces the "ASPECS" model to bridge the gap between empirical and cultural approaches to timbre. The book includes case studies on free jazz, Shakuhachi performance, and heavy metal, examining the role of noisy timbres and their impact on the listener. Wallmark also explores the ethical implications of timbre, particularly in relation to racial difference. Overall, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of timbre and its significance in music, considering diverse perspectives and cultural contexts. [Extracted from the article]