When I was a kid, my mom got me Maurice Ravel’s “Bolero” record. I don’t remember what else was on it, but I do remember that the main piece–Bolero–was extremely repetitive. I liked it though. It always seemed really soothing as it started off, then as it progressed to the crescendo, it seemed to get more violent and agitated. Come to find out later in life that it was written to simulate the slow descent into insanity. Or something like that. That’s pretty amazing.

The other piece that I remember well from my formative is the William Tell Overture. Most of you would recognize the 3rd movement as “That Zorro Show Them Song” from something like the 50s or something. Regardless, there’s a lot more to it than just the “theme song.” It’s actually a very melodic, lulling piece before you get to the 3rd movement.

Now, having said that, I challenge any of you to throw that on your mp3 player of choice, play it, and not bounce up and down while driving. It’s the ultimate riding tune! We used to drive around to that in college. What a blast …