General readership review of a different, but perhaps related, CD for the Spectrum or another publication. (70)

Length: three to four pages.

Due: Monday September 22

Value: 20 points for draft, 50 points for final review.

Purpose:  the purpose of a review in a publication like NDSU's newspaper, the Spectrum, or a music magazine like Rolling Stone, is not simply to recommend a CD or not, but it is to entertain and inform readers about the musician(s), and perhaps music in general.  The example CD review in Call to Write is a great example of an informative review. 

Genre:  the informative and entertaining review.  The evaluation is important, but entertaining and informing readers is definitely a genre convention.  Some research might be necessary in order to provide some information about the artist, his/her other work, his/her reputation. There is room for some creativity within this genre, but with only a few exceptions, standard English and proper editing of material will be expected. 

Audience:  While your classmates will again be important audience members, I hope that most of you actually submit your review to the Spectrum, the High Plains Reader, an online music site, or some other appropriate venue.  It will probably be very important to establish your credibility—show off your knowledge of the musician you are reviewing.  Maybe you will get invited to be a regular contributor, and get free CDs or concert tickets.  

Voice:  the voice you need to use here will probably be a bit more formal and professional than the commercial review you did previous to this one.  I can imagine some exceptions where you will want to experiment with a voice appropriate to the subject matter, but professional reviewers often try to build up a reputation and a consistent voice.

Social Context:  If you follow through and submit your review for publication, you will really being trying to establish an identity or reputation through print.  If you don't submit your review for publication, remember that your instructor is reading to see how well you can mimic the knowledge, voice, and conventions of "professional" reviewers. 

Grading—I am going to look for three things:

• How well you follow the conventions of the genre, particularly backing up your claims and showing knowledge of the artist or genre.
• How effectively you establish a relationship with the audience: let readers know where you are coming from, and give signs or your expertise.
• How effectively you use a writing voice that engages most readers: show some enthusiasm, but temper it with a professional approach to the review.