The jukebox is a good indication of the character of both the bar and the patrons. Each jukebox varies, based on location. At Club FTs it features Radiohead, Hendrix, various garage rock bands, and Nine Inch Nails. At Ye Olde Bar, it’s Waits, Rolling Stones (some Exile on Main Street), and classic rock variances. Here, its….
Logically, the choice of a bar should involve an initial stage of carefully inspecting a jukebox’s selection. Gauging the character of a bar is formulaic. It is often as simple as studying the albums and artists. Sometimes inconsistences arise, but homogenous selection is generally a good indicator. It is interesting that the process of selection should be so entirely conformist, that the jukebox conforms to the bar. It is the mathematical equation, algorithm really, that determines its character.
With the jukebox, choice is entirely a deception. It provides a consuming illusion of preference to the bar patrons. The options are entirely aligned, predetermined from the onset. The selection is fixed and invariable. Throughout the night, brightly lit pages flip inconsistently. They study the albums and artists intently. This is an involved and discriminating effort to assure “good taste.” The jukebox selection is a process of affirming a position amongst the regulars, of affirming one’s musical preferences, through selection from that which has already been selected.
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