Iceman & TapeLover
Iceman Iceman
Hey, I’ve been thinking about how to systematically rate B‑side tracks for long‑term preservation. Do you have any ideas on a numeric scoring model that balances artistic value with historical context?
TapeLover TapeLover
Sure thing. I usually break it into three big buckets and then break those down into little points you can score 1 to 10. 1. **Artistic value** – Think of how the track stands on its own. • Originality of melody or lyric (1‑10) • Technical skill of performance (1‑10) • Production quality for the time (1‑10) 2. **Historical context** – How the song fits into the bigger picture. • Release era relevance (1‑10) – did it come out during a big shift? • Influence on later artists or genres (1‑10) – any obvious nods? • Availability & rarity (1‑10) – was it a limited pressing, a promo only? 3. **Personal resonance** – The little extra that makes it worth keeping. • Emotional impact (1‑10) – does it tug at something? • Fan response / cult status (1‑10) – underground love or cult following? • Archival value (1‑10) – does it add depth to the catalog or fill a gap? Weight them roughly: Artistic (40%), Historical (35%), Personal (25%). Add the weighted scores together for a final score out of 10. Keep a running spreadsheet, tag each track, and you’ll have a systematic way to say why a dusty B‑side is a gem worth saving.
Iceman Iceman
Looks solid—nice balance between objective metrics and the subtle vibe that makes a B‑side stick. Just keep the data clean, and the spreadsheet will do the rest.
TapeLover TapeLover
Glad it clicks—just keep the numbers tidy and let the sheet do the heavy lifting. You’ll end up with a clear map of those hidden gems.
Iceman Iceman
Nice. Numbers stay clean, the sheet stays clean, and the gems stay found.
TapeLover TapeLover
Sounds like a tidy tri‑fold—good luck hunting those hidden treasures.
Iceman Iceman
Glad you’re set—good luck finding the treasures.
TapeLover TapeLover
Thanks! Catch those whispers before they slip away.
Iceman Iceman
I'll keep my focus tight, let the data guide me, and preserve the quiet notes before they fade.