Tonal Concept and Feel

The article challenges the notion that the "total concept and feel" test is a primary driver of expanding copyright liability in music infringement cases. It argues that while this test is often criticized for its subjectivity, it is not the main culprit behind the perceived expansion of copyright protection. Instead, the complexity of expert analysis and the increasing number of musical elements considered in infringement claims—such as harmony, rhythm, and timbre—play a more significant role in shaping outcomes. The author contends that the test is less problematic than often portrayed and that efforts to reform copyright doctrine should focus on these technical and analytical complexities rather than the "total concept and feel" standard.