As if the brilliance that is Pandora® hadn't been highlighted on here enough already, today's suggestion comes straight from the heart of some exploring my friend and I did on there recently.
Artist: Mad Caddies
These guys are about as ska-punk as you can get, combining the best elements of each genre with flair. Their unique sound also has callbacks to such genres as swing, reggae, jazz, Spanish, polka, cowpunk and sea shanties. Needless to say, they're a very eclectic group, and it truly shows in their music.
Some of their standout tracks include;
• Coyote
• Just One More
• Last Breath
• Lay Your Head Down
• Reflections
• Save Us
• Souls for Sale
• Tired Bones
Even if you're not as inclined to give ska in general a fair chance, you might not want to ignore this one. Between all of the interesting genre directions they've taken, their ska-roots have consistently been laced with punk. And hand-in-hand with punk naturally comes a little bit of a rock taste.
If none of that convinces you, how could you possibly justify ignoring a band whose live album is entitled "Live from Toronto: Songs in the Key of Eh!"? That's what I thought.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
I Come Alive
There's something to be said for top ten lists, especially those of the "Top Songs of 2012 (So Far)" variety.
Song: I Come Alive
Artist: The Used
Okay, the list I read was on Loudwire.com, so it was more or less the top rock/metal songs of 2012 (so far). This track came in number 5, and after listening to it, I've come to the conclusion that those four songs that supposedly bested it must be ridiculously amazing in order to beat this gem.
To picture what this song sounds like, imagine if you will, taking the creepiness of "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and combining it with a post-hardcore sound, in addition to a little bit of a catchy pop vibe. Oh, and you can't forget the lovely "wubwubwub" of dubstep. I kid you not, there is literally a dubstep beat within this song, used very tastefully as a matter of fact. All of those elements combine to create a very striking piece.
In this song, Bert McCracken's vocal range has found that perfect balance between melodic, desperate and heavy. The outstanding rhythm section follows the trends of the song, through all the various themes of the verses, choruses and the haunting bridge section.
The Used is a very unique band, so it seems only fitting that they were able to compose a track with a number of interesting instrumentation choices that could theoretically please the ears of a diehard rock fan while at the same time also pleasing those of someone with more poppy inclinations.
This is only the first single from their upcoming record Vulnerable which drops on March 27. If this track is any indication of what is to come later, I will be counting down the days to their release with eager anticipation.
Song: I Come Alive
Artist: The Used
Okay, the list I read was on Loudwire.com, so it was more or less the top rock/metal songs of 2012 (so far). This track came in number 5, and after listening to it, I've come to the conclusion that those four songs that supposedly bested it must be ridiculously amazing in order to beat this gem.
To picture what this song sounds like, imagine if you will, taking the creepiness of "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and combining it with a post-hardcore sound, in addition to a little bit of a catchy pop vibe. Oh, and you can't forget the lovely "wubwubwub" of dubstep. I kid you not, there is literally a dubstep beat within this song, used very tastefully as a matter of fact. All of those elements combine to create a very striking piece.
In this song, Bert McCracken's vocal range has found that perfect balance between melodic, desperate and heavy. The outstanding rhythm section follows the trends of the song, through all the various themes of the verses, choruses and the haunting bridge section.
The Used is a very unique band, so it seems only fitting that they were able to compose a track with a number of interesting instrumentation choices that could theoretically please the ears of a diehard rock fan while at the same time also pleasing those of someone with more poppy inclinations.
This is only the first single from their upcoming record Vulnerable which drops on March 27. If this track is any indication of what is to come later, I will be counting down the days to their release with eager anticipation.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
System...
After having this song in my head on repeat for a few days now, I felt it was highly deserving of its own post on here. My apologies in advance if like me, you can't keep this out of your head for more than 10 minutes at a time.
Song: System...
Artist: Enter Shikari
I'd been toying with the idea of mentioning this post-hard/metal/electroni core band on here for a while, and when I was exposed to some of the songs off of their recent release, I knew I would be mentioning at least one. Basically, this song is above all others unlike anything I have ever heard. It's only a couple minutes long, but those are two very poignant minutes to say the least.
Whether or not the orchestral tracking is real or just synthesized, it aides extremely well in the creation of a very deep mood that helps to paint a very striking image in your mind. Complemented very well by the range of different vocal techniques and subtle guitar strokes, this song has a building sort of feel to it, and the intensity ratchets up a notch with each note played/sung. Personally, I can't listen to it without being completely drawn in, partially because of the intricate metaphor it, and the rest of the record as well, seems to be based around.
And, for any and all fans of the British accent, Enter Shikari is a British band, and there is a spoken word part in this track. Just letting you know.
Song: System...
Artist: Enter Shikari
I'd been toying with the idea of mentioning this post-hard/metal/electroni core band on here for a while, and when I was exposed to some of the songs off of their recent release, I knew I would be mentioning at least one. Basically, this song is above all others unlike anything I have ever heard. It's only a couple minutes long, but those are two very poignant minutes to say the least.
Whether or not the orchestral tracking is real or just synthesized, it aides extremely well in the creation of a very deep mood that helps to paint a very striking image in your mind. Complemented very well by the range of different vocal techniques and subtle guitar strokes, this song has a building sort of feel to it, and the intensity ratchets up a notch with each note played/sung. Personally, I can't listen to it without being completely drawn in, partially because of the intricate metaphor it, and the rest of the record as well, seems to be based around.
And, for any and all fans of the British accent, Enter Shikari is a British band, and there is a spoken word part in this track. Just letting you know.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
This Is War
Seeing as I am fond of music videos that play out more like short films, what better band to watch videos from than one whose lead singer also doubles as an actor?
Song: This Is War
Artist: 30 Seconds to Mars
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zcps2fJKuAI&feature=related
It's honestly been a while since I have been seriously moved by a music video, and I literally cannot make it through this one without getting chills. I've seen many music videos where the backdrop of war is utilized, so when I say that this is probably the most moving use of such a theme, I kind of have a base I'm coming from.
The filming techniques they used in this video are astounding, and they really add to the overall ambiance of it. There's nothing in particular I want to call out, but you'll hopefully see what I'm talking about if/when you take this suggestion seriously. Also, the addition of real-life footage, such as mini-clips involving JFK and George W. Bush, provide a cultural reference for the meaning of the video, as well as that of the song itself.
Speaking of the actual song, I haven't heard enough of 30 Seconds to Mars' music to formulate an educated opinion on their sound, but I can say that for at least this song Jared Leto's voice is absolutely perfect. Going along with that, the instrumentation behind him also aids in the climax of the pre-chorus into the chorus, which comes off as powerful to say the least.
Although the second half of the video or so strays away from reality, the message it contains still pertains to real life, past and present. Personally, I can't listen to the song itself now without drawing from it the meaning that was derived from this video as it is so compelling.
Song: This Is War
Artist: 30 Seconds to Mars
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zcps2fJKuAI&feature=related
It's honestly been a while since I have been seriously moved by a music video, and I literally cannot make it through this one without getting chills. I've seen many music videos where the backdrop of war is utilized, so when I say that this is probably the most moving use of such a theme, I kind of have a base I'm coming from.
The filming techniques they used in this video are astounding, and they really add to the overall ambiance of it. There's nothing in particular I want to call out, but you'll hopefully see what I'm talking about if/when you take this suggestion seriously. Also, the addition of real-life footage, such as mini-clips involving JFK and George W. Bush, provide a cultural reference for the meaning of the video, as well as that of the song itself.
Speaking of the actual song, I haven't heard enough of 30 Seconds to Mars' music to formulate an educated opinion on their sound, but I can say that for at least this song Jared Leto's voice is absolutely perfect. Going along with that, the instrumentation behind him also aids in the climax of the pre-chorus into the chorus, which comes off as powerful to say the least.
Although the second half of the video or so strays away from reality, the message it contains still pertains to real life, past and present. Personally, I can't listen to the song itself now without drawing from it the meaning that was derived from this video as it is so compelling.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
One
I've never really known Metallica for their music videos, but this one is too extraordinary to pass up.
Song: One
Artist: Metallica
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WM8bTdBs-cw&feature=relmfu
For this music video to make sense, you have to know the back-story of the song itself.
It's based off the 1939 anti-war novel "Johnny Got His Gun" by Dalton Trumbo, which tells the story of Joe Bonham, an American soldier who is wounded World War 1. He lost his arms, legs as well as his ability to hear, speak or smell, but he remains conscious and able to think, so he relives his life through memroies, unable to distinguish whether he is awake or dreaming. Trapped inside his own mind, he finds a unique way to communicate with his doctors that if they're not going to just let him die, he wants to travel around the country as a sort of "freak show" to display the true horrors of war.
What makes the video so powerful is that it combines shots of the band performing with clips from the movie based off of that novel. The balance it creates is pretty chilling, and it makes it that much easier to see the haunting connection between the two.
As for the song itself, it's often hailed as one of Metallica's greatest, which given their impressive discography means a lot. Between the poignant verses, driving choruses and one heck of a transition about 60% of the way through the song, "One" is an amazing blend of Metallica's many styles, and stands as testament to their stunning musicality.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Luna Espera EP
When someone suggests an album (or EP) with the premise that they can't stop listening to it, I always think they must be exaggerating. That's how I was introduced to this gem, and if you're like me, you won't believe me when I say this, but I honestly can't stop listening to it. I tried, trust me.
Album: Luna Espera EP
Artist: MWK
This EP only contains five songs, but as MWK (Midwest Kings) are really a regional touring band, that's to be expected somewhat.
I haven't listened to a whole lot from this group, but based on what I have listened to and what I've read from people who have listened to a whole lot from this group, this EP is a departure from their prior style. Luna Espera has a much more flowing, rock/alternative sound. Overall it's very low-key, almost ambient at times. However, there are still some parts in songs like "The Captain, His Ship" that stay truer to a more traditional rock influence.
Throughout it all, it's singer Andy Skib's beautifully mellow voice that defines this EP, in addition to the intriguing, often unconventional, lyrics. The precise instrumentation provides the ideal background to make Luna Espera as amazing as it is.
I'd highly recommend giving MWK a try, even if their style doesn't exactly seem like what you're used to listening to. It's worth it, really.
Album: Luna Espera EP
Artist: MWK
This EP only contains five songs, but as MWK (Midwest Kings) are really a regional touring band, that's to be expected somewhat.
I haven't listened to a whole lot from this group, but based on what I have listened to and what I've read from people who have listened to a whole lot from this group, this EP is a departure from their prior style. Luna Espera has a much more flowing, rock/alternative sound. Overall it's very low-key, almost ambient at times. However, there are still some parts in songs like "The Captain, His Ship" that stay truer to a more traditional rock influence.
Throughout it all, it's singer Andy Skib's beautifully mellow voice that defines this EP, in addition to the intriguing, often unconventional, lyrics. The precise instrumentation provides the ideal background to make Luna Espera as amazing as it is.
I'd highly recommend giving MWK a try, even if their style doesn't exactly seem like what you're used to listening to. It's worth it, really.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Life Is Beautiful
I like to think of this suggestion as a testament to why everyone should listen to Pandora radio.
Song: Life Is Beautiful
Artist: Sixx:A.M.
A couple weeks ago, I listened to this band for the first time. Last night, on Pandora, this song came up and I knew right away it was going to be my next post on here.
Aside from it being an essentially traditional hard rock track, there's something indescribable about it that makes it unique, and I can't quite put my finger on it. At times, it feels like it's in a major key, but sometimes, most notably during the chorus, it seems to slip into a minor tonality. I'm no music major, so I have no clue if that's actually what's going on, but at least to me that's what it kind of sounds like.
Throughout the song the guitars are absolutely exceptional, from acoustic to electric, nicely complimenting Nikki Sixx's haunting vocals. The drums are also perfect: not too overstated but still a very much present backdrop that drives/powers the entire track.
If you take the time to look this song up, once you discover what it's about/what inspired Sixx to write it, it takes on a whole new, more troubling, meaning that stands to describe the mixed emotions the instrumentation and vocalization provokes.
And, if it turns out you feel like I do about this song and can't stop listening to it, you'll be happy to know that there's even a very beautiful acoustic version of it.
Song: Life Is Beautiful
Artist: Sixx:A.M.
A couple weeks ago, I listened to this band for the first time. Last night, on Pandora, this song came up and I knew right away it was going to be my next post on here.
Aside from it being an essentially traditional hard rock track, there's something indescribable about it that makes it unique, and I can't quite put my finger on it. At times, it feels like it's in a major key, but sometimes, most notably during the chorus, it seems to slip into a minor tonality. I'm no music major, so I have no clue if that's actually what's going on, but at least to me that's what it kind of sounds like.
Throughout the song the guitars are absolutely exceptional, from acoustic to electric, nicely complimenting Nikki Sixx's haunting vocals. The drums are also perfect: not too overstated but still a very much present backdrop that drives/powers the entire track.
If you take the time to look this song up, once you discover what it's about/what inspired Sixx to write it, it takes on a whole new, more troubling, meaning that stands to describe the mixed emotions the instrumentation and vocalization provokes.
And, if it turns out you feel like I do about this song and can't stop listening to it, you'll be happy to know that there's even a very beautiful acoustic version of it.
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