tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57048152862953200552024-03-06T01:52:41.062-05:00Inspired By Reviewscocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comBlogger194125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-26725348247009755502017-03-04T20:00:00.000-05:002017-03-05T02:01:56.712-05:00While She Sleeps - "Silence Speaks feat. Oli Sykes" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFViB-5SIEEgy1nXhlUM7HHHndx78dlo3eH0ueWX_hI94GCQ_lYJY5GlF6_VDRb4-qantmxkuEs18eJ-krohHAxxioUHrsW-4Wmzg98gM9i2vEhsmOskVg4_d7l7XYpnUXkPoroapX2VQ/s1600/3ce63eb5577c089fa14c976f8e1d0790.960x960x1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFViB-5SIEEgy1nXhlUM7HHHndx78dlo3eH0ueWX_hI94GCQ_lYJY5GlF6_VDRb4-qantmxkuEs18eJ-krohHAxxioUHrsW-4Wmzg98gM9i2vEhsmOskVg4_d7l7XYpnUXkPoroapX2VQ/s200/3ce63eb5577c089fa14c976f8e1d0790.960x960x1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As far as British metalcore goes, <b>While She Sleeps</b> are one of the rising stars to watch. 2 solid albums already under their belt, the band continues their road to the forefront of their field with their new single off their 3rd full length album, <b>"You Are We"</b>. Throwing in Oli Sykes of <b>Bring Me the Horizon</b> doesn't hurt either. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To preorder the band's album on iTunes click the following (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/you-are-we/id1206135660">link</a>). And to check out the band's tour dates go to their <a href="http://whileshesleeps.com/">website</a>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band's style of melodic metalcore has steadily progressed from good, to better, to great. This latest single from the band showcases everything right about their sound. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Though rooted in metalcore, and at times hardcore punk, </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">While She Sleeps</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> understand the importance of drawing from multiple genres and styles. They don't limit themselves, but at the same time know that they need to maintain a level of familiarity with fans at the risk of alienating them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The way they've slowly began incorporating more and more aspects of alt. rock, electronic rock, and post hardcore is subtle enough, yet you can feel, more importantly hear, the impact. These brief moments, or detail, break up the monotony that metalcore brings to a song. The endless chugs and breakdowns are undercut by synthetic effects, or an barely audible orchestra. Neither are meant to be the main show, and they do their job to add that little something extra to otherwise standard metal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The heavy riffs and drum beats that fuel the song keep the song grounded in metalcore. The "lighter" moments bring more post rock and hardcore punk. The lightning fast pace barely gives the listener time to relax. The harmonized vocals are similar to how <b>Saosin</b> mixes unclean and clean vocals. The dual vocals between Sykes (who to the relief of many is screaming and not singing) and Loz Taylor is spot on. They both employ a similar hardcore punk scream style as opposed to the traditionally deeper metal scream. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lyrically the band have been taking pages from fellow British metal kings <b>Architects</b> (whom <b>WSS</b> had ties to). Their lyrics have always been very issue oriented, in the sense that they deal with many current issues. In this particular song, the band centered this song around the recent "Brexit". </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The song's subject matter is mature, and the band take a different enough tact to it that it's not just another loud defiant song.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> To read more on the story behind "<i>Silence Speaks</i>" go to the following </span><a href="http://teamrock.com/feature/2017-02-23/the-story-behind-while-she-sleeps-new-song-silence-speaks" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">article</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> from Team Rock. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Summary - </span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Another solid song from an equally solid band. <b>While She Sleeps </b>continue to showcase their talents in the best light, giving listeners another incredible song that combines the best of everything. You get your basic metalcore, and then layered with post hardcore, electronic, and alt. rock. Plus the added benefit of Oli Sykes' vocals. That's always a definite way to get listeners, just ask <b>You Me at Six</b>. </span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-66623245594633401772017-02-28T20:00:00.000-05:002017-02-28T20:00:23.731-05:00All Time Low - "Dirty Laundry" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>All Time Low </b>made some big changes recently. Moving from <b>Hopeless Records </b>to<b> Fueled By Ramen</b>, and then seemingly ditching their pop punk for some smooth electronic rock. It's got fans excited, confused, and most of all anxious for their upcoming album "<b>Last Young Renegade</b>". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To preorder the album click this (link), and to get check dates for the band's headlining tour with <b>SWMRS, Night Riots, Waterparks </b>and<b> The Wrecks </b>go to their website. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A song that is deeply cemented in its label, that's the best way of describing this track. Like so many other labels, you can instantly tell this is a Fueled By Ramen track. Unfortunately, aside from Alex Gaskarth's vocals, there is nothing that characterizes this as an <b>All Time Low </b>song.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You have to give the band credit for being brave enough to try something so new and different from their usual pop punk. This new sound might work for them in the long run. But they're going to have to find a way to combine the old with the new because the current sound is a let down. It is a weak substitute for <b>PVRIS, The 1975, twenty one pilots, </b>and<b> Panic! at the Disco</b>. The fact that Blake Harnage, the man behind <b>PVRIS</b>' debut as well as former member of <b>VersaEmerge</b>, produced the record. It is catchy, however flawed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The synthetic drums that fuel the majority of the song, reduce Rian Dawson's usually powerful and energetic beats to slow and standardized 808 rhythms. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">He is allowed some free range in the second half of the song. In fact, t</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">he entire second half of the song showcases the band's real talents. Jack Barakat adds in a slick solo in and Zack Merrick throws in his bass. The tempo picks up and finally we're treated to something more along the lines of "<i>Kids in the Dark</i>", in terms of energy and alt. rock vibes</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. If only the entire song was written that way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The biggest sin isn't the electronics, or the synthetic drum beat. No it's the lyrics. They are so underdeveloped and generic, the only lyrics you'd see worse would be from a 7th grade garage band that covers <b>ATL</b>. The title line, "<i>Dirty Laundry</i>", is awkwardly sung in the opening of the chorus. The band could have picked any other, less obvious name, like Imperfection or something like that, for this song. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And they chose "<i>Dirty Laundry</i>". Which in the grand scheme of the song makes little sense. This is a classic relationship song, about a guy who loves a girl despite all her flaws. Pretty basic right? Well that the hell does dirty laundry have to do with the song? Little to nothing. It's as if the band wrote the song, and were then told to work the line "<i>Dirty laundry looks good on you</i>" into the chorus. Gaskarth sings about the girl's imperfections, and how she keeps her room a mess (hence, dirty laundry is piling in her room). She wears dirty clothes, and Gaskarth is cool with that because, hey, love. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band claim the song is about leaving the past in the past. Lyrics are highly subjective, so you decide what you think the song's real meaning is. Are they talking about forgoing the past mistakes and embracing change? Or is this just a relationship song about some dude who is learning to love the fact his girlfriend likes wearing dirty clothing? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Summary -</span></b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The shift in style isn't as big a red flag as the lyrics. Granted <b>All Time Low</b> have never been known for the lyrical skills as some other bands, more their catchy riffs and live performances. So what's left when you strip away the power chord riffs and energetic beats? All the band's flaws.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Rating - 6 to 6.5/10 </b></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-77995561089608007532017-02-22T18:14:00.002-05:002017-02-22T18:14:06.336-05:002017 Update<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="letter-spacing: -0.24px;">2017 has been a crazy year this far. The world around us is changing, and so are we! That's right, we're making some big changes at IBR.</span></div>
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Change #1 - Bimonthly featured bands. Your favorite bands will now be featured for 2 months<br />Change #2 - We are actively looking for new reviewers to join our ranks. If you are interested please message us via Facebook, or through our email (which is change #3!)<br />Change #3 - We've got a brand new email address that reflects out brand. inspire<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; font-family: inherit;">dbyreviews.IBR@gmail.com is our new email. But don't worry, we're forwarding our email from our previous account platypusreviews1486@gmail.com to our new address.<br />Change #4 - As of recent we haven't been posting much content, and that is due in part to our switch from Blogspot to our own website! Scheduling conflicts also plays a large part in lack of activity, but our main goal is getting ourselves a place of our own to share our content.</span></div>
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So please bare with us as we make these changes, and hope to see our new site in the coming months! And remember, if you would like to contribute content to our site, please message us and be patient.</div>
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-82394763904884114092017-01-27T20:00:00.000-05:002017-01-27T20:00:11.009-05:00Featured Post - Saosin<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFYnJ9-XZE-BUJPM2JEpGtD9uzK-C3opglo2hz_PoOP6HaL8IrZ44uMvOHdpn9OQmsLuZOEV0FrQtDXhIRJJQ5szpDmwVSlTdbc03McR9B1LnR00jlOP9f4Ww9b9iahWR1CFs_qZOJHxg/s1600/_saosin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFYnJ9-XZE-BUJPM2JEpGtD9uzK-C3opglo2hz_PoOP6HaL8IrZ44uMvOHdpn9OQmsLuZOEV0FrQtDXhIRJJQ5szpDmwVSlTdbc03McR9B1LnR00jlOP9f4Ww9b9iahWR1CFs_qZOJHxg/s320/_saosin.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Unfamiliar with this band? Shame on you. If you're a fan of early 00s emo, <b>The Used</b>, or just looking for something to jam out to, then you should listen to this band. <b>Saosin</b> have a lengthy legacy, that more than suits them given their accomplishments. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To buy their most recent album, "Along The Shadow", on iTunes click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/along-shadow-deluxe-edition/id1090735080">link</a>). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The band that came back from the brink, <b>Saosin's</b> 3rd album dropped last year to fan and critical acclaim. It was what everyone had been waiting for for nearly 13 years. Original vocalist Anthony Green returned to helm the lyrics and lend his masterful voice, and then the band just did what they've always done best. Writing superb songs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The thing that really sets <b>Saosin</b> apart from other bands is that they're not young. They're not novices. Much like<b> Pierce the Veil</b>, they've been doing this for well over 10 years. They've honed their craft, and everything that has been released in recent years has been perfect. Their experience shows in their work, and their performances. It's a pleasure to watch Anthony Green on stage. In a similar fashion to Trenton Woodley, whose voice is equally smooth and filled with angst, there's just something about him that captures our attention. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Their sound is comparable to <b>Hands Like Houses, I the Mighty, </b>and post "<b>Sempiternal" Bring Me The Horizon</b>. Dancing the line between alt. rock and post hardcore, it's post hardcore in easy to digest capsules. Very accessible for newcomers, but also very familiar. As said before, this band fits comfortably with the other "emo" bands of the 00s that shaped the sound. <b>Hawthorne Heights, Silverstein</b>, and the aforementioned <b>The Used</b> are <b>Saosin's </b>equals in that sense. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Like <b>Hands Like Houses,</b> the band balance their emphasis on rhythm and melody. Beau Burchell writes fast guitar riffs, while Chris Sorenson and Alex Rodriguez drive the beat. One of the band's best riffs come from "<i>Voices</i>", off their self titled debut. It's a frantic melody that contrasts the smooth and calm vocals from ex-vocalist Cove Reber. It has a very mid-00s <b>Paramore</b> vibe. In fact much of the band's work off their debut is comparable to <b>Paramore</b>. A huge change from the more hardcore oriented music off their much loved EP "<i><b>Translating the Name</b></i>". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Green and Reber's vocal techniques are similar but ultimately Green is the superior singer. If only because he's had more opportunities to practice and stretch his range. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Even in his early years as a vocalist, Green's voice was more melodic and much lighter in comparison to Reber's grittier, alt. rock oriented voice. </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> Green not only fronts <b>Saosin</b>, but also <b>Circa Survive</b>. And in addition, Green launched a solo career and then joined started numerous side projects, including <b>The Sound of Animals Fighting</b>, and <b>High and Driving</b>. He's lent his voice to emo, pop punk, indie rock, pop, and progressive rock. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Because of this versatility</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">, one has to give Green higher marks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Green's return to the band also saw the return of unclean vocals to the band's music, and in term a return to a heavier sound. Again, like</span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Hands Like Houses</b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">, </span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Saosin</b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> don't rely on breakdowns as much as other post hardcore contemporaries do. Instead they craft rhythmic guitar riffs that imitate breakdowns. The end product is just as pleasing to the ear, but are also far more interesting to listen to. Take the breakdown in "Drinking From the Fountain". The riff relies on bends and palm muting as much as your average breakdown. But isn't focused on open string chugs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Recommended tracks -</b> "<i>Seven Years", "On My Own", "Voices", "Is This Real?", "Fireflies", "The Silver String", "Racing Toward A Red Light", "Drinking From the Fountain" </i>and<i> "The Secret Meaning of Freedom</i>". </span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-22268502213773633582017-01-22T20:00:00.000-05:002017-03-01T17:55:42.135-05:00As It Is - "okay." Album Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguW3qqQZqbTbdpaQcfB_QE0Q_k3Qn4x0XJ0A5afI17g8Q-zRgF5IrbDadElhn7qwqZvK6Q7bLsbm83wOovwtc5HS7NogJrZh-xQoHF3Ya68panYfMrw0WCFhKDOWNx59l3hwBWKEdMQs0/s1600/IMG_135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguW3qqQZqbTbdpaQcfB_QE0Q_k3Qn4x0XJ0A5afI17g8Q-zRgF5IrbDadElhn7qwqZvK6Q7bLsbm83wOovwtc5HS7NogJrZh-xQoHF3Ya68panYfMrw0WCFhKDOWNx59l3hwBWKEdMQs0/s200/IMG_135.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Though this has to be one of the weirdest album covers we've seen, don't judge an album by the seemingly Normal Rockwell inspired cover. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A year and a half after their debut, <b>As It Is</b> are back on the scene with their sophomore effort, "<b><i>okay.</i></b>". A more mature outing for this young band, that still holds all the charm of their debut. It's "okay" and more. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To buy "<i><b>okay</b></i>." on iTunes please click the following (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/okay./id1162502673">link</a>).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A massive improvement on 2015's debut, "<i><b>Never Happy Ever After</b></i>", this is an example of a band who read the reviews, listened to the constructive critiques and then did something to make themselves better. Production was ramped up, and Ben Langford was given more moments to show off his singing chops. At the same time, Patty Walters' voice loses some of that "whiney" tone that made much of the band's debut unbearable. And one has to commend him on how he's matured into one of the strongest pop punk frontmen. If you can honestly say you've been to one of As It Is' concerts, and didn't get the urge to jump and sing along then you should make sure you don't have a brain tumor. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>The album's opening song, and lead single "<i>Pretty Little Distance</i>", is a</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> perfect example of the bands more mature edge. The chorus is still bouncy and fun, but the verses are more restrained. Much like a <b>New Found Glory</b> track, or <b>All Time Low </b>during their "Nothing Personal" era. A palm muted riff coupled with those ever popular "<i>Whoas</i>" makes this a must listen track. It's an earworm. Dual vocals from Patty Walters and Ben in the bridge gives it that c</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">lassic pop punk feel. The "cute" guitar solo pushes the song to the next level. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The first half of the album still follows the pop punk blueprint. Bright intro, quiet verses, explosive chorus, quiet bridge, and "one last hoorah" final chorus. But as said before, it's the execution that counts. <b>As It Is</b> give us a polished, organized effort. Sometimes songs can get muddled, and repetitive, "<i>Okay" </i>and<i> "Hey Rachel</i>" feel like extensions of each other. But then the second half showcases the band's darker side. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The album is filled with surprises like the slower, darker "<i>Curtains Close</i>" and the more punk oriented, but equally dark "<i>No Way Out</i>". There's enough variety to keep you interested, but enough familiarity to keep the most die-hard pop punk fans coming back for more. Bass guitarist Alistair Testo is given the reins for the bulk of the verses of the following songs: "<i>No Way Out", "Soap" </i>and<i> "Austen</i>". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band dive into a heavy sound for "<i>No Way Out</i>" and "<i>Soap</i>". The latter is more rhythmic with the bass driving much of the verses. It's different from previous material, and shows how the band have branched out. But the former of the two is the one you should listen to. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">No Way Out</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">" is definitely</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> a standout for the otherwise strictly pop punk album. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The harder edge, and darker tone is a route the band should pursue in the future. The deep bass line during the bridge, and the almost unclean vocals make this an extremely pleasant surprise. It could have gone terribly wrong, but the band pulled it off. Ben is again given more chances to provide his grittier vocals to the mix, and his voice suits both songs perfectly. A</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">nd if you're not a fan of the heavier songs, don't worry. "<i>Until I Return</i>" brings the album back into familiar pop punk territory. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><u>Summary</u> -</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Equal parts of easy listen, and a maturer route on their brand of pop punk. They band still have a lot of growing to do, but they're young and they can get away with this sort of "cute, thirteen year old girl-bedroom music" right now. Bottom line, it's all just a good time. And right now, it's exactly what we need. Recommended for fans of <b>The All American Rejects, State Champs </b>and<b> All Time Low</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Recommended Tracks </u>-</span></b> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>"Pretty Little Distance", "No Way Out", "Until I Return" </i>and<i> "Still Remembering</i>" </span> </span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-18235649557436087392017-01-12T20:00:00.000-05:002017-01-14T11:31:00.604-05:00You Me at Six - "Night People" Album Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBvbt6Rl9z7Asrl8jLSstmTvDJMk9pDCdLJZALI_G2vvkhQSstGsUfo_G4nbcd4CBmaxVghN25hPVY6YVQ0PWXst3hdw0-G40ceLe2mqlc_yoVYH_Lv29SP0Zclo7L7zWrvvGg9nQrZw/s1600/100000x100000-999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBvbt6Rl9z7Asrl8jLSstmTvDJMk9pDCdLJZALI_G2vvkhQSstGsUfo_G4nbcd4CBmaxVghN25hPVY6YVQ0PWXst3hdw0-G40ceLe2mqlc_yoVYH_Lv29SP0Zclo7L7zWrvvGg9nQrZw/s200/100000x100000-999.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The title track will have you thinking this album is going to be dirty, gritty, and full of soul. The album instead delivers some surprisingly mellowed out tracks. <b>You Me at Six </b>shift gears for this record, trying to shake things up and keep fans interested. Let's see how well they did...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To purchase the album on iTunes please click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/night-people/id1144143660">link</a>).</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's obvious at this point<b> You Me at Six</b> aren't interested in going back to the iconic sound they crafted for their debut "<i><b>Take Off Your Colours</b></i>". Now firmly routed in modern Brit-pop rock, the band are writing mainstream worthy hit after hit. "<i><b>Night People</b></i>" shows how far they've come since the days of their angsty pop punk, alt. rock. <b>YMAS </b>have become a more mature pop rock outlet. The UK's answer to<b> Fall Out Boy</b> in many ways. But like <b>Fall Out Boy</b>, <b>YMAS</b> have lost what made them unique and lovable in the first place. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Overtime, this group have crafted a signature alt. rock, pop stadium sound that is instantly recognizable. It fills concert venues, and resonates with each listener. But on this record, the band deviate from their formula and try something new. And unfortunately it doesn't work. This entire record has a very 70s, 80s vibe that doesn't suit this Brit-rock band. This style is more suited to a Danny Worsnop side project or solo album. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">All these lyrical themes are so tried and tired, but could have been made special. Unfortunately the band doesn't put any sort of interesting spin to make them standout in the crowd. But then again, that could be a to describe the band's career. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"</span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Make Your Move</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">" relies on frontman Josh Franceschi doing a bad Kurt Cobain impression where he gargles into the microphone during much of the chorus and bridge. A little too much crunch on the guitar, and some bizarre production choices kill what could have been show stealing tracks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lyrically the album is weak, producing some of the most uninteresting lines we've heard. From "<i>Can't Hold Back</i>", where Franceschi whines about not wanting to, and not being able to hold back, to "<i>Swear</i>" where Franceschi <i>swears </i>he won't do this or do that, to "<i>Spell It Out</i>" which the most stereotypically "emo" song from the band to date. That particular track is little more than a</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> slow, methodic song where Franceschi croons about being sad and struggling to win a fight. The guitar riff that comes in at the end comes in all too late to save this track. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"<i>Heavy Soul</i>" doesn't seem like a <b>YMAS</b> song at all. Perhaps it's the influence of Tennessee, which is where the band recorded the album, but this feels like something that should have come out of an aspiring country rock band. It's devoid of energy and Franceschi's usually edge. Instead of pursuing that bigger, bolder arena style rock they've taken their music into the bars of Nashville. Seriously, this track is like something ripped straight from a 70s radio station, and not in a good way.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The one solid standout of the record is "<i>Brand New</i>", which lives up to its name. A more indie oriented rock song that is executed flawlessly. From Franceschi's sweet vocals, to the anthemic chorus and driving guitar. The mellower verses have a steady drum and bass backing, and gentle lead guitars. A winning track, appropriate for a montage in an indie movie. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> - </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You know how "<i><b>The Amazing Spider Man 2</b></i>" had you thinking that the Rhino was going to be a much more important villain, and not some ten minute cameo from Paul Giamatti? And then you find out this movie made all the same mistakes the previous franchise made (too many villains). "<i><b>Night People</b></i>" is the musical equivalent. A highly misleading preview, when in reality this record is a weak attempt at hard rock meets <b>You Me at Six</b> style pop-rock. The band dropped the ball on this one, and it's sad because every previous record has shown the band had huge crossover potential like the aforementioned<b> Fall Out Boy</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Tracks to listen to</u> - </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The title track is by far the best, but also listen to "Swear" and "Brand New". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Rating</u> - 6/10</b></span></span></div>
cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-16986096925083402352017-01-08T20:00:00.000-05:002017-01-08T20:00:08.564-05:00Chasing Safety - "Nomad" Album Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvM3LJbwlQdI3ze1ZsieSMeeNp4Wf5RE6U4ZvOf2_-dGqZGDrSKMLE83e4psVgN17LWJKWcCKRxWmQT5cGGPmcmp5sz3tcadhvuP0UF4Zomjm_EVN_4ef2Y2P4tgcVmlFbaHbcJFJQSc/s1600/kanVMsrPZ8o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvM3LJbwlQdI3ze1ZsieSMeeNp4Wf5RE6U4ZvOf2_-dGqZGDrSKMLE83e4psVgN17LWJKWcCKRxWmQT5cGGPmcmp5sz3tcadhvuP0UF4Zomjm_EVN_4ef2Y2P4tgcVmlFbaHbcJFJQSc/s200/kanVMsrPZ8o.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Upping the ante, <b>Chasing Safety</b> move from their symphonic, gothic metalcore to a more accessible hardcore sound that will have you banging your head in no time. Is the shift for the better, and what does this mean the band's future? Hopefully good things. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To pick up the album on iTunes click the following (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/nomad/id1165327567">link</a>).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The crunchy yet intense breakdowns, the dual vocals, electronics/synths and the band's powerhouse choruses are hallmarks of their sound. But for their second outing,<b> Chasing Safety</b> decide to do something a little different. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band make the bold decision to shift from electronic, theatric metalcore to something more attuned to the style of metalcore alumni like </span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Memphis May Fire </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">and</span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> A Skylit Drive</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. Songs are strongly influenced by hard rock and classic metal, and there is little to no orchestration present. The shift may surprise fans, but the end result is just as pleasing to the ear as anything the band have put forth before.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Opening track, and the first single released, "<i>Brand New Prison</i>" starts the album off with a powerful hard rock, metal driven riff and raspy unclean vocals from Johnny Galivan. The anthemic and melodic chorus is superb. This is also one of the first tracks we can hear Kenny Davis' voice without those underlying effects. Ditching the autotune and such was a move for the better. His voice is comparable to that of Matthew Nicholas of <b>Get Scared </b>or <span style="background-color: white; color: #252525;">London Snetsinger</span>. His melodic voice mixes well with Galivan's, balancing the raspy and growled style Galivan employs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The only track that is still in familiar territory for fans who have been around since the beginning is "<i>Erase Me</i>". That being said, electronics only have a pronounced presence during the intro and then in the background of the chorus. It's got a very <b>Issues</b>-meets <b>Sleeping with Sirens-</b>meets <b>Of Mice and Men </b>vibe going. If we didn't know better, we'd say this was another "Risecore" band. But low and behold, <b>Chasing Safety</b> are signed to Outerloop, an imprint of Fearless Records. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The title track, only 1:30 in length, is another strongly electronic track, backed by a powerful drum beat. It would have been better off as the opening track rather than used to break up the album. It builds and builds, and transitions perfectly into "<i>Long for More</i>". But both tracks should have opened the record, rather than be placed in the middle. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The best album to compare "<i><b>Nomad</b></i>" to would be "<i><b>Incomplete Me</b></i>", the final album released by <b>For All Those Sleeping</b>. Both see typically electronic metalcore groups shifting toward a more accessible post hardcore sound that puts a greater emphasis on clean vocals. The difference between the two, <b>Chasing Safety </b>seem far more comfortable with the shift than <b>FATS</b> were. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This seems like the natural progression of their sound, and they do maintain a few aspects of their original style. The glossy production, their anthemic choruses and the balance between heavy/light instrumentals. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> - </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Ultimately this album shows the band are still finding their niche, but have made strong headway. They're clearing aiming for a more cut and dry post hardcore sound, rather than continue with their glitchy electronic metalcore that often bordered on <b>I See Stars</b> meets <b>We Came as Romans</b>. A great album to start the year off with, if you need a reason to listen to this album do it because it simply sounds great. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Tracks to listen to</u> -</span></b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"<i>Brand New Prison</i>", "<i>This is Hell</i>", "<i>Long for More</i>", and "<i>World We Know</i>" </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Rating</u> - 7.5/10 </b></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-77465487525073435592017-01-01T20:00:00.000-05:002017-01-01T22:49:12.340-05:00Most Disappointing Albums of 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Some really are the worst, while others were just disappointments. Here, we look back at the albums that failed to impress, made us cringe, or were just plain bad. Keep in mind, we can only listen to so many albums, and take each into consideration. So if you think we missed something, comment and let us know. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To see our "<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/12/top-10-albums-of-2016.html">Top 10 Albums of 2016</a>" or "<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/12/quick-picks-best-songs-of-2016.html">Top 10 Songs of 2016</a>" click the respective links.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Also, we note that we shy away from "mainstream" acts, so don't expect to see acts like</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b> Meghan Trainor, </b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Charlie Puth </b>(no matter how tempting it was to include his debut on this list), or </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>OneRepublic</b> here. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">9. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Cold World - Of Mice and Men (6.5 to 7/10) </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This album lands on the fence for many listeners. While we can praise the band for their tighter, more polished metal sound, we can't help but feel a little let down. After "<i><b>Restoring Force</b></i>" we were expecting some serious jams, and a return to their grittier harsher metal from "<i><b>The Flood</b></i>". Instead listeners find themselves falling into a more nu metal, modern metal oriented <b>OM&M</b>. The album has its moments of genius, but when they fall they fall flat on their face. <b>Of Mice and Men</b> have definitely earned their place at the top of the metal world, but they are far from perfect. Austin Carlile's lyrics can't hold up against poor instrumentals. The entire mid section of the album is filler, with tracks so coated in cheese it's embarrassing to even put one's name to them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>8. "I like it when you sleep..." - The 1975 (7/10)</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8A_NhJwP8FrC5jbyJlfbOx66FHA1hlf28dg9Ilfx9rm99Bx0t_sOyvHOVvGU6rk__1lMSGX5Q8TNe6GdHkuQs8hPFRgpa7CQxH2G7-PvachZX0lqE-EbLkEw0D5ZFbTe4rdM0mkhcbK8/s1600/1000the1975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8A_NhJwP8FrC5jbyJlfbOx66FHA1hlf28dg9Ilfx9rm99Bx0t_sOyvHOVvGU6rk__1lMSGX5Q8TNe6GdHkuQs8hPFRgpa7CQxH2G7-PvachZX0lqE-EbLkEw0D5ZFbTe4rdM0mkhcbK8/s200/1000the1975.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Their debut was indie rock meets electronic meets new wave. Their follow up was a mess. All over the map, with songs that felt so disconnected from the rest of the album we weren't sure what was going on. The few songs that were cohesive and put together rocked our world. The others fell short of expectation to say the least. We get Matty Healy is trying to play the role of tortured poet who has more vices than virtues. But is he overplaying said role? A little. His ability to write isn't being questioned. The band's decision making is. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /><b>7. </b></span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">"This Could Be Heartbreak" - The Amity Affliction (7.5/10)</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">More disappointing than straight bad, The Amity Affliction have everything going for them. Except any idea of what to do next. Their sound has progressed naturally, going from modern metalcore to a more melodic style of metal. And now, it seems their evolution has stopped. Doing the same thing they've been doing for almost 5 years, <b>TAA</b> don't build on the foundation they've laid. There are a few moments when you think, "oh, maybe this will be good". Then you hear tracks like "<i>Tearing Me Apart</i>" and "<i>Blood in My Mouth</i>" and realize <b>TAA</b> are taking steps backwards instead of forwards. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">6. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Chaos" - Attila (7/10)</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykjyyCiwL3xWs5lLI9vhJyFxUbByUKhkmVyQfXyikeuRkSEOWZ7I7iE0GFEFVataEicGxR_9KWfUKN0Qj696-rabDtE7L1-bIfQ0dVYi6Kzx2jC9jNEQIoKaKqsyQUzo6b4JXlYED2kE/s1600/ATTC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykjyyCiwL3xWs5lLI9vhJyFxUbByUKhkmVyQfXyikeuRkSEOWZ7I7iE0GFEFVataEicGxR_9KWfUKN0Qj696-rabDtE7L1-bIfQ0dVYi6Kzx2jC9jNEQIoKaKqsyQUzo6b4JXlYED2kE/s200/ATTC.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Depending on your opinion, this band are either batshit insane, or brilliant. Never far from controversy, with frontman Chris "Fronz" Fronzak's sometimes unbearable personality, <b>Attila's</b> 2016 album was a pleasant surprise for most. It wasn't as terrible as many expected, but it's still got that air of arrogance that instantly turns a fair amount of people off. Once you get past that, if you can get past that, the songs are actually stomach-able. The heavy drum beats and deeply chugged riffs are catnip for any metal fan. While Fronz alternates between rapping and screaming, the energy in this album is 9/10. At the end of the day, this album is for some people, and not for others. If you like it, you like it. If you don't, that's ok too. Just don't get in the way of Attila fans, you'll be eaten alive. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>5. "California" - blink-182 (6.5 to 7/10)</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8cusi1dioTtNLBqsEqyw93wyKDgpmNvY0U6oegol3esUC4fbjv7xZofHc9c5sAZQl_8bzdddrHyoMNFw51Qv3bZOLtnuLuD5trZNOxpEH-M-umcLd4nxS20kSsgPig1Mc2k8AIwnauo/s1600/1500blink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8cusi1dioTtNLBqsEqyw93wyKDgpmNvY0U6oegol3esUC4fbjv7xZofHc9c5sAZQl_8bzdddrHyoMNFw51Qv3bZOLtnuLuD5trZNOxpEH-M-umcLd4nxS20kSsgPig1Mc2k8AIwnauo/s200/1500blink.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The comeback album that no one really needed. While there are a myriad of tracks that will bring you back to middle school, this album is essentially pop punk filler. Newcomers on the field like <b>Neck Deep, State Champs</b>, and <b>ROAM</b> have so much more to offer than the veterans. Matt Skiba does his best to try and bring some fresh ideas to the stale band, and we give him credit for that. But the end product is seemingly r</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">egurgitated from the 90s. An album full of songs about hooking up with girls, partying and streaking, sung by men in their 40s with kids (at least in Mark Hoppus' case) is NOT a recipe for success.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> In the end, the album is a guilty pleasure. It's not something you should be particularly proud to say you listen to, but it has its moments. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>4. </b></span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Limitless - Tonight Alive (6 to 6.5/10)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHVfK1nd8gRTO30PpuG1-T2bOuqrQjIVA0SD65EsEIRGsMamJx_OoHaC5J6XKKfGf4RGM-IjaFgSwsvbAyHKYkQQ8FqShyphenhyphentgjJ1X44brgzGtoVqPK_-PdkKzGC1rZJCwL6qMmkizrgeg/s1600/gallery_7_2_60235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHVfK1nd8gRTO30PpuG1-T2bOuqrQjIVA0SD65EsEIRGsMamJx_OoHaC5J6XKKfGf4RGM-IjaFgSwsvbAyHKYkQQ8FqShyphenhyphentgjJ1X44brgzGtoVqPK_-PdkKzGC1rZJCwL6qMmkizrgeg/s200/gallery_7_2_60235.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One of the biggest disappointments of the year, <b>Tonight Alive </b>simply dropped the ball on this album. This is more a let-down than a terrible album. After reaching new heights with a darker, angst ridden sound for their sophomore effort, <b>Tonight Alive</b> then made the bold decision to forego all that progress in favor of something far more experimental and mainstream. Working with David Bendeth, the man behind <b>We Came as Roman's</b> self titled trainwreck, the band tried to make unneccessary electronics, weird lyrics, and stagnant instruments work to their favor. It didn't. There are a smattering of standout tracks, but overall this is one forgettable record. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>3. </b></span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">"This Is What The Truth Feels Like" - Gwen Stefani (6 to 6.5/10)</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The exception to our "mainstream" act rule, the frontwoman of <b>No Doubt </b>has proven that her talents lie in ska, not in pop. This album is, without a doubt, one of the worst attempts at a comeback in ages. The skills are there, no one is saying Stefani can't write good music. Over the years she has shown us that she is more than a capable writer and lyricist. Sadly, it seems Stefani has become another victim of mainstream envy. Wanting to breakthrough into the pop charts, she's chosen to waste her talent trying to write cheesy pop song after cheesy pop song. And the final result is ultimately boring and uninspired. Butthurt? Well, that's what the truth feels like.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">2. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Night Sports" - 3oh!3</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbBFRel7AmYidxF745jd3bJbq95Ijem0Y8FiqPkXhZPv4pPYnEOslOp0HdQQHoVN8r_qu3ExTUdoFAZ0eZaCDHCmYXd27-w-l5G9dvkLiLkwnDfhzjxvhqsxCBXi8WZ4yuWxKUTxc1bA/s1600/3OH3-NIGHT-SPORTS-2016-2480x2480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbBFRel7AmYidxF745jd3bJbq95Ijem0Y8FiqPkXhZPv4pPYnEOslOp0HdQQHoVN8r_qu3ExTUdoFAZ0eZaCDHCmYXd27-w-l5G9dvkLiLkwnDfhzjxvhqsxCBXi8WZ4yuWxKUTxc1bA/s200/3OH3-NIGHT-SPORTS-2016-2480x2480.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band should have quit while they were ahead. Cashed in one their singles "<i>Don't Trust Me</i>", and "<i>My First Kiss</i>" and went home. But no, this electronic duo decided the world needed to hear another album. Electronic, synthetic nonsense that serves as little more than musical weed. It's good, but you'll be brain dead in no time if you have too much. <b>3oh!3</b> have never been a great band, more like a tolerable one. And as they cling to what little fame they have left, they're attempts at another chart topper become more and more sad. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>1. "<i>Train Does Led Zeppelin</i>" - Train (🤢 /10) </b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixJw0d898Auo8QfjNGeDFcyP0OC7Il1n8B907XGl8sVciurgN9BJcm2D0Q_3TtrrBQF-jvc6pM3RQ18Rhjq-WxCefxr1rTt7qnPfm192wUs96-t6aEAH0N5lEbIphUtwBc6RzOmXJOapw/s1600/5b58edde35535a4ea84e818dd4d55a37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixJw0d898Auo8QfjNGeDFcyP0OC7Il1n8B907XGl8sVciurgN9BJcm2D0Q_3TtrrBQF-jvc6pM3RQ18Rhjq-WxCefxr1rTt7qnPfm192wUs96-t6aEAH0N5lEbIphUtwBc6RzOmXJOapw/s200/5b58edde35535a4ea84e818dd4d55a37.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you can't tell, that's a puke face emoji up there in place of an actual rating. Oh, sweet, Jesus, no one could have predicted this as <b>Train's</b> next musical endeavor. But here it is, a cover album of <b>Led Zeppelin's</b> greatest hits by the guys who wrote "<i>Drive By" </i>and<i> "Drops of Jupiter</i>". Seriously, don't listen to this. The title alone should tell you nothing good can come from listening to any track from this record. What possessed the band to record this, let alone who the ever-loving-crap said, "<i>You know we should do an entire <b>Led Zeppelin</b> cover album</i>", God knows what happened that day. Is this punishment of some sort? </span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-32855593145434413652016-12-31T22:00:00.000-05:002017-01-07T00:51:38.193-05:00Quick Picks: Best Songs of 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Y0sJTHJyYCj5RaX_CUaq34EWkIxIJg038TepN377XWSqPXZPJDVOSag3bFGgRbQxHN1wUXCQjts3KM3xFfQLRQp68n3v5-dVy6P-A1HxBCV3ySr59dfMoG1pLTh9Z2xfPYQII9nII_o/s1600/BeFunky+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Y0sJTHJyYCj5RaX_CUaq34EWkIxIJg038TepN377XWSqPXZPJDVOSag3bFGgRbQxHN1wUXCQjts3KM3xFfQLRQp68n3v5-dVy6P-A1HxBCV3ySr59dfMoG1pLTh9Z2xfPYQII9nII_o/s200/BeFunky+Collage.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The best songs, from some of the best artists, from some of the best albums. Please keep in mind, we can only listen to so many songs before our heads explode. We also shy away from "mainstream" songs, so don't expect to see things from <b>Beyonce </b>or the like. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you think we missed a song, be sure to check our honorable mentions. Leave a commend to tell us what songs you loved the most this year. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To see our other Top 10s of 2016 click this (<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/p/annual-top-10s.html">link</a>). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>7.</b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">"<i><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/05/pierce-veil-circles-single-review.html">Circles</a></i>" - Pierce the Veil (8 to 8.5/10)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCv8XJyVfu_qwoB5tUx7drbUejHcSEIYXKPkPR4HxDEB1LJRnI1t791ihVhK9gwShLS8x11ukqZLaU0w9tcF4ZzSkjuX1HokkjYZp5Dc88ezEn29tj2IiQf72mTBRYGBY0uNaFgIjvgg/s1600/600ptv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCv8XJyVfu_qwoB5tUx7drbUejHcSEIYXKPkPR4HxDEB1LJRnI1t791ihVhK9gwShLS8x11ukqZLaU0w9tcF4ZzSkjuX1HokkjYZp5Dc88ezEn29tj2IiQf72mTBRYGBY0uNaFgIjvgg/s1600/600ptv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCv8XJyVfu_qwoB5tUx7drbUejHcSEIYXKPkPR4HxDEB1LJRnI1t791ihVhK9gwShLS8x11ukqZLaU0w9tcF4ZzSkjuX1HokkjYZp5Dc88ezEn29tj2IiQf72mTBRYGBY0uNaFgIjvgg/s200/600ptv2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One of the songs that resulted in the delayed release of this album, the wait was worth it. Released as the third single off this triumphant album, "Circles" tells the story of two lost lovers searching for the other. Inspired partly by the November 2015 attacks in Paris, France, which took the lives of 130 innocent lives, we're glad the band took the extra time to write this song. Aside from the age old love story the song tells, the song is also notable for its slower and much more accessible tone. A sequel to "Bulletproof Love" or "Hold on Till May" in many senses, "Circles" is a catchy pop punk, emo track that instantly grabs your attention. From the mellow opening, to the bouncy chorus. This song is a win-win for everyone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /><b>6. </b></span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">"<i><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/01/hands-like-houses-colourblind-single.html">Colourblind</a></i>" - Hands Like Houses (8.5 to 9/10)</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A standout from the album, and the band's overall repertoire, "<i>Colourblind</i>" shows how intelligent <b>Hands Like Houses </b>are. Their decision making skills are spot on. This is one band who know when to use something, how to use it, and when enough is enough. Starting the song with some calm, almost folksy drums, <b>HLH </b>steadily bring things up to a crescendo. The chorus fits in with existing songs "<i>This Ain't No Place for Animals</i>" and "<i>Antarctica</i>" perfectly with its bright piano melodies, grand production and the slightly unclean vocals from Trenton Woodley. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>5.</b> </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">"<i><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/06/twenty-ne-pilts-heathens-single-review.html">Heathens</a></i>" - twenty one pilots (8.5 to 9/10)</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b><br /></b></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiECTGX16y1utTWFXyQ0LZT0GLjom1uoRtsF67NMY-xiv4GraiNZLMDp-Ao5pRZcgKdPUPrRQ5MwX_3ABJ1Xbx13WlwfL7lHCi-Hx7dEHGjT2woUOmKaWHOh_bFt8ZW9CiYTHVnIJdleQo/s1600/25qrawfsfzjivolk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiECTGX16y1utTWFXyQ0LZT0GLjom1uoRtsF67NMY-xiv4GraiNZLMDp-Ao5pRZcgKdPUPrRQ5MwX_3ABJ1Xbx13WlwfL7lHCi-Hx7dEHGjT2woUOmKaWHOh_bFt8ZW9CiYTHVnIJdleQo/s200/25qrawfsfzjivolk.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The duo that can't be stopped,<b> twenty one pilots</b> proved they're more than one-hit wonders. With "<i>Heathens</i>" they elevate themselves to the next level of stardom, and rightly so. The simple message of this track is only outdone by the delivery. Shifting from his "<i><b>Blurryface</b></i>" delivery of lyrics, Tyler Joseph goes back to a more "<i><b>Vessels</b></i>" approach of half singing, half rapping. This electronic rock number punctuates everything that's right about top. The lyrics about misfits and the misunderstood, Joseph's twinkling piano line, and Josh Dun's ever steady drum beats which ground the songs. This song is equal parts "eerie" and melody. "<i>Heathens</i>" finds a home with the likes of "<i>Fairly Local</i>" and "<i>Hometown</i>". </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">4. </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">"<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/04/letlive-good-mourning-america-single.html"><i>Good Mourning America</i></a>" - letlive. (8.5 to 9/10)</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KAVHvMkkwMfmsNjCd_5fHP51Q7abYfPu0lDoXemyWNjVxskaYBJ3uPxAuqgQIx1IFEy85ZIxGBkIZo5X20mbkTzCbUVlDStnRvSO87wJI_v9do404kAAZJw7kLwcrXoyVC-1vVc8G-k/s1600/letlive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KAVHvMkkwMfmsNjCd_5fHP51Q7abYfPu0lDoXemyWNjVxskaYBJ3uPxAuqgQIx1IFEy85ZIxGBkIZo5X20mbkTzCbUVlDStnRvSO87wJI_v9do404kAAZJw7kLwcrXoyVC-1vVc8G-k/s1600/letlive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KAVHvMkkwMfmsNjCd_5fHP51Q7abYfPu0lDoXemyWNjVxskaYBJ3uPxAuqgQIx1IFEy85ZIxGBkIZo5X20mbkTzCbUVlDStnRvSO87wJI_v9do404kAAZJw7kLwcrXoyVC-1vVc8G-k/s200/letlive.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Another politically charged call to arms, this song perfectly sums up this year. Jason Butler tackles subjects that most wouldn't dare touch. Police corruption, death, loss, and discrimination, just in one song that touches the tip of the iceberg. From the djent style guitar riff to the half-rapped verses, the song triumphs where other bands might have failed. Not just conveying an important message, but providing a great listen for fans of hardcore music. The crisp production is undercut with grittier moments, that punctuate certain lines. <i>"Good Mourning America</i>" lacks the certain frenetic charm previous tracks have had, but the second half of this song more than makes up for that lack of energy. The funk and soul infused into the song is unparalleled. Heavy enough for fans of the band's hardcore punk oriented music, but on a level that is far superior to other acts in the field. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">3. </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">"<i><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/01/speed-reads-enter-shikari-bury-tomorrow.html">Redshift</a></i>" - Enter Shikari (9/10)</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57vnXPTcvYTluU6gCxlhzaFLZ24Md75cuAmc8HtL7um0J4DSzIeQGsFXuzvYtjf5hdSwsTN2zBIyft8SutuI0CHwwLlr4Pj3y2aF3tNSNwNdmx8GmGILnQUrHOCZ8HZkpxKZNy7exgac/s1600/enter-shikari-redshift-6007231-1452141165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57vnXPTcvYTluU6gCxlhzaFLZ24Md75cuAmc8HtL7um0J4DSzIeQGsFXuzvYtjf5hdSwsTN2zBIyft8SutuI0CHwwLlr4Pj3y2aF3tNSNwNdmx8GmGILnQUrHOCZ8HZkpxKZNy7exgac/s200/enter-shikari-redshift-6007231-1452141165.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Taking a page from fellow Brit-rockers <b>Muse</b>, Enter Shikari try their hand at "space-rock". One of the most complex songs in terms of lyrical content, this isn't for the casual listeners. A combination of the band's signature punk aesthetic and some more atmospheric space/prog. rock. Rou Reynolds shows his skills as a writer, and the song plunges into some fairly complex subject matter. Not just discussing themes about the universe's creation, but Reynolds also tackles things like our place in the cosmos, life after death, and the limit of our minds. A lot to swallow? Ya it is, but you'll hardly notice as you listen to this song. It's a trip, but in a good way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">2. </span></b><b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/09/too-close-to-touch-havent-been-myself.html">Eiley</a>" - Too Close To Touch (9/10)</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">This band should be on everyone's radar. Perhaps America's answer to Hands Like Houses, Too Close To Touch take things to the next level with the final song from their spectacular sophomore effort, "<i>Haven't Been Myself</i>". Frontman Keaton Pierce writes about the loss of his three year old sister throughout the album, but on this final song, he really lets it all out. The raw emotion gives you chills, and the bridge before the last chorus is something that will have you in tears. Everything the album's been building up to climaxes here, and overflows. Pierce is allowed to show just how powerful his voice can be, clean and unclean vocals combined. There's really no other way to describe or praise this song. You just have to experience it for yourself. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcNNu8Ece9OUVAoGJSChmihk9HlOw4bnAz2YTFEFBPXLwqTOCFRbhe6jM1IPE6jgmoXTf5Tr_lxGQnbqU2LZy14yDnUi4dE8kBzf8BNaMf_ijBEv-mC1WzmXRqjLgueetNNntYIuPgvI/s1600/943961_10154023303729433_54535406404213483_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcNNu8Ece9OUVAoGJSChmihk9HlOw4bnAz2YTFEFBPXLwqTOCFRbhe6jM1IPE6jgmoXTf5Tr_lxGQnbqU2LZy14yDnUi4dE8kBzf8BNaMf_ijBEv-mC1WzmXRqjLgueetNNntYIuPgvI/s1600/943961_10154023303729433_54535406404213483_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcNNu8Ece9OUVAoGJSChmihk9HlOw4bnAz2YTFEFBPXLwqTOCFRbhe6jM1IPE6jgmoXTf5Tr_lxGQnbqU2LZy14yDnUi4dE8kBzf8BNaMf_ijBEv-mC1WzmXRqjLgueetNNntYIuPgvI/s1600/943961_10154023303729433_54535406404213483_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcNNu8Ece9OUVAoGJSChmihk9HlOw4bnAz2YTFEFBPXLwqTOCFRbhe6jM1IPE6jgmoXTf5Tr_lxGQnbqU2LZy14yDnUi4dE8kBzf8BNaMf_ijBEv-mC1WzmXRqjLgueetNNntYIuPgvI/s1600/943961_10154023303729433_54535406404213483_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcNNu8Ece9OUVAoGJSChmihk9HlOw4bnAz2YTFEFBPXLwqTOCFRbhe6jM1IPE6jgmoXTf5Tr_lxGQnbqU2LZy14yDnUi4dE8kBzf8BNaMf_ijBEv-mC1WzmXRqjLgueetNNntYIuPgvI/s200/943961_10154023303729433_54535406404213483_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">About as perfect as it gets, <b>Architects</b> owned 2016 with this lead single off their tremendous album "<i><b>All Our Gods Have Abandoned Us</b></i>". A sequel to "<i>Gravedigger</i>" in many ways, the song captures the anger and discontent that many of us have known in the last year. <i>"A Match Made in Heaven</i>" would also pair nicely with <b>Enter Shikari's</b> "<i>Anaethetist</i>", whose pace and style make these two songs one in the same. A muted guitar riff blends with those signature atmospheric effects before the riff really gets your blood pumping and head banging. A rhythmic beat, pounding drum, and a strong breakdown make this one of the strongest songs of the year. But the lyrics, penned by the late Tom Searle, are what really make it the best. </span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-4990396579051324282016-12-31T20:00:00.000-05:002017-01-01T01:06:06.123-05:00Top 10 Albums of 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's always hard to nail down the best albums of the year. They're so many to consider. The list may change in the future, and we'll put a notice on the post if it does. Anyway, here are our picks for the Top 10 Albums of 2016. To read the companion post, "Top 10 Songs of 2016" click the link. </span></span></div>
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Please keep in mind, we can only listen to so many albums. If you think we missed one, leave a comment and tell us why you think it deserves to be on the list. Also, check out Honorable Mentions list. We only consider full length albums for this list, not EPs. </span></span><br />
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">To see our "Top 10 Songs of 2016" click the following (<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/12/quick-picks-best-songs-of-2016.html">link</a>). And remember, we try to shy away from "mainstream" acts, so don't expect to see<b> Queen B, David Bowie</b>, and the like here. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>10.</b></span></span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> "<i>Who You Selling For?</i>" - The Pretty Reckless (7.5 to 8)</b></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Your mind immediately jumps to Taylor Momsen when thinking of this band. Rightly so, her voice takes command and prove she's got one of the strongest voices in hard rock. But the album does more than showcase her vocals talents. Only on their 3rd album, The Pretty Reckless are just getting started with things. They've learned from their past mistakes. This album is far braver and more experimental than their previous. Digging deep into Southern rock, and blues, <b>TPR</b> write a less accessible album, that only a select few can truly appreciate. Momsen's raspy vocals suit this new style perfectly. The band still include their signature grunge-hard rock style for tracks like "Oh My God". But it's the diversity of the record that ultimately earns it a place on this list. </span></span><br />
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include <i>"Oh My God", </i></span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>"Wild City",</i> and</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> the title track. </span><br />
<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recommended for fans of <b>Halestorm, Heaven's Basement </b>and<b> Shinedown</b></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Note: Unfortunately we never got the chance to finish our full review for this album</span></span></span>
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9.</b> </span></span><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/05/pierce-veil-misadventures-review.html"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"</span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><i>Misadventures</i></b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">" - </span></a><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/05/pierce-veil-misadventures-review.html">Pierce the Veil </a>(7.5 to 8/10)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9u27mqzXiDJTHhgZm4cAFf49lP85e05MkHjkL5G7SwMOme1fjFmpGao_7JRRLSdgX20-I2p_NXIUpfcwmNVbvAt5Tf3C-vfvIKUZa6E8GU0skC4eSeyF0lTyc4_Zuxt_LoEdwEBuRzE/s1600/1500ptv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9u27mqzXiDJTHhgZm4cAFf49lP85e05MkHjkL5G7SwMOme1fjFmpGao_7JRRLSdgX20-I2p_NXIUpfcwmNVbvAt5Tf3C-vfvIKUZa6E8GU0skC4eSeyF0lTyc4_Zuxt_LoEdwEBuRzE/s1600/1500ptv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9u27mqzXiDJTHhgZm4cAFf49lP85e05MkHjkL5G7SwMOme1fjFmpGao_7JRRLSdgX20-I2p_NXIUpfcwmNVbvAt5Tf3C-vfvIKUZa6E8GU0skC4eSeyF0lTyc4_Zuxt_LoEdwEBuRzE/s200/1500ptv.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">It was worth the wait. "<i><b>Misadventures</b></i>" is still one of the great triumphs of the year. Though not as cohesive as "<i><b>Collide with the Sky</b></i>", the album delivers on the band's legacy. Dialing back the "Mexi-core" a bit for album 4, <b>PTV</b> create a modern post hardcore record for the books. Every song has been checked and doubled check and triple check for perfection. The few times the band drop the ball, they don't really drop the ball. It's just personal taste that will either deter you or draw you in. "<i>Circles" </i>is the big winner of this record. One of the band's lighter tracks, it's catchy melody and war torn lover theme will get you every time. And of course there's "<i>The Divine Zero</i>", which though has its flaws, has grown on us over time. </span></span><br />
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include <i>"Texas Is Forever", "Phantom Power and Ludicrous Speed", </i>and<i> "Today I Saw the World"</i></span></span><br />
<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recommended for fans of <b>Sleeping with Sirens, You Met at Six, </b>and<b> All Time Low</b></span></span></div>
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8. </b></span></span><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/05/modern-baseball-holy-ghost-review.html"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Holy Ghost</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">" - </span></a><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/05/modern-baseball-holy-ghost-review.html">Modern Baseball</a> (8/10)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2GV93JlbnRISVcyK67627DOCIHpPDj5KIIxENGJsKoXfCfkKhrr_9aND-O9YBoI6Kw2dle2t2x_1_SPUXu2b2wZKrhiOvteVQFprWAj0uKjTd9T4HiPAcS-7ESLIqVQhaKaoEz5PcIM/s1600/100000x100000-999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2GV93JlbnRISVcyK67627DOCIHpPDj5KIIxENGJsKoXfCfkKhrr_9aND-O9YBoI6Kw2dle2t2x_1_SPUXu2b2wZKrhiOvteVQFprWAj0uKjTd9T4HiPAcS-7ESLIqVQhaKaoEz5PcIM/s1600/100000x100000-999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2GV93JlbnRISVcyK67627DOCIHpPDj5KIIxENGJsKoXfCfkKhrr_9aND-O9YBoI6Kw2dle2t2x_1_SPUXu2b2wZKrhiOvteVQFprWAj0uKjTd9T4HiPAcS-7ESLIqVQhaKaoEz5PcIM/s200/100000x100000-999.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">One of, if not the most, captivating listens of the year. This album is overshadowed by bigger bands, and bigger sounds. But <b>Modern Baseball </b>shouldn't be forgotten. From the production, which gives the album a very warm, comfortable feel, to the old school emo style they've captured perfectly, this album is what you listen to curled up next to a fireplace. Tracks can vary from fast paced, punk inspired tracks that get you out of your seat, to slower acoustic, "coffee shop" vibe tracks. But the album's real strength lies in the lyrics. With two writers, it's easy to tell who wrote which song. Frontman Brenden Lukes writes from the heart, while lead guitarist and backing vocalist Jake Ewald writes relatable stories (not unlike Taylor Swift if you need a comparison). </span></span><br />
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include<i> "Apple Cider, I Don't Mind", Every Day" </i>and<i> "Just Another Face" </i></span></span><br />
<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recommended for fans of <b>The Wonder Years, Transit, </b>and<b> Say Anything</b></span></span><br />
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7. </b><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/05/saosin-along-shadow-review.html">"</a></span></span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/05/saosin-along-shadow-review.html"><i>Along The Shadow</i>" - Saosin</a> (8/10)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDxG5zRtvqYostIbvtEJ5WsxBgAnFRbbVDScPcp5FScWg0ncFoEdmLjAAYsLX9Hp1TccSb7hdgVnJXZukMmj_vcfJqlcbCaUBxAfwZoRSzgm3bIBmc4iUnjNwt46oDNG_XHItvufD60c/s1600/600sao.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDxG5zRtvqYostIbvtEJ5WsxBgAnFRbbVDScPcp5FScWg0ncFoEdmLjAAYsLX9Hp1TccSb7hdgVnJXZukMmj_vcfJqlcbCaUBxAfwZoRSzgm3bIBmc4iUnjNwt46oDNG_XHItvufD60c/s1600/600sao.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDxG5zRtvqYostIbvtEJ5WsxBgAnFRbbVDScPcp5FScWg0ncFoEdmLjAAYsLX9Hp1TccSb7hdgVnJXZukMmj_vcfJqlcbCaUBxAfwZoRSzgm3bIBmc4iUnjNwt46oDNG_XHItvufD60c/s200/600sao.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The long-awaited sequel to 2009's "<i>In Search of Solid Ground</i>" met expectations and then some. This album marked original vocalist Anthony Green's return to the band after ten years. And with his return, <b>Saosin</b> went back to their roots for this record. Shifting their sound to something heavier, with more prominent use of unclean vocals, this is the <b>Saosin</b> you fell in love with al those years ago. </span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lead single, "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The Silver String</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">" seemed to a direct callback to 2003's "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">T<b>ranslating The Name</b></i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">". From Green's melodic clean vocals, to his nail biting screams, it was like being a kid again (if you were a kid when you listened to the album). Then you can switch over to something a bit more mellow like "<i>Sore Distress</i>", which has the makings of a ballad but the energy of an arena anthem. This is 2016's best comeback album, and was well worth the wait. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include<i> “Ideology is Theft”,</i> "<i>The Secret Meaning of Freedom</i>" and “<i>Illusion & Control</i>” </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recommended for fans of <b>Dance Gavin Dance</b>,<b> Senses Fail, </b>and <b>A Lot Like Birds</b></span></span><br />
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6. <a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/07/letlive-if-im-devil-review.html">"<i>If I'm the Devil...</i>" - letlive.</a> (8/10)</span></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KAVHvMkkwMfmsNjCd_5fHP51Q7abYfPu0lDoXemyWNjVxskaYBJ3uPxAuqgQIx1IFEy85ZIxGBkIZo5X20mbkTzCbUVlDStnRvSO87wJI_v9do404kAAZJw7kLwcrXoyVC-1vVc8G-k/s1600/letlive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KAVHvMkkwMfmsNjCd_5fHP51Q7abYfPu0lDoXemyWNjVxskaYBJ3uPxAuqgQIx1IFEy85ZIxGBkIZo5X20mbkTzCbUVlDStnRvSO87wJI_v9do404kAAZJw7kLwcrXoyVC-1vVc8G-k/s1600/letlive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KAVHvMkkwMfmsNjCd_5fHP51Q7abYfPu0lDoXemyWNjVxskaYBJ3uPxAuqgQIx1IFEy85ZIxGBkIZo5X20mbkTzCbUVlDStnRvSO87wJI_v9do404kAAZJw7kLwcrXoyVC-1vVc8G-k/s200/letlive.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">This band has never gotten the respect or success they deserve. Crafting one of the most insightful, creative albums of 2016, <b>letlive</b>. have a lot to offer listeners. A pure fusion of R&B, experimental rock, post hardcore, rap, and blues. Which sounds like something Issues might do, but make no mistake <b>letlive</b>. are writing at a much higher caliber. </span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A politically fueled album that speaks out against injustices and challenges ideas. In contrast, many of the instrumental elements pull from genres you wouldn't necessarily associate with those themes. You get some electronic samples, some new wave melodies, and of course some very dark hip hop (a personal favorite).</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Lead single, "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Good Mourning America</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">" is without a doubt one of the band's finest songs. It sets the tone for this dark, brooding album. </span><br />
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include "<i>Reluctantly Dead", "Another Offensive Song</i>" and the title track</span></span><br />
<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recommended for fans of <b>Issues</b>, <b>Deftones</b>, and <b>Enter Shikari</b></span></span></div>
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<b>5. </b></span></span><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/09/a-day-to-remember-bad-vibrations-review.html"><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><i>"Bad Vibrations</i></b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">" -</span></a><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/09/a-day-to-remember-bad-vibrations-review.html"> A Day to Remember</a> (8/10) </b><br />
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<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwd4SaKuDqkYQ5J7PZTdO1S6bPJrQtAa9euMSrYKKV4ZSllOaJXubK2bqf37vLeTqw0WI4W7kABZd9286cr10QB_AsGetN46pq8GpLFHqHP0M6yIuH9xvyAd2WKEv8ZAspntH4iCqR0Q/s1600/1425adtr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwd4SaKuDqkYQ5J7PZTdO1S6bPJrQtAa9euMSrYKKV4ZSllOaJXubK2bqf37vLeTqw0WI4W7kABZd9286cr10QB_AsGetN46pq8GpLFHqHP0M6yIuH9xvyAd2WKEv8ZAspntH4iCqR0Q/s1600/1425adtr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwd4SaKuDqkYQ5J7PZTdO1S6bPJrQtAa9euMSrYKKV4ZSllOaJXubK2bqf37vLeTqw0WI4W7kABZd9286cr10QB_AsGetN46pq8GpLFHqHP0M6yIuH9xvyAd2WKEv8ZAspntH4iCqR0Q/s200/1425adtr.jpg" width="200" /></a></b></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">One of the best surprises of an otherwise tumultuous year, <b>A Day to Remember </b>dropped lead single, “<i>Paranoia</i>” back in March just in time for their Self Help Fest. Three or so months later, the band announced their 6th album and dropped the title track as the second single. Yet another throwback album, <b>ADTR</b> return to their 2007 roots and give listeners the heavier, hardcore album they’ve been asking for. As opposed to previous album “<b><i>Common Courtesy</i></b>”, the band forgo any attempt to craft a modern hard rock album and just to what they know best. Mixing their brand of hardcore with pop punk. </span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The minimal production makes it seem as if you're in the studio with the band as they record each track. McKinnon takes a step back from the producers chair, and just focuses on writing, which has proven to be one of the better decisions. Because, where previous albums had this sort of "shine" to them, this one feels natural, and organic in a way the last two weren't. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include “<i>Naivety</i>”, “<i>Bullfight</i>”, and “<i>We Got This</i>”</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recommended for fans of <b>Four Year Strong, The Wonder Years, </b>and <b>New Found Glory</b></span></span></div>
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<b>4. </b></span></span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/10/dance-gavin-dance-mothership-review.html">"<i>Mothership</i>" - Dance Gavin Dance</a> (8 to 8.5/10)</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuymx-iNtKI2r3rcCPqEvbv95vjNXVq4pC5t_CKzRKliKxvx-0v-dYDSnBJ228jqEQzwJpgA0wNZkO-MsKFvN4FOVX6Q5r-cmM6_thyphenhyphenVDKnKcZfFUlE-2iDj5MJ-Np2AwZCnPuBMN1rA/s1600/100000x100000-999+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuymx-iNtKI2r3rcCPqEvbv95vjNXVq4pC5t_CKzRKliKxvx-0v-dYDSnBJ228jqEQzwJpgA0wNZkO-MsKFvN4FOVX6Q5r-cmM6_thyphenhyphenVDKnKcZfFUlE-2iDj5MJ-Np2AwZCnPuBMN1rA/s1600/100000x100000-999+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuymx-iNtKI2r3rcCPqEvbv95vjNXVq4pC5t_CKzRKliKxvx-0v-dYDSnBJ228jqEQzwJpgA0wNZkO-MsKFvN4FOVX6Q5r-cmM6_thyphenhyphenVDKnKcZfFUlE-2iDj5MJ-Np2AwZCnPuBMN1rA/s200/100000x100000-999+%25283%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Imagine if Wes Anderson suddenly started to write music. That's <b>Dance Gavin Dance</b> in a crazy, kooky, and whimsical nutshell. The band brings together a broad range of styles and sounds to give us what we've come to love over the years. <b>DGD's</b> music has a certain grit to it, while maintaining a mainstream undertone. Evident in tracks like "<i>Chucky vs The Giant Tortoise" </i>and<i> "Betrayed by the Game</i>". Slightly more experimental (for the band anyway) tracks like "<i>Chocolate Jackalope</i>" see <b>DGD</b> testing how their sound mixes with R&B and soul. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This album is full of songs that, while may seem absurd, are exactly what we never knew we needed. Earworm after earworm, smothered in lines like "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Riding a rhino, pico de gallo. Rooster's beak, I'll sleep when I leap that jeep</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">". Few words can describe the confusing song that is "<i>Flossie Dickie Bounce</i>". It starts with the bold line "<i>Cocaine cringe fest!</i>", that speaks volumes by itself. But that doesn't make it any less appealing, because that's one of the hardest, fastest tracks the band has to offer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Tracks to listen to include "<i>Young Robot", "Deception", </i>and<i> "Man of the Year</i>". </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Recommended for fans of <b>The Color Morale</b>, <b>letlive</b>. and <b>Emarosa</b></span></div>
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<b>3. "<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/05/architects-all-our-gods-have-abandoned.html"><i>All Our Gods Have Abandoned Us</i>" - Architects</a> (8.5/10)</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcNNu8Ece9OUVAoGJSChmihk9HlOw4bnAz2YTFEFBPXLwqTOCFRbhe6jM1IPE6jgmoXTf5Tr_lxGQnbqU2LZy14yDnUi4dE8kBzf8BNaMf_ijBEv-mC1WzmXRqjLgueetNNntYIuPgvI/s1600/943961_10154023303729433_54535406404213483_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcNNu8Ece9OUVAoGJSChmihk9HlOw4bnAz2YTFEFBPXLwqTOCFRbhe6jM1IPE6jgmoXTf5Tr_lxGQnbqU2LZy14yDnUi4dE8kBzf8BNaMf_ijBEv-mC1WzmXRqjLgueetNNntYIuPgvI/s200/943961_10154023303729433_54535406404213483_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tom Searle's final album is the crowning achieve of his far too short life. Griffin J. Elliot of Exclaim puts it best when he says, “<i>The record is so goddam heavy and fast, it sounds like what one could only assume smoking crack cocaine with </i><b><i>Northlane</i></b><i> sounds like.</i>” After years of struggling, <b>Architects</b> have found their sound, and it’s one of the best things a fan of metalcore can hear. “<b><i>All Our Gods Have Abandoned Us</i></b>” is an album that’s equal parts modern metal, progressive, electronic, and Sam Carter’s signature “<i>Bleh</i>!”. Continuing with the sound they crafted for “<b><i>Lost Forever//Lost Together</i></b>”, <b>Architects</b> infuse passionate lyrics with a sound that encompasses a eclectic range of genres, while never straying too far from native metalcore. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include “<i>A Match Made in Heaven”, “Phantom Fear” </i>and<i> “Downfall</i>”</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recommended for fans of <b>Bring Me The Horizon, While She Sleeps </b>and<b> The Amity Affliction.</b> </span></span></div>
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<b>2. "<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/09/too-close-to-touch-havent-been-myself.html"><i>Haven't Been Myself"</i> - Too Close To Touch</a> (9/10)</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREtZUzuQUt1IWqe2XWIVWnluTtycNyF0Ergh1CVCr-k1yFYUgeuBK-bkgGK0THpHm95qojzO_IgknVn-dEHfRjUQcsc-OZ6EsqYInJRzPMJS6aTOjbwq2brQ_PScCA_lNxxzWdj87ZFc/s1600/100000x100000-999+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREtZUzuQUt1IWqe2XWIVWnluTtycNyF0Ergh1CVCr-k1yFYUgeuBK-bkgGK0THpHm95qojzO_IgknVn-dEHfRjUQcsc-OZ6EsqYInJRzPMJS6aTOjbwq2brQ_PScCA_lNxxzWdj87ZFc/s1600/100000x100000-999+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREtZUzuQUt1IWqe2XWIVWnluTtycNyF0Ergh1CVCr-k1yFYUgeuBK-bkgGK0THpHm95qojzO_IgknVn-dEHfRjUQcsc-OZ6EsqYInJRzPMJS6aTOjbwq2brQ_PScCA_lNxxzWdj87ZFc/s200/100000x100000-999+%25282%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">If there was one album that blew us and our expectations away, it was this one. <b>Too Close To Touch</b> burst onto the scene with their debut, "<b><i>Nerve Endings</i></b>" and it seemed impossible for them to top that. They did that and more. Their follow up, "<b><i>Haven't Been Myself</i></b>" gives new meaning to emotional and cathartic. The raw power of this record will leave you speechless. We can't praise it enough. It's become THE standout of the year, and one of our top album period. If you haven't heard this, at the very least listen to the ending track, "<i>Eiley</i>". Goosebumps. goosebumps every fucking where. And tears, can't forget the tears. You won't be able to keep them from flowing once you hear the bridge. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include “<i>What I Wish I Could Forget”, “Miss Your Face”, </i>and<i> “Inside Voices</i>”</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recommended for fans of<b> Hands Like Houses (</b>who just edge out for the top spot on this list)<b>, Tonight Alive, </b>and<b> Sleeping with Sirens </b></span></span></div>
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<b>1. "<i><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/02/hands-like-houses-dissonants-review.html">Dissonants"</a></i></b><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/02/hands-like-houses-dissonants-review.html"> - </a><b><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/02/hands-like-houses-dissonants-review.html">Hands Like Houses</a> (9 to 9.5/10) </b></span></span><br />
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The band that just seems to know no bounds. Their musical journey over the past five years has been one for the ages. It's incredible to think that they're only just getting started.<b> Hands Like Houses</b> elevate themselves with "<b><i>Dissonants</i></b>", a darker, more intimate take on their usual post hardcore/alt. rock. From opening track and lead single, “<i>I Am</i>” (which was released almost a year before the album), to the quieter, calm of “<i>Motion Sickness</i>”. There’s something for every fan of <b>HLH</b>. The band take their more theatrical post hardcore and their rhythmic alt. rock, then transform them into a new style that is the best of the three. Their take on breakdowns is enough reason to put them on this list. Rather than just chug it out, their breakdowns/bridges rely on the band's ability to mix melody with rhythms. A recipe for success we hope they repeat in the future. You really can't beat the pre-chorus breakdown on "<i>I Am</i>", it's just perfect. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tracks to listen to include “<i>I Am”, “Degrees of Separation”, </i>and<i> “Grey Havens</i>”</span></span></div>
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-44711625731538458712016-12-22T18:30:00.000-05:002017-01-24T01:10:39.874-05:00Memphis May Fire - "This Light I Hold" Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Memphis May Fire's</b> new album rocks, that's all that needs to be said to describe it. Pulling out new tricks, as well as some old ones to deliver an album that will go definitely appear on a few best of the year lists. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/this-light-i-hold/id1145610247">link</a>) to buy the album on iTunes. And be sure to catch the band on tour with <b>The Devil Wears Prada </b>this fall. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">**This was supposed to be posted on November 7**</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">They've learned from past mistakes, thank whatever deity you chose to believe in (or not believe in). Ya, Matty Mullins went a little overboard with all the Christian metal on the last album. It's alright to share you beliefs, but there were moments where "<i><b>Unconditional</b></i>" felt like we were watching one of those "paid for" TV spots on religion at 4 am. Thankfully he dialed it back, so songs aren't so preachy and self-righteous. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Featuring more guitar solos and more unclean vocals, this is one killer album. While it doesn't quite reach the heights set by songs like "<i>Prove Me Right" </i>or<i> "Alive in the Lights"</i>, but it does surpass the band's previous album, "<i><b>Unconditional</b></i>". The "southern charm" has left the band's music, which in hindsight is probably a decision for the better. And if it's any consolation, <b>MMF</b> have brought back some of their older tricks for this record. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lead single, "<i>Carry On</i>", showcases Mullin's writing talents as well as Kellen McGregor's lead guitar chops. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band give us another example of how they're moving away from their original style of metal. Which in this case is a plus, as the band has evolved into modern metalcore royalty. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Track by Track Review</u> -</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>1) "Out Of It" - 8 to 8.5/10 </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">An eerie ending, this song seems like it should be the theme song for a comic book villain from the 90s. It's industrial metal done <b>MMF</b> style. Another way of putting it might be <b>MMF's</b> take on <b>Motionless in White</b>. From the "spooky" electronics to the overall vibe you get from the song, it's an aggressive and powerful opening for the album. Setting the tone immediately, you know this record is going to be full of angst and uneasy emotions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>2) "Carry On" - 8/10 </b>(<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/08/memphis-may-fire-carry-on-single-review.html">Click this link to read our full review</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>3) "Wanting More" - 8.5/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A song that seems out of <b>MMF's</b> comfort zone, but that gamble pays off. This song takes the cake as the standout on the record, if only because it was something fans could never have expected. You can plainly hear the band pulling from the more theatrical side of metal. The chorus in particular is a standout for the record. It sounds like it could have been taken straight from<b> Get Scared's "Demons" </b>or <b>New Years Day's</b> "<b><i>Malevolence</i></b>". The groove in the verses, and the strong piano backing make this the band's most grandiose tracks yet. The build up to the pre-chorus and then the breakdown, are superb. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>4) "Sever The Ties" - 7.5 to 8/10 </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Immediately brutal, this song is what fans have been asking for. Memphis May Fire show they aren't afraid to go heavy, and we mean really heavy. Arguably one of the heaviest tracks the band has put forth thus far. It's a guilty pleasure, because while it is heavy, it doesn't offer much. Formulaic, and "safe" as far as the usual lyrical themes go, it's still a great listen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>5) "The Enemy" - 6.5/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A filler track, that's really all that can be said. This song doesn't seem to have any other purpose. The riff is solid, and Mullin's vocals are harsh, but the chorus is such a let down. You don't slow things down, you ramp them up. The band did mix in some strong orchestration behind their slower chorus, so points to them for that. But the bridge knocks down a few more points, as they do their usual "build up to the chorus" thing. Almost exactly as they have on previous tracks like<i> "No Ordinary Love" </i>and<i> "Beneath The Skin". </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">6) "This Light I Hold" - 7.5 to 8/10</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The guest spots from Jacoby Shaddix are unneccessary, but otherwise this song is strong where others are weak. Finding a good balance between the clean vocals and the unclean, the title track pairs very nicely with existing tracks like "<i>No Ordinary Love" </i>and<i> "Jezebel</i>". But again, Shaddix's verses don't add anything to the song. The hook is great, and Jake Garland's drumming here is one of the highlights from the album. The positives outweigh the negatives in this case, giving us a great song to put on replay. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>7) "That's Just Life" - 6.5 to 7/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Kinda a half and half for most listeners. It's a pleasant surprise to hear the band going for the "southern" acoustic vibe on the track. On the other side, the lyrics of the song couldn't be more cut and copy. The level of passion and soul found on the acoustic version of "Need to Be" is seriously lacking as well. And in a bizarre twist, especially considering who the producer for this album was, the vocals are actually underwhelming. The acoustic guitar is front and center when it should be, and when Mullin's voice should be. In the end the track comes off as a bit forced and "made in studio". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>8) "Letting Go" - 6.5 to 7/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The heavily electronic intro is lost on the rest of this track. If you're going to start with those kind of electronics, keep them going throughout the rest of the song. As the full intro kicks in, they're shoved to the background. If this had been a purely electronic track, which backing from the typical instruments, then this might have been that moment <b>MMF</b> broke away from the blueprint. The melodic and almost sluggish chorus, full of lyrics we've heard a million times before, isn't quite what one can imagine the band wanted it to be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>9) "The Antidote" - 7.5/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One of the first songs to feature "Whoas", and it's not as cheesy as you might think. The song's driven, and nonstop in its delivery. A much needed energy boost after the two previous tracks. "<i>The Antidote</i>" also features a strong guitar solo, something we thought we'd see a lot more of considering how it's been used in previous songs like "<i>My Generation", "Stay the Course", </i>and<i> "Carry On</i>". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>10) "Better Things" - 7/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Just as "<i>The Antidote</i>" brings back hope the album will pick up some of its lost momentum, this track brings us back down. It's more of the same <b>MMF</b>. So think of it what you will. Familiar territory is nice, but this is the band's 5th album. We hold them to a higher caliber and standard. Another guilty pleasure track at the end of the day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>11) "Not Over Yet" - 6/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A pale copy of "<i>Beneath The Skin</i>", and then the band go and throw in Larry Soliman's vocals for no reason. The song has a nice message, but its delivery is so cliche and typical one may find themselves cringing a few times. Seems like the entire second half of this record was half assed. The bad drops the ball on this track, big time. If you want to listen to some "hopecore" try <b>The Color Morale </b>(whose delivery is less cringe worthy and a better listen)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>12) "Unashamed" - 6.5 to 7/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Again, the band uses a strong electronic intro to no effect. The instrumentals, which have been strong thus far, are weakest on this track. The slow down and tone down for the bridge is completely pointless. If it was to give Mullins' vocals more punch, it didn't work. Then a quick build up to another breakdown, what a shocker. The chorus is the saving grace for an otherwise filler song. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>13) "Live It Well" - 7.5 to 8/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The closing track ends on a much higher note than the rest of the album. <b>MMF</b> balance the melodic, and rhythmic perfectly. Orchestration could have been utilized more, then again so could the heavier moments. Regardless, this song ends the record on a positive note compared to the preceding tracks. Still fairly blueprinted, "<i>Live It Well</i>" strays enough that we're content with the final result. The little "spoken word" thing at the end is a nice touch, however unneccessary. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> - </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"<b><i>This Light I Hold</i></b>" starts out strong, until the halfway mark. And then everything starts to fall apart. Make no mistake, this record is strong and consistent throughout. But the consistency stems from the formulaic song structure, garbled vocals and the boring lyrics.true to one's identity is important but showing how you've changed in important as well.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Amidst similar artists like </span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We Came as Romans, Asking Alexandria, </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">and label-mates</span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Crown the Empire,</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> <b>Memphis May Fire</b> don't stray from the pack enough for this album to really leave a lasting impression. A pity, because if this album had that extra wow factor it would probably be on our "Best of 2016" list. </span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">MMF</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> will need to bring their A-game for album #6 if they want to really impress listeners. </span><br />
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</u><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Favorite Tracks</u> -</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>No question, "Out Of It", </b><b>"Carry On", "Wanting More", steal the show. </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Average Rating - 7.3/10</span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Rating Breakdown -</b> </span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-71302032908287707292016-11-05T21:00:00.000-04:002016-11-05T21:00:09.399-04:00Our Last Night - "Common Ground" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmVdOnI3-J3tzCDsxoIRGrdvWSq50LFOyCahulCxRYvjeLK17BLVDpJ_LJc8Yn7rALls-yny5_o73QsizM0aEy7d72gb2ht4GAVJztuV6NOImNjYY-_LJGY7Px6zo_wOJITyksnhWI58/s1600/14915602_10154489029160664_8592692804341410928_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmVdOnI3-J3tzCDsxoIRGrdvWSq50LFOyCahulCxRYvjeLK17BLVDpJ_LJc8Yn7rALls-yny5_o73QsizM0aEy7d72gb2ht4GAVJztuV6NOImNjYY-_LJGY7Px6zo_wOJITyksnhWI58/s200/14915602_10154489029160664_8592692804341410928_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Taking a little bit of old, but more of the new, <b>Our Last Night</b> continue their progress from misunderstood metalheads to a slick, mature alt-rock group. Their newest single, "<i>Common Ground</i>" was released just in time for their tour with <b>Hands Like Houses, The Color Morale, </b>and<b> Out Came the Wolves</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To buy this single on iTunes click this (link). And don't forget to catch them on the "<b>Face to Face</b>" Tour later this month.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The boy haven't taken a moment off, releasing a string of cover singles since their 2015 album, "<i><b>Younger Dreams</b></i>". And they're continuing the progression towards the lighter sound they started on said album. It's not for everyone, and it's not perfect. The song could use with a good dose of energy, maybe even an adrenaline shot. The pace starts off slow, and that's to be expected. By the time the chorus comes around, we're expecting things to burst to life. They don't.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We're waiting and waiting for that "punch" that never shows. The song remains flat. This could be acceptable if it were meant to be a slower, softer ballad type track. But it's not. The little energy that does come across only lasts about 10 seconds in the second verse. And that's only because of the random screaming throw in just to please those fans who gripe about the band not doing enough heavy material. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In all honesty, the unclean vocals are totally unneccessary. The second verse would have been better off just sung, instead of screamed. No emotion, just Trevor screaming for the sack of throwing some screams in there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If anything the song comes off as forced, unoriginal and generic. In a sea of other songs about fighting war for no reasons, and being angry for something you don't believe in, it doesn't stand out. Election 2016 is closing in on us, and it's clear the band wanted to bank on any uneasy feelings listeners might have. But the song should have been much more aggressive and angsty, like "<i>The Broken</i>" by <b>Youth in Revolt</b> (which we just reviewed). Instead we get a slower, alt rock track that doesn't gain momentum and remains stagnant throughout its 4 minute duration. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> -</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the end, <b>Our Last Night </b>still haven't perfected their "new" sound. They have bugs to work out as they find themselves, but we're happy to be along for the ride. If anything, this single proves that the band aren't afraid to venture into uncharted waters, and push themselves. Much respect for the band for that. But guys, come on, stop trying so hard. You know that sound you had on "<b><i>Oak Island</i></b>", that worked in your favor. Stick to that. These days, <b>OLN</b> seems more like a cover band. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Rating</u> - 7 to 7.5/10</b></span></div>
cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-74545823847055558752016-11-05T20:00:00.000-04:002016-11-05T20:00:02.631-04:00Youth in Revolt - "The Broken" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">From the falsetto of the frontman, to the well timed screams and subtle (or not so subtle in some instances) breakdowns, </span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Youth in Revolt </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">definitely prove they have staying power. The proof? This single. Could we be looking at the new <b>Sleeping with Sirens, </b>don't rule it out <b>Youth in Revolt</b> might just be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To preorder their album,"<b><i>The Broken"</i></b>, and get the titular single, click the following (<a href="http://www.allinmerch.com/category/OUTERLOOP.html">link</a>).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you've been following this band since the beginning you know that they're lineup and sound have gone through some drastic changes over the past 3 or so years. At the start they had a much heavier, unrefined sound. Lyrics were pretty bad, and the breakdowns couldn't have been more generic. Flash forward a couple of years and the band have finally found their style.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Despite losing members T</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">rue Arahill (lead vocalist), George Shoulder (guitar), and Scott Baker (drummer), YIR's sound is as it was. Pop punk meets hardcore. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This new single banks on the discontent stemming from Election 2016. A song that's full of rebelliousness, unrest, and anger. A complete 180 from their cover of "<i>Something In The Way You Move</i>", which was more along the lines of edgier pop rock. This song banks on the heavier material the band has previously put out like "<i>There for You", "When It's Over" </i>and<i> "Dead Inside". </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's a instantly recognizable as a YIR track with the crunchy guitars and gritty screams from bassist and vocalist Kenny Torres. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A fast, punk influenced track brimming with all sorts of emotions. If you've got an "Election 2016" playlist, add this to it. This is the perfect track to be jamming out to as you stroll into the polling area. The lyrics, while fairly generic as far as "our generation isn't being heard" go, but it's sure to get your blood pumping. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Another thing that hasn't changed about the band, their keen taste for guitar and bass riffs. In fact, they put the instrumentals forward as the main event. Vocals are pushed back a layer, which is either by design or a failure on the part of whoever was mixing this track. We do the engineer points for mixing in the effects and orchestration seamlessly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">No matter how muffled the vocals, Tanner </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Allen has shown he's capable of stepping into Arahill's shoes. We've already heard what he's capable of from his work with </span><b style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Brightwell</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> (which we suspected is recently or soon to be disbanded). He still has a lot of work to do before his voice can hold its own against the likes of Kellin Quinn, or Tyler Carter, but we can't expect him to be perfect on his first outing with the band. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> - </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">After coming back from the brink of disbandment, <b>Youth in Revolt </b>return with a rejuvenated line-up, a more energetic sound, and their debut on the horizon. This song is a good reintroduction to the band, and more than proves to fans they haven't lost any of the things that made us fall in love with them in the first place. This is the band's "Kick Me", if we're keeping with the Sleeping with Sirens comparison. Here's to their debut, and any future singles they may release between now and January. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Rating</u> - 7.5 to 8/10</b></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-9309876891588726702016-10-29T20:00:00.000-04:002016-10-29T20:00:02.947-04:00I Prevail - "Lifelines" Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's tough being caught in the shadow of a cover. Especially a Taylor Swift cover. But <b>I Prevail</b> have worked long and hard to make a name for themselves outside the realm of "cover band". Though it's safe to say that cover is always going to be looming over them as their big break.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To buy the band's album on iTunes please click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/lifelines/id1139963495">link</a>).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">When you go into this album, be prepared for highs and lows. This record is the end result of years of practicing, and trying to shake off (pun intended) all connections to I Prevail's cover of "<i>Blank Space</i>". It's created a negative image for a band that isn't nearly as bad as some may lead you to believe. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Their strengths lie in their understanding of how to write hooks and riffs that stay in your head all day. Strongest on tracks like singles, "<i>Scars</i>" and "<i>Stuck in Your Head</i>", where the band use all their tricks to give us two hits. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The band relies on pop punk and rock more than other "core" outlets do. It gives their music a broader crossover range, and appeals to more than just you "mosh-pit" kids. The record isn't as black and white as you might think. There are plenty of stereotypical hardcore moments, screaming with strong breakdowns, and then straight to sing-along vocals, but they're evened out with the moments of bouncier pop punk and mellower, almost ballad like melodies. It's great seeing a group that isn't constricted to genres. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>I Prevail,</b> in that sense, feels like a pale copy of <b>A Day to Remember</b>. Even the artwork for their two albums, "<i><b>Heart vs Mind</b></i>" and "<b><i>Lifelines</i></b>", were designed by the same man behind <b>ADTR's</b> "<b><i>Homesick</i></b>". </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Eric Vanlerberghe's (that's a mouthful) unclean vocals ground the band in the heavy music genres. Between his screams, the band's crushing breakdowns and their bouncy hooks they really do seem like an up-in-coming version of </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">A Day to Remember. </b><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">"<i>Come and Get It</i>" is a particularly intense track, that pulls from the band's heavy side. An almost vengeful track that really banks on the "heavy/pop punk" play off, it's a standout on this rough around the edges album. "<i>Chaos" </i>is another track that really hits home hard, and heavy. It's arguable one of the heaviest, if not THE heaviest. It's a melodic hardcore band's take on modern metalcore. It has its ups and downs, all in all just a fun track to listen to.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">The one place the band really fall down is in the lyrics. The chorus of "<i>Always Dead"</i> is a real killer, and not in a good way. "<i>If I could bring you back to life, I would kill you again.</i>" Oh god where to even start with that line. Sure the band's name is "<b>I Prevail</b>" for a reason, but the lyrics get so generic at times it's cringe worthy. And their stabs at doing ballads are complete flops. They do have moments when you might be like, "Oh this is pretty good", and then it's just a cheese fest of cliches and stereotypical crescendos. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And as <b>I Prevail</b> dance all over the map, trying out new things and returning to the same old-same old, there's a lack of cohesiveness on this debut that gives this more of an "unfinished demo" vibe. Like the band couldn't decide what direction to go in, so they just threw everything onto one CD. Experimenting is great, but as with similar efforts (<b>Sleeping with Sirens, Tonight Alive </b>and<b> All Time Low</b>), sometimes too much is simply too much. Scale it back, dial it down, and focus on perfecting what you're known for. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> -</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Rough around the edges, certainly not perfect, but <b>I Prevail</b> are off to the right start. Things can only get better form here, assuming the band can learn from their mistakes. Because the one word to describe this record is inconsistent. The band have moments of genius and then moments of "face down in the dirt". Again, we're hoping the band can learn and improve for album 2, because they show so much promise. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This album comes recommended for fans of <b>Sleeping with Sirens, The Wonder Years, </b>and some<b> A Day to Remember</b> fans. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Recommended Tracks</u> - </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Scars", "Come and Get It", and "Stuck in Your Head" are particular favorites. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><u>Rating</u> - 7</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">/10</span></span></b><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-60871434015006383222016-10-23T20:00:00.000-04:002016-10-23T20:00:16.947-04:00Dance Gavin Dance - "Mothership " Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Unconventional is the best way to describe this band. <b>Dance Gavin Dance</b> added their names to the list of bands who owned 2016. The end of the summer saw a string of singles, and now it's time for the main event. Let's dive into their 7th album, and see what the band has to offer this time around. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To buy the album on iTunes click the following (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/mothership/id1138328704">link</a>).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band has gone through lineup changes, musical shifts, and career highs and lows. Right now, they're back on top and hitting their stride. The third album with Tillian Pearson handling clean vocals, he has cemented his place as the band's best vocalist. Outshining Kurt Travis, who handled both clean and unclean vocals during his tenure, and Jonny Craig (who is by now known for jumping from band to band). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The album is formulaic as far as <b>DGD's</b> sound goes. It's not too far off from previous releases featuring the Pearson/Jon Mess combination. Just enough crazy to keep you on your toes. Of course if you're new to the band you'll think the band have gone off the deep end. You know a band has balls when they're bold enough to put some funky pan flute melodies into a song ("<i>Young Robot" </i>and<i> "Inspire The Liars"</i>). </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The band are no strangers to electronics either. The intense techno intro in "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Philosopher King</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">" is blasted apart by Mess' vocals and a powerful series of guitar riffs. The electronics make a return during the second verse of "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Chocolate Jackalope</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">". Never overpowering a song, but never under utilized either, </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">DGD</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> have a great balance of electronics, production, and traditional instrumental riffs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"<i>Young Robot</i>" gives you some breathing space, as it brings the tempo down from a 9 to a 7.5. A wise choice, as it also centers on Pearson's vocals as opposed to Mess' like on the previous track. The band don't sacrifice energy or skill for a more melodic track. The band's formula is ever present on this track and third song "<i>Frozen One</i>". Between the two, "<i>Frozen One</i>" stands out as the stronger (though the catchy R&B verses do give "<i>Young Robot</i>" a few extra points). </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The vocal harmonies, the electric guitar melody and strong drums give it the boost, also placing it between "<i>Chucky</i>..." and "<i>Young Robot</i>" on the tempo meter.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">But if you really want to grab someone's attention start a song by screaming, "<i>Cocaine cringe fest!!!!</i>". Or give it a title like, "</span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Flossie Dickie Bounce</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">". T</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">he track does lives up to its name, as it has plenty of "bounce". The song is a perfect mix of <b>DGD</b>'s eclectic style. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The song has moments of hardcore punk and then it dips into more progressive rock styles during the latter half of the song. It's all over the map, as expected of the band. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Starting the album on a catchy, upbeat note, </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">"</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Chucky vs. The Giant Tortoise</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">" is a powerful number that sets the tone for the rest of the record. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The quick, instrumentals, particularly the lead guitar, set a frenetic pace that sweeps you from verse to verse with little downtime. Once you start the song, be prepared to head bang for a solid 4 minutes. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The entire song is an earworm, and captures the crazy nature of <b>DGD</b> perfectly. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">With lyrics like, "Riding a rhino, pico de gallo, rooster's beak, I'll sleep when I leap that jeep" and "Hades arc, golden tarp. Black hole, slack is for, slack is for cutting me more", it's easy to understand why the band dance the line of insane. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Perhaps one of the strongest songs due in part to polarizing vocals. Mess's gritty uncleans compared to Pearson's falsetto can't be matched by any other vocal duo. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Don't believe us? Tracks like "<i>Here Comes The Winner</i>" "<i>Deception</i>" and "<i>Philosopher King</i>" are a few gems where the band makes full use of their vocals abilities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> - </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This album is perfect for fans of Dance Gavin Dance, and those brave enough to try something new. From the absurdity of "Chucky vs The Giant Tortoise" to the melodic crooning in "Exposed", there's a little bit of everything. As opposed to other bands, who try to appeal to larger audiences by throwing in random nods to other genres, DGD's transitions between styles feels natural and makes their sound unique. We were expecting greatness, and that's what we got. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Favorite Tracks</u></b> - </span><i>"Chucky vs...", "Deception", "Here Comes the Winner</i>", "<i>Chocolate Jackalope</i>" and "<i>Man Of The Year" </i>to name a few. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Average Rating</u> - 8/10 </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> <b>Rating Breakdown -</b></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-43928068079863977872016-10-21T20:00:00.000-04:002016-10-21T21:59:59.693-04:00Featured Band - Too Close To Touch<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Too Close To Touch</b> are rising higher and higher with every passing second. Their debut album seemed to be their peak, but it was just the beginning. We're pleased to feature them as our "Band of the Month". You can be sure to expect to see them featured in the near future, as no amount of words can do them justice.<br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Click this link to read our review of the band's latest album, "<i><b><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/09/too-close-to-touch-havent-been-myself.html">Haven't Been Myself</a></b></i>". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This is the kind of band whose debut far outshines half the music on the market today. <b>Too Close To Touch</b> have a steady following that grows everyday. We dare you to listen to this band and not find something to like. Whether it be the music, the lyrics, or the band itself, <b>TCTT</b> are definitely a band to watch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Their debut single, "<i>The Deep End</i>" wowed listeners, and set the stage for their self titled debut EP. Less than six months later, the band dropped their debut album, "<b><i><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2015/06/too-close-to-touch-nerve-endings-review.html">Nerve Endings</a></i></b>", which improved upon the band's debut. Atmospheric post hardcore was elevated to a new level, and <b>TCTT</b> set the bar high for their fellows. Not many bands can release a debut with high quality production and superior writing skills. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">Though the band have been playing music since 2008, and then came together in 2012, they didn't officially form the band we know today until 2013. They</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> flew under the radar until signing to <b>Epitaph Records</b> in 2014 for their debut EP. <b>Epitaph</b> had been, at the time, the only major label of the alt. music scene without an act to compete with the likes of <b>Hands Like Houses </b>or<b> Dance Gavin Dance </b>(heavy weights in the "alt-core scene". Signing <b>Too Close To Touch</b> was the right move for all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Music stems from emotion and purpose. You won't find filler tracks, every track of every release has at least one or two verses gushing with emotions. That is Keaton Pierce's strength. His ability to convey raw emotion and power with his lyrics and vocals. Like Trenton Woodley, using unclean vocals as a climax for lyrics as opposed to just using them to give the music an extra edge. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The two collaborations the band have done are solid, one standing out more so than the other. "<i>Hell to Pay</i>" was a sneak peek at "<b><i>Haven't Been Myself</i></b>", though no one knew that at the time. It's melodic, anthemic, and features guest vocals from Telle Smith of <b>The Word Alive</b>. The song has since become a fan favorite, and a staple at live shows. The ebb and flow of the song is only surpassed by the chemistry between Smith and Pierce. Smith provides harsher growls and uncleans, while Pierce lets his voice shine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On future records, it would be interesting to see if the band could dial back on Pierce's voice, just a little. We got previews of some of the slick guitar lines guitarist Mason Marble and Thomas Kidd can provide. Solos are always ear pleasers. All the band's songs are undercut with electronics, and weightless piano melodies. Again, taking obvious cues from <b>Hands Like Houses</b> and even <b>The 1975</b> (when it comes to the electronics), <b>Too Close To Touch</b> give us a medley of musical genres that creates their unique sound. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We really can't say enough about this band, or the amazing work they've done these past 3 or so years. Support the band and buy their latest album, "<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/havent-been-myself/id1133008755"><b><i>Haven't Been Myself</i></b></a>" because it's worth the $10 and then some. A warning, have tissues ready when you listen to "Eiley". You will tear up. And if by some miracle you don't, we can't help you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This band comes highly recommended for fans of <b>Dance Gavin Dance, Hands Like Houses, I the Mighty </b>and newer<b> Bring Me The Horizon. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Recommended tracks (as if we can be that decisive): "<i>The Deep End", "The Air in Me", "Hell to Pay", "Restless", "Sympathy", "<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/08/too-close-to-touch-crooked-smile-single.html">Crooked Smile</a>", "<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/07/too-close-to-touch-what-i-wish-i-could.html">What I Wished I Could Forget</a>", "Miss Your Face", </i>and the crown jewel "<i>Eiley</i>". </span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-34678665619857885122016-10-07T21:00:00.000-04:002016-10-07T21:00:27.555-04:00We Came as Romans - "Wasted Age" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>SharpTone Records</b> brought back the heavy <b>We Came as Romans</b> everyone has been asking for since their last album. Thank the rock gods! The future looks bright as they balance their alt. rock and electronic with their classic metalcore. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To buy the new single on iTunes click the following (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/wasted-age/id1158244671?i=1158245434">link</a>). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After the washout that was the band's self titled album, it's nice to see <b>We Came as Romans</b> haven't lost their touch. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Opening with a groove heavy guitar and bass intro, the song shifts into something reminiscent of "</span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Regenerate</i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">". The very heavy, fast paced verse with Dave Stephen's growling voice. A little hardcore punk never hurt anyone. We see he's doing more of his gruffer, more gnarled style of vocals. There are moments of his deeper, more traditional metal style uncleans, but this feels right for the song.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Kyle Pavone's voice is layered under light effects, echoing early work from the band. Along with bouncy electronic undertone, the chorus is a strong throwback to the band's debut "<i><b>To Plant A Seed</b></i>". Just without the unneccessary auto tune. There are just enough effects to keep things interesting, but not enough that the song gets squeaky and annoying. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The pace of the song is especially fast for a <b>WCAR</b> track, similar to songs on "Tracing Back Roots" and their self titled record. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The breakdown shows off the band's modern metal influences, which contributes to the quick pace. Groove metal needs to be quick, otherwise things can get muddled or draw out. So the band hit the mark on the breakdown. It's the opposite of chuggy and monotone. The verses do get a little flat, and the vocals get a little lost right before the chorus, but otherwise no complaints. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> - </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Touches on nu metal, but 100% <b>We Came As Romans</b>. That's the song in a nutshell. The song is everything that the band's self titled album wasn't. Heavy, catchy, and an even balance of the old and new. Not ground breaking or anything new, but fun for sure. Everyone needed this, the band included. Not exactly a return to form, as this song would feel right at home on "<i><b>Tracing Back Roots</b></i>" but it's a step in the right direction for a band whose experimental style turned off so many. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Rating</u> - 8 to 8.5/10</b></span></div>
cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-90391217516472047942016-09-28T21:00:00.000-04:002016-09-30T20:56:12.879-04:00Too Close To Touch - "Haven't Been Myself" Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you only listen to one album this year, make it this album. <b>Too Close To Touch</b> knock this out of the park, and then some. Should NASA do another one of those "send Earth shit into space for some alien race to find" let's make sure this album is on that capsule. Words can't express how incredible this album is. <b>TCTT</b> set the bar high for themselves on album one, and on album two they surpass it with plenty of leeway. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/havent-been-myself/id1133008755">link</a>) to buy the album on iTunes. And catch them on tour this fall with <b>Crown the Empire. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This album's alternate title might as well have been "Catharsis". Because that is the theme of this record. Keaton Pierce works his way through his pain and sadness as the album progresses. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The haunting album was written after Pierce lost his three year old sister, the titular "<i>Eiley</i>" on the closing track. This album represents all the raw emotions he has felt, and will continue to feel. As dark and at times depressing as the songs may seem, they’re beautiful at the same time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>TCTT</b> mixes their brand of alt. rock with some mainstream rock to give us a catchy and introspective record. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The atmospheric quality from their debut is again the underlying theme throughout.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Again, can you believe these guys are only on their second album?</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band have tightened everything, and brought us another knock out album. It’s hard to believe they’re only on their sophomore effort. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As in the past, the band draw many comparisons to fellow alt. rock, post hardcore masters </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Hands Like Houses</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. There are strong differences between the two bands (such as </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">HLH’s</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> strength in their rhythm section and creating contrast between their verses and choruses) but its in the similarities that we find </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">TCTT</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> growing. This album is darker, and more personal. There’s no sophomore slump for this band, they’re still going strong.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We’ve praised Pierce’s voice before, and we’ll do it again. He’s got the vocal chops of a more seasoned frontman, and the skills of a veteran of the field. Comparable to Brent Walsh of<b> I the Mighty</b> and Trenton Woodley of <b>Hands Like Houses</b>. Pierce knows when to use unclean vocals to push the emotion behind the lyrics forward. Rather than clutter songs with growls and screams, he utilizes the raw power and emotion to bring out the best of the song. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Track by Track Review -</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>1. Sympathy - 8/10</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Too Close To Touch’s</b> album starts with an emotional roller coaster in the form of “Sympathy”. The highs and lows of Keaton Pierce’s voice will take you for an incredible ride. The heavily muted guitar and bass work during the verses lets Pierce’s voice shine, while the drum provides a strong beat. He adds touches of unclean vocals here and there. The song is a great way to start the album. Not too safe, and a perfect example of the band’s growth from their debut. It is the sequel to “<i>Hell to Pay</i>” in the sense it has the about the same level of emotion and flow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>2. “<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/08/too-close-to-touch-crooked-smile-single.html">Crooked Smile</a>” - 8.5/10</b> (Click link to read full review)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>3. “<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/07/too-close-to-touch-what-i-wish-i-could.html">What I Wished I Could Forget</a>” - 9/10 </b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">(Click link to read full review)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>4. Translate - 8/10</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The way this song starts you’d never guess how anthemic it would turn out to be. Pierce’s light voice is undercut by a huge intro. Building up only to be brought back by his voice again. But that chorus breathes more than just life into the song again. “Translate” is as close to a "filler" track you'll find on this record. It is the weakest, but that means nothing coming from a band like this. It would have been better suited for their debut, as it isn't as polished as its brethren. That being said, it is still a solid track. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>5. “Miss Your Face” - 10/10 </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you don’t cry listening to this song then you should get your eyeballs checked. This song will bring out the feels in anyone, even the toughest of us. Pierce sings about the loss of his sister, and all the things he regrets about her passing. How he’ll never see her face again, how she’ll never grow up and see the world, and then laments about his sadness in general. This is about as raw as an artist can get. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>6. The Art of Eye Contact - 7.5 to 8/10 </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A more electronic track, it’s nice to see the band bring out the usually background effects to the forefront. The opening verse could have been taken from <b>Issues</b>’ most recent album. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The strongest aspects of the song are actually in the R&B verses. It's easy to imagine this track on </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">twenty one pilots' </b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">"</span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><i>Blurryface</i></b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">", or on </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Bring Me the Horizon's</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><b>That's the Spirit</b></i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">". </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Gotta love the intimate vibes from the R&B rooted vocals</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">. Only Pierce doesn’t come off as a cocky douchebag. He’s sincere and soft spoken. Clearly one of the more experimental tracks of the record, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. There are moments that would have benefitted from edgier guitars or a stronger bass line. That said, the placement as the middle track is key, acting as breathing space for the listener. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">7. Modern Love Affair</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">- 8/10</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A peaceful intro is a hallmark of <b>TCTT</b> music. This song is comparable to "Sinking So Long" or "Someday" from their debut. The track has strong R&B influences, particularly in the verses. The steady drum beat seems to be Pierce's heartbeat, as he belt soft spoken lyrics about being trapped in a cycle of hopeless love. Yet the song has a strong sense of hope. Despite the seemingly pointless cycle of pain Pierce and his lover are trapped in, he holds out hope that they'll be able to move past this and grow. Another cathartic moment for the singer, accompanied by a edgier guitar. The emotions and instruments spike during the bridge, another hallmark of <b>TCTT</b> music. The transition from the bridge to the chorus is seemless, perfectly timed and impactful. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">8. Inside Voices</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">- 8/10</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One thing you have to love about this band is how well they utilize pianos and electronics. The opening verse is built of just Pierce's voice, a melodic piano and those signature atmospheric effects. The song is fairly close to being classified as a "filler" song, but that lead guitar line after the chorus saves it. We have yet to see any standout moments for guitarists Mason Marble and Thomas Kidd, but on this track they shine. In the future, we wouldn't mind some more of those guitar solos. Melding into Pierce's woeful voices as he laments about not having a voice, this song elevates things to a new level for the band. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>9. What A Shame - 8/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Another one of the band's heavier tracks, at least as far as TCTT music goes. But along with those heavier guitars and bass, there's also a stronger electronic presence. With those electronics, you get some more alternative influences. Again from R&B, and modern rock. As well as from <b>The 1975</b> and even<b> Bring Me The Horizon</b>. As a song written about regrets and self reflection you can be damn sure there are some truly emo moments. The angsty and frustration coming off Pierce's voice are new, as most of the album up till now has had a "sad" vibe. The song shines and brings some light into an otherside dark album (though the subject matter is still fairly dark). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>10. For Your Sake - 8.5/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Did we mention how much we love the band's use of piano? We're saying it again, because this track makes the best use of pianos. The intro is built around the piano melody. As for the rest of the song, we can't say enough. The at times distant guitar combination gives the song a "haunted" quality we saw on tracks like "The Air In Me" and "Until I Collapse" from the band's debut. Nice to see them bringing in some familiar details. And then there's the guitar solo, which at this point is just icing on the cake.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>11. Eiley - 10/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We said<i> "Miss Your Face"</i> was about as raw as a song can get. We were wrong, this song outshines all others. It's the climax of all Pierce's emotions, and he releases them in the form of frustrated screams. Listen, or even just read the lyrics. But you'll get the full impact from listening. Pierce lets everything go, and we can only imagine how cathartic the process of writing and recording this track could have been. The bridge is his vocals and minimal effects backing him. You can also taste the tears he must have been shedding while performing this track. Live, we'd be willing to bet that the audience would be balling their eyes too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> -</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Too Close To Touch </b>have learned from the mistakes of their first album (and there weren't many mistakes), and provided a sublime listening experience. From the powerful single, “<i>What I Wish I Could Forget</i>” to the album's crowning achievement, "<i>Eiley</i>", there’s a solid balance of the old and new. The band have not given up quality, nor have they given up their individuality.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Two records into their career, and these guys are clearly just getting started. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You really can't beat "<i>Eiley</i>", as the song is one of the most incredible pieces of music you'll ever listen to, period. Other noteworthy tracks include: "<i>What I Wished I Could Forget</i>", “<i>Crooked Smile”, “Miss Your Face”, </i>and <i>"For Your Sake</i>" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Average Rating</u> - 8.5/10</b></span></span></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-46941392273778469792016-09-27T20:00:00.000-04:002016-09-27T20:00:13.587-04:00Featured Post - A Day to Remember<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One of the pioneer's of "easycore" <b>A Day to Remember </b>released their 6th album, "<i><b>Bad Vibrations</b></i>" earlier this month. The band are in top form, and have given listeners a strong reminder why they're a headlining act. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Click this (<a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/09/a-day-to-remember-bad-vibrations-review.html">link</a>) to read our review of the band's latest album, "Bad Vibrations". To get their album on iTunes click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/bad-vibrations-deluxe-edition/id1118511694">link</a>). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Emerging in the mid 00s, <b>A Day to Remember</b> are a staple of modern pop punk and metalcore. The band's sound fluctuates between the two genres, sometimes combining them. Where they the first band to do the whole "easycore" mashup? Probably not, but they were one of the first groups to modernize it into what it is today. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>ADTR</b> have been known for their mix of metal and pop punk. More recent albums have shown moves toward post hardcore and alt. rock, but they can still mosh with the best of them. Songs like "<i>Right Back at it Again</i>" and "<i>All Signs Point to Lauderdale</i>" show these Ocala born boys haven't lost their fun and, at times, carefree touch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">See theirs is an example of how pop punk bands should change overtime. Don't try and relive their "glory" days, take what you've learned and improve upon it.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> </span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">ADTR</b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"> haven't lost their touch, or their loyal fans. Their more muscular, harder pop punk, that drifts closer to the hard rock spectrum, is what we love. And they haven't abandoned that sound. They've improved upon it. Which is what all artists should do. Sometimes, rather than reinvent the wheel, you just improve the foundations. And as a result, no matter what year or what era, you will always find at least one track to love on every one of <b>ADTR's</b> album. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Frontman Jeremy McKinnon's voice has only grown stronger with time, something that hasn't happened for many screamers. Oli Sykes is a perfect example of how one's voice can deteriorate if you don't take care of it correctly. McKinnon remains one of the strongest unclean vocalists, able to shift from deeper, guttural screams to more of a hardcore punk dry scream. Might not make sense, but trust us, McKinnon is on top of things. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As for his clean vocals, those are the real highlights of the band's sound. His voice has matured along with the band's overall sound. Just listen to an early track like </span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">"The Danger in Starting a Fire" </i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">and then compare it to "<i>Naivety</i>". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Recommended tracks for first time listeners include but are not limited to: "<i>Heartless", "The Danger in Starting a Fire", "I'm Made of Wax...", "NJ Legion Iced Tea", "All Signs Point to Lauderdale", "Sometimes I'm the Hammer...",</i><i> "Paranoia", </i>and<i> "Naivety". </i></span></div>
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-68325608308246997002016-09-04T20:00:00.000-04:002016-09-05T09:39:11.850-04:00A Day to Remember - "Bad Vibrations" Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>A Day to Remember's </b>new album is finally here! Ready? Well then get ready. This album delivers on the band's promise to make this their heaviest in years. They're heading back to their humble beginnings, and cranking out that familiar gritty, grimy punk rock we all knew back in 2005. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/bad-vibrations-deluxe-edition/id1118511694">link</a>) to buy "<i><b>Bad Vibrations</b></i>" on iTunes</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This album is essentially a nod to the band's metalcore, hardcore and punk roots. While on "<b><i>Common Courtesy</i></b>" <b>A Day to Remember</b> mixed varying levels of hard rock, pop punk and hardcore together to give their sound a modern feel, this album sees the band returning to their earlier years and picking up where they left off. This feels more like a direct sequel to "<b><i>For Those Who Have Heart</i></b>", as opposed to the follow up to "<b><i>Common Courtesy. </i></b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The album's organic, rough feel is very welcoming, as if you're in the studio with the band as they record each track. Everything is brought back to square one, and that's what makes this album shine. The record also saw Jeremy McKinnon taking a step away from the production side of the process, and allowing producer Bill Stevenson to handle the bulk of the work. It really shows in the end product. McKinnon's production style, evident even on other albums he's done, is a bit more modern and polished. Here, the band more or less give us a "live" performance full of raw distortion and uncut growls. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lyrically this album is all over the map. McKinnon bares his demons for all to see, belting out verses and choruses about stress, judgement, regrets, and change. At this point in the game, the guys don't appear to even be trying, they're songs are (from a lyrical) standpoint, stronger than ever. It's straightforward enough that you don't have to wrack your brain trying to understand the "deeper" meaning, but not so much that it's like getting hit in the face with a wet fish. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Track by Track Review</span></u> - </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>1. <a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/06/a-day-to-remember-bad-vibrations-single.html">Title Track</a> - 8/10 (Click link to read full review)</b></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">2. <a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/03/a-day-to-remember-paranoia-single-review.html">Paranoia</a> - 8.5 to 9/10 (Click link to read full revie</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">w)</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>3. Naivety - 8.5 to 9/10</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Good ol' 90s punk meets <b>ADTR</b>. The bell rings give the song a bit of an alt/indie rock vibe, but don't be alarmed. This is pure pop punk, without a single doubt. It's one of the best tracks of the year, let alone the album. The song's all about losing one's innocence, as you'd expect based on the title. The best part about the track is that it's free of all the cheese that came with "<i>Right Back at it Again</i>". Just a couple of guys playing one kick-ass track. A throwback to <b>Sum 41 </b>and<b> Green Day's</b> early days, while still within the realm of <b>ADTR</b> pop punk. You'll have "<i>Naivety</i>" stuck in your head for days. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>4. Exposed - 8/10 </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One of the heaviest tracks the band's produced in years. You have to appreciate the band trying to return to their hardcore roots. It can get a little muddled with all the chugging. However, the track undoubtedly fun. And lyrically the band are attacking politicians, so what's not to love about that. McKinnon mixes his typical deep, throaty growls with a more half-screamed style for certain parts of the track. "<i>Exposed</i>" is full of breakdowns and lots of open chord chugs. A must have track for those fans of <b>ADTR's</b> heavier material. Let there be circle pits and walls of death everywhere as we all scream "No war, no peace!!!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>5. Bullfight - 7.5 to 8/10</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Now it's time to do a complete 180, and switch from the heavy, classic metalcore track "<i>Exposed</i>" to the lighter and more intricate "<i>Bullfight</i>". The song is this album's "<i>Sometimes You're the...</i>", mixing post hardcore with <b>ADTR's</b> brand of pop punk. The verse starts off fairly muted before the chorus brings a spark of energy. Not as much as one might have expected, but fear not. The post chorus breakdown is just what listeners needed. The following verse is far more lively and powerful. The softer moments in "<i>Bullfight</i>" shift gears towards modern rock. But the heavy moments bring the hardcore side of the band full force (like the breakdown which is going to be an insane time during live performances). It's a solid track, albeit a little monotonous but still solid. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Heavy as fuck and anthemic as "<i>All I Want</i>". The song shows off ADTR's ability to pump hardcore life into an otherwise melodic rock song. The heavily chugged riff driving the song leaves a little to be desired, as it seems the easy way out for the band. It doesn't take much effort to write something in open chords and chug your way through an entire verse. It's fun, but seeing as ADTR have set a certain standard for themselves, we're a little let down. There's also a strong contrast between the track's light and heavy sides, leaving "Reassemble" feeling, ironically enough, disconnected from itself. The ending in particular leaves one wanting another verse of chorus. The song is blasted through with strong metalcore chugs, and then just fades out? Like watching the Sopranos' finale (anyone who knows the show or pop culture knows what we're talking about)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>7. Justified - 7/10</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Justified" capitalizes on that contrast the band are so good at delivering. Pop punk shines for the melodic and rhythmic chorus, where the verses are hard and heavy. The track transports you back to 2005 and 2007, to the band's early years when they were still finding their sound. It's like the band weren't sure how heavy or light to go on this one, so they just split it up 50/50. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>8. We Got This - 8.5 to 9/10</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Originally planned for "Common Courtesy" the band passed on the track as they weren't happy with the end result. Flash forward two years, and the band bang whatever imperfections it may have had to give us one of their best songs yet. Showing off the band's softer side, the song hits home; <i>hard</i>. The upbeat chorus will give you chills, and if it doesn't you should probably see a doctor. The song's basically about being misunderstood. "<i>To anyone who's alone in a crowded room, put your hands up high sing out of tune</i>" is most definitely be one of our "Featured Lyrics". The song is mainstream friendly, modern pop punk at its best, and has the potential to breakthrough radio barriers. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>9. Same About You - 8/10</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Remember the intro to "<i>The Danger in Starting the Fire</i>"? Well imagine the intro to that track mixed with alt. rock and R&B. That's pretty much how "Same About You" starts. The song is different enough where it counts. The chorus remains strong in the band's usual pop punk style. The verses break things up and provide something new for listeners. Think <b>Set It Off </b>meets <b>ADTR</b> during the first verse and the beginning of the chorus. It's still heavy enough to please most <b>ADTR</b> fans. The real treat and surprise is the guitar solo and ensuing breakdown. Both could have been ripped off one of<b> Black Veil Brides'</b> early albums, which isn't nearly as bad as it sounds. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">10. Turn Off the Radio - 7.5/10</span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A garbled intro shouldn't put you off this song. As soon as the wailing guitar starts you know you're in for a down and dirty performance. Pure <b>ADTR</b> hardcore, a companion piece for "<i>My Life For Hire</i>" or "<i>Sometimes You're...</i>". This is another track that was intended for "<b><i>Common Courtesy</i></b>", but the band passed on. McKinnon's voice seems to have regressed back to 2007 for this track, hitting those high notes like he did with his pre-pubescent (at least that's what it sounds like) voice. Everything about this song reminds one of the band's early music. A well blended mix of pop punk and hardcore, especially during the chorus. A faster tempo would have made this song an 8/10 instead of a 7.5, because by the time the final chorus rolls around things have gotten a bit sluggish. Melodic may be another way to putting it, but there's a fine line between melodic and slow. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>11. Forgive and Forget - 8.5/10</b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The perfect way to close the album. It's a love ballad of the highest caliber. Not cheesy, perfectly mixing <b>ADTR</b> style rock with R&B and mainstream rock. The orchestration surpasses anything we could have imagined the band would craft. McKinnon lets all walls down for the chorus, and we can totally see him wearing an open white shirt and pants combination singing this track on a hillside or beach. The bridge brings the song from a 5 to a 8 on the volume setting, which is where things remains for the remaining minute of the song.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A stellar mix of old and new, heavy and light, modern and classic.<b> A Day to Remember</b> had already set the bar pretty high. And yet they still somehow managed to blow past the bar, and soar into the stratosphere and then lower orbit around the earth on this album. A huge improvement from "<i><b>Common Courtesy</b></i>" and a callback to the band's early years, there's something for everyone. <b>ADTR </b>have perfected their sound, now all they need to do is fine tune some of the technical aspects. If things keep progressing the way they are, album 7 will blow everyone's minds. We couldn't be happier with this release, and hope you are too. Actually the only complaint we have is there aren't any of <b>ADTR's</b> fun titles like "<i>I'm Made of Wax Larry..." </i>or<i> "The Plot to Bomb the Panhandle</i>". </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Favorite Tracks</u> - </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">You can't beat the album's lead single, "<i>Paranoia</i>", which is in a league all its own. And the title track adds a new layer of intensity and anxiety to the band's music that was never so prevalent before. Close runners up include: "<i>Naivety</i>", "<i>We Got This</i>" and "<i>Forget and Forgive</i>". </span></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-87598953546626034032016-09-02T20:00:00.000-04:002016-09-02T20:00:13.591-04:00All Time Low - "Take Cover" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Any self-respecting <b>All Time Low</b> fan knows the band will be releasing their second DVD, the much anticipated sequel to 2010's "<b><i>Straight to DVD"</i></b> next week. Well surprise, they also hit fans with a new track off their upcoming live CD. A fully polished and produced single that gears the band toward their next album. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To preorder "<b><i>Straight to DVD 2: Past, Present and Future Hearts</i></b>" click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/straight-to-dvd-ii-past-present/id1130092637">link</a>).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The "<b><i>Future Hearts</i></b>" era of <b>All Time Low </b>is coming to a close. No doubt the band will release more new material within the next year or so. What can you expect in the near future (get it?), more of the same or something new? </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This single, "<i>Take Cover</i>" gives you a fairly good idea of what's to come.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>ATL</b> have done it all. They've gone through a "legit", home brewed, DIY phase. Then there was the slightly more mature, still a bunch of immature dudes wearing jeans that are too tight for them phase. And of course their breakthrough years, before transitioning into sellout, over produced, mainstream pop punk phase. A quick turn around brought them to the make amends, back to our roots phase, and finally last year's "let's try and come off deep and mature by writing really slow, acoustic songs" phase. The next phase... let's call it the band's "We don't even know anymore" phase. That's what it feels like, the band don't know what they're doing anymore. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">"<i>Take Cover</i>" seems to show how the band are leaning on their acoustic and experimental tendencies. Did they write this at the same time <b>Tonight Alive </b>wrote "<i>Drive</i>"? Both are virtually interchangeable. Both relying on ska and reggae to a point that the songs are almost laughable. Thankfully the chorus is the only part of the song to showcase those vibes. Because it's so cheesy, especially the refrain of "<i>take cover, take cover</i>" with the cliche "ohs". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Clearly <b>ATL</b> are going for this mellowed out, relaxed atmosphere but it doesn't really work where it needs to.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The verses are tight and well done. Rhythmic and paced, with subtle electronics and a great guitar melody. Alex Gaskarth gives us one of his more alt. rock oriented vocal performances. Then comes the chorus. You'd think that the verse was a build up to a powerful anthemic chorus. You'd be very, very wrong. The quick drum fill deceives you, because the only thing that comes after is slow and sluggish. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> -</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Some bands get better with time. All Time Low doesn't appear to be one of those bands. Like so many pop punk acts that have come before them, it appears ATL have finally run out of material and are just going through the motions at this point. Their latest single, "Take Cover" is a weak song at best. Are we being a little harsh since our standards are so high? Yes, because we expect more out of a seasoned band like this. Here's to hoping ATL pull it together for album 7. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Rating</u> - 6 to 6.5/10</b></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-77907554906666841132016-08-30T20:00:00.000-04:002016-08-30T20:00:38.595-04:00Sum 41 - "War" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The hype just keeps growing as we get closer and closer to the release date of <b>Sum 41's </b>comeback album. The band already proved they can hold their own against contemporary bands, now let's see if they can hold our attention with their newest single, "<i>War</i>". </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To preorder the album, and instantly get singles, "<i><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/07/sum-41-fake-my-own-death-single-review.html">Fake My Own Death</a></i>" and "<i>War</i>" click the following (link). </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If it was a competition between <b>Green Day's </b>"<i>Bang Bang</i>" and this song, <b>Sum 41 </b>win everyday, all day. The two are call-to-arms battle songs, and this one stands out for its unorthodox methods. Rather than an outright fight song about battling politicians and "the man", "<i>War</i>" focuses on one's inner demons. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Deryck Whibley</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> no doubt wrote this song about his own demons, the very same ones that lead to his liver and kidney failure a few years back. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Why are you fighting this war? What good can come out of fighting the war? Can you actually win the war? Very simple messages, but the band sends them home as hard as they can without the song feeling too much like some kind of preachy, speech. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The song is powered by Baksh's and Thacker's combined guitar riffs. There were some doubts about the band having two lead guitarists, but the band are utilizing them to their fullest. It's nice to hear Baksh rip out some slick metal-influenced riffs amidst Thacker's more rock oriented riffing style. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And then you've got some strong drumming from newcomer Frank Zummo. Thus far, meaning on the two tracks released as of this posting date, Zummo has done a solid job of filling Steve Jocz shoes. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The slower tempo of the song lets the band put emphasis on the lyrics and the rhythms created by McCaslin's bass and the rhythm guitar. It's too gritty and fast to be called a ballad. In terms of <b>Sum 41 </b>this is a ballad. Not a ballad like "<i>Pieces</i>" but close enough. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> -</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is shaping up to be one of the best comebacks of the year. Following <b>Simple Plan, blink-182, Good Charolette</b> and more, the classic pop punk bands are taking back the scene from the upstarts (we're talking about you <b>5 Seconds of Summer</b>). <b>Sum 41</b> are back in peak form, delivering hit after hit like they're not even trying. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Rating</u> - 8 to 8.5/10</b></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-36162626047420628032016-08-29T21:00:00.000-04:002016-08-29T21:00:15.974-04:00The Color Morale - "Desolate Divine" Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>The Color Morale's</b> newest album is here! After a slew of singles, the complete album was released August 19th. After another successful stint on Warped Tour this summer, things couldn't look better for the band. The question remains: have the band grown in the two years since their last album? Or was "<b><i>Know Hope</i></b>" their peak point?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/desolate-divine/id1124254321">link</a>) to buy the album on iTunes. And don't forget to catch the band this fall with <b>Our Last Night, Hands Like Houses </b>and<b> Out Came the Wolves </b>on the "<b><i>Face to Face Tour</i></b>". Click this (<a href="http://thecolormorale.net/#anchor_tour">link</a>) to see the tour dates and buy tickets. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>The Color Morale</b> continue to move away from their original sound, melodic hardcore with strong influences from alt. rock and grunge. Their sound on album 5 dips more into those genres than metal of any kind. Don't let that mislead you, the band are still very much a "core" outfit. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /><b>TCM</b> brought in legendary producer Dan Korneff (whose production credits include <b>Pierce the Veil, The Devil Wears Prada </b>and<b> Dayshell</b>) for their 5th full length effort. Which signaled an increase in level and quality. Production on this album is tighter and cleaner than ever before. </span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"<b><i>Desolate Divine</i></b>" takes everything to a new level. The production echoes music from arena rock champions <b>Thirty Seconds to Mars.</b> That's how epic the record sounds. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />One of the strongest aspects of the album are the vocals. Frontmand Garret </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Rapp steps back to let Saunders have a more prominent role in the unclean vocals. A decision that works for the band. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Saunders' deeper unclean vocals remind listeners of earlier music from "<b style="font-style: italic;">We All Have Demons" </b>and<b style="font-style: italic;"> "My Devil in Your Eyes</b>". </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Saunders shines in his new role, though we don't many chances to revel in his voice. Anyone else want more of his vocals? Saunders voice brings back the metalcore flair the band seemingly abandoned after "</span><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><i>My Devil...</i></b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">" And seeing as <b>TCM</b> have moved closer to the alt. rock side of the post hardcore spectrum, we could use some more metal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Track by Track Review -</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>1. Lonesome Soul - 8 to 8.5/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"<i>Lonesome Soul</i>" starts the album off on a high note. The heavily distorted and chugged intro gives into a deep bassline from Mike Honson and Rapp's vocals. Who mixes his unclean vocals with his clean to give the listener a new experience. It's not quite half screams, but it's a lot grittier than Rapp's typical clean vocals. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The second verse mixes his and Aaron Saunder's vocals. The metalcore growls compliment Rapp's voice, and vice versa. But the real gem is the breakdown, which has to be one of the best the band have given. The only thing that would have really sent this song over the edge would be more unclean vocals from Rapp. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>2. Clip Paper Wings 7.5/10</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The song is fairly weak, due in part to the fact that it follows a lot of the same patterns the band followed on "<b><i>Hold on Pain Ends</i></b>". It tries to be everything; metal, alt. rock, hardcore, and every genre in-between. The clean guitar intro is great, as is the backing orchestration. But the song as a whole doesn't feel like one piece. It's like a jigsaw of parts. Gritty guitar lines, and heavy bass then a bright and powerful chorus. Maybe it's just us, but we're not completely sold on this one. It's just a little too much "hopecore", especially considering the band's last album was 24/7 "hope". The best part about the song is the lead guitar line during the breakdown/bridge. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">3. </span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><a href="http://inspiredbyreviews.blogspot.com/2016/06/the-color-morale-walls-single-review.html">Walls</a></i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">" click link to read full review - 8.5 to 9/10</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>4. Trail of Blood - 8.5/10</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">The real standout for the album is "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Trail of Blood</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">". The song mixes the melodic chugs found on "Know Hope" with the electronic and alt. rock touches from "Hold on Pain Ends". Honson comes into his own on this track, shining strong in the verses. His bass fuels most of the song's rhythm, while Steve Carrey provides another steady drum beat. Then the breakdown comes around, and Carrey shies away from most metalcore drum cliches. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>5. Version of Me - 8.5/10</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Version of Me" dips back into the alt. rock side of the band. Focusing their efforts on melody, while also mixing in some light piano, the unclean vocals from Saunders slay all other unclean vocals on the album. The chorus is about as infectious and anthemic as they come. Icing on the cake, the production on this song is first class. Devin King goes to town on his lead guitar parts, shining during the bridge and chorus. Glad to see he's also come into his own on this album. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>6. Home Bittersweet Home - 8/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">The fans wanted heavy, and the band delivered. More so on "Home Bittersweet Home" than any other track. Aside from the choruses and the bridge, the song is as heavy as it gets. The bridge adds in some "Whoas" just as a bonus. Again, the only thing that would have made this track that much stronger would be more of Saunders' unclean vocals.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;"><b>7. Misery Hates Company - 8.5/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">The song is pure alt. rock goodness until the breakdown. The band seem to take a page from Bring Me The Horizon in that they keep the instrumentals heavy, but the vocals lighter and geared to radio airwaves. The groove of the guitar riff is about as metalcore as you can get. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;"><b>8. Perfect Strangers - 7.5 to 8/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">A definite anthem for the books. Everything about this song screams arena. Unfortunately the production on this song is much more unbalanced. The distortion on the guitars during the verses obscures Rapp's vocals so bad, it's hard to discern anything. The bridge comes around, and the song gets a little muddled. Thankfully as soon as the chorus kicks in the song comes back to life. Add some unclean vocals and you've got a real hit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;"><b>9. Broken Vessel - 7.5 to 8/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">Another complete 180 for the band, they drift into <b>Emarosa </b>and<b> Dance Gavin Dance</b> territory. Drifting from hardcore to modern rock to R&B and back to alt. rock. The song is a perfect example of how the band have grown and are willing to experiment. It's not perfect by any standard, but it still has all the hallmarks of a classic <b>TCM</b> song. Sadly there aren't any unclean vocals. The outro, however, proves why the band don't need the unclean vocals to craft a hit. Rapp's soothing voice is more than enough. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;"><b>10. Fauxtographic Memory - 7.5/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">Carrey gets a little experimental with his drums on this track. Utilizing more hi-hat than in previous tracks, it suits the vibe of this song. The band don't slow down for a second, bursting out of the gate from the start. The verse has a great beat to it, one you can bounce your head to all day. Honson's bass breaks through during the bridge before the second chorus, giving us another glimpse at his skill. Strong use of orchestration is something we haven't seen from the band until this track. It's a great addition to the song, closing things on yet another high note. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;"><b>11. Keep Me in My Body - 7.5 to 8/10</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">A mix of the band's sound from "<b><i>Hold on Pain Ends</i></b>" and the band's sporadic metal from their first two albums. It's another anthem for the album's closing track. Rapp croons about having regrets and living life. Nothing new on that front, but the delivery is so powerful you can't help but be a little moved. Even just a little. He belts out lyrics that tell the listener that it's okay to not be okay. "Hopecore" rears its head again. But this time it isn't like having a ball of dirty socks shoved down your throat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The band have perfected the art of writing catchy songs. Now if they can branch out and into heavier territory. Because while we are in love with these tracks, we can't help but feel the band are still holding something back. They played it safe, and showed everyone they more than have what it takes to be a headlining act. Perhaps on album 6 The Color Morale will use this record as the building blocks for something out of this world. Right now they're stuck in the stratosphere. Thankfully they eased back on the "hopecore" a bit for this record. Because the act was getting pretty stale (it's still stale). </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Recommended for fans of <b>Our Last Night, Dance Gavin Dance, </b>and<b> The Word Alive</b>. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Favorite Tracks</u> - </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">"<i>Walls</i>", "<i>Trail of Blood</i>" and "<i>Version of Me" </i>are our top picks for this album. Other noteworthy tracks include: "<i>Lonesome Soul</i>" and "<i>Misery Hates Company</i>" </span></span><br />
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cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-69576167367083108392016-08-29T20:30:00.000-04:002016-08-29T20:30:17.095-04:00Too Close To Touch - "Crooked Smile" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A song that only adds more reason to love this band. <b>Too Close To Touch </b>are a rising power in alt. rock, and rightly so. The second single off the band's highly anticipated second album, "<b><i>Haven't Been Myself"</i></b>, proves the band didn't just luck out with their debut last March. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To buy the album and get this track, as well as first single "<i>What I Wish I Could Forget"</i> on iTunes please click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/havent-been-myself/id1133008755">link</a>). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br />The intro to this song is comparable to <b>Hands Like Houses'</b> "<i>Colourblind</i>". The rest of the song strays far enough from HLH material that the song can stand on it's own. The band stay within their comfort zone with the song's structure and the instrumentals. The groove driven song is powered by guitars and Keaton Pierce's vocals. His voice doesn't go into his "unclean" mode, but it does get pretty gritty at times.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> Pierce gives another strong vocal performance, only backing off a bit for the verses. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">The chorus is the second best part of the song. Wait, second best? Ya, the breakdowns pretty much blows the chorus away. During the aforementioned breakdown t</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">he song again takes hints from <b>HLH's</b> "</span><i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">Colourblind</i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">". It's rhythmic and groove driven. There isn't too much to say other than that. The song is golden, recalling <b>Pierce the Veil </b>circa 2010 or <b>Sleeping with Sirens </b>circa<b> </b>2011. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Summary - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This song falls a bit short of expectations, but that can be expected since we set the bar so high. It's akin to "<i>Pretty Little Thing"</i>, and <b>Hands Like Houses' </b>"<i>Colourblind</i>". It's catchy and fun. Upbeat with a powerful breakdown. Yes, a real breakdown. This album promises to be one of the standouts of the year, and <b>TCTT's</b> breakthrough to the big leagues. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Rating - 8/10</b></span></div>
cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5704815286295320055.post-52429954665531309602016-08-29T20:00:00.000-04:002016-09-04T12:16:01.069-04:00Memphis May Fire - "Carry On" Single Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOytfAjXVaxSqRULsLK0lS0M2K4yetef5RNZ1lTpx8J7BUBtjf7iATlcSKVPER7T-iaP5UdYrl4YbbrECw8UvUXnVgwtt1_YEGBt-VFRLOkkGBY90VUQI4JPCfiTKRuRpIA1f0IoRY3Vs/s1600/100000x100000-9992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOytfAjXVaxSqRULsLK0lS0M2K4yetef5RNZ1lTpx8J7BUBtjf7iATlcSKVPER7T-iaP5UdYrl4YbbrECw8UvUXnVgwtt1_YEGBt-VFRLOkkGBY90VUQI4JPCfiTKRuRpIA1f0IoRY3Vs/s200/100000x100000-9992.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Memphis May Fire</b> have spent the past year working on their 5th album. The first single, "<i>Carry On</i>", follows the standard set by last year's "<i>My Generation" </i>and<i> "Stay the Course"</i>. The band are maturing into a class act, and we look forward to hearing the full album. "<b><i>This Light I Hold</i></b>" is set to be released October 28. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">To preoder the album on iTunes click this (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/this-light-i-hold/id1145610247">link</a>).</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sticking to the combination of modern rock and metal, <b>Memphis May Fire</b> open themselves up to the masses for this song. Fusing their "down and dirty" metalcore with some hard rock and radio rock flavors, the band have seemingly hit the ground running with this new track.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The song holds enough of the "core" aspects without over doing things too much. There are chugs, there are a few short breakdowns, but there are also a few new things that we love. The intro starts with a melodic guitar from Kellen McGregor. The verse holds true to MMF style, with the lead guitar sparking energy throughout. While Matty Mullin's vocals are as deep and growling as always. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">But again, the real standout would be the lead guitar moments from McGregor. We would have loved to see more of the lead guitar in this song. Any maybe some more energetic drumming from Jake Garland. His work on the verses is sporadic as usual, and then the chorus slows down. He still leans too much on china cymbals and that double bass. It's nothing new, just standard metalcore drums. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The chorus is anthemic enough without sounding too cheesy. Yes that implies it is a bit cheesy, but then again most songs about overcoming adversity come off a little cheesy. Mullins does a solid job of selling the message without becoming a cliche of himself. Unlike on the previous album, "<b><i>Unconditional</i></b>", he isn't shoving religion down the listeners throat and ears. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Summary</u> -</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">All in all, this is a good way to start this new era of<b> Memphis May Fire</b>. Mullins ditches the overly religious lyrics for a more approachable message. The band are tighter than ever, and the only real complaint one could have is that this is a "safe" release. It's grounded firmly in the band's comfort zone, and doesn't offer anything new. But it's still one of the band's strongest songs. Recommended for fans of <b>We Came as Romans, The Amity Affliction </b>and<b> Crown the Empire</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Rating</u> - 7.5 to 8/10 </b></span></div>
cocopunk1486http://www.blogger.com/profile/12444126013693680205noreply@blogger.com