My personal favorite is this cover of This Love, sang by Brent Smith (Shinedown) and Maria Brink (In This Moment). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqxJoljLALU
Maybe it's not difficult for anyone else to find, but I am a Shinedown junkie and big ITM fan, never before have I seen this until here recently.
Personally I find this match to be perfect. Maria can scream her ass off while Brent delivers the clean vocals with his tenor.
We have to hold out hope! These two may be in a studio together before we know it! Considering they have shared a stage multiple times.
Again, this one may not be that rare, but it's still quite a gem.
A Dreve acoustic performance at a radio station of Parallel. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyqnLQsp9oc
All Shinedown fans need to hear Dreve's songs
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Things that irk me
Yes, I know, this is a music blog. Not a everything-and-the-kitchen-sink blog or a corny blog about feelings, but today I am ranting whether you like it or not so: bite me.
I hate very many things. Many, many, many, many things. Quite frankly, some of those things are people or are done by people. But you see, they are morons and they are everywhere.
One thing that REALLY irritates me, is when people can't take a hint. This also baffles me because anytime, anyone says any little thing the first thought that goes through my brain is: "Does this apply to me?"
Am I paranoid? Yes. But that doesn't change the fact that my brain cannot comprehend how so many people have STOP DOING THIS practically spelled out for them and it goes right over their heads.
These people live in a fantasy world where they can get annoyed by the way you dress but they can never possibly annoy anyone else. It's all rainbows and freaking sunshine in happy-joy-ignorance land.
For instance: when I am closed up in my room, with headphones on, loud music playing and my eyes are either closed or focused on something...this means "leave me alone". This does not mean open my door and refuse to leave until you tell me your very insignificant story about raiding a virtual base or a bear that opened a garbage can. I DON'T FUCKING CARE. Okay? I am most likely feeling like crap or I am trying to write, both of those things do not require your random tales. Actually your presence is counter-productive.
I am focusing, I do not want to watch a stupid live stream video game or a five-year-old drummer playing Master of Puppets or a performance from 19-freaking-86 that sucks duck butt. I. Don't. Care. Take a hint when I keep zoning out or reach for my iPod every time you pause or continue to stare at my computer screen longingly.
Another thing: stop telling me I am cranky in the morning.
What are you expecting? I have been this way for years, I ain't changing. Mornings are not my thing and you should shut up because you are fueling my hatred for mornings. When I am walking around as a zombie because I could have slept for another hour and the first thing I have to do is clean up a pile of dirty dishes because you couldn't be bothered to turn on the sink and rinse out your plate the night before: don't talk about my bad mood. Oh excuse me, I am absolutely thrilled to do this every damn morning, I just keep to myself because I want to rattle your cage or make you feel guilty. That is my goal, I wake up every morning with that as my mission for the day.
Screw that. Just leave me alone. That's all you have to do (since I know you won't clean up after yourself)
How many damn times do I have to tell you how long to cook popcorn for before you remember?
I have memorized the cooking time for every microwavable product in my house because I know that every time someone uses the microwave, they are going to ask me how long they should cook it. .....do you not have functioning eyes? There is directions right in front of you! You are freaking holding an instruction manual in your hand! WHY DO YOU NEED ME?! This irritates me so much because it is just pure laziness. I do not see how you have survived so many years in this world because obviously your hands are broken and you're also selectively blind. How have you managed to keep on trucking in a dog eat dog world?
Something that also irritates me: repeating myself.
I am fairly quiet, I do realize this, but this is due to the fact that any time my voices gets above a certain pitch I get yelled at for screaming in someone's ear. (Which is not productive, by the way. If my voice hurt your ear, why did you yell louder than I did? o.O)
But I digress.
It really irks me to say something five times before you hear it and YOU are the one getting mad. WTF? Here's a concept: you can't hear anymore.
Although, to a certain extent I am pretty sure I get ignored. Considering the fact that I can stand beside four people, make a statement, they glance at me but don't respond. This smells.
When you have a reaction to what I say but you say nothing back...I am being ignored.
Okay, cool. Whatever.
Needless to say I do not speak much, I just don't see the point. First I have the problem of getting a human to actually respond (which is no small task) then I must capture their attention in a conversation. Which never happens. I apparently have very different tastes and interests than everyone I am around. My conversations are usually me talking to someone ninety-miles-an-hour because I have a month's worth of speaking to do, and them just idling looking at me, being courteous enough to feign mild interest.
People are not my cup of tea, I guess.
So I have music, animals and the internet.
I am okay with this, I am not upset. (except in power outages, having a friend taken away sucks)
What I don't understand is why you want me to be in the room with you.
I don't comprehend this sudden "I miss Nixie blues".
Do you miss my lively behavior? (Sitting on the couch crossed legged) My entertaining and long conversations? (that quiet shit) My infectious demeanor? (brooding in the corner, all lonely and bored and what not) WHAT DO YOU MISS? The only thing I can imagine is guilt on your part, but you really need to understand that I am TEN TIMES HAPPIER when I am alone and doing what I want to do.
Something else I hate: long ass repetitive stories.
How many times do I have to hear about the bitchy co-worker that apparently has the world's most annoying, scratchy voice? It's not like this bitch is ever going to stop and I really see no point in you telling me every story, back logged for six months, to bring the point home for what she did today.
I HAVE THIS CHICK'S PROFILE ENGRAVED IN MY BRAIN BECAUSE I HEAR THIS CRAP FOUR TIMES A WEEK.
I also hate these macho stories. Some which have happened in your unbridled, glorious youth and some have never happened at all, but you feel the need to tell me anyway.
Look, I really couldn't care less if you want to drive a rusty metal stake through a whore's eyeball or strangle two people in your sleep or and I quote: "Fuck a mother fucker up"
Not only do I not care but these displays and stupid words and slamming your fist against things with teeth grit only makes me lose respect for you. You are acting like an utter dumbass.
If I have heard it once, I have heard it ten millions times "You just don't know. I am a crazy, crazy bitch and I will kill somebody"
You disgust me.
I have so much contempt for your moronic behavior, I walk around with pissed-ness inside of me for a hours.
Can we come to some sort of agreement where I don't have to hear anyone's "badass" stories ever again?
So I am sure someone could read this post and say I have issues or whatever. Look at all the fucks I give.
PEACE OUT
I hate very many things. Many, many, many, many things. Quite frankly, some of those things are people or are done by people. But you see, they are morons and they are everywhere.
One thing that REALLY irritates me, is when people can't take a hint. This also baffles me because anytime, anyone says any little thing the first thought that goes through my brain is: "Does this apply to me?"
Am I paranoid? Yes. But that doesn't change the fact that my brain cannot comprehend how so many people have STOP DOING THIS practically spelled out for them and it goes right over their heads.
These people live in a fantasy world where they can get annoyed by the way you dress but they can never possibly annoy anyone else. It's all rainbows and freaking sunshine in happy-joy-ignorance land.
For instance: when I am closed up in my room, with headphones on, loud music playing and my eyes are either closed or focused on something...this means "leave me alone". This does not mean open my door and refuse to leave until you tell me your very insignificant story about raiding a virtual base or a bear that opened a garbage can. I DON'T FUCKING CARE. Okay? I am most likely feeling like crap or I am trying to write, both of those things do not require your random tales. Actually your presence is counter-productive.
I am focusing, I do not want to watch a stupid live stream video game or a five-year-old drummer playing Master of Puppets or a performance from 19-freaking-86 that sucks duck butt. I. Don't. Care. Take a hint when I keep zoning out or reach for my iPod every time you pause or continue to stare at my computer screen longingly.
Another thing: stop telling me I am cranky in the morning.
What are you expecting? I have been this way for years, I ain't changing. Mornings are not my thing and you should shut up because you are fueling my hatred for mornings. When I am walking around as a zombie because I could have slept for another hour and the first thing I have to do is clean up a pile of dirty dishes because you couldn't be bothered to turn on the sink and rinse out your plate the night before: don't talk about my bad mood. Oh excuse me, I am absolutely thrilled to do this every damn morning, I just keep to myself because I want to rattle your cage or make you feel guilty. That is my goal, I wake up every morning with that as my mission for the day.
Screw that. Just leave me alone. That's all you have to do (since I know you won't clean up after yourself)
How many damn times do I have to tell you how long to cook popcorn for before you remember?
I have memorized the cooking time for every microwavable product in my house because I know that every time someone uses the microwave, they are going to ask me how long they should cook it. .....do you not have functioning eyes? There is directions right in front of you! You are freaking holding an instruction manual in your hand! WHY DO YOU NEED ME?! This irritates me so much because it is just pure laziness. I do not see how you have survived so many years in this world because obviously your hands are broken and you're also selectively blind. How have you managed to keep on trucking in a dog eat dog world?
Something that also irritates me: repeating myself.
I am fairly quiet, I do realize this, but this is due to the fact that any time my voices gets above a certain pitch I get yelled at for screaming in someone's ear. (Which is not productive, by the way. If my voice hurt your ear, why did you yell louder than I did? o.O)
But I digress.
It really irks me to say something five times before you hear it and YOU are the one getting mad. WTF? Here's a concept: you can't hear anymore.
Although, to a certain extent I am pretty sure I get ignored. Considering the fact that I can stand beside four people, make a statement, they glance at me but don't respond. This smells.
When you have a reaction to what I say but you say nothing back...I am being ignored.
Okay, cool. Whatever.
Needless to say I do not speak much, I just don't see the point. First I have the problem of getting a human to actually respond (which is no small task) then I must capture their attention in a conversation. Which never happens. I apparently have very different tastes and interests than everyone I am around. My conversations are usually me talking to someone ninety-miles-an-hour because I have a month's worth of speaking to do, and them just idling looking at me, being courteous enough to feign mild interest.
People are not my cup of tea, I guess.
So I have music, animals and the internet.
I am okay with this, I am not upset. (except in power outages, having a friend taken away sucks)
What I don't understand is why you want me to be in the room with you.
I don't comprehend this sudden "I miss Nixie blues".
Do you miss my lively behavior? (Sitting on the couch crossed legged) My entertaining and long conversations? (that quiet shit) My infectious demeanor? (brooding in the corner, all lonely and bored and what not) WHAT DO YOU MISS? The only thing I can imagine is guilt on your part, but you really need to understand that I am TEN TIMES HAPPIER when I am alone and doing what I want to do.
Something else I hate: long ass repetitive stories.
How many times do I have to hear about the bitchy co-worker that apparently has the world's most annoying, scratchy voice? It's not like this bitch is ever going to stop and I really see no point in you telling me every story, back logged for six months, to bring the point home for what she did today.
I HAVE THIS CHICK'S PROFILE ENGRAVED IN MY BRAIN BECAUSE I HEAR THIS CRAP FOUR TIMES A WEEK.
I also hate these macho stories. Some which have happened in your unbridled, glorious youth and some have never happened at all, but you feel the need to tell me anyway.
Look, I really couldn't care less if you want to drive a rusty metal stake through a whore's eyeball or strangle two people in your sleep or and I quote: "Fuck a mother fucker up"
Not only do I not care but these displays and stupid words and slamming your fist against things with teeth grit only makes me lose respect for you. You are acting like an utter dumbass.
If I have heard it once, I have heard it ten millions times "You just don't know. I am a crazy, crazy bitch and I will kill somebody"
I have so much contempt for your moronic behavior, I walk around with pissed-ness inside of me for a hours.
Can we come to some sort of agreement where I don't have to hear anyone's "badass" stories ever again?
So I am sure someone could read this post and say I have issues or whatever. Look at all the fucks I give.
PEACE OUT
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Against the 'love' shmucks
Anti-Valentines Day, WHO CARES IF WE'RE ALONE songs:
Since You're Gone - The Pretty Reckless
The sassy line "If I say 'I love you' I am a liar" pretty much sums up the attitude of this song; most likely about an Ex that really needs keep his mouth shut, because Miss Momsen is not buying his nice act.
Since You're Gone gives me the urge to sashay in a pair of heels JUST to make my (non-existent) Ex jealous. A tad bit sadistic, eh? I vote sassy all of the way with "Well, meet my lover Gin and I don't have to pretend, since you're gone"
Wicked Ways - Five Finger Death Punch
The heaviest piece here, Wicked Ways is a perfect song to listen to when pissed off and one can vent frustration through it.
I suspect this song was written more about a gold-digger, but it can pertain to a vast array of personal subjects.
"You'd say anything to get anywhere in life" *insert the name of whom you thought of from those lyrics* wouldn't it be lovely to just tattoo that on said person's forehead?
See chorus: "You've got an evil wicked way of saying I love you, I'd love to: Tear away from everything you are; you've got an evil wicked way about you, I hate you"
I do not have to tell you that the music (drums especially) is fantastic, a musical ensemble of SCORNED
Made of Stone - Evanescence
As usual for me, Evanescence created a song that can be my anthem.
Amy Lee draws us in while singing with restrained angst "Speak your mind, like I care. I can see your lips moving, I just learned not to hear", then she lets the emotion go, freeing the frustration and venting out "It's never enough for you, baby! Don't want to play your games anymore, no matter what you say. I'm all out of love for you, baby. And now that I've tried everything, I'll numb the pain 'til I made of stone"
I'll admit that I have sang this aloud while sauntering about haughtily....it's THERAPY, PEOPLE.
Overall Made of Stone is a masterpiece; Troy McLawhorn and Terry Balsamo truly shine in this song, as they give it just the right amount of spice at certain moments (please take advantage of these moments with a nice hair-flip)
What were you expecting? - Halestorm
For anyone that never liked Valentine's day and couldn't care less about being alone (we prefer independent) THIS SONG *headbangs* is the one for y'all
Lzzy Hale is the epitome of independent and kick-assness. The proof is in the pudding: "(I never was)
The touchy, feely, co-dependent kind. I like the feeling but I'm not on cloud nine" and "I don't need your flowers, they'll just go to waste. I don't want your candy cause I don't like the taste"
Can you say "HOLY CRAP, I COULDN'T HAVE SAID IT BETTER MYSELF, GIRL. THANK YOU" ?
This song fits the bill for any feminist and some guys will relate to this very well, as long as they aren't those weridos that refuse to relate to a female fronted song *has feminist tendencies*
I love how Lzzy's lyrics reflect this 'are you freaking kidding me right now?' attitude "What were you expecting? Another lullaby? Are you kidding? You must be high..."
Plus her screams could make a potential ex boyfriend pee in his pants...an added humiliation bonus
This concludes my Anti-love shmucks post, I think I got a little bit girly on you, but hey.
Since You're Gone - The Pretty Reckless
The sassy line "If I say 'I love you' I am a liar" pretty much sums up the attitude of this song; most likely about an Ex that really needs keep his mouth shut, because Miss Momsen is not buying his nice act.
Since You're Gone gives me the urge to sashay in a pair of heels JUST to make my (non-existent) Ex jealous. A tad bit sadistic, eh? I vote sassy all of the way with "Well, meet my lover Gin and I don't have to pretend, since you're gone"
Wicked Ways - Five Finger Death Punch
The heaviest piece here, Wicked Ways is a perfect song to listen to when pissed off and one can vent frustration through it.
I suspect this song was written more about a gold-digger, but it can pertain to a vast array of personal subjects.
"You'd say anything to get anywhere in life" *insert the name of whom you thought of from those lyrics* wouldn't it be lovely to just tattoo that on said person's forehead?
See chorus: "You've got an evil wicked way of saying I love you, I'd love to: Tear away from everything you are; you've got an evil wicked way about you, I hate you"
I do not have to tell you that the music (drums especially) is fantastic, a musical ensemble of SCORNED
Made of Stone - Evanescence
As usual for me, Evanescence created a song that can be my anthem.
Amy Lee draws us in while singing with restrained angst "Speak your mind, like I care. I can see your lips moving, I just learned not to hear", then she lets the emotion go, freeing the frustration and venting out "It's never enough for you, baby! Don't want to play your games anymore, no matter what you say. I'm all out of love for you, baby. And now that I've tried everything, I'll numb the pain 'til I made of stone"
I'll admit that I have sang this aloud while sauntering about haughtily....it's THERAPY, PEOPLE.
Overall Made of Stone is a masterpiece; Troy McLawhorn and Terry Balsamo truly shine in this song, as they give it just the right amount of spice at certain moments (please take advantage of these moments with a nice hair-flip)
What were you expecting? - Halestorm
For anyone that never liked Valentine's day and couldn't care less about being alone (we prefer independent) THIS SONG *headbangs* is the one for y'all
Lzzy Hale is the epitome of independent and kick-assness. The proof is in the pudding: "(I never was)
The touchy, feely, co-dependent kind. I like the feeling but I'm not on cloud nine" and "I don't need your flowers, they'll just go to waste. I don't want your candy cause I don't like the taste"
Can you say "HOLY CRAP, I COULDN'T HAVE SAID IT BETTER MYSELF, GIRL. THANK YOU" ?
This song fits the bill for any feminist and some guys will relate to this very well, as long as they aren't those weridos that refuse to relate to a female fronted song *has feminist tendencies*
I love how Lzzy's lyrics reflect this 'are you freaking kidding me right now?' attitude "What were you expecting? Another lullaby? Are you kidding? You must be high..."
Plus her screams could make a potential ex boyfriend pee in his pants...an added humiliation bonus
This concludes my Anti-love shmucks post, I think I got a little bit girly on you, but hey.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Love Songs: ROCK
It is Valentines day, and what better way to blog than creating a list of love songs?
....
Creating a list of angry, break up or independent songs? Well I see your point.
This V-Day I bring to you 10 ROCK love songs and, in a few days, 4 AMAZING songs for the single folks *raises hand*
I have no real guide lines or rules I want to follow; it's my damn blog and I'll put what I see fit.
The love songs:
Sorry - Buckcherry
You may think I am cheating since this song is a "declaration of love" but come on! It is, in fact a love song. It is also a song that will get you out of hot water when you screw up with someone you love "I'm sorry about all the things I said to you, and I know I can't take it back. I love how you kiss, I love all your sounds and baby the way you make my world go round, and I just, wanted to say: I'm sorry"
Wonderwall - Oasis
Let us thank Noel Gallagher for one of the best songs of 1995. Of course, we may never know if he intended it to be a love song, considering after he divorced the woman he said it was about, he changed the story. Who cares? It's a love song. Wonderwall most likely has been covered more than any other song in this list, which should hint at the sheer genuine quality of it.
"Because maybe, you're gonna be the one that saves me. And after all, you're my wonderwall"
Focus - 10 years
I am guilty of playing this song when I am lonely and maybe, just maybe, day dreaming a bit. With the lyrics: "I can't focus when I'm near you, do you notice me at all? I can't focus when I hear you, do you notice that I can't focus?" I am quite impressed that a man wrote these lyrics, (even though it is reminiscent of cheesy teenage love) Focus is poetic, as most 10 years songs are.
Nothing Else Matters - Metallica
Who would I be if I didn't include this song in my countdown?
The Promise - In This Moment ft. Adrian Patrick
A song that has some substance to the meaning and is lovely while still being completely metal.
The Promise is the reason I have a girl crush on Maria Brink (tell no one). Its amazing riffs and music, the meshing of Maria's lovely singing, desperate screaming and gentle inflections with Adrian Patrick's power house vocals and distinct tone is nothing short of a symphony of conflicted love wrapped in a metal package.
"It's haunting...this hold that you have over me, I grow so weak....I see you and everything around you fades, and I can't speak....but you can never know what it is you do to me" I particularly love the ending, the songs with a the reason, a resolution, what "The Promise" is and I'm left feeling as if I have watched an tragic opera "My promise is I will hurt you"
The Way - Egypt Central
A pure, hard rock song with a killer bass line and yes, it is no doubt a love song. This my friends, is the way a love song should be. John Fall's voice is low and *cough* smexy *cough* in the verses, The Way is mellowing as it starts and I think very visual "Here I lay, in candlelight, I'm drenched in shadows. I need a way to get it right, I lost my halo" this song is entrancing. The best part (in my opinion) is the bridge where: "I MISS YOUR VOICE, I MISS YOUR TASTE, MY CHEST FEELS HOLLOW. ANOTHER TIME, ANOTHER PLACE AND I CAN'T LET GO" is screamed.
Check it out for yourself at their YouTube page: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aLBD2dAA0U&list=UUYQd40fvc_E4-5h4ffhrZ7A&index=7
Break In - Halestorm
Here we have a more classic love song. A lovely piano composition and undaunted vocals. The thing is, if you are a Halestorm fan, you know that this song shows a side of Lzzy Hale no one has heard before.
I think that completely adds another element to it. You can tell she means what she says, she is truly in love. Break In could reduce you to tears because it is so intimate and sincere. "You let me fall apart without letting go... Then you pick up the pieces and you make me whole"
Take me away - Seether
"Take me by the hand and see beyond the lies, strip away the fences - leave me needing, leave me high"
This simple acoustic track is easy to fall in love with. Honestly, this song leaves me speechless with its perfection; my description will fall short.
Let me put it this way: Take me away is like sitting in front of a fire on a cold night. So simple, yet elegant, in a way that is unexpected and a true thing to marvel at.
Break The Spell - Daughtry
I don't care that Daughtry has gone mostly mainstream, this song has rock elements and is a fabulous song. Ladies in particular should appreciate it very much.
Excellent song writing comes into play here: "You found your way under my skin, and I'm trying not to love you, but I hate the way I keep on giving, into you, like I always do, no matter how I try, or maybe could it be, that you're the part of me, that's keeping me alive?"
Break The Spell from Daughtry's official YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fju1RKiiDbE
Not Strong Enough - Apocalyptica ft. Brent Smith
Hold your applause, please. The talent has graced your presence.
Flawless. Perfect. Pure. Realistic. Did I mention flawless?
The cellos, the drums, the vocals and the lyrics are all completely faultless and an undeniable masterpiece.
I think Not Strong Enough is the most romantic song I have ever heard while still being realistic "I'm not strong enough to stay away. What can I do? I would die without you. In your presence my heart knows no shame, I'm not blame, because you bring my heart to it's knees. And it's killing me when you're away, I want to leave and I want to stay, and I'm so confused, so hard to choose between the pleasure and the pain, and I know it's wrong and I know it's right, even if I tried to win the fight, my heart would overrule my mind and I'm not strong enough to stay away"
This is not just a "OMG I LOVE YOU, YOU FREAKING AMAZING PERSON" song or "I love the bitch but I don't like her" song either. It is struggle between emotions, there's something deep going on, the couple is troubled yet their love is too strong, it's not out of obligation, the love is still there and burning just as bright as it ever did.
Listen to Not Strong Enough yourself, I assure you, you won't regret it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5O90uzvUA4
....
Creating a list of angry, break up or independent songs? Well I see your point.
This V-Day I bring to you 10 ROCK love songs and, in a few days, 4 AMAZING songs for the single folks *raises hand*
I have no real guide lines or rules I want to follow; it's my damn blog and I'll put what I see fit.
The love songs:
Sorry - Buckcherry
You may think I am cheating since this song is a "declaration of love" but come on! It is, in fact a love song. It is also a song that will get you out of hot water when you screw up with someone you love "I'm sorry about all the things I said to you, and I know I can't take it back. I love how you kiss, I love all your sounds and baby the way you make my world go round, and I just, wanted to say: I'm sorry"
Wonderwall - Oasis
Let us thank Noel Gallagher for one of the best songs of 1995. Of course, we may never know if he intended it to be a love song, considering after he divorced the woman he said it was about, he changed the story. Who cares? It's a love song. Wonderwall most likely has been covered more than any other song in this list, which should hint at the sheer genuine quality of it.
"Because maybe, you're gonna be the one that saves me. And after all, you're my wonderwall"
Focus - 10 years
I am guilty of playing this song when I am lonely and maybe, just maybe, day dreaming a bit. With the lyrics: "I can't focus when I'm near you, do you notice me at all? I can't focus when I hear you, do you notice that I can't focus?" I am quite impressed that a man wrote these lyrics, (even though it is reminiscent of cheesy teenage love) Focus is poetic, as most 10 years songs are.
Nothing Else Matters - Metallica
Who would I be if I didn't include this song in my countdown?
The Promise - In This Moment ft. Adrian Patrick
A song that has some substance to the meaning and is lovely while still being completely metal.
The Promise is the reason I have a girl crush on Maria Brink (tell no one). Its amazing riffs and music, the meshing of Maria's lovely singing, desperate screaming and gentle inflections with Adrian Patrick's power house vocals and distinct tone is nothing short of a symphony of conflicted love wrapped in a metal package.
"It's haunting...this hold that you have over me, I grow so weak....I see you and everything around you fades, and I can't speak....but you can never know what it is you do to me" I particularly love the ending, the songs with a the reason, a resolution, what "The Promise" is and I'm left feeling as if I have watched an tragic opera "My promise is I will hurt you"
The Way - Egypt Central
A pure, hard rock song with a killer bass line and yes, it is no doubt a love song. This my friends, is the way a love song should be. John Fall's voice is low and *cough* smexy *cough* in the verses, The Way is mellowing as it starts and I think very visual "Here I lay, in candlelight, I'm drenched in shadows. I need a way to get it right, I lost my halo" this song is entrancing. The best part (in my opinion) is the bridge where: "I MISS YOUR VOICE, I MISS YOUR TASTE, MY CHEST FEELS HOLLOW. ANOTHER TIME, ANOTHER PLACE AND I CAN'T LET GO" is screamed.
Check it out for yourself at their YouTube page: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aLBD2dAA0U&list=UUYQd40fvc_E4-5h4ffhrZ7A&index=7
Break In - Halestorm
Here we have a more classic love song. A lovely piano composition and undaunted vocals. The thing is, if you are a Halestorm fan, you know that this song shows a side of Lzzy Hale no one has heard before.
I think that completely adds another element to it. You can tell she means what she says, she is truly in love. Break In could reduce you to tears because it is so intimate and sincere. "You let me fall apart without letting go... Then you pick up the pieces and you make me whole"
Take me away - Seether
"Take me by the hand and see beyond the lies, strip away the fences - leave me needing, leave me high"
This simple acoustic track is easy to fall in love with. Honestly, this song leaves me speechless with its perfection; my description will fall short.
Let me put it this way: Take me away is like sitting in front of a fire on a cold night. So simple, yet elegant, in a way that is unexpected and a true thing to marvel at.
Break The Spell - Daughtry
I don't care that Daughtry has gone mostly mainstream, this song has rock elements and is a fabulous song. Ladies in particular should appreciate it very much.
Excellent song writing comes into play here: "You found your way under my skin, and I'm trying not to love you, but I hate the way I keep on giving, into you, like I always do, no matter how I try, or maybe could it be, that you're the part of me, that's keeping me alive?"
Break The Spell from Daughtry's official YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fju1RKiiDbE
Not Strong Enough - Apocalyptica ft. Brent Smith
Hold your applause, please. The talent has graced your presence.
Flawless. Perfect. Pure. Realistic. Did I mention flawless?
The cellos, the drums, the vocals and the lyrics are all completely faultless and an undeniable masterpiece.
I think Not Strong Enough is the most romantic song I have ever heard while still being realistic "I'm not strong enough to stay away. What can I do? I would die without you. In your presence my heart knows no shame, I'm not blame, because you bring my heart to it's knees. And it's killing me when you're away, I want to leave and I want to stay, and I'm so confused, so hard to choose between the pleasure and the pain, and I know it's wrong and I know it's right, even if I tried to win the fight, my heart would overrule my mind and I'm not strong enough to stay away"
This is not just a "OMG I LOVE YOU, YOU FREAKING AMAZING PERSON" song or "I love the bitch but I don't like her" song either. It is struggle between emotions, there's something deep going on, the couple is troubled yet their love is too strong, it's not out of obligation, the love is still there and burning just as bright as it ever did.
Listen to Not Strong Enough yourself, I assure you, you won't regret it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5O90uzvUA4
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Otherwise: True Love Never Dies, album review
There are plenty of reviews for this album out there, but I find them to be overly complicated or an entire post of arse-kissing. I’m not going to try to sell you the album or turn you against it, I’m just trying to give you a rough outlook on the album, song by song.
Out of the many songs Otherwise has, many of them are less than stellar. If I am being honest, Adrian Patrick’s voice is the only reason I consider Otherwise to be a decent band. Adrian has such a complexity to his deep vibrato, in which he can sing with a tone trademarked completely by himself and his screams are never screechy or annoying. The man in talent walking.
It should be known, that I appreciate the fact that in True Love Never Dies there is a decent amount of love songs, I am a sucker for such things in rock if they are executed like a real rock song. I truly adore the lyrics in Die For You, such as “I’ll take what you give, but I won’t take it for granted” and there’s just something riveting about the way Adrian Patrick screams “Take my heart, just rip out”
Also, this album has those (I find pesky and fairly unnecessary) “breaks” or interludes that build into the upcoming song, so I won’t be giving these a review because…I don’t like them.
The first real song is Die For You. It starts off with an impressive, heavy intro and this continues with the first verse…but the chorus…is lacking. The chorus wimps out and the band starts playing this been-there-done-that-Daughtry-could-do-better-than-this tune. Then, the moment is saved when Adrian Patrick screams “So alive I’d die for you” and the chorus is over, flowing into another hard verse. Another thing I like about the verses in Die For You, is Adrian’s almost slow-rap (you probably disagree with that description).
Lighthouse….eh. This song doesn’t impress me, the music is ho-hum and so terribly lack luster I can’t think of a single compliment. This song, along with Scream Now, I Don’t Apologize (1,000 Pictures), Crimson and Full Circle can be very boring. They aren’t songs that I’ll ever put on repeat.
Don’t Be Afraid. I like this song, but it has the same illness as Die For You, the verses are really good; heavy guitar riffs and a catchy drum beat and then comes the chorus…*insert sigh here*
Vegas Girl is a classic example of a cliché rock song, and it’s songs like these that have stopped me from buying a Theory of a Deadman album, but I digress. It is really a shame, I think with a few changes to the music this song would be good. But, the lyrics here killed that chance, maimed it, buried it, and stomped on it’s grave.
Silence Reigns has received a lot of bad reviews, but honestly, it’s a good song. Otherwise’s music is at their best in Silence Reigns (nice and heavy), yes, there is still that annoying “wuss out” chorus, but it’s not to the extent of other songs. This song reminds me of Staind actually. (Also, compared to the first version of this song on another album, this version is out of the park)
Though Soldiers contains gimmicky lyrics, it is one of the best songs on True Love Never Dies, and really, I got past the lyrics quickly. It is a unique song, with diverse speeds that are not predictable and music that actually took creativity. Some people don’t like the war drums, but I think it adds a much needed element to this album as a whole.
Heaven is the only slow-tempo song here, it’s sweet and simple, a little bit more vulnerability would have been nice considering the bitter sweet topic. I suppose that was the reason for having Ashley Costello’s backing vocals, to add a certain level of timidity that Adrian can’t quite execute yet. It’s still a nice song.
Otherwise’s cover of Rolling In The Deep. This is a really good version of such an epic song. The fact that Rolling In The Deep could be done by someone other than Adele and actually be listenable tells us a lot about Otherwise. Though they aren’t quite to the level of the grand rock bands (Godsmack, Seether, Staind), they have the potential to be a solid contender for that title in the future.
True Love Never Dies probably isn’t that album that you’ll blast in the car when you need a break from the world, however I think it’s worth purchasing if you are tired of your current playlist. Plus, Amazon has been selling a digital copy of TLND for five dollars for a while now, you can’t go wrong with five bucks!
Out of the many songs Otherwise has, many of them are less than stellar. If I am being honest, Adrian Patrick’s voice is the only reason I consider Otherwise to be a decent band. Adrian has such a complexity to his deep vibrato, in which he can sing with a tone trademarked completely by himself and his screams are never screechy or annoying. The man in talent walking.
It should be known, that I appreciate the fact that in True Love Never Dies there is a decent amount of love songs, I am a sucker for such things in rock if they are executed like a real rock song. I truly adore the lyrics in Die For You, such as “I’ll take what you give, but I won’t take it for granted” and there’s just something riveting about the way Adrian Patrick screams “Take my heart, just rip out”
Also, this album has those (I find pesky and fairly unnecessary) “breaks” or interludes that build into the upcoming song, so I won’t be giving these a review because…I don’t like them.
The first real song is Die For You. It starts off with an impressive, heavy intro and this continues with the first verse…but the chorus…is lacking. The chorus wimps out and the band starts playing this been-there-done-that-Daughtry-could-do-better-than-this tune. Then, the moment is saved when Adrian Patrick screams “So alive I’d die for you” and the chorus is over, flowing into another hard verse. Another thing I like about the verses in Die For You, is Adrian’s almost slow-rap (you probably disagree with that description).
Lighthouse….eh. This song doesn’t impress me, the music is ho-hum and so terribly lack luster I can’t think of a single compliment. This song, along with Scream Now, I Don’t Apologize (1,000 Pictures), Crimson and Full Circle can be very boring. They aren’t songs that I’ll ever put on repeat.
Don’t Be Afraid. I like this song, but it has the same illness as Die For You, the verses are really good; heavy guitar riffs and a catchy drum beat and then comes the chorus…*insert sigh here*
Vegas Girl is a classic example of a cliché rock song, and it’s songs like these that have stopped me from buying a Theory of a Deadman album, but I digress. It is really a shame, I think with a few changes to the music this song would be good. But, the lyrics here killed that chance, maimed it, buried it, and stomped on it’s grave.
Silence Reigns has received a lot of bad reviews, but honestly, it’s a good song. Otherwise’s music is at their best in Silence Reigns (nice and heavy), yes, there is still that annoying “wuss out” chorus, but it’s not to the extent of other songs. This song reminds me of Staind actually. (Also, compared to the first version of this song on another album, this version is out of the park)
Though Soldiers contains gimmicky lyrics, it is one of the best songs on True Love Never Dies, and really, I got past the lyrics quickly. It is a unique song, with diverse speeds that are not predictable and music that actually took creativity. Some people don’t like the war drums, but I think it adds a much needed element to this album as a whole.
Heaven is the only slow-tempo song here, it’s sweet and simple, a little bit more vulnerability would have been nice considering the bitter sweet topic. I suppose that was the reason for having Ashley Costello’s backing vocals, to add a certain level of timidity that Adrian can’t quite execute yet. It’s still a nice song.
Otherwise’s cover of Rolling In The Deep. This is a really good version of such an epic song. The fact that Rolling In The Deep could be done by someone other than Adele and actually be listenable tells us a lot about Otherwise. Though they aren’t quite to the level of the grand rock bands (Godsmack, Seether, Staind), they have the potential to be a solid contender for that title in the future.
True Love Never Dies probably isn’t that album that you’ll blast in the car when you need a break from the world, however I think it’s worth purchasing if you are tired of your current playlist. Plus, Amazon has been selling a digital copy of TLND for five dollars for a while now, you can’t go wrong with five bucks!
Sunday, January 6, 2013
"The Words You Said"
If you've visited this blog before (or know me) then you know I am in love with emotion and songs that bring out emotion in me. So, this post is going to be a bit personal.
Here is a list of songs that just grab my heart and refuse to let go by haunting my mind where it's been engraved.
They are in no particular order because I love them so, it would be a crime to say one is better than the other.
Remember Everything - Five Finger Death Punch
Contrary to popular belief, Five Finger Death Punch doesn't write lyrics that are all about hate or go nowhere in meaning...okay, they do sometimes, but other times songs like Remember Everything occur.
This song carries so much conviction, so much shame, guilt and perception, I would be lying if I said it didn't make me cry at times when I hear it.
The opening line "Dear Mother, I love you. I'm sorry I wasn't good enough" . . .personally, a part of me dies with emotion right then and there.
There is something so triumphant when Moody sings in the bridge "You say that I'll never change, but what the f*** do you know?"
I could quote the whole song and leave you sobbing, but I shall spare you. But you definitely should listen to these lyrics at some point, if you already have and feel nothing, listen closer or get your heart checked.
Under The Water - The Pretty Reckless
I used to wonder what this song was about, the opening lyrics still leave me slightly confused, but I feel that the true meaning of the words is for the lyricist to know.
The simplicity of this song is enough to grip one's soul, with a clean beat and Taylor Momsen's vocals (no real backing vocals) the song has a pure life of its own.
It almost has a heartbeat; slow and simple, then the band delivers their music as the song progresses. Down, up, down, up, slow, fast, slow, fast...
Then, in the bridge the whole band starts playing louder and she sings "Don't let me drown in the waves. I could be found, I could be one who is saved. ....Saved, saved, saved!".
I think the reason the lyrics touch me is the fact that she doesn't sound like she's begging for someone to save her, it sounds like she's trying to convince herself that she is strong enough to save herself.
For me, this song is more about inner struggle and fighting one's own demons than it is wanting someone to swoop in and actually "be saved".
Actually I suppose that fact is obvious with "I wasn't saved from me"
Whore - In This Moment
Stop. Stop right there.
Don't you dare judge this song for its title, or try to guess its meaning. This song is the epitome of emotion. Every lyric, every cord, every sound in Whore is a work of feeling.
Pure FEELINGS.
"You probably thought I wouldn't get this far. You'd thought I end up in the back of car. You probably thought that I'd never escape, I'd be a rat in a cage, I'd be a slave to this place".
Maria Brink accentuates the words that matter more with her screams as she says "You don't know how hard I fought to survive, waking up alone when I was left to die. You don't know about this life I've led, all these roads I've walked, all these tears I've bled"
I think these lyrics speak for themselves and the way they are sang gives me cold chills.
Now for the chorus, you shall see this song isn't at all what you first imagined "I am the dirt you created. I am your sinner, I am your whore. But let me tell you something, baby, you love me for everything you hate me for"
What's this life for - Creed
This song gets a bad wrap. People say it shouldn't be on the album and that the meaning is nonsense.
I say that sentiment is nonsense.
The lyrics do touch on several different topics, perhaps that is the reason why people dislike it...but I find the lyrics moving.
"I see your soul, it's kind of gray. You see my heart, you look away. You see my wrist? I know your pain"
For me, I think the song is about the trouble's of life and the pain it produces. It sounds as if Scott Stapp is saying life was too hard for many people and they never learned what their purpose was. They'll never know because, (it sounds like) they committed suicide.
Maybe it doesn't have a resolution in some people's eyes, but I have listened to this song and asked myself "What's this life for?" either questioning the song meaning or the obvious.
Circle - Flyleaf
We probably disagree over the meaning of this song.
For you it can be about whatever you need it to be.
But for me, this song is about Jesus and his sacrifice. Especially with this "His beautiful arm, is bloody and cut off. His heart ripped out to show me he loved me, but I would not believe him, he did all that he could. I still would not believe him"
I know there are people out there that think this song is a love song. It could be, but either way you take the song it is so terribly sad.
"I left his arms empty and tied, outstretched for me until he died" Circle is one of those few songs that made me cry the first time I heard it and to this day it gives me this oddly enjoyable sinking feeling.
It is definitely, without a doubt, about someone's sacrifice for the good of someone else, as Lacey Sturm sings the last part you can hear the desperation in her voice, making it so much more emotional.
She sounds so childlike as she whispers "Forgive me, believe me. Please come back to life...."
Silhouette of a life - 10 Years
"Forced myself to sleep last night...woke up to all white"
The lyrics of this song, to me, is from the viewpoint of someone who took their own life. The idea alone is sobering and somber. If I had to explain this song I would say it is like a glass of too-cold water; it's refreshing and yet it also hurts.
The music is quiet, clean and ethereal. With an acoustic guitar and mysterious noises echoing in the background, I think I hear water running at times.
Silhouette of a Life is entrancing, dare I say, numbing. You may ask why I would include a song I describe as "numbing" on my list of most emotional songs. Maybe listening will make you understand: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9PFgNfotIA
The Last Song I'm Wasting On You - Evanescence
Yet another song that makes me cry.
The music is made up of a beautiful piano piece and undaunted vocals without any layering or distortion.
It is about an abusive relationship, but it's not about being in one it's about surviving one.
The lovely thing about it is I think anyone can take at least one line from these lyrics and apply it to their life or a friend's life.
"Sicken in the sun. You dare tell me you love me? ...But you held me down and screamed you wanted me to die...honey, you know, you know I'd never hurt you that way...you're just so pretty in your pain" right then, it's too much for me.
But these next lyrics make the song worth the tears "Run, run, run...and hate me if it feels good, I can't hear your screams anymore. You lied to me, but I'm older now and I'm not buying baby. Demanding my response, don't bother breaking the door down. I found my way out, and you'll never hurt me again"
Anyone who has been abused or knows someone who has been abused, or even been lied to or made to feel unworthy will relate to this work of art.
Layne - Staind
"I heard today, that you were gone"
This Staind song was written for the late great Layne Staley. How does one describe this song? One Hundred Percent True.
I actually just heard it for the first time, but the emotions I'm having right now tells me that Layne deserves to be in this list.
It shows how we all have heroes, Mr. Staley was a hero for the members of Staind. Even if you aren't a fan of Alice in Chains or Staind, I bet you can relate and feel something for these lyrics:
"The words you said, you made me feel like they were all for me. The words you said, they will always be a part of me. The words you said, you made me feel like I was not alone. The words you said, you gave me all the strength to carry on"
Burning Bright - Shinedown
This song I relate to the most from my list.
"I feel like there is no need for conversation. Some questions are better left, without reason." the line I love the most follows "I would rather reveal myself than my situation."
Burning Bright is about ignoring the way you feel inside, ignoring the darkness/loneliness/pain (be what it may) and acting like everything is fine. There's no reason to talk about your issues.
"The more the light shines through me, I pretend to close my eyes. The more the dark consumes me, I pretend I'm burning, burning bright.."
Songs that I relate to move me the most, so when someone sings about putting on a façade for everyone's good or perhaps for denial, I can't help but stop and 'breathe' the song in.
Lyrics that become a friend because you have so much in common, are the reason I adore music so much.
"There's nothing ever wrong, but nothing's ever right" *insert heartbreaking here*
This song deserves a link, please watch it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SO2QId331PE
There it is, my personal diary of songs. I hope you find them as moving as I do.
P.S. I apologize for saying "to me", "for me" and "I" too many times than can be deemed necessary in this post.
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