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Powerstars 06-20-2013 09:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Trollheart (Post 1334501)
Yeah. Look at it again:

Valentine told me who's to go
Feelings he's treasured most of all
The teachers and the football star
It's in his tiny face
It's in his scrawny hand
Valentine told him so
He's got something to say, it's Valentine's Day
The rhythm of the crowd,
Teddy and Judy down


Makes sense really.

No, I just said that Love is Lost was the track that stood out to me the most, which is why I was surprised you said it wasn't memorable at first. It was the first track on the album where I really sat up and said OOH YEAH!

Okay, I understand. For me, that was "The Stars (Are Out Tonight)"

Powerstars 06-21-2013 12:49 PM

Okay, so I wanna review an album outside the Rock genre. The question is, which album? I want you guys to suggest things. You don't need to send it to me, I'd just like some suggestions. Genres I like include...

-Ambient
-Anime
-Blues
-Breakbeat
-Breakcore
-Dubstep
-DnB
-Grime
-House
-Nu Jazz
-Psychedelia
-Trap
-J-Pop/J-Rock
-K-Pop
-New Wave
-Among others

Expect a new review sometime this week.

Powerstars 06-22-2013 09:29 PM

The Song Overthinker - "What Makes You Beautiful" by One Direction
http://www.slimber.com/gallery/image...ion-symbol.jpg
You don't kno-o-o-ow
You don't know you're beautiful
That's what makes you beautiful

Disclaimer: I don't like One Direction at all.

So wait. In this song, the vocalist explains that the reason his love interest is attractive is because she doesn't know she's attractive, but, as he's telling her she's attractive, she now knows this fact, thus not attractive anymore. I don't know. The whole thing is a paradox.


Okay, really, this is filler until I can find a decent album to review. I had this thought for a while and decided to let it out in a funny way. Peace.

Trollheart 06-23-2013 04:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Powerstars (Post 1335339)
The Song Overthinker - "What Makes You Beautiful" by One Direction
http://www.slimber.com/gallery/image...ion-symbol.jpg
You don't kno-o-o-ow
You don't know you're beautiful
That's what makes you beautiful

Disclaimer: I don't like One Direction at all.

So wait. In this song, the vocalist explains that the reason his love interest is attractive is because she doesn't know she's attractive, but, as he's telling her she's attractive, she now knows this fact, thus not attractive anymore. I don't know. The whole thing is a paradox.


Okay, really, this is filler until I can find a decent album to review. I had this thought for a while and decided to let it out in a funny way. Peace.

Yeah I claim the same disclaimer BUT I think what the lyric means is that she's one of those girls who is beautiful without trying, who doesn't go around preening and looking at herself and wanting everyone to worship her. Of course she know's she beautiful; she just doesn't make a big deal about it, is what I think they're saying.

But it would make less of a snappy title, wouldn't it? "You know that you're beautiful but you don't go round making a big deal about it" -- Wo-oh! :D

Powerstars 06-23-2013 11:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Trollheart (Post 1335405)
Yeah I claim the same disclaimer BUT I think what the lyric means is that she's one of those girls who is beautiful without trying, who doesn't go around preening and looking at herself and wanting everyone to worship her. Of course she know's she beautiful; she just doesn't make a big deal about it, is what I think they're saying.

But it would make less of a snappy title, wouldn't it? "You know that you're beautiful but you don't go round making a big deal about it" -- Wo-oh! :D

Well yeah, but that segment isn't terribly serious. :P Just funnyz.

Powerstars 06-23-2013 09:10 PM

The Killers - Hot Fuss
 
REVIEW #013 - "Hot Fuss" by The Killers
Year: 2004
Genre: Indie Rock/New Wave
http://userserve-ak.last.fm/serve/50...ss++HQ+PNG.png

The year is 2004. The Indie Rock fad of the mid-'00s is in gear when a band called The Killers releases their debut. The face of Glamorous Indie Rock and Roll is never the same. Not to be bias, but I really love The Killers, I think Brandon Flowers (vocalist) is a genius, as well as the others. Genius, genius, genius. I saw this much fabled album in my brother's CD collection and had to hear it. Not to mention, it doubles as New Wave, so here's a little diversity for the journal. So let's look at their debut, eh?

1. Jenny Was A Friend Of Mine
We open with the spacey strains of only one part of the supposed "murder trilogy." This one rocks hard as Brandon occasionally strains his voice as rockers like to do. Also, the funky bass really helps things along. Looking at the lyrics, it's hard to deny that the narrator is at least being a little obsessive about Jenny, even if it doesn't involve murder. Still, either way, a solid opening track with energy and New Wave influence everywhere.

2. Mr. Brightside
Since I first heard this song a few years back, it has been my off-again-on-again favorite song of all time. The singer's girl left him and had sex with "him." We don't need a name. We know it's the singer's douche, girl stealing rival. Then, if it's the same perspective from the last song, maybe the narrator is the douche and the rival is saving the girl, who would prefer to be with him. Ahem, back to the point. Emotional lyrics and delivery, catchy crunchy guitars, and overall a kickin' single.

3. Smile Like You Mean It
Right as we open, the indie rock and new wave elements are beside each other with synth and guitar. Being apparently written in 8 minutes, the new wave elements complement the rock part and give the song an almost dreamlike feeling. The effects on the guitar solo also help to give that feeling to this coming-of-age song. At least one person had compared this song to the work of The Smiths, and it's hard to deny that there was at least some influence taken from them.

4. Somebody Told Me
I gotta say, I'm a sucker for fast pop rock that focuses more on the, ya know, ROCK side of things. That's why I don't like most modern pop rock and that's why I like this song. It certainly does have it's pop edge with it's melody and the synth. But it rocks out hard to keep it from being too poppy, which makes it just BETTER. I also totally love the lyric "That you had a boyfriend who looked like a girlfriend." It proves these guys have not only a sense of medley, but a sense of humor. The chorus in general is pretty funny, and the song works well off of it.

5. All These Things That I've Done
We start with some eerie piano/organ stuff. It's a catchy song, and if you strip it down, it's very clearly inspired by The Beatles in some respect, which would make sense because Brandon is a huge Beatles fan. The big "I got soul but I'm not a solider" part could be inspired by any number of artists and is tailor-made to be sung with the audience at a concert.

6. Andy, You're A Star
We open with dem guitars, for possibly one of the hardest rocking songs on the album at times, and also very much a ballad. The lyrics are kinda...uh...I don't know, my interpretation of them is that the narrator is gay and telling a war veteran not to spend too much time with his spouse because "Andy, you're a star! In nobody's eyes, but mine." I don't know, that's just my take, though Brandon has said it's about a stalker and his object of desire...kinda the same thing.

7. On Top
A really bittersweet sounding song that manages to be on the more inspirational side of sad...while being fast at the same time. To me, it kinda sounds desperate. It also seems to deal with a rival of sorts, like the one in
"Mr Brightside" wanting to steal "my bride."

8. Change Your Mind
You know, this song is pretty happy for being about someone whose girlfriend may be rejecting him. He's fairly optimistic about it. He believes that maybe if "the answer is no, can I change your mind?" Delightful in that it's the happiest sounding song on the album without being way too cheesy and over-the-top. Although, the synth does make it just a bit cheesy, but just enough to make it acceptably cheesy, while the rock of the song keeps it in check.

9. Believe Me, Natalie
Dang it Natalie, why won't you listen to me! This is of great importance! It's the difference between life and death! This is the last time you can party-a-go-go...yeah, really serious sounding song for that being it's subject matter. I'm not even making that up...they use the phrase "party-a-go-go!" This is the one song on the album that I believe is a bit too cheesy in some way. I mean, the instrumentation is great as always, but the lyrics just don't work for this serious sounding of a song. Ah well.

10. Midnight Show
Dude, the dissonance at the beginning! THIS is definitely the hardest rocking song on the album! Also a part of the murder trilogy, I think during the last verse, the narrator is referring to throwing her dead body into a body of water and watching it sink. The Midnight Show itself is also probably also implying this. Also, the solo is just freakin' amazing with the funky stuff going on while the basic rockin' solo is going. And we end on a melancholy orchestral note...

11. Everything Will Be Alright
This song just makes the listener feel more comfortable after the songs about cheating girlfriends, murder, and other things. The luscious melody coupled with the emotional and high-energy vocals from Brandon, as well as the more laidback backing vocal, that I sadly cannot identify (could just be another recording of Brandon; if not, it's likely Ronnie [The drummer]). The dreamlike solo only adds to the charm. A beautiful ending song to finish off this occasionally dark album on a positive note.

Conclusion: Man, if there was ever such a great debut with so few problems. The album, while having a few short comings, is a modern classic that needs to be heard. If you can afford it, I also recommend the Limited Edition with 3 extra songs including "Glamorous Indie Rock And Roll," which I've referenced a few times before. Overall, solid and stellar album.

Score: 89/100 (Dark sometimes, happy sometimes, awesome all the time)

Zer0 06-24-2013 01:50 AM

The Killers were part of an indie rock fad? I thought they were a pop band with guitars?

Powerstars 06-24-2013 01:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zer0 (Post 1335683)
The Killers were part of an indie rock fad? I thought they were a pop band with guitars?

No no no...they were the opposite: a rock band with synths. ;)

Powerstars 06-25-2013 02:45 PM

Dragonforce - Inhumane Rampage
 
Review #014 - "Inhumane Rampage" by Dragonforce
Year: 2006
Genre: Power/Speed Metal
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F4GiuJbqVH...an+Rampage.jpg

Oh, Dragonforce. One of the most controversial metal bands of all time. People consistently argue over whether or now they're talented or talentless. Personally, my stance used to be that they were amazing, but now I'm kinda indifferent. I received this album for my birthday and now there are select tracks I like to listen to. Of course, most people know about Dragonforce because "Through The Fire And Flames" was in Guitar Hero 3, including myself, but most people don't know anything about them beyond that. So here I am, diving into their only album that people actually bought!

1. Through The Fire And Flames
Oh here we go! Their only song anyone actually cares about. I can't knock it too much, the opening riff is beyond catchy and, even though no one gives a damn about them, the vocals are solid. It's a good opening track to set the mood of the album.

2. Revolution Deathsquad
Once again, catchy opening. The rest of it isn't very catchy, but it's still a pretty ok song. Solos are good, but also not very memorable. The record scratch thing was cool though. Also, autotune at one part...o-kay?

3. Storming The Burning Fields
Opening with the sound of something starting on fire and phaser sounds, this is slightly faster and heavier yet than the 2 previous songs and certainly more catchy than "Revolution Deathsquad," but not by much. Chorus is freaking brilliant in it's catchiness and heaviness.

4. Operation Ground And Pound
Apparently, this is one of their better-known songs. And it's tad more unique compared to the others in that, while it's heavy, it's not just rapid playing and actually has a foundation...until about 45 seconds in. *sigh* Oh well, chorus at least has a decent foundation, but seriously Dragonforce, try something new. Oh well, can't knock this one too much with the dissonance that I love so much.

5. Body Breakdown
Pretty decent verses that are less heavy, and the chorus is catchy, but it's standard Dragonforce fare. The bass groove was a welcome surprise though.

6. Cry For Eternity
Opening riff is pretty cool. Standard, but rather great song. It's really growing on me. Spacey effects are really awesome and ska-like guitars at times are random, but cool

7. The Flame Of Youth
Eh, more generic Dragonforce fare, though the soft drums during the first verse is okay.

8. Trail Of Broken Hearts
What's that? Dragonforce tried something different, you say? A power ballad,you say!?! That's right, a unique song. And it's a damn good one. Catchy, light, yet heavy, and epic. They did something unique.

Conclusion: Sorry I wasn't able to go as in depth as I usually do, but this album is too repetitive for that. Overall, if you're looking for a fantastic listening experience, don't buy this. If you want an album for your party, take it. Also, don't just get this. Get the special edition that leaves out off quite possibly the best song on the album. But anyways, yes, I believe this could work as a party album with "Trail Of Broken Hearts" being the climax where all the drunken party goers get together and wave lighters in the air.

Final Score: 49/100 (Way repetitive, but it has some decent moments)

Powerstars 06-27-2013 01:10 PM


Powerstars 06-30-2013 02:59 PM

Considering, for the first time in my life, buying some iTunes gift cards so I can buy up Nirvana's studio discography and some of their other songs without my mom seeing stuff like "Incesticide" and "Rape Me"

Powerstars 06-30-2013 05:51 PM

I got 3 albums I wanna review, which one should I do first?

Paul McCartney - Memory Almost Full
Ben Folds Five - The Sound Of My Life Of My Mind
The Black Keys - Brothers

Powerstars 07-01-2013 07:04 PM

Review #015 - "Life In HD" by Life In HD
Year: 2013
Genre: Instrumental Prog Rock (except track 6)
http://f0.bcbits.com/img/a0466372685_2.jpg
Sometimes it's good to get some free music when you're saving money, or when you're flat broke. That's what I thought when I clicked the link of an MB user looking to promote his stuff. Now it was clear that he'd joined the site simply to plug his EP, as he only had one post and he was a new user. I found the post before it was removed and I bookmarked the page. I downloaded his album, cuz, free tunes, and decided I might as well review it. I was in a good mood. BTW, here's a link to his album. Anyways, since this guy is a one man band who plays all his own instruments, I decided to give him the benefit of a doubt. I know the feeling of wanting to promote my music. So, was it worth it? Let's find out.

1. The Beach
We start off very calm and cool. It's some of the subtle details that give the first part song it's charm, like the carefree slidey guitars. Then later, we get some heavy guitars and cymbals in the background, which actually creates a weird effect. I'm not sure if I like it or not. The song in general though, it's a pretty good chill tune. Can't really complain.

2. I Still Know You
Opening reverbtastic riff is setting a pretty decent tone, and it goes up from there. We get some decent drum work and an emphasized bassline. Around the 2 minute mark the guitars get slightly heavier for a bridge that brings us some better drumming for a bit and then a nice little bass and drum breakdown before the song really gets good and slightly dark.

3. An Overwhelming Realization
This is a more somber effort, and it does get me into the mood it's trying to create, I must say. It's certainly not bad. Though I must say, when it picks up, it almost makes me wanna headbang. Key word being almost. It doesn't quite do it's job later on. It had potential to be better. Ending piano was a nice touch though.

4. On The Edge Of The World
This one, while not as dark as the last, does get slightly heavier, and mildly headbang worthy. Bass is pretty nice, as is the guitar, but overall, I don't have terribly much to say. When it picks up for the 2nd time, however, it does merit headbanging in that slow, heavier sort of way. It's kewl.

5. You're Not Coming Back, Are You?
Somber, but I really don't know what to say at this point. It's certainly calmer and sadder than "An Overwhelming Reaction" until it picks up and get surprisingly happy, but I don't really know what to say anymore.

6. Gone Away (The Offspring cover)
This one, unlike the others has vocals. The drums are actually quite good, as are the aforementioned vocals. I can't really say much about this one since I haven't heard the original song. Anyways, shall we wrap this up?

Conclusion: Overall, I did enjoy this EP, but I found it incredibly generic and rather uninteresting most of the time. It's more like background music than anything. A point of advice for Mr. "Life In HD" if he's reading this: Maybe try adding vocals to your songs. In my opinion, that immediately makes a song more memorable. If you need someone to help write the lyrics, there are many people ready and willing. Also, you're a good singer. I heard you in that Offspring cover. Anyways, yeah, just a pointer. Otherwise your songs to me sound very generic and rather uninspired, no offense.

Overall: 60/100 (Worth it, it is free)

Powerstars 07-01-2013 07:26 PM

The Song Overthinker #2 - The Backstreet Boys - Everybody (Backstreet's Back)
http://images6.fanpop.com/image/phot...55-445-398.jpg
It appears as though I'll be covering mostly bad songs on this segment. Now then:

Hey, yeah
Oh my God, we're back again
Brothers, sisters, everybody sing
Gonna bring the flavor, show you how
Gotta question for you better answer now, yeah

Excuse me kind sir, but exactly what flavor of what substance are you bringing? And to where? Or do you mean flavor metaphorically, as in variety?

Am I original?
Yeah
Am I the only one?
Yeah

No sir, there are many other people on this planet. If you are referring to something specifically, please send me a fax, so I may better understand your writing process.

Everybody
Yeah
Rock your body
Yeah


Okay sir, I will move or sway to and fro or from side to side.

Trollheart 07-03-2013 12:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Powerstars (Post 1337845)
I got 3 albums I wanna review, which one should I do first?

Paul McCartney - Memory Almost Full
Ben Folds Five - The Sound Of My Life Of My Mind
The Black Keys - Brothers

I have to say I'm not really interested in any of those, but of the three, maybe the Black Keys?

Powerstars 07-03-2013 01:44 PM

Review #016 - "Elephant" by The White Stripes
Year: 2003
Genre: Alternative Rock/Garage Rock
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikiped...te_Stripes.png
I was just a bit interested in The White Stripes for too long. After reading Trollheart's review of Elephant and finding it was considered a classic, I decided I needed to judge for myself. Trollheart himself thought it was good, but not a classic, which got me a bit more interested. If it was good, but not great, why would the people hail it as a classic? Once again, my brother had a copy, so I popped that sucker into the disc drive and started to judge it.

1. Seven Nation Army
Hey, I've heard this song before, but I can't remember where. That's because, the melody, while catchy, fails to stick in my head for very long. It's catchy but not catchy enough. Don't get me wrong: I liked the song. But it's missing something. Solo is also good, but this song isn't terribly special. Oh BTW, that bass riff isn't a bass riff at all. It's a guitar riff that got messed with. Oh Jack White, creative one.

2. Black Math
Ooh, from the opening seconds, I know this is gonna be a solid rocker. Jack White's vocal performance is quite good. The fast riff in this song (the one that opens the song and appears various times throughout) is solid and really helps carry that sick solo that this song gives us. Listen to the song and you'll know what I'm talking about.

3. There's No Home For You Here
The song that the label wanted to release as a single, this one shows various Beatles influences, which I'm a sucker for, like the harmonies. The verses also remind me of an earlier hit by the band, "Dead Leaves And The Dirty Ground." It's a pretty good song. My favorite thing about the song is the guitar solo with the keyboards popping up. I'm noticing a pattern of Jack White being very good at crafting solos.

4. I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself
This is a cover, apparently. I'm noticing that in this song, Meg White's fantastic drumming is really helping things along. Also Jack White screams sometimes. Yay. Solid cover of a song I've never heard.

5. In The Cold, Cold Night
"Hey," says Jack White to Mr. Producer Man, "let's give Meg a song to sing." And they did just that. Granted, this is a cool little song. The song is surprisingly laidback, and Meg's voice actually complements that. Also, the organ fill/solo is awesome, and this band should have used organs more often. It really helps the almost bluesy feel the song has. It's a solid track and one that actually really helps the album.

6. I Want To Be The Boy To Warm Your Mother's Heart
Okay...what's with that title and these lyrics. What in the name of all that is holy was Jack White thinking when he added these lyrics to this song. Granted, the song is good. It's, again, a bit bluesy, and Jack's vocals are solid, but the lyrics kinda ruin it.

7. You've Got Her In Your Pocket
A heartwarming acoustic song. Yup, the album is chilling out. It's cool, but the lyrics are kinda creepy. "I wanna keep you in my pocket...where there's no way out." Dude, creepy!

8. Ball And Biscuit
Ah, every album needs a long epic rockin' song right?...SHUT UP AND DON'T ANSWER THAT! This song's about drugs, don't believe me, look it up. Jack White talking through the song is actually pretty cool for a more ELECTRIC blues song. Yeah, they went there. The jam portions are freaking fantastic, and I love them. This song is so good that in a poll by Rolling Stone, it was vote Jack White's best song, and this man has written some good stuff. It's just fantastic. Surprisingly, it also doesn't even overstay it's welcome. At 7 minutes, it just seems to pass by like every other song on the album.

9. The Hardest Button To Button
We open with an almost spacey kinda vibe. Slower, but still rocking out. We do get some sort of synth in the background that I notice, unless the bass is under lots of reverb of something. It really adds something to the song. Pretty good.

10. Little Acorns
And here we are, starting with a speech, and then an oddly sounding piano which morphs into the full band. This is the song I can imagine at one moment bobbing your head slightly, and at the next moment moshing like mad. Yup, it's one of those songs.

11. Hypnotize
And here we, another fast. This is a song for your party playlists. Get wild to this one. It's catchy, it's fast, it's awesome.

12. The Air Near My Fingers
Okay, this is a lot like "There's No Home For You Here" but less awesome. It's still pretty good though. But not much to say on it. Doo doo, doodoodoodoo doo doo. Organs are nice though.

13. Girl, You Have No Faith In Medicine
The song is somewhere in between incredibly bad ass and incredibly hilarious. I just love it. I mean, it's a bad ass rock song about a girl who has no faith in medicine. I just don't know what to (do with myself) say!

14. It's True That We Love One Another
Quirky collaboration between the 2 White Stripes and Holly Golightly. It's extremely cheesy and weird and that's why I love it. The delivery of Meg's lines is wonderful and the line "Y'know I gave that horse a carrot so he'd break your foot" is awesome. Good way to end this album.

Conclusion: I pretty much agree with Trollheart's stance that this is a good album, but not a classic, though I give it more credit. It's a very enjoyable ride.

Final Score: 75/100 (Get it)

Powerstars 07-05-2013 03:11 PM

Hey guys, I hit over 1,000 views. WOO!

Powerstars 07-07-2013 03:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Trollheart (Post 1338987)
I have to say I'm not really interested in any of those, but of the three, maybe the Black Keys?

I may look into it, but out of the 3, I'm currently most interested in talking about the Paul McCartney one. Are you interested in seeing my talk about any other albums/bands in particular?

Powerstars 07-12-2013 05:16 PM

I should be getting a review out by next week. :)

Powerstars 07-13-2013 09:47 PM

Music Forum Flame War #1 - Roblox's Linkin Park Conflict
http://i.imgur.com/C9RVCN6.png
Yet another new segment here in my barf...ew, that's disgusting. Yeah, anyways, I should be getting back to my other segments eventually, but this is something I've been thinking about, and I finally figured out how to format it. The intent is not to spread hate, but rather laugh at the stupidity of the internet. So here we go:

Website: Roblox
Summary: Users argue other whether Linkin Park is a good band or not.
5 Cherry-Picked Moments Of Hilarity:
http://i.imgur.com/eBASFAP.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/zt9uvtt.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/e5za0BV.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/6LXpHEf.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/v10q30o.jpg

So, what do you guys make of this? If you have a flame war you want showcased on Music Forum Flame War, PM me the link. I wanted to put out something this week guys. Hope you enjoy!

Powerstars 07-17-2013 09:12 PM

Review #017 - "Memory Almost Full" by Paul McCartney
Right off the bat, I didn't have terribly high expectations for this. I mean, a musician who was popular in his 20's and 30's tends not to be as good in his '60s. I mean, I wouldn't say Paul McCartney would make a cash-in, but certainly there must be some sort of loss of quality, right? Then I dug a bit deeper. The year before this album came out, Paul divorced Heather Mills and it's widely known among the Beatles fandom that his previous studio album, released in 2005, had many themes of the breakup in progress. Will this album have similar themes? More importantly, will it be any good?

1. Dance Tonight
So, by the sound of the first single, this may in fact by a cash-in. Mandolin based pop song with no real heart to it. I can't say it's not catchy though.

2. Ever Present Past
Another more poppy effort, but it's a lot more meaningful. This is more of a keyboard-based thing and is a bit less light-hearted in tone.

3. See Your Sunshine
Did...Paul McCartney just write a sex song? Tis a good song, but I can't say it stands out in the grand scheme of things.

4. Only Mama Knows
We start with a lush string arrangement which morphs into a surprisingly hard rocking song by McCartney's standards. It's the first real standout of the album and takes it out of it's poppy, but bland slump. This one really does rock and was worth the wait.

5. You Tell Me
A beautiful, well orchestrated ballad about Paul's former wife Linda McCartney. Although, I really do have to mention that it does sound laughable at times when he tries to go falsetto.

6. Mr. Bellamy
This one has some jazzy piano and a rather dark tone. Paul hits some of the lowest notes of his vocal range as well as some repetitively high ones. It's a cool, almost jazzy effort and I can dig that.

7. Gratitude
Another attempt at pop. He strains his voice too much. Let's move on...

8. Vintage Clothes
This one is part '70s-style rock and part electronic-ambient. Yes, really. Lyrics are odd. Who cares that you wear vintage clothes? BTW, this also marks the start of a mini-medley on the album in the same vein as the famous Abbey Road medley.

9. That Was Me
Kinda a blues-rock, country-rock vibe on this one. The highlight is definitely the guitar solo where Paul sings along. :laughing:

10. Feet In The Clouds
Decent, but I can't say it was memorable or stood out. Who knows, maybe it'll grow on me?

11. House Of Wax
Starting with a dramatic piano riff, we end up with a dramatic, almost power ballad. He's obviously getting some sort of anger out with this one. Also, props to McCartney's guitarist Rusty, the solo was excellent.

12. The End Of The End
We slow things down for the final song of the medley. It's deeply heartfelt, involving how McCartney doesn't want people to be sad when he died. I must say, as a huge Beatles fan, this almost drove me to tears. But wait, much like the Abbey Road medley, there's one more song.

13. Nod Your Head
Only certain musicians can make cheesy crap like this sound so epic. How does Paul do it? He turns up the distortion for a short, sweet final song that really closes things up well.

Conclusion: The first 3 tracks left me with something of a bad impression that was quickly lifted. However, many of the tracks I found to be rather mediocre. The thing that kept this album for being a mediocre piece of fluff were the standout tracks like "Only Mama Knows," "The End Of The End," and "Nod Your Head."

Final Score: 70/100 (Paul's still got it)

Powerstars 07-21-2013 01:23 PM

Song Spotlight #3 - Big Me
This Beatles-esque rocker is awesome in itself, but the video is the best part. A parody of Mento's commercials, the Foo Fighters had to stop playing this song for a while because people were throwing Mento's at them. I'mma just let the video speak for itself.

Powerstars 07-22-2013 09:59 PM

Review #018 - "Led Zeppelin" by Led Zeppelin
Year: 1969
Genre: Hard Rock/Blues Rock
http://philturner99.files.wordpress....zeppelin-i.jpg
Ah, Led Zeppelin. One of the single most influential hard rock groups of all time. This album was recorded a year after they'd changed their name from The New Yardbirds, which was a reference to Jimmy Page's old band The Yardbirds. While this album doesn't have any of the hits that Led Zeppelin became known for years later, it is considered important due to certain recording techniques, such as the backwards echo. And I must say, for 1969, that cover is ballsy. But does it hold up today?

1. Good Times Bad Times
Cool opening track. Jimmy Page's solo is quite good, as are Robert Plant's vocals, but I think my favorite part is the little bass grooves. This combines blues and hard rock in a good way.

2. Babe I'm Gonna Leave You
Ooh. A very nice acoustic song, right up my alley. Apparently, it's a cover, but I'm not familiar with the original. The guitar playing is emotional and done very well. When it picks up for a few bridges, we also get some fairly solid drumming and whatnot, I suppose to remind the listener that this is in fact a hard rock album. Also Robert Plant screaming is cool.

3. You Shook Me
Another cover, this time of a Muddy Waters song, and it shows. There's no doubt in my mind that some version of the song inspired AC/DC's "You Shook Me All Night Long," lyrically at least. This one documents the blues rock side of them the best out of all the songs on the album in my opinion. Page's descending hold notes are perfect to go with Plant's amazing vocal performance. One complaint, Plant singing to the guitar at the end is freaking ridiculous.

4. Dazed and Confused
Probably the most famous song on the album, this one begins with some bass and guitar effects, followed by Plant blasting into his vocal performance. It also has something of a bluesy beat and some cool effects.

5. Your Time Is Gonna Come
Slash's favorite Led Zeppelin song opens with a nice organ, and then some acoustic guitar. It's fairly catchy with the chorus that has everything we need for the song: John Bonham drumming, Robert Plant singing, and John Paul Jones on keyboard. It's a cool little song which segues perfectly into...

6. Black Mountain Side
A cool little instrumental with some indian influence. Not terribly memorable, but it doesn't overstay it's welcome.

7. Communication Breakdown
Back to the hard rock. Fast-paced song, with a great chorus that has some fairly cool harmonies, and maybe the best vocal performance on the album. The solo is also pretty awesome, I must say.

8. I Can't Quit You Baby
Another cover, less blues rock this time, and more just blues. Without Page's little guitar bits, and the bridges with Bonham, I could easily say that it was just blues with no rock element. It's a pretty awesome song.

9. How Many More Times
For the longest song on the album, we got the most blues rocky song on the album with the most awesome effects. They really went all out for the final track, which, in my opinion, is the best on the album. It showcases everything the album is about in 8 and a half minutes.

Conclusion: Solid album, that doesn't drag and cuts straight to the punch. Solid first album from one of the most influential blues rock bands ever to ever to ever to EVER exist.

Final score: 90/100

Unknown Soldier 07-24-2013 01:21 PM

Personally I think that album is one of the best ever recorded, despite the constant complaints from certain quarters it gets, where people moan about the way the band ripped off riffs from others.

Powerstars 07-26-2013 03:20 PM

Music Forum Flame War #2 - Bowie Or Cobain?
Ah yes, "The Man Who Sold The World." One of the most infamous cases of being Covered Up, it even provided the page quote! There is much debate to which version is better. In one corner, we have Bowie's original heavily produced version. In the second corner, we have Nirvana's live, down to earth, unplugged cover version. But on the videos for either of these songs, you're gonna get some flame wars over which is better. These are from the Bowie version.

Website: YouTube
Summary: Users argue over David Bowie and Nirvana's versions of "The Man Who Sold The World."
Five Cherry-Picked Moments Of Hilarity:
First up, the Nirvana fan boys:
http://i.imgur.com/f7QDZWP.png
http://i.imgur.com/0vlR0Mk.png
Next, the Bowie fan boys and the Nirvana haters:
http://i.imgur.com/TC1XD7e.png
http://i.imgur.com/TwR5rLF.png
And finally, the voice of reason:
http://i.imgur.com/Lxto6Cy.png
What do you guys think?

Trollheart 07-27-2013 05:28 AM

What about Lulu's version? :confused:

Powerstars 07-27-2013 07:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Trollheart (Post 1350235)
What about Lulu's version? :confused:

That doesn't come up in flame wars nearly as often. However...*listening*...

Powerstars 08-01-2013 01:07 PM

Song Spotlight #4 - Hotel California (Cover by The Killers)
I've said it before: I love The Killers. And I'd love you to check out their latin-tinged cover of The Eagle's "Hotel California!"

Powerstars 08-04-2013 11:02 PM

The Song Overthinker #3 - "Radioactive" by Imagine Dragons
http://media.ticketmaster.com/tm/en-...es/128805a.jpg
Let's just cut the nonsense and get right into The Song Overthinker!

I'm waking up to ash and dust

Where did you sleep last night? Certainly not in the pines!

I wipe my brow and I sweat my rust

JESUS CHRIST MAN! When was the last time you had a shower!

Whoa, oh, oh, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh, oh, I'm radioactive, radioactive

O.O Seriously? It's been that long since you've bathed yourself? Okay, I can't take anymore of your nasty body drippings. I'm out for this segment of The Song Overthinker.

Powerstars 08-27-2013 01:51 PM

Sorry guys, both my computers have borked out on me. I won't be able to post much in here or anywhere until it gets sorted out. I had to bike to the library to take care of some online business, so yeah.

Powerstars 09-15-2013 08:59 AM

And no one cared. :'( But really, I might be able to put something up but probably not an album review.

Powerstars 09-20-2013 05:15 PM

RANT 3 - Cover Songs That Overshadow the Original

So Uncle Powers hates One Direction. Said band covers "One Way or Another." Uncle Powers is understandebly peeved. It's a classic rock staple and they did a terrible cover. But then they cover "Wonderwall" which Uncle Powers cares about a lot more. The point I'm trying to make is that I hate it when bad bands cover good songs and overshadow the original. You get that, right?

GO 3DS!

RJMusic 10-05-2013 06:05 AM

I agree with most of that

Powerstars 10-16-2013 11:35 PM

Computer is dead. I'm gonna need to get a new one. That said, I'll still be lurking, but it'll be a few more months before I'm back in action. So yeah...stuff.

Powerstars 10-18-2013 09:36 PM

Review #019 - "Wasting Light" by Foo Fighters
Year: 2011
Genre: Alternative/Hard Rock

http://2a56b976980e0793ddee-5cc5435f...ing-Light.jpeg

Not even the breaking of 2 computers can keep me from bringing you great album reviews! I've been listening to a lot of music lately, but I keep reaching for the most recent album from the Foo's. Dave Grohl is one of my favorite people in the industry, being a full-time member of Foo Fighters and (formely) Nirvana, as well as bringing his touch to Tenacious D, NIN, Queens of The Stone Age, and others. But enough gushing about Dave Grohl, let's gush about this album...

1. Bridge Burning
We kick it off with an intentionally odd and distorted riff before some growling....TROLLHEART, GET OUT FROM UNDER THAT TABLE THIS INSTANT! Geez, it's not even a Metal song. Anyways, the growling doesn't last, and it becomes quite the solid opener.

2. Rope
Catchy single with some 'Grohl'ing here and there, as I like to say.

3. Dear Rosemary
Interesting song. I know it's catchy, but I'm not sure how to interpret it. Still quite good.

4. White Limo
Unlike most other songs from this album, this one is based entirely around the growling. Fine TH, you can stay under the table. I like it though. Pounding drums, beautifully ugly guitar, and loud, raucous vocals, this may be the single heaviest FF song.

5. Arlandria
Also a heavy song, with quieter verses and a build-up bridge to connect the two. The bridge also gets a cool harmony into the mix. Could be connected to "Dear Rosemary" who is "part of me," while Arlandria is "not me."

6. These Days
Another catchy single, more like a traditional Foo's song. Great song, not much to say.

7. Back & Forth
Unique chorus, just recently started standing out to me. May grow on me.

8. A Matter Of Time
Catchy, but not too special.

9. Miss The Misery
Kind of a cool thing this has going, it may grow on me.

10. I Should Have Known
Cool, sorta weird with the accordian (Played by Nirvana's own Krist Novoselic), but it's cool and catchy.

11. Walk
I cannot put into words how much I love this song. Just shy of 6 minutes, it doesn't get bland. Climactic, beautiful, genius.

Conclusion Heavier than FF's usual stuff, but not bland like One By One. I reccomend it.

Final Score: 90/100 (I love your beard, Davy Grohlton)

Powerstars 10-25-2013 11:45 PM

Man, I'm out of ideas for this journal...Playlist Of Life has been interesting lately.....hmm...

http://trollheart.com/powth2.png

Powerstars 10-30-2013 08:05 PM

Dammit, my computer's broken and I want The Next Day Extra EP!

Powerstars 10-30-2013 08:50 PM

Song Spotlight - "Tranquilize" by The Killers ft. Lou Reed



For those of you who don't know, a few days ago, Lou Reed passed away. I decided it was appropriate to show you a song with him that I enjoy.

Powerstars 11-09-2013 09:02 AM

RANT 4 - Bands Who Ditch All But One Member

Now I understand if a band has to replace one or two members because of death, creative differences, or retirement. There are some bands that do this well (Red Hot Chili Peppers have gone through quite a few guitarists and drummers, but the bassist and vocalist have been the same since day one). Then there are bands that have ditched nearly every member over the years for creative differences (Guns 'N Roses being the prime example, with Axl firing some, like Steven Adler, and others being unable to deal with his crap, like Slash. The only original members left are Axl Rose and keyboardist Dizzy Reed), or even a plane crash (Lynyrd Skynyrd reunited years after the infamous plane crash killed 2 members, with only one original member, the others having moved on). Even bands I still enjoy (Smashing Pumpkins only have Billy Corgan, but I still like some songs off Oceania) have done this. A lot of bands have gradually phased out EVERY member to keep going, which is more acceptable than immediate bootings one after the other. I mean really. Even if this is just an excuse for me to complain about Axl Rose, it's still a problem.

Trollheart 11-10-2013 02:46 PM

Think your point got lost there somewhere along the way, me old son! What were you complaining about exactly? I was waiting for a conclusion or summation, but none came... :confused:


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