Top Legs of the year 2018

I figured King Legs (aka Paul Cronin) has enough of an open mind to bring some variety as well as records I wanted on this years top lists but probably couldn't fit in the rest. That being said Paul delivered, we are honored to have the list with the nicest legs.

Top 10

10. Cardi B – Invasion of Privacy

I’m gonna marry Cardi B. I said it and I meant it. I was actually really shocked by how genuinely good this album was. Theres tons of heaters on this piece and for someone who is arguably most famous for her rambunctious attitude, she has genuine musical chops.

9. Mac Miller – Swimming

I regrettably haven’t listened to much of Mac Miller’s stuff before because I never felt the need to. However, I started hearing great things about this record even before his untimely death. I feel stupid for having not listened sooner. This dude had real chops. The production on this album was fantastic, his flow and lyrics were great, and surprisingly, he has a decent singing voice. It sucks that he passed so young. This album was a sign of great things to come from him.

8.  Kids See Ghosts – Kids See Ghosts

Kanye had a very productive year, releasing five produced albums within five weeks. I didn’t listen to one of them, but the other four were great. My second favorite is this one. Kanye and Kid Cudi came together on a project that, surprisingly, isn’t a total mess. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Kanye’s own album this year, Ye, but this one is better by leaps and bounds.

7. Harms Way – Posthuman

An early favorite from this year, this is still one of the best metal records I’ve heard in 2018. In my honest opinion, very few metal albums this year have gone above and beyond to impress me; its been mostly hip hop and alternative stuff, but this one beat my pasty ass when I first heard it. Every song is like getting suplexed and the songwriting shows real growth. I love this band.

6. Denzel Curry – TA13OO

This dude is unbelievable. One of my favorite current rappers produced one of the best rap records, a perfect blend of old school influence mixed with modern production and vibes. Makes that Soundcloud rap shit sound pathetic. An incredible range of production as well highlight this album. A must listen for rap fans.

5. Twitching Tongues – Gaining Purpose Through Passionate Hatred

I love Twitching Tongues. Like, LOVE love. A flawless blend of ballads and absolutely ridiculous riffs. This band is one of the few that every time I see them, I legitimately lose my mind. I don’t know what else to say other than I broke a pair of glasses at one of their shows, and (I think) accidentally punched a girl in the back of the head at another. Oops.

4. JID – DiCaprio 2

I became aware of this guy because of a feature on Denzel Curry’s album, and Billy (William Nicholls, singer of Mourned, lover of Dark Souls) checked out some of his own songs and showed them to me. They were, uh, insane, so obviously this album was a very exciting prospect. it ended up being one of the best rap albums this year, one of the best rap records I’ve heard in a while, and a throwback to when rap was about lyricism and less about being catchy. Also, the song Off Deez with J. Cole is probably my favorite song of the year. All I know is that I have freaked out many times in my car listening to it.

3. Mike Shinoda – Post Traumatic

Linkin Park is my favorite band so, as most know, I took Chester Bennington’s death pretty hard. Linkin Park was my first musical love and will always occupy that special place in my heart. This album spoke to that very part of me and proved to be the catharsis I didn’t know I needed. While also supplying the heat as Mike usually does, this album’s blunt yet poignant lyrics really let listeners in to what he was feeling during the months after Chester’s death. He let himself be an open book, and that’s what I love about him, and why he will always be one of my favorite artists. Side note: seeing him last month at the HOB was one of my favorites shows I’ve ever been to in my life.

2. Pusha-T – DAYTONA

This album is 7 songs, 23 minutes, and straight heat the entire time. Easily the best Kanye-produced album released this year, every song is insane. The production is top notch, and it is a perfect example of Kanye’s genius, when he wants to employ it. I’ve listened to this album countless times and it gets better every time. I’ve always been aware of Push but this was the year I became a real fan. Also can’t believe he literally killed Drake. Damn. Rest in peace. Too young.

1. Vein – Errorzone

Trying to figure out my #1 for this year was tough because there were so many great choices, but ultimately this was the only one that felt truly right. A maddening blend of hardcore, metalcore, and pure insanity, this album is flawless from top to bottom. Not a single bad song on this, and the musicianship from these guys is unbelievable. The future is extremely bright for Vein, and they’ve come a long, long way from the band I saw almost 5 years ago in a basement in NH.

The Neil of Approval 2018

Now that Zach's piece of shit top albums that don't matter is done we can move on to a better one. Ladies and gentleman I give you the Neil of Approval, presented by the great Neil Murray of Field of Vision.

Top 10

10 – Mitski – Be the Cowboy

I have always seen the hype behind Mitski but it never clicked with me until this record. 2018 was a phenomenal year for music so making it to my top ten is no easy feat. Her voice is so pure it can melt the day to day pain away. The big moments in this record are huge and I always find them stuck in my head. The lyrical content keeps me guessing what the songs are about. Anyone will like this record. The artwork is beautiful and matches perfectly for what this record encompasses.
Album art: 9/10
Best lyric: Come into the Water: “I didn’t know I had a dream I didn’t know until I saw you.”
Favorite track: Nobody 

9 – Nicole Dollanganger – Heart Shaped Bed

Nicole Dollanganger has been at the top of my list to see live for a while and unfortunately, she hasn’t played close to me in a few years. These songs are dark and beautiful and strange. There is a power in her dark story telling that is hard to match. The songs may be fictional, but they are still relatable and heartbreaking. This record did not get as much attention as it deserved, probably because they screwed up everything possible when putting it out. First off, five out of the ten tracks were released in March and then there was no news about when the other half was coming. Finally, in October the whole thing was released with very little marketing. You still can’t buy a physical copy which doesn’t make any sense. Hearing half the record at a time definitely changed the way I think of it for the worse. Oh well, end rant. Listen to it anyway.
Album art: 9/10
Favorite Track: Heart Shaped Bed

8 – Kacey Musgraves – Golden Hour

A country singer? On Neil’s list? I know what you’re thinking “what in tarnation”? This record changed everything for me. I’ve always known country wasn’t all yippee Calle and square dancing, but I never knew it could be this good. Every song hits home and is relatable to anyone. Listen to this record to understand the hype. I really hope to see her live and pay less than $50 but I guess she is a big deal now.
Album art: 6/10
Favorite Track: Space Cowboy 

7 – Advanced Base – Animal Companionship

RFC puts out some of my favorite records every year and this year is no different. Animal Companionship hits you where it hurts, everywhere. Some sad music about lost love and life that keeps you coming back for more. This record grew on me a lot more than I anticipated as I had different songs stuck in my head all the time. I finally realized just how good every song is.
Album art: 7/10
Favorite Track: Me & You & The moon 

6 – Superorganism – Self Titled

Another record that took me (and the world) by surprise. I think there’s at least eight members in the band. I was lucky enough to catch them live and it was the closest thing to what I imagine being on drugs feels like. This record is the perfect length and each song flows so perfectly into the next. I am not sure what else to say about this band they are too much to describe with words.
Album art: 8.5/10
Favorite Track: Everybody Wants to be Famous 

5 – Fiddlehead – Springtime & Blind 

Another RFC release, this record is special to a lot of people including me. There are elements that make this the perfect soundtrack for cold, cloudy, or grey days. Despite this there is still an element of hope to these songs that provides a good balance of pain and joy. The album art and visuals are perfect, and I hope to see more Fiddlehead music in the future.
Album art: 9.5/10
Favorite Track: Head Hands 

4 – The Beths – Future Me Hates Me 

Power Pop that rocks your socks off. I think this band is from New Zealand or somewhere close. I wish I knew about this band sooner and I wish I saw them live when they came to Boston this year. Shout out to Andrew for showing me them and being the best. Check out this record for infectious music and a good time.
Album art: 8.5/10
Favorite Track: Future Me Hates Me 

3 – The Berries – Start All Over Again 

Could it be? A third RFC release? Yes. Matt Berry, the person behind Happy Diving, Big Bite and The Berries is a musical genius. The Berries offer an array of sounds ranging from country to indie rock. Every song gives me a nostalgic feeling while still showing me something new. Every song is great, and I don’t know what else more I can say! Listen to The Berries or be a fool.
Album art: 4.5/10
Favorite Track: Lonely Gods

2 – Hop Along – Bark Your Head Off, Dog 

For a while I didn’t want to admit just how much I liked this album. I didn’t think it was good enough to be in my top ten list for a while and then I thankfully came to my senses. This record is insane. The vivid storytelling and unique vocals prove why Hop Along is one of the best bands. The amount of work that must have gone into these songs is mind boggling and I can’t wait to see them live next week! Listen to this one in depth and hear all the little things that make Hop Along special.
Album art: 6/10
Favorite Track: Prior Things 

1 – Vein – Errorzone

Vein’s the best band in the world. No record makes me feel the way Errorzone does. There was no way this wasn’t going to be my #1. If this record isn’t on your list, I question you strongly. Get a grip. Vein has a lot of hype around them and they deserve every bit of it and more. I had nothing to do with this record and I’m still proud of it. It feels like a part of me that I will always have.
Album art: 8/10
Favorite Track: (record too flawless to pick)

Best song on the year – Hatchie – Adored

Most anticipated records of 2019
Ghost Chief – Paint Leaves
Fuming Mouth – The Grand Descent
Astronoid – Self Titled
Fury
The Berries
Nails
Drab Majesty
Tomb Mold
Protest the Hero
Praying to my lord and savior (Sandy) Alex G for a ne

The Z List 2018

Just because Zach left us for the Cali life, doesn't mean he didn't beg me to put his top albums up here. Like literally he called me crying. Even more bullshit, he just h a d to make it 15 this year. Of course you just can't say no to a face as cute as his so here is the Z List presented by a C list. Take it away Zach.

15. Joji – Ballads 1

Fuck, you know it was a great year for music when Joji’s Ballads 1 is placed 15th on a very tentative “top 15 favorite albums of 2018” list. I’ll be truly honest here. I had no idea who Joji even was until I saw the cover of this album, and exclaimed something along the lines of “HAHA why is Filthy Frank the album artwork for this”. Curious, I checked it out, did some investigating, and discovered that Joji is actually Filthy Frank. Mind blown…. Mind STILL blown. Anyway, this album is the epitome of catchy, sad boy, R&B pop. Songs like “Wanted U” and “Slow Dancing In The Dark” nearly had me texting all two of my ex-girlfriends and asking them why they dumped me. Even more upbeat songs like “Can’t Get Over You” still have a twisted, apathetic undertone that have you relishing in your own insecurities. Sounds miserable, I know, but its 2018 and everyone is embracing their sensitive side. Join the club with Joji’s Ballads 1.

Favorite track: Test Drive

14. Cult Leader – A Patient Man

Double fuck. You now know for certain 2018 was a great year for music when Cult Leader’s A Patient Man is ranked 14th out of 15! It almost hurts me to place such a great album like this so low on a list, but I justify my choice based on the fact that the remaining 13 are just that good. You know how there are certain events that take place in our lives where we can recall exactly where we were when they occurred? When you heard Michael Jackson died; when you discovered Octomom did a porn video, etc…. I remember exactly where I was when I first heard the song “To: Achlys” off of this album. It was about nine at night walking down Nebraska Ave. in West LA. The dismal beauty of this song is difficult to put into words. It’s like watching a slow-motion car crash, but instead of the vehicle bursting into flames, a bed of flowers slowly sprouts from the frame. The first three songs on A Patient Man are so fucking intense, it’s no wonder track 4, “To: Achlys”, and track 5, “A World of Joy”, are very tame and dampening to the mood of this album - in the best way possible. A similar pattern is repeated on the latter half of the album as well. Shit, give it a spin and you’ll understand.
Favorite track: The Broken Right Hand of God

13. Sectioned – Annihilated 

One time, many years ago, I was browsing several websites that I maybe shouldn’t have been browsing on the family computer. Amidst my perusing, the computer screen suddenly froze, and a crazy ear fuck of a noise came out of the speakers. The best way to describe the sound is what I’d imagine a laser gun switched to hyper mode would sound like. Fast forward 12 or so years later, and that same sort of sound flooded my ears yet again, but this time in the form of deranged and chaotic music. This new form of ear fuck has a title: Sectioned – Annihilated. Not for wine drinkers, frat pussies, or “Nashville spring break 2017”ers, this album will literally palm your fucking puny head and bash it into oblivion. Songs like “Starved Lives” and “Release” have breakdowns that are so heavy you’ll have to hold back throwing up; swallowing your vomit, only to re-puke in your mouth again at the start of the next track. Sounds fun? Sounds fun.

Favorite track: Synchronicity

12. Basement – Beside Myself

I was late to arrive on the Basement train. I hopped on right around the release of Promise Everything. I know, big mistake not getting into them earlier, but I’m here now, so stop yelling. 2018 was an impeccable year for the heavier side of music, but releases like Beside Myself offer some serious points for the softer side of 2018 as well. It’s crazy that emo music is over 25 years old now and still holds honest relevance in the music world; and I mean this in a good way. Basement is undoubtedly at the forefront of modern emo, and this album solidifies the idea that emo is still a growing genre. Literally every song on Beside Myself has catchy hooks, choruses, and riffs. It’s tame, it’s refined (yet a little edgy), and it’s sentimental; exactly what I expect from an emo record. I’d say this record pretty much epitomizes life in my mid-20s. Depressing mostly, but oddly nostalgic, and for that, I say “fuck yeeeeeah, this shit is tight, and also my life kind of sucks at the moment”.

Favorite track: Stigmata

11. Long Distance Calling – Boundless

One of my absolute favorite post metal bands, Long Distance Calling has yet again released some seriously incredible summer night music. If you recall, my favorite album of 2016 was Long Distance Calling’s TRIPS (y’all better be paying attention to my previous year’s favorite albums lists). Do not be fooled by an 11th place spot, Boundless is still an incredible record in my eyes (and ears haha lol), but fuck, TRIPS was just so goddamn good! The first 9 minutes and 11 seconds of the album fall under the track “Out There”, and shit, does this song make me want to hop in my car at 2 a.m. and just drive OUT THERE (hehe omg lol), to the middle of nowhere; under the stars, in the warm summer night. Straight out of a coming-of-age movie. In fact, the majority of this album has that vibe. It is the perfect night time driving soundtrack. Parts you’ll want to floor it at: “Ascending” 1:00 – 1:20, “The Far Side” 5:05 – end of song, and “Skydivers” 2:10 – 3:30. Pure post metal bliss.

Favorite track: Skydivers

10. Conjurer – Mire

2018 was a year of discovery. Peanut oil is the best oil to cook with; baby wipes work better than toilet paper; Conjurer; these are a few game changer discoveries made over the past several months. This band came out of fucking nowhere for me, smacking me in the face like JWoww did to The Situation in season 1 episode 8 of The Jersey Shore. The album, Mire, meshes the intensity of Converge, the heaviness of Gojira, and the melodic beauty of Bossk into one head banger of a record. The combined high and low vocals throughout the album are some of the best I have ever heard, especially over slower flowing tracks like “Hollow” and “Of Flesh Weaker Than Ash”. Add Conjurer and their album Mire to the list of music that I go balls out for. Let it be known that if I had stumbled upon this record earlier it would probably be higher up on the list!

Favorite track: Thankless

9. Unreqvited – Stars Wept To the Sea

Traditional black metal: The sad, scrawny, constantly-in-detention-for-lighting-fires-in-class brother of death metal. Modern black metal: the artistic, clean cut, and still sad offspring of post metal and traditional black metal. Kvlt elitists will tell you that modern black metal is not black metal; and to that I say “shut up and take a shower you fucking gross cave hippie.” Thank god (Satan?) for bands like Unreqvited for adding a refined and atmospheric sound to black metal. Do not get me wrong, Mayhem, Darkthrone, Immortal and others are great, but it’s time the genre evolved a bit. Rant over. Stars Wept to The Sea is the product of a one-man band from planet Earth. I don’t know what it is with modern black metal and solo projects, but shit does it work so well. Basically, an enhanced continuation of the previous release, Disquiet, Stars Wept to The Sea proposes a well-produced, docile, yet powerful, piece of art. Metal heads and moms alike can bond over this one, as the screams and heavy parts are often accompanied with beautiful synth, chimes, and organ sections. Songs like “Kurai” and “Soulscape” replicate the album art in music form, throwing you into this beautiful realm of coolness and clarity. I think people of all music tastes will appreciate this record!

Favorite track: Soulscape

8. Rolo Tomassi – Time Will Die and Love Will Bury It

You know how you can put maple syrup on anything and it’ll taste like a waffle? Yeah, the same exact thing goes for this record, where the album is the maple syrup, and your emotions are the waffle…. Makes sense? No? Fuck you, let me do my thing. Time Will Die and Love Will Bury It is the perfect collection of near polar opposite tunes jammed into one record. I’m serious; you have discordant, yet highly functioning tunes such as “Alma Mater” and “Whispers Among Us”; and on the opposite side of the spectrum, simplistically peaceful songs like Aftermath and Risen, that have you questioning whether or not this is all from the same band. I’ve always loved releases that embody more than just one uniform sound throughout the album. The perfect blend of all emotions, because after all, that’s what life is all about right? A healthy balance of emotions…. It lets you know you’re alive. I don’t know, I’m just talking out of my ass at this point, but this album really does fucking rip! 

Favorite track: Aftermath

7. The Ocean – Phanerozoic I: Palaeozoic

This band. THIS FUCKING BAND. Bill knows how much this band means to me. Aeolian, Their 2005 release, is one of my absolute favorite albums of all time, but this isn’t about that album. This is about their newest, yet another dutiful release,  Phanerzonkies 1: Paleodiet, or whatever the fuck it’s called. Don’t be fooled by the abysmally difficult-to-pronounce album and song titles, this record is a charming addition to the seemingly infinite list of beautiful The Ocean masterpieces. While the band has strayed away from the heavier Coalesce-esque (lol) influence from very early releases, a refined and more mature sound projected on their newer work still pins a uniqueness to the band. The best part of this album is that Paul Seidel, formerly of War From A Harlots Mouth, and current drummer for Nightmarer, has been recruited to play drums. As a man of percussion myself, I naturally gravitate towards that aspect of musical pieces, and what Mr. Seidel has to offer on this album is truly something that blows me away. Give the album an honest listen. It has heavy, it has beauty, it has it all!

Favorite track: Silurian: Age of Sea Scorpions

6. Vein – Errorzone

Yeah. Yup. Uh-huh. Mmhmm. You fucking know it. Vein has been releasing ear splitting music for a few years now, and to see them take off with the release of Errorzone is just straight up so fucking cool and heartwarming. Not only that, but it’s motivating too. Five normal dudes with a shared passion for hardcore playing alongside bands like Deftones and Thursday. Unbelievable. Alright, enough sentimental shit and on to the record itself. Ya’ll ever see that show Wild ‘N Out? Every episode starts out nuts, and somehow escalates into total fucking insanity by the end of the show. Yeah, that’s Errorzone. It just does not stop. I haven’t heard a better intro track than “Virus://Vibrance” since “What You Waiting For?” off of Gwen Stefani’s debut album. Keep spinning the record and you’ll come across sheer structured nonsense (Yes, it’s possible) with eerie interludes to give the listener a periodic break. The title track “Errorzone” is arguably my favorite song of the year. The melodic break about halfway through the track is totally reminiscent of earlier post hardcore vibes. Would not be surprised if these guys are into an array of bands ranging from The Locust, to older Underoath, to The Receiving End of Sirens.

Favorite track: Errorzone

5. Good Tiger – We Will All Be Gone

Hey, Alright. We have entered the top 5. The fucking MEAT of the list, and We Will All Be Gone might as well be a thicc, juicy ass, double stacked (vegan, obviously) burger from a moderately upscale restaurant. Fuck, man. This album gets better and better with every listen. Following the very successful debut album A Head Full of Moonlight, We Will All Be Gone expands on the super unique, and uniquely super, post hardcore-meets-progressive rock sound that Good Tiger has honed in on. The one thing that makes this record more outstanding than their previous is the flow of it. From start to finish, there’s this natural progression not only within the record as a whole, but also with every individual track. Song structure is at 100% sicko mode. The most notable part of this record is the wonderfully placed interlude track titled “Cherry Lemon”. Listen to “Nineteen Grams”, into “Cherry Lemon”, into “I’ll Finish This Book Later” for an absolute prime example of perfect track flow and placement. Aside from song writing, these motherfuckers know how to play their instruments too, which is a no shit statement considering the drummer was in The Faceless, both guitarists were in The Safety Fire, and the vocalist had a run with Tesserect for a bit. 

Favorite track: I’ll Finish This Book Later

4. Poppy – Am I A Girl?

There’s a reason why this is the only straight up pop record on my list, and there’s a reason why it has such a solid spot on my list. I’ll usually gravitate towards a few pop records a year, but Am I A Girl? has taken up so much of my goddamn time that I haven’t been able to explore other pop releases. I’ll be totally honest; I was super skeptical about this album around the time of its release. I guess I expected to fucking love it from the get go. It took a few whirls, but when that shit clicked, THAT SHIT FUCKING CLICKED, BRO. Unlike her previous album, Poppy.Computer, Am I A Girl? does not have a single song that isn’t a goddamn banger. Fuck, I’m bumping the song “Fashion After All” while I type this, and I’m taking 20 second breaks to slam some quick dance moves. It’s just that catchy. The key feature that separates Poppy’s music from other modern female pop artist’s is the strange, ominous vibes she incorporates into her tunes and persona. It brings an interesting spin to a genre that can be very mundane and cookie cutter. Poppy, if you’re reading this, I’m that one straight dude in the crowd at the LA record release show who kept blowing you kisses.

 
Favorite track: Play Destroy

3. Nightmarer – Cacophony of Terror

Talk about a motherfucking title that suits the music to a goddamn tee. This album is the soundtrack to losing your mom in the grocery store at the age of 5. It’s happened to most of us; that feeling of sheer doom and utter despair. It’s a dissonance of pure dread…. A Cacophony of Terror if you will (lol put me down). I think the reason why this album has resonated with me so well is because it’s almost like a continuation of War From A Harlots Mouth. Nightmarer is comprised of the drummer and guitarist of WFAHM, with a vocalist that offers enough contrast where you can separate the two bands. It’s also no doubt that Nightmarer offers a sound resembling death metal, as opposed to a more mathcore/metalcore sound that WFAHM had. Cacophony of Terror is NOT a WFAHM album, so I’ll shut the fuck up about them. What makes this album stand out compared to other death metal releases from this year is that every single song procures its own feeling, which definitely transcends the monotony that this genre can bury itself in. For example, tracks Like “Stahlwald” and “Ceremony of Control” operate at shit-pants pace, whereas tracks such as “Death” and “Cave Digger” give you the opportunity to control your bowels. That’s what this genre needs. It can’t be shit-pants level all the time. I only have so many pairs of trousers and undies!

Favorite track: Death

2. Inquinamentum: 8342

Listen, I’m a fairly emotional dude. I shed a light tear watching the royal wedding. The Notebook is like my 8^th favorite movie of all time. But let it be known that I’m a fairly tough dude as well. I work out most days of the week. I one time held my hand like an inch from a burning match for 5 seconds-ish. I’m like the perfect combination of heavy-duty and heart-rending (where the ladies at). With that being stated, it’s no wonder why Inquinamentum’s 8342 holds a number two spot on my best of 2018 list. This album takes black metal to a totally new level of dismal imagery and sporadic blare. I’m seriously surprised that Inquinamentum has not blown up by now. They’ve yet to release a flawed album, and as fictitious as it sounds, they’ve gotten better and better with each new record. 8342 captures everything I want in a black metal album. Generally faster paced songs, with beautiful tremolo picking, high pitched shrieks, melodic piano pieces, and an album art that portrays the musical content exactly. The general musical platform of this record is like a pure, yet bleak white brilliance with this beautiful flow of cool color that serves as a façade to the true nature of the record, *cough* *cough* refer to album art. A record to be blasted at the gym, but also at night while trying to fall asleep.
Favorite track: Halcyon

1. Hopesfall – Arbiter

Ah yes. And here we are. Numero uno – that’s number one for all my English speaking motherfuckers. Before I get into this tear jerking, absolute fucking masterpiece of an album, let me start off by saying that Hopesfall is the most influential band on my style of both playing and writing music. If it weren’t for this group, I would’ve never have gone through a second emo phase (which I’m still currently in, sorry mom), nor would I have discovered many of my other favorite bands in the process. Alright, enough fan boy shit; let’s talk about this record. Arbiter, the perfect blend of previous releases such as The Satellite Years and Magnetic North. Hopesfall took the very best of their heavier early years and more tamed modern style and concocted the best release that post hardcore has seen since 2005. I still get goosebumps running through songs like “C.S Lucky Ones” and “Tunguska” for probably the 200^th time. I still feel the blood rush to my head when tracks like “Drowning Potential” and “Bradley Fighting Vehicle” start up. Every fucking chorus to every fucking song on this record has gotten stuck in my head at one time or another since its release back in July. I’m a huge sucker for summer releases, I could not have asked for a better soundtrack to searing days, and invigorating nights, riding my bike down Santa Monica Blvd. Bill, if this album isn’t on your list I’m going to pee in your mouth.

Favorite track: Indignation and the Rise of the Arbiter

Other solid-ass releases:
Geisterfahrer – Demolition Fetish
At The Gates – To Drink From the Night Itself
Dimmu Borgir Eonian
Secret Cutter – Quantum Eraser
Dieux Des Cimetieres – Love Is the Law
Behemoth – I Loved You at Your Darkest
Chvrches – Love is Dead
Nicole Dollanganger – Heart Shaped Bed
Anochronism – Solitude
American Nightmare – S/T
Yashira – Shrine
Will Haven Muerte
Totalselfhatred – Solitude
Anatomy of A Bear – Alysu
EPs:
Needle Under the Nail – The Third Impact
Armed For Apocalypse – Palm Reader
The Secret – Lux Tenebris
Pyralis – Everything is Emptiness
Kailee Morgue - Medusa

Cult Leader w/ Primitive Weapons and God Mother @ Great Scott

    A show that went one until 1 in the morning that I actually stayed for? You know it. Cult Leader put out a monster of an LP this year and I didn't want to miss a thing. Supported by Brooklyn's Primitive Weapons and the Swedish Lunatics God Mother made for an interesting show, definitely not forgetting this one anytime soon.

God Mother

Genre: Mathcore/Grindcore/Crust FFO: Enabler, Torch Runner, Baptists

   So let me start with I've checked out God Mother after seeing their name on one of The Dillinger Escape Plan's final shows and I was impressed by what I heard. However I had no idea what to expect live.

     The band started with the vocalist taking the mic and stand and walking all the way to the front door of Great Scott which I'm surprised the wire was even long enough, and gave the ol' "Hello everyone we're God Mother from Sweden thank you for being here" and immediately began the song. The vocalist was screaming from where he was standing and constantly getting into everyone's face and doing random dances, from karate moshes, to country line dancing, to even ball room dancing. I was constantly looking back and forth from the vocalist to the band and the band had straight chaotic movements as well. Evetually the voclaist would even climb atop the bar, and then jump along to one of the tables on the other side of the room and start swinging from the chandelier.

   They stated "I know we can be obnoxious, but I want you all to know we have free health insurance so you don't have to worry".  He said this was lying down in a sexy pose on the ground. He also stated that they would never disrespect anyone's personal space. After this speech the band began playing, and the voclaist had two members of the crowd hold the microphone wire up and handed the mic to someone else in te crowd. The wire was held like a limbo bar and you guessed it, he got people to limbo.  He grabbed random people near him and limboed linking arms all while the band would play chaotic mathcore, I couldn't tell you waht song it was. I was one of the lucky ones he limobed with. Guess I can say I limboed to blast beats now. 

    All night God mother did crazy shit. One song the mic was getting passed around by people who didn't know the song, The vocalist would climb along the stage lights and hang upside down, even tango with members of the crowd, but for the last song, he somehow crowd surfed with only a quarter of the crowd that would come. I can't get over how incredible this was and it was their first Boston performance. Straight up I didn't think Primitive Weapons had a chance of showing these guys up.

Primitive Weapons

Genre: Progressive Sludge Metal

I was right.

Cult Leader

Genre: Mathcore/Metalcore/Grindcore FFO: Gaza, Dead in the Dirt, Baptists

A huge wave of nostalgia hit me here considering years ago I saw Gaza take this same stage. One reason I knew I had to stay for the whole thing. Cult Leader began at 12:00am on the dot. Last time I saw them was on the final Dillinger tour and the set up was the same, One bright light projected behind the drummer and I'm pretty sure the vocalist was wearing the same thing, a hooded leather jacket. They immediately began with the song I Am Healed. The sound was loud and heavier than I could've imagined. I had to be upfront for this one. The light shinig behind them gave off a dark aroma to the performance, and the vocals were more gutteral than the record. Once again that drummer drums thunder into my soul. That bass drum could start an earthquake. 

    With the chaotic songs of course the band would move spastic and chaoticly, but let me tell you, if you heard the new album, you know about the slow clean songs. This is what I wanted to see. Every instrumentalist in the band stared down at the floor and the vocalist almost looked like he was either wounded in battle trying to get out his last words, or straight up reading a depressing poem. Amazing how I can go from seeing malice and evil in someones eyes into regret and anguish. 

    A band of few words. Cult Leader do something I like and didn't speak between songs to keep the atmosphere alive. The most they did was say the song titles. LIke....Great I Am, which got that pit moving. For the most part all the older songs got a mosh moving, but the real climax of the night, was the last son, A Patient Man. Such small movements from each member for this long song, and such emotion from the vocals. Near the end he took off his leather jacket and began moving the mic as if a heavy part would erupt, but instead the song end with a sudden "Thank you".

Silverstein 15 years of When Broken is Easily Fixed w/ Hawthorne Heights, As Cities Burn, and Capstan

 

    Welcome back to your emo phase. Your parents don't understand you, you shop at Hot Topic, and the girl you like found someone else so you go cry in your room as you drown in algebra homework while the bands above play in the background. What an amazing experience this was. Most know that the Palladium is my least favorite venue but you know I had to go for this one.  Joining me was the King of MySpace, Dete Pugdale, and the triumphant return of Zach "The Cali Flash" Ganshirt.

Capstan

Genre: Post Hardcore/Emocore FFO: Story of the Year, Prostest the Hero, August Burns Red

Now I feel like I'm the only one that saw the flier for this tour and got wicked stoked mistaking Capstan for Caspian. I thought it was a little odd but after a closer look I realized who it really was. When they began, all you heard was piano until the rest of the band jumped in. At first I thought "Not bad, sounds like your average 2005 emo band" until Zach pointed out listen closely to the riffs. The riffs were almost jazzy and comparable to bands like Protest the Hero. Very impressive. I can see these guys reaching the same status as Silverstein in maybe like 5 years if they work at it. 

As Cities Burn

Genre: Emo/Post-Hardcore/Metalcore FFO: mewithoutyou, Norma Jean, Underoath

This was reason numero uno for the three of us being here. When was the last time you hear the words "As Cities Burn on tour" all in the same sentence? FRom what I understand, its the first full US tour they've done since 2008. Of course they began with '84 Sheepdog.

    I'm not gonna lie, I haven't listened to much other than Son, I Loved You At Your Darkest, but my opinion on '84 Sheepdog as well as the other non-metalcore songs played live is not what I expected. It was very passionate and I could compare it to Pianos Become the Teeth with the sound, dare I say even almost shoegazing. The one thing going through my mind is  90% of this crowd probably hasn't heard of these guys and aren't ready for the metalcore songs, well surely enough, after two emo songs and a new songs, we hear Onetwentyseven.

    The song began Immediately after the last and the crowd was thrown forward screaming along every song and that christcore breakdown got the mosh going. So much passion from the vocalists, basically double the amount of energy the had for the previous songs. The sound was too perfect, I couldn't even believe I was witnessing this. Immediately after came Bloodsucker pt. II. Double the enrgy from the crowd, and triple the energy from the band. The lighting was the same color as the album shining like rays from heaven judging you for your sins. I have never seen Zach so energetic in all the shows I've been to with him. For the end of the song we all threw ourselves forward as the vocalist stood atop the barrier throwing the mic into the crowd screaming in everyone's faces "ARE YOU THE MAN NOW THAT YOU GOT WHAT YOU WANTED!" and for the first time ever, Zach crowd surfed. After this set we were all officially cleansed of sin. What an incredible set by an Incredible band. They ended by saying "Thank you, see you in 2019".

Hawthorne Heights

Genre: Emocore, Post-hardcore FFO:  From First To Last, Funeral For a Friend, Senses Fail

    As Cities Burn are a tough act to follow but Hawthorne Heights I don't think will ever go wrong. Something tells me these guys will never fail to amaze me live. Appropriately beginning with This Is Who We Are, the crowd sang along crowd surfing and moshing to the break downs. Already tons of crowd participation from the start. The band seemed very calm and composed, it my opinion it made them seem more emotional.I thought it was funny that every talk between songs, made it seem like the set was over because of the amount of times he said "Thank you Worcester, we're Hawthorne Heights" They did state the last time they played in MA with Silverstein was at the ICC church in Allston.
    Evenyually, the band got everyone to hold up their phones with the flashlight shining to honor fallen friends, I recall one he mentioned being someone from Bayside. He stated that this why they write the music they write. I swear, these guys could make the manlilest of men cry. After his speech, the song Bring You Back began, and everyone kept the lights shining.
    If there's one song I was waiting for, it was of course, Saying Goodbye. I had to do it to 'em... you know crowd surf to the chorus. The were tears in my eyes as I was surfing atop the emocean, everyone probably thought it was raining. Once I got back down, someone came up to me and complimented my Shadows Fall shirt then stated he's loved Hawthorne Heights for 12 years now, then I got a good look at him and saw this kid was wearing a Novembre shirt. really glad I wasn't the only doom fan there.
    I thin you could guess what the finisher was.... Yep, Ohio. The emo anthem of middle school, high school, you name it.(Also should've mentioned their banner said "I used to listen to Hawthorne Heights in high school"). If you've seen Hawthorne Heights before, you know what was about to go down. Bodies flying for the stage, voices screaming the lyrics, and of course, tears flooding the venue.

Silverstein
Genre: Emocore, Post-Hardcore FFO: Funeral For A Friend, From First To Last, Story of the Year

   Let me begin by saying WBIEF is not an album I am very familiar with, I do enjoy it however (Big one for me was Discovering the Waterfront). THe lights were shut off as the band walked out and you hear a what sounded like an old movie sample that said a bunch of stuff I couldn't comprehend, then you hear it say, "Silverstein, When Broken is Easily Fixed" and the band began the album. Whatever energy the crowd had before skyrocketed to oblivion, no matter where you looked everyone was singing along, crowd surfing, moshing, the whole kit and kaboodle.
    If you know this album well, which I'm sure the old school fans do, you know about all the violin. Silverstein did introduce a guest violinist they had with them. Before they did this , I honestly thought the violin was sampled, it sounded so clear and natural you couldn't even tell the difference. Eventually they got to the song I knew best on the album"November" This song was so well done that the beginning riff sounded metalcore, and the breakdown was heavy and overly worthy of a mosh (No I didn't mosh). Everything about the set was spot on really. The vocals were even sung more high pitched like they are on the album. I am very impressed by how well they committed to this album.
   Eventually they finished the album, left the stage and then came back for the second set: Greatest Hits. They began with a newer one: Afterglow and an emo tsunami of crowd surfers spawned out of nothing. Then came my seventh grade anthem, Smile in Your Sleep. Adrenaline surged threw me the moment it started. Another tidal wave of crowd surfers began and riding atop the wave was yours truely. Zach pulled me aside and said, "The breakdown is coming, MOSH!" and I moshed to an emo band to probably the heaviest breakdown they played all night.
   The Three of us were wondering if Silverstein would do the infamous American Nightmare cover but it was getting late so we figure we'd see if it would happen after the song, Massachusetts. Unforunately it didn't. I'd say each set of the night was incredibly well executed as we all left the venue leaving a trail of tears and gaining a new faith in christianity. Thank the lord this night happened. Outstanding!

 

Anxious Wave Debut EP Review

   I was given the opportunity to write about Anxious Wave's new Ep before gets release so I said why the fuck not. I was very intrigued by the demo with the unorthodox hardcore punk sound and knew I would enjoy some new stuff. 

   With better production on this one, I can actually differentiate multiple influences I may not have realized before. Listening to this I could compare the sound to the classic punk bands I've mentioned before (Dag Nasty, Bad Brains etc.) but now with a little non single Nirvana type of stuff, and even hints of dare I say...The Blood Brothers? In my opinion, its there. Anxious Wave keep the furious funk punk style in check even more with this ep, sprinkle in some Blood Brothers style slow parts with the dissonance, and the aggressive Nirvana "Negative Creep" style riffs, mostly makes me think of that song.

   The first song gives off that eighties punk vibes with a nice bass line joined in by an anxious punk riff and some Rollins style vocals. Plenty of funk with that bass throughout the song and thats what just makes me think its a good time live. All I can think of is two step city. A good intro that wastes no time and jumps right in.

   Now the next song starts off like a Blood Brothers song I feel. Think of something like "Love Rhymes with Hideous Car Wreck" but not as obnoxious. Clean sounding guitars, and a smooth drum pattern. Now that I think of it, the whole song kinda reminds me of BB. The vocal styles in this one get passionate with some "Woah wo's" or whatever the fuck its called and still remain aggressive and hoarse. Guess you could consider this one a ballad.

   The next one is a straight punk sound, but blended together with that Rock 'n' Roll guitar style and some heavy bass. Gotta love the lyric "I'm sorry, all your friends are dead!" only to have that chorus lead into a hard slow breakdown that actually has tremelo picking. The tremolo only leads to a slower and heavier riff guarenteed to Bring Da Muthafuckin' Ruckus. I think this one is my favorite.

   The next song is another slower ballad style. I say ballad but don't worry its not melodic or anything. This one is still pretty dissonant and mirrors the BB style I mentioned, it does speed up at times and eventually leads into a heavy one chorded breakdown. This song is a pretty powerful wave of emotions with the sound.

    Time to get back into the chaos. The following tune starts off with an eerie sample and leads into a dissonant riff I don't even know how to describe. All anxiety inducing aggression in this song. the guitr patterns move up and down constantly but doesn't hide that groovy Rock 'n' Roll bass. Call it mosh city when you see it, The lyrics in this one seem pretty relatable too for bonus points.

     As for the last song, let's call it the Outro. This is interesting. All you hear is an eerie piano riff and quiet symbols along with some strange yelping, almost sounding like a cry for help. Kinda makes me think of a movie where someone is going through a lot of shit and the camera shows the sky and revolves around it while show transparent images of the character suffering. 

   So this is my experience with Anxious Wave's new Ep, I hate doing x/10 type of stuff, but take my word for it. My favorite type of hardcore is the bands that take the genre and use obscure influences to spice it up. Anxious Wave are a good example of it, I think what seperates them from the rest is the eighties vibes they give off.

   

The new EP will be available Nov. 23rd, write it down, bitch.

KEN Mode and Birds in Row w/ BEDTIMEMAGIC, and American Ethos @ ONCE Somerville

   I can't get over this flier, I love it. Almost as incredible as the show. A fantastic display of talent from each bands that, as American Ethos pointed out, do not have more than three members. I live for chaotic sludge like KEN Mode and Birds in Row I've been a fan of since my junior year of high school. Bonus points to Grayskull for the two openers who fit the bill like a pair of new socks on christmas morning.

American Ethos

Genre: Noise Rock/Hardcore Punk/Post-Hardcore FFO: Unsane, Uniform

So this one's gonna be short because I only caught the last three songs of the set due to my need for pizza (thanks Veggie Crust). American Ethos are more than what I expected, punk with alternate influences. From what I did get to see, the attitude from the music was shown well threw the bands movements. The feedback was loud and blaring only to go straight back into some angry punk rock riffs, and the vocals, gotta love it. Like a teenager beating up a cop with a skateboard. If you dig the odd side of hardcore punk, American Ethos show it off well.

BEDTIMEMAGIC

Noise Rock/Sludge Metal FFO: Kowloon Walled City, Fight Amp, Whores.

These guys were....interesting. Only a drummer and bassist were on stage, but the catch? They both wore a all over print pug face leotard. As silly as this was these guys were wild. Both did vocals, some of those riffs made you question if you were hearing a bass or guitar, and the drummer was also playing an organ. Goddamn! I mean if you're gonna play as a two piece, you really gotta make it worth everyones while, the odd time signatures and drastic changes along with it, the chaotic riffs, and the crazy vocals, these guys had it all. I'm only slightly surprised I'm only finding out about them now. Insane amounts of potential and talent in these two nutcases. Great way to gear us up for the chaos to come.

Birds in Row

Genre: Chaotic Hardcore/Screamo/Melodic Hardcore FFO: Converge, Dead Swans, Ampere

These guys in my opinion stole the show. Holy fuck. If theres one thing I thought I would regret, it was missing these guys at O'Briens, then I heard about this show originally at the middle east, and thought, I think I'd rather see them there. However, moving this show to ONCE was the best move for a band like this. The lighting shined down just behind them with faint colored lights as well and the atmosphere of the ballroom and the curtain behind them just makes the perfect image for them. The way Birds in Row played, you could just feel the passion they had with a hard hit of anguish from the sound and a glimmer of hope from the slower stuff. These guys were pacing back and forth, whipping their guitars around, and the guitarist broke a string after just the first song. They explained that some of their songs revolve around current events, for example how tragedies are hidden by numbers. Luckily for me they did play an old song, "Pilori" and the bands movements during the chaos was just plan spazzy, the bassist whipped his guitar around by the strap, and almost lost grip. Deathwish really knows some talented artists to sign and Birds in Row are a shining symbol of it.

KEN Mode

Genre: Chaotic Sludge Metal/Metalcore/Noise Rock FFO: Fight Amp, Helms Alee, The Dillinger Escape Plan.

Unfortunately I couldn't stay for the whole set. I caught probably the first half hour but again, holy fuck.  Canadian chaotic powerhouse is an understatement. KEN Mode have been a band for almost 20 years and with a ton of albums under their belt, they still got it. It was hard to even comprehend the songs just because of how rediculously sporadic they played. There were songs where they straight up played two basses and no guitar, you straight up could not tell. The sound was super muddy and the noise rock parts were scratchy with the amps blaring out. The sound quality was impeccable. They nailed every sudden time change and the chaotic stage presence is always a plus in my book. There were times where the vocalist would look directly into my eyes while yelling, I'm sure he did it to just about everyone in the venue but regardless what a magical moment. Even for a short probably half set I got to witness, I left more than satisfied and almost shaking from the vibrations. Pretty sure KEN Mode caused a minor earthquake last night.

Spectacular!

Kero Kero Bonito @ Brighton Music Hall

   Welcome back to your adolescent years where everything is fun and the world doesn't suck. KKB took us on a Kero Kero journey for the night and it was just what we all needed to escape the horrors of adulthood. Everytime I attend a show at BMH its always something on the aggressive side of music, this one was a good change of pace, even with their....surprises?

    There was an opener for the night who I didn't get the name of as they didn't do much talking, and when they did, it was hard to hear. Apparently the name was Tanukichan, and it is a solo project. While the sound was not my personal preference, it was still rather enjoyable. Very chillwave-esque with a hint of indie, very comparable to Mitski. The crowd didn't really seem to care, I think I heard them talking over her more than the music.

     Now if you've listened to KKB before, you know it's primarily the three people pictured above, two of them doing electronics, and one of them doing vocals. with the new album, the added guitars bass and drum, while keeping the electronics. This night, they played as a full band.

    The drummer was the first to come out and began playing a punk drum pattern, also would like to point out what my man Phil pointed out, the drummer was wearing a Darkthrone shirt. The guitar and bass followed suit, then the keyboardist, and finally Sarah, with her white her, and dark sparkling dress. They opened with the first song off Time 'n' Place, "Outside". The curse of Brighton Music Hall took effect and you could barely hear her sing at first. 

    I couldn't tell but it looked like Sarah was pulling props out of a bag/box or something, inbetween songs she pulled out a stuffed flamingo and held it straight up in the air, I'm sure you know what that means. They immediately began the song "Flamingo" with the crowd clapping and singing along. Luckily the curse wore off and we could hear Sarah clear as day. she danced around with the flamingo holding it on her head or shaking it over the crowd. You could tell she is just a child who never wanted to grow up. The song did sound vastly different due to being played with live instruments and personally, I found it more enjoyable.

    Upon playing "Only Acting" was the first of the biggest surprise Sarah brought. If you know the song you know the glitchy noise parts, and how it almost sounds like shes screaming, I can confirm that she is screaming in the recording. Sarah let out death metal growls during these parts, and some of the noise parts I can compare to Full of Hell....I'm not kidding this really happened. The end glitch even played, and Sarah threw a garbage bag full of balloons into the crowd.

    KKB had many props this night. For the song "Break" Sarah took out a pink telephone during the phone call skit in the song with one of the other members. I can't get over the goofy look on her face when they did this. Other notable one was a stuffed frog(?) that she played with for I think two songs straight. Similar to the flamingo, she would dance with it, hold it on her head shake it over the crowd etc. When she put it back, she gave it a big smooch hoping it will become her prince. 

   KKB played mostly the new album and ended abruptly. They fans were screaming for more, until they came back, I bet you can guess what song they played....Time's up, it was "Trampoline". Again they played as a full band with the song sounding incredibly different, this was amazing though. The crowd shouting every word and once the chorus hit, everyone jumped up and down as if the flooor was a trampoline. the end of the chorus where Sarah echoes the word "bounce", she death metal growled it again while the band played a riff similar to a breakdown.....again I'm not joking. I had to turn to Neil and just say, "Dude am I wrong or is KKB heavy!?". She let out more death metal growls throughout the song and the crowd just cheered louder each time, the even progressively played fast to the point where the drummer was playing d-beats in the end.

   I've never been to a show where I've had a smile on my face the whole time to the point where it hurt. KKB really know how to make you feel young again and are a perfect escape from reality. I gotta say, this experience really showed me KKB know a lot about music and could really be making whatever they want. Also Sarah's growls could easily impress Corpsegrinder.

The TA13OO Tour: Denzel Curry w/ City Morgue

    Denzel Curry took us all to the darker side of town last night with his unbelievable performance. I knew the moment I finished listening to the newest album that it would be something to see live so of course I couldn't miss out. 

    Beginning the show was a group called City Morgue consisting of two rappers who introduced themselves as: KillaZami and Sosmula. I bet ZillaKami sounds a little familiar right? Any way, these guys were ignorant. There was a projection screen flashing their logo behind them. They had a pretty short set for rap I think clocking out after 30 minutes. Every song ZillaKami would force that pit open and would constantly stage dive. Tons and Tons of energy from these two. At one point, the two of them ordered that the crowd split into two for what he said "a tribute to the best band ever". They pointed two each side and said "You! Fuck them up! And You! Fuck them up!". They began a countdown and to my surprise Spit it out by Slipknot began playing with the two of them screaming along. 

    City Morgue prepared the crowd for the last song and brought multiple people from the crowd on stage only to nose dive back in, the two rappers followed behind while continuing the song. Upon finishing their final song, City Morgue gave one big goodnight as Heretic Anthem began playing with another wall of death spawning forth.

    A single mic stand stood in front of the stage as the projection screen showed a red curtain with the words ACT I. The lights dimmed and after a large applause, Denzel walked out wearing a hawaiian shirt, visor, and tightish black jeans. The curtain on the screen opened as Denzel began Taboo|TA1300, revealing images of Denzel holding Black ballons with a smile on his face in different heavenly backgrounds. If you've listened to the album, you know it works in three acts with the album getting darker as it progresses. He immediately proceeded into the next song on the album and then brought it back with a few older songs. His dancing and movements got more and more fierce the moment he began Sumo|Zumo. As you would expect, the crowd followed suit with each song, bouncing, moshing, and rapping/screaming along. I gotta give this crowd some props, the pit had me worn out to the point that I had to chill on the balcony.

    After Sumo|Zumo, Denzel walk off stage as the lights dimmed once more and the projection curtain closed and presented: Act II. Denzel came back and the curtain opened revealing a black and white background with images of Denzel with his black and white paint (as seen in Clout Cobain|CLOUT CO13A1N). He then began the next song, Switch It Up|ZW1TCH 1T UP with the crowd singing along. Denzel began to actually yell and scream the lyrics and would do the classic hip hop countdown to get more energy flowing. If anything he actually sounded borderline pissed during SUPER SAIYAN SUPERMAN|ZUPER ZA1YAN ZUP3RMAN when yelling "KILL SHIT KLL SHIT MY NAVY SEALS SHIT!" with the beat hitting hard and Denzel's sporadic movements. 

    Before one of my personal favorites of the album, Denzel stated that it is an important one to him and gave his praise to the guest feature J.I.D. That's right, SIRENS|Z1R3NZ. Unfortunately the song was cut short due to J.I.D.'s absence and faded away as Denzel chanted "fists up!'. I don't think there was a bigger sing a long than CLOUT COBAIN|CLOUT CO13A1N. A song about depression is something I'm sure we all relate to. I was deeply amazed at how Denzel goes from aggressive to heartfelt just like that. Almost like flipping a switch. Denzel stated that one song almost didn't make it on TABOO|TA13OO, I don't remember which, but the proceeded to play "The Black Balloons that didn't make it on the album." Denzel walked off once more as the lights dim, and the projected curtain closes.

    The curtain was projected: ACT III. Denzel walked back on stage with his posse this time including City Morgue, as the curtain opens revealling a darker background, this time with Images of Denzel, covered in blood or upside down in a straight jacket. Welcome to hell bitch. As you should know, Act III is the darkest one with his most aggressive songs. I should state he did not play these in order. I thought Denzel was angry before but the speed and anger when he performed PERCS|PERCZ was insane. You could see the darkness in his eyes and his movement was even more spastic and fast. At one point, he yelled X's up at the crowd. This was to honour his fallen friend xxxtentacion. I will put my personal opinion aside about xxxtentacion for the sake of the reader's opinion. I recently learned in Denzel's most recent interview that the two were once roommates/best friends so it only makes sense. he proceeded  to cover two of his songs (I don't listen to xxxtentacion, I don't know the songs) with his image projected on the screen. I'm sure you could guess a majority of the crowd were getting heavily involved as well as Denzel's posse shouting along with their own mics, especially ZillaKami. He then proceeded with the over-memed song Ultimate. I gotta admit, the beat for these songs made me feel like I was seeing a doom metal band with how hard it hit. Denzel yelled at the crowd to split in two, and it parted like the red sea as you hear the beginning to my personal favorite song on the album, BLACK METAL TERRORIST|13 M T. The moment the beat hit and Denzel started rapping, the crowd was anarchy. If you got sucked in, you weren't coming back. The way he was screaming, and the chaotic movements would make you think he's fucking possessed. It was absolutely wild. The song ended the lights shut off and every body walked off stage. 

    The crowd needed more and wouldn't leave until they got it. After much praise and chanting. The prejection screen revealed Denzel's face with blaring red eyes with the word "Encore" beneath it. He proceeded to the stage with his crew once more and played two old songs. I'm sure you noticed what song off Taboo I haven't mentioned. Well guess what, the crowd has been waiting for it all night. That's right, he closed the night with VENGEANCE. The crowd got back into the chaos ensuring one more endless, gigantic pit, and yeah you guessed it, ZillaKami did his guest spot and thats what made me realize who he is. Denzel and ZillaKami were grabbing people on stage and would follow suit in jumping into the crowd. When the song ended, the two placed the mics on the ground and gave them there energy Dragonball Z style as they both walked out.

   What an incredible night. People have mentioned to me how they've seen Denzel upstairs at the Middle East and while I was not there, I'm sure this was just as fantastic and maybe even next level with the visuals. I give Denzel my praise for being a hero that mainstream rap needs with his art.

    

Pumpkin Spice Playlist 2018

Welcome back to Halloweentown. Last year the fall/halloween playlist was the first playlist I did and it was such a hit, I made playlists a thing for the blog. Here are some additional installments to add to last year's. this time I'll throw the spotify link here including stuff from the previous playlist and more, since Pete ask me to do this. Enjoy!

AFI - The Art of Drowning
Genre: Hardcore Punk/"Horror Punk" FFO: Misfits, Bad Religion, Alkaline Trio


'Last year we started with AFI so of course We're doing it again. This was the last album AFI released before going emo. This one wins best artwork in my opinion and features the classic aggressive Misfits style with attitude. We all love AFI.

The Autumn Offering - Revelations of the Unsung
Genre: Metalcore FFO: Unearth, Darkest Hour, Caliban


If there's no metalcore, it ain't my playlist. The Autumn Offering is more than appropriate for the fall in more ways than just the name. These guys got riffs that are like sun rays thru the trees in a state forest. At least that some images that come to my mind. Welcome to 2004 bitch.

Joey Bada$$ - B4 DA $$
Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap FFO: MF Doom, Nas, Mobb Deep


I love this album for many reasons: Nostalgic even though its newer, emotional, passionate, relatable, the list goes on. I couldn't feel more at peace walking around Boston just before dark in the cool windy weather with a hoodie and earbuds jamming this album. The sight of graffitti and tall buildings surrounding me was ideal. Joey is the hero today's rap needs.

Devil Sold His Soul - A Fragile Hope
Genre: Metalcore/Post-Metal/Zachcore FFO: The Ocean, Rinoa, Poison the Well


Holy fuck this album is incredible. I was listening to this recently in a light rain while watching leaves blow in the wind and it fit the music perfectly. Easily one of the most underrated bands and albums ever. Imagine if The Devil Wears Prada decided to collaborate with The Ocean and they wrote everything while drowning.

Christian Death - Only Theatre of Pain
Genre: Post-Punk/Death Rock FFO: Bauhaus, Alien Sex Fiend, Joy Division


The legendary and highly influencial release from the great Christian Death. Ironically these guys are playing a Halloween show this year, felt appropriate to include them on here. Most darkwave artists consider this a monument to their sound, and it shows. Take some time out of your day and understand the meaning of goth.

Melvins - Stag & Stoner Witch
Genre: Experimental Sludge/Stoner/Grunge/Punk FFO: Boris, Nirvana, Weedeater, Mr. Bungle


The Melvins have a massive discography that most don't finish in their lifetime and I guarantee there's more halloween/fall related ones. On top of that, they have probably the most unique styke I have ever heard considering it changes with almost every song. I have been on a huge Melvins binge recently and so far these two caught my eye for the season best. A fantastic combination of heavy  fuzz, grungey grooves, weedy moods, and silly tunes. When you jam the Melvins, you get a perfect doseage of talent and humor.

Denzel Curry - TABOO|TA13OO
Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap/ "Horror Rap" FFO: Danny Brown, Vince Staples, Lil Uzi Vert


A while back I got a text from Billy Mourned saying "Dude I know you're not really into him, but I think you'll dig Denzel Curry's new album" and surely enough, Billy doesn't steer me wrong. I love this album just from one listen. If the artwork doesn't hype it enough for you, just know it gets darker and angrier as it goes on. This is one album I've been listening to a lot this year and it definitely screams Halloween more than most. Hopefully gonna catch Denzel at the Paradise soon.

Isabella Amarga - Confinement
Genre: "Dark Pop"/Indie FFO: Lana Del Rey, Zola Jesus


My friend/super talented artist Casey Valentine introduced me to her friend Bella and her music as well and all I can say is her style is unique and fantastic. Bella has a soothing and beautiful voice and its matched with a dark electronic background almost as if you're listening to a siren's song in the middle of the woods. Its as beautiful as it is eerie, I got the opportunity to experience her music live and it was just as incredible as it is on record.

November's Doom - The Pale Haunt Departure
Genre: Death/Doom Metal FFO: Opeth, October Tide, Evoken


I feel November's Doom is a band many know the name of but not the music and those who know the music don't think of a certain album. Personally I don't think they have a bad release. I'm sure you could tell by the cover, this is a fall album. November's Doom are all about sorrow and The Pale Haunt Departure personify it in the most melancholic way possible. This album will cause spirits to haunt you forever and you'll be to far into despair to even notice.

Lingua Ignota - All Bitches Die
Genre: Noise/Black Metal/Avant-Garde/Ambient FFO: The Body, Full of Hell, Revenge


This is an absolute horrific masterpiece in the most beautiul form of art. This album instantly begins with chaos, and softens up with operatic parts. basically the whole album goes from chaos to ballad and its done very well, Looking forward to seeing her live.

vein - errorzone.
Genre: Experimental Metalcore/Mathcore/Alt metal FFO: The Dillinger Escape Plan, Thumbscrew, Deftones


vein are taking over the world. The release of Errorzone earlier this year gave them mass appeal from basically every crowd of aggressive music fans. This album keeps the dissonant and chaotic horror movie hardcore sound in check and better than ever. Some have been comparing them to nu metal, but I gotta say I disagree.

The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal
Genre: Death Metal FFO: Arch Enemy, At the Gates, Behemoth


The gothic artwork says it all. My second favorite Black Dahlia album after the great Unhallowed. This album will cause everything to go black. Nocturnal was an album with a stronger black metal influence than the others but still with the classic Black Dahlia style that only they can really pull off.

Bauhaus - The Sky's Gone out
Genre: Post-Punk/Goth Rock FFO: Siouxsie & the Banshees, Joy Division, The Sisters of Mercy


Bauhaus redefined goth and gave it a darker meaning with the release of the song "Bela Legosi's dead" which is unfortunately not featured on this album. The Sky's Gone Out still has the nihilistic and depressing vibes that remove all color from your surroundings. The album even can get flamboyent at times.

Cult of Luna - Somewhere Along the Highway
Genre: Atmospheric Sludge/Post-Metal FFO: ISIS (the band), Neurosis, The Ocean


This is a personal one for me. If you need more city fall vibes, throw this on driving down mass pike, and when you get to the city you just feel the wind blow in your face and you enter a new world from the monolith of a song, "Dark City Dead Man". I've experienced this already and plan on it again soon.

Himsa - Courting Tragedy and Disaster
Genre: Metalcore FFO: Darkest Hour, God Forbid, Light This City


Himsa were an old school metalcore band to start but eventually became more At The Gates-esque with their sound. This album is no exception. One thing I notice that Himsa do is the manage to make the signature metalcore riff sound even more evil as well as add in some blackened tremolo picked riffs. Throw Himsa on in your car and you'll feel like you're driving a hearse.

The Body - I Have Fought Against it, But I Can't Any Longer
Genre: Avant Garde, Noise, Sludge, Experimental


Nobody is more terrifying than The Body. The duo really out did themselves with this one with many many guest features of all talents to create a dark musical masterpiece. This one I would call their best release yet and is a good escape from reality with the experimentation even from the original sound the Body is known for.

Ampere - Like Shadows
Genre: Screamo/Emo Violence FFO: Pageninetynine, Orchid, Jeromes Dream


For me, fall ain't fall without screamo. In high school this was a routine. Ampere features members from Orchid, Kindling, and probably more bands and the sound is destructive as it is emotional. If you wish Orchid could come back, Ampere is a perfect substitute.

3TEETH - <shutdown.exe>
Genre: Industrial Metal FFO: Sister Machine Gun, Youth Code, Chemlab


This one may be new, but its an instant classic. You don't hear about industrial music enough. 3TEETH are a band that brings heaviness to the gothic world of industrial music. Most probably know them from the final H.I.M. tour but I discovered them through the collab they did with HO99O9. The band is very eerie sounding and will put you into the setting of an abandoned warehouse only to be ambushed by robots.

Neurosis - Given To The Rising
Genre: Atmospheric Sludge/Post-Metal FFO: Cult of Luna, ISIS (the band), Amenra


I feel this Neurosis album gets overlooked but I'm telling you its a goodie. Much like A Sun that Never Sets, this one features a folk influence to add to the dark atmosphere that Neurosis bring with each album. If you really need an adventure, read along to it.

Ritual Howls - Into the Water
Genre: Darkwave/Post-Punk/Gothic FFO: Drab Majesty, Cold Cave, Night Sins


For the past year and a half, I dove deeper into darkwave and what a journey it is. Ritual Howls is a good gateway for people that don't know it well. I recall many falling in love with Drab Majesty's latest release, I recommend checking this one for a darker mood and diving into the darkwave void for more.

Will Haven - S/T
Genre: Metalcore FFO: Snapcase, The Banner, Vision of Disorder


Will Haven's self titled release is a dark venture into old school New York style metalcore. The lyrics are much darker, and the riffs have the structure of Snapcase with some evil attitude right in your face.

Witchfinder General - Death Penalty
Genre: Doom Metal FFO: Black Sabbath, Cathedral, The Obsessed


If you couldn't tell from the past couple of reviews and instagram posts, Bill's Rock 'n' Roll Weekend worships doom just as much as metalcore. Witchfinder General are one of the original Sabbath worship bands along side Vitus, The Obsessed, and maybe even Pentagram. If your into raw evil riffs with a good blues influence a.k.a. Sabbath style, Witchfinder General is for you. Usually if theres boobs on a metal album cover, its at least a 7/10.

Raein - Il n'y a Pas De Orchestre
Genre: Screamo FFO: Loma Prieta, Suis La Lune, Joshua Fit For Battle


Legendary skramz nerds from France constantly remind me how worthless I was in high school. I would listen to Raein on rainy days when I would be walking 2 miles to get to school. This band has some depressing lyrics that actually are in english, whether you understand or relate is up to you. The album translates to "There is no band" if you didn't know.

Morbid Angel - Altars of Madness
Genre: Death Metal FFO: Cannibal Corpse, Pestilence, Obituary
 

Classic death metal. Morbid Angel have a select number of albums I enjoy but I have the generic favorite of this one. No gimmick just straight up evil ass death metal.

October Tide - Rain Without End
Genre: Death Doom Metal FFO: Novembers Doom, Saturnus, Swallow the Sun


October Tide are from the same era as Novembers Doom and have a very similar sound. I find it humourous because of their names. October Tide is rather melancholy but slightly more melodic than Novembers Doom. Consider this caption basically the same as Novembers Doom's.

Ash Code - Perspektive
Genre: Industrial/Darkwave/Gothic FFO: The Agnes Circle, Youth Code, Ritual Howls


Euro goth powerhouse Ash Code released this masterpiece earlier this year and I've had it on repeat ever since. These guys manage to make darkwave slightly more heavy but keeping the gothic darkwave background. Warning:: This album will spawn sunglasses onto your face while its dark out.

Suis La Lune - Quiet, Pull the Strings!
Genre: Screamo FFO: Raein, Orchid, Touche Amore


The best screamo bands don't come from the states. Suis La Lune are Swedish skramz underdogs who kept the game going with a emo as fuck album like this one. I wish this style was still relevant but there's a good chance it never will.

The Fall - This Nation's Saving Grace
Genre: Post-Punk FFO: Suicide, Magazine, Siouxsie & the Banshees


Why not end it hear, a playlist about the fall season, ending it with The Fall. This band has a vintage punk rock feel as one of the original post-punk bands to form in the 70s. Mostly a political vibe but the tunes are good for cool weather under any setting. The Fall is best listened to during the fall.



Happy Halloween Bitch.