Deafheaven, Drab Majesty, & Uniform @ Royale

   My third time seeing Deafheaven and they still refuse to disappoint. The moment I saw Drab Majesty and Deafheaven on the same flyer, my jaw dropped. This lineup is something out of a dream, and what a dream it felt like. A night full of friends, lights, noise, and dreams.

Uniform

Genre: Industrial/Noise Rock/Sludge FFO: Helmet, Whores., Unsane

   Before this show, I only heard Uniform's collaboration with The Body which I was impressed by, I never heard anything by only Uniform. The band played as a three piece: drum, guitar, and vocals. All around soundwise was great quality, with a slight electronic effect coming from the drums if I heard it right.The vocals were raspy with an echo like an early aggressive grunge band. I couldn't help but think of Helmet when comparing the sound all together.

    There was one song they played where the guitarist broke a string but manged to finish the song all the way through. While fixing this Technical difficulty, the vocalist talked about how he grew up in Natick and how the only landmark was the Natick Mall (still kind of is). 

   Personally I was rather impressed by the band. Not too many bands like to do a Helmet type of sound and mixing with noise rock elements as well as industrial influences is a gold star in my eyes.

Drab Majesty

Genre: Darkwave/Post-Punk/Synth FfO: Depeche Mode, Joy Division, Ritual Howls

   Now this was the big reason I was here. Many many people I know considered The Demonstration one of their favorites of 2017, and very few caught Drab at the Middle East last year ( I was also not one of them).  All we could think of is what are the costumes and make up gonna be. After setting up the equipment, the duo went backstage to get into costume which took like a half hour. They walked out in unison wearing white leather jacket and pants as well as giant spaceman style shades and white wigs. These people know more than a thing or two about image.

   They began and the projections behind them turned on showing what looked like colorful tv static fading in and away. The electronics were pounding and made you feeling like a beating bass drum while the radiant guitar melodies soothed you down and equalized it. This paired up with the lighting effects bouncing off their reflective clothes made for an outstanding stage presence. Something I never knew was they both do vocals but manage to sound almost exactly the same and with the strong echo and harmonic singing, well I'm sure you could imagine. 

   If you are impressed by the music of Drab, you will be blown away by them live. This was an experience like no other. Drab Majesty earned their own title as: "The cream in the this oreo of a tour" as the said it.

Deafheaven

Genre: Post-Black Metal/Shoegaze FFO: Alcest, Bosse De Nage, OathBreaker

  

   Now I know its a generic thing to hear from a lot of people but Deafheaven are a favorite of mine and ever since I first saw them with Envy, I always thought they were one of the best sounding live bands there is. Tonight was no exception. Opening strongly with the new single "Honeycomb" anarchy instantly formed in the pit. Like most, Deafheaven like to play more newer songs when they come out, so they opened with two singles and the reaction from the crowd was very strong. The shoegazing elements were very strong and paired up with their own projection of what appeared to be visions of the city, some of them even had puppies. Nothing can compare to hearing Sunbather songs live in my opinion, considering George's voice is more emphasized than it is in recordings. 

   If you've seen Deafheaven before, you've seen the energy George has when he performs. For the most part he would be leaning over the crowd as he screams but during the instrumental interludes, his movements are comparable to a conductor to an orchestra. He had a few more flamboyant moves here and could move those hips well. Deafheven ended with the last song off the new album, "Worthless Animal" then walked off stage only to have one of the guitarists come back to play the piano intro to the first song on the new album, "You Without End". Deafheaven went on to play "From the Kettle onto the Coil" then of course ended with "Dream House". 

   Now all throughout the set, kids were moshing, mic rushing, crowd surfing, even stage diving which I believe is the reason why Deafheaven have been jokingly given the term "Hipster Black Metal" but you can't deny that energy is like no other. Dream House especially was the most chaotic set for the crowd. You know there was tidal wave for the mic durin the "I'm Dying..." part and I just had to join in and do a backflip on stage. Needless to say I love the Deafheavens. Outstanding!

Summer Playlist

   Summer is here, so it's time for another playlist. In the summer, we're all about beach, sun, chilling, skating, and partying. Expect a good portion of each of these in this one. Not too much aggression, but most of these were also what Neil and I were jamming on the way to Philly to see Sumerlands last summer.

UPDATE:
I have made a playlist based on this post on Spotify here
And I figured my skate playlist would also be relevent so BOOM
Both playlists are being constantly added to as time goes on and contain material from this post. Enjoy, share, tell your friends!

deafheaven - Sunbather

Genre: Post-Black metal/Shoegaze FFO: Alcest, Harakiri for the Sky, OathBreaker

I do my best to start with the obvious. deafheaven's reputation skyrocketed with this release giving them a less metal fanbase and made every metal fan basically think they're mediocre. Well fuck those kids. I listened to this album while on vacation in mexico on the beach and fell asleep and had weird visions of my body being engulfed by the sun. The tropical scenery mixed with the soothing riffs makes perfect for the summer.

Deftones - Around the Fur

Genre: Post/Alternative Metal FFO: System of a Down, Hum, Refused

Chino stated that the artwork for each Deftones album reflects the colors he envisions when he hears the music. For Around the Fur, the colors mixed with the actual art makes for a beach night. I mostly thought this one belongs here because of the song My Own Summer, but you can't go wrong with the rest of the album. First Deftones album I ever bought, still one of my favorites and always will be.

Best Coast - Discography

Genre: Surf Rock/Punk/Indie FFO: Wavves, Beach Fossils, Surfer Blood

You wouldn't expect me to say it, but Best Coast are one of my favorite bands ever. Nothing can compare to the happy songs these guys bring. Each album is flawless just talking about relationships, beachy things, California, and just happiness in general. Bonus points for having tons of cats in one music video as well.

Superorganism - Self Titled

Genre: Experimental/indie FFO: Japanese Breakfast, Frankie Cosmos

Earlier this year, Superorganism released this amusing LP that took a few listens for me to get into. Multiple different sounds and instruments are incorporated in this album. At first when I checked it out I thought "I need to be more prepared for this next time". This is not your average indie album. This band is ridiculously talented. I want to compare it to Mr. Bungle but its on the other side of the spectrum but its basically the same idea. It's weird, but so weird you can enjoy it and appreciate the musicianship and creativity even more.

Agent Orange - Discography
Genre: Surf Punk FFO: Descendents, Black Flag, Wavves


We're all about Tony Hawk games and we know it. Agent Orange were an early punk rock band who were basically the first to mix it with surf music. As long as there is some kind of board under your feet, Agent Orange is playing in the background.

Acid King - III

Genre: Stoner/Doom Metal FFO: Electric Wizard, Bongzilla, Windhand

Heavy heavy heavy. Love some heavy and raw stoner metal? Look no further. Acid King are a rare one that actual talks about negative experiences with drugs. I know I'm a straight edge kid and all that but this is still one of my favorite genres. Go to your special spot in the woods, stare up at the sun, and trip your fucking balls off.

Title Fight - Floral Green

Genre: Hardcore/Emo/Indie/Pop Punk FFO: Make Do And Mend, Crime in Stereo, Westpoint

Title Fight's transition into shoegaze began with this album in my opinion. You can definitely hear the beginning of the change in sound. Unlike the previous two albums, Floral Green demonstrates more emotional riffs and lyrics but keeps the punk structure, however one thing will never change: Ned's raspy punk voice. Classic. This is a skate jam with the sun blaring in the sky and you got shades on because you're that cool.

Only Living Witness - Prone Mortal Form

Genre: Heavy Metal/Hardcore Punk/Grunge FFO: Corrosion of Conformity, Twitching Tongues, Life of Agony

. 

Though short lived, Only Living Witness left a big mark on hardcore. Twitching Tongues got their name from a song on this album and the influence shows. I feel these guys get overlooked a lot. I was just listening to this album driving down the Mass Pike in 90 degree weather and it just felt right. I just remember I couldn't decide if I wanted to listen to metal or punk, and Only Living Witness met it halfway. If these guys weren't on a Tony Hawk game, I would be very surprised.

Me and that Man - Songs of Love and Death
Genre: Country/Bluegrass/Folk FFO: Sun Kil Moon, King Dude


Me and that Man is the genius masterpiece from the mind of Behemoth frontman/madman, Nergal along with  fellow Polish musician John Porter. This isn't the stupid bullshit "I love america and fuck my guns, don't tell my wife/sister" country, this is "My thoughts into music with a dark atmosphere" Country. Similar to King Dude with the dark background and bluegrass influence but dare I say Nergal takes the country side further. It's as enjoyable as it is unexpected.

Wavves - King of The Beach
Genre: Surf Punk FFO: Best Coast, Surfer Blood


I think this one is pretty self explanatory.

Kyuss - Blues for the Red Sun
Genre: Stoner Rock/Metal FFO: Church of Misery, Orange Goblin, Red Fang


Kyuss is a desert soundtrack. Any day over 90 degrees calls for Blues for the Red Sun. The doomy background mixed with a strong blues influence makes a heatwave more tolerable. I personally threw this album on while driving on the highway in the most recent heatwave we had and the timing could not be better. Need another reason? This was Josh Homme's (Queens of the Stone Age) first band.

Kero Kero Bonito - Bonito Generation
Genre: Kpop/indie/Electro  pop w/Hip Hop influences


Summer calls for KKB! This album is essential for the season. No matter what the atmosphere, as long as the sun is out, its time for Bonito. Every song is filled with fun, happy, positivity that will keep you smiling and dancing all the way through. With the power of synth, various electronics, hip hop beats, occasional Japanese lyrics, and all around catchy verses, you will know every song from one play through. If you give this album a listen, you must finish it.

Botanist - VI: Flora
Genre: Experimental Post-Black Metal/Shoegaze FFO: deafheaven, Panopticon, Alcest


Think deafheaven, but with a floral theme. Botanist comes from the creative mind of Otrebor. He claims when writing, Otrebor channels a second personality who he calls "The Botanist". This album features unconventional instruments that in all honesty, shouldn't even make it sound like a black metal band. The one thing that will come to your mind is flowers blooming and insects flying from listening to this. Go on a nature walk and enjoy your surroundings while Botanist provides the background.

Sleigh Bells - Jessica Rabbit
Genre: Noise Pop FFO: Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Phantogram
 

Another unconventional project. You really don't hear about many bands that break boundaries in pop music. This would be expected from a former member of Poison the Well when he decides to make pop music. The whole album keep a pop structure but ties together noise rock, punk, metal, and synth influences to make the sound Sleigh Bells is known for. Here's your new favorite.

Bad Brains - Self Titled
Genre: Hardcore Punk FFO: Black Flag, Minor Threat, 7Seconds


There ain't nothing like the obnoxious punk force that is Bad Brains. These guys are the god fathers of hardcore. Without them, well I'm sure you know. This is a good one to skate to. If you got that "Attitude", then go get "Banned in DC". The reggae songs are a decent break only to be followed by more energetic punk madness.

Frankie Cosmos - Next Thing
Genre: Indie FFO: Japanese Breakfast, (Sandy) Alex G, Petal


Now this is your road trip album. If you got a long drive ahead of you, the time will fly by and you'll be there before you know it. Not because it's long, but because it's just that type of album. Frankie Cosmos soothing voice and guitar tones will make you zone out and you'll be there before you know it. You could listen to other releases but this one is my personal favorite.

Talib Kweli - Quality
Genre: Hip Hop/Rap FFO: Mos Def, Juelz Santana, The Roots


This was a jam for me back in the day. Quality is an album that makes you dance. All the way from front to back, its a roll down your windows and blast full volume jam. Full effect comes from the song "Shock Body".

Alcest - Shelter
Genre: Shoegaze/Ambient


Alcest always have had a shoegaze influence, but unlike everything else, Shelter excludes the black metal sound entirely. Most were turned off by this album, but me, well I was more than impressed. This I believe is the best representation of the "fairy land" Neige talks about throughout the project. All I can think of is a magical garden with colorful flowers that could only come from imagination, with the sun shining through the trees. In a way, this is basically Alcest's own Sunbather.

Culture Abuse Bay Dream
Genre: Indie Punk FFO: Fucked Up, Joyce Manor, Best Coast


Culture Abuse released this album about a month ago and it just screams surf, sand, and California. You are guaranteed a good time with Bay Dream. Had a fun time night beachin' to this album with the brothers from hell in Mourned. Warning: You will Bee Kind to the Bugs.

Cloudkicker - Let Yourself be Huge
Genre: Progressive rock/Instrumental/Post-Rock


Cloudkicker is more known for the more djent-y side of music, however Let Yourself be Huge, while still containing a metal side, has much nicer sounding melodies as well as acoustic and cleaner songs. Its tough to talk about an instrumental album, but take my word for it. This is another one where the artwork makes it feel like summer, but the music just adds to it and speaks for itself.

Adolescents - Self Titled
Genre: Hardcore Punk FFO: Descendents, Black Flag, Circle Jerks


More fast punk music to skate to. Adolescents often get overshadowed by others who sound just like them, but don't let it keep you from jamming them. Seeing these guys at the Black 'n' Blue Bowl in NYC was definitely an experience especially consiering they played after Madball, what a shift in energy. Speaking of energy, this album is equivalent to one large coffee.

Motorhead - Discography


Get in the car and just keep fucking driving. Ride like hell!

Soundgarden - Superunknown
Genre: Grunge/Stoner Metal FFO: Alice in Chains, The Melvins, Black Sabbath


Soundgarden get overlooked as a heavy band more often than they should.Like Kyuss, I would consider this one another desert anthem. Obviously you got the hits that everyone knows, but 80% of this one is doom. Don't believe me? Just listen to "4th of July" aka the heaviest song Soundgarden ever wrote. Get your feel of rock 'n' roll and doom from Superunknown. The Sabbath influence is so strong you could literally taste it.

Teenage Wrist - Chrome Neon Jesus
Genre: Indie/Shoegaze/Alternative FFO: Nothing, Superheaven, Sonic Youth


The name of this album made me fall in love immediately, the music matches it well. This is the type of album to hear when your walking along Boston at dusk with the view of the Charles River on your right and the road on your left. Halfway through, you'll be sitting on the railing on the bridge just staring into the water. You can hear different influences all around ranging from Dinosaur jr. to My Bloody Valentine. This one is making my top albums list this year. Fantastic!

nothing,nowhere. - ruiner.
Genre: Cloud Rap/Emo FFO: Lil Peep, Lil Lotus, American Football


nothing,nowhere. release this LP shortly before his tour. The whole thing gives a nostalgic feel to someone like me, and if you grew up in Foxborough, you probably feel it to. Cry along with Joe as he reminds you about the good ol' days, and brings you down about the current days. Best effect comes from listening at sundown with a skateboard under your feet.

The Beautiful Ones - Beautiful Crü
Genre: Hardcore/Alternative Rock FFO: Twitching Tongues, Superheaven, Deftones


I will never not love this band. The talent that they possess and the way they show it off is absolutely incredible. This ep in particular is four songs and an intro with each song sounding completely different. Whether its heavy or catchy, The Beautiful Ones always find a way to make their music, well.....beautiful. Even with the difference in sound, each song flows into the next very well giving you a change of scenery without even batting an eye. Lots of floral visuals and poetic lyricism is what these guys are all about. Beautiful.

Creepoid - Cemetery Highrise Slum
Genre: Noise Rock/Alternative FFO: Sonic Youth, Dinosaur jr., Nirvana


I wish these guys could've lasted longer than they did. Creepoid brought a big revival of the 90s  alt rock with Cemetery Highrise Slum. Good on a sunny day with friends if your just looking for a straight chill sesh. All the way through is a nostalgic jam of noisey, grungey paradise.

SZA- CTRL
Genre - RnB


SZA is a goddess. CTRL blew me away when it came out and I still remember when I first heard it. The tropical beats will spawn sunglasses onto your face and before you know it, you will be on your own private island sunbathing with your significant other. SZA brings good times wherever her music is played.

Passion Pit - Gossamer
Genre: Indie/Synth Pop/"Indietronica" FFO: The Naked and Famous, CHVRCHES, Matt & Kim
 

We all know Passion Pit. We all love Passion Pit. If you don't, you are probably an awful antagonizing person that no one likes. Passion Pit have never written a song that doesn't give a sense of euphoria to the listener. No matter what there's always at least one song by them people enjoy. Gossamer is that album that wakes you write up and gets you out the door to just enjoy your day and not be secluded from the world. Get out there and enjoy your life.

Church of Misery - Master of Brutality
Genre: Psychedelic Stoner/Doom Metal FFO: Blood Ceremony, Kyuss, Black Sabbath


Another one from Japan. If you've read my previous playlists, you know how impressed I am with Japanese bands. Church of Misery are actually less unique than the other Japanese bands I've written about, not to sound insulting. This band is all about two things: Serial killers and the blues. A strong Sabbath influence (as you can clearly tell by the album art) combined with old school 60s psychedelic blues influences, and seasoned with lyrics about your favorite serial killers. As an added bonus, this album features a Blue Öyster Cult cover. These guys are well known throughout the world for a reason.

The Bouncing Souls - How I Spent My Summer Vacation
Genre: Pop Punk FFO: Avail, No Use For a Name, GoldFinger


Get on you damn skateboard. Throw that record on just to make a sound. Consider this your "Private Radio". If you know this album, there's a 90% chance you've played Tony Hawk. If there's one thing I love about this album, it's the fact that its a pop punk album with "woah-oh's" in it, which for whatever reason doesn't happen anymore. Listen to the whole thing and your darkness will be gone.

Ride - Nowhere
Genre: Shoegaze FFO: Swervedriver, Slowdive, Chapterhouse


This was one of the albums that got me into shoegaze to begin with. Various different elements are portrayed in Nowhere and all together make it a good beach soundtrack. Visions of palm trees and sunny days will be brought to your mind. The percussion instruments are very intriguing and will catch you attention as well as all the different effect pedals.

Emma Ruth Rundle - Some Heavy Ocean
Genre: Neo Folk/ Ambient Indie FFO: Chelsea Wolfe, True Widow


The first time I ever saw Emma Ruth Rundle's name, it was on a flyer for a tour with Alcest when their album Shelter came out and around the same time, Some heavy Ocean also came out. I was very curious of Emma considering she was opening for a band I greatly adore and listened to this album and got hooked immediately. This is more ambient than her newest album Marked for Death, and her voice is absolutely thundering. It's clear why she was on the tour to begin with, along with the tour she also did with deafheaven a few years later. Despite the name, I think of this in a more nature setting than ocean.

He is Legend - I Am Hollywood
Genre: Post-Hardcore/Southern Rock FFO: Maylene & the Sons of Disaster, Glassjaw, Every Time I Die


I will never let you forget He is Legend. The band's first album features a perfect blend of sweet smoky barbeque, well grown herbs and seasonings, and a side of a cool refreshing smoothie featuring your favorite fruits. By that I mean, southern riffs, with the right amount of heavy, and a good protion of melody to wash it down. He is Legend is your summer barbecue anthem.

Cave In - Perfect Pitch Black & Tides of Tomorrow
Genre: Alternative rock/Metalcore (PPB), Space Rock/Alt. Rock (ToT)


Cave In are legends of Massachusetts music in general, not just metal and hardcore and you will never change my mind. Let's start with Tides of Tomorrow. This is a chill ep that was after the metalcore era of Cave In. A strong influence of 90s space rock bands is present mixed with the Stephen Brodsky vocal power as well as the smooth and strong riffs, and of course that drum pattern that is very unique to Cave In. perfect for a bonfire, the beach, or even a bonfire at the beach. Perfect Pitch Black was also after the metalcore era, however brought the influence back and managed to combine it with the current alt. rock sound. While the idea is rather unorthodox it surprisingly works perfectly. I feel this is the album most consider to BE Cave In. The one thing you will never beat is those unclean vocals by the late and great Caleb Schofield (R.I.P.).

Have Heart - The Things We Carry
Genre: Melodic Hardcore FFO: Verse, Modern Life is War, Bane


A favorite among every hardcore fan, and one of the finest Massachusetts has to offer. You know 'em, you love 'em. Multiple things come to mind with this album, mostly emotional things of course but that nature setting on the artwork makes it summer. Got a car full of friends? Throw it on and jam out.

Zola Jesus - Okovi
Genre: Darkwave/Indie/Pop


Zola Jesus is an incredible musician and put out one of my favorite releases last year. Okovi is a creative blend of different genres that is the type of album to play in the rain, and let it continue when it stops. Not much I can really say that I haven't already in my top 50 list from last year, but ZJ is your soundscape for the rain. Usually when J. Bannon books an artist, you know they're fantastic.

Against Me! - White Crosses
Genre: Punk Rock FFO: The Gaslight Anthem, The Flatliners, Alkaline Trio


If you're like me you loved playing Tony Hawk as a kid and the soundtrack shaped your taste. It is because of this, you try to find time to skate in real life and continue listening to bands you could hear on the game while you do. I don't believe I heard an Against Me! song on Tony Hawk, but I wouldn't be surprised. This band was one of the first bands that got me into punk music. Nothing says skate like white crosses. Listening to this while skating by the white crosses along the church lawn will make wanna smash them all!

Sonic Youth - Dirty
Genre: Noise Rock/Indie/Shoegaze


An argument I always bring up is Sonic Youth vs Dino jr. Personally I will always be a Sonic Youth fan, though both bands are outstanding. Dirty is number 7 of Sonic Youth's gigantic discography. SY has always been known as a noise rock band but show off multiple different shoegaze elements, as well as indie, and even grunge influence. You can hear the massive influence in many bands that exist today. Dirty definitely is a pinnacle for the band, and the song Theresa's Sound World is clearly what deafheaven ripped off. This album is a long one but the time flies by quick.

Poison the Well - Tropic Rot
Genre: Post Hardcore/Metalcore/Alternative FFO: Hopesfall, Cave In, Deftones


Poison the Well is better known for their heavier albums and because of that this one gets overlooked. The Tropic Rot is still a heavy one, but if the flower that blossomed from You Come Before You continued to grow, it would be this release. Poison the Well take their alternative rock/metal influence even further and actually introduce a few songs that could be on the radio. This is the type of album to hear the day after a rainy day where you can smell the rain evaporating from the pavement and the sight of puddles compliments it even more.

Carly Rae Jepsen - Emotion
Genre: Pop


Anyone that calls Carly Rae Jepsen a "one hit wonder" can fuck right off back to the 80's where they belong. On our way to Philly, Neil played an incredible song and made me guess who it was and for the life of me I couldn't do it. That song was "All That" by CRJ and I didn't believe him until I saw it on his phone. This entire album is a combination of love and partying and occasionally you get both themes in one song making it a dance party of love. Carly Rae's incredible talent will sweep you off your feet.

Blink-182 - Discography
Genre: Pop Punk


Let's be honest, you don't need a certain time of year for Blink 182, but the summer feels best for it. I'm pretty sure we're all familiar enough with the band to know what they're about. Consider it a combination of your Tony Hawk skate jam and the end of your summer romance before you decide pop punk is dead and listen to Slayer.

Black Sabbath - Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
Genre: Heavy Metal/Doom


Black Sabbath literally invented music so I really shouldn't have to say anything, but for whatever reason, some people don't believe it. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath is the album that comes to everyone's mind when thinking of the band (or rock 'n' roll in general [or music in general]). Throw it on in the sun and head into the woods and watch the demons rise.

Newmoon - Invitation To Hold
Genre: Shoegaze FFO: Pity Sex, Nothing, Whirr


You can't go wrong with the UK. I found out about this band throw a random flyer I got in a merch order I don't remember. This ep is only 3 songs but what a moment you will have. I listened to this album after being wiped out after skating for so long, and just threw it on, lied on the grass and stared up at the sky with clouds blocking the sun overlooking a lake. This ep certainly is magical.

Boys No Good - Never Felt Better
Genre: Pop Punk/Hardcore FFO: Four Year Strong, Such Gold, Kid Dynamite


I think out of every pop punk band this is the one I sing along to best. Boys No Good got their name from that Lifetime song and features members of Casey Jones and Kids Like Us. This is a forcefully aggressive album of pop punk with the catchiest lyrics and breakdowns that will leave you moshing with a smile. I've tried multiple times to find info but still haven't, but I do believe Josh James (ex-Casey Jones, ex-Evergreen Terrace, Eighteen Visions, Stick To Your Guns, XTRMST)  features in "So Far Gone", If not him, it sounds exactly like him. You could be walking down the street, driving, skating, biking, jogging, you name it. As long as the sun is out, this album will be at full volume and you will sing every word you hear and not care who hears. THERE'S NO PLACE I'D RATHER BE THAN HANGING WITH MY FRIENDS!

 (Sandy) Alex G - Beach Music
Genre: Experimental Indie/lo-fi FFO: Frankie Cosmos, Porches, Superorganism


Love him or not, you can't deny his talent. (Sandy) Alex G started from the bottom probably getting made fun of for his musical endeavors considering it is on the odd side, to selling out venues across the country. Beach Music isn't only for the beach. This ones also a good travel soundtrack. The different instruments incorporated into the album make it an experimental marvel for indie music. Alex G is nothing but a chill vibe for the summer.

Black Flag - Damaged
Genre: Hardcore Punk FFO: Bad Brains, Minor Threat, Circle Jerks


80% of the time I'm skating to Black Flag, I imagine Henry Rollins' chasing me like Wiley Coyote vs the RoadRunner and if he catches me he's just gonna pin me down and yell angry words in my face for all eternity. Motivating right? SPRAY PAINT THE WALLS!

Rollins Band - Weight
Genre: Post-Hardcore/Hard Rock FFO: Black Flag, Helmet, Danzig


While we're at it let's discuss Rollins Band. After Black Flag's disbandment, Rollins started his own project which might be the complete opposite of Black Flag. It's almost like sludge....rock? It's tough to describe but you've heard it before somewhere. One thing will never change and that of course is Rollins' angry ass voice and lyrics.

Alice in Chains - Dirt
Genre: Alternative Metal/Grunge/Stoner Metal FFO: Soundgarden, Melvins, Tad


Say what you want but you know this album is heavy. I always felt a more stoner metal vibe with Dirt than grunge. Jerry Cantrell is easily the reason Alice in Chains are who they are, Layne's voice made it more meaningful (R.I.P.). Here's another trip to the desert for ya. Dive right into the Dirt and you will find a heavy mix of grunge and metal that puts other 90's bands to shame.

Pelican - City of Echoes
Genre: Post-Metal/Instrumental FFO: Russian Circles, Giant Squid, If These Trees Could Talk


If you follow prog or post metal or even sludge metal in general, you've heard Pelican's name get thrown around often. I still regret missing their last tour. Instrumental music really brings out the best in musicians especially in this case. City of Echoes brings a few things to my head: Drowning peacefully, watching the sun set at the harbor, kayaking around noon in clear waters and looking straight below to see the fish swimming about. I could go on and I'm sure you could to. The best part of having no lyrics is the image could really be anything, in my case it happens to be nautical.

Zara Larsson - So Good
Genre: Pop FFO: Sia, Lady Gaga


Don't think the pop music is gonna stop anytime soon. Zach "Late Night Borsh" Ganshirt introduced this album to me with his top releases of 2017 and damn is it catchy. This one from front to back is a dance party waiting to happen. all I can think of is a beach party on the pier with flashing lights and this album playing, day or night. Get hip brah.

Descendents - Everything Sucks
Genre: Punk Rock FFO: Adolescents, Bad Religion, Circle Jerks


The punk rock dorks known as Descendents will always be a favorite of mine. I said previously Against Me! is one the ones who got me into the genre, but Descendents are the number one cause of my love for punk. All it is is young kids doing their thing whether it sucks or not. Everything Sucks follows suit with every Descendents release with the goofy and humorous Tony Hawk style skate anthems with every track being relateable but not to the point where it hits you hard. This album will subliminally make you kickflip.

Superheaven - Jar
Genre: Alternative Rock/Grunge FFO: Failure, Basement, Balance and Composure


You can name tons of albums that sound like this but I will always say Jar is better. Superheaven are another 90's revival that I hope comes back soon. The lyrics are relateable and will make you feel like everything is moving fast. When it comes to Run For Cover-esque bands, these guys always have been a favorite of mine. A perfect album for sundown.

Hopesfall - Arbiter
Genre: Space Rock/Post-Hardcore/Alternative FFO: Hum, Cave In, Poison the Well


The moment I heard the first single off this one it felt like summer. At the 4th of July Massacre Sponsored by the Mourned, Zach and I were discussing if Hopesfall should make it on this list and we both said: "Those new songs so far are very Summer worthy". I wrote this entry on the release date after listening to the album at work and our prediction was right. Hopesfall seemed to drop the metal aspect of their music and dive straight into space themed post-hardcore that make you question if its 2004. You will see an entire day fly by in an instant as you are launched into orbit from this one.

Bongripper - Satan Worshipping Doom
Genre: Stoner/Sludge Metal FFO: Belzebong, Dopethrone, Weedeater


Hail. Satan. Worship. Doom.

Camila Cabello - Camila
Genre: Pop/R&B


This wonderful songstress is one of the reasons I'm glad I haven't given up on the radio. Camila Cabello I view the same way I did with SZA last year. This is a new face to me, the music is soothing and powerful, and they both have a massively successful career ahead of them. Camila is a beautiful latin inspired fusion of pop and R&B that once again is a dance party that will warm your heart. Once your hear her voice, your jaw will drop.

Porches - Pool
Genre: Indie/Lo-fi FFO: Hovvdy, LVL UP, (Sandy) Alex G


Another interesting project that sparked my interest. As you could guess, this is a chill poolside album. What really did it for me is the keyboard electronics in the album. Porches will make you zone out and make the world feel really small.

Dead Kennedys - Give me Confidence or Give Me Death
Genre: Punk Rock FFO: Black Flag, The Casualties, Adolescents


Lets party Tony Hawk style...AGAIN!! Grab you skateboard! Spray paint that wall! Piss on that church! Flip off that cop! Punch that nazi! Dead Kennedys are here, time to stop giving a fuck!

Mastodon - Emperor of Sand
Genre: Progressive Sludge Metal/Rock FFO: Baroness, High On Fire, IntrOnaut


How about another desert jam? I think we've said enough about this album considering it was on 3 different top albums lists on this blog. Pretty obvious why its on this one too.

The Weeknd - Starboy
Genre: R&B


Whats that? You've never heard The Weeknd? Do you live under a fucking rock? Quick answer: Yes you do. Let my man fill you with a pool of emotion while you dance to some chill beats. Starboy is all about the late nights and flashing lights. Let's party and cry, why not?

Torche - Harmonicraft
Genre: Stoner Rock/Metal/Alternative FFO: Big Business, Floor, Baroness


Now this is a tough comparison. Torche always have the coolest album art (I don't care what you say) and it just makes you think: "What will this sound like?". The band actually would not appreciate the genre I label them as and appropriately label themselves as: "Thunder Pop". Oddly enough its an accurate tag. Harmonicraft does include a pop influence and its an aggressive force of thunder with it. This one is a skate jam as well as a travel jam. no atmosphere too specific, all you need is the sun.

Failure - Fantastic Planet
Genre: Space Rock/Alternative Rock FFO: Hum, Pearl Jam,Far


Another space adventure. Fantastic Planet features 17 tracks of space travel. While this theme exists, one cannot help but feel a sense of summer from the tunes. This one is a walk in the Boston Commons while staring up at the sky wondering whats out there. Gotta say though, you haven't lived 'til you heard this album from front to back live.

Circle Jerks - Wild in the Streets
Genre: Punk Rock FFO: Black Flag, Agent Orange, Fear


You already know. You're in the city, skating and destroying. Keith Morris' reputation absolutely did not die after he left Black Flag, if anything it stayed just as strong if not grown. Tony Hawk bitch!


Miley Cyrus - Younger Now
Genre: Indie Pop


I'm honestly shocked this album didn't get any media attention at all. Miley takes her music in a completely different direction since her freak phase with Bangerz. Younger now features more indie and even folk influences, I might even go as far to say country. Most people know I strongly dislike bullshit redneck country, but as a kid I had a crush on Miley and still think she's hot today. The album even features a song with Dolly Parton. This album is for the beach or the country side, you will get the same feeling from both landscapes.

Sumerlands - Self Titled
Genre: Heavy Metal FFO: Dio, Ozzy Osbourne, Eternal Champion


This album is everything. Sumerlands brought old school heavy metal back not too long ago and go damn did we need it. This one is both a hike and a great skate jam. Don't tell me you wouldn't see Bam Margera skating to this. No matter where you are, or what you're doing, Sumerlands will take you on an adventure and you will vanquish your foes.

Misery Signals - Of Malice and The Magnum Heart
Genre: Metalcore FFO: Shai Hulud, Poison the Well, It Dies Today


I know what you're thinking, and yes I was thinking of "The Year Summer Ended in June" when considering this one. In all honesty that song is depressing but the album as a whole is once again, a good one to skate to, but also while the end of summer nears, its a good one to jam and then reflect on the season. A nature landscape to go with it is a must.

Beastie Boys - Discography
Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap/Punk Rock


I don't care who you are, you like the Beastie Boys. Check that, you LOVE the Beastie Boys. Everything about them is a party which is why you gotta fight for your right. the unity of punk rock blended with hip hop was a genius idea concocted by these guys and I thank them for it every day.

Lana Del Rey - Discography
Genre: Indie/Pop


We'll end here with Ms. Del Rey. Lana is loved by all for every reason you can think of. Her music is the epitome of summer. I threw on Born to Die while in Mexico and the view of the entire beach and resort from my hotel room  was the perfect compliment to the music. There isn't a single song that isn't summer and personally I don't think she will ever release a bad album.

*BONUS*
BIG SHAQ - Mans Not Hot


The girl told me "Take off your jacket", I say "Babes, mans not hot!"