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Song of the Day 01/31/2025
"Orion" - Mastodon
Mastodon has proven themselves as a powerhouse for heavy metal, keeping a steady pace since their debut in 2002. Each new release doesn't outshine the previous nor does the one after that outshine the one from ten years ago. That is a rare thing for a band, and it might sound like a negative thing but it’s quite the opposite. Some bands have their "3 albums of pure gold" and then release 9 more albums that don't hit the same grade as those holy 3. Mastodon always puts out a steady flow of great albums, none that really change the world though I always know when it is time for a new Mastodon album I am gonna walk away impressed with what I took in. For my "new music Friday" I decided to get around to listening to their rarities compilation Medium Rarities. An album I have been meaning to get around to for a while since rarities tend to be one of the last places I go to a band unless I have already burned through their studio work and want to find the more hidden gems from a band. The album was a fun one mainly made up of live material, covers, soundtrack material, and B-Sides from previous singles. Not every track was a full zinger and some like "Cut You Up with a Linoleum Knife" from the Aqua Teen Hunger Force movie were plain odd tracks. Though what do you expect from this kind of compilation? What did grab me was their cover of Metallica's "Orion" from their legendary 1986 masterpiece Master of Puppets. I don't think Mastodon beat Metallica on this track, still a fun listen since "Orion" is monumental no matter who does it. I like their little swing on it with their signature Mastodon sound. It came right between their live takes of "Crystal Skull" and "Iron Tusk". "Crystal Skull" is already an intense song for studio work and this live version was no different and I don't even need to tell you how great "Iron Tusk" is, though if you are new to the band that is where I suggest you start, "Iron Tusk" will knock you the fuck out and that album Leviathan is some essential heavy music. Another fun track from the album was "White Walker" which was released on Catch the Throne: Volume II a compilation to promote the HBO show Game of Thrones. The band was obviously big fans and even had a cameo as some wildlings, so it is only fitting they do a song for the show, and the song is a great one with a mellow fantasy theme. Aside from a handful of tracks this is one of those compilations you can take or leave, but if you are a fan of the band you will get full enjoyment from it like I did. As for the track I think anyone who likes a heavy instrumental can get behind it, though like mentioned before it doesn't outshine Metallica's original version. Granted that thing showed off what made Cliff Burton the bass god of heavy metal, so it might be damn near impossible to overtake if anyone even tried. As for the Mastodon version, it is a great time and served me well to speedily check in inventory at my job. Enjoy!
Year Released: 2020
Album: Medium Rarities (2020)
Genre: Progressive Metal, Heavy Metal
Mood: Colossal
Perfect For: Casual listening, Focusing
Where To Next: "Don't Tread on Me" - Volbeat
Rating: 7/10
Mastodon has proven themselves as a powerhouse for heavy metal, keeping a steady pace since their debut in 2002. Each new release doesn't outshine the previous nor does the one after that outshine the one from ten years ago. That is a rare thing for a band, and it might sound like a negative thing but it’s quite the opposite. Some bands have their "3 albums of pure gold" and then release 9 more albums that don't hit the same grade as those holy 3. Mastodon always puts out a steady flow of great albums, none that really change the world though I always know when it is time for a new Mastodon album I am gonna walk away impressed with what I took in. For my "new music Friday" I decided to get around to listening to their rarities compilation Medium Rarities. An album I have been meaning to get around to for a while since rarities tend to be one of the last places I go to a band unless I have already burned through their studio work and want to find the more hidden gems from a band. The album was a fun one mainly made up of live material, covers, soundtrack material, and B-Sides from previous singles. Not every track was a full zinger and some like "Cut You Up with a Linoleum Knife" from the Aqua Teen Hunger Force movie were plain odd tracks. Though what do you expect from this kind of compilation? What did grab me was their cover of Metallica's "Orion" from their legendary 1986 masterpiece Master of Puppets. I don't think Mastodon beat Metallica on this track, still a fun listen since "Orion" is monumental no matter who does it. I like their little swing on it with their signature Mastodon sound. It came right between their live takes of "Crystal Skull" and "Iron Tusk". "Crystal Skull" is already an intense song for studio work and this live version was no different and I don't even need to tell you how great "Iron Tusk" is, though if you are new to the band that is where I suggest you start, "Iron Tusk" will knock you the fuck out and that album Leviathan is some essential heavy music. Another fun track from the album was "White Walker" which was released on Catch the Throne: Volume II a compilation to promote the HBO show Game of Thrones. The band was obviously big fans and even had a cameo as some wildlings, so it is only fitting they do a song for the show, and the song is a great one with a mellow fantasy theme. Aside from a handful of tracks this is one of those compilations you can take or leave, but if you are a fan of the band you will get full enjoyment from it like I did. As for the track I think anyone who likes a heavy instrumental can get behind it, though like mentioned before it doesn't outshine Metallica's original version. Granted that thing showed off what made Cliff Burton the bass god of heavy metal, so it might be damn near impossible to overtake if anyone even tried. As for the Mastodon version, it is a great time and served me well to speedily check in inventory at my job. Enjoy!
Year Released: 2020
Album: Medium Rarities (2020)
Genre: Progressive Metal, Heavy Metal
Mood: Colossal
Perfect For: Casual listening, Focusing
Where To Next: "Don't Tread on Me" - Volbeat
Rating: 7/10
Song of the Day 01/30/2025
"Must've Been High" - Supersuckers
The Supersuckers walk their own path, border lining between rock, punk, and alternative country. One thing I can say with confidence is they are the type of group that catches you off guard each time. The first time I was going through the albums that Sub Pop records put out I was shocked to find the hidden gem that is their album Must've Been High. Cow punk gold with half the tracks being instantly added to playlists and abused by my ears. This style is one of my all-time favorites to drive to, it has the country feeling that compliments the whine of the highway but it has that punk obscurity to really leave it standing out. Granted the band is a touch wacky, they don't try hiding their silliness but they also don't let that consume the sound much like some of the bands under the cow punk banner. I chose the song while driving home on the freeway, it was a mellow ride home thankfully, not too many assholes and not any cops (one in the same?) and my cruise control was keeping me steady as the countrified intro kicked off. I love an intro that can grab you and hold you. This one has a reminiscent sound to the start of a couple of Townes Van Zandt tracks. It instantly sets your heart at ease before the strumming sets your heart free. Another moment of snuggling down into my seat and lighting up a cigarette and just appreciating a moment of peace. "Roamin' Around" from the same album has the same feeling and it was a good runner up to this track for being selected as my song of the day. Though it is honestly hard to beat this track, it was one of those songs that I instantly fell in love with. They were one of the groups I was waiting to dive deeper into once the 1990's rolled around and so far I haven't been disappointed even if I already knew a good handful of songs. They are a hidden hero of the cowpunk world mainly with this album, and even with their lesser popularity they are respected within many punk circles alongside the hard rock crowd and even the rockabilly crowd, they have a varying sound but still keep their core style as some bastard child between ZZ Top, Steve Earle, Old 97's, AC/DC and Merle Haggard. While I think this is my favorite album of theirs I have listened to thus far both in my studies and on my own time there is a lot to dig about the others so don't just stop here and think all is well, if you dig it then dig more. I have always trusted Sup Pop's musical compass, that musical compass brought me to the Supersuckers years back and shows my trust in them is well-founded. So next time you go out for a cold drive late at night to get some beer, be sure to give this track a play. Tune in fade out.
Year Released: 1997
Album: Must've Been High (1997)
Genre: Alternative Country, Cowpunk, Country
Mood: Saddle Sore
Perfect For: Driving, Drinking, Relaxing, Getting ready in the morning, Wacky tobaccy
Where To Next: "In the Orchard" - Tiger Army
Rating: 8/10
The Supersuckers walk their own path, border lining between rock, punk, and alternative country. One thing I can say with confidence is they are the type of group that catches you off guard each time. The first time I was going through the albums that Sub Pop records put out I was shocked to find the hidden gem that is their album Must've Been High. Cow punk gold with half the tracks being instantly added to playlists and abused by my ears. This style is one of my all-time favorites to drive to, it has the country feeling that compliments the whine of the highway but it has that punk obscurity to really leave it standing out. Granted the band is a touch wacky, they don't try hiding their silliness but they also don't let that consume the sound much like some of the bands under the cow punk banner. I chose the song while driving home on the freeway, it was a mellow ride home thankfully, not too many assholes and not any cops (one in the same?) and my cruise control was keeping me steady as the countrified intro kicked off. I love an intro that can grab you and hold you. This one has a reminiscent sound to the start of a couple of Townes Van Zandt tracks. It instantly sets your heart at ease before the strumming sets your heart free. Another moment of snuggling down into my seat and lighting up a cigarette and just appreciating a moment of peace. "Roamin' Around" from the same album has the same feeling and it was a good runner up to this track for being selected as my song of the day. Though it is honestly hard to beat this track, it was one of those songs that I instantly fell in love with. They were one of the groups I was waiting to dive deeper into once the 1990's rolled around and so far I haven't been disappointed even if I already knew a good handful of songs. They are a hidden hero of the cowpunk world mainly with this album, and even with their lesser popularity they are respected within many punk circles alongside the hard rock crowd and even the rockabilly crowd, they have a varying sound but still keep their core style as some bastard child between ZZ Top, Steve Earle, Old 97's, AC/DC and Merle Haggard. While I think this is my favorite album of theirs I have listened to thus far both in my studies and on my own time there is a lot to dig about the others so don't just stop here and think all is well, if you dig it then dig more. I have always trusted Sup Pop's musical compass, that musical compass brought me to the Supersuckers years back and shows my trust in them is well-founded. So next time you go out for a cold drive late at night to get some beer, be sure to give this track a play. Tune in fade out.
Year Released: 1997
Album: Must've Been High (1997)
Genre: Alternative Country, Cowpunk, Country
Mood: Saddle Sore
Perfect For: Driving, Drinking, Relaxing, Getting ready in the morning, Wacky tobaccy
Where To Next: "In the Orchard" - Tiger Army
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/29/2025
"Come Sail Away" - Styx
I cannot express how much I adore this song; it is genuinely a perfect song through and through. Each time the song fully takes off I get goosebumps from its sheer beauty, imagery, and power. Styx had a long and successful career, plenty of songs to sink your teeth into and better yet there are plenty of great albums they put out. It took the band a couple of albums to fully find their footing but once they did it was pure gold for close to ten years. One of the classic rock groups that are still gathering more and more fans no matter the generation. They are settled into the 1970's rock sound but have a style that has a timeless appeal and leaves you wanting more. I like the more progressive side of the band though that doesn't mean the mainstream sound is any less powerful, it just comes down to personal preference. "Come Sail Away" has proved to be one of the band's most well known tracks and it is easy to see why. Like I said previously, this song is damn powerful and slowly sucks you with the piano singing along with vocalist Dennis DeYoung. Calming the soul and getting you day dreaming of the open waters and times gone by, before finally blowing up and sockin' it to ya 2 and a half minutes into the track. One of those songs that to do it justice you gotta play it loud and just kick your feet back and take it in. A great uplifting song with a rambler's soul that always grabs me. The Grand Illusion, the album this track comes off of, is crammed with everything a rocker could desire. We got some of the harder tracks, plenty of the progressive tracks, the mellow ones, and some with a straight forward mainstream rock sound. This album always rattles me to the core with its lyricism, it honestly feels like it was written in my soul especially tracks like "Man in the Wilderness", "Come Sail Away", and the mystical but right to the point lyrics of the title track "The Grand Illusion". The first time I played through the album I had it casually playing in the background while playing some video games. As soon as "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)" got halfway through I remember I went and turned off the console like someone who just heard the word of God. Practically shaking, I sat back down and just listened through it and was like "holy hell". I was expecting a normal day but before I knew it, I was completely transfixed by the band. Next day I took on Pieces of Eight and the following I listened to Paradise Theater. I mean I already knew of the band, you would have to live under a rock to not have heard "Renegade" or "Too Much Time on My Hands" but I had yet to take the time to listen through an album. I just couldn't get enough of Styx, and now almost 11 years later I am still hooked and still get the chills each time I listen to one of their great albums. So when I heard that familiar piano intro take off when I was at work, I made sure to take the time to listen through the song with full attention, efficiency be damned when Styx is playing! This song is legendary so I am sure it isn't your first time, though if it is I envy you. Man, do I envy you! I wish I could relive my first time listening to this song with full attention and better yet listening through the album.
Year Released: 1977
Album: The Grand Illusion (1977)
Genre: Progressive Rock, Rock
Mood: Pensive
Perfect For: Deep listening, Day dreaming, Driving, Scenic drives, Inspiration
Where To Next: "Hitch a Ride" - Boston
Rating: 10/10
I cannot express how much I adore this song; it is genuinely a perfect song through and through. Each time the song fully takes off I get goosebumps from its sheer beauty, imagery, and power. Styx had a long and successful career, plenty of songs to sink your teeth into and better yet there are plenty of great albums they put out. It took the band a couple of albums to fully find their footing but once they did it was pure gold for close to ten years. One of the classic rock groups that are still gathering more and more fans no matter the generation. They are settled into the 1970's rock sound but have a style that has a timeless appeal and leaves you wanting more. I like the more progressive side of the band though that doesn't mean the mainstream sound is any less powerful, it just comes down to personal preference. "Come Sail Away" has proved to be one of the band's most well known tracks and it is easy to see why. Like I said previously, this song is damn powerful and slowly sucks you with the piano singing along with vocalist Dennis DeYoung. Calming the soul and getting you day dreaming of the open waters and times gone by, before finally blowing up and sockin' it to ya 2 and a half minutes into the track. One of those songs that to do it justice you gotta play it loud and just kick your feet back and take it in. A great uplifting song with a rambler's soul that always grabs me. The Grand Illusion, the album this track comes off of, is crammed with everything a rocker could desire. We got some of the harder tracks, plenty of the progressive tracks, the mellow ones, and some with a straight forward mainstream rock sound. This album always rattles me to the core with its lyricism, it honestly feels like it was written in my soul especially tracks like "Man in the Wilderness", "Come Sail Away", and the mystical but right to the point lyrics of the title track "The Grand Illusion". The first time I played through the album I had it casually playing in the background while playing some video games. As soon as "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)" got halfway through I remember I went and turned off the console like someone who just heard the word of God. Practically shaking, I sat back down and just listened through it and was like "holy hell". I was expecting a normal day but before I knew it, I was completely transfixed by the band. Next day I took on Pieces of Eight and the following I listened to Paradise Theater. I mean I already knew of the band, you would have to live under a rock to not have heard "Renegade" or "Too Much Time on My Hands" but I had yet to take the time to listen through an album. I just couldn't get enough of Styx, and now almost 11 years later I am still hooked and still get the chills each time I listen to one of their great albums. So when I heard that familiar piano intro take off when I was at work, I made sure to take the time to listen through the song with full attention, efficiency be damned when Styx is playing! This song is legendary so I am sure it isn't your first time, though if it is I envy you. Man, do I envy you! I wish I could relive my first time listening to this song with full attention and better yet listening through the album.
Year Released: 1977
Album: The Grand Illusion (1977)
Genre: Progressive Rock, Rock
Mood: Pensive
Perfect For: Deep listening, Day dreaming, Driving, Scenic drives, Inspiration
Where To Next: "Hitch a Ride" - Boston
Rating: 10/10
Song of the Day 01/28/2025
"Rock the Night" - Europe
Europe is one of those essential bands to anyone that is taking the dive into the 1980's. Their massive hit "The Final Countdown" has been used in everything from movies to condom commercials. Plenty of tracks from that same album also had a successful run into the modern day and "Rock the Night" is one of them. I think it may be the best track on the album which is saying something since The Final Countdown is a damn good album full of great tracks especially the singles that spurred from it. Not the type of album it is easy to get bored of, track after track they keep the same sound but with that much power it is damn near impossible to not get behind it. "Rock the Night" may not be as simply epic as "The Final Countdown" but it in my opinion is a much better song. I am a fool for tracks written for rocking the hell out and this track checks off all the boxes on the rock quality check. Originally released as a single from the soundtrack of 1985's On the Loose in a more raw form, it was a pain to find that version though with a little YouTube searching I eventually found it. I think I like the more polished and pretty version from the album release. That overly polished sound is what set Europe from the legions of glam/pop metal bands during 1986. A super commercial sound that let them walk away with multiple platinum sales across the globe. I won't lie though, when it was time for me to tackle the 1980's I knew it was time to take in all of the Europe albums I could get my grubby fingers on and I wasn't all that excited. Bands that have one album that blew the hell up and then they slowly faded out was the 1980's way of rock and I was worried it would be the same for them. Though from their first album I knew they were more than just "The Final Countdown" in every single album. I was shocked to find some crazy riffing, great lyrics, and obviously the intense vocals of Joey Tempest. The three albums they released in the 1980's were honestly some of the best for each year they came out in. There is nothing wrong with "The Final Countdown" but I didn't want a rinse and repeat of the same thing. Even within this album there is enough switching it up that it keeps you interested and if I haven't mentioned it before, it is a damn powerful album, epic even. So rock the night till early in the morning light with Europe, if this track doesn't sell you then maybe you should pick up a rock history book and smack yourself on the head with it.
Year Released: 1985
Album: The Final Countdown (1986)
Genre: Hard Rock, Pop Metal
Mood: Energetic
Perfect For: Casual listening, Playing loud in the middle of the night on the highway, Cliché 80's themed parties
Where To Next: "Unchain the Night" - Dokken
Rating: 8/10
Europe is one of those essential bands to anyone that is taking the dive into the 1980's. Their massive hit "The Final Countdown" has been used in everything from movies to condom commercials. Plenty of tracks from that same album also had a successful run into the modern day and "Rock the Night" is one of them. I think it may be the best track on the album which is saying something since The Final Countdown is a damn good album full of great tracks especially the singles that spurred from it. Not the type of album it is easy to get bored of, track after track they keep the same sound but with that much power it is damn near impossible to not get behind it. "Rock the Night" may not be as simply epic as "The Final Countdown" but it in my opinion is a much better song. I am a fool for tracks written for rocking the hell out and this track checks off all the boxes on the rock quality check. Originally released as a single from the soundtrack of 1985's On the Loose in a more raw form, it was a pain to find that version though with a little YouTube searching I eventually found it. I think I like the more polished and pretty version from the album release. That overly polished sound is what set Europe from the legions of glam/pop metal bands during 1986. A super commercial sound that let them walk away with multiple platinum sales across the globe. I won't lie though, when it was time for me to tackle the 1980's I knew it was time to take in all of the Europe albums I could get my grubby fingers on and I wasn't all that excited. Bands that have one album that blew the hell up and then they slowly faded out was the 1980's way of rock and I was worried it would be the same for them. Though from their first album I knew they were more than just "The Final Countdown" in every single album. I was shocked to find some crazy riffing, great lyrics, and obviously the intense vocals of Joey Tempest. The three albums they released in the 1980's were honestly some of the best for each year they came out in. There is nothing wrong with "The Final Countdown" but I didn't want a rinse and repeat of the same thing. Even within this album there is enough switching it up that it keeps you interested and if I haven't mentioned it before, it is a damn powerful album, epic even. So rock the night till early in the morning light with Europe, if this track doesn't sell you then maybe you should pick up a rock history book and smack yourself on the head with it.
Year Released: 1985
Album: The Final Countdown (1986)
Genre: Hard Rock, Pop Metal
Mood: Energetic
Perfect For: Casual listening, Playing loud in the middle of the night on the highway, Cliché 80's themed parties
Where To Next: "Unchain the Night" - Dokken
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/27/2025
"C'mon and Love Me" - KISS
It is pure blasphemy that a website built for the love of rock and roll is only barely getting around to including KISS! Who even runs this shit? Well, I am glad to say that KISS finally has a place in the song of the day blog. One of the most famous and highest selling bands to ever grace rock music, and the first to sell their soul completely for the all-mighty dollar. That gave them a certain reputation that has divided rock fans, throughout my years I have heard few other bands get hated on as hard as KISS. I honestly don't get it though; their music is great and easy to get behind. Also, all these people that scream "sell outs" while they push buttons on machinery in a shitty factory but in the end, cash is king, and KISS started out with dollar signs in their eyes well at least from what Gene Simmons says. Musically they really didn't bring anything too new to the table, but persona wise they pulled off a stage show that bands are still trying to replicate today. They were performers in the psycho circus! They lured legions of women with their sex appeal, they lured rockers of all walks with their hook laden rock music that came across your speakers in all the right ways. So, I don't take too much of what people say to heart about the band, they are legends and I think they earned that title with careful planning, presentation, and rock n roll. "C'mon and Love Me" isn't the ultimate place to start with the band, though with a career as long and successful as theirs it also isn't the worst. Dressed to Kill is sometimes regarded as one of the lower moments in their career due to financial hardships and poor recording. I think it serves as a great transfer point in their career to a more commercial and clean sound. Their self-titled (which I adore) and the follow up Hotter Than Hell served up some red hot rockin' but they took a step back with this album, but that step back was a step in the right direction for their path to everyone knowing their name and becoming a sensation that ruled the 1970's. They followed up this album with their first live album Alive! which is one of the best live albums in rock music to date. They had the money and notoriety to then put out their next studio album 1976's legendary album Destroyer which is a great album and holds a higher place in plenty of "greatest albums ever" lists. Though we are here with "C'mon and Love Me" and Dressed to Kill for today. Well, the title pretty well gives you the idea of the track, a straight forward rocker with classic KISS lyrics all about chicks they want to sleep with and chicks that wanna make it with them. I don't really need to explain KISS lyrics since they tend to be about sex, but that doesn't mean they don't have some that are well written and put together such as "Hard Luck Woman". Though sex sells, that is the way of the world and KISS weaponized it with guitars and drums. Even without the most inspiring lyrics the song is still a damn good one, it complements the feeling of the album and is a welcome addition to any of my playlists. It is one of the leading singles to come out of the album, the other being the rock staple "Rock and Roll All Nite".
Year Released: 1975
Album: Dressed to Kill (1975)
Genre: Rock
Mood: Lively
Perfect For: Casual listening, Having sex, Thinking about sex, Having a beer
Where To Next: "Shoot Shoot" - UFO
Rating: 7/10
It is pure blasphemy that a website built for the love of rock and roll is only barely getting around to including KISS! Who even runs this shit? Well, I am glad to say that KISS finally has a place in the song of the day blog. One of the most famous and highest selling bands to ever grace rock music, and the first to sell their soul completely for the all-mighty dollar. That gave them a certain reputation that has divided rock fans, throughout my years I have heard few other bands get hated on as hard as KISS. I honestly don't get it though; their music is great and easy to get behind. Also, all these people that scream "sell outs" while they push buttons on machinery in a shitty factory but in the end, cash is king, and KISS started out with dollar signs in their eyes well at least from what Gene Simmons says. Musically they really didn't bring anything too new to the table, but persona wise they pulled off a stage show that bands are still trying to replicate today. They were performers in the psycho circus! They lured legions of women with their sex appeal, they lured rockers of all walks with their hook laden rock music that came across your speakers in all the right ways. So, I don't take too much of what people say to heart about the band, they are legends and I think they earned that title with careful planning, presentation, and rock n roll. "C'mon and Love Me" isn't the ultimate place to start with the band, though with a career as long and successful as theirs it also isn't the worst. Dressed to Kill is sometimes regarded as one of the lower moments in their career due to financial hardships and poor recording. I think it serves as a great transfer point in their career to a more commercial and clean sound. Their self-titled (which I adore) and the follow up Hotter Than Hell served up some red hot rockin' but they took a step back with this album, but that step back was a step in the right direction for their path to everyone knowing their name and becoming a sensation that ruled the 1970's. They followed up this album with their first live album Alive! which is one of the best live albums in rock music to date. They had the money and notoriety to then put out their next studio album 1976's legendary album Destroyer which is a great album and holds a higher place in plenty of "greatest albums ever" lists. Though we are here with "C'mon and Love Me" and Dressed to Kill for today. Well, the title pretty well gives you the idea of the track, a straight forward rocker with classic KISS lyrics all about chicks they want to sleep with and chicks that wanna make it with them. I don't really need to explain KISS lyrics since they tend to be about sex, but that doesn't mean they don't have some that are well written and put together such as "Hard Luck Woman". Though sex sells, that is the way of the world and KISS weaponized it with guitars and drums. Even without the most inspiring lyrics the song is still a damn good one, it complements the feeling of the album and is a welcome addition to any of my playlists. It is one of the leading singles to come out of the album, the other being the rock staple "Rock and Roll All Nite".
Year Released: 1975
Album: Dressed to Kill (1975)
Genre: Rock
Mood: Lively
Perfect For: Casual listening, Having sex, Thinking about sex, Having a beer
Where To Next: "Shoot Shoot" - UFO
Rating: 7/10
Song of the Day 01/26/2025
"Change the World" - The Offspring
I have been an Offspring fan since I first found out how to operate a radio with a CD player. One of the bands that has followed me practically all of my life. Alongside my Green Day obsession, Gorillaz Demon Days, and the Beastie Boys the Offspring helped create the little shit that was Caleb. Simpler times when joy was as simple as pranks, chasing girls, playing the PS2, and listening to the radio. In a lot of ways a lot of those joys haven't changed all too much, though it was a simpler and easier time. I always laughed when people would say I will miss my childhood, and while I don't really miss it I do miss the simplicity of it all. I miss the time period too, when the cartoons seemed better and YouTube was full of dancing cats and the Badger Song was the shit. Now it is full of shit clickbait and cringe video thumbnails. Damn... do I sound old? Is this how it starts? I ain't even 30 yet! Sigh... Well anyways! The Offspring shows off just what can be pulled off with punk when you bring it to the masses. As their career moved along they started gravitating to a more rock/hard rock sound but for their first couple they dished out some quality punk rock and a little bit of alternative rock based tunes here and there. Following their hit record Smash the band was in a spot to keep up the momentum. Two years later here came Ixnay on the Hombre full of pedal to the metal tracks. Their lyrical content improved from the previous taking a more uplifting approach instead of the more adolescent pissed off lyrics that we hear on Smash. While Smash is a perfect album, one of my all time favorites, there is still a ton to love in this album. It isn't just the lyrics that seem more mature, the whole feeling of the album is a little less reliant on the snotty punk feeling. Well put together tracks that don't meld together as easily, a punk sound that’s easier for newbies to get into but core enough to not scare away the full blooded punkers. There is no doubting its spot in punk rock, even with the more mainstream appeal, since we have Jello Biafra (from the Dead Kennedys) doing the disclaimer at the start of the album in a very punk and well... Jello Biafra style. "Change the World" is the closer on the album and holds a "hidden" spoken word at the end of the track after about a minute and a half of silence. That is one thing I loved that bands did during the "CD" era, though it does confuse me each time those songs show up on my playlists, I always think my shit is glitching out and then bam! some random words or static. This is also the first chosen song on the website from me going through 1997. I finished going through thousands of songs from 1996 last week after taking a little over 3 months to finish out. It always feels so damn good to get another year done and start into the next one. Glad the Offspring is the first to be selected as I deep deep dive 1997. Expect to see more from that year just like it was with 1996, I will try not overcrowding the song of the day section with it, though if the song knocks me out that day I am still going to choose it.
Year Released: 1997
Album: Ixnay on the Hombre (1997)
Genre: Punk Rock
Mood: Energetic
Perfect For: Skating, Working out, Self destructive tendencies
Where To Next: "Down On the World Again" - Social Distortion
Rating: 8/10
I have been an Offspring fan since I first found out how to operate a radio with a CD player. One of the bands that has followed me practically all of my life. Alongside my Green Day obsession, Gorillaz Demon Days, and the Beastie Boys the Offspring helped create the little shit that was Caleb. Simpler times when joy was as simple as pranks, chasing girls, playing the PS2, and listening to the radio. In a lot of ways a lot of those joys haven't changed all too much, though it was a simpler and easier time. I always laughed when people would say I will miss my childhood, and while I don't really miss it I do miss the simplicity of it all. I miss the time period too, when the cartoons seemed better and YouTube was full of dancing cats and the Badger Song was the shit. Now it is full of shit clickbait and cringe video thumbnails. Damn... do I sound old? Is this how it starts? I ain't even 30 yet! Sigh... Well anyways! The Offspring shows off just what can be pulled off with punk when you bring it to the masses. As their career moved along they started gravitating to a more rock/hard rock sound but for their first couple they dished out some quality punk rock and a little bit of alternative rock based tunes here and there. Following their hit record Smash the band was in a spot to keep up the momentum. Two years later here came Ixnay on the Hombre full of pedal to the metal tracks. Their lyrical content improved from the previous taking a more uplifting approach instead of the more adolescent pissed off lyrics that we hear on Smash. While Smash is a perfect album, one of my all time favorites, there is still a ton to love in this album. It isn't just the lyrics that seem more mature, the whole feeling of the album is a little less reliant on the snotty punk feeling. Well put together tracks that don't meld together as easily, a punk sound that’s easier for newbies to get into but core enough to not scare away the full blooded punkers. There is no doubting its spot in punk rock, even with the more mainstream appeal, since we have Jello Biafra (from the Dead Kennedys) doing the disclaimer at the start of the album in a very punk and well... Jello Biafra style. "Change the World" is the closer on the album and holds a "hidden" spoken word at the end of the track after about a minute and a half of silence. That is one thing I loved that bands did during the "CD" era, though it does confuse me each time those songs show up on my playlists, I always think my shit is glitching out and then bam! some random words or static. This is also the first chosen song on the website from me going through 1997. I finished going through thousands of songs from 1996 last week after taking a little over 3 months to finish out. It always feels so damn good to get another year done and start into the next one. Glad the Offspring is the first to be selected as I deep deep dive 1997. Expect to see more from that year just like it was with 1996, I will try not overcrowding the song of the day section with it, though if the song knocks me out that day I am still going to choose it.
Year Released: 1997
Album: Ixnay on the Hombre (1997)
Genre: Punk Rock
Mood: Energetic
Perfect For: Skating, Working out, Self destructive tendencies
Where To Next: "Down On the World Again" - Social Distortion
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/25/2025
"Born to Move" - Creedence Clearwater Revival
Few do better travelling songs than CCR, honestly I can't really think of anyone who does. Their rhythm and style is perfect for all weather and all sorts of roads, they have the tracks that hit perfectly as you offroad, songs that mellow out a multiple hour drive, and songs that sound reminiscent to the highway itself. "Born to Move" as you could guess from the title, is a great traveling companion on the barren Utah desert highways even if the lyrics are actually about dancing. I chose the song after a long day of adventuring with my darling Alesha after we went to check out Cove Fort, an LDS fort that is in great condition after all these years and has had its interior restored to look like it did during its heyday in the late 1800's though what makes this fort more distinctive is its use of volcanic rock in its walls. A cool joint but the real joy came from the drive and feel of the wheel. Though once again I didn't choose this song while on the highways, it showed up as we got back in town going to a local greasy spoon that has always done us right. Hearing the organ taking off and groove along to the steady beat this rocker has already set up is a joy to take in. It gives you a spot to light up a cigarette and jive along with it all the way until the end of the song. Even though the song is relatively short coming in at 5:39 the song feels longer due to it being split into two parts, first being the stomping friendly rockin portion, when the music is loud I cannot get enough. Then the second half with the organ taking off and pure rhythm kicks your butt into gear. I mean the start of the track was trying to convince you to get down with it so it’s only fitting they give you a part of the song to do just that. It is no secret that I cannot dance to save my life, I feel the rhythm and the music in my soul! Though my feet bark in protest as soon as anything starts happening. I envy those that have the confidence to cut loose, I am often a stick in the mud when it comes to that stuff. Also is the organ really the best instrument to use for a dancing type of song? Once again I wouldn't really know. Anyways! Be it for traveling the roads or stompin’ those toes CCR always comes through and leaves you smiling. They are legends for a reason and pretty well all their studio albums aside from maybe their final album Mardi Gras (which still has a good chunk of quality songs) can be considered a greatest hits album in itself. These dudes had so many hit songs and genuinely flawless albums it is something to truly appreciate. They are a great band and one of the ultimate places to start for anyone wanting to deep dive a classic rock band. I cannot express my love for them enough!
Year Released: 1970
Album: Pendulum (1970)
Genre: Rock, Swamp Rock
Mood: Fun
Perfect For: Boogieing, Travelling, Good times, Having a nip of bourbon, Motorcycle rides
Where To Next: "Who Needs Ya" - Steppenwolf
Rating: 8/10
Few do better travelling songs than CCR, honestly I can't really think of anyone who does. Their rhythm and style is perfect for all weather and all sorts of roads, they have the tracks that hit perfectly as you offroad, songs that mellow out a multiple hour drive, and songs that sound reminiscent to the highway itself. "Born to Move" as you could guess from the title, is a great traveling companion on the barren Utah desert highways even if the lyrics are actually about dancing. I chose the song after a long day of adventuring with my darling Alesha after we went to check out Cove Fort, an LDS fort that is in great condition after all these years and has had its interior restored to look like it did during its heyday in the late 1800's though what makes this fort more distinctive is its use of volcanic rock in its walls. A cool joint but the real joy came from the drive and feel of the wheel. Though once again I didn't choose this song while on the highways, it showed up as we got back in town going to a local greasy spoon that has always done us right. Hearing the organ taking off and groove along to the steady beat this rocker has already set up is a joy to take in. It gives you a spot to light up a cigarette and jive along with it all the way until the end of the song. Even though the song is relatively short coming in at 5:39 the song feels longer due to it being split into two parts, first being the stomping friendly rockin portion, when the music is loud I cannot get enough. Then the second half with the organ taking off and pure rhythm kicks your butt into gear. I mean the start of the track was trying to convince you to get down with it so it’s only fitting they give you a part of the song to do just that. It is no secret that I cannot dance to save my life, I feel the rhythm and the music in my soul! Though my feet bark in protest as soon as anything starts happening. I envy those that have the confidence to cut loose, I am often a stick in the mud when it comes to that stuff. Also is the organ really the best instrument to use for a dancing type of song? Once again I wouldn't really know. Anyways! Be it for traveling the roads or stompin’ those toes CCR always comes through and leaves you smiling. They are legends for a reason and pretty well all their studio albums aside from maybe their final album Mardi Gras (which still has a good chunk of quality songs) can be considered a greatest hits album in itself. These dudes had so many hit songs and genuinely flawless albums it is something to truly appreciate. They are a great band and one of the ultimate places to start for anyone wanting to deep dive a classic rock band. I cannot express my love for them enough!
Year Released: 1970
Album: Pendulum (1970)
Genre: Rock, Swamp Rock
Mood: Fun
Perfect For: Boogieing, Travelling, Good times, Having a nip of bourbon, Motorcycle rides
Where To Next: "Who Needs Ya" - Steppenwolf
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/24/2025
"Steal Away" - Robbie Dupree
Robbie Dupree holds the title as one of the 1980s greatest one hit wonders, this track is an essential for anyone that likes the mellow side of the turbulent 80's. "Steal Away" is one of those tracks that play in every store, each restaurant and is casually playing in the background of the gas station as you grab your beer. "Steal Away" is Dupree's most essential song, second being his other big hit "Hot Rod Hearts" which is a teen love ballad that is reminiscent of the young long balladeering of the golden days of rock n roll. Still, even with the Americana lyrics and the mellow feeling it doesn't hold a candle to the titan "Steal Away". The song is strangely really similar to Kenny Loggins "What a Fool Believes" but going into the 1980's was pretty well a whole mess of copy and paste kind of songs. I don't mean that in a crude way, I think it is some of the appeal of the growing pains of the end of the 1970's. Shit, the 1980's is when America finally went over the deep end with its obsession with the all-mighty dollar and selling your soul for it. It seems like just about everything got commercialized into oblivion and it’s still getting worse each year. No matter what society might shout or what money, the root of all sin, might do to the fragile psyche of man we will forever have quality tracks that helps us forget our woes for just a little while and "Steal Away" has been an effective one, for me at least, since its release in the 1980's. A song full of lonely feeling lust, the feeling of the city lights hitting a perfect stranger's eyes on a restless summer night. A good song for daydreaming and really just a great song overall for lounging out and thinking of the past, present, and future. So while Robbie Dupree is mainly remembered for this song, it is a great song to leave behind for the future generations to find with its timeless lonesome city lights night feeling.
Year Released: 1980
Album: Robbie Dupree (1980)
Genre: Pop Rock, Soft Rock, Pop
Mood: Lusty
Perfect For: Relaxing, Making love, Driving at night, Desire
Where To Next: "What a Fool Believes" - the Doobie Brothers
Rating: 7/10
Robbie Dupree holds the title as one of the 1980s greatest one hit wonders, this track is an essential for anyone that likes the mellow side of the turbulent 80's. "Steal Away" is one of those tracks that play in every store, each restaurant and is casually playing in the background of the gas station as you grab your beer. "Steal Away" is Dupree's most essential song, second being his other big hit "Hot Rod Hearts" which is a teen love ballad that is reminiscent of the young long balladeering of the golden days of rock n roll. Still, even with the Americana lyrics and the mellow feeling it doesn't hold a candle to the titan "Steal Away". The song is strangely really similar to Kenny Loggins "What a Fool Believes" but going into the 1980's was pretty well a whole mess of copy and paste kind of songs. I don't mean that in a crude way, I think it is some of the appeal of the growing pains of the end of the 1970's. Shit, the 1980's is when America finally went over the deep end with its obsession with the all-mighty dollar and selling your soul for it. It seems like just about everything got commercialized into oblivion and it’s still getting worse each year. No matter what society might shout or what money, the root of all sin, might do to the fragile psyche of man we will forever have quality tracks that helps us forget our woes for just a little while and "Steal Away" has been an effective one, for me at least, since its release in the 1980's. A song full of lonely feeling lust, the feeling of the city lights hitting a perfect stranger's eyes on a restless summer night. A good song for daydreaming and really just a great song overall for lounging out and thinking of the past, present, and future. So while Robbie Dupree is mainly remembered for this song, it is a great song to leave behind for the future generations to find with its timeless lonesome city lights night feeling.
Year Released: 1980
Album: Robbie Dupree (1980)
Genre: Pop Rock, Soft Rock, Pop
Mood: Lusty
Perfect For: Relaxing, Making love, Driving at night, Desire
Where To Next: "What a Fool Believes" - the Doobie Brothers
Rating: 7/10
Song of the Day 01/23/2025
"Rocket Queen" - Guns N' Roses
There is no need to introduce the band, or this album really. Guns N' Roses are absolute legends! Pretty well all that legendary status rests on Appetite for Destruction, one of the best selling albums across the globe. Packed full of timeless and perfect songs leaving it being regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time! Most of their following albums are great too but they don't get even close to the impact this album had on the world. I chose the final track from the album today, and even the final song knocks you the fuck out. "Rocket Queen" starts off with a sexual feeling to it, the funk driven bass that Duff McKagan lays down lets you know what kind of song this is going to be. Written for Barbi "Rocket Queen" Von Grief, a chick that was really popular in the LA hard rock scene, popular especially with frontman Axl Rose. The song has more love and lust in store aside from just that though, the parts of the song that has the moaning and sex noises is actually legit. A perfect compliment to the guitar solo the moaning came from drummer Steven Adler's girlfriend of the time Adriana Smith. A stripper that hung around the band and was ultimately with Adler, but for the recording it was from an orgasm while having sex with Axl Rose. Shit is weird if you ask me, but that is how bands operated some of the time especially when the band is all about partying. The first time I read Slash's book I was a little disgusted by the fact but its been over ten years since and I have read a ton of other biographies and it turns out it is fairly common, you share everything in a band if you are trying to make it and I guess women are no different. Anyways, I love the lusty feeling of this track and it is a great way to end an iconic album. That chorus is addictive and fun to sing along to. The guitar is grooving and mesmerizing, and the damn bass line that follows the track keeps everything steady. Lyrically I dig how much work was put into it revolving around one chick though Axl Rose claims he wrote the song for a girl who was gonna start a band called Rocket Queen. Either way the song is great and the bold usage of sex in a mainstream rock sound was pretty bold for the time even if other bands have done it, but none of those bands hit the same fame as GN'R. I think I am equally as fond of the mellow part starting around the 4 minute mark, it really shows off how crazy Axl Rose is behind the microphone. Pure raw talent and emotion, just sucks he was scummy for pretty well all their career. "Rocket Queen" is one of the more thought out feeling tracks on the album, it doesn't force itself on you or keep strictly to hooks. The song is fun and well put together through and through, it keeps your attention the whole time with the song switching from a lusty feeling to ending on a love feeling, making it feel like after getting into her pants he got attached and fell in love. The song starts strong and ends even stronger, a nice showpiece for each member of the band. It is easy to see why they are one of the most respected and successful bands of all time. I am sure we will see more of them as the website moves on, can’t have rock n roll without Guns N’ Roses. Enjoy!
Year Released: 1987
Album: Appetite for Destruction (1987)
Genre: Hard Rock, Pop Metal
Mood: Lusty
Perfect For: Playing loud, Partying, Casual listening
Where To Next: "Night Songs" - Cinderella
Rating: 9/10
There is no need to introduce the band, or this album really. Guns N' Roses are absolute legends! Pretty well all that legendary status rests on Appetite for Destruction, one of the best selling albums across the globe. Packed full of timeless and perfect songs leaving it being regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time! Most of their following albums are great too but they don't get even close to the impact this album had on the world. I chose the final track from the album today, and even the final song knocks you the fuck out. "Rocket Queen" starts off with a sexual feeling to it, the funk driven bass that Duff McKagan lays down lets you know what kind of song this is going to be. Written for Barbi "Rocket Queen" Von Grief, a chick that was really popular in the LA hard rock scene, popular especially with frontman Axl Rose. The song has more love and lust in store aside from just that though, the parts of the song that has the moaning and sex noises is actually legit. A perfect compliment to the guitar solo the moaning came from drummer Steven Adler's girlfriend of the time Adriana Smith. A stripper that hung around the band and was ultimately with Adler, but for the recording it was from an orgasm while having sex with Axl Rose. Shit is weird if you ask me, but that is how bands operated some of the time especially when the band is all about partying. The first time I read Slash's book I was a little disgusted by the fact but its been over ten years since and I have read a ton of other biographies and it turns out it is fairly common, you share everything in a band if you are trying to make it and I guess women are no different. Anyways, I love the lusty feeling of this track and it is a great way to end an iconic album. That chorus is addictive and fun to sing along to. The guitar is grooving and mesmerizing, and the damn bass line that follows the track keeps everything steady. Lyrically I dig how much work was put into it revolving around one chick though Axl Rose claims he wrote the song for a girl who was gonna start a band called Rocket Queen. Either way the song is great and the bold usage of sex in a mainstream rock sound was pretty bold for the time even if other bands have done it, but none of those bands hit the same fame as GN'R. I think I am equally as fond of the mellow part starting around the 4 minute mark, it really shows off how crazy Axl Rose is behind the microphone. Pure raw talent and emotion, just sucks he was scummy for pretty well all their career. "Rocket Queen" is one of the more thought out feeling tracks on the album, it doesn't force itself on you or keep strictly to hooks. The song is fun and well put together through and through, it keeps your attention the whole time with the song switching from a lusty feeling to ending on a love feeling, making it feel like after getting into her pants he got attached and fell in love. The song starts strong and ends even stronger, a nice showpiece for each member of the band. It is easy to see why they are one of the most respected and successful bands of all time. I am sure we will see more of them as the website moves on, can’t have rock n roll without Guns N’ Roses. Enjoy!
Year Released: 1987
Album: Appetite for Destruction (1987)
Genre: Hard Rock, Pop Metal
Mood: Lusty
Perfect For: Playing loud, Partying, Casual listening
Where To Next: "Night Songs" - Cinderella
Rating: 9/10
Song of the Day 01/22/2025
"Classified" - C.W. McCall
This month has been heavier than the previous ones, must be something in the air. So after we have had plenty of heavier tracks and a couple of the heart wrenching ones we deserve a track that lets us kick our feet up and let out a chuckle. C.W. McCall led kind of an obscure career, a musician that never really was expected to end up on the Billboard 100 and was content writing music for commercials and ended up making a career with his big hit "Convoy" which is a trucker country anthem. Like pretty much all of his work, you aren't supposed to take it seriously and just enjoy it. You can tell he is a commercial artist in “Convoy” and even in "Classified". Quick jingles that linger in your brain and have you tapping along to it. While his career wasn't long or overly successful he still released 8 albums (2 of which went to the top of the US Country charts) and 7 hit singles. Though none outshined "Convoy" and like a lot of novelty tracks, that song is still a known one today. I bet if you went and listened to it right now you might recognize it. I honestly think "Classified" is a much better song overall, and for anyone who has gone and checked out some shit on Craigslist or KSL then this song will speak to you. It tells the story of our character seeing an ad in the newspaper for a truck this dude is trying to sell, needless to say with the high price of 35 bucks it is a piece of shit. 35 bucks today is roughly 205 dollars, not to mention the hide-a-bed that they are trading for. So when our character heads on out to where the truck is and the comical story takes off. After confirming this truck is hardly fit to drive with a little bartering he follows through on buying it. Then a little bit of chaos ensues as he tries getting out of there. That dog Frank sure is a son of a gun but he is honestly my favorite character in the story. With the song's fast pace and the spitfire way McCall speaks it gives the song an old time cartoon feeling, the ones where they are bouncing the whole time. I listened to the song a couple times that day and each time I got sucked into the hot sting of the Texas Chihuahuan Desert even though I think he means "Shelby County" in Tennessee buuuut I like the desert vibe more. Anyways, C.W. McCall is one of the only musicians in country that made a whole character and pulled it off well instead of just with children. All fabricated as a truck drivin' man that was originally meant for bread commercials. Soon enough his character was truckin' and ending up in funny situations like a sitcom and selling across the states. William Dale Fries Jr. is his real name and he is the mastermind behind C.W. McCall's character and he even went on to become the mayor of Ouray, Colorado. I kind of want to take a trip out there while listening through all the piston pumpin' barroom thumpin' truckin' country that was C.W. McCall's bread and butter. An oddity song but nonetheless a good song.
Year Released: 1975
Album: Wolf Creek Pass (1975)
Genre: Country
Mood: Silly
Perfect For: Driving, Casual listening, Having a chuckle, Having a beer.... or two.... or three
Where To Next: "Faster Horses (The Cowboy and the Poet)" - Tom T. Hall
Rating: 7/10
This month has been heavier than the previous ones, must be something in the air. So after we have had plenty of heavier tracks and a couple of the heart wrenching ones we deserve a track that lets us kick our feet up and let out a chuckle. C.W. McCall led kind of an obscure career, a musician that never really was expected to end up on the Billboard 100 and was content writing music for commercials and ended up making a career with his big hit "Convoy" which is a trucker country anthem. Like pretty much all of his work, you aren't supposed to take it seriously and just enjoy it. You can tell he is a commercial artist in “Convoy” and even in "Classified". Quick jingles that linger in your brain and have you tapping along to it. While his career wasn't long or overly successful he still released 8 albums (2 of which went to the top of the US Country charts) and 7 hit singles. Though none outshined "Convoy" and like a lot of novelty tracks, that song is still a known one today. I bet if you went and listened to it right now you might recognize it. I honestly think "Classified" is a much better song overall, and for anyone who has gone and checked out some shit on Craigslist or KSL then this song will speak to you. It tells the story of our character seeing an ad in the newspaper for a truck this dude is trying to sell, needless to say with the high price of 35 bucks it is a piece of shit. 35 bucks today is roughly 205 dollars, not to mention the hide-a-bed that they are trading for. So when our character heads on out to where the truck is and the comical story takes off. After confirming this truck is hardly fit to drive with a little bartering he follows through on buying it. Then a little bit of chaos ensues as he tries getting out of there. That dog Frank sure is a son of a gun but he is honestly my favorite character in the story. With the song's fast pace and the spitfire way McCall speaks it gives the song an old time cartoon feeling, the ones where they are bouncing the whole time. I listened to the song a couple times that day and each time I got sucked into the hot sting of the Texas Chihuahuan Desert even though I think he means "Shelby County" in Tennessee buuuut I like the desert vibe more. Anyways, C.W. McCall is one of the only musicians in country that made a whole character and pulled it off well instead of just with children. All fabricated as a truck drivin' man that was originally meant for bread commercials. Soon enough his character was truckin' and ending up in funny situations like a sitcom and selling across the states. William Dale Fries Jr. is his real name and he is the mastermind behind C.W. McCall's character and he even went on to become the mayor of Ouray, Colorado. I kind of want to take a trip out there while listening through all the piston pumpin' barroom thumpin' truckin' country that was C.W. McCall's bread and butter. An oddity song but nonetheless a good song.
Year Released: 1975
Album: Wolf Creek Pass (1975)
Genre: Country
Mood: Silly
Perfect For: Driving, Casual listening, Having a chuckle, Having a beer.... or two.... or three
Where To Next: "Faster Horses (The Cowboy and the Poet)" - Tom T. Hall
Rating: 7/10
Song of the Day 01/21/2025
“Death Throes of the Terrorsquid” - Alestorm
Y’all wanna talk about a plain odd band? Alestorm is as pirate as metal can get, unlike some bands that choose a theme and half sticks to it, Alestorm goes alllll in and wears their dorkiness with pride. I remember when I first heard “Shipwrecked” on YouTube and saw the music video I was instantly hooked. It was like watching a train wreck but a train wreck with a damn good soundtrack! I am honestly impressed 85% of the time with the band on just how damn catchy and heavy they are. Here is a band that has a party and doesn’t take themselves seriously but then turns around and writes an almost 8-minute epic about this legendary monster the Terrorsquid. I am once again shocked with their competence of putting together this purely EPIC of a song with great imagery. The song does a remarkable job at painting a picture in your brain. Each part of the song seems planned to help you along with the story. The tavern-like feeling of impending doom, adventure, dreams and booty as the quest sets off leaves you feeling inspired. The driving rhythm and the strong chorus has you feeling proud as strong as you set sail across the waves. Until finally you come face to face with the terrorsquid and commence battle in the second half of the song. Talk about a great lead up, everything seems like a sure victory and the path to glory lays open. Though things turn for the worse once the 4:30 minute mark rolls around when the band changes the feeling into a black metal nightmare as they approach the terrorsquid’s dwelling. This is where I think the lyricism really shines through. A band like Alestorm really has no right going this damn hard, shit makes my nipples hard with how epic it gets during the second half. You really feel one with the story and the music, much like Manowar’s epic “Achilles, Agony and Ecstasy in Eight Parts” or Rush’s intense “2112”. Though when it comes to Manowar it almost makes sense, and I don’t even need to remind you who Rush is. Manowar can get dorky too, don’t get me wrong but not in the pirate way. The first part of this song is already great but once they ramp it up in the second part I really cannot get enough. I woke up to the song playing and was instantly ready to charge into the day. I listened to it again while doing my hair and brushing my teeth and couldn’t help myself but to listen to it again on the way to work. Alestorm has really impressed me since I first came across them almost 10 years ago. They can put out some dumb songs like “Fucked with an Anchor” that is randomly great and then turn around and release an epic piece like “Death Throes of the Terrorsquid” and act like nothing ever happened. A band you think you cannot take seriously suddenly strikes you down without even breaking a sweat. The best gift you could receive that comes in silly wrapping paper. Good shit…. That is all I can say… GOOD SHIT!
Year Released: 2011
Album: Back Through Time (2011)
Genre: Pirate Metal, Power Metal
Mood: Epic
Perfect For: Riding into battle, Driving, Listening along to the story, Buccaneering, Drinking rum
Where To Next: "The Rise of Hannibal" - Ex Deo
Rating: 9/10
Y’all wanna talk about a plain odd band? Alestorm is as pirate as metal can get, unlike some bands that choose a theme and half sticks to it, Alestorm goes alllll in and wears their dorkiness with pride. I remember when I first heard “Shipwrecked” on YouTube and saw the music video I was instantly hooked. It was like watching a train wreck but a train wreck with a damn good soundtrack! I am honestly impressed 85% of the time with the band on just how damn catchy and heavy they are. Here is a band that has a party and doesn’t take themselves seriously but then turns around and writes an almost 8-minute epic about this legendary monster the Terrorsquid. I am once again shocked with their competence of putting together this purely EPIC of a song with great imagery. The song does a remarkable job at painting a picture in your brain. Each part of the song seems planned to help you along with the story. The tavern-like feeling of impending doom, adventure, dreams and booty as the quest sets off leaves you feeling inspired. The driving rhythm and the strong chorus has you feeling proud as strong as you set sail across the waves. Until finally you come face to face with the terrorsquid and commence battle in the second half of the song. Talk about a great lead up, everything seems like a sure victory and the path to glory lays open. Though things turn for the worse once the 4:30 minute mark rolls around when the band changes the feeling into a black metal nightmare as they approach the terrorsquid’s dwelling. This is where I think the lyricism really shines through. A band like Alestorm really has no right going this damn hard, shit makes my nipples hard with how epic it gets during the second half. You really feel one with the story and the music, much like Manowar’s epic “Achilles, Agony and Ecstasy in Eight Parts” or Rush’s intense “2112”. Though when it comes to Manowar it almost makes sense, and I don’t even need to remind you who Rush is. Manowar can get dorky too, don’t get me wrong but not in the pirate way. The first part of this song is already great but once they ramp it up in the second part I really cannot get enough. I woke up to the song playing and was instantly ready to charge into the day. I listened to it again while doing my hair and brushing my teeth and couldn’t help myself but to listen to it again on the way to work. Alestorm has really impressed me since I first came across them almost 10 years ago. They can put out some dumb songs like “Fucked with an Anchor” that is randomly great and then turn around and release an epic piece like “Death Throes of the Terrorsquid” and act like nothing ever happened. A band you think you cannot take seriously suddenly strikes you down without even breaking a sweat. The best gift you could receive that comes in silly wrapping paper. Good shit…. That is all I can say… GOOD SHIT!
Year Released: 2011
Album: Back Through Time (2011)
Genre: Pirate Metal, Power Metal
Mood: Epic
Perfect For: Riding into battle, Driving, Listening along to the story, Buccaneering, Drinking rum
Where To Next: "The Rise of Hannibal" - Ex Deo
Rating: 9/10
Song of the Day 01/20/2025
"Chloe Dancer / Crown of Thorns" - Mother Love Bone
Welcome ladies and gents to a post that holds history, the tragic tale of a band that made a serious dent in music but broke up before their first studio album even came out due to the death of frontman Andrew Wood. Mother Love Bone is often regarded as one of the first grunge bands. While there were multiple bands moving towards that sound that Green River & Mudhoney were still perfecting there is no doubting the serious impact that Mother Love Bone had on the Seattle scene especially Andrew Wood. Not only that they had a sound unlike many other bands, this strange mixing of pop metal, punk, hard alternative, hard rock, glam punk, and so many more that eventually moved into being the sound that took over the 1990's, grunge. Though they had their hand in so much more including the alternative metal scene, for a band that was only really around for 2ish years they had their fingers in many pies. The band is comprised of members from multiple bands that represented the great music coming out of Seattle at the time, most of the members came out of Green River, a band that came along with a truly original sound through the 1980's and much like Mother Love Bone had a heavy hand in creating multiple different sounds and styles especially grunge. Aside from Green River we also had Andrew Wood coming out of Malfunkshun and drummer Greg Gilmore that came out of 10 Minute Warning. Easy to say that the band was bound for glory yet fate had different plans. The remnants of the band was approached by Chris Cornell (of Soundgarden), who was Wood's roommate at the time, to do a couple of songs in memoriam which turned into the great album and band Temple of the Dog. Crazy that one person has so many ties into so many groups that helped define the 1990's. You can see why a hole was left after the passing of Andrew Wood in songs like "Chloe Dancer / Crown of Thorns". A great performer that put all his heart into the music. This song always has me floating and feeling hollow. This is the only EP that Mother Love Bone put out while together and all well.. alive.. since their studio album came a little too late. While I am not going to lie, the EP isn't the best thing that ever came out but when it holds a track like this one here it is damn near impossible to not think it is the best thing you've ever heard. It is such a well put together song that even with its longer playtime is always thrilling and deep. This is also the best version of the song since their debut album has "Crown of Thorns" without "Chloe Dancer" and it is just not the same. Not the same set em up to knock em down power. While the EP didn't have any other tracks to match this one it still put them in the spotlight as one of the bands with the most potential to really shake up the music world. We will never know but with the work that Mother Love Bone left it is plain to see they would have made it up there with Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Nirvana. One of those bands that you could write a trilogy of books for but can only reference a small handful of released tracks. Even with the limited amount of songs, their impact on grunge and music was heavily felt in multiple different areas of the rock spectrum.
Year Released: 1989
EP: Shine (1989)
Genre: Alternative Rock, Grunge
Mood: Hollow
Perfect For: Casual listening, Relaxing, Hot summer drives, Nature walks
Where To Next: "Classic Girl" - Jane's Addiction
Rating: 10/10
Welcome ladies and gents to a post that holds history, the tragic tale of a band that made a serious dent in music but broke up before their first studio album even came out due to the death of frontman Andrew Wood. Mother Love Bone is often regarded as one of the first grunge bands. While there were multiple bands moving towards that sound that Green River & Mudhoney were still perfecting there is no doubting the serious impact that Mother Love Bone had on the Seattle scene especially Andrew Wood. Not only that they had a sound unlike many other bands, this strange mixing of pop metal, punk, hard alternative, hard rock, glam punk, and so many more that eventually moved into being the sound that took over the 1990's, grunge. Though they had their hand in so much more including the alternative metal scene, for a band that was only really around for 2ish years they had their fingers in many pies. The band is comprised of members from multiple bands that represented the great music coming out of Seattle at the time, most of the members came out of Green River, a band that came along with a truly original sound through the 1980's and much like Mother Love Bone had a heavy hand in creating multiple different sounds and styles especially grunge. Aside from Green River we also had Andrew Wood coming out of Malfunkshun and drummer Greg Gilmore that came out of 10 Minute Warning. Easy to say that the band was bound for glory yet fate had different plans. The remnants of the band was approached by Chris Cornell (of Soundgarden), who was Wood's roommate at the time, to do a couple of songs in memoriam which turned into the great album and band Temple of the Dog. Crazy that one person has so many ties into so many groups that helped define the 1990's. You can see why a hole was left after the passing of Andrew Wood in songs like "Chloe Dancer / Crown of Thorns". A great performer that put all his heart into the music. This song always has me floating and feeling hollow. This is the only EP that Mother Love Bone put out while together and all well.. alive.. since their studio album came a little too late. While I am not going to lie, the EP isn't the best thing that ever came out but when it holds a track like this one here it is damn near impossible to not think it is the best thing you've ever heard. It is such a well put together song that even with its longer playtime is always thrilling and deep. This is also the best version of the song since their debut album has "Crown of Thorns" without "Chloe Dancer" and it is just not the same. Not the same set em up to knock em down power. While the EP didn't have any other tracks to match this one it still put them in the spotlight as one of the bands with the most potential to really shake up the music world. We will never know but with the work that Mother Love Bone left it is plain to see they would have made it up there with Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Nirvana. One of those bands that you could write a trilogy of books for but can only reference a small handful of released tracks. Even with the limited amount of songs, their impact on grunge and music was heavily felt in multiple different areas of the rock spectrum.
Year Released: 1989
EP: Shine (1989)
Genre: Alternative Rock, Grunge
Mood: Hollow
Perfect For: Casual listening, Relaxing, Hot summer drives, Nature walks
Where To Next: "Classic Girl" - Jane's Addiction
Rating: 10/10
Song of the Day 01/19/2025
"Discontinued" - Death Angel
Death Angel is one of those bands that followed along with a scene but never got the love they deserved. Don't get me wrong, they are highly respected in the thrash metal community, but with material like theirs I honestly think they deserve as high of a spot as the megalodon Metallica or the carnivorous Exodus. Sure, they came along a little later than some of the legends in the genre but the more intricate and intense thrash sound Death Angel puts out deserves the same attention. So, if you are one that digs what Megadeth, Overkill, Testament, Metallica, etc. dishes out then stop what you are doing (even reading this post) and go listen to some of what they have to offer, especially their earlier material. Shit, you can even start with "Discontinued" which shows off what I mean about the more intricate side of thrash metal and the song gets damn funky out of nowhere. Their later work is great too, one of the thrash metal bands that came out of the 1980's but still puts out great work modernly, some of it is even better than their earlier material. I first got into the band from their debut The Ultra-Violence which is a mighty powerful album, also it is crazy impressive that all of the band was under the age of 20 at the time. Most impressively drummer Andy Galeon who was only 14. 14! I was busy playing a Don Juan and finding out how great it feels to get stoned and listen to Alice in Chains, I wonder if I could go back in time if I would change my path and learn a damn instrument. They say it is never too late, but people in the future can't write "that dude was fuckin' 14 when throwing out that vicious drumming" now. Anyways since I first gave The Ultra-Violence a listen many moons ago, I have been a big fan. If I had to choose a favorite album it would probably be their 3rd album fittingly titled Act III. There is so much expansion in their sound on that album and the atmosphere keeps this sense of recklessness in the air. Vocalist Mark Osegueda is the oddity in the band if you ask me, his vocal style is more similar to the speed metal style of the time more than the thrash. Though I say that in a positive manner, it is probably what helps that reckless feeling. Anyways, Death Angel always seems to impress me and on a day that I was listening to some of my favorite metal tracks to come out of 1989 & 1990, "Discontinued" is the one that fully grabbed me. Heavy enough to make you feel like you are going 60 mph while going 30 yet funky and smooth enough to make you feel like you are actually going 15. Chaos and contentment wrapped into a pretty package backed by strangely motivational and real lyricism that keeps you entertained through the almost 6-minute playtime. I tell you, dear reader, if you are one to like the other thrash giants then take the time to take in more Death Angel songs, if you need a guiding hand feel free to reach out in my contact page accessed from the home screen. When it comes to giving song suggestions, I am always peddling that good shit (or maybe I am just smoking too much of my own supply).
Year Released: 1990
Album: Act III (1990)
Genre: Thrash Metal
Mood: Sporadic
Perfect For: Stressful driving, Casual listening
Where To Next: "The Fun Palace" - Annihilator
Rating: 8/10
Death Angel is one of those bands that followed along with a scene but never got the love they deserved. Don't get me wrong, they are highly respected in the thrash metal community, but with material like theirs I honestly think they deserve as high of a spot as the megalodon Metallica or the carnivorous Exodus. Sure, they came along a little later than some of the legends in the genre but the more intricate and intense thrash sound Death Angel puts out deserves the same attention. So, if you are one that digs what Megadeth, Overkill, Testament, Metallica, etc. dishes out then stop what you are doing (even reading this post) and go listen to some of what they have to offer, especially their earlier material. Shit, you can even start with "Discontinued" which shows off what I mean about the more intricate side of thrash metal and the song gets damn funky out of nowhere. Their later work is great too, one of the thrash metal bands that came out of the 1980's but still puts out great work modernly, some of it is even better than their earlier material. I first got into the band from their debut The Ultra-Violence which is a mighty powerful album, also it is crazy impressive that all of the band was under the age of 20 at the time. Most impressively drummer Andy Galeon who was only 14. 14! I was busy playing a Don Juan and finding out how great it feels to get stoned and listen to Alice in Chains, I wonder if I could go back in time if I would change my path and learn a damn instrument. They say it is never too late, but people in the future can't write "that dude was fuckin' 14 when throwing out that vicious drumming" now. Anyways since I first gave The Ultra-Violence a listen many moons ago, I have been a big fan. If I had to choose a favorite album it would probably be their 3rd album fittingly titled Act III. There is so much expansion in their sound on that album and the atmosphere keeps this sense of recklessness in the air. Vocalist Mark Osegueda is the oddity in the band if you ask me, his vocal style is more similar to the speed metal style of the time more than the thrash. Though I say that in a positive manner, it is probably what helps that reckless feeling. Anyways, Death Angel always seems to impress me and on a day that I was listening to some of my favorite metal tracks to come out of 1989 & 1990, "Discontinued" is the one that fully grabbed me. Heavy enough to make you feel like you are going 60 mph while going 30 yet funky and smooth enough to make you feel like you are actually going 15. Chaos and contentment wrapped into a pretty package backed by strangely motivational and real lyricism that keeps you entertained through the almost 6-minute playtime. I tell you, dear reader, if you are one to like the other thrash giants then take the time to take in more Death Angel songs, if you need a guiding hand feel free to reach out in my contact page accessed from the home screen. When it comes to giving song suggestions, I am always peddling that good shit (or maybe I am just smoking too much of my own supply).
Year Released: 1990
Album: Act III (1990)
Genre: Thrash Metal
Mood: Sporadic
Perfect For: Stressful driving, Casual listening
Where To Next: "The Fun Palace" - Annihilator
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/18/2025
“Zombie” - The Cranberries
I am shocked it took this long for this track to show up, it is one of those songs that everyone knows and for all the right reasons. The song is addictive and seems to draw in people from all walks of life with those unique vocals of Dolores O’Riordan and the haunting and heavy sound that pours out of the band. When it comes to the Cranberries you can always expect a sound that comes straight from the soul, they always sound like the sad heavy clouds before it releases the rain. Strangely enough I didn’t choose this track after listening to the Cranberries, but from Girl Static, a local band that for their debut show dished out a strong cover of the track as the opener. “Zombie” for the opening song is a wise choice, something comfy and loved that shows off the band's knack while not scaring away fans with original work. Original material is where a band can really test their mettle but you gotta grab the crowd first, and grab the crowd this femme fatale did. There was a demanding presence that filled that cheap dive, it transported a joint with piss tasting beer into CBGB or the more fitting historic Crocodile in Seattle. A sound with a backbone that seemed to be made out of the Riot Grrrl movement with a modern and amateur splash that kept the appeal open for most anyone that has ears or enjoys a heavier alternative sound. A driving power that would make the Melvins blush with a Sleater-Kinney intensity that keeps you seated and sated. Their original material seemed more put together than some of the local bands I have seen around Salt Lake City, and their choice of covers were great and fitting, “Zombie” from the Cranberries is always a pleaser and the grungy and leaden “Pretend We’re Dead” by L7 still holds that middle finger high to conformity while being played by musicians 33 years later. A good show, especially in a venue that hardly seems to be made to house concerts. Makes you wonder what the Cranberries sounded like when they first started off. It took the Cranberries about 4 years to have their name shoot up the charts with their debut album Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? which holds some of their biggest tracks like “Linger” and “Dreams” and a personal favorite of mine “Put Me Down”. Even then they didn’t hit that legendary status until their follow up album, No Need to Argue, which held “Zombie”. A song that is essential to anyone who digs 90’s rock and alternative. It is always wild to me that some bands become overnight sensations and some have to work their asses off for years. So why not help a local band on their path? Keep your eyes peeled for Girl Static to show up at your favorite haunt. Invest now and you can say “I know those guys” when their spiritual successor to “Zombie” crawls its way up the Spotify 50 in the days to come.
Year Released: 1994
Album: No Need to Argue (1994)
Genre: Alternative Rock
Mood: Serious
Perfect For: Casual listening, Seeing live, Turning those speakers up high
Where To Next: "The One I Love" - R.E.M.
Rating: 9/10
I am shocked it took this long for this track to show up, it is one of those songs that everyone knows and for all the right reasons. The song is addictive and seems to draw in people from all walks of life with those unique vocals of Dolores O’Riordan and the haunting and heavy sound that pours out of the band. When it comes to the Cranberries you can always expect a sound that comes straight from the soul, they always sound like the sad heavy clouds before it releases the rain. Strangely enough I didn’t choose this track after listening to the Cranberries, but from Girl Static, a local band that for their debut show dished out a strong cover of the track as the opener. “Zombie” for the opening song is a wise choice, something comfy and loved that shows off the band's knack while not scaring away fans with original work. Original material is where a band can really test their mettle but you gotta grab the crowd first, and grab the crowd this femme fatale did. There was a demanding presence that filled that cheap dive, it transported a joint with piss tasting beer into CBGB or the more fitting historic Crocodile in Seattle. A sound with a backbone that seemed to be made out of the Riot Grrrl movement with a modern and amateur splash that kept the appeal open for most anyone that has ears or enjoys a heavier alternative sound. A driving power that would make the Melvins blush with a Sleater-Kinney intensity that keeps you seated and sated. Their original material seemed more put together than some of the local bands I have seen around Salt Lake City, and their choice of covers were great and fitting, “Zombie” from the Cranberries is always a pleaser and the grungy and leaden “Pretend We’re Dead” by L7 still holds that middle finger high to conformity while being played by musicians 33 years later. A good show, especially in a venue that hardly seems to be made to house concerts. Makes you wonder what the Cranberries sounded like when they first started off. It took the Cranberries about 4 years to have their name shoot up the charts with their debut album Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? which holds some of their biggest tracks like “Linger” and “Dreams” and a personal favorite of mine “Put Me Down”. Even then they didn’t hit that legendary status until their follow up album, No Need to Argue, which held “Zombie”. A song that is essential to anyone who digs 90’s rock and alternative. It is always wild to me that some bands become overnight sensations and some have to work their asses off for years. So why not help a local band on their path? Keep your eyes peeled for Girl Static to show up at your favorite haunt. Invest now and you can say “I know those guys” when their spiritual successor to “Zombie” crawls its way up the Spotify 50 in the days to come.
Year Released: 1994
Album: No Need to Argue (1994)
Genre: Alternative Rock
Mood: Serious
Perfect For: Casual listening, Seeing live, Turning those speakers up high
Where To Next: "The One I Love" - R.E.M.
Rating: 9/10
Song of the Day 01/17/2025
“Sweet Home Chicago” - Magic Sam
“Sweet Home Chicago” might as well be the “Lovesick Blues” of blues music. A blues standard that has been covered so many times in a wide array of styles. I can see why, the song is damn good and Chicago is one of the most important places in blues music if not American music in general. The song had such an impact even Barack Obama took part in the performance for the “In Performance in the White House: Red, White and Blues” that the Obamas put together in the White House. The song is legendary and there are a solid handful of versions that I dig, be it the original from 1936 by the King of the Delta Blues Robert Johnson, the hot rockin’ version from Foghat, or the smooth version from Lonnie Brooks. Though in the end I gotta throw my favorite version to the one we have here today from the often overlooked stellar bluesman Magic Sam. This version is bristling with electricity, the music moves as smooth as top shelf whiskey. The kind of blues that those top shelf bottles compliment as much as some homemade hooch, bluesy and mellow for the squares but unbound and potent enough for the wild child. Especially when the guitar does all the talking from the 1:40 mark until the 2:25. This song is a joy to listen to, and makes me want to visit Chicago so damn bad. Well I hardly needed an excuse especially since it holds so much history and also the most impressive collection of architecture in the United States. I wanna take in some sweet music with a drink in my hand at multiple of the famous blues venues and clubs, especially the famous Kingston Mines. Here I am dreaming again, I find my shoes walking towards a place when the song about it is so damn good that your brain is already transported there. While the blues seem to be more for the realist, that doesn’t mean a boy can’t dream.
Year Released: 1968
Album: West Side Soul (1968)
Genre: Chicago Blues
Mood: Smooth
Perfect For: Whiskey on the rocks, Lounging around, Driving during the civil twilight
Where To Next: "Wishy Washy Woman" - Mighty Joe Young
Rating: 8/10
“Sweet Home Chicago” might as well be the “Lovesick Blues” of blues music. A blues standard that has been covered so many times in a wide array of styles. I can see why, the song is damn good and Chicago is one of the most important places in blues music if not American music in general. The song had such an impact even Barack Obama took part in the performance for the “In Performance in the White House: Red, White and Blues” that the Obamas put together in the White House. The song is legendary and there are a solid handful of versions that I dig, be it the original from 1936 by the King of the Delta Blues Robert Johnson, the hot rockin’ version from Foghat, or the smooth version from Lonnie Brooks. Though in the end I gotta throw my favorite version to the one we have here today from the often overlooked stellar bluesman Magic Sam. This version is bristling with electricity, the music moves as smooth as top shelf whiskey. The kind of blues that those top shelf bottles compliment as much as some homemade hooch, bluesy and mellow for the squares but unbound and potent enough for the wild child. Especially when the guitar does all the talking from the 1:40 mark until the 2:25. This song is a joy to listen to, and makes me want to visit Chicago so damn bad. Well I hardly needed an excuse especially since it holds so much history and also the most impressive collection of architecture in the United States. I wanna take in some sweet music with a drink in my hand at multiple of the famous blues venues and clubs, especially the famous Kingston Mines. Here I am dreaming again, I find my shoes walking towards a place when the song about it is so damn good that your brain is already transported there. While the blues seem to be more for the realist, that doesn’t mean a boy can’t dream.
Year Released: 1968
Album: West Side Soul (1968)
Genre: Chicago Blues
Mood: Smooth
Perfect For: Whiskey on the rocks, Lounging around, Driving during the civil twilight
Where To Next: "Wishy Washy Woman" - Mighty Joe Young
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/16/2025
“Roadhouse Blues” - The Doors
Do I even need to introduce The Doors? They are the ultimate band that the music does the talking. While their career only lasted from 1967 to 1972 (prime years from 1967 - 1971) their impact really shook all of rock music. Jim Morrison is one of the most recognizable and infamous frontmen in music history. Shit, the Doors have a track record that few bands have matched, notably Jim Morrison. Now, love him or hate him there is no doubt that the lizard king knew a thing or two about how to make a crowd go plum crazy. He was a wild child through and through but that brought in some crazy publicity and a stage presence that is still talked of today. I mean just within the time frame of putting this album together Jim Morrison caused such a ruckus on a flight that a new law was made and it saw him looking at a 10,000 dollar fine and a ten year prison sentence. Not only that, we don’t need to talk of the “Coconut Grove incident” in Florida when Morrison drunkenly exposed himself on stage in front of a large crowd that had America putting forward more constraints on performances on all bands but especially the Doors which ended up cancel the following 25 shows and got blacklisted on most radio stations. The same people that were mortified from Elvis and his pelvis must have dropped their jaws at the obscenity of Jim Morrison. The parents had their jaws on the floor while the daughters had their panties hitting the floor, no matter your opinion on Jim Morrison there is no doubting his raw sex appeal. That sex appeal, crazy antics, well put together songs, unique approach to music, and the political landscape of America at the time gave the Doors a place to become one of the biggest names in rock music. “Roadhouse Blues” is a staple for rock music, a great song that is damn impossible to not get into especially with such an empowering chorus. A perfect and well crafted rock classic, one of the best on the album and trust me when I tell you that this album is pretty well full up with perfect songs. A great way to kick off Morrison Hotel and a great entry point for any rock fans that just emerged from under their rock and wants to get into the legends. If you already know and love this song I think you should try out the live version on the obscure album An American Prayer. I couldn’t choose between the live version or the studio for my song of the day, but ultimately we had to go with the studio since this song is literally perfect. Enjoy!
Year Released: 1970
Album: Morrison Hotel (1970)
Genre: Rock, Blues Rock
Mood: Rockin'
Perfect For: Casual listening, Summer drives, Having a beer, Pretty well anything
Where To Next: "Ezy Ryder" - Jimi Hendrix
Rating: 10/10
Do I even need to introduce The Doors? They are the ultimate band that the music does the talking. While their career only lasted from 1967 to 1972 (prime years from 1967 - 1971) their impact really shook all of rock music. Jim Morrison is one of the most recognizable and infamous frontmen in music history. Shit, the Doors have a track record that few bands have matched, notably Jim Morrison. Now, love him or hate him there is no doubt that the lizard king knew a thing or two about how to make a crowd go plum crazy. He was a wild child through and through but that brought in some crazy publicity and a stage presence that is still talked of today. I mean just within the time frame of putting this album together Jim Morrison caused such a ruckus on a flight that a new law was made and it saw him looking at a 10,000 dollar fine and a ten year prison sentence. Not only that, we don’t need to talk of the “Coconut Grove incident” in Florida when Morrison drunkenly exposed himself on stage in front of a large crowd that had America putting forward more constraints on performances on all bands but especially the Doors which ended up cancel the following 25 shows and got blacklisted on most radio stations. The same people that were mortified from Elvis and his pelvis must have dropped their jaws at the obscenity of Jim Morrison. The parents had their jaws on the floor while the daughters had their panties hitting the floor, no matter your opinion on Jim Morrison there is no doubting his raw sex appeal. That sex appeal, crazy antics, well put together songs, unique approach to music, and the political landscape of America at the time gave the Doors a place to become one of the biggest names in rock music. “Roadhouse Blues” is a staple for rock music, a great song that is damn impossible to not get into especially with such an empowering chorus. A perfect and well crafted rock classic, one of the best on the album and trust me when I tell you that this album is pretty well full up with perfect songs. A great way to kick off Morrison Hotel and a great entry point for any rock fans that just emerged from under their rock and wants to get into the legends. If you already know and love this song I think you should try out the live version on the obscure album An American Prayer. I couldn’t choose between the live version or the studio for my song of the day, but ultimately we had to go with the studio since this song is literally perfect. Enjoy!
Year Released: 1970
Album: Morrison Hotel (1970)
Genre: Rock, Blues Rock
Mood: Rockin'
Perfect For: Casual listening, Summer drives, Having a beer, Pretty well anything
Where To Next: "Ezy Ryder" - Jimi Hendrix
Rating: 10/10
Song of the Day 01/15/2025
“Chemical Warfare” - Slayer
Fuckin’ SLAAAYER! A band of power and ferocity that throughout the years has always had my back. They are one of my all time favorite bands. With 12 studio albums and 4 live albums there isn’t really a dull moment in their career. Sure, maybe a hiccup here or there but their weaker albums are some other bands “best of”. Their roots are based in a metal sound that cannot be confined to thrash and speed metal, they brought forth a pre-death metal and black metal extreme sound that few bands were pushing forward as impressively as Slayer at the time. While I will not deny that their golden years is their thrash metal sound and their presence in the scene is really where Slayer flourishes, but that doesn’t stop me from having a super special place in my heart for their first 2 albums, Live Undead, and the EP Haunting the Chapel. Even after listening through that material countless times I still find myself with chills when most of the songs kick off. For 1984 there weren’t many bands like Slayer, and there were even fewer that had such an evil feeling to them. Slayer knew how to weaponize the audio equivalent of doing something purely sinful. It sucked in legions of fans and still to this day there are more born every moment destined to one day pick up Seasons in the Abyss and say “holy fuck”. Slayer is one of the first bands to have had a fanbase that was widely known as extremists and I think it is in the brand of music that Slayer puts out that lures that type. While I love the band through and through and always will I am hardly that type of Slayer fan, you know the ones, scratching Slayer into their damned foreheads and trying their damndest to look like Kerry King. I can see why they are driven to do it though, Slayer is an intoxicatingly powerful band. There is a video on YouTube where comedian Jim Breuer talks of his experience with the fanbase that I think is quite funny and strangely on point. I haven’t been to a ton of shows but Slayer is the only one where some random chick looks me dead in the eye and drunkenly socks me square in the nose for no apparent reason. In retrospect, that lady couldn’t have been right in the head since I was an obvious teenager and she was an obvious 35ish year old drunk. Honestly though, the music was so intense and so was my buzz that it didn’t phase my ass, if anything it gave me a hell of an adrenaline rush while the band relentlessly dished out “Born of Fire”. While a lot of new Slayer fans pass on their earlier sound, I find it to be some of their best and I feel bad for anyone who won't take the time to see what I am talking about. It’s not for everyone, but there is some devious magic in tracks like “Chemical Warfare”.
Year Released: 1984
EP: Haunting the Chapel (1984)
Genre: Thrash Metal
Mood: Violent
Perfect For: Banging your god damned head
Where To Next: "Pleasure to Kill" - Kreator
Rating: 9/10
Fuckin’ SLAAAYER! A band of power and ferocity that throughout the years has always had my back. They are one of my all time favorite bands. With 12 studio albums and 4 live albums there isn’t really a dull moment in their career. Sure, maybe a hiccup here or there but their weaker albums are some other bands “best of”. Their roots are based in a metal sound that cannot be confined to thrash and speed metal, they brought forth a pre-death metal and black metal extreme sound that few bands were pushing forward as impressively as Slayer at the time. While I will not deny that their golden years is their thrash metal sound and their presence in the scene is really where Slayer flourishes, but that doesn’t stop me from having a super special place in my heart for their first 2 albums, Live Undead, and the EP Haunting the Chapel. Even after listening through that material countless times I still find myself with chills when most of the songs kick off. For 1984 there weren’t many bands like Slayer, and there were even fewer that had such an evil feeling to them. Slayer knew how to weaponize the audio equivalent of doing something purely sinful. It sucked in legions of fans and still to this day there are more born every moment destined to one day pick up Seasons in the Abyss and say “holy fuck”. Slayer is one of the first bands to have had a fanbase that was widely known as extremists and I think it is in the brand of music that Slayer puts out that lures that type. While I love the band through and through and always will I am hardly that type of Slayer fan, you know the ones, scratching Slayer into their damned foreheads and trying their damndest to look like Kerry King. I can see why they are driven to do it though, Slayer is an intoxicatingly powerful band. There is a video on YouTube where comedian Jim Breuer talks of his experience with the fanbase that I think is quite funny and strangely on point. I haven’t been to a ton of shows but Slayer is the only one where some random chick looks me dead in the eye and drunkenly socks me square in the nose for no apparent reason. In retrospect, that lady couldn’t have been right in the head since I was an obvious teenager and she was an obvious 35ish year old drunk. Honestly though, the music was so intense and so was my buzz that it didn’t phase my ass, if anything it gave me a hell of an adrenaline rush while the band relentlessly dished out “Born of Fire”. While a lot of new Slayer fans pass on their earlier sound, I find it to be some of their best and I feel bad for anyone who won't take the time to see what I am talking about. It’s not for everyone, but there is some devious magic in tracks like “Chemical Warfare”.
Year Released: 1984
EP: Haunting the Chapel (1984)
Genre: Thrash Metal
Mood: Violent
Perfect For: Banging your god damned head
Where To Next: "Pleasure to Kill" - Kreator
Rating: 9/10
Song of the Day 01/14/2025
"The Right Profile" - The Clash
Today we talk about a band that did more for punk music than almost anyone. They pushed the boundaries on not how hardcore you can get but how much of a mainstream appeal you can bring to punk music. Not only that they were one of the first to integrate reggae and dub into punk music not to mention some other genres that you wouldn't think could roll in the genre. If you haven't guessed by now, today we are talking about The Clash. One of the holy trinity of early punk rock, The Clash set themselves apart pretty quickly from the other brits bringing that sweet sweet punk fury to rock music. While they had a strong fan following in the UK from their first two great albums it wasn't until the LEGENDARY album London Calling came a calling in 1979 that the world was completely hooked. Strangely enough they followed that up with more expansion and touched on countless sounds on their follow up album Sandinista! a groundbreaking album for music and punk, and while it is a touch of an acquired taste it showed the band was more than spit and spunk like many of the other bands that found their home in punk music. Following that the band started slowly moving back to roots and then fizzled out in style in 1986. Anyways, the choice for the 14th is "The Right Profile", a track from London Calling that gives no quarter once it takes off, a tough track that shows off why The Clash is as respected as they are. Not one that gathered too much attention in comparison to some of the others on the album. Though if you have a platinum album with 20 great tracks there is some stiff competition. I like this song especially since it is a perfect example of how well The Clash does at melding multiple styles into the punk tapestry. Lyrically it is sort of an odd song, and somewhat insensitive but what do you do? Joe Strummer spits out the fall of actor Montgomery Clift who is often said to have had "the longest suicide in Hollywood", a man that loved his booze and his dope but if that ain't Hollywood I don't know what is. It covers the car crash he was in and what onlookers might have said while trying to get a glimpse of the man behind the wheel. Aside from the somewhat strange lyrics it is a fast paced and fun song much like the album itself. It isn't shocking that London Calling is often regarded as one of the best punk albums of all time, and if you are someone who likes their whole discography such as myself you can also see why this album divided fans. One of those classic cases of the unholy... unforgivable..... unimaginable "selling out"! Cover your kids ears and wives eyes. The horror! I always found it comical how some fans get so damn worked up over those two words. Maybe if I was around at the time I would understand, but what do you want? Another AC/DC or KISS that hardly ever changed their sound? I ain't talking shit on those bands (no need to strike me down rock n roll gods) but I think it is often great when bands try something new, and if that new thing is something like London Calling I would say all is forgiven. A great album and "The Right Profile" fits in the album perfect and is a great song in an album of top tier tracks.
Year Released: 1979
Album: London Calling (1979)
Genre: Punk Rock, New Wave
Mood: Fun
Perfect For: Casual listening, Driving around, Having a martini (dry, gin, olive not a twist)
Where To Next: "Love In a Lift" - The Members
Rating: 8/10
Today we talk about a band that did more for punk music than almost anyone. They pushed the boundaries on not how hardcore you can get but how much of a mainstream appeal you can bring to punk music. Not only that they were one of the first to integrate reggae and dub into punk music not to mention some other genres that you wouldn't think could roll in the genre. If you haven't guessed by now, today we are talking about The Clash. One of the holy trinity of early punk rock, The Clash set themselves apart pretty quickly from the other brits bringing that sweet sweet punk fury to rock music. While they had a strong fan following in the UK from their first two great albums it wasn't until the LEGENDARY album London Calling came a calling in 1979 that the world was completely hooked. Strangely enough they followed that up with more expansion and touched on countless sounds on their follow up album Sandinista! a groundbreaking album for music and punk, and while it is a touch of an acquired taste it showed the band was more than spit and spunk like many of the other bands that found their home in punk music. Following that the band started slowly moving back to roots and then fizzled out in style in 1986. Anyways, the choice for the 14th is "The Right Profile", a track from London Calling that gives no quarter once it takes off, a tough track that shows off why The Clash is as respected as they are. Not one that gathered too much attention in comparison to some of the others on the album. Though if you have a platinum album with 20 great tracks there is some stiff competition. I like this song especially since it is a perfect example of how well The Clash does at melding multiple styles into the punk tapestry. Lyrically it is sort of an odd song, and somewhat insensitive but what do you do? Joe Strummer spits out the fall of actor Montgomery Clift who is often said to have had "the longest suicide in Hollywood", a man that loved his booze and his dope but if that ain't Hollywood I don't know what is. It covers the car crash he was in and what onlookers might have said while trying to get a glimpse of the man behind the wheel. Aside from the somewhat strange lyrics it is a fast paced and fun song much like the album itself. It isn't shocking that London Calling is often regarded as one of the best punk albums of all time, and if you are someone who likes their whole discography such as myself you can also see why this album divided fans. One of those classic cases of the unholy... unforgivable..... unimaginable "selling out"! Cover your kids ears and wives eyes. The horror! I always found it comical how some fans get so damn worked up over those two words. Maybe if I was around at the time I would understand, but what do you want? Another AC/DC or KISS that hardly ever changed their sound? I ain't talking shit on those bands (no need to strike me down rock n roll gods) but I think it is often great when bands try something new, and if that new thing is something like London Calling I would say all is forgiven. A great album and "The Right Profile" fits in the album perfect and is a great song in an album of top tier tracks.
Year Released: 1979
Album: London Calling (1979)
Genre: Punk Rock, New Wave
Mood: Fun
Perfect For: Casual listening, Driving around, Having a martini (dry, gin, olive not a twist)
Where To Next: "Love In a Lift" - The Members
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/13/2025
"Changes" - Tesla
1986 was an intense year for music, thrash metal was dishing out some top of the line albums that ushered in a new age for metal with it coming fully into the mainstream. Punk was expanding even more with Husker Du's Candy Apple Grey and don't even get me started on the Beastie Boys. Even with all the great albums that came out by the truckload in 1986 we cannot overlook what Tesla put out in 1986. Mechanical Resonance is a stand up album with plenty of potent tracks to keep you rocking into the night. We have the intense "Cumin' Atcha Live", the famous "Modern Day Cowboy", the haunting "Before My Eyes" and so many more great songs. As far as debut albums go this one really hits the spot and it instantly put them on the radar for rockers and metalheads alike. I am not one who views bands like Tesla, Poison, Ratt and Quiet Riot as heavy metal, a hard rock that took some inspiration from heavy metal yes, but a metal band no. Though Tesla never struck me as the type of band that was trying to park their truck in compact car parking, they did what they did and the fans came. One band that I have been impressed with for most of their discography, even when bands with this style were fading out in the 1990's Tesla still stood proud and put out some good albums. Mechanical Resonance is a certifiable classic if you ask me, and also is the best place to jump into the band. "Changes" is honestly one of the weaker tracks on the album, but that is like saying that you like your Ferrari more than your McLaren, both are great but it comes down to preference. This song builds up into a great release finally taking off with a strong power ballad approach from an otherwise red hot rockin' album. I think it is a great breather track between "Modern Day Cowboy" and "Little Suzi". My favorite thing about the track is the guitar solo at the 3:07 mark. Tesla is often not flaunted for their guitar work strangely, the dual attack from Frank Hannon and Tommy Skeoch can floor you damn easy. There is a ton to love about the band though, and a lot of that is shown off in this song. Not one of their more popular songs but nevertheless a powerful one that gives you some air before taking on more of the frontal attack from the album. They will forever hold a special place in my heart, so many of their songs have followed me through the ups and downs of relationships and life. As far as hair metal, glam metal, and hard rock goes Tesla is one of the best bands to come out of it. No need for a crazy stage persona or shock appeal, Just a straightforward hard rock sound that wants to move you, and move you it shall.
Year Released: 1986
Album: Mechanical Resonance (1986)
Genre: Hard Rock
Mood: Serious
Perfect For: Casual listening, Sittin and thinkin, Chores
Where To Next: "House of Broken Love" - Great White
Rating: 7/10
1986 was an intense year for music, thrash metal was dishing out some top of the line albums that ushered in a new age for metal with it coming fully into the mainstream. Punk was expanding even more with Husker Du's Candy Apple Grey and don't even get me started on the Beastie Boys. Even with all the great albums that came out by the truckload in 1986 we cannot overlook what Tesla put out in 1986. Mechanical Resonance is a stand up album with plenty of potent tracks to keep you rocking into the night. We have the intense "Cumin' Atcha Live", the famous "Modern Day Cowboy", the haunting "Before My Eyes" and so many more great songs. As far as debut albums go this one really hits the spot and it instantly put them on the radar for rockers and metalheads alike. I am not one who views bands like Tesla, Poison, Ratt and Quiet Riot as heavy metal, a hard rock that took some inspiration from heavy metal yes, but a metal band no. Though Tesla never struck me as the type of band that was trying to park their truck in compact car parking, they did what they did and the fans came. One band that I have been impressed with for most of their discography, even when bands with this style were fading out in the 1990's Tesla still stood proud and put out some good albums. Mechanical Resonance is a certifiable classic if you ask me, and also is the best place to jump into the band. "Changes" is honestly one of the weaker tracks on the album, but that is like saying that you like your Ferrari more than your McLaren, both are great but it comes down to preference. This song builds up into a great release finally taking off with a strong power ballad approach from an otherwise red hot rockin' album. I think it is a great breather track between "Modern Day Cowboy" and "Little Suzi". My favorite thing about the track is the guitar solo at the 3:07 mark. Tesla is often not flaunted for their guitar work strangely, the dual attack from Frank Hannon and Tommy Skeoch can floor you damn easy. There is a ton to love about the band though, and a lot of that is shown off in this song. Not one of their more popular songs but nevertheless a powerful one that gives you some air before taking on more of the frontal attack from the album. They will forever hold a special place in my heart, so many of their songs have followed me through the ups and downs of relationships and life. As far as hair metal, glam metal, and hard rock goes Tesla is one of the best bands to come out of it. No need for a crazy stage persona or shock appeal, Just a straightforward hard rock sound that wants to move you, and move you it shall.
Year Released: 1986
Album: Mechanical Resonance (1986)
Genre: Hard Rock
Mood: Serious
Perfect For: Casual listening, Sittin and thinkin, Chores
Where To Next: "House of Broken Love" - Great White
Rating: 7/10
Song of the Day 01/12/2025
"Drifters Wife" - J.J. Cale
J.J. Cale is a man of legend, but only to those that search him out if that makes any sense. Though he has had a heavy hand in plenty of musicians' progression and hit songs he isn't paraded around as much as those that carry a piece of him in their songs. There are countless timeless and perfect albums under this man's belt from multiple different sounds and styles, but one thing that should always be expected is the natural feeling that comes from his music. His blues sound is some of the best to come out of the genre, same could be said with his country-ish songs and the randomly jazzy ones will floor you. He is one of the originators of the "Tulsa sound" which is a melding of blues, rock, country, rockabilly, jazz and swampy murky rock/pop. I have been impressed every time I put the time aside to take in another of his albums. His 1971 debut Naturally is outstanding in every way, it keeps a perfect atmosphere and even holds a couple songs that some big names picked up and had as some of their biggest hits such as Lynyrd Skynyrd on "Call Me the Breeze" and Eric Clapton's version of "After Midnight". Speaking of Eric Clapton, their 2006 collaborative album The Road to Escondido is another great one, strangely enough it was where I first got into J.J. Cale many many years ago. But maybe we should stop talking about all the truly great albums and jump into one of his less celebrated ones, 1982's Grasshopper, where we see Cale take a more pop approach to his legendary sound. There are still some good tracks on the album and I especially have a soft spot for the chosen track of today "Drifters Wife". I chose the track after driving back a little over 2 hours after spending the day with my precious Alesha and some of her family. After taking a sleigh ride to get close and learn more about Elk I was pretty tired. I like the mellow feeling that fills the bones as you drive down the highway after a fun day out, when there aren't too many assholes on the road and the weather keeps jumping between sunshine and surprise sleet storms. I had that drifters feel in my heart, that freight train blues all the way down to my ramblin' shoes. So I couldn't be happier to hear not only Donovan's mellow "Ramblin' Boy" but to follow it up with the mature and fun to the ear "Drifters Wife" from the legendary J.J. Cale. I nuzzled down in my seat and started daydreaming of hobo Caleb jumping on the train, or the valedictorian rich kid Caleb that is jumping on the plane to have a spring vacation under those Swedish clouds. Though ultimately I was dreaming about how I wish I could drive on and on and never need to worry about gas or pee breaks. Just constant movement across the Utah border into what may come. Though life is what it is I suppose, I find my travels in my dreams. I walk the streets of Manhattan on the way to work and I sleep beside a fire in the Texas badlands while getting ready for bed. Sad reality but I am just glad I have the opportunity to be able to hear music from all over the world, through those chords and verses I get a little taste of the culture from places I will never walk. I still carry that free fever with me, and I will die restless. Born to ramble, destined to roost. Maybe in the next life. Anyways, if you want a chill time you should turn this song on. I cannot push J.J. Cale's first couple albums enough! Pure gold! "Drifters Wife" isn't quite a hidden gem but at the same time I think it deserves the same love as his legendary "Cocaine" and "Crazy Mama". Enjoy! Thanks for reading!
Year Released: 1982
Album: Grasshopper (1982)
Genre: Folk
Mood: Homey
Perfect For: Movin' on down the road, Relaxing, Having a cigarette in the morning, Daydreaming
Where To Next: "Police Dog Blues" - Ry Cooder
Rating: 8/10
J.J. Cale is a man of legend, but only to those that search him out if that makes any sense. Though he has had a heavy hand in plenty of musicians' progression and hit songs he isn't paraded around as much as those that carry a piece of him in their songs. There are countless timeless and perfect albums under this man's belt from multiple different sounds and styles, but one thing that should always be expected is the natural feeling that comes from his music. His blues sound is some of the best to come out of the genre, same could be said with his country-ish songs and the randomly jazzy ones will floor you. He is one of the originators of the "Tulsa sound" which is a melding of blues, rock, country, rockabilly, jazz and swampy murky rock/pop. I have been impressed every time I put the time aside to take in another of his albums. His 1971 debut Naturally is outstanding in every way, it keeps a perfect atmosphere and even holds a couple songs that some big names picked up and had as some of their biggest hits such as Lynyrd Skynyrd on "Call Me the Breeze" and Eric Clapton's version of "After Midnight". Speaking of Eric Clapton, their 2006 collaborative album The Road to Escondido is another great one, strangely enough it was where I first got into J.J. Cale many many years ago. But maybe we should stop talking about all the truly great albums and jump into one of his less celebrated ones, 1982's Grasshopper, where we see Cale take a more pop approach to his legendary sound. There are still some good tracks on the album and I especially have a soft spot for the chosen track of today "Drifters Wife". I chose the track after driving back a little over 2 hours after spending the day with my precious Alesha and some of her family. After taking a sleigh ride to get close and learn more about Elk I was pretty tired. I like the mellow feeling that fills the bones as you drive down the highway after a fun day out, when there aren't too many assholes on the road and the weather keeps jumping between sunshine and surprise sleet storms. I had that drifters feel in my heart, that freight train blues all the way down to my ramblin' shoes. So I couldn't be happier to hear not only Donovan's mellow "Ramblin' Boy" but to follow it up with the mature and fun to the ear "Drifters Wife" from the legendary J.J. Cale. I nuzzled down in my seat and started daydreaming of hobo Caleb jumping on the train, or the valedictorian rich kid Caleb that is jumping on the plane to have a spring vacation under those Swedish clouds. Though ultimately I was dreaming about how I wish I could drive on and on and never need to worry about gas or pee breaks. Just constant movement across the Utah border into what may come. Though life is what it is I suppose, I find my travels in my dreams. I walk the streets of Manhattan on the way to work and I sleep beside a fire in the Texas badlands while getting ready for bed. Sad reality but I am just glad I have the opportunity to be able to hear music from all over the world, through those chords and verses I get a little taste of the culture from places I will never walk. I still carry that free fever with me, and I will die restless. Born to ramble, destined to roost. Maybe in the next life. Anyways, if you want a chill time you should turn this song on. I cannot push J.J. Cale's first couple albums enough! Pure gold! "Drifters Wife" isn't quite a hidden gem but at the same time I think it deserves the same love as his legendary "Cocaine" and "Crazy Mama". Enjoy! Thanks for reading!
Year Released: 1982
Album: Grasshopper (1982)
Genre: Folk
Mood: Homey
Perfect For: Movin' on down the road, Relaxing, Having a cigarette in the morning, Daydreaming
Where To Next: "Police Dog Blues" - Ry Cooder
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/11/2025
"One Rode to ASA Bay" - Bathory
Bathory is a band that came a little later into my life though its impact on it is equal to many bands I have carried with me since I first found out how to turn on the radio. I cannot get enough of the band, be it their black metal sound or the more atmospheric based viking metal sound that was Quorthon's bread and butter up until his death in 2004. Bathory is a band that always amazes me, their sound isn't intricate or crazy but the fact that it is one person for the most part doing each part blows my mind. The cherry on top is that Bathory came along with a truly original sound in 1984 with their self-titled debut. Quorthon put out an album that changed the tide of heavy metal music, creating a place where atmosphere takes precedence over speed. Being pretty well the first true black metal band to pop up isn't something to take lightly, then to release mostly good albums throughout your career is also something not to take lightly. I know the sound ain't for everyone but is there ever? If this is your first time listening to Bathory know that their black metal sound is really where the gold is, the sound we hear on "One Rode to ASA Bay" is great for chilling you out between listening through the great work that came before. I honestly love this sound almost equally but I can for sure tell where the shining gold rests under the murky black tendrils that is Bathory. Not only did Quorthon spur forward black metal more than most but also his presence in Viking metal is without a doubt, once again there really wasn't anyone doing black metal fully in 1984 and the same can be said about Viking metal in 1990. He followed his own path and put out great work that gets you lost in thought while you listen along. If you need me to sell you more about this song then let me tell you about the lyrics. Quorthon is mighty talented with the pen even if you cannot fully understand what the hell he is saying in the first 4 albums. This song covers the Christianization of Scandinavia which if you know anything about Viking culture, it isn't a good thing. If you aren't a history buff or never looked into the history of the norsemen I highly suggest it and maybe working backwards is a good play and you can start with reading into what this song is about. Anyways, a classic for the early sound for Viking metal. It makes you feel like you are standing on the shore as you watch your village burn. You can feel the cloudiness in the old man's eyes as another man's religion crushes everything he has believed his whole life. You can feel the trudging grind of the music as it inspires adventure. You can smell the metallic stench in the air as bodies lay in the mud and snow. Bathory always does a great job of painting a picture. If the mental picture isn’t enough this is the only Bathory song with a music video (I think) so you can watch along.
Year Released: 1990
Album: Hammerheart (1990)
Genre: Viking Metal
Mood: Slow & Steady
Perfect For: Sitting around a camp fire, Casual listening, Desolate driving
Where To Next: "The Hardship of the Scots" - Darkthrone
Rating: 7/10
Bathory is a band that came a little later into my life though its impact on it is equal to many bands I have carried with me since I first found out how to turn on the radio. I cannot get enough of the band, be it their black metal sound or the more atmospheric based viking metal sound that was Quorthon's bread and butter up until his death in 2004. Bathory is a band that always amazes me, their sound isn't intricate or crazy but the fact that it is one person for the most part doing each part blows my mind. The cherry on top is that Bathory came along with a truly original sound in 1984 with their self-titled debut. Quorthon put out an album that changed the tide of heavy metal music, creating a place where atmosphere takes precedence over speed. Being pretty well the first true black metal band to pop up isn't something to take lightly, then to release mostly good albums throughout your career is also something not to take lightly. I know the sound ain't for everyone but is there ever? If this is your first time listening to Bathory know that their black metal sound is really where the gold is, the sound we hear on "One Rode to ASA Bay" is great for chilling you out between listening through the great work that came before. I honestly love this sound almost equally but I can for sure tell where the shining gold rests under the murky black tendrils that is Bathory. Not only did Quorthon spur forward black metal more than most but also his presence in Viking metal is without a doubt, once again there really wasn't anyone doing black metal fully in 1984 and the same can be said about Viking metal in 1990. He followed his own path and put out great work that gets you lost in thought while you listen along. If you need me to sell you more about this song then let me tell you about the lyrics. Quorthon is mighty talented with the pen even if you cannot fully understand what the hell he is saying in the first 4 albums. This song covers the Christianization of Scandinavia which if you know anything about Viking culture, it isn't a good thing. If you aren't a history buff or never looked into the history of the norsemen I highly suggest it and maybe working backwards is a good play and you can start with reading into what this song is about. Anyways, a classic for the early sound for Viking metal. It makes you feel like you are standing on the shore as you watch your village burn. You can feel the cloudiness in the old man's eyes as another man's religion crushes everything he has believed his whole life. You can feel the trudging grind of the music as it inspires adventure. You can smell the metallic stench in the air as bodies lay in the mud and snow. Bathory always does a great job of painting a picture. If the mental picture isn’t enough this is the only Bathory song with a music video (I think) so you can watch along.
Year Released: 1990
Album: Hammerheart (1990)
Genre: Viking Metal
Mood: Slow & Steady
Perfect For: Sitting around a camp fire, Casual listening, Desolate driving
Where To Next: "The Hardship of the Scots" - Darkthrone
Rating: 7/10
Song of the Day 01/10/2025
"I Wanna Get a Job in the City" - The Kids
What new songs did I find this Friday? A mellow piece called "Weightless Again" by The Handsome Family. I also got further into the Cockney Rebels and added a couple to my always growing punk collection. Though those two pale in comparison to a band that somehow flew right over my head all these years. The Kids are a Belgian punk band that didn't find all too much fame but still left their impact on punk music in Belgium and are one of the most respected punk groups over there if not the most respected to come out of Belgium even if the pickings are limited. Anyhow, I was driving on the freeway when "I Wanna Get a Job in the City" kicked on, with that intro made me have to physically hold my leg back from putting the pedal to the metal. A great intro that kicks off a song that dances around your brain hours after you listened to it. I am not too fond of the lyrics but I cannot get enough of that intro and the other parts. I love it when punk brings in a little bit of that rockabilly country feeling but still can overpower it with a punk aggression. Later that day I listened to half of their self-titled and found plenty more great songs. Some that are bleeding punk like "Fascist Cops" and others that are kick ass boppers such as this track here and "This Is Rock 'N Roll". I was left impressed but also annoyed that I have to do once again another band's deep dive to collect all the stuff I missed, damn glad to find a new band but not as glad to add more work onto the heaping load I will never finish before I die. But I do it for you dear reader! I do it for rock n roll, I do it for the love of music! I do it for me too since I get a buzz when I find another great band. An addictive feeling. Anyways, check the band out! Another hidden gem served piping hot!
Year Released: 1978
Album: The Kids (1978)
Genre: Punk Rock
Mood: Energetic
Perfect For: Driving on the freeway, Casual listening
Where To Next: "One Chord Wonders" - The Adverts
Rating: 7/10
What new songs did I find this Friday? A mellow piece called "Weightless Again" by The Handsome Family. I also got further into the Cockney Rebels and added a couple to my always growing punk collection. Though those two pale in comparison to a band that somehow flew right over my head all these years. The Kids are a Belgian punk band that didn't find all too much fame but still left their impact on punk music in Belgium and are one of the most respected punk groups over there if not the most respected to come out of Belgium even if the pickings are limited. Anyhow, I was driving on the freeway when "I Wanna Get a Job in the City" kicked on, with that intro made me have to physically hold my leg back from putting the pedal to the metal. A great intro that kicks off a song that dances around your brain hours after you listened to it. I am not too fond of the lyrics but I cannot get enough of that intro and the other parts. I love it when punk brings in a little bit of that rockabilly country feeling but still can overpower it with a punk aggression. Later that day I listened to half of their self-titled and found plenty more great songs. Some that are bleeding punk like "Fascist Cops" and others that are kick ass boppers such as this track here and "This Is Rock 'N Roll". I was left impressed but also annoyed that I have to do once again another band's deep dive to collect all the stuff I missed, damn glad to find a new band but not as glad to add more work onto the heaping load I will never finish before I die. But I do it for you dear reader! I do it for rock n roll, I do it for the love of music! I do it for me too since I get a buzz when I find another great band. An addictive feeling. Anyways, check the band out! Another hidden gem served piping hot!
Year Released: 1978
Album: The Kids (1978)
Genre: Punk Rock
Mood: Energetic
Perfect For: Driving on the freeway, Casual listening
Where To Next: "One Chord Wonders" - The Adverts
Rating: 7/10
Song of the Day 01/09/2025
"At the Mountains of Madness" - Orphanage
For those that come to this section of the website for that rockin' and reelin' boogie I am sorry I have let you down this month buuuut for the people that like heavier music than you're welcome! Most of this month I must be really diggin the more metal and punk side of my collection, and I am not even sorry. For today we have an obscure one, the underrated Orphanage. Sort of an odd band name but the sound sort of matches, I mean if that Orphanage takes in children to feed them to the beast in the basement. Orphanage is a unique band, they do a great job of melding gothic metal with death metal and adding a little progressive metal to tie it all together, creating an acquired taste sound that helped them stand apart from the many extreme metal bands that were present in 1996. The band released 4 albums, none gathering too much attention and they are one of many bands buried under the ashes of the bands that came before and the bands that came after. I have only made it halfway through their discography so far but from what I can put together their 1996 release By Time Alone is their high point but I am still excited to see what their 2000's work has in store. "At the Mountains of Madness" keeps you entertained throughout the song, they switch it up often enough and keep it beautiful while also quite ugly. I have always shared a love hate relationship with gothic metal, I am picky about the bands I choose, but there still are a ton that are on my guest list. As soon as this album kicked off for my deep dive I knew I had to add another name to the list. It sounded great in my sound system in my truck and now that I am listening to it again with my cheaper computer speakers I am still impressed with it. At 3:20 when the song kicks off gives me chills and has me jamming with it with my creaking computer chair holding on for dear life, if the neighbors walk by the window they are sure to get the wrong idea. It isn't an orgasm, it is an eargasm! Anyways I was impressed with this album much more than I thought I would be, by the end I had to give a song or two another listen at full blast. While it might not be for everyone, it was for me!
Year Released: 1996
Album: By Time Alone (1996)
Genre: Gothic Metal, Melodic Death Metal
Mood: Haunting
Perfect For: Deep listening, Delving into caverns and dungeons
Where To Next: "Female Poison" - Poema Arcanus
Rating: 7/10
For those that come to this section of the website for that rockin' and reelin' boogie I am sorry I have let you down this month buuuut for the people that like heavier music than you're welcome! Most of this month I must be really diggin the more metal and punk side of my collection, and I am not even sorry. For today we have an obscure one, the underrated Orphanage. Sort of an odd band name but the sound sort of matches, I mean if that Orphanage takes in children to feed them to the beast in the basement. Orphanage is a unique band, they do a great job of melding gothic metal with death metal and adding a little progressive metal to tie it all together, creating an acquired taste sound that helped them stand apart from the many extreme metal bands that were present in 1996. The band released 4 albums, none gathering too much attention and they are one of many bands buried under the ashes of the bands that came before and the bands that came after. I have only made it halfway through their discography so far but from what I can put together their 1996 release By Time Alone is their high point but I am still excited to see what their 2000's work has in store. "At the Mountains of Madness" keeps you entertained throughout the song, they switch it up often enough and keep it beautiful while also quite ugly. I have always shared a love hate relationship with gothic metal, I am picky about the bands I choose, but there still are a ton that are on my guest list. As soon as this album kicked off for my deep dive I knew I had to add another name to the list. It sounded great in my sound system in my truck and now that I am listening to it again with my cheaper computer speakers I am still impressed with it. At 3:20 when the song kicks off gives me chills and has me jamming with it with my creaking computer chair holding on for dear life, if the neighbors walk by the window they are sure to get the wrong idea. It isn't an orgasm, it is an eargasm! Anyways I was impressed with this album much more than I thought I would be, by the end I had to give a song or two another listen at full blast. While it might not be for everyone, it was for me!
Year Released: 1996
Album: By Time Alone (1996)
Genre: Gothic Metal, Melodic Death Metal
Mood: Haunting
Perfect For: Deep listening, Delving into caverns and dungeons
Where To Next: "Female Poison" - Poema Arcanus
Rating: 7/10
Song of the Day 01/08/2025
"Carolina County Ball" - Elf
Ronnie James Dio is not only one of the most respected musicians in rock music but also one I would put on the heavy metal mount rushmore... mount rockmore if you will.... mount moshmore..? Anyways most anything Ronnie James Dio was a part of became gold, how could it not though? He has some seriously impressive vocals and a stage presence that commands magic. We all know Dio, Rainbow and his work in Black Sabbath but most metalheads and rockers forget about the hidden gem Elf, his first band to truly make a mark and set him on a path to becoming a legend. While not hitting the same fame and power that he found in his later bands it was because Elf that he got noticed by Ritchie Blackmore who was about to part ways with Deep Purple and there came the legendary band Rainbow, annnd well the rest is history. For now though we look at the heavy boogie that comes off of Elf. When I first came across the band I was knocked back and had to catch my breath. A realm between one of my favorite metal gods and the blues rock I was infatuated with at the time (and still am). I started on their debut but after I abused that so heavily I knew every word to every song I decided to move on to their second album Carolina County Ball. While it is a tad bit weaker than their debut I still found so many kick ass songs in its 9 tracks but it is honestly hard to outshine the title track that we are talking about today. I think Ronnie James Dio and keyboardist Mickey Lee Soule (also later part of Rainbow) are a fine lyricism duo. With those lyrics and the band laying down some damn fun music we are left with a memorable sound and a half memorable album. "Carolina County Ball" is a laid back track that has an amateur good time feeling to it. It feels like you are at the Carolina county ball watching a band rave and jam on that stage, A+ for atmosphere. Simple music to dip your feet into and bob your head. In some ways I wish Ronnie James Dio kept with this sound for a little longer, I think his voice is really intense in the more calm blues based rock. Still, he was bound for glory and his voice is certainly made for heavy metal and a harder sound. I make sure to come back to their debut and second album quite often, I hardly ever get sick of it since it is just such a good time.
Year Released: 1974
Album: Carolina County Ball (1974)
Genre: Boogie Rock
Mood: Fun, Mellow
Perfect For: Casual listening, Having one too many, Relaxing
Where To Next: "Gimme Three Steps" - Lynyrd Skynyrd
Rating: 8/10
Ronnie James Dio is not only one of the most respected musicians in rock music but also one I would put on the heavy metal mount rushmore... mount rockmore if you will.... mount moshmore..? Anyways most anything Ronnie James Dio was a part of became gold, how could it not though? He has some seriously impressive vocals and a stage presence that commands magic. We all know Dio, Rainbow and his work in Black Sabbath but most metalheads and rockers forget about the hidden gem Elf, his first band to truly make a mark and set him on a path to becoming a legend. While not hitting the same fame and power that he found in his later bands it was because Elf that he got noticed by Ritchie Blackmore who was about to part ways with Deep Purple and there came the legendary band Rainbow, annnd well the rest is history. For now though we look at the heavy boogie that comes off of Elf. When I first came across the band I was knocked back and had to catch my breath. A realm between one of my favorite metal gods and the blues rock I was infatuated with at the time (and still am). I started on their debut but after I abused that so heavily I knew every word to every song I decided to move on to their second album Carolina County Ball. While it is a tad bit weaker than their debut I still found so many kick ass songs in its 9 tracks but it is honestly hard to outshine the title track that we are talking about today. I think Ronnie James Dio and keyboardist Mickey Lee Soule (also later part of Rainbow) are a fine lyricism duo. With those lyrics and the band laying down some damn fun music we are left with a memorable sound and a half memorable album. "Carolina County Ball" is a laid back track that has an amateur good time feeling to it. It feels like you are at the Carolina county ball watching a band rave and jam on that stage, A+ for atmosphere. Simple music to dip your feet into and bob your head. In some ways I wish Ronnie James Dio kept with this sound for a little longer, I think his voice is really intense in the more calm blues based rock. Still, he was bound for glory and his voice is certainly made for heavy metal and a harder sound. I make sure to come back to their debut and second album quite often, I hardly ever get sick of it since it is just such a good time.
Year Released: 1974
Album: Carolina County Ball (1974)
Genre: Boogie Rock
Mood: Fun, Mellow
Perfect For: Casual listening, Having one too many, Relaxing
Where To Next: "Gimme Three Steps" - Lynyrd Skynyrd
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/07/2025
"Constant Motion" - Dream Theater
Crazy to think it took us 245 songs until Dream Theater was chosen for a song of the day. They are one of those bands that either grab you instantly or slowly suck you in until you are hooked. In some ways the band took me a second or two to get into when I first started studying heavy metal music but eventually I understood and I can hardly go a week without craving many of their songs. Arguably the most successful band to come out of the progressive metal scene. The type of group that doesn't seem to be slowing down even with their rough start in 1989 being over 30 years ago. The band might have tripped and fell through their first album but by the time their follow up Images and Words came out in 1992 it was clear they were bound for glory by the grace of the metal gods. Dream Theater did a great job of keeping their core sound while still expanding enough to keep with the times. I have a sweet spot for their 1990's work but the albums that came out in the 2000's are in some ways better than the previous albums and their material from the 2010's is literally jaw dropping yet still I am hard to win over from spending a good portion of my time in their 1990’s work. I have yet to make it over to 2021's A View from the Top of the World but I am excited to take it in, maybe I will do it before their most recent album releases in February. Anyways, today we are talking of "Constant Motion" the shining and ever powerful track from their 2007 album Systematic Chaos. In my opinion it is the strongest track on the album, it sucks you in with a great intro but it isn't until the 4 minute mark that the band really grips you with their iconic sound. But don't you dare skip ahead to see what I am talking about! Dream Theater is like listening to Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon. If you rush it and don't take the time to appreciate the vibration, the whole musical piece is gonna fly right over your head. I love "Constant Motion" for its well... constant motion. By the time the song sort of starts to grow stale they kick it up full gear at the 3:30 mark for 2 minutes until releasing you back into the chorus. The band does a damn good job at keeping your ears tuned in, and their famous way of melding lyricism with imagery keeps your brain locked in. What about your body? Well there comes Mike Portnoy, one of the most impressive drummers in music, sickeningly so. We cannot forget about John Petrucci, a guitar virtuoso that plays that guitar as flawlessly as he plays your cochlea. It is easy said that Dream Theater is filled to the brim with outstanding musicians. A great band through and through that always drops me dead when I take the time to listen to them and give it my full attention. Maybe this is your calling to try it out and see what I mean, if this one doesn't grab you then maybe try out the legendary "Metropolis - Part I: The Miracle and the Sleeper" or the personal favorite "On the Backs of Angels".
Year Released: 2007
Album: Systematic Chaos (2007)
Genre: Progressive Metal
Mood: Powerful
Perfect For: Deep listening, Closing your eyes and relaxing, Waking up to, Driving
Where To Next: "Temple of Circadia" - John Petrucci
Rating: 8/10
Crazy to think it took us 245 songs until Dream Theater was chosen for a song of the day. They are one of those bands that either grab you instantly or slowly suck you in until you are hooked. In some ways the band took me a second or two to get into when I first started studying heavy metal music but eventually I understood and I can hardly go a week without craving many of their songs. Arguably the most successful band to come out of the progressive metal scene. The type of group that doesn't seem to be slowing down even with their rough start in 1989 being over 30 years ago. The band might have tripped and fell through their first album but by the time their follow up Images and Words came out in 1992 it was clear they were bound for glory by the grace of the metal gods. Dream Theater did a great job of keeping their core sound while still expanding enough to keep with the times. I have a sweet spot for their 1990's work but the albums that came out in the 2000's are in some ways better than the previous albums and their material from the 2010's is literally jaw dropping yet still I am hard to win over from spending a good portion of my time in their 1990’s work. I have yet to make it over to 2021's A View from the Top of the World but I am excited to take it in, maybe I will do it before their most recent album releases in February. Anyways, today we are talking of "Constant Motion" the shining and ever powerful track from their 2007 album Systematic Chaos. In my opinion it is the strongest track on the album, it sucks you in with a great intro but it isn't until the 4 minute mark that the band really grips you with their iconic sound. But don't you dare skip ahead to see what I am talking about! Dream Theater is like listening to Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon. If you rush it and don't take the time to appreciate the vibration, the whole musical piece is gonna fly right over your head. I love "Constant Motion" for its well... constant motion. By the time the song sort of starts to grow stale they kick it up full gear at the 3:30 mark for 2 minutes until releasing you back into the chorus. The band does a damn good job at keeping your ears tuned in, and their famous way of melding lyricism with imagery keeps your brain locked in. What about your body? Well there comes Mike Portnoy, one of the most impressive drummers in music, sickeningly so. We cannot forget about John Petrucci, a guitar virtuoso that plays that guitar as flawlessly as he plays your cochlea. It is easy said that Dream Theater is filled to the brim with outstanding musicians. A great band through and through that always drops me dead when I take the time to listen to them and give it my full attention. Maybe this is your calling to try it out and see what I mean, if this one doesn't grab you then maybe try out the legendary "Metropolis - Part I: The Miracle and the Sleeper" or the personal favorite "On the Backs of Angels".
Year Released: 2007
Album: Systematic Chaos (2007)
Genre: Progressive Metal
Mood: Powerful
Perfect For: Deep listening, Closing your eyes and relaxing, Waking up to, Driving
Where To Next: "Temple of Circadia" - John Petrucci
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/06/2025
"Hey" - The Suicide Machines
A tried and true classic in the ska punk genre and in punk music as a whole. It came around at a great time in punk music, easily winning fans from the old punks, the ska punks, the skate punks and the budding punks of the time. It isn't shocking that the band was punk without the titles, I mean the album is named Destruction by Definition which was chosen under the idea "if you place a label on something you destroy it" which is not only punk as hell but also a big middle finger in my face since I try placing everything under a genre and I will do it with this song too so ha ha. The Suicide Machines live in the middle of the road with being famous as sin while also being known by nobody it seems. I have always respected them and have liked a handful of songs for a couple of years but it wasn't until recently that I listened to this full album from start to finish. I dig it, there is some serious electricity coming off the band. Its ska elements aren't too silly like many of the groups but they don't stray too far from the path to make you feel confused about who they are supposed to be. I think "Hey" is one of the strongest tracks from the album which is saying something since most of the album is feverishly great! An all consuming sound that forces you to have a great time and it doesn’t even ask permission or your name. I listened through the album again to pick out the great tracks while on my conquest of 1996. When I saw those Vans shoes pop up at the bottom of the album I knew I was in for a great time. A perfect album to listen to after hanging out with a friend at the bar which is when the song was chosen. If there was an album that got you in the ballpark of how cocaine feels then this might be the album, but that might be a person by person opinion kind of thing. It is electric and exhilarating while also damn stressful but in a… good way? If you dig this song I strongly suggest giving the album a go, while not every song is the best thing ever there are more than enough great songs that it leaves a pretty heavy impact on you. Easily one of the best punk albums to come out of the 1990's and "Hey" hangs out near the top for the best track on the album.
Year Released: 1996
Album: Destruction by Definition (1996)
Genre: Ska Punk, Hardcore Punk
Mood: Electric
Perfect For: Driving in the rain, Too much caffeine, Nicotine buzzes
Where To Next: "Dopeman" - Less Than Jake
Rating: 8/10
A tried and true classic in the ska punk genre and in punk music as a whole. It came around at a great time in punk music, easily winning fans from the old punks, the ska punks, the skate punks and the budding punks of the time. It isn't shocking that the band was punk without the titles, I mean the album is named Destruction by Definition which was chosen under the idea "if you place a label on something you destroy it" which is not only punk as hell but also a big middle finger in my face since I try placing everything under a genre and I will do it with this song too so ha ha. The Suicide Machines live in the middle of the road with being famous as sin while also being known by nobody it seems. I have always respected them and have liked a handful of songs for a couple of years but it wasn't until recently that I listened to this full album from start to finish. I dig it, there is some serious electricity coming off the band. Its ska elements aren't too silly like many of the groups but they don't stray too far from the path to make you feel confused about who they are supposed to be. I think "Hey" is one of the strongest tracks from the album which is saying something since most of the album is feverishly great! An all consuming sound that forces you to have a great time and it doesn’t even ask permission or your name. I listened through the album again to pick out the great tracks while on my conquest of 1996. When I saw those Vans shoes pop up at the bottom of the album I knew I was in for a great time. A perfect album to listen to after hanging out with a friend at the bar which is when the song was chosen. If there was an album that got you in the ballpark of how cocaine feels then this might be the album, but that might be a person by person opinion kind of thing. It is electric and exhilarating while also damn stressful but in a… good way? If you dig this song I strongly suggest giving the album a go, while not every song is the best thing ever there are more than enough great songs that it leaves a pretty heavy impact on you. Easily one of the best punk albums to come out of the 1990's and "Hey" hangs out near the top for the best track on the album.
Year Released: 1996
Album: Destruction by Definition (1996)
Genre: Ska Punk, Hardcore Punk
Mood: Electric
Perfect For: Driving in the rain, Too much caffeine, Nicotine buzzes
Where To Next: "Dopeman" - Less Than Jake
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/05/2025
"Heart and Soul" - The Cleftones
Doo-wop has a massive graveyard or quality groups that got lost in the whirlwind of time and the Cleftones have one of the prettiest headstones there. While the band was fairly short lived they had a couple of hit singles but none proved itself to strive against the whirlwind of time like "Heart and Soul". Its inclusion in popular movies such as American Graffiti and its presence in most any Doo-Wop compilation kept this song alive same could be said about their other two big hits "Can't We Be Sweethearts" and "Little Girl of Mine". "Heart and Soul" has followed me a damn long time throughout my life much like many doo-wop classics. The Cleftones know how to sing you to tears and their natural ability to pull together those mellow harmonies puts them up there with the best of them within their genre. "Heart and Soul" was around for a good while before the Cleftones did their recording of it. Originally from Larry Clinton & His Orchestra, a 1938 smooth as butter jazz number that melts you to the core especially the main version with Bea Wain singing, another big artist from the big band era of music. In the end I really don't think any version holds a candle to the great performance we hear on the Cleftones version. It is a shame the group didn't have a longer go at it, who knows what would have come but the tides were shifting in rock music and it gave way to the British invasion to sweep the rug out from under doowop musicians. Some things are meant to happen but still sometimes I wish that doowop musicians still had a heavy presence like they did throughout the 1950's into the early cherry cola 1960's days of rock, pop and R&B, a time when they were all rockin' under the same roof. I am damn proud to have this song on the website since it is one that I feel like I was born with it playing in my head. Enjoy!
Year Released: 1961
Single: Heart and Soul / How Do You Feel? (1961)
Chosen Compilation: The Best of the Cleftones (2013?)
Genre: Doo-Wop, Rhythm & Blues
Mood: Romantic
Perfect For: Casual listening, Romantic drives, Relaxing at home
Where To Next: "The Book of Love" - The Monotones
Rating: 8/10
Doo-wop has a massive graveyard or quality groups that got lost in the whirlwind of time and the Cleftones have one of the prettiest headstones there. While the band was fairly short lived they had a couple of hit singles but none proved itself to strive against the whirlwind of time like "Heart and Soul". Its inclusion in popular movies such as American Graffiti and its presence in most any Doo-Wop compilation kept this song alive same could be said about their other two big hits "Can't We Be Sweethearts" and "Little Girl of Mine". "Heart and Soul" has followed me a damn long time throughout my life much like many doo-wop classics. The Cleftones know how to sing you to tears and their natural ability to pull together those mellow harmonies puts them up there with the best of them within their genre. "Heart and Soul" was around for a good while before the Cleftones did their recording of it. Originally from Larry Clinton & His Orchestra, a 1938 smooth as butter jazz number that melts you to the core especially the main version with Bea Wain singing, another big artist from the big band era of music. In the end I really don't think any version holds a candle to the great performance we hear on the Cleftones version. It is a shame the group didn't have a longer go at it, who knows what would have come but the tides were shifting in rock music and it gave way to the British invasion to sweep the rug out from under doowop musicians. Some things are meant to happen but still sometimes I wish that doowop musicians still had a heavy presence like they did throughout the 1950's into the early cherry cola 1960's days of rock, pop and R&B, a time when they were all rockin' under the same roof. I am damn proud to have this song on the website since it is one that I feel like I was born with it playing in my head. Enjoy!
Year Released: 1961
Single: Heart and Soul / How Do You Feel? (1961)
Chosen Compilation: The Best of the Cleftones (2013?)
Genre: Doo-Wop, Rhythm & Blues
Mood: Romantic
Perfect For: Casual listening, Romantic drives, Relaxing at home
Where To Next: "The Book of Love" - The Monotones
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/04/2025
"Somethin' Bout Truckee" - 880 South
I have been hooked on this song since I first came across it a couple of years back. A great travelling song and one that is built for adventure, which is exactly what I was doing when this song was chosen. Me and my girlfriend tend to go on an adventure once a week if our pocketbooks allow it and if my truck can handle it. We have seen most that Utah has to offer since starting our quest for Utah hidden gems, naturally you cannot see it all but each weekend we sure try. I was planning out where to go the day prior and it occurred to me that I have never actually thought about trying to get to the exact corner of the Utah/Wyoming border that gives Utah its shape. After some minor digging it turns out you can get there fairly easily with hardly any offroading.... in summer. So after driving on a desolate road for a long while slipping on ice and feeling like we were in Ozzy Osbourne’s nose from the vast amount of snow, we finally got within a half mile and came to a stop due to deep untouched snow. We came to terms with the fact we would certainly get stuck if we tried going any further. Soooo that will have to wait until the snow leaves, but maybe it was meant to be. It was almost destined that we followed the lyrics of this song as we started getting close to Salt Lake City via I-80. I hate that stretch of highway, a shitty angle and a morbid mix of people going 35 and 80 no matter what the weather might be. I tend to try avoiding it but I didn't feel like going the same way back and I for sure didn't wanna fuck around Park City during peak snowboarding/skiing season on a Saturday. Anyways back to the music. 880 South is a sunshine kind of band, songs for kicking back and relaxing. They are criminally overlooked, it is crazy this album came out in 2008 and I have yet to see their name in bright lights. A great band that followed along with the California reggae rock scene, a scene that has birthed so many great groups I would need a few more hands to count them all. Though like in reggae style, a good majority of them are more local type groups that never really broke out too far from home. A tremendous shame since groups like 880 South could hold up next to some of the greats in modern reggae music and the reggae of yesteryear. Saturday was already a great day, but with the help of "Somethin' Bout Truckee" it was all that much better. Great song, great lyricism, great atmosphere, great performance, and a great one while driving through the mountain on I-80.
Year Released: 2008
Album: Youth Bus Sessions (2008)
Genre: Reggae Rock, Reggae
Mood: Chill
Perfect For: Relaxing, Travelling, Gettin' a buzz, Casual listening
Where To Next: "Greatest-Hits" - Sublime
Rating: 9/10
I have been hooked on this song since I first came across it a couple of years back. A great travelling song and one that is built for adventure, which is exactly what I was doing when this song was chosen. Me and my girlfriend tend to go on an adventure once a week if our pocketbooks allow it and if my truck can handle it. We have seen most that Utah has to offer since starting our quest for Utah hidden gems, naturally you cannot see it all but each weekend we sure try. I was planning out where to go the day prior and it occurred to me that I have never actually thought about trying to get to the exact corner of the Utah/Wyoming border that gives Utah its shape. After some minor digging it turns out you can get there fairly easily with hardly any offroading.... in summer. So after driving on a desolate road for a long while slipping on ice and feeling like we were in Ozzy Osbourne’s nose from the vast amount of snow, we finally got within a half mile and came to a stop due to deep untouched snow. We came to terms with the fact we would certainly get stuck if we tried going any further. Soooo that will have to wait until the snow leaves, but maybe it was meant to be. It was almost destined that we followed the lyrics of this song as we started getting close to Salt Lake City via I-80. I hate that stretch of highway, a shitty angle and a morbid mix of people going 35 and 80 no matter what the weather might be. I tend to try avoiding it but I didn't feel like going the same way back and I for sure didn't wanna fuck around Park City during peak snowboarding/skiing season on a Saturday. Anyways back to the music. 880 South is a sunshine kind of band, songs for kicking back and relaxing. They are criminally overlooked, it is crazy this album came out in 2008 and I have yet to see their name in bright lights. A great band that followed along with the California reggae rock scene, a scene that has birthed so many great groups I would need a few more hands to count them all. Though like in reggae style, a good majority of them are more local type groups that never really broke out too far from home. A tremendous shame since groups like 880 South could hold up next to some of the greats in modern reggae music and the reggae of yesteryear. Saturday was already a great day, but with the help of "Somethin' Bout Truckee" it was all that much better. Great song, great lyricism, great atmosphere, great performance, and a great one while driving through the mountain on I-80.
Year Released: 2008
Album: Youth Bus Sessions (2008)
Genre: Reggae Rock, Reggae
Mood: Chill
Perfect For: Relaxing, Travelling, Gettin' a buzz, Casual listening
Where To Next: "Greatest-Hits" - Sublime
Rating: 9/10
Song of the Day 01/03/2025
"Antpile 2" - Kublai Khan TX
It seems we are starting this month off with a bang, a grenade blast of metal and punk but knowing how it typically plays out there will be some obscure chill song next. Either way for now we bang our heads and sharpen our swords. Kublai Khan has proven themselves a serious force to behold since they shook the earth with their 2017 album Nomad and from there they have kept a steady pace to the king's throne. While they are hit and miss with me there is enough that impresses me through and through. Their most popular track (on Spotify) is an instrumental that takes the breath from your lungs. "Antpile" is brutal as all hell and goes down so smooth, with it being an instrumental there is no reason that any self-respecting metalhead couldn't get behind its blitzkrieg. So there I was nearing the end of my work day and I noticed they released a new album a couple of months back, and to make it that much greater the final track on the album was simply titled "Antpile 2". I instantly threw it on the queue in hopes it could get even close to the glory that is "Antpile". Lucky for me it was another instrumental and was just as kick ass, it feels like a direct sequel to the previous. The only difference this time is the lyrics, in "Antpile 2" it has the insightful and wise words of "two" before knocking you dead. This is probably the shortest song that has shown up on the song of the day section of the website so far, barely missing the minute mark, but with this much power it easily makes you feel like you have lived a whole life before the song ends. I am impressed once again with Kublai Khan, a band that surprisingly grabbed me one night while drinking. To my girlfriend's forever prideful knowledge that she turned me on to a band since that is usually my job. I listened about halfway through their most recent album Exhibition of Prowess and I am glad to see that they didn't lose touch 10 years into their career, if anything they outshone some of their previous albums. I am excited to get further into the album when I get a chance, I couldn't help but get beat down and lifted up by this song though so it isn't shocking it was the chosen track for Friday.
Year Released: 2024
Album: Exhibition of Prowess (2024)
Genre: Metalcore
Mood: Brutal
Perfect For: Casual listening, Fast paced activities
Where To Next: "Another Nail for Your Coffin" - Lamb of God (Feat. Kublai Khan TX & Malevolence)
Rating: 8/10
It seems we are starting this month off with a bang, a grenade blast of metal and punk but knowing how it typically plays out there will be some obscure chill song next. Either way for now we bang our heads and sharpen our swords. Kublai Khan has proven themselves a serious force to behold since they shook the earth with their 2017 album Nomad and from there they have kept a steady pace to the king's throne. While they are hit and miss with me there is enough that impresses me through and through. Their most popular track (on Spotify) is an instrumental that takes the breath from your lungs. "Antpile" is brutal as all hell and goes down so smooth, with it being an instrumental there is no reason that any self-respecting metalhead couldn't get behind its blitzkrieg. So there I was nearing the end of my work day and I noticed they released a new album a couple of months back, and to make it that much greater the final track on the album was simply titled "Antpile 2". I instantly threw it on the queue in hopes it could get even close to the glory that is "Antpile". Lucky for me it was another instrumental and was just as kick ass, it feels like a direct sequel to the previous. The only difference this time is the lyrics, in "Antpile 2" it has the insightful and wise words of "two" before knocking you dead. This is probably the shortest song that has shown up on the song of the day section of the website so far, barely missing the minute mark, but with this much power it easily makes you feel like you have lived a whole life before the song ends. I am impressed once again with Kublai Khan, a band that surprisingly grabbed me one night while drinking. To my girlfriend's forever prideful knowledge that she turned me on to a band since that is usually my job. I listened about halfway through their most recent album Exhibition of Prowess and I am glad to see that they didn't lose touch 10 years into their career, if anything they outshone some of their previous albums. I am excited to get further into the album when I get a chance, I couldn't help but get beat down and lifted up by this song though so it isn't shocking it was the chosen track for Friday.
Year Released: 2024
Album: Exhibition of Prowess (2024)
Genre: Metalcore
Mood: Brutal
Perfect For: Casual listening, Fast paced activities
Where To Next: "Another Nail for Your Coffin" - Lamb of God (Feat. Kublai Khan TX & Malevolence)
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/02/2025
"Filth Pig" - Ministry
It takes me so long not to type or write "2024" during the awkward transition between years. Wonder how much stuff I messed up at work and just didn't realize it. Guess I will see when my boss comes calling. Anyways I am excited to talk about this track from one of my favorite bands! Ministry is a band of legend in the heavy metal world. They are one of the pioneers of industrial metal and are arguably one of the most important bands for innovation. They started out with a completely different style. Their debut With Sympathy is not the place to start with the band, it is synth-pop all the way through and hardly shows off what makes Ministry the band we talk of today. Their follow up album Twitch is a little bit closer but you can feel the growing pains of turning into the chaotic and great band called Ministry. It is sort of like the second evolution of most starter Pokemon, just sort of odd looking and uncomfortable. Finally once their third album The Land of Rape and Honey came out Al Jourgensen finally got the recipe down to becoming a legend and having a truly unique sound. Ministry has had countless great albums and even now they are putting out great material. It is hard to keep such a fever rolling throughout your career, and while there has been big ups and downs, Jourgensen and Ministry have kept fans hooked since their conception. "Filth Pig" comes off the album of the same name, an infamous album that split fans and wasn't all too much of an instant classic even with this album being the bands highest ranking album on the charts to date. The album that came before this one, Psalm 69, was perfect so following up something so great is a task most bands falter at and Ministry is no different. I personally love this album, and have so many great memories revolving around its loud as hell sludgy sound. Is it their best album? No. Is it an album that is modernly underrated and I think plenty of modern metalheads could get behind? Yes. When slowly going through the bands discography when I was 11 I had such mixed emotions on the album. I was used to a certain brand of heaviness not this slow but shaking style that Ministry was releasing during this point in their career. "Reload" kicks the album off with fever and by the time "Filth Pig" takes control you are a touch stomach sick but so entranced. I used to ride my bike around town with my headphones playing this song and "Lava" loud as I could stand. Doing nothing but rocking out and riding around town holds some of my dearest memories. The love affair between music and movement planted its seed in me at a young age. Since then I have blared "Filth Pig" from every vehicle I have owned. Growing up is playing that music you listened to loud on your bicycle to playing it loud while cruising through towns on your motorcycle. I chose this great song while going through the album again for my 1996 deep dive while driving through traffic. A fitting song for watching the chaos of stupid drivers that seemed to forget how to drive after the holidays. It was hard picking between multiple of the tracks on the album but ultimately I settled on the title track. This is probably not the best place to start with Ministry since it is an acquired taste kind of album. Al Jourgensen made it a point to not have too much of the band's industrial side on this album. That industrial electronic side is where Ministry shines so maybe go check that out first, namely "Thieves". If you like this style then give the album a full swing, and a track or two from the comically named live album that supported the tour Sphinctour.
Year Released: 1996
Album: Filth Pig (1996)
Genre: Sludge Metal, Industrial Metal
Mood: Over-encumbered
Perfect For: Casual listening, Riding a motorcycle, Slow cruising at a high speed (if you know what I mean)
Where To Next: "Hooch" - Melvins
Rating: 8/10
It takes me so long not to type or write "2024" during the awkward transition between years. Wonder how much stuff I messed up at work and just didn't realize it. Guess I will see when my boss comes calling. Anyways I am excited to talk about this track from one of my favorite bands! Ministry is a band of legend in the heavy metal world. They are one of the pioneers of industrial metal and are arguably one of the most important bands for innovation. They started out with a completely different style. Their debut With Sympathy is not the place to start with the band, it is synth-pop all the way through and hardly shows off what makes Ministry the band we talk of today. Their follow up album Twitch is a little bit closer but you can feel the growing pains of turning into the chaotic and great band called Ministry. It is sort of like the second evolution of most starter Pokemon, just sort of odd looking and uncomfortable. Finally once their third album The Land of Rape and Honey came out Al Jourgensen finally got the recipe down to becoming a legend and having a truly unique sound. Ministry has had countless great albums and even now they are putting out great material. It is hard to keep such a fever rolling throughout your career, and while there has been big ups and downs, Jourgensen and Ministry have kept fans hooked since their conception. "Filth Pig" comes off the album of the same name, an infamous album that split fans and wasn't all too much of an instant classic even with this album being the bands highest ranking album on the charts to date. The album that came before this one, Psalm 69, was perfect so following up something so great is a task most bands falter at and Ministry is no different. I personally love this album, and have so many great memories revolving around its loud as hell sludgy sound. Is it their best album? No. Is it an album that is modernly underrated and I think plenty of modern metalheads could get behind? Yes. When slowly going through the bands discography when I was 11 I had such mixed emotions on the album. I was used to a certain brand of heaviness not this slow but shaking style that Ministry was releasing during this point in their career. "Reload" kicks the album off with fever and by the time "Filth Pig" takes control you are a touch stomach sick but so entranced. I used to ride my bike around town with my headphones playing this song and "Lava" loud as I could stand. Doing nothing but rocking out and riding around town holds some of my dearest memories. The love affair between music and movement planted its seed in me at a young age. Since then I have blared "Filth Pig" from every vehicle I have owned. Growing up is playing that music you listened to loud on your bicycle to playing it loud while cruising through towns on your motorcycle. I chose this great song while going through the album again for my 1996 deep dive while driving through traffic. A fitting song for watching the chaos of stupid drivers that seemed to forget how to drive after the holidays. It was hard picking between multiple of the tracks on the album but ultimately I settled on the title track. This is probably not the best place to start with Ministry since it is an acquired taste kind of album. Al Jourgensen made it a point to not have too much of the band's industrial side on this album. That industrial electronic side is where Ministry shines so maybe go check that out first, namely "Thieves". If you like this style then give the album a full swing, and a track or two from the comically named live album that supported the tour Sphinctour.
Year Released: 1996
Album: Filth Pig (1996)
Genre: Sludge Metal, Industrial Metal
Mood: Over-encumbered
Perfect For: Casual listening, Riding a motorcycle, Slow cruising at a high speed (if you know what I mean)
Where To Next: "Hooch" - Melvins
Rating: 8/10
Song of the Day 01/01/2025
"Hold Your Ground" - Gorilla Biscuits
Welcome to 2025, hope your holidays went well and you didn't wake up too hungover. 2025 is already starting out with some lunacy but is it all too shocking? It seems to get kookier and kookier with each passing year but I think people have always said that. No matter what, I will be here dishing out some A grade songs for your ears. We are starting off the new year on a punk track from the innovative and thrilling Gorilla Biscuits. What they lack in skill of naming their band they make up for 10-fold with a hardcore punk sound that licks the edge of a straight razor. Right for your throat punk music but not so far into the genre that metalheads and others that like hardcore music cannot get behind their sound. This EP is solid and the CD release holds up just as well. Gorilla Biscuits are legends in the hardcore punk world and this EP and their follow up release Start Today show off why they are highly respected, especially Start Today which is a perfect punk album. As is a common theme with punk legends they came, fucked shit up, kissed a baby or two on the head, and then fizzled out. They only released this EP (later turned full album) and their follow up and then said goodbye. There are some bootlegs and a live album but nothing holds up next to their first and only two studio releases. After staying up late watching music videos and drinking sake to celebrate the new year, me and my lady decided to just stay in all day. I cannot stay put to save my life, especially when I am always curious what is over the next hill and I know I have a Tool CD hanging out in the middle console of my truck. After all the stress of the holidays and the running around it was warranted that we just kick our feet up. That and hanging out in bed with the woman I love is one of the greatest things. Few things make you feel more human and at ease than doing that. So I ordered some overpriced DoorDash for some coffee and breakfast sandwiches and got cozy. All morning and most of the day we were listening to some solid punk rock gold, tons of Black Flag, and that is when "Hold Your Ground" came around and I knew it was to be the song of the day. An uplifting and invigorating track that makes your blood pump faster even while just lying in bed. I know that punk isn't for everyone but I am a big fan especially of the hardcore variation from the 1980's. If you dig Black Flag, TSOL, or Minor Threat I think you will really enjoy Gorilla Biscuits. While hitting the legendary status their lack of material makes it so sometimes, they fly under the radar. It took me a little bit of time to find them when I was first getting into punk over 15 years ago. Don't make the same mistake and start today!
Year Released: 1988
EP: Gorilla Biscuits (1988)
Genre: Hardcore Punk
Mood: Invigorating
Perfect For: Raging, Driving fast, Casual listening, Kicking up dust, Working out
Where To Next: "Face the Facts" - Cro-Mags
Rating: 8/10
Welcome to 2025, hope your holidays went well and you didn't wake up too hungover. 2025 is already starting out with some lunacy but is it all too shocking? It seems to get kookier and kookier with each passing year but I think people have always said that. No matter what, I will be here dishing out some A grade songs for your ears. We are starting off the new year on a punk track from the innovative and thrilling Gorilla Biscuits. What they lack in skill of naming their band they make up for 10-fold with a hardcore punk sound that licks the edge of a straight razor. Right for your throat punk music but not so far into the genre that metalheads and others that like hardcore music cannot get behind their sound. This EP is solid and the CD release holds up just as well. Gorilla Biscuits are legends in the hardcore punk world and this EP and their follow up release Start Today show off why they are highly respected, especially Start Today which is a perfect punk album. As is a common theme with punk legends they came, fucked shit up, kissed a baby or two on the head, and then fizzled out. They only released this EP (later turned full album) and their follow up and then said goodbye. There are some bootlegs and a live album but nothing holds up next to their first and only two studio releases. After staying up late watching music videos and drinking sake to celebrate the new year, me and my lady decided to just stay in all day. I cannot stay put to save my life, especially when I am always curious what is over the next hill and I know I have a Tool CD hanging out in the middle console of my truck. After all the stress of the holidays and the running around it was warranted that we just kick our feet up. That and hanging out in bed with the woman I love is one of the greatest things. Few things make you feel more human and at ease than doing that. So I ordered some overpriced DoorDash for some coffee and breakfast sandwiches and got cozy. All morning and most of the day we were listening to some solid punk rock gold, tons of Black Flag, and that is when "Hold Your Ground" came around and I knew it was to be the song of the day. An uplifting and invigorating track that makes your blood pump faster even while just lying in bed. I know that punk isn't for everyone but I am a big fan especially of the hardcore variation from the 1980's. If you dig Black Flag, TSOL, or Minor Threat I think you will really enjoy Gorilla Biscuits. While hitting the legendary status their lack of material makes it so sometimes, they fly under the radar. It took me a little bit of time to find them when I was first getting into punk over 15 years ago. Don't make the same mistake and start today!
Year Released: 1988
EP: Gorilla Biscuits (1988)
Genre: Hardcore Punk
Mood: Invigorating
Perfect For: Raging, Driving fast, Casual listening, Kicking up dust, Working out
Where To Next: "Face the Facts" - Cro-Mags
Rating: 8/10
