Song Of The Week: 12/29/19

Song: "My Way"

Artist: Have Nots

Album: "Serf City USA"

Year: 2008

Place Of Origin: Boston, Massachusetts

Years Active: 2006 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"My Way" appears to be a song about how two friends can go on totally opposite paths in life. The vocalist describes how he and his friend used to get high all the time but, the vocalist kind of found what his passion was, music. He wouldn't let drugs get in the way of him fulfilling his dreams. His friend may have had the same dream at one point in time, but addiction took hold and took him to a dark place. This is like a "man.. what ever happened to that dude?" type of song!

HAVE NOTS DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2008 - Serf City USA (Paper + Plastick Records)
2011 - Proud (Paper + Plastick Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF HAVE NOTS:

The Have Nots, from Boston, Massachusetts, got their start as a band back in 2006. The band basically formed when members of the bands Stray Bullets and Chicago Typewriter decided to band up and record some tunes together. Very early on, the Have Nots were getting the support of local legends The Mighty Mighty BossTones and soon, they hooked up with punk label Paper + Plastick Records to record their debut album, 2008's "Serf City USA". They would follow that album up three years later with their sophomore effort, 2011's "Proud". This album features one of my favorite songs of all time, "Louisville Slugger". That is just a bad ass punk rock song!! Over the years, Have Nots have shared the stage with many legendary punk rock acts, Dropkick Murphys, Anti-Flag, Street Dogs and Swingin' Utters to name a few. Around 2013, guitarist Matt Pruitt joined fellow Boston band Street Dogs. Have Nots last played what really was a reunion show of sorts back in 2015. Lead vocalist Jon Cauztik has been focusing his time more and more on his previous band, Stray Bullets at this time but there was never any announcement that the Have Nots have disbanded so perhaps, they will surface again. The Have Nots are a punk rock band that infuses some elements of ska punk in their sound. They are an awesome band. I wish they were still putting out records but as I said before, Jon Cauztik is still putting out music with the Stray Bullets and Have Nots are really an extension of that band. If you like bands like Stray Bullets, Far From Finished, The Ducky Boys, Blacklist Royals or The Riot Before then you would definitely enjoy the music of Have Nots. Do yourself a favor.. Just check out the video for "Louisville Slugger". Fuckin' sick, sick song!! Great f'n band!!

TEN HAVE NOTS SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Louisville Slugger
2. Poisoned Antidote
3. Proud
4. One In Four
5. Used To Be
6. White Man In Hammersmith Palais (The Clash cover)
7. Dead Man
8. All Or None
9. SBC
10. There's Gonna Be A Riot

Song Of The Week: 12/22/19

Song: "Pen & Paper"

Artist: The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

Album: "Lonely Road"

Year: 2008

Place Of Origin: Middleburg, Florida

Years Active: 2003 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Pen & Paper" appears to be a song about a person, or people, that you thought once were cool, but the more you learn about who they really are, they come off as more and more fake. The vocalist seems like he wants to rid his life of all the fake people that surround him.

THE RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2006 - Don't You Fake It (Virgin Records)
2008 - Lonely Road (Virgin Records)
2011 - Am I The Enemy (Collective Sounds)
2014 - 4 (self-released)
2018 - The Awakening (self-released)

CURRENT STATUS OF THE RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS:

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus formed as a band back in 2003, hailing from Florida. The first couple of years as a band was spent writing songs, recording demos and gaining an audience through relentless touring. Many of those early demos would eventually show up on the band's debut full length album, 2006's "Don't You Fake It". Thanks in large part to the success of their hit single, "Face Down", "Don't You Fake It" would eventually be certified platinum, making it The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus' most successful release. Their follow up, 2008's "Lonely Road", would peak at #14 on the Billboard 200 charts. In 2011, the band released "Am I The Enemy", my personal favorite album by the band. By this point, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus was no longer a major label band. They decided to self-release their fourth album, the aptly titled "4". The band's most recent release, "The Awakening", hit the market in 2018. The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus is your typical pop punk/alternative rock band with hints of emo. The majority of their songs revolve around catchy hooks and melodies. Very radio friendly. Their style of music has never been my personal favorite genre, but I always dug their sound, maybe moreso than many other similar bands. There has been several band members that have come and gone in this band with the one true constant being lead singer Ronnie Winter. The band has also been very active. Along with their five full length releases, the band has also released five EP's, all in a span of twelve years! If you're a fan of bands like Story Of The Year, Hawthorne Heights, Sugarcult, The Used or Silverstein, then you would most likely enjoy the music of The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus.

TEN THE RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Angel In Disguise
2. Face Down
3. Am I The Enemy
4. Your Guardian Angel
5. You Better Pray
6. Pen & Paper
7. The Right Direction
8. The Awakening
9. California
10. On Becoming Willing

Song Of The Week: 12/15/19

Song: "The Nigga Ya Love To Hate"

Artist: Ice Cube

Album: "Amerikkka's Most Wanted"

Year: 1990

Place Of Origin: Los Angeles, California

Years Active: 1986 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"The Nigga Ya Love To Hate" is a continuation of the street knowledge that Ice Cube displayed when he made a name for himself in the infamous rap group N.W.A. It would be the first single for Ice Cube as a solo artist and really the first glimpse of his lyrical skills outside of the N.W.A. shadow. The song and the album proved that Ice Cube was, and still is, one of the premier lyricists and rappers in hip hop history. It ain't about preaching to people. It's about shining a light on the ills of society.

ICE CUBE DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1990 - AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted (Priority Records)
1991 - Death Certificate (Lench Mob/Priority Records)
1992 - The Predator (Lench Mob/Priority Records)
1993 - Lethal Injection (Lench Mob/Priority Records)
1994 - Bootlegs & B-Sides (Priority Records)
1998 - War & Peace Vol. 1 (The War Disc) (Lench Mob/Priority Records)
2000 - War & Peace Vol. 2 (The Peace Disc) (Lench Mob/Priority Records)
2006 - Laugh Now, Cry Later (Lench Mob/EMI Records)
2008 - Raw Footage (Lench Mob/EMI Records)
2010 - I Am The West (Lench Mob/EMI Records)
2018 - Everythang's Corrupt (Lench Mob/Interscope Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF ICE CUBE:

Ice Cube got his start in hip hop back in 1986, originally in a group called C.I.A. The South Central Los Angeles native eventually struck up a friendship with Dr. Dre, who was in the World Class Wreckin' Crew at the time. With the help of local drug dealer Eazy-E, and Eazy's friend from the neighborhood, MC Ren, the guys banded together to form N.W.A. and history was made. If Ice-T put west coast gangsta rap on the map, N.W.A. exploded it into the stratosphere! The band's debut album, "Straight Outta Compton" was, and is, the blueprint for the way gangsta rap should be done. But, all things don't end well. Cube, who wrote not only his lyrics, but at least half of the lyrics for Eazy-E and Dr. Dre, felt he should be compensated more for his efforts in the group. After not being able to come to a contractual agreement with the groups manager, Jerry Heller, Cube decided to part ways and go solo. He enlisted the help of Public Enemy's production team, The Bomb Squad, to help him with his debut solo album. 1990's "AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted" proved that Cube could not only stand on his own, he was well on his way to climbing the mountain of greatest emcee's in the game. Cube came firing out the gates. Four full length albums and an EP in a four year span. "AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted", 1991's "Death Certificate", 1992's "The Predator", 1993's "Lethal Injection" and of course the 1990 EP "Kill At Will". It was during this period that Ice Cube was at his peak in hip hop and could easily be argued as a top four, Mount Rushmore of emcee's. "Death Certificate" featured the fiery N.W.A. diss track "No Vaseline", making Cube a fierce diss emcee. "The Predator" would go double platinum, peak at #1 on the Billboard 200 charts and become Cube's best selling album. "Lethal Injection" saw Cube get into that g-funk style that was super prevalent at the time in L.A. gangsta rap music. Cube's next four albums, 1998's "War & Peace Vol. 1", 2000's "War & Peace Vol. 2", 2006's "Laugh Now, Cry Later" and 2008's "Raw Footage" continued a streak of Ice Cube album's charting #7 or higher on the Billboard 200 charts dating back to "Death Certificate". Cube would drop two more albums in the 2000's, 2010's "I Am The West" and 2018's "Everythang's Corrupt". When hip hop was Cube's main focus, he was a beast. He was dropping albums every year and they were legendary to boot! His music career began taking a back seat to his acting and directing career. Making movies began taking up more and more of his time. He would always eventually get back in the studio but his later albums would just show flashes of his younger self. Songs like "Why We Thugs" and "Everythang's Corrupt" show that there's still that fierce, political rapper inside but the urgency and the in your face aggression of his early 90's material isn't quite there still. That comes with getting older I suppose. Still, Ice Cube has to be respected as one of the greatest artists in hip hop history. He's be on my Mount Rushmore of emcee's for sure. Right now, my Mount Rushmore of rappers would be Cube, Kool G. Rap, KRS-One and Paris. That could change in a week though! If you really want to check out Cube at his best, check out all his work from N.W.A.'s "Straight Outta Comption", right through 1993's "Lethal Injection". Also, check out his work in the west coast super gangsta group Westside Connection which also featured gangsta rap stalwarts WC and Mack 10.

TEN ICE CUBE SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. When Will They Shoot
2. The Nigga Ya Love To Hate
3. No Vaseline
4. My Summer Vacation
5. Once Upon A Time In The Projects
6. Why We Thugs
7. It Was A Good Day
8. Ghetto Bird
9. Endangered Species (Tales From The Darkside) (featuring Chuck D.)
10. Wicked

Song Of The Week: 12/8/19

Song: "Shine"

Artist: Avail

Album: "Reaching Out"

Year: 1990

Place Of Origin: Richmond, Virginia

Years Active: 1987 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

I have no clue!! I can't find the lyrics anywhere on the net for this song and because it's such an early recording on a self-released album, the recording isn't quite clear enough to decipher what the lyrics are. What I do know about the song is that Tim Barry, the long-time Avail vocalist, is actually playing drums as the band's original singer, Brian Stewart, is laying down the vocals.

AVAIL DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1990 - Reaching Out (self-released)
1992 - Satiate (Catheter-Assembly Records)
1994 - Live At The King's Head Inn (Old Glory Records)
1994 - Dixie (Lookout! Records)
1996 - 4AM Friday (Lookout! Records)
1998 - Over The James (Lookout! Records)
1998 - Live At The Bottom Of The Hill In San Francisco (Lookout! Records)
1999 - 6/29/97 (Fireside Bowl - Chicago, IL) (V.M.L. Records)
2000 - One Wrench (Fat Wreck Chords)
2002 - Front Porch Stories (Fat Wreck Chords)

CURRENT STATUS OF AVAIL:

These hardcore legends from Richmond, Virginia formed as a band back in 1987. As I said earlier, Brian Stewart was the band's vocalist for their first self-released album, "Reaching Out". Soon, drummer Tim Barry stepped out from behind the kit to become the band's lead vocalist. By 1992, the classic line-up of Avail with Barry on vocals released what many deem their proper debut album, "Satiate". In 1994, Avail signed a deal with infamous punk rock label, Lookout! Records. If you're a Green Day fan then you know Lookout! from their very early material. Avail dropped three classic album while on Lookout! 1994's "Dixie", 1996's "4AM Friday" and 1998's "Over The James". This was the heyday for Avail as a band, but they were far from done. In 2000, they signed a deal with another epic punk rock label, Fat Wreck Chords. The band dropped two albums on Fat Wreck, 2000's "One Wrench" and 2002's "Front Porch Stories". After the latter release, Avail toured sporadically up until 2007. After 2007, the band was pretty much on an indefinite hiatus. They didn't officially break up, but all of the band members were focusing on other projects, most notably Tim Barry and his solo, Americana/folk career. In 2019, Avail reunited to play some select shows. There has been no news regarding if the band intends to create any new music at this time but it's good to see them playing some live shows. While Avail never became greatly successful as a band, they do have an aura of legendary status in hardcore punk circles. Their hometown of Richmond, Virginia has always championed this band and takes a lot of pride in calling Avail their own. I'm not so much torn on the fact that they are not as present as they were in the 90's and early 2000's. That's because I love Tim Barry's solo material. Of all the punk rock frontmen who have dabbled in the solo/acoustic/folksy type music, in my mind Tim Barry is right at the top of that mountain. His solo albums are excellent. But, for those that want their hardcore fix, you should definitely check out the music of Avail. If you like bands like Propagandhi, American Steel, Hot Water Music, Dillinger Four or Good Riddance, you would most likely enjoy the music of Avail.

TEN AVAIL SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Simple Song
2. Union
3. West Wye
4. Black And Red
5. August
6. Taken
7. Blue Ridge
8. Virus
9. Cross Tie
10. Beliefs Pile

Song Of The Week: 12/1/19

Song: "Eulogies And Epitaphs"

Artist: I Am Ghost

Album: "We Are Always Searching" EP

Year: 2005

Place Of Origin: Long Beach, California

Years Active: 2004 - 2010



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Eulogies And Epitaphs" appears to be a song about a relationship that has soured, at least the vocalist's lover has soured to him moreso than him to her. Of course, with a goth punk vibe, you almost sense the story is being told through a scene from a vampire movie! When you dig a little deeper, it's really just a break up song or better yet, a song about a broken relationship.

I AM GHOST DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2006 - Lovers' Requiem (Epitaph Records)
2008 - Those We Leave Behind (Epitaph Records)
2009 - Live In Orange County (self-released)

CURRENT STATUS OF I AM GHOST:

I Am Ghost formed as a band back in 2004, hailing from Orange County, California. The band's debut EP, "We Are Always Searching", caught the ear of famed punk label Epitaph Records who quickly signed I Am Ghost to a record deal. "We Are Always Searching" would be remastered for a re-release through Epitaph. The band's full length debut album would be 2006's "Lovers' Requiem". I Am Ghost was quickly moving up the ladder of goth/punk bands with this release. Unfortunately, shortly after this album, Kerith Telestai, who played violin and contributed to background vocals, and her husband Brian, who played bass and contributed keyboards and piano for the band, both decided to leave the band for both health reasons and musical conflicts as to the direction of the band. The band tried to soldier on with replacements and in 2008, they released "Those We Leave Behind". This was seen as a more aggressive album but lacking some of the musical depth of their previous release. In 2009, the band self-released the live album, "Live In Orange County". In 2010, lead vocalist Steve Juliano announced that the band had broken up. I Am Ghost is a goth punk band. I think that early on, the dynamic of Juliano's vocals backed by Kerith Telestai's background gave the band something more than the average goth punk outfit. Her violin playing also added to the music's mystique. When the Telestai's departed, there seemed to be something missing with this band. In 2016, the band had a very brief reunion but it wasn't to be. All of the members are focused on other things, some involving music, some not. Most notably, singer Steve Juliano formed the new band Requiem For The Dead, later renamed Requiem. This band is really a continuation of I Am Ghost, even adding a female backing vocalist to their sound. If you like the music of bands like From First To Last, Senses Fail, Aiden, Escape The Fate or Hawthorne Heights then you would most likely enjoy the music of I Am Ghost.

TEN I AM GHOST SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Pretty People Never Lie, Vampire Really Never Die
2. Our Friend Lazarus Sleeps
3. Saddest Story Never Told
4. Civil War And Isolation Thirst
5. Killers Like Candy
6. So, I Guess This Is Goodbye
7. The Ship Of Pills And Needed Things
8. They Always Come Back
9. The Denouncement
10. Smile Of A Jesus Freak

Song Of The Week: 11/24/19

Song: "No Surrender" (Bruce Springsteen cover)

Artist: Bombshell Rocks

Album: "Madhouse" 7" single

Year: 2000

Place Of Origin: Vasteras, Sweden

Years Active: 1995 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"No Surrender" appears to be a song about the impact of rock and roll music and the inspiration it had on some young musicians from Jersey. It recalls the fire these friends had to make music and an "us against the world" mentality. Even though these friends are growing older, that fire still burns inside of them. Of course, this is a Bruce Springsteen cover performed by the Swedish street punk band Bombshell Rocks. The original Springsteen version of the song can be found on his 1984 album "Born In The U.S.A.".

BOMBSHELL ROCKS DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1998 - Street Art Gallery (Sidekicks Records)
2000 - Cityrats & Alleycats (Burning Heart Records)
2002 - From Here And On (Burning Heart Records)
2004 - The Conclusion (Combat Rock Industry)
2014 - Generation Tranquilized (Burning Heart Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF BOMBSHELL ROCKS:

Bombshell Rocks, a street punk band from Sweden, got it's start back in 1995. There first released recording was the 1996 EP, "Who's The Real Bastard". In 1998, the band released their debut full length studio album, "Street Art Gallery". It was at this time that Sweden's biggest punk rock label, Burning Heart Records, took notice of this Rancid-esque band and quickly signed them to a contract. Burning Heart is actually a subsidiary of Epitaph Records. The band's first release with Burning Heart would be 2000's "Cityrats & Alleycats". After their third album, "From Here And On", lead vocalist Marten Cedergran decided to leave the band to focus his time as a tattoo artist. Guitarists Christian Maatta and Richard Andersson decided to take on the vocals on their next album, 2004's "The Conclusion". After eight years of sparse activity, Marten Cedergran rejoined the band as lead singer in 2012. The reunited line-up played their first show in a decade at the Millencolin 20 Year festival. Millencolin, one of Sweden's most famous bands, always seemed to take Bombshell Rocks under their wings. Very early on, Bombshell Rocks opened up for Millencolin and they also played several festivals together. In fact, Millencolin's Mathias Farm produced several Bombshell Rocks albums. 2014 saw the band get back on the grind with the release of their fifth studio effort, "Generation Tranquilized". The band's most recent release was the 2015 7" single, "This Time Around". Bombshell Rocks is often considered the Swedish version of Rancid. This is mostly because of their street punk vibe and their gritty sound. The band never really broke too big in the States. It helped that they were on a subsidiary of Epitaph Records so most people probably learned of them by getting the Punk-o-Rama compilations back in the day. I know that's how I discovered them. Glad I did! They're a pretty damn good punk band! If you dig bands like Rancid, Swingin' Utters, The Briggs, Street Dogs or Get Dead, then you would most likely enjoy the music of Bombshell Rocks.

TEN BOMBSHELL ROCKS SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Bloodbrothers
2. On My Way
3. This Time Around
4. 1.80 Down
5. Without Destination
6. My Own War
7. Tonight I'm Burning
8. Madhouse
9. Ten Years
10. Unstoppable

Song Of The Week: 11/17/19

Song: "Moment Of The Day"

Artist: Thousand Foot Krutch

Album: "Set It Off" (remastered version)

Year: 2004

Place Of Origin: Peterborough, Ontario, Canada

Years Active: 1995 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Moment Of The Day" appears to be a song about not letting things in life bring you down in the present because tomorrow is another day. It's really about striving to be better tomorrow no matter what it bringing you down or holding you back today. This song originally appeared on the self-released Thousand Foot Krutch album "That's What People Do". That album is hard to find for fans so thankfully, TFK put many of those songs on the 2004 remastered version of "Set It Off". "Moment Of The Day" can be found on that remastered album.

THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1998 - That's What People Do (self-released)
2000 - Set It Off (DJD Entertainment Group)
2003 - Phenomenon (Tooth & Nail Records)
2005 - The Art Of Breaking (Tooth & Nail Records)
2007 - The Flame In All Of Us (Tooth & Nail Records)
2009 - Welcome To The Masquerade (Tooth & Nail Records)
2011 - Live At The Masquerade (Tooth & Nail Records)
2012 - The End Is Where We Begin (self-released)
2014 - Oxygen:Inhale (TFKMusic)
2016 - Exhale (TFKMusic)
2017 - Untraveled Roads (The Fuel Music)

CURRENT STATUS OF THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH:

Thousand Foot Krutch was formed as a band back in 1995. This Ontario, Canada project is really the vision of frontman and songwriter Trevor McNevan. Originally, the project was called Oddball, but eventually morphed into Thousand Foot Krutch. In 1998, the band self-released the album "That's What People Do". In 2000, TFK dropped what is for the most part considered their "real" debut album, "Set It Off". It was clear early on that TFK's sound was that of a rock/rap type band. In 2003, however, Thousand Foot Krutch signed a deal with Tooth & Nail records, a deal that would span the better part of eight years together. Their sound also shifted to a more nu-metal sound with their album "Phenomenon". This album sold over 200,000 units making it one of Tooth & Nail's best selling albums to date. 2005 saw the band release "The Art Of Breaking". The hit single "Move" would reach #16 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart. In 2007, TFK dropped "The Flame In All Of Us". By this time, TFK had basically morphed into a full on mainstream rock outfit. 2009 saw the release of "Welcome To The Masquerade". This album would peak at #35 on the Billboard 200 charts thanks in part to the hit single "Fire It Up". The band would release their very first live album in 2011, "Live At The Masquerade". This album would end their long time deal with Tooth & Nail Records. In 2012, the band self-released "The End Is Where We Begin". This album reached #1 in the band's native Canada and peaked at #5 on Itunes. In 2014 and 2016 respectively, the band dropped what could be considered "sister" albums, "Oxygen:Inhale" and "Exhale". The latter peaked at #34 on the Billboard 200 charts. Both of those albums were released on the band's own label TFKMusic. Most recently, TFK released their second live album, "Untraveled Roads" in 2017. Thousand Foot Krutch, thankfully, shed the whole rock/rap thing very early on in their career to become a solid melodic, mainstream rock outfit. The band has ties to being considered a "Christian" rock band as their faith is prominent in some of their songs plus their relationship with Christian punk label Tooth & Nail. Faith is a big part of who they are so of course, it's going to run in some of their songs but by no means, is their music saturated by it. A lot of their songs are anthemic, which is why you often hear some of their music at various sporting events. Some of their songs tend to "fire you up"!! No pun intended! TFK has been putting out music pretty much every other year throughout their career so I would assume they have something perculating on the new music front. If you enjoy bands like Three Days Grace, Breaking Benjamin, 12 Stones, 3 Doors Down or Trapt, then you would most likely enjoy the music of Thousand Foot Krutch. Just move past the early rock/rap thing. That type of music should have just begun and ended with Rage Against The Machine!

TEN THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Fire It Up
2. Move
3. Falls Apart
4. Untraveled Road
5. Shook
6. Phenomenon
7. War Of Change
8. Lifeline
9. Complicate You
10. Puppet

Song Of The Week: 11/10/19

Song: "Mad Hatter"

Artist: Avenged Sevenfold

Album: "Black Reign" EP

Year: 2018

Place Of Origin: Huntington Beach, California

Years Active: 1999 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Mad Hatter" was written by the band Avenged Sevenfold for the video game "Call Of Duty: Black Ops 4". Here's what AV7's vocalist M. Shadows had to say about the song. "Watching the initial trailers (of Call Of Duty: Black Ops 4) and looking at production sketches reminded me of the 'S-Town' podcast and its main protagonist, John B. McLemore, Shadows also comments specifically on the lyrics: "I decided that the lyrics would shadow McLemore's life. The result is a thick-grooved song that's dynamic and has a weightiness to it."

AVENGED SEVENFOLD DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2001 - Sounding The Seventh Trumpet (Good Life Records)
2003 - Waking The Fallen (Hopeless Records)
2005 - City Of Evil (Warner Bros.)
2007 - Avenged Sevenfold (Warner Bros.)
2008 - Live In The LBC & Diamonds In The Rough (Warner Bros.)
2010 - Nightmare (Warner Bros.)
2013 - Hail To The King (Warner Bros.)
2016 - The Stage (Capitol Records)
2017 - Live At The Grammy Museum (Capitol Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF AVENGED SEVENFOLD:

Huntington Beach, California's Avenged Sevenfold formed as a band back in 1999. Originally, the band was very much part of the metalcore scene, releasing a few EP's before signing with Good Life Records for their debut album, 2001's "Sounding The Seventh Trumpet". After their debut, the band inked a deal with Hopeless Records for their second album, "Waking The Fallen". This album had more of a mix of screaming vocals and clean vocals. Vocalist M. Shadows began working with a vocal coach around this time and it was decided that this would be their last album to feature screaming vocals. In 2005, Avenged Sevenfold signed a major label deal with Warner Bros. and released "City Of Evil" in 2005. This album peaked at #30 on the Billboard 200 charts, selling 30,000 copies in the first week of it's release. The single "Bat Country" reached #2 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock charts and by 2009, the album was certified platinum. Yes, Avenged Sevenfold was officially on the musical map! Their next album, "Avenged Sevenfold", would peak at #4 on the Billboard 200 and won the Kerrang! award for Album Of The Year. While the band seemed to be riding the high of success, tragedy stopped them in their tracks as on December 28, 2009, the band's drummer, James "The Rev" Sullivan, was found dead at his home. Undoubtedly a very emotional time for the band. There was even talk of disbanding, but, the guys soldiered on and in 2010 released "Nightmare", the band first #1 album of their career. This album sold 163,000 copies in the first week of it's release! 2013's "Hail To The King" became the band's second straight #1 album on the Billboard 200 charts. There were some conflicts between Avenged Sevenfold and their label Warner Bros. after the release of that album and when all was resolved, Avenged Sevenfold inked a deal with Capitol Records. Their first release with Capitol was 2016's "The Stage". This was the band's first venture in making a concept album. In 2017, the band released it's first ever live acoustic album, "Live At The Grammy Museum" and in 2018, AV7 dropped the EP, "Black Reign". Most recently, Avenged Sevenfold members have said that they are hard at work concentrating on their next full length album which will most likely see the light of day in 2020. Avenged Sevenfold is a hard rock/metal band at it's core, but over the years they have ventured into and out of many genres of rock music. Early on, they were metalcore. Then they shifted to more metal. They have some elements of punk rock and some of their more recent material could even be considered prog rock. Maybe that's why they are equally comfortable playing a metal festival like Ozzfest or a punk festival like Warped Tour. The band has received some crap from people who don't consider them metal enough or punk enough but that doesn't seem to affect the band as they refuse to be pigeonholed into any specific genre. Sticking to their guns has worked fine for them as they are one of the bigger acts in rock music today. If you like the music of bands like Bullet For My Valentine, Atreyu, Stone Sour, Breaking Benjamin or Godsmack, then you would most likely enjoy the music of Avenged Sevenfold. Also, kudos to them for dropping the gutteral vocals by their third album. Maybe I'm just turning into an old fart, but I'm kinda sick of the "cookie monster" bands out there. All the vocalist's tend to sound the same. I'm all for a good scream ala Chris Cornell in Soundgarden or Tim Mcllrath of Rise Against but I much prefer M. Shadows cleaner vocals compared to his screaming from their first album.

TEN AVENGED SEVENFOLD SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Dear God
2. Nightmare
3. Beast And The Harlot
4. Afterlife
5. Unholy Confessions
6. The Stage
7. Bat Country
8. Warmness Of The Soul
9. Hail To The King
10. Almost Easy

Song Of The Week: 11/3/19

Song: "Incomplete"

Artist: Bad Religion

Album: "Stranger Than Fiction"

Year: 1994

Place Of Origin: Los Angeles, California

Years Active: 1980 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Incomplete" is a song that appears to be about not having much self-confidence in one's self. The vocalist lists a bunch of self-deprecating examples as to why he doesn't feel whole as a person. It's gotta be tough going through life feeling like you don't add up or not feeling as though you are complete as a human. This song is the vocalist expressing his frustration with being incomplete.

BAD RELIGION DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1982 - How Could Hell Be Any Worse (Epitaph Records)
1983 - Into The Unknown (Epitaph Records)
1988 - Suffer (Epitaph Records)
1989 - No Control (Epitaph Records)
1990 - Against The Grain (Epitaph Records)
1992 - Generator (Epitaph Records)
1993 - Recipe For Hate (Epitaph Records)
1994 - Stranger Than Fiction (Atlantic Records)
1996 - The Gray Race (Atlantic Records)
1997 - Tested (Epitaph Records)
1998 - No Substance (Atlantic Records)
2000 - The New America (Atlantic Records)
2002 - The Process Of Belief (Epitaph Records)
2004 - The Empire Strikes First (Epitaph Records)
2007 - New Maps Of Hell (Epitaph Records)
2010 - The Dissent Of Man (Epitaph Records)
2010 - 30 Years Live (Epitaph Records)
2013 - True North (Epitaph Records)
2019 - Age Of Unreason (Epitaph Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF BAD RELIGION:

Bad Religion formed as a band back in 1980. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, the band established their roots in hardcore punk. Bandmember Brett Gurewitz had formed a record label called Epitaph which would distribute all of Bad Religion's albums except for a 6 year stretch that they spent on major label Atlantic Records. After the band's debut album, "How Could Hell Be Any Worse", the band had a major hiccup with their follow up, 1983's "Into The Unknown". The band went from hardcore to prog rock! Not a good move. Things were so bad that the band basically dissolved. Luckily for everyone who loves punk rock music, the guys decided to get back together and what came out of that was one of the most important and iconic punk rock albums of all time, 1988's "Suffer". As a musical shift in the landscape was happening up in Seattle, Bad Religon soldiered on with more great albums. "No Control" in '89. "Against The Grain" in '90. Their first album to sell over 100,000 copies. "Generator" in '92. Their first album to have a music video, "Atomic Garden". And, 1993's "Recipe For Hate" which spawned the singles "American Jesus" and "Struck A Nerve" and peaked at #14 on Billboard's Heatseekers chart. Now it's 1994 and there's a full on punk rock revival going on. Bands like Green Day, Offspring and Rancid are selling more records than any punk bands ever have and Bad Religion was right there on that train as well. Like many other bands, Bad Religion signed a deal with a major label, Atlantic Records, and released "Stranger Than Fiction" which would become gold certified. With things getting crazy at Epitaph because of the success of The Offspring and Rancid, Brett Gurewitz decided to depart the band to focus on his record label, leaving lead singer Greg Graffin to handle all of the songwriting duties. To close out the 90's, Bad Religion released "The Gray Race", "No Substance" and "The New America" to complete their deal with Atlantic. The band returned to Epitaph in 2002 for the release of "The Process Of Belief". This also saw the return of Gurewitz and the return of a faster, more aggressive style that harkened back to their early Epitaph days. From 2004 to 2013, Bad Religion released four more great albums. "The Empire Strikes First". "New Maps Of Hell" which reached #35 of the Billboard 200 charts. "The Dissent Of Man" which reached #6 on Billboard's Independent Albums chart. And "True North", which peaked at #18 on the Billboard 200 charts, Bad Religion's only album to hit the top 20! Most recently, Bad Religion's new album, "Age Of Unreason", was released on May 3, 2019. This marks the longest time between releases for the band. What can you say about Bad Religion? This band is iconic. Arguably, the greatest punk rock band of all time. I'd take it even further. They are one of the greatest bands of any genre of rock music. They are that damn good. Their influence spreads all over punk rock circles. Bands like NOFX, Pennywise, Rancid, Offspring, No Use For A Name and Good Riddance all hold Bad Religion in the highest regards. The whole "skate punk" style could easily be traced back to the music of Bad Religion. Lyrically, Bad Religion is not shy about shining a light on government corruption, religious hypocracy or human behavior towards each other. The band has been together for almost 40 years and they are still totally relevant and their voice is still as strong as it's ever been when speaking of the ills of society. Iconic and legendary are the two words that come to my mind right off the bat about Bad Religion but just those two words alone don't do enough justice to what Bad Religion is as a band.

TEN BAD RELIGION SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Generator
2. American Jesus
3. Sorrow
4. The Devil In Stitches
5. Punk Rock Song
6. 21st Century (Digital Boy)
7. Infected
8. Do What You Want
9. Los Angeles Is Burning
10. Fuck You

Song Of The Week: 10/27/19

Song: "Hell Or High Water"

Artist: Smackin' Isaiah (A Wilhelm Scream)

Album: "The Champagne Of Bands" EP

Year: 2001

Place Of Origin: New Bedford, Massachusetts

Years Active: 1999 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Hell Or High Water" appears to be a song about a broken relationship, and a broken man because of that relationship. You can tell that he still yearns for her to be with him. He remembers her touch and her scent. It almost feels like maybe he lost her tragically. When he says he's never gonna let her down. Perhaps she's passed and he's going to do right by her even after she's gone.

A WILHELM SCREAM DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2000 - The Way To A Girl's Heart Is Through Her Boyfriend's Stomach (Tank Records) (as Smackin' Isaiah)
2001 - Benefits Of Thinking Out Loud (Jump Start Records) (as Smackin' Isaiah)
2004 - Mute Print (Nitro Records)
2005 - Ruiner (Nitro Records)
2007 - Career Suicide (Nitro Records)
2013 - Partycrasher (No Idea Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF A WILHELM SCREAM:

A Wilhelm Scream has it's roots dating back to 1993. The guys in this band hail from New Bedford, Massachusetts. After going through line-up changes and name changes, in 1997, they settled on the moniker Smackin' Isaiah. After releasing some self-released cassettes and some EP's, the band put out their debut full length album in 2000, "A Way To A Girl's Heart Is Through Her Boyfriend's Stomach". The band's next recording became much more serious and you can feel the band rounding into form with 2001's "Benefits Of Thinking Out Loud". At this point, the band became A Wilhelm Scream. "Benefits Of Thinking Out Loud" was re-issued under their new name in 2004. Also in 2004, A Wilhelm Scream released "Mute Print". This would mark the beginning of a three album deal with Nitro Records. 2005 saw the release of "Ruiner". For me personally, this is where A Wilhelm Scream really sucked me in as a big fan. The song "The King Is Dead" is just a fierce punk rock song! Next up for the band would be 2007's "Career Suicide". This is probably the band's fastest and most aggressive release in their catalogue. This album would be re-issued in 2017 with a slew of b-sides and demo recordings. The band's most recent full length studio album would be 2013's "Partycrasher". Yet another gem of an album! Supposedly, the boys in A Wilhelm Scream have been in the studio since early 2019 working on a new album. A Wilhelm Scream is fast, technical and hardcore punk at it's roots. Plus, they're Mass-holes like me!! That gotta count for something!! My first experience with this band was the 2005 album "Ruiner" and i've been hooked ever since. If you like your punk fast and your guitar playing technical then A Wilhelm Scream is a band for you. Their sound is similar to artists like No Trigger, Propagandhi, Strike Anywhere, Bigwig and Strung Out. This band is killer, or "pissah"! Like I said we're fellow Mass-holes! Can't wait for their new album to come out, hopefully soon.

TEN A WILHELM SCREAM SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. The King Is Dead
2. The Soft Cell
3. The Horse
4. Boat Builders
5. Bulletproof Tiger
6. We Built This City (On Debts And Booze)
7. Famous Friends And Fashion Drunks
8. Rip
9. Number One
10. Skid Rock

Song Of The Week: 10/20/19

Song: "Eyes Like A Target"

Artist: Hidden In Plain View

Album: "Operation: Cut-Throat"

Year: 2002

Place Of Origin: Morristown, New Jersey

Years Active: 2000 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Eyes Like A Target" is yet another song about a relationship on the outs. It has a sick and twisted feel to it however. Though the vocalist is saying his girl is free to leave, it appears he's going to make that departure as difficult as possible. You can definitely feel his anger for her after the heartbreak and sorrow that she's put him through. He wants her to feel what he is feeling because of her actions.

HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2004 - Life In Dreaming (Drive-Thru Records)
2007 - Resolution (Drive-Thru Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW:

New Jersey's own Hidden In Plain View got their start as a band back in 2000. By the time the band was ready to cut their second EP, they hooked up with Drive-Thru Records, the label which they pretty much stuck with up until 2007. In 2004, the band was ready to drop their debut full length album, "Life In Dreaming". This album featured what is probably the band's most famous song, "Bleed For You". The band followed up that album in 2007 with their sophomore effort, "Resolution". While the band had some promise, the members decided to call it quits in 2007 and focus on other ventures. In 2013, Hidden In Plain View got back together to play a one off live show in Philadelphia. 2015 saw the band embark on a tour to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of their debut album "Life In Dreaming". Hidden In Plain View also dropped a brand new EP that year entitled "Animal". Hidden In Plain View's style is that of a melodic, alternative rock/pop punk type band. They're a pretty good band. They don't really stand out from all the bands of a similar ilk, but they have some memorable songs. Its been a few years since they had a new release, but the band is still touring. Most recently they performed at The Warped Tour. If you enjoy listening to bands like The Starting Line, Halifax, Spitalfield, Matchbook Romance or So They Say, then you'd most likely enjoy Hidden In Plain View's music. As I've said on some other posts, some bands lead the way while others follow. I'd put Hidden In Plain View in the "follower" crowd. They're a good band and I like their music, but they just don't stand apart from their contemporaries.

TEN HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Bleed For You
2. Bendy
3. Hunting The Hunter
4. Like An Ocean
5. Twenty Below
6. Ashes Ashes
7. Garden Statement
8. No Way Out
9. Mr. Jones (Counting Crows cover)
10. Self Inflicted

Song Of The Week: 10/13/19

Song: "Green To Me" (Hum cover)

Artist: Funeral For A Friend

Album: "Songs Of Farewell And Departure - A Tribute To Hum"

Year: 2011

Place Of Origin: Bridgend, Wales, United Kingdom

Years Active: 2001 - 2016



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Green To Me" appears to be a song about waking up in a hospital, most likely after some tragic accident. You get the sense that the vocalist is lying in his hospital bed with all these wires attached to him. He notices that his girl has awakened and seems ok. The songs lyrics almost describe the scene through medically induced eyes, which, would be more than likely if you were recovering from some sort of accident. This song is a cover by Funeral For A Friend. The original song is performed by the band Hum and can be found on their 1998 album "Downward Is Heavenward".

FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2003 - Casually Dressed & Deep In Conversation (Atlantic Records)
2005 - Hours (Atlantic Records)
2006 - Final Hours At Hammersmith (Atlantic Records)
2007 - Tales Don't Tell Themselves (Atlantic Records)
2008 - Memory And Humanity (Victory Records)
2011 - Welcome To Armageddon (Distiller Records)
2013 - Conduit (Distiller Records)
2015 - Chapter And Verse (Distiller Records)
2015 - Hours/Live At Islington Academy (End Hit Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND:

Funeral For A Friend formed as a band back in 2001. This United Kingdom outfit put out their debut EP in 2002 called "Between Order And Model". After winning a Kerrang! Award for "Best UK Newcomer", Funeral For A Friend quickly signed a major label deal with Atlantic Records. In 2003, the band dropped their debut full length album, "Casually Dressed & Deep In Conversation". This album was certified gold and had three top 20 singles in the UK, "Juneau", "She Drove Me To Daytime Television" and "Escape Artists Never Die". When the band dropped their next album, 2005's "Hours", their sound departed from being a post-hardcore, almost screamo type of band to a more melodic sound. This album was recorded in Seattle at two studios owned by the band Pearl Jam. This is my personal favorite album by Funeral For A Friend. 2007 saw the release of "Tales Don't Tell Themselves". This album debuted at #3 on UK album charts. In 2008, the band wanted to get back to that heavier, hardcore style and display a more technical sound. They achieved this with the album "Memory And Humanity". This album also marked the end of their time on Atlantic Records as Victory Records would distribute this album. 2011 saw the band release "Welcome Home Armageddon". 2013's "Conduit" would peak at #34 on the UK album charts and in 2015, the band released their last full length studio effort, "Chapter And Verse". In 2015, Funeral For A Friend also released a live album, "Hour/Live At Islington Academy" which features the band playing their 2005 album "Hours" in it's entirety. In 2016, FFAF embarked on their "Last Chance To Dance" tour which culminated on May 21st. This was the band's last goodbye... well, almost. While the band had no plans to reunite for new music or play live, they decided in 2019 to perform three concerts at the end of October with all the proceeds going to a friend of theirs who is terminally ill. Perhaps these shows will rekindle that spark and light that fire under the guys to reunite permanently? One can only hope. Funeral For A Friend is a really good band. They've went through some stylistic changes but for the most part they incorporate post-hardcore, screamo, melodic rock and punk elements throughout their catalogue. "Hours" was the album that first drew me to this band. I think it's a great album, one of my favorites no doubt. I'm kind of growing out of the "screaming" vocals thing but Funeral For A Friend doesn't overkill with them. They strike a great balance between clean and screaming vocals which suits me fine. If you like bands like Finch, Silverstein, Senses Fail, A Static Lullaby or From First To Last, then you would most likely enjoy Funeral For A Friend. Fingers crossed that these three benefit shows for their friend re-ignites that passion in them to get back together and create new music. This band is too damn good to be no more!

TEN FUNERAL FOR A FRIEND SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. History
2. Into Oblivion (Reunion)
3. Streetcar
4. Kicking And Screaming
5. Roses For The Dead
6. Juneau
7. Best Friends And Hospital Beds
8. Front Row Seats To The End Of The World
9. 1%
10. Walk Away

Song Of The Week: 10/6/19

Song: "Ball Of Confusion" (Temptations cover)

Artist: Bouncing Souls

Album: "Ugly Bill" EP

Year: 1991

Place Of Origin: New Brunswick, New Jersey

Years Active: 1989 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Ball Of Confusion" was originally performed by The Temptations. This was one of the many psychedelic soul records that Norman Whitfield wrote and produced for the Temptations between the late '60 and early '70s. The song tries to make sense of the chaos and disorder pervading the times. Lyrically, the song attacked the Vietnam War, Nixon's government, and drug addiction, making it one of the few protest records that came from Motown. The version of the song I chose for my song of the week is a cover version by The Bouncing Souls. The original Temptations version can be found on their 1970 album, "Greatest Hits II".

BOUNCING SOULS DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1994 - The Good, The Bad, And The Argyle (Chunksaah Records)
1995 - Maniacal Laughter (Chunksaah Records)
1997 - The Bouncing Souls (Epitaph Records)
1999 - Hopeless Romantic (Epitaph Records)
2000 - The Bad, The Worse, And The Out Of Print (Chunksaah Records)
2001 - How I Spent My Summer Vacation (Epitaph Records)
2003 - Anchors Aweigh (Epitaph Records)
2005 - Live (Chunksaah Records)
2006 - The Gold Record (Epitaph Records)
2009 - Ghosts On The Boardwalk (Chunksaah Records)
2011 - Live At Generation Records, NYC: April 18, 2009 - Generation Records
2012 - Comet (Rise Records)
2016 - Simplicity (Rise Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF THE BOUNCING SOULS:

The Bouncing Souls formed as a band back in 1989. They forged their start in the college town of New Brunswick, New Jersey. The bands first full length release was 1994's "The Good, The Bad, And The Argyle" which was basically a compilation of the band's EP's that they had released in their early years as a band. 1995's "Maniacal Laughter" was the band's first album of all orignally recorded material. This album caught the ear of the guys at Epitaph Records who went on to sign The Bouncing Souls to their label. Their first release with Epitaph, "The Bouncing Souls", wasn't a particularly great album. Lead singer Greg Attonito has said that it's basically an album of unfinished songs. In 1999, however, The Souls began to find themselves as a band. "Hopeless Romantic" showed that this was a band that had a lot of promise on the punk scene. After releasing a b-side and rarities compilation in 2000, The Bouncing Souls continued their rise in the punk rock world with 2001's "How I Spent My Summer Vacation" leading to what I think was the band's pinnacle, 2003's "Anchors Aweigh". By now, The Bouncing Souls had produced many punk rock anthems, or "Manthem"'s if you will, but "Anchors Aweigh" featured two punk anthems that to this day are two of my favorite songs, "Kids And Heroes" and "Sing Along Forever". In 2005, the band released their very first live album then followed that up with 2006's "The Gold Record". This album features a sweet cover of Avoid One Thing's "Lean On Sheena". As 2009 approached, The Bouncing Souls celebrated their 20th anniversary by releasing a series of digital singles. Twelve of these singles were packaged into an album called "Ghosts On The Boardwalk". In 2012, The Bouncing Souls signed a deal with Rise Records to release "Comet". 2016 saw the band release their most recent full length album, "Simplicity". The Bouncing Souls continually show that they are still going strong as they released a brand new EP in 2019 called "Crucial Moments". The Bouncing Souls are a hugely respected and influential band in punk rock. They're known to have brought back the "pogo" style pits at their shows, thanks to their energetic and anthemic songs. As their star rose, they always were quick to lend a hand to up and coming bands, especially in their native New Jersey. In my mind, "Kids And Heroes" is just one of the best punk songs ever! I love the shit out of that song!! Some of The Bouncing Souls punk rock contemporaries are bands like Face To Face, The Lawrence Arms, Lagwagon, Off With Their Heads and No Use For A Name. If you're a fan of melodic punk or skate punk like any of those bands, then you would most likely enjoy the music of The Bouncing Souls. Iconic band with an iconic following.

TEN BOUNCING SOULS SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Kids And Heroes
2. True Believers
3. Lean On Sheena (Avoid One Thing cover)
4. Sing Along Forever
5. Manthem
6. Gone
7. Ghosts On The Boardwalk
8. Coin Toss Girl
9. The Pizza Song
10. Crucial Moments

Song Of The Week: 9/29/19

Song: "Liquid Swords"

Artist: GZA

Album: "Liquid Swords"

Year: 1995

Place Of Origin: Brooklyn, New York

Years Active: 1990 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

In GZA's own words, here's what "Liquid Swords" is about, ""I'm on a different level, trying to be cinematic," he remarked. "Like that shit in 'Killah Hill' where the kid gets his leg cut to hide the dope – that shit really happened, but I'm trying to make it more visual. Liquid Swords is a concept of being lyrically sharp, flowing like liquid metal – mercury, y'know? It comes from this flick, Legend of the Liquid Sword, where people would get their head cut off but it would still be on their shoulders. No one else would notice, because the sword was so sharp. Wu-Tang is a sword style, and this here is the sharpest. I'd rather slip on the pavement than slip on my tongue."

GZA DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1991 - Words From The Genius (Cold Chillin'/Reprise/Warner Bros. Records)
1995 - Liquid Swords (Geffen/MCA Records)
1999 - Beneath The Surface (MCA Records)
2002 - Legend Of The Liquid Sword (MCA/Universal Records)
2005 - Grandmasters (Angeles Records)
2008 - Pro Tools (Babygrande Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF THE GZA:

The GZA, aka The Genius, got his start in hip hop back in 1990. His first solo release was 1991's "Words From The Genius". GZA wasn't overly happy with this album which didn't really get any push from his label, Cold Chillin' Records, at the time. GZA also performed with the RZA and Ol' Dirty Bastard around this time in a group called F.O.I., which later became known as All In Together. This was really the beginnings of what would become the Wu-Tang Clan. In 1992, the RZA put together his supergroup, and most members consider GZA the spiritual head of the group. The Wu-Tang Clan exploded on the hip hop scene in the early 90's with their mega album, "Enter The 36 Chambers". It was inevitable that with 10 members in the Clan, that solo albums would be on the horizon. GZA came out with "Liquid Swords" in 1995, the third solo release by Wu-Tang members following Method Man and Ol' Dirty Bastard. "Liquid Swords" peaked at #9 on the Billboard 200 charts and became an instant hip hop classic. The album would eventually be certified platinum. This album is arguably the best solo release by any Clan member, though Raekwon's "Only Built For Cuban Linx" is up there as well. In 1999, GZA released "Beneath The Surface". This was his second album to peak at #9 on the Billboard 200 and it went on to be certified gold. In 2002, GZA wanted to get back to that grimey style of "Liquid Swords" when he released "Legends Of The Liquid Sword". In 2005, GZA hooked up with Cypress Hill DJ, Muggs, for the album "Grandmasters", proving that a New York emcee can flow over California beats. In 2008, GZA released his last solo album to date, "Pro Tools". This album featured the song "Paper Plate" which is a scathing diss track of 50 Cent. Most recently, GZA has been working on his long awaited return to hip hop with the album "Dark Matter". The lyrical themes of this album surround space, the universe and physics, the term "dropping science" applies well here. Let's face it, the Wu-Tang Clan changed the game of hip hop. They are one of the greatest rap groups of all time and all ten members shine, whether on solo material or when they get back together for Wu material. GZA's lyrics always prompted thought. Science and metaphysics are essential in his lyrics but he's not afraid to bring it back to the street if someone wants to be foolish and challenge him lyrically. The 90's were a time when no one could touch the Wu-Tang Clan. They were at the top of the hip hop world. "Liquid Swords" is arguably a top 5 hip hop album of all time. The Clan couldn't have said it any better, they form like Voltron and GZA's the head!! He may be the oldest member of the Wu, but GZA is a beast!!

TEN GZA SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Liquid Swords
2. Shadowboxin'
3. 4th Chamber
4. Paper Plate
5. I Gotcha Back
6. Cold World
7. Pencil
8. Lables
9. Legend Of The Liquid Sword
10. Breaker, Breaker

Song Of The Week: 9/22/19

Song: "Blackout"

Artist: The Falcon

Album: "Unicornography"

Year: 2006

Place Of Origin: Chicago, Illinois

Years Active: 2004 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Blackout" reminds me of getting all liquored up at a bar and getting lost in the music. This has happened to me on more than a thousand occasions!! The vocalist proceeds to go home, blasting the radio as he goes. Perhaps, he's starting to sober up because the songs he thought we're great, are actually radio rubbish! This is why I always listen to cd's or my Ipod. My music doesn't suck like the shit on the radio!!

THE FALCON DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2006 - Unicornography (Red Scare Industries)
2016 - Gather Up The Chaps (Red Scare Industries)

CURRENT STATUS OF THE FALCON:

The Falcon is a punk rock supergroup that formed back in 2004. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, the band consists of Brendan Kelly (guitar/vocals) and Neil Hennessy (drums) from The Lawrence Arms, Dan Andriano (bass) of Alkaline Trio and Todd Mohney (guitar) of Rise Against. The band's first release was an EP, "God Don't Make No Trash-or-Up Your Ass With Broken Glass" in 2004. When it came time to record a full length album in 2006, Mohney couldn't make it to recording sessions so the band completed "Unicornography" as a three-piece. This album featured the band's very first music video for the song "The La-Z-Boy 500". Due to the band members other commitments, The Falcon wouldn't get back together for a new album for 10 years. In 2016, the guys did make time to go in the studio with a new guitarist in tow, Dave Hause of The Loved Ones. The band released their follow-up to "Unicornography" with "Gather Up The Chaps". The Falcon is a nice little side project. Anytime you can mix The Lawrence Arms with Alkaline Trio and The Loved Ones, you're bound to have a sweet band. I think Dave Hause is a great addition to an already great band. This is just a straight up punk band, served to you Chicago style! If you like the music of bands like The Lawrence Arms, Banner Pilot, The Loved Ones, Dead To Me or None More Black, then you would most likely enjoy the music of The Falcon. All the guys in this band put more of their focus on their main projects, The Lawrence Arms, Alkaline Trio and their solo ventures but it's a treat when they get back together for new music and tours.

TEN THE FALCON SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. The La-Z-Boy 500
2. Blackout
3. Hasselhoff Cheeseburger
4. Sergio's Here
5. Black Teeth
6. Unicorn Odyssey
7. When I Give The Signal, Run!
8. Huffing The Proverbial Line Off The Proverbial Dong or The Blood And The Frog
9. Sailor's Grave
10. We Are The Bald

Song Of The Week: 9/15/19

Song: "Hearts Of Stone"

Artist: Chuck Ragan

Album: "Feast Or Famine"

Year: 2007

Place Of Origin: Gainesville, Florida

Years Active: 1993 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Hearts Of Stone" appears to be a song about someone who has turned cold to those around them and really, the world in general. Almost a lost soul to be sure. The vocalist seems like he wants to encourage this person to find some kind of purpose to breathe new life into them before it's too late and the person goes from isolation to death. Would suck to die alone.

CHUCK RAGAN DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2007 - Feast Or Famine (SideOneDummy Records)
2007 - Los Feliz (SideOneDummy Records)
2008 - Bristle Ridge (w/ Austin Lucas) (Ten Four Records)
2009 - Gold Country (SideOneDummy Records)
2011 - Covering Ground (SideOneDummy Records)
2014 - Till Midnight (SideOneDummy Records)
2014 - Live At Skaters Palace (Uncle M Records)
2016 - The Flame In The Flood (Ten Four Records)
2016 - The Winter Hall Live (w/ The Camaraderie) (Ten Four Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF CHUCK RAGAN:

Chuck Ragan got his start in the music world back in 1993. Of course, he is most known for being a vocalist/guitarist for the Gainesville, Florida punk band Hot Water Music. That band has gone on to release eight studio albums, three compilations, a couple live albums and have been part of a slew of split singles and EP's. Around 1998, Chuck Ragan and fellow Hot Water Music bandmate Chris Wollard formed an acoustic side project called Rumbleseat. While this project was short-lived, The wheels were in motion for Ragan to pursue an acoustic solo career. There were rumors of a rift between Ragan and his Hot Water Music bandmates around the time of him working on his solo project. The other members of Hot Water Music actually formed a new band called The Draft. Those rumors quieted down when Ragan and Hot Water Music remained together to record new music and tour, which still is true to the current day. But, back to Ragan's solo career. His debut album was released in 2007, called "Feast Or Famine" In 2008, he collaborated with Austin Lucas for the album "Bristle Ridge". It was the very same year when Ragan put together his very first "Revival Tour". This tour was a vision Ragan had for like-minded artists to showcase their talents, both with solo performances as well as collaborations with all of the artists on the tour. These tours which went on till 2012, featured such artists as Ragan, Laura Jane Grace (Against Me!), Brian Fallon (The Gaslight Anthem), Tim Barry (Avail), Dave Hause (The Loved Ones) and Dan Andriano (Alkaline Trio) to name a few. In 2009, Ragan released "Gold Country" and in 2011, the album "Covering Ground" dropped. All of these releases featured basically Ragan with his acoustic guitar and a harmonica. For his 2014 release, "Till Midnight", Ragan set out to have a full band sound while maintaining that folksy, bluesy feel. In 2016, Ragan wrote the music and songs for the soundtrack of a video game called "The Flame In The Flood". 2016 also saw Ragan release a live album with that very same band that helped record "Till Midnight". That album was called "The Winter Hall Live" and that band had their own name now, The Camaraderie. Chuck Ragan's a beast, plain and simple. He's great in Hot Water Music, but I don't know if you fully grasp the power of his vocals until you've heard his solo stuff. This dude's voice is insane!! Think if Springsteen went all folk/punk. Ragan is a really good songwriter as well. I'd say that he's at the forefront of the whole punk rock lead singers going acoustic phase. If you like the music of Tim Barry, Brian Fallon, Dave Hause, Tony Sly or Dan Andriano In The Emergency Room, then no doubt, you'd like Chuck Ragan. He's still out there doing solo shows but a lot of his focus lately has shifted back to Hot Water Music, which definitely is a bad thing either!

TEN CHUCK RAGAN SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Meet You In The Middle
2. Symmetry
3. For Broken Ears
4. Something May Catch Fire
5. Nomad By Fate
6. Cover Me Gently
7. The Flame In The Flood
8. Hearts Of Stone
9. Bedroll Lullaby
10. Let It Rain

Song Of The Week: 9/8/19

Song: "The Boys Republic" (acoustic version)

Artist: Deftones

Album: "Music In High Places: Live In Hawaii" DVD

Year: 2002

Place Of Origin: Sacramento, California

Years Active: 1988 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"The Boys Republic" appears to be a song about armageddon or hoping for armageddon. The vocalist hopes for a blue star to shine down on Earth. A blue star is one of the hottest stars in the universe and if one got close enough to Earth, everyone and everything would burn. Not only is the vocalist sick of all those around him, he would happily accept his own deadly fate if those people were extinguished from the world as well. The original version of "The Boys Republic" can be found on the Limited Edition version of the Deftones 2000 album "White Pony". I chose an acoustic performance of the song which can be found on the band's 2002 DVD, "Music In High Places: Live In Hawaii".

DEFTONES DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1995 - Adrenaline (Maverick Records)
1997 - Around The Fur (Maverick Records)
2000 - White Pony (Maverick Records)
2003 - Deftones (Maverick Records)
2005 - B-Sides & Rarities (Maverick Records)
2006 - Saturday Night Wrist (Maverick Records)
2010 - Diamond Eyes (Reprise Records)
2011 - Covers (Reprise Records)
2012 - Koi No Yokan (Reprise Records)
2016 - Gore (Reprise Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF DEFTONES:

The Deftones formed as a band as far back as 1988 when all the guys were in high school. After years of making demos, playing shows locally and working hard to get their name out there, they were finally rewarded and signed to Maverick Records. In 1995, the band released it's debut album, "Adrenaline". This album was basically recorded live in the studio. It definitely set the tone right out of the gate that the Deftones were a band that meant business. This album achieved platinum status by 2008. The follow up album, "Around The Fur", started to see a band that was more comfortable and experimental in the studio. This album peaked at #29 on the Billboard 200 charts, thanks in part to the hit singles "My Own Summer" and "Be Quiet And Drive", and would also achieve platinum status. 2000 saw the band drop it's most successful album, the also certified platinum "White Pony". This album debuted at #3 on the Billboard 200 charts, selling over 1.3 million units in the U.S. alone. The band also won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance for the song "Elite". Success continued for the Deftones with album number four, "Deftones". Debuting at #2 on the Billboard 200, this album would also spend nine weeks in Billboard's Top 100. Though the 2006 album, "Saturday Night Wrist", would debut at #10 on the Billboard 200, record sales would eventually fall well below the band's previous albums. This could be due to the changing atmosphere in which music was getting out to the masses. More and more people were getting their music through free streams or other avenues over the internet so record sales in general began diminishing at this point for most bands, including the Deftones. Tensions were also creeping to the surface between band members at this time because of personal issues and musical directions. The band was, however, working on an album slated to be called "Eros" but in 2008, bassist Chi Cheng got into a serious car accident which basically left him in a minimally conscious state. The band had to push forward with new bassist, Sergio Vega, due to Cheng's condition. At this point, the band left Maverick and joined the Reprise label. Not a far leap as both Maverick and Reprise are subsidiaries of Warner Bros. 2010 saw the release of "Diamond Eyes", featuring the singles "Rocket Skates" and "Diamond Eyes", the latter doing well on rock radio. In 2012, the band released their seventh full length studio album, "Koi No Yokan". Some four months after the release of that album, Chi Cheng passed away from cardiac arrest. Vocalist Chino Moreno has stated that the never released album "Eros", the last album Cheng played on with the Deftones, will most definitely see the light at some point in the future. On the one year anniversary of Cheng's passing, Deftones released the song "Smile" which was recorded during the "Eros" sessions. The band's most recent release was 2016's "Gore" which featured the singles "Prayers/Triangles" and "Phantom Bride", the latter of which features a guitar solo from Jerry Cantrell of Alice In Chains. Word is that the band is currently working on new music which could see the light of day in 2019. Deftones can be labeled many things. Some call them nu-metal. Some call them post-grunge or post-hardcore. Some even call them art rock or experimental rock. They have often been called "the Radiohead of metal" because of their experimental nature when it comes to their music. I know this, there were a lot of bands that tried carrying the torch from the Seattle grunge bands in the mid to late 90's and most of them failed and were really nothing more than watered down carbon copies of those Seattle bands. The Deftones were not one of those carbon copies. This band could stand on their own and had no problem standing side by side along the likes of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. For some reason, popular rock music started being won over by bands like Korn and Limp Bizkit and I always thought to myself, are these people stupid?!! Are they not listening to the Deftones?!! The Deftones should have been one of those bands that carried that rock torch into the 2000's and steamrolled. Don't get me wrong, they were successful, especially those first four albums, but they never seemed to get the credit I always believed they should have as one of the best rock bands on the planet. That being said, if you dig bands like Taproot, A Perfect Circle, Chevelle, Drowning Pool or Alice In Chains, then you would most likely enjoy the Deftones. Sick band!!

TEN DEFTONES SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Digital Bath
2. Minerva
3. 7 Words
4. Tempest
5. Diamond Eyes
6. Change (In The House Of Flies)
7. My Own Summer (Shove It)
8. Prayers/Triagles
9. Hole In The Earth
10. No Ordinary Love (Sade cover)

Song Of The Week: 9/1/19

Song: "No More"

Artist: Eddie Vedder

Album: "Into The Wild"

Year: 2007

Place Of Origin: Evanston, Illinois

Years Active: 1987 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"No More" was inspired by a 26 year old Army veteran Tomas Young. Young was shot and paralyzed from the waist down after serving in Iraq for less than a week. He is the subject of a documentary called "Body Of War". Eddie Vedder struck up a friendship with Young and was inspired by Young's own words about the war to write this anti-war protest song.

EDDIE VEDDER DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2007 - Into The Wild (J Records)
2011 - Ukulele Songs (Monkey Wrench Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF EDDIE VEDDER:

Eddie Vedder got his start in the music world back in 1987. While he was born just outside of Chicago, it was in 1987 when he was living in San Diego, California that he started to get involved in bands. Some of the bands he was in were Surf And Destroy, The Butts and Indian Style, which also featured drummer Brad Wilk of Rage Against The Machine and Audioslave fame. In 1988, Vedder joined Bad Radio, which had an alternative rock/funk vibe like Red Hot Chili Peppers. In 1990, Vedder was given a demo tape by Jack Irons, drummer of the Chili Peppers at the time. The music was from a Seattle band with members of Mother Love Bone who disbanded when their frontman Andy Wood died of a drug overdose. Eddie wrote lyrics to the songs on the demo, songs that would become "Alive", "Once" and "Footsteps". The band was blown away, flew him up to Seattle and Mookie Blaylock was formed. Around the same time, Soundgarden frontman Chris Cornell had some tribute songs written for his fallen friend Andy Wood and decided to record them with Stone Gossard, Jeff Ament, Mike McCready and Matt Cameron. This project would be called Temple Of The Dog and Eddie Vedder would record his very first vocal track on record for the song "Hunger Strike". Fast forward. Mookie Blaylock changes their name to Pearl Jam. In 1991, the album "Ten" is released. The Seattle sound officially takes over the music world! Eddie Vedder along with Chris Cornell, Kurt Cobain of Nirvana and Layne Staley of Alice In Chains, become the voices of that generation, whether they wanted to or not. Pearl Jam has released ten full length studio albums from 1991 to the present day as well as a shitload of live bootlegs that you can order through their website. Eddie Vedder is easily one of the best vocalists in rock music of all time. In 2007, Eddie Vedder wrote music for the soundtrack of the film "Into The Wild". This would be his first venture as a solo artist. It would also lead to his first solo tours in support of this album. The song "Guaranteed" from this album would win a Golden Globe award. In 2011, Vedder released his second full length solo album, "Ukulele Songs". As you can guess, the album features Eddie and his trusty ukulele. Vedder also released a DVD in 2011 called "Water On The Road" which is basically a live solo show and other features. Eddie Vedder still often does solo tours. Pearl Jam haven't put out a studio album since 2013, long over-fuckin'-do boys! But, they have gotten together to do tours, most recently a stadium tour which featured live shows in Seattle's Kingdome, Chicago's Wrigley Field and Boston's Fenway Park. Vedder has gotten much better at his guitar playing and that has shown in his solo material as well as his guitar work in Pearl Jam. Eddie has also contributed songs to several soundtracks over the years. What more can I say about this dude?! Pearl Jam is my all time favorite band and Vedder is an incredible vocalist, unbelievable songwriter and one of the best frontmen in rock history! Whether he is going full blaze stadium rock with Pearl Jam, or getting Dylan-esqe folksy on his solo material, Vedder shines through with his lyrics and songwriting ability. He was influenced by many greats, The Who, The Ramones, The Clash, Neil Young, Neil Finn, Bruce Springsteen, U2, and R.E.M. to name a few, and he has inspired many a young band to pick up their guitars and go all out, balls out rockin' in the free world... Ok I'll slow down. NOW MAKE A NEW FUCKIN' PEARL JAM ALBUM IS ALL!!

TEN EDDIE VEDDER SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Against The 70's (w/ Mike Watt and Dave Grohl)
2. Guaranteed
3. My City Of Ruins (Bruce Springsteen cover)
4. Hard Sun (Indio cover)
5. The Waiting (w/ Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)
6. Ship Song (Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds cover)
7. Trouble (Cat Stevens cover)
8. Constellations (w/ Jack Johnson)
9. Man Of The Hour
10. Society

Song Of The Week: 8/25/19

Song: "Surface To Air"

Artist: Incubus

Album: "If Not Now, When?" (pre-order bonus track)

Year: 2011

Place Of Origin: Calabasas, California

Years Active: 1991 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Surface To Air" appears to be a song about feeling isolated in the world. Maybe, the vocalist is isolated in his own mind. The feeling of being alone and perhaps, misunderstood is deeply affecting him as he calls out for anyone to recognize his existence. His calls seem to fall on deaf ears leaving him to feel as though he's floating alone in space.

INCUBUS DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1995 - Fungus Amongus (Stopuglynailfungus Music)
1997 - S.C.I.E.N.C.E. (Epic/Immortal Records)
1999 - Make Yourself (Epic/Immortal Records)
2001 - Morning View (Epic/Immortal Records)
2004 - A Crow Left Of The Murder (Epic/Immortal Records)
2006 - Light Grenades (Epic/Immortal Records)
2011 - If Not Now, When? (Epic/Immortal Records)
2012 - HQ Live (Sony Music Entertainment)
2017 - 8 (Island Records)

CURRENT STATUS OF INCUBUS:

Incubus formed as a band back in 1991, when the members where all still in high school. The band hustled to perform live, a mainstay on Los Angeles' Sunset Strip. In 1995, Incubus dropped their debut full length album, "Fungus Amongus". At this point, Incubus played a trip/rock/hip hop/rock style. In 1997, Incubus signed a long deal with Epic Records and their first release under that label would be "S.C.I.E.N.C.E.". This album saw the band jump into a nu-metal sort of sound while keeping some of it's hip hop influences. 1999 was the breakthrough. "Make Yourself" was released. This album showed a band that began to lean to a more alternative rock/mainstream rock sound. The single "Pardon Me" got the ball rolling, but it was the song "Drive" that catapulted Incubus to success. "Drive" remained at #3 on the charts for 6 straight weeks and reached #1 on the alternative rock charts. "Make Yourself" went double platinum when it was all said and done. 2001's "Morning View" continued success for the band. Hit singles "Wish You Were Here" and "Nice To Know You" helped this album peak at #2 on the Billboard 200 charts. At one point in 2002, Incubus had four singles charting in the top 100 at the same time. In 2004, the band dropped "A Crow Left Of The Murder". This is arguably the band's most aggressive album. "Light Grenades" was released in 2006, debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200 charts thanks in part to the hit singles "Anna Molly" and "Dig". Incubus took a bit of a break after this album, all the members focusing on other projects. A greatest hits compilation was released in 2009 called "Monuments and Melodies". In 2011, Incubus got back together and released what is probably their softest or least aggressive album, "If Not Now, When?". This would be their last album for Epic Records. In 2015, the band released an EP called "Trust Fall (Side A)". There was supposed to be another EP released soon after this but it never came to fruition. In 2017, the band, now signed with Island Records, released "8". Most recently, Incubus released the single "Into The Summer" in August of 2019. Once Incubus decided to ditch the nu-metal/hip hop rock vibe back in 1999, this band fully blossomed into a headline act. The band churned out super melodic and catchy singles. They have a relaxed vibe about their music but can get aggressive when they have to. I always thought their sound was quite unique. Just a cool vibe with their songs. If you like bands like Hoobastank, Foo Fighters, A Perfect Circle, Fuel or Silverchair, then you would most likely enjoy Incubus. Incubus has a little more groove to their music than those bands, but those acts are definitely peers. Incubus is a very solid band and have been going strong for almost two decades. The band has sold more than 19 million records world wide, making them one of the most successful rock acts of the 2000's.

TEN INCUBUS SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Wish You Were Here
2. Drive
3. Megalomaniac
4. Nice To Know You
5. Pardon Me
6. Dig
7. Adolescents
8. A Certain Shade Of Green
9. Make A Move
10. Nimble Bastard

Song Of The Week: 8/18/19

Song: "Out To Sea"

Artist: Smile Empty Soul

Album: "Vultures"

Years: 2006

Place Of Origin: Santa Clarita, California

Years Active: 1998 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Out To Sea" appears to be a song about being in a deep depression. The vocalist feels like he's drowning in sorrow and pain. He's struggling to find hope and struggling to find any good reason in just being alive. Everything around him just seems to bring him down. Depression is a common theme in Smile Empty Soul's music.

SMILE EMPTY SOUL DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

2003 - Smile Empty Soul (Lava Records)
2005 - Anxiety (EMI Records)
2006 - Vultures (Bieler Bros. Records)
2009 - Consciousness (EMI Records)
2012 - 3's (eOne Records)
2013 - Chemicals (Pavement Entertainment Records)
2017 - Rarities (MRAfia Records)
2018 - Oblivion (Smile Empty Music)

CURRENT STATUS OF SMILE EMPTY SOUL:

Smile Empty Soul formed as a band back in 1998, hailing from Santa Clarita, California. The band tried to make a name for themselves playing shows down on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles and eventually signed with label Lava Records for their debut album. The self-titled "Smile Empty Soul" turned out to be the band's most successful album, becoming certified gold thanks in part to the hit singles "Bottom Of A Bottle", "Nowhere Kids" and "Silhouettes". The band had written and recorded their follow up album "Anxiety" which was set to be released in 2005, but after departing Lava Records, that album wouldn't see the light of day until 2009. Their 2006 album, "Vultures", turned out to be their default sophomore album because of this dispute with their old label. In 2009, Smile Empty Soul signed with major label EMI who released the "Anxiety" album as well as "Consciousness". In 2012, the band moved to eOne Records and released the album "3's". It was at this time that frontman Sean Danielsen also began to release solo material. Danielsen is pretty much the engine of Smile Empty Soul, writing all the lyrics and music so essentially, Smile Empty Soul is pretty much a solo project with accompanying musicians. In 2013, the band dropped the album "Chemicals". They followed that up in 2017 with a b-sides compilation called "Rarities" and in 2018, their last proper full length studio album was released titled "Oblivion". The band's most recent release was an acoustic EP in 2019 called "The Acoustic Sessions Vol. 1". Smile Empty Soul is a post-grunge/alternative rock type of band. Their music is very dark and Sean Danielsen's lyrics deal with pain, sorrow, loss and depression. Their songs are very heavy, musically and emotionally. Ever since their first album, Smile Empty Soul has gathered a hardcore fanbase and while they never became super successful, to this very day, their loyal fanbase follows the band all over the world. This is a really good band. Very underrated. If you like bands like The Exies, Trapt, Fuel, Seether or Trust Company, you would most likely enjoy the music of Smile Empty Soul. Just keep in mind, Smile Empty Soul's lyrics are much darker than all of those bands.

TEN SMILE EMPTY SOUL SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. This Is War
2. Silhouettes
3. The Hit
4. Bottom Of A Bottle
5. We're Through
6. Don't Need You
7. Afterlife
8. False Alarm
9. Sides
10. All In My Head

Song Of The Week: 8/11/19

Song: "Parting Glass"

Artist: American Steel

Album: "Rogue's March"

Year: 1999

Place Of Origin: Oakland, California

Years Active: 1995 - present



WHAT I THINK THE SONG IS ABOUT:

"Parting Glass" appears to be a song about having one last night on the town with you're significant other. It seems this relationship is over when the two wake up in the morning. They tried unsuccessfully to make it work but time has only caused them to drift further apart. So, they fill up those glasses one more time and drink up to the end of their relationship.

AMERICAN STEEL DISCOGRAPHY (Full length albums only):

1998 - American Steel (New Disorder Records)
1999 - Rogue's March (Lookout! Records)
2001 - Jagged Thoughts (Lookout! Records)
2007 - Destroy Their Future (Fat Wreck Chords)
2009 - Dear Friends And Gentle Hearts (Fat Wreck Chords)

CURRENT STATUS OF AMERICAN STEEL:

American Steel formed as a band back in 1995, a product of the now infamous Bay Area punk scene. While Operation Ivy had dissolved, but Rancid rose from those ashes and Green Day was well on their way to huge success, American Steel followed their path to try to create a spot of their own in their hometown of Oakland, California. After non-stop touring, the band signed a deal with New Disorder Records to release their debut full length album, "American Steel". As they got a little more buzz, legendary Bay Area label, Lookout! Records signed the band for their next two releases. In 1999, the band delivered "Rogue's March". This album turned out to be a moderate underground success for American Steel. They continued to be an underground favorite with their 2001 release, "Jagged Thoughts". In 2002, for whatever reason, the guys in American Steel decided to change their sound and their name. They called themselves Communique, which turned out to be a short-lived project. By 2007, they reverted back to American Steel and signed on with legendary punk label, Fat Wreck Chords. Their first album with Fat Wreck was "Destroy Their Future". This to me is the band's highlight album. Fat Wreck does tend to bring out the best in punk rock artists. The band's last full length studio album would be 2009's "Dear Friends And Gentle Hearts". It took ten years before American Steel would release anything after that album. Their most recent release was a 2-song 7" single called "State Of Grace". American Steel sort of has a little hardcore in them, but they tend to keep it more melodic. They definitely got that "gravelly" vocals vibe in their songs. While the first wave of Bay Area punk bands like Rancid and Green Day sparked a punk rock revival, American Steel always lurked in the underground, never coming anywhere remotely close to the success of those two bands. There's nothing distinctly special about American Steel. They're a good punk band. Not great by any stretch. They have a few songs that stick out, nothing major. If you like the music of bands like Dead To Me, Banner Pilot, The Lawrence Arms, Dillinger Four or None More Black then you might like American Steel. Not bad. Not great. Just somewhere in the middle.

TEN AMERICAN STEEL SONGS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT:

1. Mean Streak
2. Maria
3. State Of Grace
4. Sons Of Avarice
5. Emergency House Party
6. Schrapnel
7. Every New Morning
8. Your Ass Ain't Laughing Now
9. Got A Backbeat
10. Rotting