Kory' Recs: "Are those supposed to be WORDS?"

By: Kory Kasler, Promotions Director

My family, not being into metal like I am, is constantly asking me things like: “What is he saying?” or “Are those supposed to be words?” when I am listening to something from the metal portion of my music library.

For this post, I’ve made a list of some of my favorite metal artists for any metal-loving Rock Lobsters who know that, yes, they are words.

1. Skeletonwitch



Being from Athens, I have been around Skeletonwitch for a long time. While I wasn’t around in 2004 when they came together, they became my favorite band after I purchased Beyond the Permafrost from the Haffa's Records metal section.

Their music is unique in that it doesn’t fit neatly into a certain genre; as, they combine elements of thrash, black metal, death metal, and other genres to put together some of the best blackened thrash music out there.

2. Toxic Holocaust



Toxic Holocaust is probably my favorite purely thrash band. There really isn’t much to say about them except that if you’re looking for some fast and intense thrash metal, then Toxic Holocaust is for you.

3. Horde



Say what you want about religious metal music, but it’s hard to deny that when it comes down to music alone, Horde is one of the best black metal bands out there in my opinion. Being around during the early part of the rise of black metal, they have the classic black metal sound: fast blast beat drumming, harsh, shrieked vocals, and foreboding chord progressions.

4. False




It’s always nice to see a band with a good female vocalist, and False is one of the best. If you’re looking for good, modern black metal, False is a great choice. Once again, great guitar, fast drums, and solid vocals.

5. Hilariously Disgusting Album/Song Titles



There are endless band, song, and album titles that are so disgusting and so ridiculous that you can’t help but laugh at them. The music is less-than-stellar, to say the least, but it’s fun to cruise YouTube looking for funny/disgusting song titles like Gutrot’s “Gorging on Menstrual Chunks” or Spermswamp’s “Fermented Anal Nectar.” Come on, you know it made you laugh (or throw up.)

Kevin's Recs: Pirate Metal, Catchy Choruses and Other Delights

By: Kevin Rutherford, Editorial Director

1. "Newlands" - Justice

Justice - Newlands by FranklinP

It's tough to choose a favorite track off what might be the best electronic record of 2011, but this song is certainly a candidate. "Newlands" not only showcases Justice's growing predilection toward guitars, but also lets us know that they've become quite good at the instrument, too. Cap it off with an earworm of a chorus, and you have a song that will be played at dance parties well into the new year.

2. "Untitled" - Pearl and the Beard



These always-the-object-of-my-affection Brooklynites have a new song. Don't miss if you're a fan of cello, glasses, stupendous beards, or purely spectacular vocal performances. While the trio consists of three of the funniest individuals I've ever had the pleasure of interviewing, it also consists of three of the most passionate musicians I've met.

See them live.

Immediately.

3. "The Soft Voices Die" - Apparat



Talk about your unfair first impressions. When I first heard a few songs from German musician Apparat's new record The Devil's Walk, I was unmoved. I revisited the album for the purpose of reviewing it and was floored. The way Apparat can weave strings, piano, synths and his somber voice together into a patchwork of atmospheric songs is breathtaking. One of the best records of 2011.

4. "Get it Daddy" - Sleeper Agent



Say hello to the newest female-fronted indie rock darlings. Apparently, they don't like pinatas.

5. "Die" - Girls



Some were turned off by this cut from Girls' mesmerizing new record, Father, Son, Holy Ghost. I, on the other hand, dig it immensely. Sure, it's a step to the side of most of the band's other material, which would normally be something to criticize. But when your riffs are this delicious, it's hard to complain.

6. "Michael Jackson" - Das Racist



"I'm fucking great at rapppppiiiing!"

It doesn't matter how much you may think you hate this song right now. The refrain of "Michael Jackson! One million dollars!" will be stuck in your head for hours.

You feel me?

7. "Island in the Sun" - Weezer



RIP, Mikey Welsh.

8. "It's So Cold in the D" - T-Baby



The pride of Detroit.

9. "Homeward, These Shoes" - Iron & Wine



Sometimes you listen to a song and think, "This is way too long." Sometimes you think the exact opposite.

"Homeward, These Shoes" exemplifies the latter.

10. "Captain Morgan's Revenge" - Alestorm



What's that? You weren't aware 'pirate metal' existed? Prepare to be enlightened.

Joe's Recs: 5 Classic Songs to Piss Off Your Hip Roommate

By: Joe Amlung, Programming Director

It’s a Friday night, your roommate is forcing you to listen to that same mix consisting of Tyler the Creator and Dubsteb (something about the beats' being good.) You just happen to be on your third Vanilla Coke, so you have some sugar-induced confidence going, and you’ve heard enough from “some band you’ve probably never heard of."

So, it’s time to take action: It’s time to take over the playlist, and--as an added bonus--annoy the hell out of your roommate.

Here are 5 classic songs that are sure to drive them crazy.

1. "Purple Rain" - Prince



By itself, this song seems harmless. I mean, come on, everyone loves Prince’s sexy reverb-drenched voice. The key here is to play it every time the word “purple,” is said in conversation. Trust me, it comes up more than you’d think. They’ll be in tears by the time they hear that epic guitar solo for the third time.


2. "More than a Feeling" - Boston



No explanation needed here. Just make sure you play air guitar.


3. "Feliz Navidad" – Jose Feliciano



Bonus point’s if it isn’t the holiday season.


4. "When I Come Around" - Green Day



The kicker here is they’ll have to pretend they hate it. No self-respecting music “aficionado” will ever admit they enjoy a song by Green Day. It’ll drive them crazy trying to hide the smile from their face.


5. "Hotel California" – The Eagles



The dude said it best, “I hate the ******* Eagles, man!” Also, you’ll need to pretend you’re The Jesus (also from the Big Lebowski). The Jesus is introduced earlier in the movie with a cover of Hotel California in the background. Granted, that cover is better than the original, but your roommate won’t be happy that you’re not respecting “The Dude."

Billy's Recs: It's just like, my opinion, man...

By: Billy Bracken, Sales Director

1. "Kangding Qingge" - Abigail Washburn and the Sparrow Quartet

Abigail Washburn and the Sparrow Quartet combine a unique blend of old time bluegrass with trational Chinese influences. While it may sound like a disaster in theory, the results are actually great.



2. "Around the World in a Tea Daze" - Shpongle

According to Raja Ram, the word “Shpongle” is a feeling of ultimate positive and euphoric emotions. I can’t help but fall into the Shpongletron Experience everytime I see their shows. Shpongle is a completely new sound that seems to incorporate aspects of a cornicopia of musical styles.



3. Why? - Good Friday

I’m a big fan of hip-hop. Yet I get tired of hearing the same recycled themes regurgitated constantly by most rappers. Why? is an experimental hip-hop group unlike anything I’ve heard before. Plus, the lead rapper has a bad ass mustache.



4. "Wonderlust King" - Gogol Bordello

Gogol Bordello is one of the few bands that fall under the classification of gypsy punk. I can’t think of a better description for their frantic and theatrical shows.



5. "Florida Rain" - Matt Bauer

I downloaded Matt Bauer’s EP a few years ago through looking at artists similar to Gillian Welch, and was instantly impressed with his songwriting. His darker lyrics and sparse use of instrumentals create a truly haunting Appalachian folk sound.



6. Gommorrah

Gommorrah is set in modern day southern Italy, and provides a brutal glimpse into the Comorra syndicate. The Comorra have existed since the 18th century, and have a huge influence over the region. Five unique stories come together through the involvement of the Comorra. It’s hard to believe the incredible amounts of corruption that take place daily in this region of Italy.

Kory's Recs: Discovery Is Wonderful

By: Kory Kasler, Promotions Director

While I struggled to think of a fun theme for my first Exec Recs blog, I ended up failing miserably and decided to share a few artists and bands I discovered over the past year that I believe are worth passing along to the dedicated Rock Lobsters reading my ramblings. So, here are the first five that came to mind:

1. The Holy Mess



I feel like a lot of pop-punk bands these days have developed a consistently slightly boring sound, which saddens me as a pop-punk fan. These guys give me hope. They've got a knack for writing catchy songs and making their way into any playlist I try to put together.

2. Teen Daze



I'll be the first one to admit it....I'm a sucker for chill wave and synth pop. I came across Teen Daze this summer, and his ability to put together really solid synth pop tracks really impressed me. He is also well-versed when it comes to surf-pop and can make you feel like you're surrounded by sand and sunshine.

3. Dog Shredder



I am also a big fan of metal and hardcore, and after I stumbled across their Bandcamp page, I was hooked. I typically get bored when I listen to 10 minute long songs, but these guys have the ability to keep my attention for the entirety of their long tracks without making me shut off my iTunes.

4. Wax Phantom



This band's name alone should tell you they are rad....but in case you have never seen Scooby Doo, these guys are another solid pop-punk band I came across over the summer. I like their simple and catchy pop-punk, as well as the Scooby Doo samples throughout their album. My apologies for being unable to find a good live video for them.

5. Daytrader



I am also a fan of good emo/math rock stuff (i.e. the kind that isn't produced by teenagers wearing their sisters' jeans). Daytrader is just a good band who stuck with the early math rock sound. I make it a point to share them with my fellow emo/math rock fans.

Melissa's Recs: A Summer of New Music

By: Melissa Burant, Public Relations Director

I was really excited to write “Exec Recs” this week because I have an entire summer of new music to share. Here’s what I can’t get enough of:

1. Vacation - Bomb the Music Industry!

Bomb the Music Industry! - Hurricane Waves by melirnvxlrse

"Bomb the Music Industry! is one of my absolute favorite bands and this past summer they released their 7th full-length album Vacation. I can already say with certainty that this album will be my favorite album of 2011. The album is a step in a new direction for BTMI! with more mature lyrics, a plethora of guest appearances and a sound heavily influenced by the Beach Boys. The album still has that classic BTMI! feel though—it’s still loud, fast and synth-infused punk. I can’t help but get chills hearing interlude track “Sponge Board/Baby Waves” and the final refrain of the album on “Felt Just Like Vacation.” “The Shit That You Hate” is another great track, and while I have a really hard time choosing a favorite, “Hurricane Waves” probably comes the closest and is the song I chose to share here. Oh yeah, you can also download this album for free!

2. “Constant Headache” - Joyce Manor

Joyce Manor - Constant Headache by melirnvxlrse

I heard about Joyce Manor at the beginning summer and they quickly became a staple in my rotation. Unfortunately, being from California, they don’t come out east too often, which is too bad for me because I would love to see them live. Their full-length, self-titled album is a super solid punk album, from which the above track “Constant Headache” is taken. Joyce Manor also just signed to Asian Man—one of my favorite labels! You can download the track “Constant Headache” for free from Topshelf Records’ 2011 label sampler.

3. “Emily, You Were Right” - Emily and the Complexes



This summer while Tyler and I were in New York City, Tyler was walking around in Times Square playing songs, when the creator of the fashion/music website, Blind Specs, approached him and asked him to make a video. Above is the result for his classic song “Emily, You’re Right,” which was filmed in one take on the streets of SoHo in NYC. Emily and the Complexes will be playing in Athens at The Fern Gully this Friday, September 23rd!

4. “Little James” - The Sidekicks

The Sidekicks - Little James by melirnvxlrse

This summer, The Sidekicks, another favorite of mine, put out a 7” split with Scranton, Pennsylvania band Tigers Jaw. The split features an original track and a cover track from each band. Above is a new track from The Sidekicks called “Little James.” The original track from Tigers Jaw, “Jimmy Piersall,” is equally as good! You can stream the whole split.

5. “Lake Erie Back Float” - Delay

Delay - Lake Erie Back Float by melirnvxlrse

Delay is a great pop-punk band from Columbus, Ohio. Their track “Lake Erie Back Float” comes from their 2009 album Plain Language. The track is a bit sporadic, but they make it work wonderfully and it’s catchy as hell! You can download the track from the Shout Out Loud Prints Mixtape for free here.

6. 13 Chambers - Wugazi

01 Sleep Rules Everything Around Me by WUGAZI

Wugazi was a project that came out at the beginning of the summer from Cecil Otter and Swiss Andy. Like the name suggests, Wugazi’s 13 Chambers is a mash-up of Fugazi and Wu-Tang Clan and, it’s pretty great. Above is “Sleep Rules Everything Around Me”—the track comes Fugazi’s “Sleep” and Wu Tang’s “C.R.E.A.M.” Another one of my favorites is “Nowhere to Wait.” The entire album can be downloaded for free.

Kevin's Recs: In Which Kevin Talks About Internet Memes, Film Scores and Woody Guthrie Covers

By: Kevin Rutherford, Editorial Director

1. "Low Tide" - O'Death

O'Death - Low Tide from Kemado Records on Vimeo.

I saw a YouTube comment for one of O'Death's songs recently that stated that the Brooklyn alt-country act sounded almost like a "Mumford & Sons parody." While that isn't an entirely true description, it does say a lot about the seat-of-your-pants bluegrass rock the band puts forth. "Low Tide" is the best example of that; a breakneck hell-raiser with twangy vocals and backwoods fiddle. Plus, after watching the video, you can see how underground they are! Get it? GET IT?

2. "Sleep, Child" - Nick Jaina



Nick Jaina, a singer-songwriter/occasional writer from Portland, visited Columbus last October when he opened for Decemberists side project Black Prairie on their Burn Down the Organ tour. Jaina's penchant for melody and folk sensibilities struck me immediately when I saw him live, and an appreciation for his smart lyrics soon followed. Last year's A Bird in the Opera House is one of my favorite records from 2010, and "Sleep, Child" is one of its best. Feel free to look up "Theresa," "Another Kay Song" or "I Don't Believe You" if you find the sounds of Jaina and his band appealing. Frankly, I'll be surprised if you don't.

3. "This Train is Bound for Glory" (Woody Guthrie cover) - Mumford & Sons, Old Crow Medicine Show, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros



British folk megastars Mumford & Sons announced the Railroad Revival tour a few months ago, bringing along with them Old Crow Medicine Show and Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros.

Badass aspect of the tour 1: the bands traveled from tour stop to tour stop in a vintage railroad train.

Badass aspect 2: this cover of Woody Guthrie's classic song, which ended each show. Nearly every instrument gets a turn at the forefront, as does each vocalist. Plus, Alex Ebert goes sort of nuts onstage. As would be expected.

4. "Nothing But the Water" - Grace Potter and the Nocturnals



I can dig the newer material put out by Vermont's Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, but give me this performance of "Nothing But the Water" at 2006's Boston Music Awards, and I'm completely satisfied. Potter sings the tune nearly a cappella for the first three minutes, with a tambourine as the only complement to her soulful vocals. After about three minutes, the music takes a turn, as The Nocturnals enter in and turn the song into a full-fledged jam.

Try not to enjoy it. I dare you.

5. "Avast Your Ass" - Kitsune^2



I spend way too much time on the Internet, one of my favorite things in the world being Internet memes (as long as they're not overused [they usually are]). "Avast Your Ass" is itself a meme, though it was not originally intended to be. The song ended up being remixed numerous times as YouTube users took other videos and messed with the pitches of different voices to create, essentially, a "cover" of the original.

That has been done with everything from the Nostalgia Critic's Chester A. Bum character to the My Little Pony character Fluttershy. Chances are the song/meme wouldn't be so popular if it weren't so damn catchy.

6. "Waiting for My Real Life to Begin" - Colin Hay



I could never come up with the right words to explain how much this song--my favorite song ever--means to me, so I'll let the music do the talking.

7. "Musical Chairs" - Fair to Midland



My middle and high school years were spent listening predominantly to hard rock music, and occasionally I'll find a band which causes me to regress into old habits.

Fair to Midland, a Texas five-piece that was originally the first band signed to Serj Tankian's Serjical Strike label, has been a favorite since their 2007 record Fables from a Mayfly: What I Tell You Three Times is True. 2011 marks, at long last, the release of Fair to Midland's fourth effort, Arrows & Anchors, with the first single being this heavy-hitting tune. The demo for "Musical Chairs" was released over a year ago, and the finished product made a song that I didn't think could be improved upon that much better.

8. "Money is Such a Beautiful Word" - Tom and Jerry: The Movie



"We've got to have... moneeeey."

See how many sexual inflections you can find in Lickboot's vocals! Mainly at 1:22. So many lolz, all of the time.

9. "Folsom Prison Blues" - Paul McDonald



Yes, I watch American Idol. Yes, sometimes I'm ashamed of it. But this past season featured a contestant who was about as indie as the show may ever get--Paul McDonald, of the Bonnaroo-playing The Grand Magnolias. McDonald was so out-of-place it hurt sometimes, but the Bradley Cooper lookalike hit his stride with the Johnny Cash cover of "Folsom Prison Blues," which slayed that evening's competition. It's not the most inventive thing ever, but when you do it on a show such as Idol, it's very much miles away from the hundredth cover of Aretha Franklin's "Respect."

10. "Forbidden Friendship" - John Powell (How to Train Your Dragon)



I've always been a huge fan of movie scores, and though Hans Zimmer's epic soundtrack to Inception and Trent Reznor's lauded The Social Network score did wonders, it was John Powell's How to Train Your Dragon that floored me. I'm sorry--Reznor's my dawg, but the fact that this score did not win in its category at the 2011 Academy Awards is pure blasphemy, and I'll be sore about it for years to come.

Dan's Recs: Off the Chain

1. Shining Force 2

In remembrance of the '90s and playing SEGA Genesis, I decided to bust out my old SEGA and play some classics. My hands down favorite is Shining Force 2, which is one of the first real good RPGs of its time.

Shining Force has a pretty typical storyline: An ancient devil is released and kidnaps the princess of your city. So you assemble your team of knights, mages, and whatnot to rescue her. You travel a continent and have countless battles, which actually involve some thinking and strategy on your part.

Overall, it is just pretty awesome.

2. Growing a Mustache

There was once a time when the mustache was thought of as stylish and classy, but those days are long gone. Now, the mustache has bears a stigma. A man with a mustache these days is considered a sleezeball, and gets looked down upon.

I have a dream, that one day the mustache will return to prominence and lose the bad reputation. So grow one, everybody is doing it.

3. River Monsters: Unhooked

I know many people were big Steve Irwin (R.I.P.) fans like I was, and I don't think anything will ever be like the Crocodile Hunter, but River Monsters: Unhooked comes as close as it gets.

Jeremy Wade is a British marine biologist with an affinity for huge, man-eating freshwater fish. He travels all over the planet looking for the monsters and catches them. He has an episode dedicated to a fish in New Guinea that eats men's genital. It doesn't get much better than that. Not mention, he does sweet commentary.

4. Lobsterfest

Yup, I even used Exec Recs as a shameless ploy to promote Lobsterfest. There is going to be a ton of good bands, and cool dudes such as myself there. Not to mention, it is all free except for the Dave Rave. So take a break from studying and stressing out to enjoy some awesome music. It's going to be off the chain.

5. Bowling

One of my favorite sports. It doesn't take much. You don't need to be athletic, it's usually not super competitive, and you can just chill with your friends and drink some brews. You can't really ask for much than that.

--Dan Lesiczka, Music Director

Tate's Recs: "CHILL OUTTTT"

As the quarter's end draws near and so does finals week, the stress level of everyone inevitably goes up. So, I have put together a quick little list of some tunes to CHILL OUTTTT to when your head is nearing combustion from intense study. Some are old, some are new. Some wiggle, and some don't. But if you need a chill pill, pop on one of these tracks and you are sure to mellow out.

1. "Summer Dreams" - Skream



This is one of Skream's more mellow tracks and is sure to make you feel like summer is in full swing.

2. "Archangel" - Burial



Absolute CLASSIC. A little on the darker side, but still pretty chill.

3. "Plastic World ft. Fats & TC" - Pendulum



More upbeat and faster tempo, sure to speed you up, yet calm you down.


4. "Snoopy's Search" - Billy Cobham



Get funky and fresh with this slowwww dowwwwnn tune from Billy Cobham.

5. "Kaleid-Bass" - Boxcutter



This one's been on repeat in my head for a while now. Very cool tune, wide open.

--Tate Galbraith, Production Director

Aaron's Recs - Good News For People With Bad Taste

1. ACRN Presents The Body with Bridesmaid, Vit and Nyodene D



In celebration of four years of my dumb poopy radio show Kill Ugly Radio, ACRN is bringing through Providence, Rhode Island, sludge metal outfit The Body, whose latest album All The Waters Of The Earth Shall Turn To Blood made its mark on the metal community for the incredibly lush sound brought forth by just two members. The Body's music is sick, noisy sludge rock blended with elements of shoegaze and hardcore and strung together by a bevy of samples and imagery recalling the heyday of '90s doomsday cult obsession.

Opening the show is Bridesmaid, who bring forth an instrumental dueling-bass guitar blend of doom metal; Vit, whose blend of post rock, black metal and funeral doom has been lighting up the blogosphere; and Nyodene D, who sucks and is a big turd.

The show is at The Union Bar and Grill (18 W. Union) on Wednesday, May 18th and starts at 10 p.m.. It costs $5


2. The Goodbye Goats CD Release Party with Prosanctus Inferi and more at The Union on Friday, May 20th

Think Gwar mashed up with King Diamond and you've got the Goodbye Goats. Over-the-top stage antics meets over-the-top black metal. Tons of costumes, nudity, luchadores, pudding and more.

Columbus grim-as-shit, raw black metal act Prosanctus Inferi is also playing, which is EXTREMELY RARE. The Revulvas are playing too. Think EyeHateGod mixed with Bratmobile. Oh and Boxcare Burlesque will be showing off their tits. Show costs $3.


3. Forward Ohio Fest at The Union - Saturday, May 21st - 3 p.m.

Last show recommendation, but this one deserves it too. From the ashes of For Real Fest rises Forward Ohio, a new DIY fest that features everything you loved about the old FRF gatherings (including most of the same bands and Hardcore scene teddybear Ray Houska.)

Show starts at 3 p.m. on Saturday and costs $10. Tons of bands are playing including Masakari, Instinct Of Survival, Black Dove, In Defence and many more. Come get hit.


4. Archer on FX



FX's animated spy comedy Archer is streaming its first season on Netflix. Now in it's second season, this show is James Bond-meets-arrested development in it's humor, dialogue and plot, and uses the voice talent of heavyweights such as H. Jon Benjamin, Aisha Tyler, Chris Parnell and--almost reprising her role as Lucille Bluth--Jessica Walter.

5. Getting a cut on the inside corner of your lips that re-opens every time you open your mouth.

It's narcotic.

--Aaron Vilk, Promo Director

Branka's Recs: A Quick Look at the Punk and Metal Scene of Former Yugoslavia

1. Slovenia -- Slovenija


'Ti (Dežuje 7" EP, 1986)' - Tožibabe

Yugoslavia, a long dismantled country spread across a region the size of the state of Oregon, was home to a broad spectrum of cultures and corresponding countercultures, including very active punk and metal scenes. Slovenia, the most western (both geographically and culturally) of all the former Yugoslav republics, was home to a burgeoning scene that benefited strongly from nearby influences.

Amongst the most striking of its bands was the all-female band Tožibabe who brought a strikingly dark and nearly goth rock atmosphere to their brand of hardcore. They were included on the essential compilation Hardcore Ljubljana which demonstrated a number of bands from the Slovenian capital.

2. Croatia -- Hrvatska


'Povedi me (Sudbina, 1987)' - Crna Udovica

There's no doubt the degree of influence seminal bands like Judas Priest had on metal in general and this influence is certainly heard in many heavy metal bands from former Yugoslavia, including the hard-rockin' Crna Udovica from the coastal Croatian city Dubrovnik.

I have always felt that the southern Slavic languages aren't very well suited to this style of metal singing, which involves sustained notes, but in this case the vocalist does an exemplary job of flawless metal yowling on top of headbang-inducing riffs.

3. Bosnia and Herzegovina -- Bosna i Hercegovina


'Speed metal manijak (Bez Milosti, 1991)' - Bombarder

Ja živim svoj život, za sve ostalo nije me briga
Ne vjerujem u Satanu, ne vjerujem u Boga
Moja ljubav je buka i brzina
U mojim venama teče krv metalna
U mom tjelu je snaga nebeska
JA POSTAJEM — SPIIIID METALLLL MANIJAAAAK!!!!

I live my life, I don't care for anything else
I don't believe in Satan, nor in God
My love is noise and speed
In my veins flows blood of metal
In my body is power from heaven
I am becoming -- SPEEEED METALLLL MANIAAAAC!!

In the late '80s and early '90s, the Motörhead-inspired thrashy speed metal scene had spread to former Yugoslavia and the Big Three of this style were indisputably Evil Blood (from Croatia), Heller (from Serbia), and Bombarder (from Bosnia). My personal favorite of the three are the Bosnian speed metal maniacs Bombarder from Sarajevo. Their crowning appeal, on top of metal-devoted lyrics, is for maintaining an enduring feeling of urgency and chaos in the riffs, making you expect everything to fly off the rails and collapse entirely at any moment.

4. Montenegro -- Crna Gora


'Rotten Town (Street, Rotten, Thrash Derby, 2008)' - KK Street Bangers

As it turns out, the '90s were a dark decade for the region as a whole and left the punk and metal scenes especially crippled, with many members either dying during the conflicts, getting caught up in extreme nationalism, or otherwise dropping off the radar.

Fortunately, thrash metal is still alive in the region, as evidenced by Montenegrin thrashers KK Street Bangers from Podgorica. Their style reminds me immediately of East Coast thrash legends Overkill and I’m very pleased to see a post-millenial band from the region largely side-stepping the current fad of retreading turf American Bay Area bands have long since ground into dust.

5. Serbia -- Srbija


'Terorizam protiv dosade (Došao je kraj 7”, 1984)' - 2 Minuta Mržnje

I have often lamented the fact that I experienced the gr-80s for only a few months of my life and have no remembrance of them. These lamentations have intensified over the years as research and investigation into punk from former Yugoslav helped me discover that there was a flourishing punk scene in my hometown Novi Sad that was the subject of a documentary called Bilo jednom and a book called Novosadska punk verzija (text available only in serbian). One of the more intriguing bands of the scene was the band 2 Minuta Mržnje, a Serbian band that took it’s name from George Orwell’s dystopian classic Nineteen Eighty-Four and, very appropriately, recorded their demo in the year 1984.


6. Macedonia -- Makedonija


'Anarchy Loves to Sleep on the Floor of my Room' - FxPxOx

The Balkans, like much of the rest of eastern Europe, have long been afflicted with the nearly ubiquitous socially-acceptable vices of drinking and smoking--these activities are woven into the fabric of society and it’s almost impossible to imagine draconian Western measures against them being implemented in this region.

However, even in such a place, straightedge hardcore has made inroads and planted its pissed off XXX doctrine as best represented by the Skopje natives, Macedonian band FxPxOx--standing for ‘Forever Positively Obsessed’. Personal life choices aside, it’s gratifying to see a zest for ‘posi’ spirit in a former Yugoslav republic.

--Branka Šormaz, Web Director

Melissa's Recs: Acoustic Antics and a New Spin on T.I.

1. The Fest X

The Fest is an annual punk music fest held in Gainesville, Florida over Halloween weekend. I’ve always wanted to go, but having classes and it being in Florida, about 800 miles away, it’s never been a possibility.

This year, I’m hoping to change that.

It will be my senior year, and it can’t hurt to miss a day or two of class right? I’ll also be missing my last Athens’ Halloween, but I think it will be worth it to see some of my very favorite bands like Against Me!, Bomb the Music Industry!, Paul Baribeau, Bouncing Souls, Cheap Girls and many, many more all in one place!

2. Laura Stevenson and the Cans



I’m pretty sure I wrote about LS & the Cans in my last Exec Recs post, but they just released an album, Sit Resist, and “The Healthy One” is one of my favorite tracks off of it. This video was recorded for Nervous Energies, which is a series run by Ryan Russell featuring stripped down tracks from punk/ folk artists (much like Dave Garwacke’s Pink Couch series). Nervous Energies also features videos from Against Me!, Andy Hull, Kevin Devine, Cheap Girls and Lemuria. The Cans’ Nervous Energies session also includes songs “I See Dark” off Sit, Resist and “Baby Bones” off their first album A Record.

3. Pink Couch Sessions



Speaking of Pink Couch sessions, if you haven’t checked these out, you must. The concept is simple, like the Nervous Energy sessions, artists come in and play stripped down or acoustic versions of their songs on a pink couch. I’ve included a two of my favorites here, but there are so many others that are just as good—its hard for me to pick two!! The first is The Sidekicks “A Healthy Time.” The second is American War “Bricks” (make sure you watch until the end!). Both are funny videos and great songs.

4. Cheap Girls



Cheap Girls is awesome. I recently (and finally!) downloaded their album Find Me a Drink Home free from Quote Unquote Records and can’t believe it took me this long to do so! I saw them a few months ago with Laura Stevenson & the Cans and I wish I hadn’t left during their set. The above video is a Nervous Energies session of their song “Sleeping Weather” from their album My Roaring 20s. Funny how these recs are all connecting.

5. “Whatever You Like” - Anya Marina




I love this acoustic cover of T.I.’s “Whatever You Like” by Anya Marina. Even in spite of T.I.’s brilliant lyricism (“Brains so good coulda swore she went to college”), Marina transforms T.I.’s song into a creepy, sultry and danceable track. The track was also played in the background during a threesome featuring Hilary Duff on Gossip Girl. So that’s something…

--Melissa Burant, Public Relations Director

Jake's Recs: Fantasies Involving Large Sums of Money and Amoeba Music

1. "Make Some Noise" - Beastie Boys



This record came out Tuesday. These guys are 44. That’s all.

2. Dancer Equired - Times New Viking



This trio of Columbus fire-starters just came out with their fifth album, and it’s consciously cleaner than the previous four. Some people think that, without the metallic grind and ear-splitting fuzz, the songs sound a lot weaker or emptier this time.

Those people are wrong.

I like that, far from being just another fuzz pop record, this is still music made to sound a little lazy, a little off-kilter. No one in the band can sing, which makes me laugh because it’s just another obstacle replacing the fuzz. Hopefully this time, people can get past it to the song craft. The song above is a great example of it, but really, it sits aside thirteen other cuts I could have chosen.

Do yourself a favor and pick this up.

3. "The Remake of a Remake (All I Need) feat. Tawiah" - Wale



This is from his 2008 mixtape and, all home-team rooting aside (DC chillin’, P.G. chillin’), I actually picked this song because of the feature, which is a cover of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s “You’re All I Need (To Get By).”

Tawiah, whoever she is, absolutely slays it. Jump to 1:23 on this video and tell me I’m wrong. I don’t know anything else by her, but I came back to this track randomly a few weeks ago after putting this record up on the shelf, and I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.

It’s obviously sacrilege to say that she sings it better than Tammi, but the vocals soar more than I remember in the original. Enchanting.

4. “The Race” - Wiz Khalifa



The first I heard of Wiz Khalifa was when he re-appropriated a Demi Lovato song to make “We’re Done” from “Kush & OJ,” his millionth mixtape, and the one that cemented his playful stoner sensibilities in hip-hop.

I don’t know that I was expecting “The Race,” from his newest record, which re-appropriates a sound pioneered by J Dilla and that came to fruition last year with acts like Neon Indian, Washed Out, and Toro y Moi.

The thing is, this isn’t a sound usually taken up by acts like Wiz Khalifa, whose popularity in the mainstream gave him a second career renaissance. Either way, the song rules, the album is the best thing I’ve put in my car in weeks, and I hope he keeps surprising me.

5. Prince on “Lopez Tonight”

Better watch this quickly before Prince gets it taken down.

It probably doesn’t surprise anyone who knows me that I have Prince on this list, but those who don’t know of my fandom are probably scratching their heads. My advice is to not think too much about it and just watch this video.

He’s in his 50s, and he’s still bombastic enough to pull of multiple costume changes (like this gold Mao Zedong number) in a nightly talk show on cable. He was just born a performer. I actually really dig his performance of “Laydown” from his last record, the nearly-intolerable 20Ten, but damn damn damn do I still hate hate hate the part where he refers to himself as “The Purple Yoda.”

Also, his interview with Lopez is not only coherent, but I agree with a lot of what he says, which has become more unusual over time. He’s a strange dude, but it’s hard to look away from this. Plus, watch how long the women clap for him when he comes out. It’s just absurd.

6. “Tally Ho” - The Clean



I found out about this band through a friend, who also suggested a slew of other Kiwi Pop bands. This sounds to me like the connection between the Velvet Underground and Guided by Voices, or something like that.

I like that I can hear all the elements that went into this, but somewhere in the middle, they mixed to create something greater than the sum of its parts. This is their first single, and it feels like maybe the reason they got together was to put this down on tape.

P.S. I have no idea who made this video. Sorry it’s so horrifying.

7. "Journey in Satchidananda" - Alice Coltrane



I had been putting off getting into her, because I imagined some intolerable new age based on the cover alone, but I’m sorry I waited so long.

This is jazz from another planet, and her harp-playing makes feelings into music notes. Pharaoh Sanders helps to complete the ensemble. These songs are both familiar and unfamiliar, but I actually think this is probably a good entry point for someone with little knowledge of jazz—it’s not beholden to anything I can think of, and it’s always easy to get into something when you don’t feel like you’re starting in the middle.

This sounds like the beginning of something.

8. In the Jungle Groove - James Brown



I’m pretty sure everyone knows James Brown from his singles, but most of those were meticulously cut down from jams like those that appear on In the Jungle Groove. I think it was put out to catch the growing segment of people who first heard his songs as samples in hip-hop songs, but it stands just fine on its own.

Someone told me once that he used to charge money to his musicians for getting off the beat even once, which makes this an even more incredible feat. It’s tight as can be, and if you put it in your car, you’ll be bobbing in no time.

9. Amoeba’s “What’s In My Bag” Series



I’m a sucker for hearing about what artists I like are listening to. I also like buying things. This web series pretty much caters to both of those, and it features artists going into Amoeba Music, the famously gargantuan independent record stores in California, and being given some amount of money to pick out records and share what they bought.

I can’t explain why I like these so much, but I think part of it is I’m attracted to the idea of having a huge sum of money and just getting to buy whatever I think I might like, which is pretty much what happens here—most of them don’t have a list, so it’s just wherever their brain leads them that day. Hopefully someone else gets as addicted as I do, so I feel less lame.

10. Freaks and Geeks – The Homecoming Scene



This is where I get lame and tell everyone how much I dig this scene. The Styx song. Sam’s face when he realizes it’s speeding up. Goldberg the Goalie. Lindsey’s dance with Eli. This is probably my all-time favorite use of music in anything ever.

I don’t even think I’ve seen the rest of the series in a few years, but I always find myself watching the pilot so that it all leads up to this scene. I think the reason so many people connect with this show now has to do with things like this scene—you’ve probably never had this happen to you, but it feels familiar enough that you swear you have.

--Jake Derr, General Manager

Billy’s Recs: Summer Listening

1. "Rain" - Ryuichi Sakamoto



Ryuichi Sakamoto is one of my favorite modern composers, and with all my mid-terms in the past week, I’ve been listening to a lot of classical music to relax. "Rain" is off his album 1996, which contains many of his most famous compositions.

2. "Circus" - STS9



Summer is approaching, and that means music festivals. STS9's "Circus" always sticks out among my festival memories from my being at the front of their crowd at Rothbury. This opening is definitely one of my favorite memories from it.

Fun fact: You can see me around the fifteen second mark hoisting a large inflatable dolphin into the air.

3. "Bridges and Balloons"- Joanna Newsom



Joanna Newsom has one of the most unique voices I’ve ever heard. Her lyrics are whimsical and childish but fit perfectly with her style.

4. "Engwish Bwudd" - Man Man



Man Man is hard to fit into a single category of music. Their website describes them as “viking-vaudeville, manic gypsy jazz”. However you want to describe them, it’s hard to deny that they are a lot of fun to listen to.

5. "I Lived on the Moon" - Kwoon



Kwoon is an experimental French group that my neighbor recommended to me a few years ago when I told him that I was a huge Sigur Rós fan. This song is the beginning of their first album Tales and Dreams, which I highly recommend to any fans of ethereal music like Cocteau Twins and Sigur Rós.

6. "Hazey Jane II" - Nick Drake



One of my favorite albums is Bryter Layter by Nick Drake. It’s perfect for relaxing during the lazy days of summer.

7. "M.E.T.H.O.D Man" - Wu-Tang Clan



Torture. Straight torture.

--Billy Bracken, Sales Director

Dan's Recs: Going Back to the Delta

The Delta Blues is one the earliest and most influential forms of music created in the United States. It is similar to other styles of blues, but what makes it different is bottleneck slide guitars and heavy emphasis on rhythm.

The first recordings of it came from the 1920’s but the Delta Blues had been around for many years before. Most of the early recordings feature a single person singing and playing guitar, but when performed live, full bands were commonly used. The name comes from the region from which the music originated: the Mississippi Delta, which is known its fertile soil and extreme poverty. Here are a couple of my artists of the Delta Blues.

1. Howlin' Wolf



Howlin' Wolf is more associated with the Chicago Blues, but his roots come from the Delta Blues. He started playing music after being inspired by artists like Charley [sic] Patton and Tommy Johnson. In the 1950's, he had four songs in the Billboard national R&B top 50. He and Muddy Waters both recorded for Chess Records, and are regarded are two of the greatest blues artists of all time. Many influential and popular artists of the 60's and 70's covered Howlin' Wolf songs such as Eric Clapton, the Doors, and the Rolling Stones.

2. Muddy Waters



Known as the father of the Chicago blues, Muddy Waters was born in the Mississippi Delta and started playing music there until he moved to Chicago in the mid-40's. He is one of the most influential artists of all time. He helped Chuck Berry get his first record deal and influenced many popular bands and artists, including The Rolling Stones (who named themselves after his song "Rollin Stone"), Bob Dylan, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Jeff Beck, Jimi Hendrix, and the Allman Brothers.

3. Charley Patton



One of the founding fathers of the Delta Blues, Patton lived most of his childhood and early adulthood working on a plantation. Patton later spent his time traveling around the Delta and performing at various plantations. He is known for being quite a showman playing his guitar on his knees or behind his head or back.

4. Lead Belly



Lead Belly is one of most controversial and versatile artists of the Delta Blues. He usually played guitar but could also play piano, mandolin, accordion, harmonica, and utilized stomping and clapping in many of his songs. Lead Belly is also known for his multiple prison sentences, one for which he was pardoned by Senator Pat Morris Neff after writing a song for him.

5. Robert Johnson



Robert Johnson's life and music are shrouded in mystery and myths. Johnson lived such a short life and became an amazing in such a short period of time, that a legend was started that he sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his ability to play guitar.

--Dan Lesiczka, Music Director

Kevin's Recs: Starring Tommy Wiseau, Directed by Tommy Wiseau

1. "Wolfgang's 5th Symphony" - Wolfgang Gartner



Quite frankly, I can't recall where I first heard this, but I know it was at some point earlier this week. It's been on repeat often ever since. Taking house music, a genre I've been getting into more and more over the past few months, and fusing it with orchestration? Recipe for success in my eyes.

2. "Civilian" - Wye Oak



I first heard this duo when they opened for the Decemberists at the Beacon in New York. I can remember enjoying the set but also hoping that they would finish up so that my all-time favorite band could take the stage. I recently went back to Wye Oak and realized that, in my impatience, I wasn't appreciating what has to be one of the best records of 2011 thus far. "Civilian," in particular, is intense with soaring vocals and growing clatter of instrumentation that ends in a climax of a guitar solo. Oh, and did I mention that the drummer also plays keyboards -- and often both at the same time while live? Check them out, on record or otherwise. You won't be sorry.

3. "Summer Fires" - The Wilderness of Manitoba



Not since Mumford & Sons' Sigh No More has a debut album floored me as TWoM's When You Left the Fire has. I use "Summer Fires" as my means of showing them off here, but there's so many songs on the record that are more-than-worthy -- and if you're Facebook friends with me, you've probably seen me post "November" to my wall at least three times in the last two months. I have no doubt in my mind that one day these guys will break out in a big way, and I'm glad to have caught the wave before the general public does. One of my must-listens for the year. No way around it.

4. "For No One" - The Farewell Drifters



This Nashville band has been featured as part of Paste Magazine's "Best of What's Next," and with good reason. Check out this tune in particular -- a cover of The Beatles' classic "For No One." The "harmonic roots" act puts a definite Nashville twist on the song, with good results abundant. As with No. 3, I expect these guys to break out big one day. It's only a matter of time.

5. "Before the Beginning" - John Frusciante



I was telling ACRN writer/savior Christ Dubstep last night that in this nine-minute opus, the term "wailing" to describe the sound of a guitar has never sounded more applicable. Does it sound a bit like Funkadelic's "Maggot Brain"? Sure, maybe. It's been said that this track is a tribute to its predecessor -- and if so, I'd say it's a very fitting tribute. I hate that he's no longer in the Chili Peppers, but if Frusciante keeps making music like this, I can't say I mind too much.

6. "Light Up the Night" - The Protomen



The Protomen are a rock band from Tennessee that compose entire concept albums based around Mega Man. No, seriously. They played in Columbus last night, and had:
1) I not already purchased a ticket to the Decemberists and
2) it not been at an anime convention and therefore would have cost me admission/registration at the event, I would have totally gone.

7. The Room



"Hai, doggy!"

8. "Red Lake Shore" - Southeast Engine



If you haven't listened to Southeast Engine's new record Canary yet, there's something wrong with you. As perfect a slice of Appalachia as you can get.

9. "Douglas Douglass" - Pearl and the Beard



This video does a few things for me. First, it reminds me of when these three talented musicians came through Athens last November, putting on one of the best shows I've seen in this town. Second, it reminds me of the time I spent in New York last winter -- and what's more, the spot at which this was recorded was a mere five blocks from where I happened to work each day. Third? Well, "Douglas Douglass" happens to be my favorite song from PatB's new record Killing the Darlings, which came out earlier this month.

10. "Yonkers" - Tyler, the Creator



Am I being very original with this pick? Not at all. Do I care? Same answer.


--Kevin Rutherford, Editorial Director

Tate's Recs: Silly, Giggle, Wiggle Recs...

I was thinking the other day about discovering music and some of the best ways of doing so on a regular basis. Something I often turn to, other than charts or blogs, is YouTube channels. One of the channels I turn to frequently is UKF Dubstep or UKF Drum & Bass. These two pages update on an almost daily basis with the freshest of fresh tracks. Sometimes they upload unreleased tracks as well, so keep on the lookout. Checking up on these types of channels for new releases of your favorite music every day can really expand the tunes you listen to. Below are a few of my recommendations from UKF and some from some albums that have been stuck on repeat in my skull.

1. "Guilt VIP" - Nero



This is another one of Nero's absolute slammers of a track. Soaring vocal lines and killer basslines are all you need.

2. "Keep Holding On" - Dream



This one came out of left field for me. I had never heard of Dream before and at first listen, the song sounds cheesy, boring and uneventful. As soon as you hit the halfway point, however, all that changes and this becomes a monster. A very unique bassline with a clubby throwback melody.

3. "Tonight (Feat. Netsky)" - Danny Byrd



Words cannot even begin to describe how incredible this tune is. Danny Byrd has been putting out absolute club destroyers for years and years, but this is by far one of the best. That classic vocal slicing effect is apparent throughout and the combination of Netsky's extremely melodic sound makes this unstoppable. From start to end this is a winner. I recommend everything Danny has ever done.

4. "Iron Heart" - Netsky



A fine example of Netsky's work. Though this one is a little bit darker than most of what he does, it has all the definitive elements of his style. A song built around extremely meaningful melody and style.

5. "Dazed & Confused (SKisM's Baroque Out Remix)"- RacknRuin



Sounds like an outer-space vacuum cleaner. Incredible bass tone is a trademark of SKisM and this tune represents that 100 percent. Check out everything SKisM has done.

6. "M.A.D." - Hadouken!



A really fun tune. Chart topper in the UK and overall quality crossover between grime and straightforward breaks. Love it.

--Tate Galbraith, Director of Production

Dani’s Recs: Spring Cleaning

I decided it was about time to do some spring cleaning on my iTunes library. Honestly, I tend to listen to the same few artists (David Bowie, Talking Heads, Pixies, and the Velvet Underground) over and over again, and I end up forgetting about many of the other amazing artists I have on my iPod. I set out to clean up my library, and--in that process--found some great stuff that I forgot I had.

1. Crazysexycool and Fan Mail - TLC



This amazing female trio was a vital part of my child hood. I can't believe I forgot I had TLC on my iPod. I will probably have "No Scrubs" stuck in my head for a while.

2. Dance Party in the Balkans - Alaska in Winter

Overall, this album could be described as a Dance Party in the Balkans. I could to listen to “Close Your Eyes- We Are Blind” on repeat for hours.

3. Remixes Vol. 1 - Ratatat

I remember that I first listened to this album in my friend’s house in high school. I am such a sucker for a good mash-up and I am stoked to have rediscovered this album.

4. The Lion King Soundtrack



What else can I say? "Hakuna Matata."

5. Deep Cuts - The Knife

The Knife is electronic music duo from Sweden with a pretty enthralling sound.

I didn’t find this while cleaning up my library but my co-worker brought this album back to my attention a couple months ago.

Whether you are interested in any of these artists or not, I suggest that you take the time to clean up your library. It is a great way to clean up those files, rediscover artists and relive your childhood.

--Danielle Mouhlas, Traffic Director

Christine's Recs

1.The Breeders


“Cannonball” – The Breeders

I am a person that will listen to the same album or song over and over again. All spring break I listened to Pod and Last Splash on repeat. Spring break was cold sleet weather and I spent most of it on my parents couch, but I was content humming along to the ripe musical produce of the Deal sisters. I am a girl of simple pleasures.

2. Working Out


“Work It” – Missy Elliot

Specifically work-out music. I often listen to Girl Talk and Pixies albums during my hot and sweaty dates with the elliptical machine because I am too easily distracted to sit down and make playlists. Every once in a while I’ll go with hip hop or riot grrrl. I’m also doing zumba which is basically just dancing around like an idiot, at least when I do it.

3. Sleater-Kinney


“Get Up”- Sleater-Kinney

I’ve recently been revisiting THE band of my childhood and teen years. I’m thirteen again and in my bedroom and bleating along at the top of my lungs. They inspired my feeble attempts at guitar-playing and provided an outlet for my teenage rage. They got me through an early puberty and saved me from drowning in the social shark tank of being the new kid at school again and again by providing some after school relief and understanding. They are a part of why I’ve proudly and unabashedly considered myself a feminist since first having an inkling of the concept.

4. The X-Files

As you have already witnessed, nineties music is already an integral part of my life and now, thanks to Netflix, nineties television is too. I don’t remember very much from when The X-Files was originally on other than the spooky synths. This is probably due to its being on after my bedtime (I was four when this show started) and hearing it through the thin walls of the apartment while my parents or the babysitter watched it. Now that I am grown, I get the pleasure of squinting at my dark television screen while dark shapes run around yelling “Scullleee!?” and Mulllderr!?”

5. The Heavy Guitar Bible

The Heavy Guitar Bible by Richard Daniels

This was recommended to me right before spring break and I’m about halfway through the concepts. It’s heavy on theory and minimal in design. In terms of books, I’ve learned the most from black and white instructional texts that are slim and straightforward. Topics range from physics and chemistry to guitars and cooking.

--Christine Davis, Programming Director

Matt's Recs: Beats and Grooves

1. Domo Genesis & Hodgy Beats - Tang Golf/OFWGKTA


If you haven't heard Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All, known as OFWGKTA, go check them out now. Seriously. These guys are ridiculously talented. I love hip-hop, and I love Wu-Tang Clan, and I love this cover. Domo and Hodgy show their lyrical skill and flow so well over this classic beat, and... just listen. And then go listen to the rest of OFWGKTA. Then be mystified and start a riot or burn down a church.

2. DJ Shadow- Number Song


This is just one of the incredible beats you can groove to off of D.J. Shadow's Endtroducing. It is just the kind of song you want to listen to while you walk to class when its 75 degrees out and sunny. It has an upbeat tempo and a really cool feel to it, plus the sample blending (the whole album is made of samples) is awesome. In an age when every kid with a computer or phone is mouthing off mindless nonsense, its cool to note that someone can communicate without even uttering a word of his own.

3. Enter the Magical Mystery Chambers


Speaking of Wu-Tang, here is more debauchery. I can't stop listening to it. I actually like this mash-up better than Danger Mouse's The Grey Album. It has a better set beat than the Grey Album, so the lyrics and music flow a lot better together. Get if you love The Beatles, Wu-Tang, or just some great mashed up debauchery.

4. DC Universe Online

Before you skip to 5, hear me out. Did you ever want to be a superhero? I bet most of you answered yes. Well, now you can. Think World of Warcraft, but with Batman. Think of questing for the sake of good with Lex Luthor gunning after you. Intense, I know. Go grab your tights and say goodbye to your free time, its time for nerd glory.

5. Go outside.

Enjoy springtime. Run around in the sun. Unless you aren't in Athens or you are in a place where its still winter. Then you should stay inside or consider moving.

Matt Wesley, Chief Engineer

Arthur's Recs: From treasure to guilty pleasures

1. Exit Through the Gift Shop
This documentary about street artist Banksy takes a really interesting look at the state of art, culture, and being anonymous.


2. Drunk Twitter
Never really understood Twitter before I turned 21. Now I don't go to the bars without it. Sometimes, you have thoughts you should keep to yourself and sometimes you have thoughts that you should share with strangers and friends via your cell phone. Plus it's a great way to learn about new music. Just watch out for drunken typos.


3. Comanche
Call this group whatever you want, chill wave, electronica, or pop, but any way you phrase it they're making some of the best new music around.


4. Websites
bustedBASS just got our own website! I never knew how much fun it is to have your own website. It's kind of like having a baby that you can pimp out to the world.


5. The Black Eyed Peas - The Beginning

This album is a huge guilty pleasure of mine. B.E.P. picked up a very European House sound for it, and while the single, "The Time," is a little cheesy, the album has some great cuts like the one above. Please don't judge the album based on their awful Superbowl performance.


6. Passion Pit (Le Chev Remix)

I have had this playing nonstop ever since I found it via RCRD LBL a few weeks ago. If you like music, don't miss this one.


7. Swag
Swag is not something you can buy at the store. Some people can turn theirs on. Others are swaggin' nonstop. One day, a study will be performed on this mysterious essence, but until then I'll fuck wit it.

Arthur Henke, Mobile Director

Billy's Rec's: The Billy Bracken Experience, Are You Experienced?

1. The Books - "Smells Like Content"


The Books never cease to surprise me with their unique blend of folk, experimental, and spoken word. It's hard to pick a single song to represent them because their songs are incredibly diverse. While they often incorporate the guitar, banjo, and cello in their music, they also make use of various samplings ranging from famous quotations to music found discarded at thrift stores.

They experiment with many non-traditional musical instruments as well, like toys and filing cabinets, which are looped as background sounds.

Their lyrics are extremely abstract and can be interpreted in a multitude of ways. My favorite line in this song is "Expectation. Often leads to disappointment/ If you don't expect something big and exciting... usually...", at which point the song ends, driving home the point that it is important to live life in the present, and not constantly worried about future gains.

2. The Streets - "Blinded By The Lights"


I have always been a huge fan of Mike Skinner, known by his stage name The Streets. After his latest album was released this February, I've gotten really into him again.

"Blinded By The Lights" is one of his older songs, and one of the first songs that attracted me to The Streets. It's a really relaxed song, documenting the frustration Mike experiences losing his friends at a club, then ultimately discovering his girlfriend is cheating on him with his best friend. The song documents his initial spiral downward, but ultimately culminating in complete bliss and overcoming his emotions.

3. Borgore - "Guided Relaxation Dub"


With the dubstep genre becoming increasingly popular, I feel that many artists have simply become interchangeable with one another. It's just a difference of where each artist decides to throw in the mandatory "whoomp... whooomp." Borgore puts an entirely new spin on the dubstep genre, creating a much grimier and almost metal sound.

While his music might not be everyone's cup of tea, I find it refreshing to see an artist reinventing a genre becoming overwhelmed with generic sounds. The drop after the initial guided relaxation sampling makes you realize this isn't your generic, American Apparel hipster dubstep.

4. Immortal Technique - "Leaving The Past"


Current hip-hop artists tend to focus on glorification of a criminal lifestyle, drugs and violence. Immortal Technique is unique with his music in that he focuses on political activism in his lyrics. He expresses commentary on poverty, racism, religion, governmental oppression and conspiracy and historical facts. It's impressive how he manages to merge impressive rhymes and beats with controversial topics.

In "Leaving The Past," he discusses the dangers of our capitalist society and the oppression we freely impose on other countries with our military strength. He also explores the topic of racial inequality that still exists in modern society even though we tend to overlook it. One of the most powerful lines in this song I think is, "I hate it when they tell us how far we came to be/ as if our peoples' history started with slavery."

5. Rodrigo y Gabriela - "Tamacun"


I've been obsessed with this band ever since I saw them last year. The band is comprised of Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero. Their music is a fusion of Latin rock, folk rock, and metal. Both musicians share a passion for metal music, and incorporate fast rhythmic guitar-playing and extended solos in their music. It's hard to find a song by them that I don't like, but I think "Tamacun" is a good example of the unique style they have created.

6. Yello - "Oh Yeah"


I just had to include this song in my blog as an homage to Ferris Bueller's Day Off, which I just re-watched a couple days ago. Every time that I ace an exam or do well on a presentation, this song inevitably starts playing in my head. It's the perfect soundtrack to success.

--Billy Bracken, Sales Director