Mylo Xyloto - Coldplay

I've been putting off writing a review on Coldplay's latest album - Mylo Xyloto, up until now. Well, partly I was waiting to get my hands on the entire album and previously since I had heard only a couple of the songs, which themselves were bliss to the ears, I had a feeling that justice could be done only after hearing to the entire album.

Synopsis: The whole experience is surreal and exhilarating. Coldplay has included more electronic effects into the songs than ever before and the result is just beautiful. Close your eyes as you hear and it just plays on your mind letting it wander into an expanse of creativity and endless illusional possibilities ;) The beats and vibrations are very positive and uplifting. The feel good factor has always been a thing of Coldplay's songs and this time around, the inclusion of new experimental electronic sounds have added to the beauty of the tracks. It is a very matured Coldplay album with the band really coming of age here. I could really go on and on about how mesmerizing the music is, but I urge you to get the album asap and switch off your minds and let Mylo Xyloto take you on a wonderful and peaceful journey !

Make sure you hear them on high quality headphones/ speakers to catch all the sounds in their right loudness levels.

Genre/Ambience: Easy Listening, Electronic/Soft Rock. A definite on the playlist after a stressful and busy day.

Best Tracks: Paradise, Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall, Hurts Like Heaven, Charlie Brown (Just for the record, I do vouch for the entire album!!)

You will also like: U2, R.E.M

Rating: 8.5/10

Inner Peace \m/

$ur

Dengue Fever

I came across this very different band called the Dengue Fever sometime back today, while stumbling over the plethora of sites on the WWW. The music struck as me a very different one and the band has identified itself to be of a rather interesting genre - Psychedelic Rock n Roll. Well, don't be fooled by the psychedelic music realm because it is nothing like Pink Floyd as you might expect.The band combines music from Cambodia with Californian Rock n Roll to generate a beautiful fusion that is quite unique and unusual.

"Lead singer Chhom Nimol’s haunting voice", as I remember having read somewhere, is catchy to say the least. For the sake of knowing that such diverse music exist, at least, I'd definitely recommend looking up some of their music on youtube. 

Recommended Tracks : Sleepwalking Through The Mekong, Made of Steam, Sni Bong, Sober Driver

Ambiance: Whenever you need a flying feelin' (or whenever you are flyin ;))

Peace,

$ur

Brendan and The Secret Of Kells

Foreword:

*Yawn*... a lazy evening here at Melbourne..rain lashing on the windows..had it been more chilly, it would have certainly added to the ambience..

I was tipped off recently of the OSTs of this new flick, Brenden and The Secret of Kells.. So here I'm listening to it sitting in my dark room..Dunno whether it is the hangover of the still fresh tracks from Porcupine Tree from the morning's playlist or just an uncanny resemblance of some of these tracks to it..less dark in nature though..

Highlights: Magical feel of ringing bells ; bagpipes, cello strumming, drumming, echoes, varying pitches n tempo..mythological..violin and flute solos..mesmerizing compositions and very gentle transitions between each instrumental piece.. soothing..

Peace,

$ur

Jesus on Extasy

Thanks to my bro JJ, I was tipped off about this new band in the Industrial Rock arena. Based in Germany, their music, has a definitive influence from the popular German industrial music. I cannot really say that their music however is the most original of the kind. For those of you who are familiar with the music scene in this genre and slightly similar ones, will notice a certain uncanny resemblance in parts of JOE's compositions with other bands. But nevertheless, there are some really ear tantalizing tracks which will definitely get you hooked.

Tracks are mostly dark with a electronic rant in the background with experimental vocals; experimental because they sound different in each composition. The band caught my attention, not because of their drumming, vocals, strumming or anything individually, but for their 'compositions' in whole. The experience is strikingly awesome.

Ambience - Let me suggest a rainy/cloudy day to try the tracks. This will most undoubtedly set the right state of mind to assimilate the electronic intricacies in the music.

Favourite Tracks - No gods, Tonight, Assassinate me

Similar Bands - Marlyn Manson, Rammstein, Nine Inch Nails

Rating - 7.0/10

Peace,

$ur

\m/ Godsmack - A Tribute \m/

I can't help but wonder why Godmack, such a godly awesome "Heavy" Rock band is so very less known and followed by hard and heavy rock and metal music fans !! I have asked many and they have of course heard of them; but back India, when I've been to gigs, none of the local bands ever played covers of Godsmack; more interestingly, they are hardly even spoken about in the Rock/Metal world than by few hardcore fans such as myself ! 

One of the things I like most about this band is the notably big difference in the singing style of Sully Erna, the front man and vocalist of Godsmack; which is I think is one of the purest forms of clean growling vocals. This is something which even death vocalists don't normally do. Death vocals - both the screech and growl versions, are something different altogether. It takes more practice, patience and even a whole of breathing and vocal exercises than clean singing; but blood curdling clean growls is something of the genetics than anything else and that I think is what distinguishes the singing style of Sully from others. Maybe this is also one of the main reasons why bands don't try to play their covers !!

They are widely popular in the US and are known to have some of the best live shows ever. They have been nominated for the Grammys several times and have toured around the world several times which have made them very popular. Well, this therefore sounds very paradoxical, when I say, their band merchandise is very rarely seen in the shops. I myself have inquired at many shops here in Australia , only to hear "Ah..Nah mate..we haven't got anything of Godsmack" ; I'm like why !!?? It is not like they don't know of the band here :P, but simply that they haven't got it. 

I had this feeling therefore that, I have got to do something in my own way to let at least a few random blog readers know of this band. Maybe something like a tribute in the form a blog post dedicated to one of the best ever in the business and one of the bands I have been most loyal to, ever since I started my relationship with rock music. I'm sure people who have listened to Godsmack, are absolutely psyched about them; but for those of you are new this band and are fans of rock music, this is one of the bands you shouldn't miss listening to; correction, Head banging to \m/ !

11 Personal Recommendations -  (For a complete experience, watch their videos !!)

1. Re-Align 
2. Straight Out of Line
3. I Stand Alone - Live version
4. Doing the Best I Can
5. Voodoo 
6. Changes
7. Serenity
8. Awake
9. Enemy
10. Releasing the Demons
11. Speak

\m/ Peace \m/,

$ur

Hangover

“Pepper – Butthole Surfers” - J what a name for a band ! This song supposedly appeared in the Hangover Promos, couldn't actually find it in the movie though. But a terrific song. It is kinda psychedelic in between with some really cool narration like lyrics in between. There is slight similarity somewhere in the kind of music, to the Gorillaz. The beats and the music give it a nice touch.

“It’s Now Or Never – El Vez” – The movie starts off with this old Elvis Priestley song sung by El Vez. There ain’t much to the song and you wouldn’t probably notice the lovely style of the song as the movie opens with the bride trying to reach her fiancé who hasn’t still turned up on the day of their wedding J Well, the song pulls you into a Mexican backdrop, if you hear it outside of the movie. The accent of El Vez and the typical instruments used in the song gives you a similar feeling as that to the Desperado movie. It eases you into a beautiful thought process and then some of the explicit lyrics in between will make your sides ache, laughing J !

“Thirteen - Danzig” – Highlight - The vocals are sweet! The music is full of attitude. Its a slow paced singing with nice backing music and somehow I got a feeling of the Wild West or one of those bad ass movies...I think you ll feel it too with the sound of the wind blowing in the background and a dusty picture comes into your mind. Can be a rock classification, this song, but certainly not the kind you would know of much. Do give it a try!!

“Take it Off – The Donnas” – The Vegas (Sin City) road trip starts off in a kick-ass fashion with this song. Well the video is a must watch with the song when you first hear it. It will set the picture right up in your mind as to how the movie goes ! Watch out for Alan...this is where he starts to come in from nowhere with a bang!

“Can't Tell Me Nothing Feat Lil'Wayne, Busta Rhymes & Young Jeezy (Remix)” – An awesome song and a perfect timing to have come into the movie. Las Vegas comes into picture with this song. Do try this song, even out of the movie, this song will strike you as an unusually different one!

“Livin Your Life – Y.I Ft. Rihanna” – The song compliments the scene as the guys check into the Villa @ Caesar’s Castle. Backdrop is a lovely suite with the windows overlooking the Vegas casinos.

“Who let the Dogs Out - Bahamen” – This is typically when, if you see the movie in the flow it takes you; you will notice how much you start to like the character Alan in the movie. There is nothing new to say about this fun song as it is very popular and one which has been around for quite some time now. But yea, well timed again!!

“Yeah – Usher” – This song is soon after Alan’s small and hilarious speech on the rooftop of the Hotel. Just a event marking song and nothing more there in it!

“Fever – The Cramps” – This is where the Hangover starts to kick in J Stu wakes up with a heavy head totally oblivious to the mess he sees around him...the song’s too good and compliments the scene perfectly. Out of the movie, its a song that goes well with a “Bong” ;) definitely gives you a crawling trance like feeling!

“Wedding Bells (Are Breaking Up That Old Gang Of Mine) – Gene Vincent and His Blue Caps” – This song will go unnoticed in the movie J completely b’cos of the hilarious scene and the situation they are in. As Stu says it sometime soon after this, “We are so f****d!” A nice song this one..very much pleasing, but yea not for all situations J

“In The Air Tonight – Phil Collins” – Well fans of Phil Collins don’t need a review to know how his songs go, truly amazing! But as to why it is there in the movie..a different thing altogether ! Now am I reviewing the movie or the OSTs...do listen to the song, the magical voice of Phil Collins will swing you away! The volley of beats and the music that follow after the lyrics solo gives you the goosebumps..be sure to turn your speakers to full volume. You might even consider making it your intro song J !!

“Stu’s Song – Ed Helms” - J Listen...awesome !!

“Rhythm and Booze - Treat Her Right” – Funky; It is like Blues, a kind of pub music that eases off some steam. The saxophone gives it a unique touch. So much to booze, give it a shot ;)!

“Iko Iko – The Belle Stars” – Its a carnival song, or at least, that is the vibe I get. I’ve not heard one quite like this in sometime, I’m sure. Recommended hearing as part of the movie, outside of which it might stick out as little odd, or better put, out of context!!

“Joker and The Thief – Wolfmother” – Rocking ! Adrenaline pumping . . . Not surprisingly this song was part of the OSTs of the Need For Speed Carbon! First one I’ve heard from the band. There s a nice guitar strumming that is characteristic of the song ! Singing is very high pitched, there is a definitive crowd pulling energy in it. All rock fans and drivers alike, this one s a must in your collection!!

“Three Best Friends - Zach Galifianakis” - J, just part of the OST !

“Ride The Sky II – Revolution Mother” – This is a headbanger... head throbbing stuff !! Again a band new to me... do get this one if you are a hardcore rock/metal fan ! It won’t let you down.

“Candy Shop - Dan Finnerty & The Dan Band” – Originally a song by 50 Cents Ft. Olivia, this one tops the OSTs. . . the way the song is sung is just too amazing. The lyrics may come off as either totally hilariously insane, given the scene it compliments or as a turn off to people who might get offended given its explicit nature J The flow of the lyrics is handled absolutely fabulously. The two other artists, off the top of my mind, who have blown me away with a similar feat are Jason Mraz and Billy Joel, though completely from a different genre, I know !

“Right Round - Flo Rida Feat. Kesha” – As the credits come down; the song best suits the theme and the wild time the 4 of the guys had at Vegas which they couldn’t remember at all J A club/ party song which is truly a great song. One song you will remember for a long time even if you hear it just once. It will make you search down the song and get it at any cost J, I did !!

Whew . . it took the wind out of me . . . needed a break and after writing this one now, I do really need a break :)

Peace

$ur

In Bruges - Background Scores

Carter Burwell In Bruges Soundtrack 0:00 The Last Judgement 1:52 View From The Tower 2:55 My Suicide Your Homicide 4:34 Save The Next Boy 5:53 Ray At The Mirror 7:12 Walking Bruges7:48 The Magic...

The way the movie is shot, the Belgium landscaping and the background scores make the experience complete. The compositions are classy. This movie is a must try for music lovers and movie critics alike !

Try this movie when you need to catch a break in your fast paced life; it definitely will cure your nerves ;) !!

Peace

$ur

Death Cab For Cutie – Narrow Stairs

Genre - Pop, Rock

Synopsis - I am calling this latest album of Death Cab For Cutie, both a musical and a literary masterpiece at the same time. Most of the songs are all pretty slow moving; gives you ample time to take in the lyrics and get you to think deep, beyond what is sung. The album eases you into a very relaxing mood. There is a good variety of songs here, which again helps you sit back and forget the hassle of changing the genre with some other albums. Moreover, I think this is an album for everyone, so don t go by it by the genre alone, try hearing to them, I am sure you ll like it !!

Ambience - Listen to these songs when you are totally stressed out and need some peace !

Favourite Tracks - The Ice Is Getting Thinner, Pity and Fear, Bixby Canyon Bridge, Grapevine Fires, Your New Twin Sized Bed.

Rating - 8.0/10

Panda Bear - Person Pitch

Genre - Experimental Electronic Music

Synopsis - I liked this one. Never have I heard something that closely resembles this one. There are a whole lot of musical experimentation in all the songs. There is a particular song called Good Girl/Carrots, which has a tabla playing in the background. A little mystic....It adds a little touch of sunshine to your life, I feel. There is also an unmistakable feel good factor incorporated somewhere in the songs too. Before you know, the same song which was perhaps reminding you of a fairly tale, will now take you into a jungle of other sounds. There is even a train bustling in the background of one song !! All very pleasing to the ears !! A, must try musical endeavour.

Ambience - The album is itself a wonderful ambience !

Favourite Tracks - Take pills, Search for delicious, Bro's

Rating - 7.0/10

Battles - Mirrored

Genre - Indie, Electronic

Synopsis - I came across this album called Mirrored on Metacritic. This album had made its way into the Best of 2007 charts, as per their critics. Now take it from me, its nothing like you will imagine of this album until you hear this. Its a mixture of keyboard effects, the kind your young cousin would have made when he first got his hands on a keyboard or a small piano. Of course, Battles have included some rhythmic sounds and drumming in the background. Well there are hardly any vocals (other than few intermittent voices in the song Bad Traits) in this whole album. Its just sounds, electronic and MC. I felt fooled after getting this album !! Well, true they aren't my kind of music anyway, but all those who felt they always had an answer to some of life's weirdest makings, should hear to these tracks and then ask themselves whether they have an answer now !! As a person who is adventurous in trying out different genres, I recommend all to give this a try, anyway; but at the same time, it is also an avoidable for the faint hearted, who might question. " how the hell did this album make into the Best of 2007" !!

Ambience - Doesn't matter, you ll get to know !

Favourite Tracks - Personally, I didn't like this album.

Rating - 3.0/10

Burial - Untrue

Genre - Electronic, Trance, Grime

Synopsis - This new album from Burial, is something of a masterpiece collaborating trance music with electronic sounds in the background. Its got a magical touch and don t be surprised if you are reminded of unicorns and angels. There however, is a slight similarity to songs of Enigma.

Ambience - Cloudy or rather rainy evening, sitting in solitude, a dark room preferably lit only by the evening glow ! And I d recommend this particular setting to listen to this album, because it demands that sort of attention to intricate sound detailing. The darkness of the setting will add to this musical experience.

Best Songs - Etched headplate, Endorphin.

Rating - 7.0/10

When the world saw Blue, we taught them Black

This post is dedicated to all of those people, who have seen us play or enjoy music, and have felt its a Lifestyle by itself !

Thats us at NIT Ragam 2008, where we made through to the finals of the rock show and finished third on the podium !

Looking back at it, it was one helluva experience and feeling that can't be explained by my humble vocab !

It was a dream come true for all of us and it really proved that practice could get you to places !

My good friend Arun (a.k.a CP), who is also the band's drummer ( now ex, just like myself ) and I had always dreamt of forming a band when we first made friends at college.

Didn't quite see it happen until a bunch of young talent joined us couple of years later. Getting together and then agreeing on one genre was tough. It took us an yr to get noticed outside college. Our IIT Saarang performance was really a platform from where we picked up some energy and stage presence. One another thing worth mentioning about the IIT trip, was the fun we all had together as a band. We even shopped , ate, had loads of fun on the train journey, together. For 4 days it was just music all around and man, did it cure the senses ;-) !!

Then on, the jams and experience from IIT, gave us amazing confidence that we could really pull off this show at NIT. It was also known to be our last performance together, with me and CP soon leaving for our jobs and other priorities after college.

I won't go into the details of our show, but wouldn't miss out the fact that, as a band, esp on stage, you have this feeling that you hold the key to people s hearts !!

Will really miss the days we jammed, defying authorities @ college, crossing the limits of sanity and having fun the way we wanted and most of all make people around us, encore for more !!

It ll always be cherished as one of the most important things that livened up our college life !

Fellas, in this rat race of life, music is one thing that ll ensure your mental well being...rock on and never say die !!

Peace,

$ur

Pitchblack - Singing as a band !

A moment to cherish on the genesis of Pitchblack !

THIS IS OUR COLLEGE ROCK BAND ! (work done in Adobe Photoshop CS3)