Warpaint - Soon To Be Enlightening Us Again

I found out earlier that Warpaint are soon to be releasing a new album in January. As I can connect to their music, I immediately got excited!

Such things have happened where I feel lost and homesick in my own room (long story). However, quite a few of Warpaint's songs have made me feel more at home, and make me imagine about where my true home is. For reasons like this one, they really do mean a lot to me.

Along with personal reasons, it's lovely to see a girl band showing off true talent. Their sound is unique, and with haunting vocals from Emily Kokal, it's hard for the Californian band not to get noticed.

In the build up to the release of their self-titled record, they have released what will be their first single, 'Love Is To Die', from the album online. The fans who pre-order their record, however, have the opportunity to get a free download of the single. (*Woo hoo!*)

After listening to it, I'm definitely ordering it! It's got all the Warpaint characteristics: it's unique, it's haunting, it's chilled, perfect! With the key changes on the track, the overall sound is bizarre, yet works so brilliantly! If this is a sign for things to come, I'm really looking forward!

So, Warpaint fans, you definitely have to check this one out. Certainly not to be missed, and if you have any sense, you'd put January 20th on the calendar. Guess what I've done already?

Glow And Behold! Yuck Are Back

I found these guys a while back, and, honestly, it took a few songs to get used to their sound. After that, I learned to appreciate them!

I saw on Facebook the day their album was released, and immediately I was really looking forward to checking it out! So, what was it like, you ask?

Personally, I really enjoyed it! In the style of music I love, how could I not like it?

'Sunrise In Maple Shade' opens 'Glow & Behold', and although it consists of literally one repetitive riff, it's a really chilled start to the album. It certainly works, beginning the record simply, but on a positive note.

So far, there are two singles from the album, which are 'Middle Sea' and 'Rebirth'. 'Middle Sea' is certainly one of the more up-tempo tracks, with bright riffs and an awesome tune. Following, conveniently, is 'Rebirth' (the free download on their site), which has a similar feel to 'Middle Sea', yet has a more artistic sound to it. Definitely two tracks that you must check out!

The second instrumental track, 'Twilight In Maple Shade', is second to last on the album. Sometimes these instrumental songs don't quite work right, but this, like the first, suits the mood perfectly. Artistic through music, what more could you want?

Admittedly, I thought it was going to end it, but no, I forgot about the title track, 'Glow & Behold'. This ends it perfectly on a light mood, and it's repetitive ending riff rounds off the style completely.

I have to say, as I was listening to the record, I couldn't come up with a favourite track. Every new song became my favourite, and now the CD is on my list of ones I must buy. It is a very uplifting piece of work (of course with a few contrasting sounds), and easily lovable!

It could be argued that, depending on the style you prefer, 'Glow & Behold' is an easier listen than their 2011 self-titled record. On the other hand, maybe their self-titled is more original? It's up to you what you prefer. All I will say is that, if you enjoy the indie/art rock scene, then Yuck are definitely worth a shot!

Royalty To Avenged Sevenfold

I came home Friday to a package in my name in the letter box. Of course I knew what it was, so, excitedly, I tore open the envelope and listened to 'Hail To The King' straight away. (Avenged love, in case you hadn't guessed!)

I'm guessing you know what I thought of it. So, let's cut to the chase; I loved it!

In all honesty, I wasn't sure what I'd think of it. With the sad loss of their drummer Jimmy, how would their sound change? Would it have a huge impact? Would it be a good change, or a bad one? Would they be completely unrecognizable, and would their original fans be greatly disappointed?

I can answer these questions honestly (and I promise I'll be as unbiased as I can!): Yes, their sound has changed, but not to the unrecognizable, and honestly, it's matured. Their sound is amazing! I'm sure their fan base is thoroughly enjoying this piece of work. I certainly am!

The biggest obvious impact is that their drum lines have calmed significantly. With their new drummer, their style is still there, but the drum parts are certainly cooler and less insane, yet they work perfectly with the other parts by making them easier to hear. As much as Avenged's music is masterpiece, their older stuff had very complicated parts all around. This one down-step has made everything else easier to hear, creating a more mature sound.

The music on the album does create contrasts. Their opening track, 'Shepherd Of Fire', creates a build up from the start. When I say build up, I don't just mean the song, I mean to the album as well. It's flawless! Their classic dual guitar parts with Synyster's solo create the distinct Avenged sound, and the drums accommodate this with open arms. However, one of the most incredible pieces of work, I feel, on the album has to be 'Crimson Day'. It begins with a classic Metallica sound, with guitar and voice beauty. The song really does have a stunning feel to it, and it really is hard not to like!

So, in all, Avenged Sevenfold have done it again. 'Hail To The King' is yet another completely different album for the band, but, I must say, it is easily one of their best works. It must have been so difficult for them to even imagine writing a new album with their loss of Jimmy, but they have, and the follow on from 'Nightmare' is a great success! They should be very proud, and I'm so excited for their upcoming tour later this year. Bring on November 30th guys!!!!

The Knife Are Shaking The Habitual Way

Admittedly, I discovered this artist backwards - I first found Fever Ray, which led me to find The Knife. Also, admittedly, I didn't appreciate The Knife the first time I listened, it took me months to come around to them. However, I've finally found the love for them!

I know this album was released in April, but like I say, it's been a while since I've been able to post, so listening and reviewing them has been out of the question. So, here I am!

I had a mixed opinion on this album. It has been split into two CDs, which virtually contrast each other. CD 1 has a strange take on their style, but overall is generally enjoyable. 'A Tooth For An Eye' is the opening track, and entirely lovable! It is definitely the stand-out track on the first side, possible the album all together.

CD 2, however, goes into a weird and wonderful world of the unknown. (I'm not kidding, you have to listen to understand.) The music on the second side mainly involves roughly 10 minute tracks of sounds rather than actual musical material, which is where my mixed views come from. 'Fracking Fluid Injection' was probably the strangest one - almost entirely sound effects and wailing. It was at this point I wasn't too sure what I thought, until the final track, 'Ready To Lose', changed my mind completely. It was like falling out of love and being drawn back in again!

Overall, there were times that I wish they would have created an album much like their 2006 release 'Silent Shout', as this sadly isn't as easy to listen to. However, I do feel that it will be a grower, much like their (and Fever Ray's) music altogether, which does take a while to appreciate. There is definitely still hope in the album, even if it is just the tracks that are easy to love.

Hail To The King, Avenged Sevenfold!

When I went onto my Youtube account, I had the shock of my life along with excitement - A new Avenged song came up. Better yet, an advert appeared for a new upcoming album in August!

Naturally, Avenged Sevenfold have had a huge influence on my life and music taste ever since I discovered them properly three years ago, when I was 14. Their music fits just about any mood, and a lot of it I connected with, especially when I was going through a really hard time.

A year after my Great Auntie passed on, 'Dear God' was my saviour and depressant all at the same time. I adored the song, and it really explained how I felt, through the beauty of the words and music. Three days later, I got Nightmare, which became so hard to listen to due to the circumstances.

Needless to say that this band have a special place in my heart. Hearing they had a new single was amazing! Immediately, I checked it out.

I'm sure you've already guessed what my opinion was on it - I loved it! I'd say the only thing that's slightly disappointing is that the drum line is rather plain compared to past Avenged music, but, at the same time, who can blame them for simplifying what used to be their late dear brother's talent? No one could possibly replace Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan.

However, this simplified drum part works to their advantage in some ways as well. It really brings out the always-elaborate dual guitar part of Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengeance. The song, as a whole, really has the "classic" rock/metal feel, and, as always, M. Shadows' voice suits the music perfectly!

So, 'Hail To The King' really does bring Avenged Sevenfold back on the music scene. After this taster, I'm intrigued to find out what their new album will be like as a whole.

Now the waiting game begins: August 26th is the album release date and a trip to Britain is arranged in November/December. (Eep!!) This year could be another big one for them!

Bon Jovi, What About Now Tour

So, Wednesday June 12th, my mother and I went to see her heros. Bon Jovi surprised us both by visiting Cardiff and treating us to an entertaining night of music in the Cardiff City Stadium.

Well, my mum said that it was one of the best concerts she's seen them play (for the woman who's seen them eight times). And, I must say, they were on form! Opening with 'That's What The Water Made Me' really did get the crowd going, although it did shock me that they didn't begin with 'Because We Can'. I thought that was true opening material, but then again who can complain with surprises!

Bon Jovi began by playing a few of their new songs, which were a fantastic start to the night. However, shortly after he went straight back into the classics, which immediately increased the excitement of the crowd. With songs like 'You Give Love A Bad Name', 'Always' and, one of my personal favourites, 'It's My Life', it's hard not to!

Throughout the night they played songs old and new, and it was a perfect way to spend an evening of exciting music. The finale was, unsurprisingly, 'Livin' On A Prayer'. My mum was honestly disappointed because Jon Bon Jovi brought out his acoustic, and started singing calmly. Although she loves the acoustic version, she really wanted me to see him play the original.

Well... That she got. Halfway through, the sound changed completely, and the original took form. Our night was complete; a taster of the acoustic, a dance together to the original!

Honestly, it was a spectacular performance. The scenery was interesting - a huge car frame with a big screen above (as seen here) - and, although it was disappointing that Richie Sambora wasn't there, the guitarist who stepped in was equally as talented. They should be proud of their performance, because, in all, I won't be forgetting that night for a long time to come.

What About Now, Bon Jovi?

(Found in the depth of my computer!!!! I have catching up to do!)

If you haven’t heard of Bon Jovi then there is clearly something wrong with your connection to the world of music! Ever since the 80s when they made it big, they have had a huge influence on the rock world of music. Their latest release, ‘What About Now’, precedes their Greatest Hits, and has already made a hit.

It’s clear to everyone now that, sadly, their ‘Livin’ On A Prayer’ days are over. (Is it a wonder really? No one could ever beat that!) However, they certainly improved from their rather disappointing release ‘The Circle’. Nothing ever stood out to me on that album, but on this one there are definite signs of development.

‘What About Now’ immediately wins the battle between the two because they have their sound back. ‘The Circle’ just didn’t portray the sound that makes Bon Jovi them, which is probably why the CD didn’t stand out. It lacked their personal character. ‘Because We Can’, the opening track of their current album, holds their more modern sound nicely, post ‘Have A Nice Day’. There are obvious differences in their sound, but overall it is recognisable and enjoyable.

I am sad to say that their ‘hit’ days are over, and it is clear that they have reached their peak with song writing, but nevertheless that doesn’t mean that their music isn’t enjoyable anymore. My mother, for instance, still holds a strong love for them that will continue forever (believe me, it will.), and I am sure their fan base will not by any means give up on the band, even with the departure of lead guitarist, Richie Sambora. I’m sure their upcoming tour will still be as highly successful as ever, and the fans will not let Jon Bon down!