Category: DJ Highlights

Storytime with The Saw

This is going to be a story about how I got my first guitar pick. Now, this was a very important moment of my life because it was when I become a savage.

It was November of 2014, and my mom and I decided to go see Pop Evil in Fayetteville. They were having a free show, and it was almost my mom’s birthday, so we decided to go out and celebrate. The show was in the parking lot of a strip club, so you should know that this is going to be a good story when we’re jamming out in the strip club’s parking lot. Anyway, my mom and I were hanging out, chit-chatting with other people at the show. I got asked if I was going to go to the after party that would take place inside the strip club… I was shook. I literally wasn’t even 16 yet.

Pop Evil was my favorite band around this time and when they came on, I was jamming! I knew every word to every song that they had, and the bassist and vocalist shot me the goat (the rock symbol). Typically, at the end of a show, the band would throw things into the crowd (drum sticks, water bottles, set lists, towels, and guitar picks, etc.), the bass player looked dead at me AND THREW HIS PICK AT ME. I don’t have the best hand-eye coordination… so I didn’t catch the pick. BUT I did see where it landed, and I was determined to get that pick. Well homegirl in front of me saw the guitar pick too, and she decided she was going to bend down and pick it up. Not today! I ran towards the pick, saw a beer can on the pavement, kicked the beer can at her when she was bending down, and I dove head first for the pick (maybe a bit too dramatic, but come on… The Saw doesn’t half-ass anything). When I came back up, I came back victorious with the guitar pick in my hand. My mom saw the entire thing… and most parents would frown upon it, but not my mom. When I made eye contact with her, she had a huge smile on her face and her arms were wide open (que the song With Arms Wide Open by Creed) ready to embrace me in a hug. She yelled “MY BABY!!!” when I came up with the pick. She was proud of me for being a straight savage. If you ask her what her proudest moment of me is, she will tell you this story.

From that point on I have been a savage at shows, so watch out. I ain’t afraid to use a beer can if I have to.

* Me on the ground getting the guitar pick *

THE SAW 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year again! Festival season time!!! There have been a lot of festivals announced for this Spring/Summer and also a lot of great tours. Today, I will be giving you some pro tips and tricks as how to survive a metal show or festival. I have had my fair share of both metal festivals and indoor/outdoor metal shows. Whether you are a first-time goer or a veteran (like myself), it is always good to keep these tips in the back of your mind.

Tips and tricks to make your metal show experience better

What to bring:

Sunscreen

Okay, I know this one is obvious, BUT you won’t believe how many people I see that are sunburnt at festivals (myself included). If you’re going to a weekend festival, you really don’t want to get sunburnt on the first day because for the rest of the festival you will be in pain. If you have tattoos, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE USE SUNCREEN! WE DON’T NEED THOSE BAD BOYS FADING ON US, OKAY?

A water bottle 

It’s hot outside, you’ll be walking around, moshing, and rubbing up against people. You’re going to need some water. For one, it is very refreshing and two, we don’t need anyone passing out at a show. I know that at most festivals you can buy a water, BUT those are $$$$ and we are trying to save our cash money, so we can get some band merch. At Warped Tour and Carolina Rebellion, you can bring in a sealed water bottle with you. They have refill stations, so you don’t have to buy one of those expensive bottled waters. You’re welcome in advance.

A portable charger 

Let’s face it: We will all be taking pictures, videos, and snapchatting the festivals/shows for all of our friends to see. That can really take a toll on your battery. Instead of panicking and conserving your battery (which I suggest you be conservative with your phone life regardless), invest in a portable charger! They are very convenient, so when your phone is on low battery, you can just charge it up and still be able to use your phone! Some festivals are creating charging stations, and if the festival you are going to has that, I would hop on that before your phone dies.

If your phone does end up dying even with a portable charger (because those things die too), I would suggest writing down your friends’ numbers, so you can find them after the show. Or make a plan with them that after a band you all meet somewhere. This will help you have a less stressful night when trying to look for or get in contact with your friends. You’re welcome in advance.

A drawstring bag 

What are you going to put your sunscreen, water bottle, portable charger, band merch, keys, wallet, and sunglasses, etc. in? A bag of course! Who would want to carry all their stuff around? These are also very convenient for my homies who like to bring a lot of stuff with them to festivals (aka me). They can be a pain when walking around, crowdsurfing, and moshing but you will be able to have all of your stuff in one place. They also have drawstring bags from your favorite bands! You can also buy one from the festival itself! I wouldn’t suggest a backpack or a purse because some festivals (like the Carolina Rebellion) won’t allow it in. However, they do allow drawstring bags, so I would suggest purchasing one.

What to wear:

Ladies, I know that we all want to look cute when we are going out BUT at a metal show/festival, one can look cute but comfortable. Don’t wear something that you would hate to get ruined and for the love of metal, DO NOT WEAR A DRESS OR A SKIRT. If you are crowdsurfing, wearing one of these two options can leave you in a bad situation. People like to take cheap shots and it is far easier to take a cheap shot when someone is wearing a dress or a skirt. My go-to outfit for metal shows/festivals is either ripped jeans, or if its warm enough, high waisted shorts. I pair these with a brutal band shirt and tie it up so it looks like a crop top. Some girls will wear a bathing suit top, if you do this, make sure the back is tied really good unless you’re okay with your girls being out in the open. And also, don’t wear heels or flips. Basically, anything open toed isn’t going to be your friend at a metal show/festival. I would suggest wearing either sneakers, Vans, or combat boots. These will not only make it easier to walk but it will also keep your feet protected from mud, dirt, and other people stepping on them. But make sure you’re okay getting them dirty because it will happen.

Fellas, the only thing I can say to y’all is to wear sneakers, Vans, or combat boots. And to either wear jeans or if its warm enough, shorts. Some guys will wear basketball shorts and if you do, PLEASE wear compression shorts. Keep everything contained so you and others can enjoy the show. I don’t want to see you jumping around if you’re not wearing compression shorts underneath your basketball shorts. As far as shirts goes; bands shirts are great. Some guys also go shirtless but if you do, refer back to tip No. 1.

CAUTION!!!!! Do not and I repeat DO NOT wear a band shirt of the band that you are seeing. This is like an unspoken rule that metalheads know. We get it, you’re here to see that band. Guess what? SO AM I!!! I use shows as free advertisement for other bands. So, if we both like this band, you might like the band that I am wearing. The only band that you can see and wear their own merch is Metallica. Don’t @ me.

BONUS: Some people at festivals wear costumes and run around in them. These are very entertaining to see, and I GUARANTEE you will be in every picture. At some of the shows I have been to, some guy has dressed up like Jesus and will crowdsurf to the stage, and stage dive like he is being crucified. Another dude was dressed up like Moses and he would split the crowd for a wall of death (type of mosh pit where the crowd splits into two sides and then run towards each other), and act like he is parting the Red Sea. At the Carolina Rebellion, I have seen people wear horse masks, dress up like Power Rangers, hamburgers, hot dogs, and ketchup bottles.

What to expect:

There is a lot that goes on at metal shows/festivals, but I’m only going to name the main things that you need to be aware of when seeing bands.

There will be drunk/stoned people everywhere.

There will be crowdsurfers. Don’t whine and complain about crowdsurfers because no matter where you stand, there will always be someone going by you in the air or asking if you can lift them up.

There will be moshpits. These are what make metal shows. Again, don’t start whining and complaining about the pits. They will happen and if you don’t like it THEN GO TO THE DAMN BACK.

Given that some people will get mad about crowdsurfers and moshpits, don’t be surprised if they drop you when you go by crowdsurfing or try to fight you in the pit.

It will be crowded. Everyone is trying to get to the front and think they can push by you. It’s annoying but that’s the way it goes. Stand your ground and stick your elbows out while standing there when people go by. Make them fight for their spot in front of you. And for my homies trying to get to the front: Haul ass. Don’t stop for nobody.

Ladies, you will get hit on and people will flirt with you. It becomes the norm so just smile and wave when they cat call you from across the lawn.

There will most likely be a fight or two at the show/festival. Just stay out of the way and try not to get hit. If you’re the one in the fight just remember, we all have to either give or receive an ass whoopin’ ( at least) once in our lives.

Lots of boobs will be seen during the show/festival. Not only from girls, guys will get on their boy’s shoulders and flash the crowd. Also, if they are cocky, some people will strip. You have been warned.

Be safe and have fun moshing to your favorite bands!!

THE SAW

I have a pair of black combat boots that I have been wearing for years. These boots have seen so many shows and mosh pits, and have met tons of bands and cool people. There are dents all in them, the leather is ripped off, and they have dirt that has been collected from the past 4 years.

Today, I have retired these boots. They don’t support my feet anymore and when I step in a puddle, I now have to deal with a wet sock (which is not fun). Because I am retiring these bad boys, I have decided to write in the perspective of my trusty ole boots. These are some of the main experiences that I have had with my trustee boots.

RIP to the most reliable thing I have ever bought (besides my phone).

I was sent to North Carolina on a Fed Ex truck from New York. My owner bought me off of American Eagle’s website when she saw that they were having a 50% off sale on footwear (she’s cheap, I know). When I first got there, I was shiny, clean, and pretty. But soon, I became damaged from all the mosh pits and shows.

The day after I was at my new home, I was taken to Charlotte to see Parkway Drive. I was so excited to finally be going out into the world and experience new things. It was at that show that my owner got into a mosh pit and ended up ripping off a small piece of my leather. She also got a huge dent on my left side. It was as that moment that I became the show boots: The boots that will be worn at shows and that could get beaten up without a care in the world. I was okay with this though, I have gotten to see a lot of things because of my new title.

Fast forward to the Carolina Rebellion: I have survived 4 of these. How? I have no idea. From mosh pits, to mud pits, and dirt pits, I have seen it all. I have the battle scars all over me because of these pits. There is four-year-old dirt from the Rebellion that is still on me today. I witnessed crowd surfing for the first time when my owner’s mom made her crowd surf to Of Mice & Men. From that point forward I have crowd surfed to Wage War, Volumes, Chelsea Grin, Attila, August Burns Red, Issues, Gorija, Seether, Korn, Machine Gun Kelly, In This Moment, Voltbeat, Miss May I, Motionless in White, and Whitechapel.

I have also seen some crazy things in my day, like homeboy acting like a WWE performer and pulling an “RKO” his buddy. I have also seen a guy running around in a speedo with a horse mask, guys wearing banana costumes, and a dude who dressed up like Jesus and would crowd surf onto the stage, and then stage dive like he is being crucified.

I have traveled far and wide to see some great bands. Like going to DC to see King Diamond, or going to Atlanta to see Metallica, and traveling back to see Arch Enemy.

I have also met some bands in my day: Miss May I, Suicide Silence, Chelsea Grin, Volumes, Issues, Wage War, Attila, August Burns Red, Veil of Maya, Born of Osiris, Betraying the Martyrs, Signs of the Swarm, Traitors, Currents, Emmure, and After the Burial. I also met Jose Mangin (aka the person that my owner aspires to be like one day).

Upon A Burning Body 

Miss May I 

Currents 

Jose Mangin 

I’ve been to 100+ shows with my owner, met some of her favorite bands, crowd surfed plenty of times, interviewed bands, watched my owner become a badass Chainsaw Rock DJ on NC State’s college radio station WKNC, and made some great friends during it all. But unfortunately, my times has come to an end. I can’t protect my owner like I used to… her foot gets wet when she steps into puddles, and I don’t give enough support and protection to her feet. She has now “glowed up,” deciding not to be cheap – she got a pair of Harley Davidson Boots. You have some Big boots to fill my dude, I set the bar really high. I hope these boots get to experience everything that I have done with my owner; get to see all the ups and downs and enjoy the ride. She will wear you all the time and take you everywhere with her. So please, be good to her.

It’s been one helluva ride… but it’s time for me to say goodbye.

RIP 2014-2018

THE SAW 

What’s up guys! It’s your Master Butcher, The Saw, here, and I would like to welcome you to my Butcher Shop!

This past week and a half, I have done some reconstruction of my show on WKNC’s Chainsaw Rock. I wanted to make it more like an actual show, and have a theme. So, since I play some brutal metal, I needed a brutal theme. Ladies and gentlemen, this is how “The Butcher Shop” came to be. I am still going on air on Friday nights from 10pm-midnight, and you can listen to my show online here. Just click on “MP3” in the “High Quality” section to take part in the butchery in The Saw’s Butcher Shop.

Let me tell you all about the segments of The Butcher Shop. My “Diamond Cuts” are my Metalcore Essentials. I will still be playing my favorite bangers in this spot. The Diamond Cut Saw Blade is my favorite bone cutter; always clean and true. Obviously, it was a perfect fit for my Metalcore segment.

My next segment is my Death Row Cell Block for my homies in the Big House. Since my homies, personally, named this segment, Death Row Cell Block will continue to be this segments name and continue to be The Butcher Shop’s second of the night. I will be playing the chops that my homies have requested to be cut.

Out of my six segments a night, two of them are always new. These are butcher blocks that have certain themes (like songs that talk about flags and banners, bands that are from Australia, metal feels, and any other genre of metal that I decide to play, etc.).  When I introduce a new segment, I will introduce them as my “Choice Cuts,” the freshest selection of Grade A material. 

The next segment is “The Chopping Block,” which are my Death Metal Essentials” This segment gives you an image of what my butcher shop looks like (look at the picture above… I told you it was dark in here). I will be playing new death metal bands and the Old School bands that we all know and love to dissect.

And finally, the last segment of the night, when all the hacking, slicing, skinning, and cutting is done, we enter “The Meat Locker;” my Deathcore Essentials. This is my last segment of the night, so it would only make sense that the last stop on our tour is at my meat locker (BTW, there is no exit). I will be playing the heavy hitters that I have been listening to for the week. It’s a great way to end my show (and leave you… hanging).

Thank you for accompanying me on the tour of my Butcher Shop. Y’all hang tight (because you can’t leave, remember, there is no exit)! It is dark in here, so make sure you watch your limbs and count your digits while hanging around. I am looking forward to seeing you all every Friday night to hang (get it?!) with your favorite college radio DJ in The Saw’s Butcher Shop.

 Stay Metal,

THE SAW 

The first month of 2018 is almost out the door already, so it’s time to do a recap of some of the coolest releases of the new year! From the looks of it, 2018 is going to be a great year for some fresh sounds and unique styles. There are also some releases from December 2017, but they were just too good to leave behind. There’s quite a bit of diversity of sound in this list, so hopefully there will be something for everybody. Let’s discover some great music, shall we?

1. Cheetah Tongue – The Wombats

On January 17, The Wombats graciously gave us their third song release and opening track from their upcoming album Beautiful People Will Ruin Your Life (out February 9th). I may be a little biased since The Wombats are one of my favorite bands…but nonetheless, this alternative rock band definitely delivers with the catchy lyrics and upbeat tempo paired with soothing vocals and a dreamy sound. If you like this song be sure to look out for their new album!

Listen here! 

       2. Second Guess (feat. Anuka) – Khamsin

Moving on to some electronic music, artist Khamsin released this single on January 11, hopefully teasing a second album. The track stays true to Khamsin’s genius combinations of simpler instruments such as the electric guitar and piano with a powerful electronic chorus. The vocals are smooth but strong, and partner beautifully with the verses and pre-chorus. If you like this song, you should definitely check out Khamsin’s first album, Leaving (2016).

Listen here! 

       3. Lovespell – Ben Rosett, Eternity Forever

If you’re looking for a new addition to your Math Rock playlist, this track is definitely a winner. The song stays true to its name, incorporating two guitars to carry the song’s sweet and uplifting sound. It was released on January 1st as a single, but from the looks of their past work, there’s a lot more to come. Ben Rosett/Eternity Forever make some great Math Rock, so give them a listen if you enjoy this song!

Listen here! 

       4. Myrmidon – Ark Patrol

When I first heard this song, I was blown away by how strange but good it was! It’s a slow electronic melody, but the mixed verbal and nonverbal vocals are what really dominate the song. The various background notes/effects with psychedelic tunes really make it one of a kind. The track was released as a single on January 4th. If you’re looking to expand the horizons of your music experience, you should give this song a shot. 

Listen here! 

        5. Upside Down – Oliver Tree  Single – Jan. 5, 2018

Fast-paced and full of energy, this track is a lot of fun to listen to. With an indie sound and electric twist, this could be a great pump up/party song. There’s so many sounds and beats that work really well together and are great to dance to.  The single came out on January 5th as his eighth released track. This song put me in a great mood after listening, so hopefully it will do the same for you!

Listen here!

         6. Lights Go Down – Zeds Dead, Jauz

Zeds Dead, the kings of late night driving music, have done it again along with Jauz in creating a track still faithful to the Zeds Dead sound we love. The bass is out of control and the light saber sounds are on point. Every segment of the song sounds great in my opinion, the drop lead up being my favorite. This single was released on December 26, but it’s definitely worthy of making it into 2018.

Listen here!

          7. Rude. – Kaleidoscope – EP Love and Sorrow – December 28, 2017

It’s amazing how true to its name this song is. It’s very hard to describe or categorize, but I would say it borders Lo-fi and electronic music. The melody is somber and beautiful, and the steady beat echoes softly into the music, creating a very peaceful and (may I say) introspective experience. Artist Rude. released this track along with their EP Love & Sorrow on December 28, so there’s more where this came from!

 Listen here!

           8. Coexist – Me(:)i

Need a new addition to your Lo-fi playlist? Here you go! It follows the usual Lo-fi formula, except this song draws from the experience of relaxing at the beach. The light seagull sounds, water drops, and the sound of the waves in the background make the track really enjoyable. This is definitely a song for relaxing, studying or falling asleep. It was released on December 28, and is Me(:)i’s second single.  

 Listen here!

           9. No Surrender Playing With Fire – Hyper

Progressive electronic music is embodied within this track, bringing such fresh sound that I got really confused about exactly where to categorize this song in my brain. Thinking about it, I feel like the electronic sound could be easily replaced with electric guitar and sound great as well. My point is that if you’re into rock music, this might be a good song to try out. The track is included on Hyper’s EP called The Adventures of the Android Kid – Part 2, released on Christmas Eve.

 Listen here!

           10. Flute Loop (ft. Ouici) – Keys N Krates, Ouici

The song took a few times of listening before it grew on me, but now I really appreciate the music along with the clever name. It’s great for expanding your music horizons, since it keeps most of the elements of trap music but adds some really innovative effects. It was released as a single on Christmas.

 Listen here!

Honorable Mentions:

1. All Your Love – Max Styler  – Single – Released Jan. 5, 2018

Listen here! 

       2. Lift – Oblyx – Single – Released Jan. 1, 2018

 Listen here! 

I’m really looking forward to 2018 and all the new sounds, bands, and sub-genres it will bring. Discovering those hidden gems is what I am aim to do so I can share them all with you! If you enjoyed at least a couple of the songs on this list, then my goal has been achieved! Make sure to look out for next month’s new releases…The Wombats album will be out so it should be good. 🙂

Written by Angela Fluett

The life of a metalhead can be difficult sometimes. There are some things that we just struggle with, such as finding fellow metalheads, figuring out which band is your favorite, when you rust in the shower because you’re so metal, and clothing attire. Nothing bothers my OCD more than wearing all black but different shades of black (trust me, it happens often). I am going to give a few problems that the majority of metalheads go through. You will be able to relate to these things; trust me.

1. Getting dirty looks in public because of your band shirt.

This is the look I get all the time when I’m wearing a band shirt (which is almost all the time). I don’t know, what is the big deal, if I’m wearing a shirt that has a bloody torso on it out in public? It’s my casual wear!!! Some of the shirts that I have you can’t even read the name of the band. I like those looks because people try so hard to read my shirt. Jokes on them because I can’t even read my shirt either, so please don’t ask me what it says. If I’m at a metal show we bond over our metal shirts and it is a form of mating call for me. When I see someone wearing a band shirt, I automatically go up to them and tell them I like their band shirt. So don’t worry, if you see me out in public and you’re wearing a band shirt, you will get a very excited look, instead of a dirty one.

2. People who think metal and screamo are the same thing.

DO NOT COME UP TO ME AND SAY I LISTEN TO SCREAMO BECAUSE I WILL LITERALLY LOSE MY MIND!!!!!! Yes, there is a genre called screamo, but what I listen to is not screamo. There is all types of metal that cross cultures and different styles. For example, Metalcore isn’t the same as Deathcore, Nu Metal isn’t the same as Djent Metal, Stoner Metal isn’t the same as Groove Metal, and Heavy Metal isn’t the same as Death Metal. I understand that some people don’t understand the different types of metal, and that’s fine. But don’t quantify everything as “screamo” and then agrue with me that metal is all the same. Because it isn’t.

3. When people think you don’t qualify as a metalhead because you don’t look like the average metalhead.

Before I got tattoos, I didn’t look like a metalhead at all. But now, I kinda fit “the look” of a metalhead. You know… long hair, band shirts, ripped jeans, black finger nails, combat boots, leather jacket, and tattoos. When I was in high school, I wore band shirts but I didn’t really “look” like a metalhead. Here’s the thing with metal and music in general, you can be anything you want to be and look like anybody you want. Music doesn’t judge. Every once in a while, I get the “you listen to metal? But you look so sweet!” * Insert eye roll here * Since I’m a girl, some people don’t believe that I am a true metalhead. But they can all think what they want. I have met and seen more bands than they ever have. * flips hair *

4. Having no one to go to metal shows with because none of your friends listen to metal.

I have never related to anything so much in my life. None of my friends in high school or college listen to metal so when I fan girl about my favorite bands coming to town they just look at me like I’m crazy. They also don’t understand the band names like Dying Fetus, Cannibal Corpse, Analepsy, and Upon A Burning Body, etc. BUT I have met some friends at shows (what up Nate, Jake, Josh, Justin, Eric, Amie, and Savannah?!) Every time I go to a show, one of them is always there. I have met some of my best friends at metal shows and I am grateful for every single one of them. Have no fear my fellow metalheads, if none of your friends from school/work listen to metal, just make some friends at shows. They are literally the best.

5. People mistaking you as a “Satanist.”

Yes, because I listen to metal, I want to burn down churches and draw pentagrams on everything. NO I DON’T WANT TO DO THAT!!! Just because I listen to “darker music” doesn’t mean I worship the devil. Yes, some metal bands do talk about satanic stuff but that doesn’t mean I believe in it. Believe it or not, some metal is positive and talks about personal problems. Metal is an outlet and it really helps people get through things in their lives. I haven’t listened to any other type of music that I relate to as much as metal.

6. Being a girl and seeing male metalheads that have nicer hair than you. 

Okay, this just isn’t fair. Like why do y’all have to have better hair than me? It always looks good and luxurious; how does this happen? It is rare that I see guys with nice hair, and if you are a guy with nice hair and tattoos (like the one pictured above), WHERE DO I FIND YOU?!

7. Dreaming of only dating a metalhead because they are the only ones that understand your love for the music.  

This picture describes me perfectly when trying to talk to a guy. I honestly believe that my husband has to be a metalhead (or be open to the idea of listening to metal) because I’m in too deep with the music. The first question I ask a guy is “what type of music do you like?” I’m usually shocked if they do say metal. I only meet metal guys at shows, if I randomly meet one not at a metal show I am ~~~SHOOK~~~ It would be weird to not date a metalhead because I will drop everything to go to a show. I’m always at shows and I will never give that up.

8. When you can’t find your black band shirt in the pile of black shirts.

Do you know how difficult it is to find a specific band shirt when every shirt in your wardrobe is black and/or is full of other band shirts? IT IS REALLY DIFFICULT!!!! Like I will be looking for my Whitechapel shirt and I will pull out my Suicide Silence shirt. Yeah, I like my Suicide Silence shirt, BUT I WANTED MY WHITECHAPEL SHIRT AND IT IS REALLY DIFFICULT TO FIND WHEN EVERYTHING IS BLACK. I have a struggle every day because of this. It will never get easier.

9. When your friends invite you to a party but you don’t want to go because you know you will hate the music.

This is me during any social interactions at anything other than a metal show. I will go to parties with my friends and I see everyone dancing and I just stand there confused. I can’t headbang to this. I can’t even mosh to this. How is this fun? I just don’t understand. Someone please explain this to me… looking for a friend.

10. When none of your nonmetal friends understand metal memes.

This should be self-explanatory. Metal memes are great and I can only send them to certain people because the majority of the people I know will be so confused. I think metal memes are the best and some are the dankest. If you have any metal memes, send them my way. I love memes.

THE SAW  

10. Chelsea Grin Self Inflicted Tour  

I was super excited about this sow because I have been wanting to see Chelsea Grin for so long! I got a VIP ticket so I could meet the band before the show. They are really nice guys and hilarious. The show was one of my favorites because the crowd was insane!! All of the bands were great and they all put on one helluva show. 

9. Born of Osiris The New Reign Tour Part II 

This was my third time seeing Born of Osiris and I am really impressed by them. They have improved on their stage show over the years. This was a very exciting show because I reunited with my Carolina Rebellion squad and we all had a great time. I got to meet the singer for Born of Osiris and I got to hang out with Myke Terry from Volumes again! I also met the singer and one of the guitarist for Betraying the Martrys. During Betraying the Martyrs’ set, the guitarist gave me a guitar pick and I also caught the drum stick! I had a great time seeing some of my favorite bands and catching up with some friends.

8. Attila Let’s Get Abducted Tour

If you haven’t seen Attila live, you are missing out!! The first time I saw Attila was at Warped Tour of 2015 and they were even better at their own headlining tour. They have an incredible live show. The whole entire band is interactive with the crowd and there was never a dull moment at all! All of the other bands put on a great show, the crowd was moshing the entire time! I met Attila and it was my first time getting VIP for any show. The band are super chill and really nice guys. Any time Attila is in North Carolina, I will always go and see them.

7.  After The Burial Carry The Flame Tour

This was my third time seeing After The Burial and they are one of my favorite bands. Their songs are bangers and they put on a great show. I also got VIP for this show and met After The Burial and Emmure. Both bands were nice and really cool. I talked to After The Burial’s lead singer for a good 20 minutes. We talked about bands and just random things. The show was AWESOME!! All the bands were insane and I got a guitar pick during After The Burial’s set. Fit For a King become one of my favorite bands when I saw them at this show and I caught a drum stick. Fit For an Autopsy also became one of my favorites after seeing them. This was a great show and I’m glad I bought tickets on a short notice.

6.  Suicide Silence The Cleansing 10 Year Tour

This show really surprised me!! I was mainly there to see Upon A Burning Body and Slaughter To Prevail. But… Slaughter To Prevail couldn’t make it because their visa’s were messed up. I met Upon A Burning Body and hung out with them during the show. The local band was great and Prison was impressive. Suicide Silence also impressed me. I have a new respect for Suicide Silence now. I will never forget this night. I did an entire show review for this show, go check it out!

5. Wage War Deadweight Part 2 Tour  

I went to this show out of nowhere!! I had an exam the next day but I knew if I didn’t go that I would regret it. Varials and Gideon were really good, and the crowd was rowdy for these two bands. When Wage War came on, the crowd exploded!!! This was a sold-out show and the entire crowd was a mosh pit. I had so many bruises after this show, but it was worth it. This was my fourth time seeing Wage War and they never disappoint me. I met some of the members after the show too! Go to my show reviews to check out the entire review.

4. Whitechapel Decade of Defilement Tour

For those of you who don’t know, Whitechapel is one of my favorite bands of all time. I got my DJ name (The Saw) from my favorite song, The Saw is the Law. I got a video of Whitechapel saying they loved me and I caught a guitar pick from their guitarist Zach. The show was crazy, it was a brutal night filled with deathcore bands. I was really impressed with Carnifex. The crowd went crazy for them and they really do know how to put on a show. Whitechapel was amazing, like always, and I loved every moment of it. Phil can still do his gutturals like a pro and it was great. For more information about the show, go check out my show reviews.

3. Miss May I Shadows Inside Tour

Miss May I is also one of my favorite bands and they also put on a great show. I got VIP for this show too and I got to meet them for the second time! They are such nice guys and I love catching up with them! They put on a great show. I was singing and jamming out the entire time! The crowd was really rowdy during this show, too! Their drummer, Jerod, gave me their set list and I have it in my book of shows. Upon A Burning Body was also here, and we already know how I feel about them. We should all know by now that I love Upon A Burning Body so I don’t need to go into how much I was jamming to their set. I did meet their bass player, Joe, who is now one of my good friends. I also met the band, Currents and they are really nice guys. I was really impressed by them and I would love to see them again soon! This show was really special to me because it was my first after I graduated high school.

2.  Carolina Rebellion 

Now, the Carolina Rebellion has a special place in my heart. I love the Rebellion so much. Going in 2014 helped me fall in love with metal all over again. So I am really grateful for this festival. I reunited with my Carolina Rebellion squad and we had a blast!! I made some new friends and had a great time. The bands were also really good. I am happy that I got to see Chris Cornell live before he passed away. All of the bands that I saw put on a great show and I had a blast all three days. If you haven’t been to the Carolina Rebellion, you are really missing out on a great time. I met the host of Sirius XM Liquid Metal Jose Mangin, Myke Terry from Volumes, and Machine Gun Kelly. Just the experience of going to the Rebellion and hanging out with old friends, making new friends, and just being surrounded by people who love the music makes the weekend worth it.

1. Metallica Worldwired Tour

It’s Metallica. Enough said. I have always wanted to see Metallica and they didn’t disappoint me at all! Me and my mom went to Atlanta to see them and it was a great mother-daughter road trip! Metallica played some of my favorite songs such as For Whom The Bells Toll, Seek and Destroy, and One. They were jamming!! There were so many mosh pits and I’m glad I bought pit tickets! I saw Avenged Sevenfold and Volbeat at the Carolina Rebellion and they really impressed me! So, seeing them again with Metallica was great! I made some friends that I still talk to today. This was the best show that I have been to this year and I am so happy that I got to see Metallica for the first time! 

The SAW 

Hey WKNC fam and friends, I’m DJ Atomic Man! Hope the holiday season is starting off right. I know that, for a lot of us, we’ll spend a lot of time driving or flying this time of the year. Thought I would compile a varied list for those of you who need some new and old tunes to purchase, gift, or listen to on spotify!

N.A.S.A- The Spirit of Apollo 

Produced by N.A.S.A. under the Anti- label, this has album so many unique collaborations. I would describe it as a hip hop album that pulls from a lot of different genres. It might be too eclectic for some, though. My fave song off the album is “Way Down” (featuring RZA, Barbie Hatch, & John Frusciante), it’s an interesting fusion of rock, hip-hop, and some funk. Here is a very abbreviated list of some of the collabs on this album: M.I.A., Santigold, Lykke Li, Kanye West, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Method Man, Del the Funky Homosapien, and Gift of Gab! Really great stuff. You should check it out if you want to explore some different sounds in hip hop.

Elia y Elizabeth – La Onda de Elia y Elizabeth (2014)  

Elia and Elizabeth were born in the capital of  Colombia during the 1950s. They grew up listening to Jimi Hendrix and the Beatles. This album compiles a lot of their best hits from the 60s and 70s. It’s a calm and happy album that is  reminiscent of a 1960s psych pop album. It translates directly to The Wave of Elia and Elizabeth and was released under the Vampi Soul label in Spain. Make sure to check out the song “Soy una Nube”. It Translates to I Am a Cloud. Great album for those of you who need to relax this season.

Thee Oh Sees – Orc (2017)

Thee Oh Sees are a California band who have been releasing some psych garage rock over the years. This is their newest album released by the label Castle Face Records. It is a little bit heavier and rougher sounding than their previous stuff. I got to mosh for the first time at their concert and I could imagine some Orcs moshing to this album. The song “Nite Expo” is my favorite off the album. This would be a good album if you need to get pumped up!

Aphex Twin- Syro

Aphex Twin is a UK artist that is known for his experimental style of electronic music. His sound ranges from ambient, acid house, and industrial. This album uses a lot of synth sounds from ambient, techno, and acid house music but it might be too disjointed for some listeners. My favorite song on this is “aisatsana [102]”. Would recommend to those of you who aren’t afraid to try something new.

Cymande – Promised Heights (1974)

This is one of my favorite funk bands! This album was released by Janus Records and it pulls a lot of sounds from blues, rock, and soul music. My favorite song on this album is “Brothers On The Slide”. This song has powerful lyrics, a psychedelic guitar, some funky bass, and a grooving beat. It’s one of those albums that I come back to A LOT!! Would recommend to those of you looking for old gems.

Fatima- Yellow Memories (2014)

Fatima is an R&B queen from the UK. She pulls from electronica, funk, latin music, and soul in this album. It was released under Eglo Records. My favorite song on this album is “Circle”, featuring Shafiq Husayn. It’s a sweet song about the cycles of life and incorporates some funk sounds. Would recommend this to those of you looking for innovative artists.

Howie B.- Turn the Dark Off (1997)

Where do I begin!? Howie B. was a genius artist based out of the UK. His style of electronic music samples from so many different genres but all the sounds seem to meld perfectly. This album was released under Island Records. My favorite tune on this album is “Who’s Got The Bacon?”. It’s a timeless tune! In fact, I thought it had been released within the past 5 years when I first heard it. This album is for anyone trying to explore the roots of modern electronica.

-Daniel Marulanda (DJ Atomic Man) 

It’s that time of year again, where we count down our favorite things of the year while welcoming in the new year! I will be counting down my top 10 favorite albums that I have been jamming out to this year. I will be writing mini album reviews for all these records, you’re welcome. 2017 was a great year for metal, a lot of bangers and heavy hitters were released this year. Did any of your favorites make the list?

IMPORTANT!!!! I play these albums, along with many others, during my set on WKNC!! Come head bang with ya girl on Friday nights from 10pm-midnight! To listen online, go to WKNC’s website and click on “MP3” in the “High Quality” section. Don’t be lame, come hang out with The Saw!

10. Obituary –  Obituary

 

Obituary is a classic; I had to put them on my list. This self-titled album is the band’s 10th studio release. This album contains the best parts of Obituary that any fan will love. There is a good combination of great vocals, incredible drumming, and funky riffs that are just plain groovy. There are great things about each song on this record that make them  really unique. This whole album is a bop, if you haven’t checked this record out you really need to.

– Rating: 9/10

-Favorite song: Sentence Day

 9. Fit For An Autopsy – The Great Collapse

The boys in Fit For An Autopsy never disappoint me. Like any other Fit For An Autopsy record, their songs talk about problems in the world. For example, the song “Iron Moon” talks about how we all live to work and that we it should be the opposite: we work to live. There are other songs on this record that talk about more deeper problems. You don’t want to skip any of these songs, because they are all bangers.

-Rating: 8.5/10

Favorite Song(s): Heads Will Hang & Black Mammoth

8. Dying Fetus – Wrong One to F*** With

Would this even be a favorites blog if I didn’t write about Dying Fetus? This band is one of Death Metal’s finest and I absolutely love them. The song “Fixated on Devastation” gives you a taste of the entire album. This song is a mixture of how all the songs sound on this record. You have some groove and technical brutality with the drums and guitars that will have you ~~~SHOOK~~~ This band came out with a bang too because this is their first record in five years and it was well worth the wait. Their sound on this record is the same with their other records and hey, I’m not complaining about that.

-Rating: 9.5/10

-Favorite Song(s): Fixated on Devastation & Panic Amongst the Herd

7. FRCTRD –  Fractured

This deathcore band from France has really impressed me. I discovered them a couple of months ago and I was hooked. This is their first EP so go ahead and hop on the bandwagon now. This band is going to be big. They open up their EP with an instrumental track, which isn’t a surprise. But then they go full-on deathcore. The riffs are chunky, the breakdowns are heavy, and the vocals are strong. Holy pig squeals, dude. They talk about some world problems in their song “Crow,” which talks about the terrorist attack in Paris. This record will leave you breathless (no pun intended… even though they have a song called breathless).

-Rating: 9/10

-Favorite Song: Negative

6. Arch Enemy – Will To Power

Hey! I’ve done a full-length album review on this record already. The music on this record is really impressive and shows how gifted this band really is. Alissa’s voice is so strong and we can see how diverse she is with her vocals on this record. For example, in “Reason To Believe” she sings in clean vocals that are really beautiful. This record gives me 80’s vibes that I’ve been digging recently. Check out my full album on this record on WKNC’s website!! 

-Rating: 8/10

-Favorite Song: First Day in Hell

5. Slaughter to Prevail – Misery Sermon

It has been a good year for deathcore my dudes. This is the band’s first full-length album, and it is a beating. The main thing that makes this band distinct are the vocals. Alex Shikolai (Alex Terrible) has a very strong and brutal voice. He has some of the most powerful growls and screams that I have ever heard. This record is very powerful in all aspects that makes a great deathcore record. If you like Thy Art Is Murder, then you will love this band.

-Rating: 9/10

-Favorite Song: King

4. Currents – The Place I Feel Safest

It’s about time I put some metalcore on this list!! I discovered this band in June when I saw them on Miss May I’s Shadows Inside tour. And I must say, I am really impressed with this band. They are your typical metalcore band with the breakdowns and clean vocals, but they put their own style on each of their songs. This band has been around since 2013 and now they are coming on the scene. They are one of my favorite metalcore bands (they are also really nice, they gave me a sticker when I met them, and they follow me on Instagram). The vocals on each song are very strong and it shows the different depths that he can go to, it’s really impressive. The instruments on this record are also really impressive, I love the riffs and the breakdowns.

-Rating: 8.5/10

-Favorite Song: Night Terrors

3. Wage War – Deadweight

 

I swear, Wage War is going to be the next big thing. Just wait. This is the second album from these guys and it’s such a banger. This album has the best aspects of metalcore and what metalcore is. There are a lot of great breakdowns on this record that will make you want to get in a moshpit. The riffs are amazing and they are really chunky. That, I really enjoy. And don’t get me started on Briton’s voice… he has one of the best vocals in metalcore. During the breakdowns he will throw in a random “BLEIGH,” that makes me go C R A Z Y!!!!! Literally, there are so many songs that he does this on. The clean vocals are really good, and they transition really well. There are some slower songs on this record that make me go into my feels but hey, I’m not mad about it. There are also a lot of bangers on this record that will make anyone bang their head.

-Rating: 9.5/10

-Favorite Song(s): Stich & Gravity

2. Miss May I – Shadows Inside

You already know my boys in Miss May I are on this list. With that being said, I am biased when it comes to this band and to me, this band could never release a bad album. This record has a very positive, uplifting vibe to it. The melodies are really strong and thay will totally get stuck in your head. They really emphasize the elements that they are good at in this record. There are some great breakdowns, along with some really catchy riffs. OG and new Miss May I fans will enjoy this record. There are a lot of clean vocals in this album but they pull it off, the songs are all great, and there isn’t one that I would skip. There are slight moments in this record where you can hear how much strength that Levi has in his voice. He can do some great snarls and some pretty good gutturals that had me ~~~SHOOK~~~ They keep the metalcore genre interesting by doing different styles within their songs. I love it.

-Rating: 9/10

-Favorite Song(s): Swallow Your Teeth & Crawl

1. Thy Art Is Murder – Dear Desolation

And a deathcore album is in for the win!!!! If you haven’t listened to this record… WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! GO LISTEN TO IT RIGHT NOW!!! This has to be one of my favorite records of all time. Thy Art has stayed consistent with their overall sound only making a few minor adjustments that worked out for the better. In this record, you have blast beats and breakdowns for days. Don’t even get my started on CJ’s voice, it is so powerful and distinctive. With his vocals and the insane drumming technique, this record is an overall masterpiece. This album is an a complete heavy hitter and banger. It has the best elements of deathcore that just make me really, really happy. This record will not disappoint you, I promise.

-Rating: 10/10

-Favorite Song(s): Puppet Master & Dear Desolation

THE SAW