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Classic Album Review

Classic Review: Cilvia Demo by Isaiah Rashad

Album cover for Isaiah Rashad's Cilvia Demo

ALBUM: “Cilvia Demo” by Isaiah Rashad

RELEASE YEAR: 2014

LABEL: Top Dawg Entertainment

BEST TRACKS: “Ronnie Drake”, “West Savannah”, “Soliloquy”, “Heavenly Father”

FCC: Every song

When Isaiah Rashad signed a deal with Top Dawg Entertainment in 2013, he had big shoes to fill. After all, this is the same record label that’s home to hip-hop heavyweights like ScHoolboy Q and Kendrick Lamar. Would he live up to the hype?

His 2014 debut proved that he could, in fact, hold his own. Cilvia Demo established Isaiah Rashad as an artist capable of coming as hard as Q while being as introspective as Kendrick. As a Chattanooga native, Zaywop brought a Southern flair to the TDE lineup – something that the West Coast-based label was previously lacking.

Cilvia Demo that explores the ups and downs of Rashad’s adolescence. Some common themes include a desire for guidance and lack thereof: On “Soliloquy”, he boldly claims “I left my daddy ‘round ‘97, he was lazy.” Considering he was 6 at the time, it’s more likely that his father left him. As a result of this estrangement, he turns to religion on the track “Heavenly Father”, but finds few answers there. On “Ronnie Drake”, Isaiah meditates on the Black experience in America: “Came a long way from a boat and an auction/Now we got names and a vote, then a coffin/Ain’t s— change but the coast we adopted.” Of course, he wouldn’t be a rapper if he didn’t indulge himself now and then, and tracks like “Webbie Flow (U Like)” and “Modest” prove he can brag with the best of them.

Isaiah Rashad is a breath of fresh air in TDE’s ever-expanding lineup of artists. His debut, Cilvia Demo, is a woozy blend of depressive introspection and aggressive slick talk perfect for a night drive or blowing up the aux. I recommend this project to fans of Mick Jenkins, EARTHGANG, and Smino.

– DJ Mango

Categories
Miscellaneous

Spooky Season

Spooky Season

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, its spooky season!!! Now, here in The Saw’s Butcher Shop, it’s always spooky season, but since October is the month where being spooky is culturally acceptable, let’s talk about some TV shows and movies that will get you into the spirit of Halloween! I watch scary tv shows and movies any time of the year but it’s especially great to watch when it is spooky season. They always get me into the Halloween spirit. I will be listing some of my favorite things to watch that are sure to have you singing “This is Halloween!” 

Movies: 

  • The Nightmare Before Christmas 
  • Corpse Bride 
  • Halloweentown 
  • Butterfly Kisses 
  • Any of the Saw movies 
  • Halloween
  • Nightmare on Elm Street
  • Scream
  • House of 1000 Corpse
  • The Conjuring 
  • The Grudge
  • The Ring 
  • Hocus Pocus
  • Beetlejuice 
  • The Addams Family
  • The Shining 
  • Hereditary 
  • Midsommar 
  • The Haunted Mansion
  • The Exorcist 
  • Carrie 
  • Us
  • The Lodge 
  • The Nun
  • IT
  • Holidays 
  • Drag Me To Hell
  • Evil Dead 
  • Insidious 
  • The Autopsy of Jane Doe 

 TV Shows: 

  • American Horror Story
  • The Exorcist 
  • The Walking Dead 
  • The Twilight Zone
  • Goosebumps 
  • Chilling Adventures of Sabrina 
  • Supernatural 
  • Ratched 
  • The Haunting of Hill House 
  • Two Sentence Horror Stories 

What are some of your favorite things to watch during Halloween?

Stay Metal,

THE SAW

Categories
Band/Artist Profile

Artist of the Week: Doja Cat

Doja Cat

Doja Cat is one of my favorite artists at the moment. She is so unique and talented and has her own signature sound and style that makes her stand out from other artists. I found Doja Cat through my best friend. She absolutely loves her, and she showed me Doja Cat’s song, Casual. I instantly loved her voice and her vibe. She is a bad bitch and she knows it. When listening to Doja Cat, all of her songs have a different vibe. There is never a dull moment while listening to her because she always brings something new to the table. She experiments with different beats and her lyrical flow is impressive. And don’t get me started on her music videos… THEY ARE ICONIC!!!! She doesn’t do the basic type of music videos, she adds her own spin to it; whether that be being a cat (Rules) , in love with a robot (Cyber Sex), a ‘70s throwback (Say So), and looking so elegant while in a pool of milk (Streets). She is so creative and you can see that with her music, videos, and style. Not only do I love her music, but her content on Twitter and Instagram is hilarious! She is 100% herself and is unapologetic with it. 

Doja Cat (Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini) was born on October 21, 1995 and was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She began making and releasing music on SoundCloud as a teenager. At the age of 17, she signed a joint record deal with RCA Records and Kemosable Records. Doja Cat achieved viral recognition for her music video, “Mooo!,” which is iconic, 10/10. She also gained attention with her songs on TikTok because of the dances that people would do to her songs. 

Discography: 

Amala (2018)

Hot Pink (2019) 

Favorite Songs: 

Say So

Rules

Streets

Tia Tamara

Juicy 

Freak

Casual 

Like That 

What are some of your favorite songs by Doja Cat? 

Stay Metal, 

THE SAW 

Categories
Classic Album Review

Classic Review: Acid Rap by Chance the Rapper

Acid Rap by Chance The Rapper

It’s May of 2013. “Time for school, honey!” Your mother calls from downstairs. You get dressed, pairing one of your five T-shirts with one of your three pairs of basketball shorts. Your Nintendo DS is fully charged and you’re off for another day of eighth grade. Unbeknownst to you, Chance the Rapper has just dropped his sophomore mixtape, Acid Rap, which would later be certified Diamond on DatPiff.com.

For me, middle school was a time before I had any aesthetic taste of my own. My musical palette consisted of alternative and other dad-rock my father listened to when I was growing up – that was, until I heard Chance the Rapper’s Acid Rap on accident. I remember hearing “Cocoa Butter Kisses” for the first time and being put off by Chance’s raspy voice and trademark “IGH!” ad-lib. But I would not be writing this today if Acid Rap had not grown to become one of my most cherished hip-hop projects to date.

From the very first track, “Good Ass Intro”, Chance the Rapper exudes charisma. Over an equally upbeat instrumental, he establishes himself as the lovable class-clown type that you can’t help but root for. He brings the same energy on tracks like “Pusha Man”, “Juice”, and “Favorite Song”.

However, it’s not all fun and games in Chance’s world. Coming from Chicago’s south side, it is clear that he’s seen his share of terrible things: according to the hidden track “Paranoia”, “Down here, it’s easier to find a gun/Than it is to find a f—— parking spot”. Chance further reflects on the violence he grew up around on the track “Acid Rain”, where he recalls witnessing the murder of his best friend.

While Acid Rap does have its depressive lows, it is clear that Chance chooses joy in spite of them. The confluence of hip-hop, jazz, soul, and Chicago juke music convey a sense of unstoppable excitement that is reflected in Chance’s off-the-wall approach to rapping. Though some tracks pale in comparison to others, this mixtape has a charm that few other records possess. If I were to pinpoint a single project that got me into hip-hop music, it would be Chance the Rapper’s Acid Rap.

 Favorite Tracks: Cocoa Butter Kisses, Juice, Interlude (That’s Love), Acid Rain

– DJ Mango

Categories
New Album Review

Dreamland Review

Glass Animals - Dreamland

My favorites: Hot Sugar, Space Ghost Coast to Coast, Helium 

Listen if you like: Goth Babe, Phantogram, Washed Out 

After the release of the single tracks which teased the release of Glass Animals’ album, Dreamland, fans were eager to hear the newest album. Initially set to release July 10th, the album was actually released on August 7th. As a listener, I’ve enjoyed the band’s past two albums and have awaited the release of Dreamland for at least four years. You can check out my initial reaction to the single releases on my first blog post about the band here. 

The expectations I formed based upon the initial single releases led me to infer the album’s meaning and purpose. Glass Animals frontman Dave Bayley reflects in the “Dreamland” track on the uncertainty of life and how the pandemic has had an effect on the band; and additionally these emotions were heightened following drummer Joe Seaward’s biking accident in 2018 which deeply affected all the band members. Not only does the album follow this theme, the “Dreamland” single hints at another theme for the album: “You’ve had too much of digital love/You want everything live, you want things you can touch.” The album focuses on a longing for the era of the 90s (indicated by the album art) where technology and screens had less of a pull on the general public. Both uncertainty and an anti-technology stance pepper the album’s lyricism. In “Tangerine,” Bayley teases the song’s subject for losing themself: focused on money and taking “aerial photos of you and your smoothie.” The album additionally furthers the nostalgic 90’s vibe with interspersed samples of old home movies, the ringing of a corded home phone, and references to holographic glasses, GTA, and Dr. Dre. 

Though the album provides a few great new tracks, there is very little variation from their usual sound. I definitely expected more variety to the likes of the single “Tokyo Drifting” featuring experimental melody and a feature by Denzel Curry. As a Gen-Z, I am unimpressed by the attempts to channel nostalgia by bashing modern life and technology; though I’m sure this would have more impact on someone raised in the 90’s or earlier. Though I don’t love this album, I do look forward to what’s next for the band. 

– Miranda

Categories
Miscellaneous

Covid-Friendly Fall Activities

COVID Friendly Fall Activites

This fall, celebrations of the season will look much different due to the ongoing COVID pandemic, which in North Carolina means continuance of Phase 2.5 which requires individuals to wear masks or other face coverings when social distancing is not possible. Despite restrictions, there are many ways for all of us to enjoy the season, engage in physical activity, and get out of the house while remaining safe. 

Apple Picking 

This year, COVID has caused a cancellation of the N.C. Apple Festival, but many apple orchards across the state are still open. Be sure to check online if you need to book an appointment, as many orchards are by appointment-only to manage crowds and ensure social distancing. 

Scavenger Hunts 

Organizing and completing a scavenger hunt for family or whoever you’re quarantining with can be a fun change of pace, especially if you’re living with younger children. The CDC posted a guide on how to host your own at-home scavenger hunt. 

Pumpkin Patches 

An online search can lead you to a pumpkin patch near you! Pumpkin patches are usually housed in large outdoor spaces where social distancing is made easy. Some also have corn mazes available, but be sure to book an appointment before you head out. Remember to take precautions including using hand sanitizer and wearing masks while you’re out and about. 

Leaf Watching 

Across North Carolina, trees are beginning to shed their leaves and turn from green into beautiful reds, oranges, and yellows. Viewing the leaves is pandemic-friendly as you can easily appreciate the view from your car or bike. Enjoy watching all the colors change, bonus if you bring your family or roommates with you. 

Hiking 

Soaking in the fresh autumn air and viewing the scenery is a perfect way to enjoy the season. Hiking means getting out of the house and getting active with an added bonus of wildlife and leaf viewing. Consider taking a short day trip to a hiking destination of your choice. There are plenty of hiking trails in N.C. that feature beautiful waterfalls, mountains, and other amazing scenery. I recommend bringing a Buff, bandana, or other face covering that you can easily cover yourself with if you come across other hikers. 

Biking 

Information about many different biking trails around Raleigh can be found on the AllTrails app or website. The Walnut Creek trail is one of my favorite biking trails near Raleigh, for a short or lengthy bike ride depending on your preference. Additionally, the park at the North Carolina Museum of Art is a short ride which features outdoor art exhibits for your viewing pleasure. 

Baking 

Fall is the perfect time to break out the flour and eggs and work on your baking skills. Quarantine means more time at home, so you’ll likely have plenty of time to do quick baking prep and watch over your dessert creations. Lately, I’ve personally been trying my hand at making pies and pizzas with homemade crusts. It’s easier than it looks and so rewarding. Many grocery stores are offering curbside delivery or no-contact pickup, check in with your store to see if they are offering these services. 

Enjoy the season and be sure to take precautions and stay safe. Remember to carry PPE with you and wear a mask at all times when you are interacting with others. 

– Miranda

 Sources: nc.gov, Tina Ruff (Chief of Staff at Durham Tech)

Categories
Miscellaneous

Album Art Gems: Part 5

Negro Swan by Blood Orange album cover

Welcome to the grand finale of the Album Art Gems series! If you haven’t been keeping up, here are links to the first, second, third, and fourth installations. This has been such a fun blog series for me and I hope you all enjoyed reading it as much as I did writing it!

1. Negro Swan – Blood Orange

I literally can never get tired of looking at this cover. It is just absolutely exquisite. The way the winged model is posing out of the car is so elegant, and I love the minimal, organic color palette.

2. Currents – Tame Impala

I know this is very basic of me, but I couldn’t NOT include “Currents.” It’s an excellent allusion to the psychedelic covers so often found on 60s and 70s album art, which Tame Impala tends to channel in their music.

 

3. Wolf – Tyler, the Creator

In Part 4, I mentioned “IGOR,” but how could I only highlight just one Tyler album? The “Wolf” cover perfectly encapsulates his ridiculous and dark style of production. I love how it reminds me of a cheesy high school portrait from the 80s. The inhaler in his hand really tops it all off.

 

4. Melodies – Jan Hammer Group

This album is a recent discovery of mine, but I was blown away by the colors and composition of the cover. The ways in which the photos zoom in and are made up of multicolored line patterns are a type of unique that is rarely found in modern album art.

 

5. Getz/Gilberto – João Gilberto & Stan Getz

Last but not least, one of my favorite albums of all time, we have “Getz/Gilberto.” Seeing this cover is so nostalgic for me and brings back such fond memories of my childhood. The colors remind me of the warmth of a Brazilian jazz club in the 60s, which is always where I imagine myself while listening to it.

Happy listening!

– DJ butter

Categories
Playlists

Friday Favorites (10/2)

Friday Favorites

As a young art student, I was exposed to the first alternative music I’d ever heard through my teacher’s playlists during our classes. This week’s Friday Favorites are dedicated to (mainly) 90’s-00’s alternative music which reminds me of my entry into the artistic world. I still love to listen to these songs while creating content and working on projects. Hope you enjoy! 

Bad Timing – Bombay Bicycle Club 

One of my favorites from this band ever. Rich melody, lots of texture to the song. As a plus, the album art is one of the coolest designs ever. 

Clementine – Elliott Smith 

Soft vocal tones and beautiful acoustic guitar encompass this relaxing track, perfect for a rainy day of painting. 

Never Gonna Give You Up – The Black Keys 

This track features beautiful instrumentals, a catchy drum beat, and R&B style vocals and message. This song transports the listener right back to 60s jazzy R&B. 

Houdini – Foster The People 

A favorite from this band, the song Houdini encapsulates the best part of alternative indie rock. This track is sure to bring you into an upbeat and creative mindset in no time. 

Sleepyhead – Passion Pit 

Passion Pit fits better within the electronic/indie genre but nonetheless it is an important part of any art-making playlist. 

To listen to all of these songs and more, check out my playlist on WKNC’s Spotify. 

– Miranda

Categories
Playlists

Night of Fright Playlist

A perfect collection of non-traditional, mixed-genre ambient music for the month of October. 

  1. Skeleton Kiss – Fright by Christian Death 

  2. Season of the Witch by Lana Del Rey 

  3. Heads Will Roll by Yeah Yeah Yeahs 

  4. October by Broken Bells 

  5. No Rest for the Wicked by Lykke Li 

  6. Harsh Realm by Widowspeak 

  7. Baptism by Crystal Castles 

  8. Batcaves by Kap Bambino 

  9. Special Death by Mirah

  10. Witch by the bird and the bee 

  11. A Forest – Tree Mix by The Cure 

  12. I Put A Spell On You by Creedence Clearwater Revival 

  13. Don’t Look Back by Kissing Cousins 

  14. Do You by Carina Round 

  15. House of the Rising Sun by Lauren O’Connell 

  16. Venus in Fleurs by Grimes 

  17. Whales Tails by Cocteau Twins 

Listen to the playlist here. 

– Miranda

Categories
Playlists

Fall Favorites

Time to put on those faux fur Uggs and head to the nearest Starbucks for a pumpkin spice latte because it’s finally fall! Just kidding. Please don’t do either of those things. Instead, embark on an autumnal auditory adventure with this playlist of my fall favorites!

  1. September by Earth, Wind, & Fire: The 21st night of September marks the final day of summer in the Northern hemisphere, so this song is the perfect way to ring in the fall. I promise this is the last time I’ll be Septemberposting. Until next year.

  2. Autumn Leaves by the Bill Evans Trio: During his time in the Miles Davis Quartet, Bill Evans played an integral role in the recording of Kind of Blue, which is considered to be one of the most influential jazz albums of all time. Immediately after he recorded Portrait in Jazz with his own trio. Their rendition of the standard “Autumn Leaves” really captures the aura of the season with only the textures created by a piano, drums and upright bass.

  3. Where We Used To Live by the Esbjörn Svensson Trio: Following Bill Evans and company is the Esbjörn Svensson Trio with another jazz composition. Whereas “Autumn Leaves” portrays the warm, energetic side of fall, “Where We Used To Live” evokes feelings of melancholy and longing.

  4. Fall in Love by Slum Village: For this classic, J Dilla sampled Gap Manigone’s “Diana in the Autumn Wind”. The result was an intimate instrumental perfect for the Slum Village.

  5. Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground by The White Stripes: With this track, The White Stripes offer us a slightly more aggressive approach to the autumnal sound. It would be the perfect song for angrily raking leaves in your yard.

  6. Thriller by Michael Jackson: Of course, fall isn’t just pretty leaves and flannels. It’s also the spookiest time of the year, and there’s not a single song more synonymous with Halloween than Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”.

That’s the playlist! What are some of your favorite fall songs?

– DJ Mango