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Miscellaneous

Let’s Get Psyched About Reading: Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

 

Heartstopper is a graphic novel, written by Alice Oseman, that tells the story of two boys falling in love. The characters come from the author’s debut novel ‘Solitaire’. This previously online comic series serves as a way for the author to tell the backstory of the once minor characters. The story originated on tumblr and after the artist had a large amount of the story drawn out they were able to get it self-published right before it was picked up by a publisher. The story originated in Kent, UK but is now available in most places and on a website called Tapas.

This graphic novel is shaped largely around LGBTQ+ topics and currently consists of three book volumes, or 153 episodes (if you read it online). The author has published endless content around the story including Q and A’s, short stories, and even fan-fic like crossovers (including Harry Potter and Detroit Become Human). 

The story is centered around a boy in high school who was bullied a lot after accidentally being ‘outed’ to the school. He starts the story in a secret ‘relationship’ with a boy who is in the closet and openly dating a girl. The boy he is talking to treats him terribly so once Charlie meets Nick he decides he deserves better and cuts things off. Charlie and Nick met one day in class when they were assigned seats next to each other. Nick is a slightly older student and plays on the rugby team.They slowly become good friends and soon after they become best friends… until of course they catch feelings.

The art in this graphic novel is absolutely amazing. I find the simplistic nature beautiful and the artist’s unique ‘soft’ style really makes this story visually irresistible. The US edition comes in blue-green shades, but the artist’s work originated in gray-scale using only four tones. This story is full of variety including lots of LGBTQ+ representation and different experiences all of these characters have. There is love, support, hardships, communication and much more. We get the good sides of love and the harder sides: simpler experiences with coming out and harder ones. This story is one that a large and diverse audience is likely to find some aspect of relatable, this is why I find it the perfect story for anyone looking for a feelgood love tale.

Find the story online

Until next time,

Let’s Stay Psyched about Reading,

DJ Psyched

Categories
New Album Review

ALBUM REVIEW: Ocean Alley – Lonely Diamond

ALBUM REVIEW: Ocean Alley – Lonely Diamond

BEST TRACKS: Way Down, Infinity, Lonely Diamond

FCC clean

Formed by a group of friends in a backyard shed, this six-piece psychedelic funk rock band got their start playing local dive bars and house shows on the Northern coast of Sydney, Australia. 10 years later, here they are, touring all across Australia and Europe, selling out shows left and right, and playing festivals such as Lost Paradise and Soundsplash, and doing it all without a record label. It’s only a matter of time before this band starts making their presence known in the United States. Ocean Alley’s first album, Lost Tropics is youthful and beachy, their second album, Chiaroscuro is bluesy and mature, but Lonely Diamond, Ocean Alley’s third studio album, is absolutely dazzling mix of them both, taking the tropical, beachy energy of Lost Tropicsbut adding the maturity and pensiveness of Chiaroscuro to make Ocean Alley’s greatest album to date.

The first thing I noticed about this album is the incredible cleanness of the sound. The percussion is tight, the guitar is crisp, and lead singer Baden Donegal’s voice is smooth and clear. The production quality is impeccable, but if you’re used to only listening to fuzzier garage style rock, this album will definitely be a change of pace. However, an album doesn’t have to be fuzzy and chaotic to have energy. Lonely Diamond has more of a deeper, cooler intensity than what you would expect from an average psychedelic rock band. The riffs are often dark on slow, and pulling you repeatedly into crawling buildups that lead to immense, cathartic climaxes.

This entire album reminds me of the time I drove 10 hours straight through the night to New York by myself. It gives me a feeling of thrill and danger, but the knowledge deep down that everything is bound to be okay in the end, no matter where I end up, because life is good.

-Safia

Categories
Band/Artist Profile

Band of the Week: Bring Me The Horizon

The first time I heard of Bring Me The Horizon (BMTH) was years ago with their debut record, Count Your Blessings (2006), when my brothers would listen to it and I loved their sound.  I got to see BMTH once at the Carolina Rebellion and boy, let me tell you, they put on one hell of a live show. They probably have one of the best stage performances that I have ever seen.

Bring Me The Horizon is a British rock band formed in Sheffield in 2004. They signed to Columbia Records exclusively in the United States. The band released their debut album, Count Your Blessings in 2006. Their sound was new for listeners and they were met with critical disdain. Critics may not have liked their album, but I loved their heavy hitting, ass beating sound. Their second release, Suicide Season (2008), was a creative, critical, and commercial turning point for the band. With later releases, they changed their style with more influences from classical, electronic, and pop music. BMTH is easily one of the most musically diverse bands I have ever listened to. They have changed their sound so much over the years of their existence and they are the only band (in my opinion) that can change that much and still make great music. Even though I am a fan of BMTH from their album Sempiternal to their first release, they never fail to keep fans on their toes with their evolution. I am willing to bet that they can make any type of album, and it will be an awesome album.

BMTH’s earliest influences were bands like At the Gates, Carcass, Pantera, Metallica, Every Time I Die, and genres such as death metal, grindcore, and emo. Their sound has developed from that starting point and now are influenced by progressive rock, post-rock, dubstep, and electronic. With their changes in influences, it can be seen that BMTH has always attempted to grow and change with each album, believing that they should be different.

Current Members:

Oliver Skyes (vocalist)

Matt Kean (bass)

Lee Malia (lead guitar)

Matt Nicholls (drums)

Jordan Fish (keyboard)

John Jones (touring musician) (rhythm guitar)


Discography:

Count Your Blessings (2006)

Suicide Season (2008)

There Is A Hell Believe Me I’ve Seen It. There Is A Heaven Let’s Keep It A Secret (2010)

Sempiternal (2013)

That’s The Spirit (2015)

Amo (2019)


Favorite Songs:

Happy Song

Drown

Sleepwalking

Hosptial For Souls

Chelsea Smile

Pray for Plagues

Have you seen BMTH? What is your favorite song by them?

Stay Metal,

THE SAW

Categories
Band/Artist Profile

Artist of the Week: Mulatto

The first time I ever heard of Mulatto was one year ago when she released the music video for her single, B**** From Da Souf, and I absolutely LOVED it!!! Bad b**** music is my favorite type of music. Mulatto is so raunchy and real in her music and it’s a breath of fresh air to have someone playing the game like she is. I didn’t start listening to more of her music until recently and I wished I started listening to her sooner! She writes her own lyrics and her flow with lyrical word-play is so smooth! Her type of flow and style of vocals reminds me of how DaBaby writes and raps his music. Those two on a track would be fire!!

Alyssa Michelle Stephen born on December 22, 1998 is an American rapper professionally known as Mulatto. She chose this racial slur as her stage name because she is a mixed woman. Her mother is white and her father is African American. She wears her mixed race with integrity and lets everyone know where she comes from. She talks about her life being mixed in her songs claiming that she is “too white” or “too black” depending on who she is around and hangs out with.  When listening to Mulatto, you can hear the pain and struggles she had been through, especially on the song “No hook.” I love artists who are real in their songs and discuss things that they have been through and what is going on inside their head.

Stephens was born in Columbus, Ohio and moved to Georgia at the age of 2. She was raised in Clayton County, on the south side of Atlanta. She talks about where she comes from a lot in her songs. She is also repping the south side of Atlanta. In interviews, Mulatto has stated that where she grew up was in the country side and that they have a close community. While growing up, she used to go to and participated in drag racing. Mulatto started rapping at the age of 10 and she quit school later on in her life to focus on her music career.

In 2016, she became a contestant on the Lifetime reality show, The Rap Game, produced by Jermaine Dupri and Queen Latifah. This show was set up like a boot-camp where aspiring rappers would compete against one another for eight weeks. Mulatto was the overall winner of The Rap Game and was offered a recording contract from Dupri with So So Def Records but she turned down the deal claiming that it wasn’t enough money. She then decided and continues to be an independent artist. She talks about this event in her music as well, talking about why she didn’t accept the deal and honestly, I am proud of her for following her gut and doing what was best for her. She did not want to be consumed by the industry and she wanted to have control of her music and what she released.

Since being on The Rap Game, Mulatto has released albums, Eps, singles, and has some features with rappers that were on The Rap Game with her and also some other female rappers such as Saweetie and Trina. For an independent artist, she is killing the game and is making her name known. These past few years have been great for female rappers in the game and I can’t wait to see what they do next.

So, if you like boujee, confident, pretty girl music, then Mulatto is the girl for you!


Discography:

Miss Mulatto (2016)

Latto Let ‘Em Know (2017)

Mulatto (2018)

Hit the Latto (2019)

Big Latto (2019)


Favorite Songs:

He Say She Say

B**** From Da Souf

No Hook

Longway

See Sum

ATL Hoe

What is your favorite Mulatto song?

Stay Metal,

THE SAW

Categories
New Album Review

Album Review: JGM by Lemaitre

Album: JGM by Lemaitre

Best Tracks: Wondering If I’ll Ever Come Down, Eyes Wide Open, Stop Me Fast

FCC Violations: Eyes Wide Open, Stop Me Fast

Lemaitre is an electronic duo comprised of Norwegian artists, Ulrik Denizou Lund and Ketil Jansen. Their newest release, JGM, reflects on life’s ups and downs and the celebration of life. The electronic group switched things up in this EP, adopting an indie-pop style and an extensive use of organic instruments. JGM is inspired by Johannes “Joe” Greve Muskat, Lemaitre’s “third” member who passed in 2019. Even though the EP is based in sadness, all four songs in the collection celebrate life in a perfect way to pay homage to Muskat.

“Wondering If I’ll Ever Come Down” is the lead single and my personal favorite track. It has a more indie Grouplove vibe to me that reminds you to love the life you’re living, which is inspiring. “Eyes Wide Open” and “Stop Me Fast” also maintain an upbeat mood while talking about overcoming loss and their struggles with grief. The use of organic instruments and electronic elements, like guitars and drums mixed with soft synths add an extra layer of emotion that indie songs normally possess, which makes this EP that much more special.

“Joe” is a special song that talks about Muskat specifically and tells the story of him as the third member of the group. I think this track ties together the whole EP and produces a sense of empathy and celebration from listeners.

I think this EP is a powerful message to listeners to enjoy the life they have and to celebrate the people in our lives, whether here or not, because they “never really go away.”

I recommend JGM for fans of Rex Orange County, Grouplove, and Tame Impala.

Categories
Music News and Interviews

Black Contributions to Music: Bluegrass

Continuing with my series about Black contributions to music, I am highlighting a genre especially important to those of us who are Southerners: bluegrass. This genre of music is another that is often dominated by White men, but it has been influenced by Black musicians who are typically not recognized for their achievements. 

Many features of Appalachian bluegrass were influenced by or originated from African musical traditions, brought to America by African slaves. A key feature of bluegrass music is its instrumentation, including the fiddle, banjo, guitar, and more. The four-stringed banjo actually originated in Africa, most likely West Africa. In the 18th century the banjo and music inspired with themes of freedom and religion contributed to the spread of African-American music like gospels and spirituals, which was especially influential to the sound of music in the South. Black people in America were the first to learn and perform with the banjo. Another facet of bluegrass, “thumbpicking” or “thumb style” of guitar, popular in the bluegrass genre, is credited to Black instrumentalist Arnold Schultz. Schultz influenced both the bluegrass genre and many white guitarists. Another influence to bluegrass is the vocal tradition and tunes. Much of the powerful, emotive lyricism and vocal traits originate from African musical influence, and the dance tunes famous in bluegrass are very similar to those of the African musical tradition. There are also many European contributions to the genre, but the African, particularly West African, influences on bluegrass are just as essential. 

Bluegrass is such a unique genre of music and is especially important for Southerners and the Appalachian region. It’s important to recognize its roots and the incredible influence of Black musicians and African musical traditions which have shaped the genre. 

To further your understanding, check out these quintessential Black bluegrass artists: Joe Thompson, Victor Wooten, Kaia Kater, and Rhiannon Giddens. 

Miranda

Sources: I, II

Categories
Playlists

Friday Favorites (6/26)

This week’s Friday Favorites segment will highlight some of my favorite songs by talented Black artists from the mid-1900s. Often these artists had to fight to break into mainstream music and were working against discrimination and racism. Despite their struggle, these artists all created amazing music. 

Grandma’s Hands – Bill Withers

Most of us know of the talent and impact of Bill Withers as a musician. He is an incredible songwriter, and this song in particular echoes familial love and gratitude. Its emotional lyrics pair with a cool R&B beat to create a memorable track. 

Mama Said – The Shirelles 

This is a really excellent song by this successful group which defined female vocal groups and helped influence the popular blend of pop and rock with R&B. This song is fun and upbeat with beautiful vocals and harmonies. 

You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me – Smokey Robinson & The Miracles 

One of my favorite Black musicians is Smokey Robinson. Smokey Robinson & The Miracles created some of the most gorgeous music of the era, ranging from love songs to Christmas albums. The group is incredibly influential to R&B and this song is so beautiful. 

Ain’t Too Proud To Beg – The Temptations 

The Temptations were one of the most influential Motown acts of all time. Their vocals are extremely memorable and influential still today, and this song is a perfect example of why the group is remembered as one of the best of the 1960s. 

Please Mr. Postman – The Marvelettes 

This song is one of the best from The Marvelettes, a pop-influenced Motown girl group with gorgeous lead vocals and upbeat lyrics and song themes. This one is one of the most well-known by the group and has been covered by many artists since. 

As always, you can check out this week’s Favorites and all the songs from the past weeks on this playlist on WKNC’s Spotify. Hope you enjoyed! 

– Miranda 

Categories
Weekly Charts

Underground Charts 6/23

Artist Record Label
1 EARTHGANG Mirrorland Dreamville/Interscope
2 TUAMIE Emergency Raps, Vol. 5 Mutant Academy
3 ASAP FERG Floor Seats RCA
4 SUPA BWE Just Say Thank You Freddy Got Magic/Empire
5 TOBI LOU Live On Ice Empire
6 YOUNG RJ AND MEGA RAN 2HANDSUP Ne’Astra
7 YOUNG THUG So Much Fun 300/Atlantic
8 SOLANGE When I Get Home Saint Records/Columbia
9 CASHINOVA Big Dragon Stophouse
10 KASH DOLL Stacked Republic

Categories
Weekly Charts

Afterhours Charts 6/23

Artist Record Label
1 CARIBOU Suddenly Merge
2 LONE Not Seeing Is A Flower [EP] Ancient Astronauts
3 YVES TUMOR Heaven To A Tortured Mind Warp
4 GRIMES Miss Anthropocene 4AD/Beggars Group
5 JAMES MASSIAH Natural Born Killers (Ride for Me) [EP] Levels
6 COWGIRL CLUE Icebreaker Vada Vada
7 JESSY LANZA “Lick In Heaven” [Single] Hyperdub
8 CHRISTINE AND THE QUEENS La Vita Nuova [EP] Because/Capitol
9 INDIA JORDAN DNT STP MY LUV [EP] Local Action
10 BUSCABULLA Regresa Ribbon

Categories
Non-Music News

Black Owned Restaurants to Support

Father’s day was last weekend, so I hope you treated the father’s in your life to some good food. The best way to do this: buy from one of these black owned restaurants in the area. I’ll list a few here, along with a short description of what kind of food they serve. A longer list, containing more locations in North Carolina, is linked below.

Bestow Baked Goods located at 4208 Lassiter Rd, Holly Springs, NC 27540 – Since Bestow is known to make desserts for a special occasion be sure to place an order for that special father in your life. Cakes, cupcakes, cookies, breakfast and pies: all your desert needs can be met here.

Boss of Vegan located at 2161 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27603 – If you’re looking for a vegan burger look no further. If anyone in the family enjoys eating vegan this is a great spot to order from.

Chick-N-Que located at 420 S. Main St., Rolesville, NC 27571 – This restaurant serves 100% N.C.-raised ostrich burgers, I’ve never had one myself but I sure want to try…but if you aren’t ready for it they also have a large variety of other chicken dishes to choose from. And they have a food track that goes around town.

Dame’s Chicken and Waffles located at 1823 N. Harrison Ave., Cary, NC 27513 – A personal favorite of mine, you can never go wrong with their unique chicken and waffle dish. Dames is a one of kind experience, with their various waffle spread flavors and a menu full of various vegan and vegetarian options. Anyone in the family can find something to eat here, making it the perfect place to order from for a special occasion.

Joyce and Family Restaurant located at 129 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 – This family offers some of the best home style country cooking in the area. Everything is made fresh and daily, they put their hearts and love into every dish. They also offer catering services.

As I said these are only a few of the great black owned restaurants in the area, links to find more are located below. If you order out anytime soon, these all make fantastic choices~

More Black Owned Restaurants:

Google Sheet of black owned restaurants 

 Black owned restaurants in Raleigh NC

Until next time

Let’s stay psyched and support the Black Lives Matter Movement,

DJ Psyched