Category: Blog

Categories
Playlists

Spooky Season Playlist

Okay, so Halloween is every day for me, but I get hella extra when October hits. October is the only time of the year where almost everyone is getting their spooky vibes on and it makes my heart happy. Horror movies 24/7, going to haunted houses with the homies, and eating candy are only some of the activities that go on during this time. What’s not to love???

You want to know what else is spooky? Metal. Why do you think I love it so much? Below is a playlist that I created for all of your spooky season endeavors! So, sit back, relax, and blast this playlist throughout your haunted house or in your car!! You already know your Master Butcher has your back  (literally, your spine) for all things scary (: welcome to The Saw’s Butcher Shop y’all!

The Saw’s Spooky Season Playlist (link to Spotify below, sorry my Apple Music Butcher Crew).

·      Halloween Theme Song

·      Heads on the Wall – King Diamond

·      Halloween – King Diamond

·      This is Halloween – Marilyn Manson

·      Rotting in Vain – KoRn

·      Twist – KoRn

·      No Place to Hide – KoRn

·      Black No.1 -Type O Negative

·      My Girlfriend’s Girlfriend – Type O Negative

·      Summer Breeze – Type O Negative

·      Dragula – Rob Zombie

·      Living Dead Girl – Rob Zombie

·      Superbeast – Rob Zombie

·      Demonoid Phenomenom – Rob Zombie

·      Meet the Creeper – Rob Zombie

·      Feed My Frankenstein – Alice Cooper

·      All Hallows Eve – Type O Negative

·      Hallowed Be Thy Name – Iron Maiden

·      The Number of the Beast – Iron Maiden

·      Bark at the Moon – Ozzy Osbourne

·      Black Sabbath – Black Sabbath

·      Dead Skin Mask – Slayer

·      Raining Blood – Slayer

·      Seasons in the Abyss – Slayer

·      South of Heaven – Slayer

·      A Touch of Evil – Judas Priest

·       Creeping Death – Metallica

·      Enter Sandman – Metallica

·      Shout at the Devil – Motley Crue

·      Psychosocial – Slipknot

·      Duality – Slipknot

·      The Devil in I – Slipknot

·      Wait and Bleed – Slipknot

·      Kill or Be Killed – Spite

·      Kill or Become – Cannibal Corpse

·      Bloodstained Cement – Cannibal Corpse

·      Evisceration Plague – Cannibal Corpse

·      Hammer Smashed Face – Cannibal Corpse

·      Code of Slashers – Cannibal Corpse

·      Chopped in Half – Obituary

·      Slowly We Rot – Obituary

·      Ten Thousand Ways to Die – Obituary

·      Straight to Hell – Obituary

·      Turned Inside Out – Obituary

·      Inked in Blood – Obituary

·      Back from the Dead – Obituary

·      Lycanthropy – Six Feet Under

·      My Hatred – Six Feet Under

·      Murdered In The Basement – Six Feet Under

·      Insect – Six Feet Under

·      The Poison Hand – Six Feet Under

·      Where the Slime Live – Morbid Angel

·      Let The Knife Do The Talking – Hypocrisy

·      Symbolic – Death

·      Low Life – Death

You can find the Spotify playlist that includes all these songs here! 

What are some of your favorite spooky traditions? What songs are in your spooky playlist?

Stay Metal,

THE SAW

Categories
Playlists

September Tunes

 

2k Indie is all about spotlighting new indie music from smaller bands, and last month was full of good new tunes. So as part of a new monthly series, I want to highlight some of these new releases. These tracks all come from late August through September, and a full  playlist can be found at the end. 

  1. Messing With My Head by Smoothiboi Ezra // This artist has definitely caught my attention in the last few weeks. Her voice is so smooth and her lyrics are interesting to me because she kind of just says what’s on her mind but makes it sound so much smoother than just talking. This song’s theme is definitely something a lot of people can relate to, feeling as if someone’s messing with your head. The guitars in the track are also simple enough to let the lyrics stand out but accompany nice because the tone isn’t quite angry or sad, but somewhere right between.

  1. Gettin’ Older by Balue // Now this track stood out to me at first lesson because the artist has a very unique tang to his voice and he sings as if he’s speaking to someone. But the lyrics get me the most because I think everyone in college can relate to feeling like they’re getting older. The chorus is pretty catchy and the music is interesting throughout, the texture of the piece is pretty full and thick feeling. There is a smooth guitar solo around the end that pushes past all the backing instruments and it really keeps this track flowing. ‘Gettin’ older, still feeling pretty cool’ ヽ(⌐■_■)ノ♪♬

  1. Pheromones by Your Neighbors // The music got me on this one right away, its very funky in a way. The vocals have a nice drag to them and the music isn’t the traditional vibe I get from a lot of indie music (whatever that is). The track is catchy enough to groove along to but it also has a few layers and it’s pretty interesting to listen back and really try and hear everything. The guitars are also light and super catchy, and the electronic elements throw in really keep this piece interesting.

– DJ Psyched

Playlist to More // https://open.spotify.com/playlist/32tELiKlcSGbsrKQsbMyS1?si=DRBsQ4L_TWWHaHSAS114LA

Categories
Band/Artist Profile

Band of the Week: Upon A Burning Body

Ahhh yes, the boys from San Antonio, Texas.  Upon A Burning Body (UABB) is one of my favorite bands, they were one of the first metalcore bands that got me into metal. Me and my cousin (who helped me find the bands that got me into metal) were going to go to a show and he showed me UABB. The first song that I heard was Intermission and I was instantly hooked.

UABB has this charismatic energy to them that immediately makes you want to move around. They also bring that same energy when performing. They are all running around and you can easily tell that they are having a good time.

I have seen UABB tons of times (and it never gets old!!!). I saw them twice back in 2016 at Amos’ Southend in Charlotte, NC, twice in 2017 at the Blind Tiger in Greensboro, NC, and once at Groundzero in Spartanburg, SC.  

When I saw UABB in Greensboro that one year, and I was in the front of the crowd singing the lyrics back to the band. Their bass player, Joe, always gives me a guitar pic when I see them. But their singer, Danny, dedicated Texas Blood Money (one of my favorite songs) to me and thanked me for jamming out during their entire set. After their set, Danny came down and gave me a hug and thanked me again. I went over to their merch booth later after the show and hung out with the entire band! It was a great moment and it honestly made my entire life. Now, when I see UABB, I hang out with the entire band! They are such cool guys!

UABB formed in 2005 in San Antonio, Texas. They have five albums: The World is Ours (2010), Red. White. Green. (2012), The World Is My Enemy Now (2014), Straight From The Barrio (2016), and Southern Hostility (2019).

UABB received some backlash with their publicity stunt in 2014. Danny Leal did a kidnapping hoax. Leal tweeted some weird tweets prior to his “disappearance” and then the UABB Facebook page wrote a post stating that he has gone missing. Come to find out, he was never actually missing and it was all a publicity stunt. It was said that the band did this behind the label’s back and it was not appreciated. This stunt did have some serious backlash that the band would have to deal with in the coming years.

UABB was then dropped from Sumerian Records sometime after they released Straight From The Barrio in 2016. This record was personally, my least favorite. They then got signed by Seek & Strike and released Southern Hostility in 2019 and it is honestly one of my favorite releases! They brought back the aggression and bone cutting riffs that we all know and love.  

Favorite songs: Intermission, Texas Blood Money, Sin City, All Pride No Pain, and The Champ is Coming.

Have you seen Upon A Burning Body? What are some of your favorite songs?

Stay Metal,

THE SAW

Categories
Miscellaneous

Music Theory?

 

Subjectively speaking, you definitely don’t need music theory to make music. There are a lot of people choose not to learn it because they say they either find it limiting or just tedious. But, it can also be super helpful, especially when you’re starting out or want to do something new and original. I recently read a really interesting reddit post about this ‘debate’ that made me want to learn more about both sides. I’ve been working on music with some friends and, since I only know a little bit about theory and production, it’s been on my mind. Do I need it more?

I’ve been studying music for almost two years now through the music minor program and before I started my music classes I knew absolutely nothing about music theory, but I have been playing guitar for about six years now. I really didn’t understand what it was before or what I would do with it. Then I wanted to start making my own music, so I was excited to start music theory because I was told it would really help me. I’ve only taken Piano, Music Theory 1, and joined the schools Music Theory Club at this point so I’m no expert but I definitely am starting to understand where both sides of the argument comes from.

I have written little pieces before (it’s not a musical genius by any means) but I was able to make something coherent ‘by ear’ as many people say. And I should also mention that there are so many programs these days that are made to help people who don’t understand theory too well or don’t care for it (free loop samples, chord packs, etc.). I personally feel like it’s really up to you and what you want out of your music if theory will matter much to you. If you’re simply doing it for fun or because it’s a good stress reliever, or an outlet for you, etc. then there’s really no right or wrong way to make music. I mean there isn’t either way BUT I do understand the side of the argument that says learning theory, or at least understanding some basic parts of it, will really help out a musician trying to do something new or unique. Having an understanding of how things work in music can help you do more complex things and evoke the emotions/ styles you’re going for. I’ve noticed that the more I learn the more I can break things down and come up with a more complex understanding that I can bring into my music making. It’s hard to put but as one of the Reddit commenters put it ‘if you learn theory you are more likely to do things you wouldn’t otherwise have done’.

Theory isn’t the easiest thing to understand but if you are interested in seeing what it can do for you, there are lots of videos online that can help and there is also a music theory club on campus. But again it’s totally up to you how you feel about this, you can definitely get into music without it. And you definitely don’t have to be an expert to try anything you want in music. So my question for you is, do you think music theory is fundamental for making music?

– DJ Psyched

Categories
DJ Highlights

My Unpopular Music Opinions

Unpopular Opinion 1: 

Kanye West’s production is unmatched and influential; the hate he receives eclipses his artistry. I get it, Kanye is sometimes an egotistical, spotlight-stealing, hot-take-making, Trump-supporting ass. I’m asking you to simply separate the music from the artist here. He’s a phenomenal beat maker, sampler and rapper. He wrote songs that defined a lot of the 2000s and he can bring a lot of emotion to his music (see 808’s and Heartbreak or ye). I’m not saying the hate he gets is completely undeserved, but I think he is lacking the respect he has earned with his art.

Unpopular Opinion 2: 

Trap music is today’s pop. Trap is everywhere, this one doesn’t need much explaining. Trap went from putting a lot of white America off, to putting a lot of white America on. Trap’s close association and origin in black culture is of course conducive to its major success in popular culture in America. Pop and rock just aren’t dominating like they used to, even though trap music holds a lot of similar qualities like catchy hooks, memorable, creative beats and ease of replication.

Unpopular Opinion 3: 

Bhad Bhabie is GOOD ok?! This is one I don’t like to admit, I’ll be honest. “Gucci Flip Flops” and “Hi Bich” will be played at my wedding reception. Do I like Danielle Bregoli? No. Is Bhad Bhabie all bhad? Also no.

Unpopular Opinion 4:

Solange is Beyonce but for edgy girls. In terms of their voices, Solange’s and Beyonce’s are very similar. Of course, being their own persons, they make very different music. To me, Solange makes music for people who don’t like Beyonce’s songs, but still love her voice. Solange is good at targeting the younger crowd of people who relate more to experimental music. Beyonce is too cookie cutter for the average (I HATE this word) “hipster.” Both women have incredible stage presences, sex appeal and extreme talent, but Solange seems to be leaning toward the “edgier” side of things.

Unpopular Opinion 5: 

Tyler, the Creator’s past homophobia should not go unnoticed. If you’re a Tyler fan like me, your middle school days consisted of scream shouting Tyler, the Creator and Odd Future lyrics to get rid of pent up angst. For me, there was nothing like being a 14 year old walking around the hallways with your headphones in listening to Tyler repeat “kill people, burn shit, f*** school.” I also lacked any knowledge on how damaging slurs being used inappropriately could be. I barely batted an eyelash when Tyler used the word “f*g,” but it only took a few short years to understand why it was horrible. I soon stopped listening to Tyler’s old stuff with such enthusiasm. Now, knowing that Tyler is a member of the LGBT community, doesn’t mean what he said in the past was entirely the right thing to do. I believe that members of an oppressed group are allowed to use the slurs used against them without consequence, but Tyler’s fans who are majority straight males may have seen this as an invitation to spread hate and vitriol. He was young like I was, and using the word in all the wrong ways, but I think people like to brush off his past behaviors because he is such a lovable character and most of all because he’s a man, someone society allows to get away with a lot. 

That’s just my take,

-cellar door xxx

Categories
Classic Album Review

Retro Review: Hafdís Huld – Synchronised Swimmers

Hafdís Huld - Synchronised Swimmers

Aw. It’s nice. More like pop, with very sweet and gentle vibes. I probably would not put Huld’s Synchronised Swimmers (she spells it that way idk) on at a party, but I could appreciate it playing at my local bookstore. Perhaps it might do well in a quaint coffee shop as well. It definitely doesn’t rock, but Hafdís Huld’s talent is undeniable, so I’m not mad about.

 All of these tracks sound nice. That’s really the best way I can describe them. Each track is cute and sweet and kind of makes me picture bunnies in the grass. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of my day could be backed by this type of music. It’s just soft. As I said, though, Huld pulls it off. The vocals really are beautiful, and you can hear the raw talent. The lyrics are also gentle on the ears and the mind. It’s hard to screw up soft words sung by a soft voice. Again – it’s NICE. Like I would maybe be friends with it, but Synchronised Swimmers is not marriage material. I wouldn’t be excited to commit to this album.

I think what brings it down for me is the way this entire album is produced. The finishing touches seem heavy-handed. Huld DOES have a beautiful voice, but these songs seem too polished. Gentle guitar with occasional piano and very soft percussion is basically Huld’s voice in instrument form. They clash. What I would really love to hear is Huld uncut backed by some soft acoustic sound – something not as shiny.

Basically – fine album with fine tracks. Maybe play it for your grandma while she sips some tea and you help her organize her file cabinet. Synchronised Swimmers is mild and unoffensive. Not mad about it, just underwhelmed. Ending this review with a shrug.

xoxo

your trusty music librarian 

Categories
Classic Album Review

Retro Review: Hive – Ultrasonic Sound

Hive - Ultrasonic Sound

Phew. This album is a beast. Hive really went all in and you can hear it in every song. You can detect the hint of a thought process in each track but the genius is that the flow still leaves you guessing. Ultrasonic Sound was put out in 1998 (!!!) and still sounds fresh to me. Gives this album a listen if you want some new afterhours stuff, if you need to pretend you’re a spy, or if you just wanna hear some dope music.

            Firstly – that sampling. These tracks all have seemingly random soundbites from all over but they’re perfectly chosen and perfectly placed. They can make you laugh or pull you in as they blend with the rest of the track or scare the hell out of you when you realize how creepy they actually sound. The way these tracks are mixed just gives them so much power. Ultrasonic Sound only has seven tracks and all of them feel 3-D.

            The first song on this album, Ultrasonic Sound, originally grew in popularity after people heard it on the Matrix soundtrack. Although it can sometimes be dangerous to link music to other media and ignore that it exists on its own, grouping that first track with the Matrix is a perfect way to understand it. These tracks give you that feeling of anticipation and confusion, and the film really is a great depiction of the sound. That being said, this music easily creates a complete experience on its own. You can hear all of the elements in each track yet Hive has managed to create a balance and flow, in addition to evoking a response. Ultrasonic Sound is just a great album. It’s cool and weird and gets you in your head. Futuristic 90’s trippy hip-hop. Pretty Cool.

 xoxo

your trusty music librarian 

Categories
Classic Album Review

Retro Review: Havok – Burn

Havok -Burn

I’m not even into metal, or thrash metal, or anything cool like that, but SHOUT OUT to Havok. Killing it since 2009 before I even knew what metal was. Burn has that classic metal sound that would probably disgust your mom and plays in the background of a movie scene where the protagonist goes on a rampage or does illegal things for the first time.

            If we’re analyzing an album from the start rather than hearing it single by single, the starting point is obvious – covert art, and this one’s a cutie. Who doesn’t love skulls and weird dead trees? The subtle yet timeless metal vibes are present with a unique twist. I honestly think the combination of a softer color palette and spooky archetypes like the skulls illustrate the feel of the album perfectly. Yes, it is intense as metal often is, but it has gentle moments similar to classic rock.

I have to say I was hesitant about this one as I rarely listen to metal. In all honesty I often find myself avoiding it – but I am a fan! I just like it. Burn is a good album and there’s no getting around it. You can hear the talent Havok has and how well they work together to create a cohesive sound. Metal often gets put into a box and I used to believe the stereotypes I heard about the genre. I’m happy to say I have been wrong for quite some time. This album is what you need to hear if you haven’t yet developed an appreciation for metal. The vocals aren’t super heavy, and the foundation is built by great musicians that rock hard enough for it to be metal but won’t scare a newbie like me. I recommend! Yay!  

xoxo 

your trusty music librarian 

Categories
Classic Album Review

Retro Review: So Many Wizards – Heavy Vision

So Many Wizards - Heavy Vision

What a bummer. So Many Wizards is probably best known for a super popular track of theirs, and it saddens me to say that said track is the best thing they’ve put out. Lose Your Mind really is a great single, and I had high hopes for this earlier So Many Wizards album, but it’s really nothing to get excited about. As per usual, Kazerouni sounds great, as does the rest of the band, but all of the songs kind of blur together. It pains me to write this, but there’s just nothing special going on here. Heavy Vision gets a 5/10 from me. Sorry guys.

            At first glance, I was excited to maybe hear a little something darker from this group. The album cover they chose for Heavy Vision really had me convinced that I was gonna hear something a little gloomy from the group. We all love a dark album every now and then. This is not what we have here.

            Of course, one of the worst habits us listeners have is expecting every song by every band to sound like their hit single, if they have one. Even if we aren’t aware of it, it happens. One thing I can appreciate about So Many Wizards is their consistency. Their work sounds like them, through and through. They’re talented so they sound good, but there’s nothing that really reaches out and grabs the listener– kind of a letdown considering they had 12 songs worth of music to do so in Heavy Vision. Because all of the tracks in Heavy Vision sound so similar but are missing that pizzazz, the whole thing kind of runs together. So Many Wizards is talented, but it doesn’t shine through in this album.

xoxo

your trusty music librarian 

Categories
Playlists

Ultimate Autumn Playlist

Last fall as a small freshman, I spent many mornings sitting alone in Clark dining hall cultivating playlists. Many of the songs on these playlists had much jazz and soul influence (but not all of them), and I have found myself going back to these songs as the season approaches. These tunes will have you feeling like you’re in “It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown” or longing to wear your best turtleneck. The hottest fall soundtrack will accompany you on your walks to class. If you’re into any of these things, hopefully this post finds you well. 🙂 **These songs are not strictly autumn themed, but their sound will hit you right in all of your autumn-loving places**

1. Tis Autumn – Red Garland Trio

2. Para Machuchar Meu Coração – Stan Getz & Joao Gilberto

3. Baseball Theme – Vince Guaraldi Trio ( or any song from this soundtrack)

4. Make a Smile for Me – Bill Withers

5. Try Me – James Brown

6. Piece of Clay – Marvin Gaye

7. Voila – Francoise Hardy

8. Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye – Bettye Swann

9. Thank You – Bonnie Raitt

10. Autumn Leaves – Nat King Cole

11. Time of No Reply – Nick Drake

12. Diamond Day – Vashti Bunyan

13. Moon Dreams – Miles Davis

14. Alone Together – Chet Baker

-Elizabeth Esser