Oak City Move 29: Oaks and Spokes
Sara and Jenaye talk to Oaks and Spokes, an organization that supports the growing cycling community in Raleigh.
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Category: Blog
Somehow February is over and it’s time to take another look at some of the best releases of the month! I feel like February was filled with a lot of mellow music, so it’s great for aimless walks, sitting outside and contemplating life or just spending quality time with friends. There are some upbeat exceptions of course, but I guess you can save those for fun weekend things. Enjoy!
1. Favorite Color is Blue – Robert Delong, K. Flay (Released February 23, 2018) – Single – Electronic
Robert Delong has been a long time favorite of mine, so I was really excited to see some new music from him – it’s been a while. Over the past few months I’ve become familiar with K. Flay. That being said, I think this collaboration is absolutely genius. Both artists craft their electronic music very specifically, so being able to hear each of their distinct styles and how they compliment each other was an incredible experience. This song was well worth the wait.
2. Where the Light Begins – Sam Gorski (Released January 26, 2018) – Single – Djent
This is a song that’s diverse in sound within its genre which I find really appealing, especially for a seven minute song. Sections within the track are different, so it makes for a non-repetitive, exciting listening experience. I also really liked the additions of crow sounds, rustling trees and running water. It’s something I’ve never heard while listening to this genre, but it certainly sets the scene. He’s released some more singles over the month, so there’s more to check out if you enjoyed this.
3. Real World – Junior Empire (Released January 26, 2018) – Alternative
I remember listening to Junior Empire’s first song, West Coast, when it came out a couple of years ago. I really enjoyed it and constantly checked for an album to drop with no luck. They’ve released a couple more singles since then, but they have finally released that long awaited album, titled Junior Empire, that includes these singles and some new songs as well. Real World is one of the new songs and happens to be my favorite on the album. They’ve definitely progressed since their beginning by incorporating some more electronic elements but the piano is still prevalent (which made me like them in the first place) so I’m happy!
4. Human Beingz – Frills (Released February 8, 2018) – Indie
I would say this song is just another cool addition to your Indie playlist. It sounds great, has a good pace and the vocals are cool. There’s nothing too unique or special about it in my opinion but it’s just one of those enjoyable songs that keeps to the tracks you use to chill out.
5. Psycho Star – King Tuff (Released February 6, 2018) – Single – Indie
I stumbled across this song on an indie playlist, and upon listening it seems to have some garage and folk influence as well. I really enjoyed the mixture of sounds because it gave me that confusion I love when I can’t place a song into one of the genre boxes in my head. However, it does kind of remind me of the Growlers’ song I’ll Be Around. That’s a compliment from me though. The song has an upbeat tempo, but it’s not too overwhelming, so I think it would be great to listen to while spending time with people.
6. White Eyes – The Wombats – (Released February 9, 2018) – Alternative
One of the best things that happened this month was the release of the Wombats’ fourth album Beautiful People Will Ruin Your Life. Whoo! I love all the songs on the album of course, but when I listened to the album all the way through for the first time, this song stuck out to me the most. It holds onto the Wombats sound but also includes the new work they’ve been showing off in this album. As usual, the bridge sounds amazing and the somber lyrics pair so beautifully with the energy of the music. If you like this song, you should definitely check out their album!
7. Getaway – Shiboski – (Released February 13, 2018) – Single – Lo-fi/Electronic
This is one of those songs that just makes your heart feel happy. The tune is so soothing and uplifting, so I like listening to it when I’m getting ready in the morning at an hour that’s earlier than I would like. It just reminds me of laying in a hammock at the beach or something, and the wind is blowing and the sun is out and everything’s great. It’s the definition of a short and sweet pick-me-up song.
8. Dusk – Whysp, Baribal – (Released February 15, 2018) – Single – Electronic
This is certainly another feel-good song, and it’s dreamy sound makes you feel like you’re a video game character exploring through a park in the snow. It sounds pretty crazy, but you’ll understand once you hear it. It’s a song with a lot of energy that somehow gives you a relaxed and positive attitude. It’s been really nice to come across these types of songs lately. I think all of us, as college students, need more of this kind of music in our lives.
9. Algernon – A Beacon School – (Released February 16, 2018) – Single – Indie
Whenever this song comes on, I just feel tempted to close my eyes and listen to it. It has such a great melody and the vocals are soft and smooth. Everything just flows together. It’s like you’re on a plane, looking out the window and watching yourself sail through the clouds.
10. Boo Hoo – Safa Gaw – (Released February 14, 2018) – Single – Rap
I hesitated to put rap as the genre for this song, because it’s definitely not traditional rap music. It has a sound that I’ve never really heard before and I appreciate that. I think electronic, rap, or alternative fans could enjoy this. It’s that upbeat want-you-back song with a new twist.
Honorable Mentions
- Lemon Glow – Beach House (Released February 15, 2018) – Single
- Know the World – Primitive Motion – (Released February 23, 2018) – From album House In the Wave
That’s all for this month! I hope the analogies weren’t too annoying. I just feel like it helps explain the feel of the songs so you can decide whether or not you want to check them out. Anyway, happy listening and come back next month for another batch of new releases. 🙂
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Oak City Move 28: Saving Space Showcase
Sara and Jenaye speak to Saving Space Showcase, a music initiative that highlights minority artists and benefits charities. This episode also features an interview with NC State Student Body President Jackie Gonzalez and Vice President Mia Connell.
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Oak City Move 27: Muslim Women For
Sara and Jenaye speak to Muslim Women For, a local advocacy group.
If I was allowed only one music source for the rest of my life, it would be Soundcloud. There are super small artists as well as the ones we all know and love, and everything in between. It’s a place for experiments with sound, music projects, podcasts and a platform for anyone to grow and be supported by other artists and fans.
The Soundcloud discovery I am most proud of is a low-fi/electronic artist by the name of pools. I’ve shown this account to a number of my friends, and no one has ever disliked it. I believe his sounds are innovative, relaxing and give me a new perspective on the world. For example, I usually hate mornings, but the first time I decided to play one of pools’ songs while I was walking to my 8:30 class, I actually felt uplifted and had a positive outlook on the rest of the day. It’s songs like these (the ones that motivate, help you recognize the good things in life, ask you to reflect) that are perfect examples of songs I love to discover and really show how good it can get on Soundcloud.
So, I encourage you to take a look at pools’ account! My favorite tracks are traffic lights and blue.
It’s been about a year since the account has been updated with new music, which is kind of disappointing. But who knows? Maybe we’ll be pleasantly surprised sometime soon!
Here’s the link to pools: Enjoy!
This was my first metalcore show of 2018, and it didn’t disappoint me at all! The last time I saw August Burns Red was at the Carolina Rebellion two years ago! When I saw that they were coming back to North Carolina, I didn’t hesitate to get my ticket! This tour supported the release of their new record, Phantom Anthem, that came out in October of 2017.
I got to Arizona Pete’s around 4 o’clock for the meet and greet that occurred around 5. The meet and greet and VIP experience with August Burns Red (ABR) was pretty cool. This was my sixth time getting VIP tickets. Individually, we got to meet the band and they all signed a poster for each of us. I small talked with the band during this time and I told them that I saw them at the Carolina Rebellion and that I am a metal college radio DJ for NC State’s radio station WKNC (if you aren’t listening to The Saw’s Butcher Shop on Friday nights from 10pm-midnight… you’re missing out). Every band that I have told that I am a DJ gets really excited and ABR was no different. They were really grateful and humbled that I play them on the radio and their singer said, “that’s so awesome, you’re literally the only person that will play us on the radio.” After the signing session, I got back in line and then we got a picture with the band (see pic above). When I showed up they all said, “look, it’s our favorite DJ!”
After the VIP experience, we were free to look at band merch and hang out before the show (you get to go in 30 minutes before doors open). I decided to stand right in front of the stage and wait for the bands to come on. My friend Savannah met up with me there and we jammed out in the front during the bands.
The first band to come on was Ocean Grove from Australia. Of course, when they said they were from Australia, we started a “USA” chant. Personally, I wanted to know if they knew the bands Parkway Drive, In Hearts Wake, and Thy Art is Murder (they too, are from Australia). The crowd didn’t really get into this band. The majority of the people just stood there. Savannah and I were dancing and moving to the beat every once in a while. They played Beers, Intimate Alien, and Thunderdome. They also got one of their friends to dress up like a Hooters girl and prance around on stage… that is an image I will never forget. He had the outfit, fake boobs, and a wig.
The second band was Erra. The crowd got into them a little bit more, but nothing major. There were some mosh pits here and there and of course, I was in the front jamming out, like always. They played some of their hits such as Drift, Seven, and Skyline.
Up next were my boys in Born of Osiris (BOO). I have seen them a handful of times and they never disappoint me. When they came out, the entire venue exploded! There were multiple mosh pits, tons of crowd surfers and stage divers, and everyone was yelling the lyrics back to the band. BOO is very interactive with the crowd when they perform. The singer is always in your face and literally a part of the crowd. He was grabbing people’s hands (aka mine), letting people yell into the mic, and getting the crowd as involved as he can. The guitarists and bass were very interactive too. They were always in the front and putting on a good stage show. Their keyboardist was running around, yelling into the mic, singing, and in the crowd’s face the entire time. They are really entertaining to watch and they put on an incredible show. I met the singer (again), the guitarist, and the drummer after the show. They are all really nice guys and they all thanked me for playing their songs on the radio. Ronnie (the singer) remembered me from the Charlotte date that they played and it was good to catch up. They played some of their bangers such as Bow Down (MY FAVORITE SONG), Empires Erased, and Machine.
And now it was time for the headlining band, August Burns Red. Right when they came on stage the entire crowd went rowdy. I was all up against the stage, getting elbowed in the back, my hair was pulled, and I have bruises everywhere (it’s not a good show if you don’t come back with bruises). Everyone was singing along and the entire band was interactive. They were always coming up to the edge of the stage and smiling at people and acknowledging everyone singing and jamming out with them. There was a huge pit and wall of death during the set. The guitarist smiled and waved at me on stage and mouthed the words, “my favorite DJ” to me. The singer was always in front of me jamming out and a lot of his sweat landed on me (this is what happens when you’re in the front). He would grab my hand and sing and just have a good time on stage! I was headbanging the entire time even though it was kinda difficult with everyone around me; and I hit my head against the stage, but it’s fine. I’m fine. Before their last song the singer said that he wanted to see more crowd surfers and stage divers. But he told them to watch out and not hit the “pretty girl up in the front.” I looked around and all I saw were guys around me… so I’m assuming he was talking about me. Everyone was getting on stage and they were careful, no one hit me. Then during the breakdown the singer puts down the mic, looks at me, opens his arms and says, “get on stage.” I was SHOOK, and he literally pulled me up on stage. He handed me their setlist and said something to me but I didn’t hear what he said because I was too busy looking at all the people at the show (it was PACKED) and I was thinking about if anyone was gonna catch me when I have to jump off the stage. Welp, I jumped off the stage and I was carried all around the crowd and was put down safely by the mosh pit. Anyway, ABR played some of their most well-known songs such as King of Sorrow, Hero of the Half Truth, and White Washed.
This was an amazing show, and a great way to kick off 2018!
THE SAW
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Genre Highlight – Lo Fi
Lo-Fi is getting increasingly popular right now, but I’ve noticed that there seems to be just as many people who don’t know what this genre is as those who do. As a fan myself, I’d like to introduce you! I strongly believe that this type of music has proved itself necessary to our lives, especially as college students.
Lo-Fi is best accompanied with pretty much all of the things that are vital to us in college, but are usually not completed adequately – sleep, studying and relaxation. Due to the softness and repetitiveness of these songs, they are great for canceling out noise and enhancing focus on studying, although I would personally recommend the Lo-Fi songs that do not include vocals for academic related activities. However, the entirety of this genre allows for an extremely relaxing experience. You can think of it like a bunch of lullabies, except you won’t get relentlessly made fun of for listening to them. Sleep always comes quicker for me when listening to Lo-fi, and I’m able to get into a calmer state of mind before taking a big test or after getting off of work.
Typically, these songs contain a soothing, repetitive melody accompanied with a soft, slow-paced beat. They can include spoken word, non-verbal or verbal vocals, either by themselves or all together. Some have no vocals at all. Sound effects (like rain, crashing waves, footsteps etc.) can be used in the background and create a themed experience. The tracks are primarily on the shorter side, about one to three minutes in length. They are unique and diverse, and in my opinion, add a greater aesthetic and introspective experience to anything you’re doing.
I’m sure you’re tired of reading this and just want to get to the music, so I’ve linked a Lo-Fi playlist that I listen to on Spotify frequently. A few of my favorites are:
- Ecstacy (Pay the Price) – Flamingosis
- Flugdank – Flughand
- Tropics – med monk
- how many stars are there – Idealism
- Hydrate – SwuM
Playlist – Low-Fi, Fly High
Enjoy!
Written by Angela Fluett
The Local Beat: Morning Bells
Raleigh pop band Morning Bells joined DJ Sparrovv and DJ Whatsherface for an interview and in-studio performance before their show Feb. 8 at Neptune’s.
Of Mice & Men formed in 2009 in Orange County, California. Originally, the band was a five-piece band; with Austin Carlile (vocalist), Aaron Pauley (bass/clean vocalist), Valentino Arteaga (drums), Phil Manansala (guitarist) and Alan Ashby (guitarist). Unfortunately, Carlile left the band in late 2016. He has been struggling with a long-term battle with Marfan Syndrome which is an inherited disorder that affects connective tissues. Instead of getting a new lead singer, bass player, Aaron Pauley, decided to take on the roll. Now, he is the bass player, and sole lead vocalist doing both growls and clean vocals.
Defy is Of Mice & Men’s fifth album and it is one helluva record. I wasn’t too crazy about their 2016 release of Cold War, so I was really looking forward to this record dropping. I was interested to see how the band would sound since they are now a four-piece, and I was curious to see what Pauley would sound like. I saw Of Mice & Men last year at the Carolina Rebellion (without Carlile), and I was impressed with their sound and stage presence.
Let’s get on to the music, shall we? I will be talking about some of the songs on this record that I find pretty cool. The album opens up with the title track, Defy. This song is an absolute banger. It really sets the tone for the entire album and is a great opener. There are catchy riffs, and a chorus that will get you shouting. Up next is Instincts that has a lot of melodies in it along with sing-alongs. This song is very groovy and it is accompanied by a killer guitar solo. This is one of my favorite songs off of this record. Back To Me is next and this song has a positive message to it. The song is talking about how we all lose ourselves but we will find ourselves at the end. They also covered Pink Floyd’s Money on this record, and let me tell you, they did a phenomenal job (will this cover make The Saw’s Metal Covers segment?). These are only some of the songs on Of Mice & Men’s new record. But almost every song has catchy riffs, sick anthems, and head banging potential.
I am really impressed with this record and it has been one of my go to albums of 2018. OM&M are on tour right now playing songs off this record! For more information click here! I am excited to see where this band goes from here. I have the upmost respect for them because, out of all the challenges that this band has had, they faced them all head-on and pushed through. Rock on, Of Mice & Men, The Saw approves.
Favorite song(s): Instincts and Back To Me
Rating: 9/10
THE SAW
Sara Darwish
A WKNC program that aim to highlight the work and voices of those enacting postivie change, Oak City Move was founded in early February of 2017 by myself and Phian Tran, a recent NC State graduate and WKNC alumna. I had never stepped foot into a radio station, let alone hosted my own show, so I was initially hesitant about working for WKNC. However, I have had a fantastic year with WKNC and our show, so here are five things I’ve learned during Oak City Move’s first year:
- People can suck
They won’t always be respectful of the space or your opinions, and will even call you out on your “normie” music. There will always be those that criticize your words and execution on air, and refuse to empathize with the sentiments you share.
- But they can also be really great too
The amount of support I’ve received in the past year has been astounding. From strangers to friends and family to WKNC as a whole, there have always been people that have reached out to continue the dialogue we have on air and pushing us forward with our work through their encouragement. WKNC in particular has been supportive of OCM’s message and actions from day one, which I am very grateful for.
- There are so many people doing amazing work that you don’t know about
Prior to working on OCM, I was aware of some organizations and individuals that were doing good for their community, but WOW are there a lot! The mediums in which people are doing positive work is super broad, so be sure to check out every avenue you can think of (and then some). My personal favorites of the non-traditional mediums include visual art, agriculture, and music!
- There is much more that goes into college radio than you’d think
Before coming to WKNC, whenever I heard the term “DJ”, I envisioned a guy scratching records on a turntable (spoiler alert: that doesn’t happen all that often in the studio). For OCM, we have to brainstorm ideas, reach out to interviewees, plan questions, promote on social media, do the actual show, edit the recording, and put it out to you all! There is also a multitude of other people and responsibilities that go into the success of WKNC.
- Students have more power than they think
I think it’s safe to say that on a campus as big as NC State’s, it can be easy to feel small and voiceless. Oak City Move helped me find my voice and my purpose at this school, and I have been exposed to more opportunities and remarkable people in the past year than I have in my previous 17 years of life. I obtained a leadership position within WKNC, became Facebook friends with a member of the North Carolina Senate, and met so many cool people.
You can reach Oak City Move at oakcitymove@gmail.com and listen to past episodes here.