Category: Playlists

Great tunes to add to your own playlists

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Viral Infection: Infected Grooves

What’s going on Butcher Crew?! We have been cooped up in the Butcher Shop for one whole month! Can you believe it? I know that I said that there aren’t any exits in the Butcher Shop, but I’m kinda getting some cabin fever. Apparently, The Saw’s Butcher Shop is not essential. But that is okay! We can still stretch, hang, grind, and chop up some tracks from home!

This playlist is a part of the Viral Infection series, but it has been infected with some grooves! All these songs have the theme of rotting, viruses, infections, plagues, pandemics, death, the apocalypse,  and zombies, etc. These songs are also very, very groovy. So get prepared to jam out to these tunes in your house. Blast these tunes all the time to spread the love of the Butcher Shop!

Some of my favorite songs in this playlist are

·      Rotton Bodies – Jungle Rot

·      Rotting Ways – Obituary

·      Rabid – Cannibal Corpse

·      Bring Back the Plague – Cattle Decapitation

·      Evisceration Plague – Cannibal Corpse

·      My Apocalypse – Arch Enemy

Here is the full playlist on Spotify

What are some songs I should add to this playlist?

Stay Metal,

THE SAW  

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Playlists

Best Songs of April (so far)

 

April has already been a fantastic month for releases, and it’s only been a week. I’m excited for this month of music, especially since a lot of artists are releasing content right now. Considering everything happening in the world it’s really nice to have comforting new music from people who are acknowledging the changes while focusing on trying to embrace the brighter sides of life. Whether the music directly relates to the state of things right now or not, I strongly appreciate all the artists who are continuing to put out their work and giving us all something that we can enjoy and let inspire us.

  1. ‘Level of Concern’ by Twenty One Pilots – Tyler chooses to acknowledge the struggles and heaviness of the world right now from the very first line of this track, and I have to say it’s an amazing comfort to hear from the band right now. Just this week, on the Get Psyched Podcast, my friend Darius and I talked about the history of the band and predicted that the band would be releasing something new soon. We even mentioned that we hoped they would come out with something that related to the current state of things, so I have to say the timing of this release is perfect (The link to that episode will be at the bottom of this article). The rest of the song definitely lives up to Twenty One Pilots reputation, but it has a very new and different sound, and it’s nothing short of amazing. It’s catchy, comforting, and has a very developed sound. I get strong ‘Indie Pop’ vibes from this song, it feels less ‘electronic’ in a certain sense of the word, and it definitely stands out from other works from the band. If a new record is coming with this new sound I’m here for it.

  2. ‘Chosen Family’ by Rina Sawayama – I’ve talked about this artist on the blog before, and her highly anticipated album that’s being released April 17th, and this latest single has me even more excited for the debut record. It’s a much softer song then the last track released, but the music still holds up to her style. Its harmonics, synths and even a moment with electric guitar blasting in at the end really make the track stand out and feel uniquely hers. The lyrics also tell a beautiful story spreading the message of what it’s like to be so close to someone that they become your family, regardless of blood. How powerful and important our ‘chosen families’ are. The message and her soothing vocals make this track a perfect one for feeling appreciation for those you love most.

  3. ‘My Friend’ by Hayley Williams – Hayley is another artist I’ve talked about recently on the podcast, who keeps blowing me away with her new releases, and just dropped a new track and video that warmed my heart. This track reminds me of Rina’s in the sense that the music is enticing, the vocals are smooth and beautiful, and the message is that of appreciation and love for someone close to you. The lyrics talk about being seen in every state by someone and staying close regardless, it’s heartwarming and engulfes the themes of true friendship. These new themes and sounds from petals to armor really show some growth, change and talent from the artist: it continues to excite me for what’s to come.

Now’s a great time to enjoy some new tunes and also take a moment to think of all of the people we love and appreciate most, and these songs are a great way to do both. There are definitely way more I haven’t mentioned, but you can find some more tracks in the playlist below. What are your favorite tracks that have been released this month?

Link to Twenty One Pilots Podcast Episode: https://getpsyched.transistor.fm/episodes/lets-talk-music-the-history-of-twenty-one-pilots-ft-darius-payne

Link to Full Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6CHgt25jDtqy9eyIHKKP3n?si=fJ_jKrGQRW20cS-RZ2i7ng

– DJ Psyched

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Playlists

Friday Favorites (4/3)

This week I’ve been listening to almost only electronic music, including some of my favorite alt-electronica tracks from the past few years. Hopefully you all enjoy this, and as a reminder you can listen every one of my Friday Favorites here. 

What We Drew – Yaeji

I try to listen to a variety of music, and that extends to songs sung in a variety of languages, like this one in Korean. I adore the simplistic drum beats paired with electro tones, and Yaeji’s voice is super pitchy and high, reminding me of one of my favorite artists, Grimes. Definitely listen to this if you want to hear something out of the box. 

let’s relate – of Montreal 

One of my favorite tracks of all time, hands down. This song has nostalgic value to me, but more than that, it’s just a well-produced song that has an amazing vibe. The tones just coalesce into a gorgeous melody that I never get tired of hearing. If you are a fan of electronic or alternative music at all, I highly recommend this track. 

Orange Shirt – Discovery 

The entire album LP by Discovery is a good one. I chose Orange Shirt particularly because it’s lesser known than some of Discovery’s other tracks, but I think it deserves a little attention. It’s such a catchy song with the best mixture of synth pop elements. It’s definitely been an earworm for me in the past, hope I can put someone else on to it! 

Are You Feeling Sad? (ft. Kali Uchis) – Little Dragon

Little Dragon has had a great impact on my life as a music lover, and she helped me really dig into the electronic scene. I also happen to be a big fan of Kali Uchis’s vocals, so I really appreciate the vocals in this song. Its melody is a bit chaotic and leans more toward the genre of pop than I usually like, but overall I think it’s such a cool song. 

As always, I’m so thankful to everyone who takes time to read my posts and listen to my recommendations. Wishing that everyone is keeping safe and healthy!

– Miranda 

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Playlists

Comforting Music

Something that I’ve realized while being under quarantine inside my house is the need for hours of self-care, including music that helps relax and comfort me. This blog posts includes some of my favorite comforting albums and songs as well as a playlist to help keep you well during times of concern and anxiety. 

Oncle Jazz – Men I Trust (2019)

This album is the epitome of relaxation with soothing melodies and calmness that is perfect to keep you feeling light even when things are difficult. I particularly like this album because it remains upbeat and cheerful in its lyrics which is perfect when paired with the soothing beats found throughout the album. 

Duke Ellington & John Coltrane – Duke Ellington, John Coltrane (1963) 

I am not a fan of jazz, however, this album could put me to sleep with its relaxing saxophone and piano notes. My favorites from this album are In A Sentimental Mood and My Little Brown Book, two tracks I listen to quite often while focusing on work. 

Carrie & Lowell – Sufjan Stevens (2015)

Most of Sufjan Stevens’ albums include relaxing tracks, but Carrie & Lowell is likely the most melancholic. Although this album is sad, its beauty overshadows the grimness of the topic (the loss of Stevens’ mother and his childhood as the focus of the album). Can’t recommend this album enough. 

This Is All Yours – alt-J (2014)

I’m a big alt-J fan, especially since seeing them live and seeing how amazingly well their music transfers to an in-person experience. This album has some of the more relaxing, less tonal electronic and more instrument- and vocal-based tracks of their discography. All are beautifully made and have vocals which are sure to comfort you.

Fleet Foxes – Fleet Foxes (2008) 

The vocals and soft guitar strumming on this album help it remain one of my favorite comforting albums. Something about it is so inspiring, like warmth in the middle of a cold winter. 

You can find my favorites from all of these albums as well as other comforting tracks from artists like Keaton Henson, Beach House, and Elliot Smith on the Spotify playlist linked here. Hope you enjoyed this blog post!

– Miranda 

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Playlists

Covid-19 Playlists: The Viral Infection

What’s going on Butcher Crew?! I hope you are all safe and well during these times. The only pain you should endure is in the Butcher Shop! But have no fear, The Saw is here to make sure your self-quarantine is filled with some beatings. Dr. Saw is here to prescribe you some metal.

I will have the songs divided into the segments of the Butcher Shop: Diamond Cuts, Death Row Cell Block, Meat Grinder, Slot Drain, Chopping Block, and Meat Locker. In the playlist, however, they will not be divided into different playlist, but go down in preceding order from Diamond Cuts to Death Row and so on.

So, sit back, relax, and enjoy your time indoors with some killer cuts.

The Viral Infection – A Covid-19 Playlist

Diamond Cuts:

·      The Champ is Coming – Upon A Burning Body

·      I.H.E. – Miss May I

·      Apnea – Currents

·      Pissed Off – Fit For A King

Death Row Cell Block:

·      The Grand Conjuration – Opeth

·      Legend of a Banished Man – Amon Amarth

·      Pull the Plug – Death

·      Rime of the Ancient Mariner (2015 Remaster) – Iron Maiden

The Meat Grinder:

·      God Forgives… – Never Ending Game

·      Nail in the Coffin – Bent Life

·      Capital Punishment – Detain

·      Boomslang – Kublai Khan

Slot Drain:

·      In Lust We Trust – I Am

·      Suffocate – Traitors

·      Never Homesick – Bodysnatcher

·      Kill or Be Killed – Spite

The Chopping Block:

·      Wrong One to Fuck With – Dying Fetus

·      Kill or Become – Cannibal Corpse

·      The Geocide – Cattle Decapitation

·      Childchewer – Infant Annihilator

The Meat Locker:

·      Elitist Ones – Whitechapel

·      Love Me to Death – Suicide Silence

·      Slaves Beyond Death – Thy Art Is Murder

·      Agony – Slaughter To Prevail

Stay Metal,

THE SAW 

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Playlists

Friday Favorites (3/20)

Hello everyone, I hope you’re all doing well and staying indoors(!!) and healthy during this crazy time. One of the best ways to take control of your own self-care and occupy your time well is to listen to new music. Hopefully my Friday Favorites for this week inspire you to find some new tracks to check out. 

9 to 5 (ft. Freddie Gibbs & Tedy Andreas) – Adam Snow 

I am a really avid follower of Freddie Gibbs and adore his music, which led me to finding this recent release. I like Andreas’ voice and the beat created by Snow. Definitely a must-listen especially if you like rap or R&B. 

We Got Love (ft. Ms. Lauryn Hill) – Teyana Taylor 

I was a Teyana fan back in middle school, and this song is so cute. Lauryn Hill is also one of my absolute favorite artists of all time, so this song is instantly good to me. Lauryn Hill’s verses on this song are so melodic and lovely. 

I Wanna Ride – Porches

This track is my favorite from the new Porches album, I think it’s a pretty sweet song about ~young love~ with a cool beat. “I wanna ride with you/ wherever you are.” It’s also a bit different from the typically sound we usually get from Porches, which is probably why I like it. 

Je disparais dans tes bras – Christine and the Queens 

This one is nice because it somehow meets in the middle of electronic and pop in an appealing way that is actually pretty underrated. Very unique in its sound, and the French adds an elegance to the track. 

Climb That Mountain – Sufjan Stevens, Lowell Brams  

This song is a comforting instrumental made by Sufjan Stevens along with his stepfather, Lowell Brams (referenced in his absolutely fantastic album Carrie & Lowell – which I highly recommend). The singles that the two have been releasing have me extremely excited for the release of their collaborative album. 

If you’re interested, you can find all of my Friday Favorites since I began writing them for WKNC on a playlist at this link. 

– Miranda 

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Playlists

Let’s Talk Music: 2020 Releases

 

This year has  already been full of good music. The releases I’ve heard this far have made me beyond excited for what 2020 has in store. A lot of amazing artists are planning to drop new tunes this year and I’m psyched (ba dum tss) about it, so without further or due, here’s some of my favorite tracks from 2020 (so far…)

  1. Arrested Youth – ‘Sobville (Episode I)’ EP

I already made a whole blog post about this EP (because I love it so much) so all I really have to add is that Sob Story is my current favorite track. (though the whole thing is worth a listen)

  1. Modern Diet – ‘Post Grad’ Single

Modern Diet is one of my favorite bands and they’ve been steadily putting out singles since mid last year (fingers crossed for a new album). This latest track reminds me why I love this band so much. The instrumental work and lyrics are always quality with this band and the music is relaxing enough to make me want to lay on the floor and stare at the ceiling, while also being energetic enough to make me dance while walking to class.

  1. Hayley Williams – ‘Petals For Armor I’ EP

!!! This is a long awaited EP and I can’t believe how early in the year we got it !!! It felt like a dream when Hayley Williams announced her Solo project and it’s fair to say she did not disappoint. The lyrics tell a vivid story, as always, and the new sound works well with her vocals and much darker content. I love it.

  1. Declan McKenna – ‘Beautiful Faces’ Single

I’ve been a fan of Declan since I first heard his track ‘Brazil’. He never fails to make hooks that will get stuck in your head for days, while also managing to be honest and blunt about the political issues he sees. How strong his messages are, and how much they make me think, are what keep this artist a regular in my rotations. This track lives up to that reputation.

  1. Rina Sawayama – ‘XS’ Single

I was only recently introduced to this artist by a friend of mine, but the timing could’ve been better. This new single shows promise for an incredible debut album from the artist. The guitars in this track really make it stand out from other tracks in the pop scene, and showcase how diverse this artist can be with her sound. Not to mention she has the voice of an angel.

You can find the last five tracks in this playlist here -> https://open.spotify.com/playlist/06Bz9aboJo9zZfuXyBRHR1?si=PPwq4AcESMCVGaVbiZQTNA

Until next time…

Let’s Stay Psyched About Music

Love,

DJ Psyched

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Friday Favorites (3/6)

Spring break begins after this week, and in anticipation I (and I’m sure thousands of other State students) have been listening exclusively to the most upbeat music I can find. Typically I tend to gravitate toward indie and electronic music but this week I’ve mixed in some more popular music as well as some tracks that are spring break-esque that I’ve been looking forward to sharing. 

The Other Side (from Trolls World Tour) – SZA, Justin Timberlake

SZA is one of my favorite vocalists and so this track gets an instant heart from me. I also appreciate Justin Timberlake’s harmonious addition to the chorus on this song. I feel like this song is great for a dance party or even the drive home from school, it definitely makes me want to get up and move.

ringtone (Remix) ft. Charli XCX, Rico Nasty, Kero Kero Bonito – 100 gecs

This song is so addictive. The chorus, sung by Charli XCX, has been stuck in my head all week. I love the verses by all of the artists and think this is such a bubbly pop song perfect for listening to during a vacation. It’s a bit all over the place, chaotic, but that only makes me adore it more. 

Boogie – BROCKHAMPTON

I’m sure any BROCKHAMPTON fans reading this know and love this song already, but in case you haven’t heard it yet, this track is one of the most hype songs ever made. Every time I listen, I want to go crazy and dance. It also has a chaotic element, but I freaking love this song so much. Definitely perfect for your spring break party. 

Hot Girl (ft. Kari Faux) – Yung Baby Tate

I love Yung Baby Tate and Kari Faux and think this song has near-perfect lyricism. Just like Kari raps, I’ve been dreaming about getting tan lines and visiting the Bahamas. Anyway, this song has a nice beat and both singers add soothingly smooth vocals to the track. 

100 Degrees – Rich Brian 

This song is one of my favorites because it’s so refreshingly different from most Rich Brian songs (though I enjoy a majority of his discography). It’s such a bouncy song and features both rap verses and singing by Brian. It has such a warm-weather vibe that is sure to warm you up, even during unpredictable North Carolina weather. 

Hoping you all enjoyed this list, and am wishing you all an exciting and hype spring break!

– Miranda 

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Playlists

Friday Favorites

Hi everyone, it’s Miranda back again with my favorites from the past week! Hope everyone is managing to keep warm during the cold weather. 

Run – Joji 

I absolutely love Joji’s music and witnessing his evolution as an artist. This song is melancholy and perfect for the cold week we’ve been through. I’m a sucker for songs about lost loves and this one is no exception. It’s quite similar to melodies and content of his first album. Regardless, it’s a great song and the music video is well-made. I am definitely eagerly awaiting Joji’s sophomore album based on the singles he’s released so far. 

Hot Tub Time Machine – tobi lou 

Tobi Lou is consistently creating vibrant, interesting music which mixes the best parts of rap and anime beat-type music. His songs are truly unique and this one is no exception. As a recent release, it caught my attention because the vocals are distorted, use interesting adlibs, and a basic rap beat combined to create something different from most hip-hop/alternative artists. 

One and Only (ft. Ella Mai) – J Hus

British rap is an underrated genre and both J Hus and Ella Mai have such beautiful voices that this song feels completely natural. J Hus is an artist who constantly surprises fans by changing his style and flow with every song, this one is great because it kind of throws back to 90’s British rap, which I adore. Definitely listen. 

BUSSIT (with Ari Lennox) – Dreamville 

I absolutely love Dreamville and Ari Lennox, and together they made such a cool, sensual song. I love the gospel-style harmony Ari Lennox plays with in this track. It’s flirty and the beat is really calming, and I’m a sucker for any kind of love song. 

Stoned Again – King Krule 

This song just came out but I’ve already been listening to it on repeat. It’s a really interesting mix from King Krule’s newest album which is overall more complex and has more sound depth than some of his past music. I really enjoy the album in general, especially this track. 

Thanks for reading.

– Miranda 

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Playlists

The Saw’s Bloody Valentine’s Day Playlist

Happy Valentine’s Day Butcher Crew!! I hope your day is filled with love, metal, and even more metal! I know that some people love the love of Valentine’s Day, and others hate it. Whatever you are doing for Valentine’s Day – going out with your significant other, having a guys/girls night, or binge watching Netflix while eating a tub of ice cream, I have some songs that will fit any occasion! So crank up that music and have yourself a good time on the day of love.

·      Romance Is Dead – Parkway Drive

·      A Deathless Song – Parkway Drive

·      This Love – Pantera

·      Cemetery Gates – Pantera

·      Love You to Death – Type O Negative

·      My Girlfriend’s Girlfriend – Type O Negative

·      Cinnamon Girl – Type O Negative

·      Gravity – Wage War

·      Johnny Cash – Wage War

·      Thanks For Nothing – Bent Life

·      Psychotic Romantic – Miss May I

·      Snuff – Slipknot

·      The Death of Lies – Cradle of Filth

·      Let Me Put My Love Into You – AC/DC

·      When the Wild Wind Blows – Iron Maiden

·      I Hate Everything About You – Three Days Grace

·      Careless Whisper – Seether

·      Miles Away – Memphis Mayfire

·      Love, Hate, Love – Alice in Chains

·      Love-Hate-Sex-Pain –Godsmack

·      I F****** Hate You – Godsmack

·      Another You – Of Mice & Men

·      Vermilion Pt. 2 – Slipknot

·      On Her Mind – Volumes

·      Tough Love – Left Behind

·      No Love/No One – Gideon

·      F***** With A Knife – Cannibal Corpse

·      I Cum Blood – Cannibal Corpse

For Spotify playlist, click here!!

And always remember, the quickest way to someone’s heart is through the sternum.

Stay Metal,

THE SAW