Categories
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 

Categories
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

Categories
Playlists

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 

Categories
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 

Categories
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

Categories
Playlists

Friday Favorites

It’s been a rainy couple of days, meaning I’ve been binging on a lot of electronic and indie music to get through the gloomy weather. The following list contains the songs I’ve been listening to on repeat during the past week, and I’ve deemed all of them at least worthy of a listen.

Today (with Tirzah) – Mura Masa 

I love Mura Masa – he creates such gorgeous music that is always surprising me. This comes from his most recent album, R.Y.C., and the entire album has much more of an indie influence compared to previous, more vibrant/pop influenced albums. This song combines soft singing and nostalgic lyricism with gentle guitar strumming. It’s beautiful. 

4ÆM – Grimes

I’m in love with this song, and Grimes in general. She’s been on my mind lately because she’s having a baby with Elon Musk (!!!) and my Twitter feed is all over that. This song is so interesting because it’s influenced by both cyberpunk and Bollywood. I’m fascinated that she put these two themes together and made something that I listen to on repeat, especially in my headphones as I stomp around in the rain on these gloomy days. 

Talamak – Toro y Moi

This song fits right in to all the electronic songs I’ve been obsessing over. This is an old song of Toro y Moi that’s groovy and chill. I love the snippets of the song where he layers his voice. It’s a straight up bop. 

Shampoo Bottles – Peach Pit 

This song is a recent release and the vocals on it are captivating paired with the mellow instrumentals. This single was released last week and describes the loss of a relationship and the longing that comes with it. Definitely an interesting look at how Peach Pit’s second album will be, since this is the second single they’ve released from it.

Borderline (An Ode to Self Care) – Solange

Solange put so much love into A Seat at the Table, which is probably why I’m still listening to the whole album, but this song specifically for so long. The vocals are so pretty and the beat is simple, and Q-Tip featuring on it just adds to the greatness. 

Thanks for reading my Friday Favorites, hopefully you’ve found some new songs to check out. 

– Miranda 

Categories
Playlists

cellar door’s recent obsession: 90s/00s hip hop

Here’s a playlist that you can play in a variety of settings. These songs are chill, lyrical, funky, jazzy, introspective and nostalgic. Rap deals with a lot of heavy subject matter and a lot of the songs below talks about serious stuff. While I love rap and I love to have fun while I listen to it, it’s important to recognize the black stories being told here. With that being said, I’ve provided a bunch of things to do while listening to each song for a maximized listening experience. 

Gangsta Bitches (ft. Da Brat & Trina) – Eve

  • Play this when you’re getting ready for a party or a date and you wanna feel badass.

Nas Is Like – Nas

  • Play this when you’re walking to and from class.

What They Do – The Roots

  • Play this while you look out of the window of a car riding passenger.

Blast – Reflection Eternal

  • Play this when your friends come over on Friday.

Verses from the Abstract – A Tribe Called Quest

  • Play this in the car at night and bob your head the whole way.

Mr. Me Too – Clipse

  • Play this while you’re cooking dinner it helps you concentrate.

Shook Ones, Pt. II – Mobb Deep

  • Play this when it’s raining out and you feel a little emo.

Tonz ‘O’ Gunz – Gang Starr

  • Play this to speed-walk to class.

Big Momma Thang – Lil’ Kim

  • Play this while you get ready with a bunch of your friends (no boys allowed sorry).

Superthug – N.O.R.E.

  • Another song to play in the car. Volume up.

When I B On Tha Mic – Rakim

  • Another amazing song to play on the walk to class. I also think it’s great in the shower.

Liquid Swords – GZA

  • Night driving song. Chill, but hardcore.

Beware – Big Pun

  • Angry? Play this.

Grindin’ – Clipse

  • If you wanna dance, this Neptunes beat will do it for you.

MHB’s – Quasimoto

  • If you wanna chill and laugh at a clever bar, listen to this.

Southern Hospitality – Ludacris

  • Another futuristic and funky Neptunes beat. Dance to this.

Hip 2 Da Game – Lord Finesse

  • This catchy chorus will have you hooked and bobbing your head.

Blow the Whistle – Too $hort

  • High speed chase with the police? Play this to get away with it.

Hate It Or Love It (ft. 50 Cent) – The Game

  • A catchy chorus and infectious beat. This is a summer song.

Song Cry – Jay Z

  • If you’re sad, Jay Z will rap you to sleep with this amazing sampled beat.

She’s A Bitch – Missy Elliot

  • Get you and your krump dance crew together for some new choreo with this one.

-cellar door xxx

Categories
Playlists

Top 20 songs by The Replacements

My parents are big fans of Paul Westerberg and the Replacements. My mom and her friends would go to any concert of theirs they could when the band was touring in the 1980s. Naturally, I grew up hearing about them, but it was not until about a year ago that I really began listening to the Replacements for myself. “Swingin’ Party”, their most popular song, was the first one I listened to. I played it on repeat for nearly a month. The Replacements quickly became one of my favorite bands. They were the sound I always needed. I began to wonder how this perfect band never made it big. 

The Replacements were a self-destructive band. They were one the first punk bands that had the ability to bring punk to more mainstream audiences. However, their behavior on and off stage hindered them from blowing up. They made it on SNL in 1986, but after some heavy drinking throughout the show, the performance was a catastrophe. Westerberg dropped the f-bomb on air, and Bob Stinson could barely stand. Lorne Michaels banned them from the show. In addition, they never made it big on MTV, which was a huge platform for propelling artist’s careers during the time. Bob Stinson had substance abuse problems that forced the other members to kick him out of the band.

Despite their downfalls, The Replacements were trailblazers for indie rock. They didn’t follow the mainstream path, and are legends because of it. 

Here are my top 20 songs by The Replacements:

  1. Androgynous

  2. Here Comes a Regular

  3. Unsatisfied

  4. Swingin’ Party

  5. Sixteen Blue

  6. Bastards of Young

  7. Answering Machine

  8. Talent Show

  9. Achin’ to Be

  10. Sadly Beautiful

  11. Can’t Hardly Wait

  12. Never Mind

  13. Nightclub Jitters

  14. Alex Chilton

  15. Waitress in the Sky

  16. Kiss Me on the Bus

  17. Little Mascara

  18. Left of the Dial

  19. Rock ‘N’ Roll Ghost

  20. One Wink at a Time

-DJ Lizzo 

Categories
Playlists

Everything is Bigger in Texas

Chuck Norris isn’t the only reason you don’t mess with Texas. Some of the best metal bands have came from Texas and holy shit… they all go hard. The scene here is very unique because these bands have a distinct Texan sound that no other bands have. The riffs go hard and the breakdowns go even harder. Let’s take a look at some of my favorite bands from Texas.

Upon A Burning Body

I have already covered this band before, but these boys embody their Texas pride in songs such as Texas Blood Money. They are heavily influenced by Pantera because in that same song mentioned previously, they chant “respect, walk” which is a very popular chant in the Pantera song, Walk. These San Antonio natives put on a killer live show and I definitely recommend seeing them if you get the chance. Their songs are some killer riffs and catchy chants that you will be singing all day.

Favorite song: Sin City

I Am

Okay, this band has some of the best riffs that I have ever heard. They combine heavy ass riffs with killers grooves that will make you move your feet. These Dallas natives show their “Texas Death” attitude with pride. I have gotten to see this band once and all I can say is, WOW. They came out with so much energy and really captivated the crowd with their intensity. Everyone went crazy and I hope that they come back soon.

Favorite song: In Lust We Trust


Kublai Khan

Okay, this band is one of my absolute favorites. These Sherman locals take hardcore punk to the next level with some ass beating riffs and powerful barking vocals. I reviewed their newest record, Absolute, and if you haven’t listened to this album or band, you are really missing out. They bring the beatings like no one else. The riffs are simple but the intensity and weight of their sound makes them powerful. Have some pent-up anger? Release that shit with some Kublai Khan.

Favorite song: High Hopes

Creeping Death

No, I am not talking about the Metallica song Creeping Death, but the band from Dallas. I just got to see them for the first time and interviewed them on their tour with High on Fire and Power Trip. THEY ARE SO NICE!!!!!! They incorporate different mixes of genres from death metal, thrash metal, and a hint of hardcore. They have been influenced by other bands from Texas and their singer is really good friends with Riley Gale, the lead singer for another Texas band, Power Trip. Their riffs go hard and Reese’s vocals are amazing. They sound exactly the same live as they do on record. GO SEE THIS BAND!!! THEY ARE SICK!!

Favorite song: Peeled from Reality

Pantera

Does this band even need to be explained? From Arlington, I would argue that Pantera has influenced almost every band that is around today. Before Dimebag (RIP), there weren’t riffs like this; he opened the door for bands to experience with different riffs and opened the door for heavier music. I wish I could have seen this band live, but my parents have seen them tons of times. My mom was in a Domination pit and has met them. I’m hella jealous.

Favorite song: Drag the Waters

What are some of your favorite bands from Texas?

Stay Metal,

THE SAW

Categories
Playlists

Songs to fit the vibe

 

Music really hits differently based on your mood, so I’d talk about some songs to fit an uplifting vibe. I’ve made about a hundred different playlists for pick-me-up songs, from ‘Hype Music’ to ‘I love these songs with everything in me’. It’s like one of those youtube compilation videos you watch that have oddly specific titles but somehow fit your mood just right, anyhow without further or do here are some of my favorite pick-me-up tunes

  • Natural Supersoul by Superfood

    • If any song could make me feel like the coolest thing it would be this song, the vibe is so mellow it makes you kinda grove along, but the lyrics really always get me feelin like a Nat-ur-al Sup-er-soul

  • Younger by A Great Big World

    • Nothing quite like a throwback song to make you remember the good old times of childhood life

  • Hanna’s Theme by The Chemical Brothers

    • This song has no lyrics, it’s just really nice humming, call me crazy but I find this song so peaceful and relaxing I used to listen to it every night while falling asleep

  • One Day by Matisyahu

    • This song is just beautiful, and I think the message is really powerful

  • Something Good Can Work by Two Door Cinema Club

    • I’ve never made a good vibes playlist without this one, it’s a must to me, if you ever feel like things never workout this is the song to put on, because it’s a nice reminder that something good can work

What are some of your top good vibes songs?

– DJ Psyched