Fair Shake Reaction: Put Up a Fight - Løren

Put Up a Fight - Løren

(Genre: Krock/Rock)

Don't fight it, you want to click these:

Folks (Music Video)

Panic (Music Video)

Jus' 2 React (to Folks)

Zach Sang Interview

Most Requested Live Interview

Fair Shake Review: This is Why - Paramore

This is Why - Paramore

(Genre: Rock)

This is Why I link related videos:

This is Why (Music Video)

The News (Music Video)

Running Out of Time (Music Video)

Apple Music Interview (w/ Zane Lowe)

TheNeedleDrop Review

Turning the Tables Reaction

Fair Shake Review: COPINGMECHANISM - WILLOW

<COPINGMECHANISM> - WILLOW

(Genre: Rock)

Still trying to cope with these videos:

ur a stranger (Music Video)

hover like a GODDESS (Live at Lollapalooza)

curious/furious (Visualizer)

NME Interview

iHeartRadio Interview

BM5's November 2023 Favorites

Favorite Music Analysis

Understanding In the End - 12Tone

I LOVE LINKIN PARK! I think Miko and I can both say that, honestly. Thus when I saw this video pop up in my subscription feed, my ears perked up like a dog hearing "treat"! It was really neat to check out how he analyzed this classic single from a songwriting and music theory lens. It added even more color to my appreciation for this jam. Maybe it can do the same for you!

Favorite Dance Practice

Heartris - NiziU

This song is amazing and such an earworm melodically. Though, what amazed me about this release was the choreography. NiziU has been steadily growing in performance skill from their formation onward, but their precision was on full display with this particular piece. They brought their A-game with this and delivered a smile on my face the entire way through. I'm hoping you can agree, if you give it a watch here.

Favorite Kpop Discussion

What are "Generations" in Kpop - 2ndgenbias

This has always been a thing that fascinated me. Eras in music are always fun to look back upon and it's pretty easy to categorize in most western music; they're mostly cleanly squared away in decades. That's not something you can say about the kpop scene in comparison. There's definitely some pretty clear indicators of when the generations begin and end when we look back, but the time periods' duration aren't as similar as they are here in the States. This video does do a good job of seeing what common threads tie each wave together and looks on to what the future may bring as we head into the 5th generation. Do you find that interesting? Give it watch!

Full November 2023 Favorites playlist: click here

Miko's Music Stats 2021

2021 was the revival of a YouTube series I started 9 years ago by the name of Miko's Music Connection. So, my listening habits started to change on Spotify. Every entry in the series I binge the artists' discographies and later their videographies. Every now and then, I was able to listen to some new releases from my Need to Listen playlist. Maybe some time within this year, I can rewind back to my backlog of iTunes transfers. Enough rambling, here's some stats from my last.fm [and Spotify].

Miko's Music Connection - Ep. 9: Linkin Park (Original Edit)

First, I want to apologize to my Patrons for not posting their names in the original edit. It is featured in the YouTube Edit. Second, I want to retract my opinion of "Crawling" being Linkin Park's biggest blow up. I would definitely say that "In the End" definitely put them in the mainstream spotlight more. This is also mentioned in the YouTube Edit. Lastly, I originally wanted to post this yesterday, but YouTube was being a real pain with copyright. Nonetheless, I thank you all for your patience and understanding with the timing of this episode. I really didn't want to remove anything from my original vision, so I'm glad I could work around this issue.

Miko Plays: Guess the Linkin Park Song

Fair Shake Review: lately I feel EVERYTHING - Willow

lately I feel EVERYTHING - Willow

(Genre: Punk Rock/Alternative Rock)

Lately I link EVERYTHING:

t r a n s p a r e n t s o u l (Music Video)

Lipstick (Visualizer)

G R O W (Visualizer)

Jimmy Fallon Performance

TheNeedleDrop Twitch Reaction

Nylon Pink, Disacode, & Anna Tsuchiya Con Report 2015 & Disacode Giveaway

Additional Concert Pictures:

Fair Shake Review: CIMG1608 - Staplegun

CIMG1608 - Staplegun

(Genre: Punk Rock)

Live: The Rock & Roll Thugs U.S. Tour

The Rock & Roll Thugs U.S. Tour
[2014.10.20] House of Blues in Houston, TX
featuring: Fit For Rivals & Icon for Hire

Fit For Rivals
When I discovered Icon for Hire, there were a few other female fronted bands I came across on YouTube recommendations and this was one of them. I was happy that they were touring with Icon for Hire as well as being able to see another female fronted band I got into around the same time at a different tour, but I will be mentioning that experience in its own post. What makes Fit For Rivals different from the featured band is that their vocalist, Renee Phoenix, has a very rough and borderline masculine vocal style. The band's overall sound is kind of raw and bare which makes feeling the intensity of their music very easy to absorb. Listening to their music in person reflects their studio recordings and perhaps presents even more rawness and personalability. They offered plenty of energy and there was a good crowd ready to support them as well. I enjoyed the MC portions with Renee interacting with the audience and it was a delight seeing the other members lose themselves in the music, especially their guitarist (Rufino, I believe) who was rolling along with the sweet melodies. They played a good mixture of their old and new material and I think the switch to slightly more upbeat music is starting to grow on me with them. Fit For Rivals brought along some great energy to Houston that evening. They were very friendly people to talk to and meet and I'm looking forward to seeing them again on stage.


Icon for Hire



Additional Concert Pictures

Fair Shake Review: I Disagree - Poppy

I Disagree - Poppy

(Genre: Metal/Alternative Pop)

Let's Agree to Disagree on these:

I Disagree (Music Video)
BLOODMONEY (Music Video)
Fill the Crown (Music Video)
Nothing I Need (Audio)
Poppy & Titanic Sinclair SPLIT (by Beyond ARTV)

BM5's November 2019 Favorites

Favorite Live Performance

World's in You - Ella Jet & Future Soul

I love, love, love ELLA JET!!! Her and the band have been uploading more and more show footage and I'm ecstatic about it. If you haven't seen my mentions of them before, they are a blend of soul, funk, alternative, jazz, and rock. This happens to show more of the alternative side of theirs. If you check out their channel, you'll see how their blend of genres truly show what fantastic artists they are and wish they would already have a project out. Or maybe that's just me. You be the judge above!

Favorite Dance Cover

Eclipse - Got7 by LOONA

As an Orbit, I have quickly appreciate Loona's skill in dancing. In their choreography and dance covers, they have proven that they are becoming experts even with every member not having dance as their strong suit. They work within their means and still manage to create clean imagery, power, and grace with each piece. It has also made Heejin my dance bias. Loona is soon to become my ULT girl group if they keep up the content and the next album is better than Blackpink's. Plus, they already have more music out for me to listen to. Anyway, this cover is simply amazing and does its best to highlight all 12 members, so enjoy!!!

Favorite Music Video

Speedboat - Denzel Curry

Possibly my favorite song from ZUU; "Speedboat" has more than a lyric video now. They made it even more cinematic from the music to the video concept. They flash through key events in the storyline and then proceed to go through those vignettes backwards chronologically. It's simply spectacular! Showing a movie-esque take on how the environment that can lead to riches and death in the streets that coerce you to hustle to make ends meet. I can't imagine garnering a greater appreciation for Denzel Curry in the hip hop scene than I have now. Check it out!

Favorite KPop Discovery

Mamamoo

Eventually, you'll all get to see my reaction to listening to their latest album, Reality in Black. For now though, just know that "HIP" was my introduction this month and I've been obsessed. I did look into their past, since I heard they've had a bit of controversy, and I get into a bit of that in my reaction video, yet I've learned they also are marvelous artists in the Idol scene. Digging into the discography, a few fan events and other content has converted me into a MooMoo. The above video is probably my favorite renditions of "HIP" since you can truly see their personalities shine through the choreo and in waiting their turns. In addition, after immediately making Moonbyul my bias from the original music video, Wheein's charisma in this relay dance made her my bias wrecker. I told you that I'm getting into KPop, ya'll! Hahaha...

Full November 2019 Playlist: click here

BlipMasta5's August & September 2018 Favorites

Favorite Viral Video

Mooo! - Doja Cat

I've slowly become familiar with Doja Cat this month and it started with a break down of her song, "Go To Town". I soon realized that she has a fun personality who is open with her sexuality and presents it with wit. Yet, this viral video is what made me do the deep dive. If you haven't seen it yet, this really puts her carefree nature on display! It's pure fun with a bit of smart humor. As I dug deeper into her catalog, she uses that skill to talk about love, sex, and fun in a number of ways musically. If you're not offended by "crass" talk, I'd advise giving her album, Amala, a listen.

Linkin Park Listen Party

Review: Suicide Squad: The Album

Various Artists - Suicide Squad: The Album (2016, USA)
Rating: 3/5
Favorite Tracks: Heathens, Standing in the Rain, Gangsta, Slippin' Into Darkness
After seeing Suicide Squad, a movie I've surprisingly haven't reviewed yet but will, I had to hear this awesome soundtrack everyone was talking about. It's not very often that I hear positive commentary about more mainstream movie soundtracks. It also helps that a certain little song I had been repeating a lot was on it and I wanted to own it. So, here we are with a soundtrack review for a movie I look forward to sharing my thoughts on...after I see that extended cut.


The first track on the album, "Purple Lamborghini" by Skrillex and Rick Ross, was a song I first heard on a Rap Critic review. Not being a big fan of either of them, I was curious what he had to say about the song, especially with a title like that. I also thought it was an interesting mash-up of talent, so that added to my curiosity. For an opening track, it definitely presents some good build up and energy to get you into the feel for the movie and the album. For the most part, I agree with Rap Critic's opinion on the content of this song. Rick Ross's lyrical content kinda doesn't understand its subject matter, but Skrillex's beat backs up Ross's cocky delivery with an intense fusion of hip-hop and almost grungy dubstep elements, especially when the beat drops and the chorus kicks in. Yeah, I totally understand that feeling of wanting to headbang to that; it's practically the best part of the song. I think without Skrillex's addicting beat, this song would've fell flat and simply be another brag rap with no connections to the movie. Of course, if you watch the music video, it does pull you into the moment of Joker in the club and being a boss for sure.


"Sucker for Pain" by Lil' Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, Imagine Dragons, Logic, Ty Dolla $ign, and X Ambassadors is the next track on the album. Most of these artists I'm not that thrilled about, meaning I don't care for their music much. There are a couple I'm not familiar with, meanwhile one of them disappointed me quite a bit when I went to explore their sound beyond what was airing on the radio. Much like the first track, I was curious how all these different artists would sound like together. The song has a surprisingly smooth rock sound that doesn't overpower the rap verses from each rapper, but emphasizes the chorus sung by Imagine Dragons frontman Dan Reynolds. The melody softens just enough during the verses, except a bit of the bass, but doesn't distract from the content. Paying attention a little more as I watch the music video for this review, some of the transitions in the later half of the song seem kinda off to my ears. After Lil' Wayne's verse, it goes to Wiz and it just sounds kinda off to me like something was cut to make the song shorter, then there's that last part that leads to the fade which seemed a bit random to me.


Now for the reason I really wanted to check out this album: Twenty One Pilots' "Heathens". Honestly, I think this is the first song I heard from the soundtrack and it made me really curious what this hot new-ish band had to offer and why they were so damn popular last year. All bias aside, I think this song represents a perfect balance of darkness and melancholy that the movie offers for certain characters. There's something about this song that just really knows what's appropriate for a movie. Even looking at the music video, it just matches it so perfectly. Not only is this song earwormy as hell like their other hit songs "Ride" and "Stressed Out", but for me being a new listener to the duo, it just seems like a slightly different side for them. I love the soft, uncertain vocal delivery and the nice balance between all the instruments. Clearly, a very solid song that you just can't get enough of.

Next up is "Standing in the Rain" by Action Bronson, Mark Ronson, and Dan Auerbach. I've heard of Action Bronson through best of lists by Rap Critic and commercials on Viceland, but never searched out his music, while Mark Ronson is someone who most people, including myself, have only heard of because of his collaboration with Bruno Mars. I've also haven't heard much from Dan Auerbach's group The Black Keys, but the little I've heard was alright. I must say the tone of this song kinda matches the feeling of the movie, like "Heathens". Action Bronson has a pretty confident and enjoyable flow to his words and I like the retro sound and perfectly balanced sample from Oran "Juice" Jones' "The Rain" I'm sure Ronson provided. I also enjoy the hard hitting sound of the verse transitioning to this Pulp Fiction-esque vibes I get from the vocals. It's really chill and I should probably listen to this song more often.


A surprising gem I've quickly grown to love quite easily was Kehlani's "Gangsta". Taking the role of Harley Quinn in the music video, I feel like this song is very appropriate for that point of view. I really love this music video and how it interlaces Kehlani's relationship with her mysterious gangsta with Harley and Joker. I feel like the tone of the song doesn't completely glorify this kind of relationship; it's almost like a dangerous addiction that she probably needs to get away from, but can't because it feels so right. I love the contrast of her confident vocals with the hard hitting trap beat during the verses and then it softens to this vulnerable, dream-like singing in the chorus. It's quite a treat that's definitely too short. Every time I listen to it, I keep wondering where's the rest of the song! The good thing about this song is that it made me check out more of Kehlani's work and I learned a little something about her from BlipMasta5 as well.


"You Don't Own Me" by Grace featuring G-Eazy is another sampled track featured on this album. I think the first time I listened to this song, I passively listened to it simply thinking it was a cover and really...it kinda is. It has a few modern musical tweaks to it, adding more bass and vocal reverberations...oh yeah and unremarkable rapping by G-Eazy. Now I know what Todd in the Shadows meant in his Worst of list for last year. The video isn't anything special, just the two of them performing in a sound studio. Listening to this song for the second time and looking up to see that this video exists on YouTube made me understand why a no rap version exists. Grace's voice is quite pleasing to the to the ears. Her vocal styling is very similar to the original singer Lesley Gore, but she does manage to try to put a little of her own personality in it as well. In short, pretty good cover sans G-Eazy.


By using Grace's cover as a gateway or divider for new and old material, the album presents an Eminem gem from 2002. "Without Me" is a good song for chaotic superheroism, if you go back to the music video. It remains an enjoyable and amusing song from Eminem and gives me flashbacks of TRL and the days when MTV played music videos in the day time. I guess this could represent the fun vibes of the movie and the video does parody comics. I'm sure not many young people will understand some of the references in the lyrics or even the pop culture mockery in the video, but for people around my age will still find amusement and even a bit of nostalgia from listening to this off beat track from our favorite white rapper Eminem.

Next up is Skylar Grey's "Wreak Havoc" with a hard hitting electro-pop track. It definitely fits the chaotic and aggressive tone of the movie and kinda goes well with our first track. I've heard of Skylar, but I don't think I've explored her music very much. Judging by this one song, her voice is quite nice during the lead up to the instrumental chorus. I kinda like the chasing feeling she has to her voice in the verses. At times she kinda reminds me of Natalia Kills. The song has a very predatory feel to it and it makes me want to start a battle or something, which I think is appropriate for the soundtrack. Another female artist I'm somewhat familiar with, Grimes follows up with "Medieval Warfare". Unlike Skylar Grey, I have listened to her music beyond her contributions to this soundtrack album. I honestly should listen to more of her stuff beyond the few music videos I've watched on YouTube. Anyway, this song is a heart pounding electronic track with some very angelic and subtly haunting vocals from Grimes. I love the hurried feeling of the instrumental, the taunting guitar sounds, and the slight bump of bass. The song kinda gently pumps you up with the contrast of soft vocals and aggressive beat. I kinda wish I could hear more of her voice on top of this hard sound, but overall it's quite an enjoyable track.

I want to say that the cover of "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Panic! At the Disco was used in some of the movie's promotional material, but it's possible that the original by Queen could've been used instead. I must say that this was very good cover to the iconic Queen track. Yes, cover, children! Panic! At the Disco did not write this song. Anyway, they did a very good job keep the integrity of the original while subtly making it their own, especially in the vocal department. Good job, guys!

Since this album wants to bring the old with the new, we have War's "Slippin' into Darkness". This was an almost surprising track to reminiscence on while listening to this album, but I could see this fitting with Deadshot or Killer Croc's characters to some extent. Of course, this song is a classic and I remember hearing this track as a kid. The funk soul beat never fails to make me feel like a badass from the 70's while walking down the street like Jackie Brown. Another oldie, but a goodie comes from Creedence Clearwater Revival with "Fortunate Son". This classic rock track always makes me think of dusty roads, motorcycles, and bar fights. I guess I could see this as a song for our squad to band together, getting ready for their fight, or Rick Flag gathering the squad together and shouting out orders. This short track is appropriately placed toward the end with the psychedelic funk that War has given us previously.

Lastly, the soundtrack closes out with "I Started a Joke" by ConfidentialMX featuring Becky Hanson, which I think is a cover from the Bee Gees. It's definitely a softer and more orchestral oriented version with Becky's vocals softly echoing throughout the song. Her voice is almost drowned out by the gentle swelling of the music, which is kinda unfortunate because her voice is quite nice. It doesn't quite mesh too well with the previous tracks sound wise, but as far as old songs and covers go, it does belong in this section of the album.

Suicide Squad: The Album is a pretty enjoyable soundtrack. I like that they divided the new from the old and gave people familiar with the older tracks some relief if they didn't enjoy some of the newer stuff. The collaborations featured on this album were very interesting and I can't see them working together outside of anything like this, in my opinion. They did manage to produce some quality tracks that I could mostly confidently recommend to my friends and family, but I know that there are some tracks I know I won't be returning to for a while. On the negative end of the spectrum, the rappers I'm familiar with musically that I don't care for produced the quality what I expected, but their collaborators made up for their flaws. Also, the couple tracks that I enjoyed musically, I wished didn't drain out their singers (i.e. Grimes and Skylar Grey). Nonetheless, I think the album fits the tone and attitude that is Suicide Squad.

Top 5 Recommended Music Videos

"The Hills" by The Weeknd
2015 was a very good year for this little known artist and he was one of the best things that came out of the Fifty Shades of Grey movie. It took me a while to hop on The Weeknd bandwagon, but I'm here and I might review his most known album of that year at some point. For now, I want to talk about one of my favorite tracks from the album. Visually, the video reminds me of one of my all time favorite Kanye West videos, "Flashing Lights"--darkness with a little bit of sexy. Even the tone of the song has that haunting, seriousness that really lures me in. Sure, it doesn't show off his vocals that well compared to other songs, but it solidifies his mature, dark style with just enough emotion of despair and pain.



"Ridin Round" by Kali Uchis
I was introduced to this artist recently by a friend and I'm excited to check out more of her material, especially after seeing this video. Very good first impression. It really reminded me of early Rihanna meets M.I.A. (with maybe a hint of Amy Winehouse) and in my book, that's a pretty awesome combination. The video and song mixes Latin culture with indie pop sounds. I really feel like I'm part of the Colombian hustle life. There's so much confidence and sensuality exuding from this woman and it doesn't feel forced either. She feels like a real person you could run into and she'd be open to showing you around the neighborhood while also showing all the nightly hot spots. It's a very chill and fun song and will put a smile on your face easily.



"I'm About to Break You" by New Years Day
Unfortunately, I haven't gotten around to talking about another amazing female fronted rock band I came across on YouTube here. I don't know how that happened, but I do have a concert report queued up featuring them. Anyway, this is one of their latest music videos for their most recent album, Malevolence. One thing I've noticed when listening to this song is that they have definitely polished their signature sound even more. It's sexy, aggressive, and subtly playful. The vocals are just rough and raw enough, but still maintain control that it doesn't make your ears bleed. The visuals are very Mad Max: Fury Road inspired and certain elements remind me of In This Moment, but doesn't feel like a complete copycat. This definitely gets me pumped to listen to the new album!



"愛にいくよ" by AISHA
I believe I saw this video on my Facebook feed and it was quite refreshing to hear such talent. I've never been exposed to AISHA's music, but she gives me amazing vibes like BENI, JASMINE, and EMI EMARIE...oh, and lecca, which makes me happy. The video is very simplistic by only focusing on certain parts of her face or body as she sings, her running through the city, in a sparkly gown; and her in a bathtub with gold eyeshadow, but the simplicity works for this powerful R&B track. There's enough emotion exuding from the atmosphere and subtle gestures and acting given by AISHA. Perhaps, I should check out more of her music.



"NEVER EVER AGAIN" by GANGLION
I'm going to try really hard not to mention a certain band while I type about this music video. So far, every PV release I love these ladies more and more. They're very confident and comfortable with their rock style, both musically and visually. The visuals are just enough for this powerful rock tune. I love seeing Oni wandering around the warehouse dirty and determined. When the whole band is on the screen, or just watching their single shots, is simply satisfying. You can't help but smile as you see this amazing chemistry and spirit thrive through them all like it's a live show!

Quick Music Reviews

Taylor Swift - 1989 (2014, USA) | Rating: 5/5

Favorite Tracks: Blank Space; Style; All You Had to Do Was Stay; Out of the Woods; Clean; Wildest Dreams; This Love; Bad Blood

Taylor Swift's music has often been a guilty pleasure for me. Red was the favourite album until the release of 1989. There have been times when this album has been the soundtrack to my drive home. This is one of those albums where I enjoyed every song from start to finish. Miss Swift knows how to craft catchy songs that really sink into your memory. I'm pretty sure there are people who have Shake it Off or Bad Blood stuck in their heads even if they don't like her music. Her lyrics are well crafted and memorable. Some might try to take credit for her success, but it rests firmly on Miss Swift's considerable charms. She's the girl next door singing about the relationships that come and go throughout her life.

Highly Suspect - Mister Asylum (2015, USA) | Rating: 3/5

Favorite Tracks: Mister Asylum; Bath Salts; Bloodfeather; Lydia

This was a band that I was made aware of through listening to a local modern rock station. The song that I heard first was Lydia. I keep going back to it over and over. Every time it's on the radio, I crank the volume up and sing along at the top of my lungs. Bloodfeather had the same effect on me. The comparison to bands like Queens of the Stone Age are fairly accurate as far as the gritty style the band has. Johnny Stevens, vocalist and guitarist, has a memorable voice that blends well with their slightly chaotic sound. It's an ambitious first album. I'm looking forward to seeing how they follow it up.

X Ambassadors - VHS (2015, USA) | Rating: 2.5/5

Favorite Tracks: Renegades; Unsteady; Gorgeous

This is another debut album that has been quite successful as far as the singles go. What makes the songs so catchy though is the lyrics. Unsteady is quite poignant with lyrics about a potentially broken family. There's one sad thing that has stuck with me throughout listening to the album. The songs would be so much better stripped down to the way that Renegades, Unsteady and Gorgeous were for the Upstate Sessions that the band posted to their youtube/vevo channel. I find myself going back to those versions over again.

Raglaia - Creation (2015, Japan) | Rating: 2/5

Favorite Tracks: Remember; Break Down

Raglaia is the band that brings us the return to music for the former vocalist of Aldious. Rami has paired with K-A-Z (SADS), Ery (KillKills) and YOUTH-K!!! to form a band a bit similar to the one she left. One of the strengths of Raglaia is having K-A-Z on guitars. He's a skilled guitarist who has spent years working with a visual kei legend (Kiyoharu). My issue with this band lies entirely with Rami's vocals. There are times when it feels like she's stretching herself beyond her limits to hit notes that she shouldn't attempt. I'll stick with them a bit longer as I'm a fan of K-A-Z's guitar playing.

L'Arc~en~ciel - Wings Flap (2015, Japan) | Rating: 3/5

Favorite Tracks: 

When L'Arc~en~ciel releases a single, it's easy to have expectations on what the song will sound like. Wings Flap fits in quite well with what I'd expect from Hyde and co. However, that's also where the downfall comes in. It's a decent song with all the usual flare from Hyde's vocals. Yet, it's not memorable for those reasons. Honey ~L'Acoustic version~ falls into that same feel. I don't know if I would seek these out on my ipod, but I wouldn't skip them if they played.

Top Five Recommended Music Videos

It's rare that I listen to the radio these days. Usually, I just pop in a cd or listen to my ipod. There were a few days last week when I was a bit tired of hearing the same things over again. I decided to give the radio a chance which led to hearing some songs I wouldn't have otherwise. Below, you'll find the songs and videos that stuck in my head or made an impression.


Grizfolk - Troublemaker
I'd never heard of this band before. Troublemaker is from their debut album, 'Waking the Giants'. It has quite a catchy chorus that gets stuck in my head. There's something else about the song that I like, but can't quite put my finger on. I might have to check out the rest of the album to see whether it holds up to this catchy song. The video features a familiar face in The Walking Dead's Josh McDermitt (Eugene). I'm not sure how the kidnapping plot of the video relates to the song though.



Silversun Pickups - Nightlight
For a band that formed in 2002, Silversun Pickups didn't manage to show up on my radar. Their debut album was released in 2006. The song in question is from their fourth album, Better Nature, which was released in September 2015. Nightlight was one of those songs that slowly grew on me. I wasn't sure if I liked it at all. The more I heard it, the more I liked it. The dual vocals work well on the song. Their sound is pretty reminiscent of 90s bands like The Smashing Pumpkins. It was later that I discovered the video stars Meg Steedle (Boardwalk Empire). In seven minutes and forty-five seconds, the director has captured everything Ryan Murphy wished he could have done with American Horror Story: Hotel.



Miike Snow - Genghis Khan
My next choice features a James Bond inspired video. Miike Snow is a Swedish indie pop trio that formed in 2007. Once again, I'd never heard of them despite two of the members being responsible for songs like Britney Spears' Toxic. Their debut album was released in 2009. This song, however, was released in December 2015. From the opening seconds, it's quite an earworm. The lyrics depict a man who feels irrationally jealous about someone he's not quite sure he wants to keep in his life. I'm quite amused by the video! It's so campy and fun.



Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats - S.O.B
Where have I been for all these artists? Nathaniel Rateliff has been doing folk-pop since 2005. He formed Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats in 2013. Their self-titled release came out in August of 2015. The lead single, S.O.B., reminds me of old soul and blues songs. It's quite fun to sing along with. The video is a hommage to The Blues Brothers film from 1980. I'm quite curious to hear more from this group with their soulful sound.



Highly Suspect - Lydia
This trio traces their beginnings back to 2009. I'm really starting to wonder why I'm not listening to more modern rock radio. They released their second full-length album, Mister Asylum, in July 2015. Lydia was the first single from the album. It's a song that quickly stuck with me. It's not surprising that it peaked at number 4 on the mainstream rock charts. The video features a woman submerged underwater and unable to escape. It's quite a concept that ties in well with the lyrics.

Throwback Thursday: Linkin Park's "Reanimation" (2002)

Linkin Park - Reanimation (2002, USA)
Rating: 4.5/5
Favorite Tracks: Enth E ND, Frgt/10, Ppr:Kut, My Dsmbr

When it comes to remix albums, it's hard for them to live up to the greatness of the original tracks. Being a huge Linkin Park fan after the release of their debut album Hybrid Theory, I was curious what would come of this first remix album. Around the time the album was released, MTV2 did a special MTV:Playback featuring every track on the album. Looking it up now, I have learned that majority of the videos were specially made by MTV2 and only about 4-5 were or became "official". Nonetheless, I was pumped and, back then, I recorded the special on VHS and treasured it along with some other special features by the band.


"Opening" begins with some lovely strings and keyboard melody that gently lures you into this remix album. It's beautiful and soft introduction that eases listeners, while the piano carefully adjusts your ears to the first track. "Pts.Of.Athrty" features Orgy frontman Jay Gordon in an intergalactic robot battle. The song keeps the aggressive intensity in the lyrical delivery, letting Chester's words echo as he screams. Meanwhile, the music has a more electronic rock sound to it, stripping a few elements away from the original. This was the perfect jumpstart for the promotion of this album.


"Enth E Nd" features Kutmasta Kurt and Motion Man in a more hip-hop focused version of Hybrid Theory's "In The End" with Mike Shinoda. The video shows the three of them in the backseat of a car with a monitor and a DJ control panel. It's a very cool, stripped down take of the popular single that shows that the band really does straddle the fence of hip-hop and rock. The chorus maintains its pull for fans to sing along, even though the music quiets as Chester's voice is altered and played with by the DJ's hands.


"Frgt/10" features Alchemist and Charli 2na in an altered melody. "Forgotten" is a track I didn't listen to often from Hybrid Theory, so this new version was something I really enjoyed. It takes snippets of the original and repeats it throughout the verses, then it brings out a more hip-hop sound to the beat while still maintaining a few rock elements in the drums and electronic equipment. I really enjoyed the shared rap verses and the distorted singing chorus almost echoing toward your speakers. It's a very successful and slightly haunting remix compared to its original aggressive sound.


"P5hng Me A*wy" features Taproot's vocalist and guitarist Stephen Richards in an unforgettable (and probably disturbing or disgusting) remix that easily became one of my favorite tracks on the album. Stephen's vocals and the added electronic distortions and effects make it a bit ominous, but has an amazing build up that I always anticipate every time I listen to the song. I really enjoy how distant Chester's voice sounds in the beginning, then becomes more clear along with Mike's voice and the music. The altered and extended lyrics and vocal moments are very passionate and genuinely pleading to the listener's ears that you just want more. It was a pleasant surprise for the track that was an amazing ending to Hybrid Theory turned into an equally amazing remix. Every time the track ends, I feel sad that the journey is over, but excited for what's next on the album. "Plc.4 Mie Hæd" features Amp Live and Zion that leans more toward the band's rock sound. The song starts off with more sound effects than actual music while Mike raps the first verse. It's a track that I listen to more or less than the original. It has a good enough amount of energy from the dual vocals, but the guest rap by Zion can be a bit hit or miss in places (also depending on mood). "X-Ecutioner Style" is a short DJ scratching skills track that features Sean C and Roc Raida of The X-Ecutioners and Black Thought. The track mostly consists of scratches, fundamental hip-hop melodies, Chester's "Shut Up" line from "One Step Closer" that fans love to shout during shows, some musical snippets from "Cure For the Itch" and "One Step Closer", and a little rapping. It's a track I usually skip over. "H! Vltg3" features Evidence, Pharoahe Monch, and DJ Babu and is a track that I don't think I've ever listened to the original (or at least, not completely). Perhaps after writing this review, I'll give it a listen or two. From what I've gathered, this version of the song mostly retains its original form, but pulls back the beat to more outer space hip-hop sound with repetitive keyboard and more rap verses. Both "[Riff Raff]" and later "[Stef]" are simply answering machine/voicemail messages left for the members of the band and they're really not worth talking about. "Wth>You" features Aceyalone and showcases Chairman Hahn's turntable skills as he manipulates the original version. For the most part, it sounds almost exactly the same, but somehow sounds more...epic! Vocals sound more far away than others, Chester's bridge section and chorus sounds a bit more stretched out and more aggressive, and the music has some extra elements sprinkled here and there. Aceyalone's contribution fits in very well with the original lyrical arrangement as well. "Ntr/Mssion" continues a similar piano melody from the "Opening", but mostly bridging the transition from this song to the next, which the album does a lot of.


"Ppr:Kut" features Cheapshot, Jubacca, Rasco, and Planet Asia in an almost haunting and sped up version of the original "Papercut". I love the original and the remix is just as good. The music is almost exactly the same, but emphasizes the guitar and drum sections of the song. It definitely has a more panic sense about it and the guest rap verses are a great addition to the original lyrical layout by Chester and Mike.


"Rnw@y" features Backyard Bangers and Phoenix Orion in an epic journey of time restraints. The original track was something I would listen to every now and then, but something about this remix gives a feeling of urgency. For the most part, the vocal arrangement and music resemble the original quite a bit, but the lyrics are cut off in the chorus contributing to that urgent feeling along with the quieting and swelling of the music. The music video also emphasizes that feeling. My favorite part is Phoenix Orion's rap verse that gives you that moment to breath, although listening to the content of his words, I'm not completely sure how it relates to Chester's lyrics, but...whatever. "My Dsmbr" features Mickey P. and former Sneaker Pimps frontwoman Kelli Ali in a melancholy electronic rendition of "My December"; a track I've heard after the fact. This version of it is more sped up and has more musical elements than the duet piano and vocal arrangement of its predecessor. I think the pacing of this track makes me enjoy it more than the original as opposed to the order I heard both tracks. I enjoy Chester and Kelli Ali's vocals working together with a hint of support from Mike from time to time. It's a really beautiful track either version you listen to, but if you're like me and are picky about slow tracks, this version is your best bet. When I first listened to the album, I was looking forward to hearing what they were going to do with my favorite Hybrid Theory track, "By Myself". Unfortunately the Josh Abraham collaboration for "By_Myslf" disappointed me in areas. It lacked punch in places and the chorus was altered more than the previous tracks by changing the wording and pace of the delivery. I think the only part of the track that I genuinely enjoyed was the bridge with Mike partially rapping and Chester screaming, but for the most part, I think there was too much yelling and the beat didn't excite me. "Kyur4 th Ich" highlights Chairman Hahn's skills as a DJ and possibly one ups his original, "Cure for the Itch". It's easily an enjoyable track and I think he deserves more solos from time to time.


"1Stp Klosr" features The Humble Brothers and KoRn's vocalist Jonathan Davis in another track that I was looking forward to. Unfortunately, I found this track rather underwhelming and sounded too close to a KoRn song in a lot of areas. It has a nearly 2 minute intro before getting to the actual song that's more monotonous than exciting and it just doesn't live up to the high energy of the Hybrid Theory original. To my surprise, Staind's vocalist Aaron Lewis redeemed the conclusion to this remix album with "Krwlng". While it also contains a long intro before getting to the first verse, it actually has some sort of build up to the music and adds quiet vocal snippets from Chester and Mike. It's a very zen sounding remix that cleverly ties back to the "Opening" track of the album. I love the wondrous electronic sounds of the musical arrangement and even the dual vocals between Chester and Aaron. In short, it's a surprisingly beautiful remix to an anger filled song that kept me hooked to Linkin Park years ago.

Reanimation was a surprising and excellent follow up and remix to an equally excellent debut album. It was an album that truly solidified my support for Linkin Park and embraced my love (or obsession) for the band as my favorite American rock band. The album expertly displays the band's ability to take chances and experiment with their sound as well as elevate majority of their original tracks with the help of collaborations with other artists. It's definitely an album that no Linkin Park fan should skip out on!