Well, I thought I would try something new and actually post in my own forum. ;
While the immense anticipation builds for anything new RZ (myself included) I thought I would talk about some music I have been getting into lately.
For the first half of the year I was into all things heavy. Namely the new Strapping Young Lad, Opeth, Soilwork, Lamb of God to name a few. Actually, these albums got LOTS of play this year. I love tyring to sing along to this stuff and see how long my voice lasts. But seriously, these albums were all a nice fit for t me in terms of the productions, the songwriting, performances, lyrics...This is how I like my modern heavier metal.
On the flip side, I also enjoyed the new System of a Down. Mezmerise is a great album, save the last song. Hollywood doesnt do much for me. But the rest of the album is pure vibe. I love it. I haven't had a chance to really get into Hypnotize yet, but after a couple listens I already am getting it. On the commercial front, I also enjoyed the new Disturbed. Much of the same from them, but if you like it why fight it? And from the guilty pleasures pile I am a huge fan of Kelly Clarkson. Love her stuff and even saw her live this year and she was awesome! boy can she belt it!! I also don't care what anyone else has to say about it!
John Mayer Trio - Try! is really cool too. Its a live album and sounds like one too...be warned. Mayer has some promise as a good blues player. Not that this is Clapton caliber but its a good representation. His back up band Steve Jordan (drums) and Pino (bass) have played with some top names and groove really well...check it out if you are into blues.
The latter half of the year I have been into all things 70's. I missed much of the 70's growing up and have not overplayed any of that stuff so that I would be sick of it today...so I can still enjoy many of the classic releases from thast period without feeling like I have heard it a billion times...
Most recently, I can't get Pink Floyd Wish you were here out of my head. Its a great way to end the day. Relaxing and challenging at the same time. Also, Mahavishnu Orchestra Birds has been in a good rotation lately. A good friend also hooked me up with some old 70's prog and I have been enjoying that as well. Crucible s/t is a cool album. I wasn't expecting it to be mostly instrumental but when the voice came in I was reminded of a lighter (or heavier in some cases! haha) version of Dream Theater. Well, reverse that statement...but still. Also, Glass Hammer (can;t remember which album) was pretty cool as well. I really like the use of the old keys (organs, moogs, etc.)
So while this year wasn't a blockbuster for me in terms of new releases although there are many more I liked that I have not commented on, I am eagerly awaiting next year.....the new Devin Townsend Band should totally rock. And speaking of rocking my socks off, their will be a new Tenaicious D release as well...the soundtrack to the movie!
Anyway, if anyone reads this please feel free to jump in!
Joel
Reading Zero
While the immense anticipation builds for anything new RZ (myself included) I thought I would talk about some music I have been getting into lately.
For the first half of the year I was into all things heavy. Namely the new Strapping Young Lad, Opeth, Soilwork, Lamb of God to name a few. Actually, these albums got LOTS of play this year. I love tyring to sing along to this stuff and see how long my voice lasts. But seriously, these albums were all a nice fit for t me in terms of the productions, the songwriting, performances, lyrics...This is how I like my modern heavier metal.
On the flip side, I also enjoyed the new System of a Down. Mezmerise is a great album, save the last song. Hollywood doesnt do much for me. But the rest of the album is pure vibe. I love it. I haven't had a chance to really get into Hypnotize yet, but after a couple listens I already am getting it. On the commercial front, I also enjoyed the new Disturbed. Much of the same from them, but if you like it why fight it? And from the guilty pleasures pile I am a huge fan of Kelly Clarkson. Love her stuff and even saw her live this year and she was awesome! boy can she belt it!! I also don't care what anyone else has to say about it!
John Mayer Trio - Try! is really cool too. Its a live album and sounds like one too...be warned. Mayer has some promise as a good blues player. Not that this is Clapton caliber but its a good representation. His back up band Steve Jordan (drums) and Pino (bass) have played with some top names and groove really well...check it out if you are into blues. The latter half of the year I have been into all things 70's. I missed much of the 70's growing up and have not overplayed any of that stuff so that I would be sick of it today...so I can still enjoy many of the classic releases from thast period without feeling like I have heard it a billion times...
Most recently, I can't get Pink Floyd Wish you were here out of my head. Its a great way to end the day. Relaxing and challenging at the same time. Also, Mahavishnu Orchestra Birds has been in a good rotation lately. A good friend also hooked me up with some old 70's prog and I have been enjoying that as well. Crucible s/t is a cool album. I wasn't expecting it to be mostly instrumental but when the voice came in I was reminded of a lighter (or heavier in some cases! haha) version of Dream Theater. Well, reverse that statement...but still. Also, Glass Hammer (can;t remember which album) was pretty cool as well. I really like the use of the old keys (organs, moogs, etc.)
So while this year wasn't a blockbuster for me in terms of new releases although there are many more I liked that I have not commented on, I am eagerly awaiting next year.....the new Devin Townsend Band should totally rock. And speaking of rocking my socks off, their will be a new Tenaicious D release as well...the soundtrack to the movie!
Anyway, if anyone reads this
please feel free to jump in!Joel
Reading Zero
