Village People

To closer this batch of 34 consistant reviews, note not all were done every day (some done ahead of time), I decided this could be the only review the would stand the possible drought. The one that might be my last for a number of months. This is the debut album by NY's own. This also happens to be the gayest of all the Village People albums. Seriously every track is about a city/town with a large gay population. Released July 18th, 1977 this is album has a bit of a confusing history, for me at least. When researching it I have read that the only member to sing on here is Victor Willis. It said they had professional singers do the back up vocals, and while I can see that maybe, I just don't know. I know Felipe was one of the first members, though three of the members were replaced before the next album for certain. It also makes sense because those people who were replaced were because the ones you see on the Macho Man cover had more experience as a whole of what the group was, vs those other three guys. But at the same time I read they had models pose for the cover, so..... I don't really know, or really care enough to spend more time then I did researching this. Although, you can see the group members on the Telefunken release and you can visibly see different members as the biker, and two or three other people who don't have a specific job I can make out.

1. Medley: San Francisco (You've Got Me) / In Hollywood (Everyone is a Star): While originally released as one track, on CD reissues they are both separate. The first song starts and you can hear the sound that the group had was present right from the get go. Though the backing vocals aren't the regular ones. It makes sense that they used different singers, that's really the best reason. The chorus is pretty decent, but that "magic" isn't quite there yet. This is This first song may not be amazing, but the second half (In Hollywood) is far catchier than SF, but it's decent and pretty good none the less. The transition makes you kind of get pumped from it, I mean not like super pumped, but it's pretty nice. Love that bass, and the horn solo is nice. There is definitely a build for this second half. It might not go insane or nuts, but it is a build none the less (I know I said that twice). Victor also isn't as emotive.... or excited and into this maybe. This second section is so catchy, so infectious I dare you not to want to grove along. I mean the whole section feels very show bizy, then the chorus.... tasty. This is pretty fun, the instrumentation is so musical it's like a fucking musical. I'm waiting to hear a louder backing vocal and then see this number in a play. Really I'm fucking serious. If this was redone in the style of their later records.... 10 outta 10. For now more of a 6 or 7.
2. Fire Island: Make me want to lift bro. Eh, at this point this sounds like it blends in with the first tune, and it isn't anything that special. I mean there is nothing that makes me want to dance. Nice woodwinds though. Although, I did learn to not go in "the bushes".
3. Village People: Not many bands dare to have a self-titled track. Among the few Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Motorhead and Village People. This song, while still rather demo sounding, is easily the standout best track on the record. There is something, even though the rest of the album sounds like it isn't fully realized. But this just sounds like it's shit is there and together. This is the most Village People sounding this thing gets. And there is a power here that isn't really there on other records. I mean usually is seems almost jokey, but this sounds kind of not so jokey. Also great backing track, it's got some gorgeous vibes (or xylophone) and harps. It really is worthy of a listen or 10.

Overall I have to give this album a 5/10. I think the biggest problem with this record is the fact that it seems more like an Ep and also that it's more of a demo. This isn't anything mind blowing, but I still like that title track. It's worth a curious listen or so.

Motörhead

Recently, Lemmy passed away. Now I can't say I'm really a fan of this band, but I can say the first string of albums, at least up to Iron Fist (I haven't heard most of Another Perfect Day yet) are pretty solid all the way though. Of those albums, I remember this being my favorite. And while it's been a long time since I heard this album, I still remember enough to still fell the same. I may not be directly affected by this news, he has been in and out of the hospital numerous times these past few years, but you know it's better. No more worrying, no more him being sick. As much as it might seem weird to take it, for some people, I think death isn't the end. He's going to live on in the hearts of the people who love his music. That is where, more or less, he affects me. Many artists I love have been influenced by Lemmy so I really can't not do something to show I appreciate that he has, somewhat, affected my tastes and likes in music. Okay, this isn't the first album recorded, the first one recorded was On Parole. That was released in 1979, but features tracks recorded in 1975-1976. These were all recorded in 1977. The tracks ther were rerecorded were tracks 1-4 and 7. Also by reviewing this I'm going to reviewing everything released between 1977 and 1982. And probably Mean Machine (one of my favorite tracks by them).

1. Motörhead: This is a track, written by Lemmy, that was first featured as a B-Side  to King of Speed by Hawkwind in March 1975. Then obvioulsy, as stated earlier the whole On Parole, and now this 1977 version. I think this is probably the best recording of the track. When I hear this I think if punk. Like punk that is considered punk. Not hardcore or any other kind. Just punk. This is pretty raw, and sounds like it was done in one take. This song straight up rocks, killer playing, killer solo. This hasn't gotten old and I don't see it getting old any time soon.
2. Vibrator: Here's a factoid you may not know. This song was written Larry Willis, and another guy who isn't as important really, who was in early UFO. All that side, this is a rocker, and it really feels like punk. Like I could see Bonnie Rotten (haha) singing over this and it being on a Sex Pistol album. Or if Iggy sang over it it'd fit snugly on the Stooges debut or maybe Raw Power.
3. Lost Johnny: This is another straight forward track. There isn't much to say about this track that I haven't said before. Though this isn't as good as the last two track.
4. Iron Horse / Born to Lose: I really think the drums in this track are pretty cool, maybe it's my copy, but the bass is mixed way too low. I hear it doing some things, where I think it's interesting, but that could also be my imagination. I can't really make it out. The solo here is nice, but it's still nothing to write home about.
5. White Line Fever: I don't know if I ever heard this track but it always made me laugh. I don't know why, the title, but it just kind of did. Now that I hear it... I can say that it is very much in line with the other tracks.
6. Keep Us on the Road: There is a different feeling I'm getting from this track. While I can't pin it down, I can say this. It's nice for a bit to have a kind of different feeling. This is probably my favorite track so far that isn't the title track.
7. The Watcher: I really like this bass line, it's opening is pretty cool. This is very different from the rest of the tracks and stands out. This isn't my favorite version of the song, I prefer On Parole's version, but this is still a solid track. I do really like the ending, with the solos but there is something that I've heard with this same general melody at that part. I can't quite pin it down. Also I dig the phasing, reminds me of Hawkwind.
8. Train Kept A-Rollin': While the best version, seriously, of this is the 1974 epic by Aerosmith I still like this song. The Yardbirds have a great version, Tiny Bradshaw's original 1951 version is pretty great itself. I don't think I've heard a version of this I don't like. This is a pretty solid cover of the classic, and it's pretty similar to Aerosmith's version. I mean, besides maybe the change in the solo and vocals there isn't much new brought to the table with this verison. It closes, but it's not that much of a satisfying closer.

Overall I have to give this debut album by NWOBHM legends Motörhead a 6/10. This album has a more traditional punk feeling to it than later albums. Though punk is always present, to some extent, later records are more crushing (rock/metal). You could also argue on tracks like the title track and The Watcher there is still a Space Rock influence. Maybe I'm nuts, but I can imagine if it were a tad different it'd be one. This album is still a solid listen front to back, it's just that there isn't much variety. I don't know.... It's still fun to listen to . I feel like I should pick an album I know would get a better score, but I don't know. Maybe next time. Also, I can't wait to pick up Blackstar.

Electric Revolution

This is the debut Ep by Kenosha, Wisconsin band Electric Revolution. This was released earlier this year in 2014, and my friend Justin did a review here. I thought I would review this because it's an EP and the points he brought up were points I thought I could shed light upon.

1. Helpless: This opens the album up. I like that this has a hint of Draw The Line in there, and the tones are pretty cool. But the thing is, in today's day and age this might as well be a cover/tribute band with their sound. The vocalist sings ok, but nothing that amazes me. It probably hurts the songs more. Also the song structure isn't interesting. I'm picking up Yngwie 80'a vocalist flavor here, but is rather listen to him. Malmsteen's much more interesting. 
2. I'm Just Like You: This could pass as a Stone Temple Pilot track. You know, if Scott was afraid of singing out of tune so he doesn't try to hit pitches.
3. Hero: Hey, I didn't know the Pilots teamed up with Scott Stap, you know after he had his voice removed. This guy can't sing enough power into his songs.
4. The Love I Have: This song sounds like a Stray Cats song, and honestly is probably my favorite track here. I'm not saying it's good, just saying it's a nice little surprise. The vocals here remind me of Jerry Only. This actually could be a song off one of the Only led Misfits albums. Kind of Rockabilly flavorings here.
5. Brand New Day: There isn't anything I'ven't said earlier that I could say here. Maybe the slower parts that are heavier are cooler, but nothing that is great.
6. Gonna Make You Sweat: Justin mentioned jazzy drums, so I was looking forward to this track. The past two or three days I've been tampering with tones and listening to Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, The Ventures, The Shadows and other kind of things that would be jazz or surf music. Well, there isn't anything overtly jazzy here, this sounds just like an Aerosmith track, or maybe a Guns N Roses track. I know what he meant, but my hope was just a mis-communication.

Overall I have to give this EP a 4/10. These guys are a straight Steel Panther the thing is they aren't youthful and they probably won't ever change their sound. Also if they don't change a little tiny bit on their debut album I won't probably even take a chance listening to it. Sorry, if you want to check them out go on Spotify before you put up $5 for this ep. There isn't anything slightly revolutionary about this band.

Oingo Boingo EP

This is their self titled Ep released in 1980. It was produced by Michael Boshears and Jo Julian and released on I.R.S. Records. And thought this isn't from 2014 I am going to use this as a building block for my next album.... kinda. Well I thought I should do this before I do Only A Lad and you know that's their debut album.

1. Only A Lad: I'm going to be honest right now, I think that I prefer this verison of the title track from the 1981 Debut album. The production on this I think may not nessicarly be better I enjoy the sounds here. It also reminds me a little of The Forbidden Zone soundtrack. That and Edward Scissorhands is my two favorite things Danny Elfman's composed, you know like the score and stuff. This is so quick and  actually longer than the album version. I also love the guitar tones here. The "choir" part you know the "Society has made him go astray" sounds way cooler robotically than it does on the album. This sounds very clowny and just the tones on this track are beautiful.
2. Violent Love: This song, thought a cover, is one of my favorite songs ever. There isn't any other version, other than possibly their rerecorded 1988 Boingo Alive version of the song, that can even stand up next to this bad boy. This is a cover of a song that Willie Dixon wrote and was actually recorded at one point by Muddy Waters. The voices in the intro sound like Iggy Pop, and this is like a song that should make Ska a genre taken more seriously. I mean, yeah the lyrics are hilarious, but everything about this track from the vocals, to the guitar tones, to the production to the horn solo just make this song a prefect candidate for my favorite songs of all time. This reminds me of Good Lovin' in a way by Grateful Dead, but it's much better and not as boring upon repeated listens.
3. Ain't This The Life - 10" EP: If I'm correct the difference between the 10" and 12" is the drummer and the length. Not a big time difference, but still. This track.......... the harmony and the vocals and the every which way about this song screams to me. I'm infatuated with this track. And the fact that on their debut release, not the Demo EP or the 1976 single You Got You Baby Back (they were The Mystical Knights of The Oingo Boingo) this is great and makes anything after this live up to it. I still love the debut, but this is tough competition.
4. I'm So Bad: This sounds like an outtake from the Forbidden Zone, well it doesn't have a bunch of different singers, but Squeezit The Moucher doesn't either. While I don't think this track is as good as some of the others here, I still like that it's dark in contrast to the other tracks. I mean they all were, but this is darker sounding and more moody than the others. This also appears on the Demo EP from 1979.
5. Ain't This The Life - 12" EP: This sound quality is a little more foggy here, it's also 9 seconds shorter. The feeling on the 10" is what I perfer, but this is also crazy and probably more silly sounding. This is only included on the 12" and cassette version of the EP.

Overall I have to give this EP a 9/10. The Ep is a great beginning for a great band, and I just love this. I'd pay how ever much to get my hands on this vinyl copy.

Lou Reed

In the wake of this whole Lou Reed thing I decided to do a review in memory of him. I'm not a huge fan, but you know, why not to remember him. But Bowie loved him, he collaborated with Metallica, he made fucking Metal Machine Music, and he sang Perfect Day. Those are huge accomplishments in my book. So in honor of the litta' bastard from Brooklyn I decided to review an album I've been wanting to do, but was to lazy to, but now have an excuse. But seriously at the end of the day, if you could be half as important to music as Lou Reed then I salute you. Now enought talking and let's get down to the review.

1. I Can't Stand It: This song is pretty solid to start off the album. I like the women backing singers. This song appeared on The Velvet Underground's live album 1969. I like this version more then the VU version from the outtakes LP released in '85. This is a fun and good way to start out an album. The drums in the beginning remind me of the drum intro to the David Bowie song from 1970 The Supermen. This is in the same vein as Vicious but that doesn't make it bad. This version has more soul to it. The solo's also pretty solid for the track. The tone is great and I like it overall. This is the best version.
2. Going Down: In essence this is a ballad. This is a pretty good song, the only complaint it that I can't really hear Lou and the song drowns him. Other than that it's a great song. This song is really upbeat and is a fun short listen.
3. Walk and Talk It: This riff reminds me of BTO or another riff driven classic rock band. This song has a classic riff leading it and has those female backing singers again. This is a good song. When you compare it to the VU version it's faster and more exciting. It is a demo but more in the vein of the Grateful Dead or The Rolling Stones. This is the superior version.
4. Lisa Says: This song has that soul vibe to it that the rest of the album has. It's a pretty good song, but I'm starting to run out of other words to say for these songs. I hope that changes a little. The song seems to change after a drum "fill"  into Goodnight Ladies. Not lyrically, but musically. Minus the horns. It's a pretty great song to dance to. For me to dance to at least. Then repeats to the beginning of the song until the end. It's long, but it's length is justified.
5. Berlin: Later rerecorded as the title track for his 1973 album, this originally appeared here. On this version it's longer, by like two minutes. The version on Berlin is kind of like a piano/vocal sole song. It's got an avant-garde feel to it there. This version has more of a jazz feel to it. This song feels like it might be played in a jazz club. This is a pretty relaxing song. This is a pretty great ballad, and is better than the titular track version. Damn, this is another great solo that fits the song.
6. I Love You: This sounds like Never Going Back Again. That song didn't come out until 1977 on Fleetwood Mac's classic Rumours. There is a country vibe to this song that is just missing the twang. But I like that there isn't a twang. That'd kind of be overkill.
7. Wild Child: This is song reminds me a ton of Let Me Sleep Beside You. That's an unreleased, at the time, song by David Bowie from 1968. It's very eerie how similar they are. The pre-choruses melodies are very similar. You need to listen to them back to back and then tell me what you think. This is a good song, but I kind of like the "Bowie" version more. The bass line in this song though is sick. I like the gallop of it. 
8. Love Makes You Feel: This is a love song. I don't think it's amazing, but I do like the drums in the chorus. This is a fun song, but it's not the best on the album. I also like the acoustic guitars at the end.
9. Ride into the Sun: This has a funky intro, and kicks the Velvets demos ass. This is a pretty great song that would probably be fun to play. The song kind of goes down hill for me, but the solos good. Maybe it's because I'm tired, but still.
10. Ocean: This track was another outtake from Loaded that Reed reused. The outtake isn't that bad. If you have to compare it to the official version its not as powerful. This track closes Reed's first solo album. This is a pretty song and its pretty tough. It doesn't seem like it's gonna pussy out on you. The piano sounds sick and the arpeggios in there. This kind of paints a picture of an ocean with the sounds. Great ending for the album and kind of makes me want to listen to Transformer in whole. This has an epic finish feeling to it. I also like the outro of the song. You'll have to see yourself.

Overall this album gets a 7.4/10. What do I think about reusing outtakes for solo albums, well The Beatles did it. Not Guilty, Teddy Boy, Jealous Guy, Circles, All Things Must Pass, and more than just that. So yes, it's kind of cheap, but if it's good, it's good. Also how could you say no to that cute little bird on the cover. Yes this isn't as good as Transformer, but it is essentially a first solo album. Starting his own thing, but also taking use of his past to try and make himself. If we can learn anything from Lou it's that "your going to reap just what you sow". So all I can say to that is Goodnight Ladies, Goodnight Lou, Goodnight world. Lets look forward to a better tomorrow. :)

John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band

This is the "debut" solo album by John Lennon. Now we all know, hopefully, about Unfinished Music No. 1, Unfinished Music No. 2, The Wedding Album, and Live Peace in Toronto 1969. So, actually, this is album no 5. It was also released, December 11th 1970, the same day as Yoko's solo "debut" album Yoko Ono/Plastic Ono Band. I'vent heard that yet, but I kind of want to. I like Unfinished Music No. 1 a lot. I like how it is really not amazing. It's musique-concrete, kind of like Revolution 9 off the 1968 Self-titled album. Which Two Virgins also came out that year. (Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins). Now, John wasn't as weird of a guy as everyone thinks. He didn't name an album after a particular type of shower, one from which you gain sexual gratification. I'll review that album some time in the future, maybe this month. Well anyway, I don't have time to rant, let's just get this review going. Note; I did this through my iPod, so I might not have everything annotated when this goes up right away

1. Mother: This song is a good song. I don't know why, but this. The drum beat on this song is solid. Johnny is singing pretty solid on this song. This is a pretty emotional song if you listen to it. It is kind of touching. I know he had a messed up childhood, but you know, I think he could have learned from his past and been a better person. And that scream at the fade
2. Hold On: This is kind of a seductive song. I like the way the guitar sounds. It has this jazzy feeling to it.
3. I Found Out: This song reminds me of Gimme Some Truth or Yer Blues. I love the distortion. The verses remind me of his 1975 Rock 'N' Roll album. I don't care much for that, but it has some good songs on it. This is a pretty solid song though.
4. Working Class Hero: This is my favorite song off this album. I think it's actually, not probably is, the most relevant song of his today. When your in the working class you might not be looked as highly upon as the rich, but at least you "try". You aren't living off the government  you aren't a Democrat. No but in all seriousness, you need to take care of you and your family, not rely on some group of people to do it. If you can try to take care of the family, that will make you a hero. "If you'd like to be like the ones on the hill", "The Fool on the hill". Is that a Paul dig.
5. Isolation: For some reason I forget about this song. And, well, it's probably one of the best. The beat and the piano makes this a song that I feel touched by. This song, a stretch, reminds me a tad of Happiness is a Warm Gun. One of my favorites off the Self Titled.
6. Remember: I can't remember the last song. No but seriously, you know, I am not nuts about this song. The chorus is solid though. I don't know, this song just seems like its just there, for me at least. There's a surprise at the end.
7. Love: This is probably a song most people know. You know, this reminds me of the Real Love acoustic demo. But without the chorus.
8. Well Well Well: This is a bluesy song. I feel like this isn't as interesting as Hold On. It's kind of annoying. He does make a Revolution reference though.
9. Look At Me: I can't say I remember this song either. It's been a while since I heard it last. And this totally reminds me 100% of Julia. It is a pretty song though.
10. God: You could argue this is the most quotable song by John's solo material. Either this or Imagine. This is the song where he says "I don't believe in Beatles", and David Bowie's response 31 years later was "I believe in Beatles" from the 2002 song Afraid. He also lists a bunch of things that he doesn't believe. He only believes him and Yoko. It's kind of poetic. At least he has some type of faith.
11. My Mummy's Dead: For being the shortest song it's kind of a weird way to end the album. With a radio type of feeling. I like it. But you already talked about your mom.

Overall I really don't care for Johnny. I kind of don't like the type of person he was, and I think Post-Beatles, he wined too much. But this album, this album is different. I don't exactly know why, but the complaining doesn't get too much for me on this album. I think that Paul was a better poet, but that's just me. But this album gets a 8.7/10. I feel like this is Overrated, but it is still a good album. The next album, thought from 1974, is a new favorite of mine. The hint to you is that it's referenced in the above paragraph with the intro. And it's not a Beatles one. FYI, Band On The Run is better Rolling Stone Magazine.

Aerosmith

This is the 1973 debut album by one of my top ten favorite bands, Aerosmith. I figured that, since I already kind of know what Music From Another Dimension! will most likely be getting, Why not do a quickie that will help explain the review of that one. Go back about 4 years to a boy, 13, who was obsessed with the video game Guitar Hero. He had gotten each, since the "80's Edition", on the day they came out. Now imagine anticipating this new "Guitar Hero: Aerosmith" the first game in the series based off a band. I know my mom liked them, and I did kind of like them before I heard about the game. Well I anticipated that game. When I got it the day it came out I beat it in a day. I'm pretty sure it was in Expert too. Well anyway, I needed to get a copy of Train Kept A-Rollin for my iPod, and the Rockin' The Joint version wasn't doing it for me anymore. So I ordered the Get Your Wings cd off their website. Soon after that I got Rock in A Hard Place for the song Lighting Strikes. Well those albums are both awesome. Since then I have all but like 3 or 4 compliation Cd's and I think 3 of the Live Albums and 3 box sets. I have, now, all the studio albums (minus MFAD!). Well that was a lot. They were the first band I ever really go into. This was one of the last Cd's I got by them. I actually just the winter, got a vinyl copy of the 1975 reissue of the album. I like that version more then the CD. It has more of a "Blues" vibe to it. I'll explain that in the review though. I don't know if I mentioned this already, but these guys were my first real ''favorite'' band. This also was released the same day as Bruce Springsteen's debut on the same label. I have that on vinyl and cassette.

1. Make It: This songs starts the album. This is probably one of the most solid intros to an album I've heard. When the lead guitar comes in with the vocals, UH! It sounds beautiful, the Joe's tone for some reason is just so crunchy. This is a true crunch for guitar. The little guitar fill right before the solo. And the solo the tones of the guitars are amazing. The vinyl only makes the tone sounds about 100 times more crunchy. But that's a little beside the point. What I'm trying to say is in the intro you can hear someone clicking something. Now when you listen to this song it kind of sounds like they did one take. Look at it like this, "Hey were broke. We got a deal for an album. But we don't got enough money to do a million recordings of these songs. So it's a one take jam. What gets mixed in is mixed in. Fuck It".
2. Somebody: This song more so than the last, the intro riff is playing to start the song off and you can heard a up strum on, I assume, Brad's guitar. There are also a couple of parts in this song where it kind of sounds like there are some ''mess ups''. Which are quintessential on a "true blues" album. If you want that blues feeling you need to just pump out the jam and make it work. I love the way Tyler sings along with the guitar solo in the song. It kind of reminds me of what he did in the solo for the title track off 1977's Draw the Line. That is probably my favorite Aerosmith album. I love the vocals at the end when they like ''double'' and the ending of the song where you can hear the feed back.
3. Dream On: I don't think you can hate this song. This is the only song that I don't think they could have done in 1 take. At one point I could play this entire song on guitar. I like how the "All these line's on my face are getting clearer" is a, most likely, cocaine reference. I never would have realized that if some on didn't point it out to me. The bass on this song is super cool. The drums in the background are hard to hear during the verses, but they're there. The piano in this song super sick that it's playing along with the guitar solo in the song. This song is such a super uplifting song. This was one of my favorite songs, and it helped me get interested in the band. The song kind of sounds like it's messed up a little at the very end.
4. One Way Street: The intro to this song is just pretty cool. If you listen I think you can hear a laugh. I'm not positive, but I think you can. This song is a very bluesy one. There is a harmonica solo in the song. There is also kind of commentary from Steven in this song. And that also adds to this being a ''true blues'' album. The guitar solo in this song, which I often forget about, is pretty damn solid. I love how in this song, along with most of this album, there are parts where it kind of sounds like Joey is beating the shit out of his drums. I like the like ''fade away'' then ''fade back in'', thought there isn't a volume change and the bass is pretty consistent with not stopping. That kind of reminds me again of Draw the Line. Not the part when it's just Steven and the drums, but like 3/4th of the way through. At the very end of this song, like probably at like 7:01.5 there is a little sound. I think that's someone who's about to talk.
5. Mama Kin: There is sax in this song. There is actually kind of like ''hidden'' in the beginning. The way it sounds there is that it kind of reminds me of when me and one of my friends recorded a song, and since we weren't really paying attention, part of the song was in the background of a later part of the song. You can also hear like a hand clap while the guitar and the vocals are alone. This song is so sick. This song is super energetic. I love how this is a bluesy song, and they kind of add an element of Sax. They also did that with I Ain't Got You off the 1978 Live! Bootleg album. That song was recorded live around like 1973 so I could see that probably being like then.I almost think this was the last song recorded and it was in a big room where they were like, "Here's how you play it, GO!" I feel like they had fun with this one. This is an awesome way to start out side 2.
6. Write Me A Letter: I like the way this song sounds. One thing is that it's better on the vinyl. I know I sound like I'm on the band wagon, but I'm telling the truth, from personal experience. I like the way that the guitar sounds right before the harmonica/guitar harmony. I don't know why, but I always forget about the like bridge of the song. That is probably the best part. Where it's like he's talking along with the guitar. I always forget, but it's funny because I love it each time I hear it.
7. Movin' Out: This song is the quintessential ''true blues'' song what I think of when I think of the like ''production'' of this album. This song has like a cough and just, I can't really even explain it how much I wish I could. This type of production is what is like ''BLUES''. I'm not putting other blues down, but when I think of hard rock/blues/blues rock this is the song I think of. This is one of my favorite songs in... ever. I wish they'd write more songs like this together now, Tyler/Perry. The new album has the first solo joint Tyler/Perry credit a studio album since Fever off 1993's Get A Grip. That 19 fucking years Holmes. Damn song writing partners. I know that an unaccredited studio guitarist played the Last Child solo, but that's different from the co-writing the song. {10/10}.
8. Walkin' the Dog: I think that this is my least favorite song. It's kind of funny a cover is my least favorite. The Rolling Stones did a cover of this song on either their debut or Rolling Stones 2 album. There a harmonica in the beginning, I think, that sounds like kind of jungle. This song is solid, but I don't really think it's my favorite song on the album. This is a song they didn't write and I think it's funny about how I'm talking about blues and this is a cover. I like the grunts Steven does and the kind of "do do do do dodo" harmonica sound during the ''solo''. I still like the guitar tone and the bass and drums on this song after the chorus, but it's kind of hard for me to say something negative really about this song.

Overall I have to give this album a 9/10. This is, in my opinion, a "true blues" album. 5 ''broke'' guys who only have enough money for one take of each song and we have to pay for this big open room. So there will be mistakes in there, but hey "Fuck It", it's good enough. That is what I'm getting from this album, and it is no doubt their bluesiest album, more so than the "Blues Cover Album" Honkin' On Bobo. Every song on this album, but 3, were written sole by Steven Tyler. That makes me question, what the hell happened since 1973. Well, beside the drugs and stuff. I'll explain better in the Music from Another Dimension! review. Movin' Out and Face 2 of my favorite song, along with some others, but those are like top 2. I also want to mention that I'm not putting other styles of blues down, but I just think that his is kind of like the nitty gritty sound blues should have. You know what I mean. Like classic blues at least.

Elliott Smith

This is the sophomore solo effort by singer/songwriter Elliott Smith. I found out about this guy by google searching albums that came out on July 21st. One other album was Appetite For Destruction, and though I think it's a good album, I like this one more. I actually think that this is a really good, solid album. But I listened to it and, well, I'll explain more in the review. I've been pumped to do this thing since I first started doing reviews, and I have planned on doing this one on my birthday.

1. Needle in the Hay: This is a depressing song, and along with the others, have Elliott playing acoustic guitar and singing. This is a dark song, and it is kind of pretty to. This song is a good song, and honestly remember able, at least for me, chorus.
2. Christian Brothers: This song kind of makes me think that the name fits it. Like the music that goes along to the album. This song has a country flavor that kind of makes me think of Simon & Garfunkel.
3. Clementine: This song could actually be a song that was composed by Paul Simon. Like maybe be on his Paul Simon Songbook from 1965. The album that was released after the first "break up" of Simon & Garfunkel duo. It was released after their 1964 debut Wednesday, 4 A.M..
4. Southern Belle: This song kind of reminds me of a song on 1966's Sound of Silence. That is also one of my favorite albums of all time. I really dig the vocals on this song and how it has an aggression the rest of the songs don't really have. The best part is the ending with the vocals where he sings loud and almost enraged, in his whisper quite vocals. 
5. Single File: This is also another songs where it is kind of reminds me of the 1966 Sound of Silence album.
6. Coming Up Rose: This sounds like other people are playing on the song. I think that it might have accordion in it. The guitar solo in it is also really cool sounding. This song sounds like there is an entire band playing. This song has a type of, after thinking about it, a Grateful Dead vibe kind of. Like one of their softer songs.
7. Satellite: I think that this is a pretty sounding song. I don't think that there is much for me to say beyond that 
8. Alphabet Town: I think that there is a harmonica in this song.
9. St. Ides Heaven: This songs sounds like it feature a full band.
10. Good To Go: This is also a pretty song. It sounds like this is a heartfelt feeling, if that makes sense.'
11. The White Lady Loves You More: I don't know exactly how to explain this song. This is a songs that sounds like, at least to me, a weird chord progression. I don't know, I might be crazy. 
12. The Biggest Lie: I think that this is a good way to end the album. Also a good song.

Over All I have to give this a 9/10. This thing is like a more depressing, solo album of a guy whole sounds like the Simon & Garfunkel duo. It's a shame that he died, I wish that he didn't. I almost feel bad for how dark sounding this is, not evil, but dark. This thing has textures and isn't just one recording. He made it sounds very pretty. I couldn't think of it at first, but it kind of has this folky Grateful Dead vibe going on in it too.

Weezer (The Blue Album)

This is the debut album by 90's alternative band Weezer. The first real time that I heard of these guys, to where I could remember, was in Guitar Hero 3. They had the song My Name Is Jonas in the game, and I remember trying to beat it. I couldn't and it drove me nuts. Well when I finally did on Expert I was glad. After that I heard Buddy Holly in the original Rock Band. Then one of my friends showed me Pork and Beans. Well I'd never really given this whole album a try so, this is it. I know I really liked Pinkerton. Funny fact, I think that Rivers on this album cover reminds me of Josh from College Humor, the website. And Pat reminds me of my cousin Heather's boyfriend TJ. Another thing is that Brian also reminds me of Patrick from College Humor.

1. My Name Is Jonas: I like that this song is so mellow, for the most part. The ending picks up and is more energetic, leading up to a guitar solo then an outro harmonica solo. The song then finally ends with that arpeggio thing. But the intro with that acoustic guitar arpeggios sound pretty. It has this Spanish feel to it, and it keeps my attention through the song.
2. No One Else: This song is a classic sounding Weezer song. This song is, I would describe it as, Alternative Punk, but I don't know. This song is one where I could see being a punk song. Not a Misfits or Stooges song, but like the punk that was from the decade of the 1990's. I don't really like these song. I'm not huge on Weezer, and songs like this are the reason.
3. The World Has Turned and Left Me Here: This is another classic Weezer sounding song. The one thing that I've noticed is that almost all Weezer song sound the same. This song is not an exception. I wish that there were more songs like El Scorcho or Island in the Sun. There were songs on Pinkerton that sounded like this, but at least they changed it up a little. Like the piano intro on Across the Sea. This song isn't anything that has grabbed my attention.
4. Buddy Holly: I HATE THIS SONG. Well I don't actually hate it, but I can't stand it. It drives me nuts. I know this song is a little different sounding than their other songs on this album, but I just want to shoot Buddy Holly (Not Literally). I just don't like this song at all. I feel like I contradicted myself with what I said in the last track, but This is one of those different song exceptions. This song is too upbeat and annoying to me. It's like they are too happy, almost gay.
5. Undone -- The Sweater Song: I like this song. There is this type of surfer feel to it. Like the instrumentation, not just the guy talking in the beginning of the song. This song is kind of catchy, not as much as some others, but still I like it. This song has this cool sounding distortion to the guitar solo in the song. This is accompanied by a louder buried acoustic guitar. That acoustic guitar strumming helps the solo sound better. The song kind of falls apart at the end and ends with this plucking of piano strings. It sounds really odd for a Weezer song.
6. Surf Wax America: The title of the song fits the style of it. They say surfing a million times before the chorus. The riff in the song reminds me of some type of pop riff from the 80's. I think that it's cool sounding, and I like the double bass pedal in the song. This song is pretty fast, and it is good. I think Rivers did a good job on this one. During the breakdown the song completely changes style and sound. It almost turns into an a Capella type song. Then it obviously turns back to the chorus. But that whole breakdown is sick and adds this almost shocking atmospheric feeling for me.
7. Say It Ain't So: This is another song that I heard via Rock Band. I like this song and I think that it is catchy. This song is a different tone from the rest of the album. The reason isn't just the more mellow, depressing feel to the song, but also the lyrics. I feel like this song is a song about his past. I later checked and I was right. It's talks about his idea of why his parents got divorced, and that his step father was becoming an alcholoic to. This song has two guitar solo part. This is sick, and the bass player is rocking on this track. This song is overall one of River's most impressive song's, and probably his best, that he's written, at least to my knowledge. {9.8/10}
8. In The Garage: Yeah this one. The harmonica intro really gives me this bad feel to the song. I don't really think that this song lives up to Say It Ain't So but more on the list with Buddy Holly. I can stand this better, but it isn't. The guitar solo kind of reminds me of blur's solo in Coffee & TV off their 1999 album 13, a song that I really like a lot. Comparing this song to Buddy Holly might have been a little harsh. It's more of a No One Else on my list of songs by Weezer.
9. Holiday: This song is good. I like this song. This isn't on my list of songs that I think stink by Weezer. I just think that this is a good song. I like the vocals and the overall feel I get from the vocals and the instruments. The bass is sick in the song, especially at the breakdown. I feel like they were going for a barbershop quartet in a part of this song, and well... it worked. This is a different song, and for that I applaud them
10. Only in Dreams: This song has this bass that opens the song. Then comes in an out of tune acoustic guitar and a drum. This is a long song, and you know what I have to say this is the most mature Weezer song. Not in terms of lyrics and content, but musically. It's a shame they'd make this then eventually make songs like Beverly Hills. That bass riff in the beginning pulls me in. The dynamics and contrast in their song are awesome and I think it's the ultimate Weezer song. And awesome solos at the ending.

Overall I give this 1994 album a 8.5/10. I don't think this is an amazing album, but it did impress me a lot. I didn't think that this album would have as many surprises as I was expecting. This is an album I would suggest to anyone who likes any song off this album or just wants to give these guys a try. Another album to check out, my favorite, is Pinkerton. These are both two really good '90s alternative rock albums you should check out. And I look forward to reviewing all Weezer albums in the future.

EARL - Earl Sweatshirt

This is currently the only solo mixtape released by the rapper Earl Sweatshirt from the rap group OFWGKTA. I've reviewed Frank Ocean's mixape Nostalgic, Ultra, The whole Odd Future gang's The OF Tape Vol. 2, and Tyler, The Creator's sophmore album Goblin so far. I plan on reviewing all of their stuff. ALLL OF IT!!!! You know why, "Cuz I'm... Mother Fucking Radical". No but seriously I've learned that with these guys their stuff is a lot to take, at least for me. See Goblin has grown on me, certain parts on Nostalgic, Ultra went every way, grew on, against, or stayed the same to me. That's why I'm gonna take my time reviewing this mix tape. It starred this review 3.25.12 and well see when it goes up. Also I think that this is going to be an interesting review. Hopefully I'll be able to put on Odd Future solo effort each week day, this week. I'm going to upload two on Friday because I messed up with Monday. This is going up on 3.28

1. Thisniggaugly: This song is more of an intro to the mixtape. It is just a really short song like a minute and a half. This song isn't that crazy amazing. It sounds like them dicking around.
2. Earl: This song is kinda scary. I could see someone being intimidated by this song.  This was the first song by Earl that I heard. This song was unattractive to me at first, but it is kind of cool. 
3. Couch Featuring Ace Creator: This is a song that continues this Goblin Demos feel for me. I think that this song is pretty ok. I love how Tyler mentions Twilight, and Kelly Clarkson in this song. This also has this same aggression to it that would be on Goblin.
4. Kill: This song is on the list. I do think that this song has a very strong and good flow. I really like this song a lot. Another thing is the pop culture references and illusions he uses on this song is sick. I think that this is probably one of the best bashes I've heard. He just but fucks everyone on this song. His bashes are better than anything that I've ever heard anything Em say EVER! {11/10}
5. Wakeupfaggot: This song has this sample of like trumpets and strings in the beginning. This song is like a skit. But it is a weak skit. It's he is mad at his mom for waking him up.
6. Luper: This song makes up for the poor attempt at a skit. This is defiantly a piano part that was used on Yonkers. This beats hurt it, but they don't.
7. epaR Featuring Vince Staples: This song has a dub step beat...... NO!!!! The beginning kind of scared me. But it kind of ends, so to say. This song is fucking sick. Vince reminds me so much of Em on some  song where he would be in the Shady persona.
8. Moonlight Featuring Hodgy Beats: This song starts out with the futuristic outer space sounds. Then Earl and Hodgy's voice is distorted, kind of like The therapist for Bastard and Goblin. I'm not that crazy about this song, but it think it kind of works for the name. When I heard the name and the title, it reminded me of like the levels in Pokemon with the ghosts Pokemon and stuff.
9. Pigions Featuring Wolf Haley: They mention "Kill People, Burn Shit, Fuck School" in this song. That is also the anthem of Radical on Tyler, The Creator's 2011 sophomore effort Goblin. This song is really good. I like this a lot and can look over the massive use of the word swastika. I really think that this song is Bad Ass {9/10}
10. Stapleton: This song is another song that I could see on Bastard. Yesterday, I got a taste of Bastard and it's basically like Goblin, but worse produced beats. This is comparable to Bastard more so than Goblin. This is the song were he mentions the KKK. This song's flows are ok, but what hurts the song for me is the beats. I don't really think that the beat compliments the flows.

Overall I have to give this mixtape a 7.5/10. These song has this scary beat to it. One that I could see being on something like "Goblin demos". If you know what I mean, by that its not like as good quality sounding beats as Goblin, but Goblin isn't that good beat quality either. I don't love this song, but that's because I feel like it's a little too much. It feels like it's a lot to take in, it isn't not Kanye, or Rhianna where it takes one listen to see if you like it. In the beginning I was scared to listen to this, and I wouldn't like it, but I LOVE THIS MOFO. The first time I heard tracks Kill that set my interest and I was addicted. It was also a really quick 23 minutes. It was also very interesting. Something else that I noticed was that they mentioned the KKK a lot in their rhymes. I have to fix something so I went back and added something.

Van Halen III

This album is supposedly Van Halen's forgotten album. The album cover isn't that attractive, It was released in 1998, Sammy wasn't on it and they had that singer from Extreme on it. Now I'm not a Halen addict but I do like some of their stuff. Their first album is their best, then 1984 is also good. There are various other songs off various other albums that I like but beside that, that's pretty much it. So going looking at this I thought it was a joke... until I accidentally listened to A Year To The Day.

1. Neworld: This is an acoustic piece that is accompanied by a piano. It has this type of a country/classical feel to it. It is also I think a good way to start something new. #NewSinger should bring new style. And it's more chords than soloing.
2. Without You: The drums pick up right where the acoustic guitar in Neworld's harmonics end. This is powerful song. I think that this has more power behind it than A Different Kind of Truth. This song has backing vocals that sound like they are being drowned underwater. The verses guitar somewhat resembles something like the Red Hot Chili Peppers but good. Cuz Anthony Keidas sucks major cock. This song sounds like they are experimenting a little more and I applaud them for that. It isn't that extremely different but it has a different feel. The singer sounds like a medium between Sammy and David. It also sounds like there is more acoustic electric guitar on this album than the others.
3. One I Want: The beginning of the riff sounds something like Panama. The bass in this song is more funky and it is the drums are a little overshadowed by everything else. The backing vocals are also a little buried in the mix. This song is something that I could picture Dave singing on. This is still a cool song. Though I could picture Roth on this song, they changed it to fit the singer a little more. The guitar at parts sound like a sitar. There is also picture Sammy singing on this.
4. From Afar: The beginning fades in with Eddie playing arpeggios of chords. Then the riff comes in and sounds like something off 5150. The first album to feature Sammy Hagar as the singer, and the beginning of Van Hagar era. This song feels like it has this feel of bigness to it. There is the bass that at parts makes a pounding noise. The persuasion on this song sound like it is going to get bigger. The song doesn't really get that much bigger. But the false feel of that is a good one. The pre-solo in this song sounds chaotic, by that I mean that it sounds like he was hitting random notes and put them in different channels. There is also parts in the song where the vocals remind me of Alice Cooper.
5. Dirty Water Dog: The beginning of this song starts out with drums pounding along with what sounds like someone using sandpaper. I could picture this on For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge. I know that they did some weird stuff like that with Sammy but this has a different feel. The guitar in this song is just has this over all plucked sound to it where it is awesome. This also has a touch of Finished What You Started. 
6. Once: The beginning of this song starts with a piano and an acoustic guitar. The acoustic guitar has this type of distortion to it that reminds me of Buckethead's 1998 album Colma (which will hopefully go up soon). This has much more of a lounge feel to it than any other Van Halen song. This song is really cool and also has this type of 90's pop music appeal to it. This reminds me of that music I used to hear when I was younger and 90's music was still popular during the 2000's. I was 2 and a half when this came out. This also has a type of a soul feeling to it, this somewhat reminds me of, dare I say, Titanic. I could see this being on the sound track. Another thing is that the guitar solo is in the mix on this song, not over powering everything and goes to the fade. This
7. Fire In The Hole: There is a outer space sounds that are in the beginning of the song and are then followed by a riff. There isn't much difference between this song and any other song on the album. Each song sounds different and you can tell, but this one just doesn't stand out like some of the others. The instrumentation at parts are really cool and sound driving, but that doesn't mean that it's that different. There is a part right after the solo in this song that sounds evil. It lasts like 5 seconds but it is pretty cool. I like how the singer is talking to the fade of the song.
8. Josephina: This sounds like, from the chords in the beginning, an 80's ballad. One problem with Van Halen was their songs had a distinctive sound to it. This song sounds like it is a different step for them. Parts in the guitar remind me of Misty Mountain Hop. I don't know why but it does. This song just has a totally different feel to it than other Van Halen songs. This song has a guitar solo that sounds like the beginning of Panama. The distortion of animal sounds and stuff. This song is pretty cool and just an interesting way to look at them in a different light. And yes there is sounds of a Carnival at the end of the song that last past the fade.
9. Year To The Day: Now I'm not very old, I'm 16 years old. I haven't been around a long time. But I've grown up listening to classic rock and I've gone wayward musically with suggestions and my own ideas. Now I'm not a perfect person and stuff, I don't really see what that has to do with anything. But I have not been hit with a Van Halen song this hard for a couple years. They have progressively lost their edge as I have grown older into my mid teen years. This song is the exception. This song is fucking the shit. The clean Spanish sounding guitar part in the beginning of the album reminds me of any classic Eddie solo song. The thing that's different about this song is that it can make me cry. The lyrics on this song are simple but they are actually good. This song is very pretty and builds, This is kind of like Stairway to Heaven, in the way that it builds, but it stays there and continues to drive on, until the end. The solo in this song is so different than any other Van Halen thing I've ever heard. It just feels so fresh. This IS! my favorite guitar solo I've heard Edward play. {12/10}
10. Primary: This song is like a new revamped alternate Eruption but for like a sitar or something. 
11. Ballot or Bullet: This song is different. I don't recall ever hearing a Van Halen song sound this way with this distortion. The vocals sound strained. The lyrics aren't amazing, but when are they when it comes to theres guys. This song sounds like it was influenced by Extreme but with a Van Halen twist on it. This song is ok. I don't exactly know how I feel about it. There is also a type of garage rock feel to the riff of the song. Kind of like The White Stripes, the guitar sounds pretty cool and he obviously uses a slide on this song.
12. How Many Say I: To date this is the only song that Eddie does lead on. How sick is that . Eddie's vocals are surprisingly warm feeling. Though he doesn't sound amazing he sounds like his voice is fit for the piano. The way they sing the chorus sounds very cool. This song is the furthest thing away from their traditional sound I've heard. There is really no question in the matter, it is a fact. This song is pretty and shows that Eddie isn't just a guitarist. It's a shame that he hasn't sung more than lead this once. The piano is accompanied by strings from a brief stint. There is a keyboard what I want to call movement that makes me cry. This is an awesome way to end a new start and say get the fuck ready for the next album with this new sound. I am legitimately shocked at this song. Never would I think that they would do this. Ever. {9.8/10)

Overall I give this a 9.8/10. I respect that this is the lonely Van Halen album in their discography and is overshadowed by all the factor that contribute to it. There are times where I feel like they are still trying to have both Sammy and Dave on the album. But they couldn't go that far off and not lose fans. This album defiantly is overlooked. The day when this is remembered as on of their best is the day I know the world will be smart. There are parts where the vocals and backing vocals are buried in the mix, along with the drums, ore the bass sometimes to, but never the guitar. This was a fun album and it feels like they just wanted to try something new. You can't hate on them for that, look at A Different Kind of Truth they went for that 70's feeling and couldn't pull it off. Also the songs on this album don't really leave this overall sound of any of the songs. I think that worked for this album, though they did experiment a little, they did it the best I can think. The only thing that they could improve on is maybe experiment a little more to show that you are using this new singer. I also like how they use fade on this album a lot more than any other album. If you want to listen to Van Halen in a different light that I suggest listening to this album, whether you want to or if it's just for fun. I didn't realize this till I was about to upload it, This was released March 17th, 1998. So I guess this is an early 14th anniversary review for this album. To wrap it up, all I know as a fact is that I'm gonna get this on CD.