Ping Machines - From 1 2 Another
- English (US)
Ping Machines hit hard and fast on “From 1 2 Another,” a track that feels like a steel-toed boot slamming the door between power metal precision and heavy garage rock swagger.
Ben Rankin - Save Your Tears
- English (US)
“Save Your Tears” hits hard from the opening seconds, announcing Ben Rankin’s intent with absolute clarity. Drawing inspiration from hardcore while fusing it with the grit and swagger of nu-metal, the track thrives on tension, release, and raw conviction.
Gary Dranow-Fool Outta Me
Gary Dranow might be a regular feature in your rock and drive playlists now. His journey has been inspirational, and the resulting music, really cool and groovy. This time, Gary wants to take us back to the track that he began 2022 with. This is his single, Fool Outta Me.
Requiem For Oblivion-The Glares
Requiem For Oblivion comes from the complex mind of Steve Jacobson. You don’t need to hear more than a few seconds to know what a master of the metal scene he is. Instead of pandering to the listeners, his music reasons with reason. Rooting from real life experiences, his commentary is on the absurdities that surround society. Don’t let the system tread over you. This is the latest single, The Glares.
Pressure-Sacramental Anger
Classic rock gets associated with the likes of UK and USA, who have heralded their music to be what defines the genre now. However, bands like Pressure know there are more approaches than lamenting about the woman that left you with a guitar solo interlude. Their tracks break the norm, recreate the form and make something that is truly and originally theirs. Sacramental Anger is their latest single. This “melodic rock” genre that they spearhead has the appearance of coloured wax layered-creating a flamboyance that can’t be contained. With chugging metal influences as well, the vocals are the crown jewel in this collection of notes. The genre doesn’t limit the vocals within the main rhythm. Soaring with her unique vocals, Olof Jönsson ensures there is mystery and a control that can come only from an operatic singer. Pressure fix the boring form bands have continued for decades to make it centered around a gargantuan melody. Their album released earlier this year shows an approach that many couldn’t even fathom. With their self-titled track garnering quite the number of streams on the platform, you know you’re getting something new every time with a band like Pressure. They have created a precedent for themselves, only they can aspire to change. Listen to their single here:
Intaglio-II
Intaglio is a project concept that has lived in the limelight for 15 years or so since their debut. Have they been stagnant? No, musicians generally always create. Have they turned to a different genre? No, they have stuck true to what they thought was transcendental. Are they any good? II is the answer to that subjective question, so let’s see what they’ve put together for us. The strings of death-what do they say? Midnight Sonata -I. The Night Sky is the opening art piece. I call it an art piece and not a number because of the execution. Intaglio might be a funeral doom-death metal project, but the sense of doom, stellar loneliness and despair comes from the clever execution of strings and double bass. That is what sets them apart here as well. The song uses the depth of the cellos and distorted guitar to flush out a sound that wraps around your psyche. There are no quick pace changes, just chanting vocals entering-foreshadowing what is to come. The choir sounding vocals only enter later, making it a rich tune to begin the album with. Keeping the flow going, Midnight Sonata -II. Melting Like Ice… uses the momentum and employs some more cultural textures. You clearly here Indian instruments or Mandala drums executing them. The cello holds the storyline, the simple instrumental sharing what is a timbre infused musical bit. About a minute in, you hear the guitars entering, aiding the simple melody as the drums follow suit. The vocals whisper, as the instrumentals dominate the profound clarity of the composition. As the marching bridge comes in before the breakdown, we hear the song mellow out to its eventual completion. A concept album always keeps the song flowing. Midnight Sonata – III. Always Return follows in the same stream, as the growling vocals become denser and more ominous. As the single stroke riffs dominate the sonic atmosphere, single note melodies serve as an interlude in this progressive 3-piece song. By 1: 50, we build to the rhythmic part of the song which follows a beat, with a melancholy string instrumental, with bass doubling down the emotion. We hear clean vocals again, building and closing this introduction bit. Executed with curated perfection and a strange yet interesting concept to listen to. Breaking into a new idea Subject to Time was released as a single earlier this year, and is another melodic tapestry woven with elements of doom, death, and Intaglio’s signature string section. The drums tread lightly, yet have a clear footprint in this song. After a narrative bit, the growling commences, along with the rhythm section. Depending on single strums to ring out for the heaviness, the rhythm section intensifies, as the strings keep time with their gentle wailing. The 8-minute epic has a lot of elements, breaking between the deep sound of doom and the strings. Great track to listen to, profound to understand. The Memory of Death opens with the guitar and a thunderous drum section, spaced out well into a juxtaposition of louder and softer riffs. One would argue that this sound is indiscernible, but this isn’t true as Intaglio pull it off. Shrewdly placing the breaks and heavier sounds in parts, they impart both the sounds that define them with purity that compromises on neither quality or delivery. It is an intense listen, with the song organically developing with the melancholy strings. Funeral doom with contrasting elements The next song aims to continue the melody of the previous track with some interesting chordal developments. Depths of Space is the personification of getting lost, with narration and minor scale progressions making it a sound that lingers and warps the idea of time with its strings and clean guitar sections. The middle break is a very clever addition, with the aspect of being lost in a mind not lost in ambiguity of the instrumental itself. Everything in its Place continues in one fluid motion from Depths of Space. The song really goes through metamorphosis at midway, with its new sound being a callback to the opening but towards a new end as well. The strings coming in with its dynamism makes it clearly contrast the heavier part before the lyrics are put across. They close the song with the soft instrumental, the style with which they began. A full circle, like life. II is a complex masterpiece for a project that seems to have been on hold for so long. In a stage of supposed incubation, they really seemed to have thrived, as a one-man project or the makings of different group dynamics. This album is a concept that has been tried, yet never been executed with such contrasting styles coming together. So, to answer the introduction banter question, is it any good? Very. A benchmark for the whole idea to live up to, so we can’t wait for more.
Martin Smith-Dancing In the Fire
Instead of listening to those relentless club anthems that all sound the same, shift to something that cuts out all the noise. I’m talking about Martin Smith’s new single, Dancing In the Fire. With the zeal to make you dance and the fury to make you rock, this is an amalgam you won’t regret experiencing. Opening with a Mark Ronson style funk dance sequence, Martin Smith changes gears with live instruments pulsating right from the first few moments. The synths are a supporting act for the guitars, adding great mass and volume to Smith’s lyrics and somber vocals. That is, till he gets to the chorus. A pumping jive, it is almost impossible to not have this whoop stuck in your head. The industrial heaviness of rock is heard, from NIN to the dance anthem styles of old Panic!, Martin Smith vows to change the atmosphere of the Church, and he is undoubtedly doing so. Testing your faith might not be that easy. Because of the nature of this addictive melody that Martin Smith has written, its important to know his musical journey, the tracks that he originated from. To no surprise, Exalt from 2020 is a phenomenal album with echoing synth soundscapes and motivational lyrics. Changing like the tides but keeping the solid message the same, Smith continues to impress with his latest venture. So when you want that indelible entrance into that party hall, you know what action star track will be playing behind you!
Snayx-Cigarette
If their 2018 track Deranged made you presume they were a one hit wonder, Snayx surprised you. Come 2019, they released Body Language, a kicking single that made you want to dance your boots off. Last year was another fun track False Friends, so you better bank on the fact that they aren’t taking it easy. This is Snayx with Cigarette. With a riff that revamps the Kyuss and early QOTSA years, Snayx have a penchant for drama. It’s all screen all formats OTT drama, so there’s really no time or place for it. With a catchy hook and equally catchy lyrics, they know exactly what adventure ride everyone likes to repeat at the park, and they’re giving out VIP tickets. Cigarette has the harmonics and musicality of a pop-punk hit, but by the time Snayx are done doctoring what you hear, you’re in a whole new spectrum. Coming off their huge sounds in Body Language and bass heavy riffs that have dominated their tracks, this group isn’t really scared of taking risks according to sound or what we hear. They’re very much in that “finding yourself” phase, but we get a kicker out of each spiritual renaissance. They take effort and give out top class produced tracks with no signs of slacking or sub-standard quality work. Luckily, they’re touring now in the UK, so whoever is lucky enough to listen to them live, please do so. We can promise you’ll need a cigarette afterwords. I surely see this tune in the movie Now You See Me, seems like a perfect fit for one of those high-octane scenes! Check out the movie here - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1670345/
Raynald Grenier-Dolci Momenti
Raynald Grenier has had quite an illustrious career. I could say that listening to what he has uploaded on Spotify alone, but he’s had an even more interesting background. He began his career as an accompanying pianist and subsequently as a conductor for several groups. If a theatric frozen frame could verbally explain what music the moment required, Raynald Grenier quite possibly has the experience to alchemize it to a form of liquid poetry. Dolci momenti is a collection of such emotional pieces of music. The title track is an emotional opening that reminded me of Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky. I don’t indulge in classical music much, but I can see when salutations are being paid to the greats. With rising strings and piano melodies, the mold is too complicated for a mere critic like me to criticize. Here I only elucidate what I felt. Complex potions of sorrow and joy make a swill that isn’t for the faint of heart. It is a moving piece, and a great way to start the album. Doux instants makes way for an interlude in a drama, where thoughts and moments deliberate over relationships. Grenier knows how to set the scene with each of his pieces, so they’re precise and free flowing like a creek. The moment of unison for the swells in strings is what makes a track special and for a specific moment, even while composing. Dictating a moment There’s a regal quality, patience to this kind of listening. A moment isn’t served to you, you slowly chance upon it. Sweet Moments is such a segment, with the build being slow and steady. The crescendos don’t catch you unawares, and the moments have been retrieved as their original dexterity is acknowledged. The minor scale changes within tracks like Nostalgia make sure the tracks are heard for the moment they stand to narrate. Watch the harps take charge and encapsulate the beauty of nature that is laid out in front of us. Soleil levant is a track that is a picturesque depiction of a breathtaking sight. Concertino en do diese pour piano et orchestre helps the instrument dominate, which it can clearly do being such a malleable producer of sound and emotion. The way the acts are set out for the tracks of the album are segments of memory, and must be viewed as such. Dolci momenti is a glimpse into the life of a very accomplished composer. With years of bronze under his belt, he has chalked out instrumentals for various scenes and entire dramas. It would be riveting to hear his compositions with the theatrics and the audio-visual experience it deserves. This does not go to say you will not enjoy it for the quality of composition it is. Classical music fan or not, tune in to watch seemingly lifeless instruments toy with your emotions for the better part of 45 mins. You have only this music virtuoso and composer to thank. The title track can easily be used in the James Bond film Skyfall in one of the scenic shots of the countryside. Check out the movie here - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1074638/
Diamond Blacc-Shannon’s Son
Revisit the style of old school hip-hop with Diamond Blacc, giving you an edge with his sound and style. A rapper from Philadelphia, Blacc is creating a niche for himself with his heavy bars and robust lines-out with a fire to prove something. I had the pleasure of talking to Blacc about his journey to this EP, Shannon’s Son. About the album “Shannon’s Son” is my debut EP that showcases my authenticity and expressionism as an artist thus far. It is a reflection of self and the music I create. Everyone who knows me recognizes me as my mothers son, so the title is like my call tag. This EP is both an experimental and explorative showcase of sound, tone and subject that sails through a multitude of genres. My music is a reflection of the change that is occurring in hip-hop right now. Diversity in artistry, music, sound and even genre are more apparent now than ever before and I am on a mission to forge my own lane in the music sphere. This is exactly what Blacc is about, the change in the very atmosphere of hip-hop and everything else that goes with it following a tumultuous year. His songs might disguise themselves as something mundane and talked about, but the statements lie under the sheets. Some songs might even be too drawn or purified to mean something that sounds very basic, but that’s part of the charm of Shannon’s Son, the random nature of the debut album. The art of what is in a name Choosing this stage name, Diamond Blacc tells me how it has been derived and what it means to him. I have always viewed myself as a diamond in the rough. I have come a long way in my life and endured a great deal. Yet despite all that life has thrown my way, I am grateful to say that my experiences have shaped me into the best version of myself. My stage name and life experiences are synonymous to that of a diamond. Diamonds endure extreme heat and are formed under immense pressure to become the beautiful gems we admire near and far. Though songs like Shining & Memories have political undertones or at least mirages, they can easily be misunderstood. Blacc tells us about his music process, of creating and deliberating what he feels is art. I wouldn’t say that I intentionally write songs to have any specific social or political impact. I write from the heart and I speak my truth in my lyrics. Through my music, I seek to inspire, encourage, and uplift others to be their most authentic selves and live their truths. If speaking my truth in my lyrics were to be received as socially and/or politically impactful, I would be very appreciative of such comparisons. How a track is written-beat to rhymes The first few tracks are invasive of a very interesting writing and rhyming process, especially Poppin‘ & Rollin‘, meant to be heard together. You tend to realise that the intent might alter in each phase, so I asked Blacc about his process: When I write, the beat is in control. It is the melody that dictates the lyrics. I like to meditate for a bit to clear my head and listen to the beat a few times through headphones. I enjoy writing in private and often small spaces where I can be alone with just myself and my music. I’ll freestyle a little bit, and I will write everything down. After a few rough drafts the structure of my song builds, develops, and flows on its own. There is a magic that grows organically and often out of spontaneity. I believe I just steer the path. The closing track is perhaps the most important part of the song and I always like to make sure my closing remarks are smooth but impactful. I like them to conclude the overall message of whatever I’m presenting but done so in a way that is pleasing to the listener’s ear. With a good beat and flow on a track you can nearly say anything as long as it is pleasing audibly to your listener’s ear. I keep this in mind when writing my lyrics and apply the technique throughout my verses but especially in my closing remarks. I want listeners to be left satisfied but still wanting to hear my songs again and again. To conclude Diamond Blacc has a great compilation for a debut album, with interesting tight beats, all the way to lyrically complex bars that tend to deviate your rigid train of thought. The trap vibe is evident in songs like Make Me Cream, while his introductory songs are talk from a point of success and freedom. It is part of the rich fabric of hip-hop and yet aims to push towards a new style. Just remember him as Shannon’s son. I'd love to see this track on the film Rush Hour in one of its many quirky moments! Check out the movie here - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120812/plotsummary
The Congregation-Soundtrack To The End of The World
You should be able to have read this review in a minute tops. If you read, that is. I’m usually not in a hurry for you to get to that track embed at the end of this article, so I’m going to make it quick. The Congreation releases a new single, Soundtrack To The End of The World. Is it a rock song? So much more. Now put 50 seconds more on the clock, and lets go. From big-bill producers and monoliths of rock music production, The Congregation seems to have done his willing, according to his name. His latest track is a 2:50 second banger, opening with some preachers dialogue about how rock n roll is written by the devil himself. If its the temptation to headbang our heads right out of its socket, then yes, it was the devil. Satan-aide here makes that whole moment special, with a confounding sound of live instruments coming at you. With the power that the Foos released White Limo with, the channeled sins of Beelzebub have never sounded this great. I have about 20 seconds more. Hopefully, this build up is enough for you to lose your senses to this smashing song. It is truly the personification of a landslide, if it had a band. In case you want to hear how good the artist is, Welcome to the Congregation is your album to carry around. Truly a gift to all us minions. In case you’re wondering how great the song is, it works really well for the closing scene of Fight Club. Maybe as good as Where is My Mind? I'd love to see this song being used in one of the Thor films, as it really fits the energy and vibe! Check out the film here - https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/thor
Ali Pips-Yours Truly, Ms. Darkside
Ali Pips features once again as the anonymously elected queen of the scares. After her previous single Mad Queen, she has resurfaced after her nap in the grave for Yours Truly, Ms. Darkside. It is a jazz-fusion number based on rock-and has plenty to unpack. So let’s get 6 feet under for the song. Yours Truly, Ms. Darkside is showing Ali Pips sitting on her own throne of this genre, and this scale. Her melodies incite a certain helplessness, and ignite something you might dread. If this is a ramp walk with Mike Myers, Freddy & the other greats of scare, Ali Pips will walk as the headliner. You better bet this song will be playing, because it defines her signature piano playing and jazz alternative approach clearer than your demise at the climax of a horror film. Her style is assuredly leaning towards a darker sound, so the Halloween release makes a lot of sense. As she explores the theme she has chosen, or has chosen her, we see some interesting flourishes. The breakdown at the two minute mark is a melodic monologue of sorts, with the marching style beat dropping a dark shroud over the songs overall feel. The piano work sells the depth of the song, and shows how masterfully Ali can navigate her primary instrument. This song would fit great into the movie Wonderwoman! Check out the movie here - https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/wonder_woman_2017