FA+
Shop
When it Moves...
Posted 15 years ago... then fuck it.
sorry, I'm on a bit of a :W: kick right now :P
oh, and the only official video I know from :W:
sorry, I'm on a bit of a :W: kick right now :P
oh, and the only official video I know from :W:
Tooth and Claw
Posted 15 years agoThere are certain books from which I have or do draw inspiration from. Brian Jacques' Redwall series was my inspiration to start as a writer of anthro fiction a few years ago and still influence my work to this day (though far less than they did in previous years). About two years ago I bought a book on a whim, knowing nothing about it beyond what was depicted upon its cover. To this day, I use it to draw some inspiration for societal norms and the formal interactions scripted by those norms. Yet I do enjoy it simply as a reader for the bits of romance thrown in and I do so love the ending. That book is "Tooth and Claw" by Jo Walton ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tooth_.....aw_%28novel%29 )
Recently I have reread it for the first time in months and I've come to love it again as I did the first read through. Of course, it having been a couple years since I bought, I thought that by chance perhaps there was a sequel and so I began the hunt for such information. Well, I found it, but I'm saddened... saddened, by the fact that the author has no intentions of finishing what she has released online for free ( http://www.forgottenfutures.com/gam.....e_htm/fire.htm ). When I began to read "Those Who Favor Fire", I found myself enjoying it just as I did Tooth and Claw as it ventured further into the political aspect of the world introduced in "Tooth and Claw". I regret reading the three chapters that are shown there, as now I find myself longing for what may never be...
Recently I have reread it for the first time in months and I've come to love it again as I did the first read through. Of course, it having been a couple years since I bought, I thought that by chance perhaps there was a sequel and so I began the hunt for such information. Well, I found it, but I'm saddened... saddened, by the fact that the author has no intentions of finishing what she has released online for free ( http://www.forgottenfutures.com/gam.....e_htm/fire.htm ). When I began to read "Those Who Favor Fire", I found myself enjoying it just as I did Tooth and Claw as it ventured further into the political aspect of the world introduced in "Tooth and Claw". I regret reading the three chapters that are shown there, as now I find myself longing for what may never be...
Moving on...
Posted 15 years agoI've found a band I've come to really enjoy. I've listened to their new album, "Conversations", and at least for me it's a buy.
I introduce to you: Gauzz
For more of Gauzz, visit they're Myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/gauzz
I introduce to you: Gauzz
For more of Gauzz, visit they're Myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/gauzz
R.I.P (E Nomine)
Posted 15 years agoWell, I'm finally giving in and considering the project dead. I'm actually pretty down about it because the guys that were in it really made some epic music. You'll never think of choral or dance music the same way after hearing them if you haven't already. They're TRULY different and not just a simple twist on an old concept. They brought together Gregorian Chants, Choral verses in Latin, dance beats, and Classical music together in an incredible mix. You can find their music all over Youtube if you search "E Nomine". I miss them. =(
It's still pretty cool to see some rare live footage (before you think "wait, that's horrible, he's only reciting the lyrics", well that's the point guys :) ):
And a couple new tracks they had before breaking up:
It's still pretty cool to see some rare live footage (before you think "wait, that's horrible, he's only reciting the lyrics", well that's the point guys :) ):
And a couple new tracks they had before breaking up:
How furry am I?
Posted 15 years ago1 to 5 = Furry wannabe.
6 to 10 = Furry newbie.
11 to 15 = Furry.
16 to 20 = Hardened Furry.
21 to 25 = Hardcore Furry.
1. (x) Have you ever howled at the moon? (when I was a little kid, yeah)
2. (x) Have you ever barked at someone? (again, as a little kid)
3. (x) Have you ever found yourself drawing or scribbling furry art when you're supposed to be doing something else? (yeah, but the scribbles were never remotely good :P)
4. ( ) Have you ever worn an animal costume or tail as a child and pretended to be an animal?
5. ( ) Have you ever eaten out of a dog bowl?
6. ( ) Have you been to at least one furry con? (I wish really really wanting to counted)
7. (x) Do you like to look at furry porn all the time? (Not all the time, but enough)
8. (x) Do you RP or play second life as a furry character? (When I do written/typed RP as an anthro)
9. ( ) Do you own a fursuit or at least a tail?
10. (x) Do you know what all these words mean or have used them at least once? (as cheesy as they are, yes I know all of them.)
11. ( ) Do you have at least 5 videos of you acting or doing something furry on youtube?
12. (x) Has your anthropersona/character been drawn in a furry porn type manner?
13. ( ) Are you well known in the furry fandom? (hah, I seriously doubt it.)
14. (x) Do you dream furry while you sleep? (sometimes I do xD)
15. (x) Would you transform into your character/fursona if you were given the chance to live like that for the rest of your life? (There would be some downsides, but sure!)
16. (x) Have you ever worn a collar? (indeed I have)
17. ( ) Do you own more than 20 art badges of your fursonas or characters?
18. ( ) Have you been to more than 20 furry cons in your lifetime?
19. ( ) Do you think that deep down you have the spirit of an animal within you? (this is more of a Were thing than a furry thing)
20. (x) Do you enjoy hanging out with other furries? (most of my friends are furries xD)
21. (x) Do you think we should have a furry run for president of the USA? (well, if they're good enough to be the President, then yeah I guess, but I wouldn't take Average Joe Furry and want him to go for President. In other words, his furriness would have to have no influence on the skills needed to be in that position)
22. (x) If you ever became rich would you own a room in your house that was just to display your fursuits or furry art? (yes, but I'd lock that shit :P)
23. (x) Is your best friend furry? (Yar)
24. (x) Do your furry friends call you by your furry name in public? (Yup)
25. (x) Have you been in the furry fandom for at least 5 years? (oh god, I have XD. 5 or so more years and I can start calling myself a gray muzzle :P)
Well, I'm barely a hardened furry, but that's okay. I'll move up the ladder in a few years. :-P
6 to 10 = Furry newbie.
11 to 15 = Furry.
16 to 20 = Hardened Furry.
21 to 25 = Hardcore Furry.
1. (x) Have you ever howled at the moon? (when I was a little kid, yeah)
2. (x) Have you ever barked at someone? (again, as a little kid)
3. (x) Have you ever found yourself drawing or scribbling furry art when you're supposed to be doing something else? (yeah, but the scribbles were never remotely good :P)
4. ( ) Have you ever worn an animal costume or tail as a child and pretended to be an animal?
5. ( ) Have you ever eaten out of a dog bowl?
6. ( ) Have you been to at least one furry con? (I wish really really wanting to counted)
7. (x) Do you like to look at furry porn all the time? (Not all the time, but enough)
8. (x) Do you RP or play second life as a furry character? (When I do written/typed RP as an anthro)
9. ( ) Do you own a fursuit or at least a tail?
10. (x) Do you know what all these words mean or have used them at least once? (as cheesy as they are, yes I know all of them.)
11. ( ) Do you have at least 5 videos of you acting or doing something furry on youtube?
12. (x) Has your anthropersona/character been drawn in a furry porn type manner?
13. ( ) Are you well known in the furry fandom? (hah, I seriously doubt it.)
14. (x) Do you dream furry while you sleep? (sometimes I do xD)
15. (x) Would you transform into your character/fursona if you were given the chance to live like that for the rest of your life? (There would be some downsides, but sure!)
16. (x) Have you ever worn a collar? (indeed I have)
17. ( ) Do you own more than 20 art badges of your fursonas or characters?
18. ( ) Have you been to more than 20 furry cons in your lifetime?
19. ( ) Do you think that deep down you have the spirit of an animal within you? (this is more of a Were thing than a furry thing)
20. (x) Do you enjoy hanging out with other furries? (most of my friends are furries xD)
21. (x) Do you think we should have a furry run for president of the USA? (well, if they're good enough to be the President, then yeah I guess, but I wouldn't take Average Joe Furry and want him to go for President. In other words, his furriness would have to have no influence on the skills needed to be in that position)
22. (x) If you ever became rich would you own a room in your house that was just to display your fursuits or furry art? (yes, but I'd lock that shit :P)
23. (x) Is your best friend furry? (Yar)
24. (x) Do your furry friends call you by your furry name in public? (Yup)
25. (x) Have you been in the furry fandom for at least 5 years? (oh god, I have XD. 5 or so more years and I can start calling myself a gray muzzle :P)
Well, I'm barely a hardened furry, but that's okay. I'll move up the ladder in a few years. :-P
new Eden Synthetic Corps album (Part 2)!
Posted 15 years agoSo after scrounging youtube a bit, I found two songs that are up there from the new album. They're not my personal favorites, but they may become yours! Again, listen in 480p! Any lower doesn't do the songs justice.
The title track, 'Eight Thousand Square Feet'
And another track, 'Correcting God's Design'
The title track, 'Eight Thousand Square Feet'
And another track, 'Correcting God's Design'
new Eden Synthetic Corps album!
Posted 15 years agoI love this Death Metal turned Industrial/Harsh EBM band! Ever since their second album, Enhancer, was released, I was hooked. With their pounding beats and Metal-styled vocals from the two frontmen (that's right, two vocalists!), this band is a lethal dancefloor killer. I've already listened to the album and once it hits the COP International online catalog, I'm grabbing this thing up! Eight Thousand Square Feet is even heavier than Enhancer and features cleaner Metal vocals on a couple songs as well as wicked guest appearances by the vocalists of X-Fusion and [:SITD:]. The drums are more unforgiving and it seems they lean even more towards metal this time around. Truly a great transition album for a Heavy Metal fan into the Industrial genre!
For those of you who have yet to hear anything from ESC, here's a couple samples from Ehancer (Listen at 480p! the sound quality's much better):
Undoubtedly the heaviest track on the album:
The vicious title track: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McxX1UvgPtA
The one that would fill the dancefloors: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0mv-TCmnWA
For those of you who have yet to hear anything from ESC, here's a couple samples from Ehancer (Listen at 480p! the sound quality's much better):
Undoubtedly the heaviest track on the album:
The vicious title track: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McxX1UvgPtA
The one that would fill the dancefloors: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0mv-TCmnWA
Birthday
Posted 15 years agoAnd now I'm 1/5th of a century! Now to all my friends in their 20's, you can't say you're ancient anymore because I'm with you now. :P
Anyways, on to finishing the wiring for my PC, setting up the BIOS, OS, and applications!
Anyways, on to finishing the wiring for my PC, setting up the BIOS, OS, and applications!
Satisfying Cravings
Posted 15 years agoSometimes you just get that itch to eat something specific. Right now, I'm scratching my itch to eat ranch style beans. A whole bowl of yum. :)
As the Birthday Looms
Posted 15 years agoThis Sunday I become 1 year closer to death. It's kind of thrilling. It's looking to be a pretty relaxed Sunday. I'll probably be building my new PC that day and going out to a dinner with my father. I prefer it that way since I've never been a big fan of birthday parties for myself.
Something Personal
Posted 15 years agoThere are few documentaries that I find life-changing and capable of making me reevaluate myself as a person. After all, most are so full of dogma and rhetoric that even if you mildly support the topic they're covering you can easily say they go too far. This is not one of them. This documentary has convinced me that it is truly possible to have faith in god while being Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, or Transgender, and why it is possible. However, to truly get the message that has compelled me to reflect upon myself, you need to watch it to the very end. Don't get put off by the lean to it at the beginning. The people with negative opinion develop by the end and in that way you begin to get the ultimate message from this documentary. You can start with the first part here:
Because I really do like a little bit of everything...
Posted 15 years agoIt's not the original, but I think this version fits more with the whole feeling of 2pac's lyrical delivery.
Music Review: Ego Likeness- "Breedless"
Posted 15 years agoMembers: Donna Lynch [Vocals, Piano, Lyrics, Synths]; Steven Archer [Vocals, Guitar, Synths, Drums, Programming]
Genre(s): Industrial Rock, Darkwave, Triphop
A Little Background
Formed in 1999, Ego Likeness presents musical artistry in its seductive, dark style with Donna Lynch's sultry vocals at the lead. In 2000, they released their debut album "Dragonfly" through the band's own label Angelfall. 2004 saw the band sign with Philadelphia-based label, Dancing Ferret Discs and released their second album "Water to the Dead". After the release of their third album, "The Order of the Reptile" in 2006 through DCD, the band went on to release the "Compass" EPs "South", "West", and "North" over the course of the next three years.
After Dancing Ferret Discs effectively closed its doors, Ego Likeness signed with Philadelphia label, Metropolis Records. Soon after, in April 2010, their fourth album, "Breedless" was released.
01. Sirens and Satellites ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9Las66_4bg )
A great opening track that starts with an acoustic guitar that leads into the proper rock-styled guitar. It was a bit of a surprise as I bought this album without knowing Ego Likeness' music beforehand. I had expected them to be purely an Industrial/Trip-Hop project. Donna Lynch's voice turns out to be like a siren's bewitching call, drawing you into the track and further into the album with its smoky texture.
In the lyrics booklet this is subtitled "LaSiren", and it shows why as it comes from the perspective of sirens speaking to potential victims. A dark subject, yet deliciously seductive when voiced by Lynch.
02. Breedless ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....less/Breedless )
This track from the beginning shows that it takes on more of the Industrial side of the band with thick synths and complementary guitar riffs. If Lynch's sultry vocals didn't catch you in the first track, they will here. With its darker lyrical delivery, this track also shows the darker side of the band by displaying a dislike for the artificial, negative aspects of mankind. This combines with the darker overall sound of this track to create a sinister, yet inspirational track that will make you want to sing along after a time.
03. Inferno ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....edless/Inferno )
Inferno kicks off with a groovy, yet heavy guitar riff and builds up until Lynch comes in with a more conventional vocal approach that is indicative of their Trip Hop side. This track unlike the first two is quite constant without much variation except an atmospheric break. Otherwise, it still a very solid track.
04. Now Until Forever ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....+Until+Forever )
Right off from the beginning, this track makes Ego Likeness' Trip Hop side very apparent with its beat. While I first had my doubts, the band proves they can blend that part of the project well with sequenced synths and guitar riffs. Lynch takes on a sort of 'dreamy' feel with her vocals. The lyrical content is written from the perspective of someone talking to their lover to meet them "at the crossroads". Don't be put off by this though, as the lyrics are very intelligent and Lynch is able to put through a sense of longing. This is another splendid track that deserves a lot of credit with how well produced it is and how all the components simply work.
05. The Devils in the Chemicals ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....+The+Chemicals )
Once again, EL's darker side emerges with Lynch's desperate-sounding vocal delivery and the manic instrumentals. The lyrical content isn't much in quantity, but the message is strong, basically saying that our faults are due to the "demons in the DNA". While pretty guitar driven, this track is very groovy and catchy, and would go great in a club.
06. Song for Samael ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....ong+For+Samael )
This is the ballad track of the album, and while it begins with a Dark Ambient intro and whispered echoing vocals from Lynch, the chorus proves that the song has a haunting beauty. The lyrics of this song look into the cruel, selfish side of the human psyche while praising religious figures like Moses for being idealized human beings ("I guess Moses was a better soul than I, I would've let my people drown"). In the end, the song peters out with an outro as dark as the intro. A splendid track to be sure.
07. South ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3O4KdgRfGs
This track is the most "Trip Hop" song on this album with its beat and synths. This a pretty good song with an Electro kind of feel, at least until the guitars kick in halfway. Lynch's vocals are similar to those in "LaSiren", just as entrancing. The lyrics can be taken both literally and figuratively. Figuratively, it speaks of "drowning" in the overwhelming indecision when faced with life-changing choices. Literally, it speaks of drowning in the seas and asking Leviathan to have mercy and "hold back your seas".
08. The Lowest Place on Earth ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....Place+On+Earth )
This track continues seamlessly from "South" and starts with a sweeping synth and plugging bass. As the single for the album aside from "South", I don't find it as single-worthy as the other tracks in the album. That is not to say that it isn't good with its Elecrto-styled stanzas and riff-laden chorus.
09. Everything is Poison ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....hing+Is+Poison )
This track is among the best in the album. It blends Trip Hop with Darkwave into a catchy, club-friendly song. Lynch's vocal delivery is a little more 'delicate' in this song, showing her ability to be diverse as a vocalist in terms of tone and textures. While the other tracks' lyrics are more complex, this quite plainly points out the hypocrisy of others when condemning people for their actions while excusing their own actions.
10. Seance ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....ss/S%C3%A9ance )
Despite the title, this is a very beat- rhythm-driven song full of instrumentals. It's dreamy synths back the guitar riffs that complement Lynch's smoky vocals. The harmonizing of her vocals is most clear in this song, and she does a splendid job of it. While this isn't a ballad like "Song of Samael", I'm comfortable calling it a rock ballad that speaks from the perspective of a medium who faces their doubters.
11. The Queen of All Things Taken ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....l+Things+Taken )
One of my favorite songs on the album, this is a very groove-driven song. A Trip Hop beat complements the deep bass guitar that create a somewhat dark ambient atmosphere, even when the chorus brings with it Archer's guitar and Lynch's more pronounced vocals. While not quite dark in sound, the lyrics describe a character that goes by the "Queen of all things taken" that can show "what it means to lose". Overall this a beautiful song and a must listen.
12. Thirty Year War ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....hirty-Year+War )
The perfect closing for this album. This song is an ambient, spacey ballad that has echo all over it, turning it into something more dream-like. Beautiful is the word I would use to describe it as well as Lynch's singing (she shows she can actually sing in a traditional fashion). While the lyrics paint this picture of a war and POWs, it shows by the end that it truly is about redemption, of overcoming our human nature to be more than savage beasts that do what was talked about in the previous songs. This is undoubtedly the most uplifting song in the album and ends it on a gorgeous, inspiring, and positive note.
In the end
I don't usually do track by track reviews for full albums, but "Breedless" necessitates it. Overall the track is well produced artistry that will ensnare the mind, and fire up the imagination. While most of its subject matter is dark, it's actually a dark beauty that can be appreciated (unless you only ever listen to Bubblegum Pop). Ego Likeness shows that it is a mature band that knows how to make different aspects of different genres mesh and work well together. While there are a few tracks that aren't mind-blowing, they are from bad. Truly, this an album to buy. I give "Breedless" a solid 9 out of 10. Ego Likeness has found a hardcore fan in me.
Rating: 9/10
Currently "Breedless" is only available on iTunes, Amazon.co.uk (imported for £16.49) and Metropolis Records ($12.99): http://www.metropolis-mailorder.com.....rodnum=MET+633
Genre(s): Industrial Rock, Darkwave, Triphop
A Little Background
Formed in 1999, Ego Likeness presents musical artistry in its seductive, dark style with Donna Lynch's sultry vocals at the lead. In 2000, they released their debut album "Dragonfly" through the band's own label Angelfall. 2004 saw the band sign with Philadelphia-based label, Dancing Ferret Discs and released their second album "Water to the Dead". After the release of their third album, "The Order of the Reptile" in 2006 through DCD, the band went on to release the "Compass" EPs "South", "West", and "North" over the course of the next three years.
After Dancing Ferret Discs effectively closed its doors, Ego Likeness signed with Philadelphia label, Metropolis Records. Soon after, in April 2010, their fourth album, "Breedless" was released.
01. Sirens and Satellites ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9Las66_4bg )
A great opening track that starts with an acoustic guitar that leads into the proper rock-styled guitar. It was a bit of a surprise as I bought this album without knowing Ego Likeness' music beforehand. I had expected them to be purely an Industrial/Trip-Hop project. Donna Lynch's voice turns out to be like a siren's bewitching call, drawing you into the track and further into the album with its smoky texture.
In the lyrics booklet this is subtitled "LaSiren", and it shows why as it comes from the perspective of sirens speaking to potential victims. A dark subject, yet deliciously seductive when voiced by Lynch.
02. Breedless ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....less/Breedless )
This track from the beginning shows that it takes on more of the Industrial side of the band with thick synths and complementary guitar riffs. If Lynch's sultry vocals didn't catch you in the first track, they will here. With its darker lyrical delivery, this track also shows the darker side of the band by displaying a dislike for the artificial, negative aspects of mankind. This combines with the darker overall sound of this track to create a sinister, yet inspirational track that will make you want to sing along after a time.
03. Inferno ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....edless/Inferno )
Inferno kicks off with a groovy, yet heavy guitar riff and builds up until Lynch comes in with a more conventional vocal approach that is indicative of their Trip Hop side. This track unlike the first two is quite constant without much variation except an atmospheric break. Otherwise, it still a very solid track.
04. Now Until Forever ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....+Until+Forever )
Right off from the beginning, this track makes Ego Likeness' Trip Hop side very apparent with its beat. While I first had my doubts, the band proves they can blend that part of the project well with sequenced synths and guitar riffs. Lynch takes on a sort of 'dreamy' feel with her vocals. The lyrical content is written from the perspective of someone talking to their lover to meet them "at the crossroads". Don't be put off by this though, as the lyrics are very intelligent and Lynch is able to put through a sense of longing. This is another splendid track that deserves a lot of credit with how well produced it is and how all the components simply work.
05. The Devils in the Chemicals ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....+The+Chemicals )
Once again, EL's darker side emerges with Lynch's desperate-sounding vocal delivery and the manic instrumentals. The lyrical content isn't much in quantity, but the message is strong, basically saying that our faults are due to the "demons in the DNA". While pretty guitar driven, this track is very groovy and catchy, and would go great in a club.
06. Song for Samael ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....ong+For+Samael )
This is the ballad track of the album, and while it begins with a Dark Ambient intro and whispered echoing vocals from Lynch, the chorus proves that the song has a haunting beauty. The lyrics of this song look into the cruel, selfish side of the human psyche while praising religious figures like Moses for being idealized human beings ("I guess Moses was a better soul than I, I would've let my people drown"). In the end, the song peters out with an outro as dark as the intro. A splendid track to be sure.
07. South ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3O4KdgRfGs
This track is the most "Trip Hop" song on this album with its beat and synths. This a pretty good song with an Electro kind of feel, at least until the guitars kick in halfway. Lynch's vocals are similar to those in "LaSiren", just as entrancing. The lyrics can be taken both literally and figuratively. Figuratively, it speaks of "drowning" in the overwhelming indecision when faced with life-changing choices. Literally, it speaks of drowning in the seas and asking Leviathan to have mercy and "hold back your seas".
08. The Lowest Place on Earth ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....Place+On+Earth )
This track continues seamlessly from "South" and starts with a sweeping synth and plugging bass. As the single for the album aside from "South", I don't find it as single-worthy as the other tracks in the album. That is not to say that it isn't good with its Elecrto-styled stanzas and riff-laden chorus.
09. Everything is Poison ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....hing+Is+Poison )
This track is among the best in the album. It blends Trip Hop with Darkwave into a catchy, club-friendly song. Lynch's vocal delivery is a little more 'delicate' in this song, showing her ability to be diverse as a vocalist in terms of tone and textures. While the other tracks' lyrics are more complex, this quite plainly points out the hypocrisy of others when condemning people for their actions while excusing their own actions.
10. Seance ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....ss/S%C3%A9ance )
Despite the title, this is a very beat- rhythm-driven song full of instrumentals. It's dreamy synths back the guitar riffs that complement Lynch's smoky vocals. The harmonizing of her vocals is most clear in this song, and she does a splendid job of it. While this isn't a ballad like "Song of Samael", I'm comfortable calling it a rock ballad that speaks from the perspective of a medium who faces their doubters.
11. The Queen of All Things Taken ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....l+Things+Taken )
One of my favorite songs on the album, this is a very groove-driven song. A Trip Hop beat complements the deep bass guitar that create a somewhat dark ambient atmosphere, even when the chorus brings with it Archer's guitar and Lynch's more pronounced vocals. While not quite dark in sound, the lyrics describe a character that goes by the "Queen of all things taken" that can show "what it means to lose". Overall this a beautiful song and a must listen.
12. Thirty Year War ( http://www.last.fm/music/Ego+Likene.....hirty-Year+War )
The perfect closing for this album. This song is an ambient, spacey ballad that has echo all over it, turning it into something more dream-like. Beautiful is the word I would use to describe it as well as Lynch's singing (she shows she can actually sing in a traditional fashion). While the lyrics paint this picture of a war and POWs, it shows by the end that it truly is about redemption, of overcoming our human nature to be more than savage beasts that do what was talked about in the previous songs. This is undoubtedly the most uplifting song in the album and ends it on a gorgeous, inspiring, and positive note.
In the end
I don't usually do track by track reviews for full albums, but "Breedless" necessitates it. Overall the track is well produced artistry that will ensnare the mind, and fire up the imagination. While most of its subject matter is dark, it's actually a dark beauty that can be appreciated (unless you only ever listen to Bubblegum Pop). Ego Likeness shows that it is a mature band that knows how to make different aspects of different genres mesh and work well together. While there are a few tracks that aren't mind-blowing, they are from bad. Truly, this an album to buy. I give "Breedless" a solid 9 out of 10. Ego Likeness has found a hardcore fan in me.
Rating: 9/10
Currently "Breedless" is only available on iTunes, Amazon.co.uk (imported for £16.49) and Metropolis Records ($12.99): http://www.metropolis-mailorder.com.....rodnum=MET+633
Game Plan
Posted 15 years agoAlright. I'll finally have a review for Ego Likeness' album, "Breedless", up tomorrow at some point. After that, I'll be doing a review of Wideband Network's latest album. AND after them, I'll be reviewing the latest album, "The Parade", from the spectacular eclectic French band, Smooth. I seriously <3 this band. I'm just saddened I can't get a physical copy of their CD without importing it. Digital files from their website will just have to do for now. :(
Finally Gave in...
Posted 15 years ago... and got a twitter account. I may or may not get a Facebook account soon as well. You can follow me on Twitter at; http://twitter.com/kazeras
Wideband Network
Posted 15 years agoJust checked out WN's latest album and damn it's good. I may review it soon. Currently on my cue I have Ego Likeness' "Breedless" first, so Wideband's album will follow that. For now, here's a song of theirs that struck a bit of a chord in me:
Also, this is the only song that follows this particular thread on the album. It's not all doom and gloom. ^^;
Also, this is the only song that follows this particular thread on the album. It's not all doom and gloom. ^^;
Enneagram Test! Take it yourself!
Posted 15 years agoDamn, this one got me pretty DAMN close. Pretty much everything fits me except the child bit with its and/or silliness and the parent bit because... well, I'm not a parent. x3
http://helloquizzy.okcupid.com/test.....nneagram-test/
6 - The Questioner
"I am affectionate and skeptical"
Questioners are responsible, trustworthy, and value loyalty to family, friends, groups, and causes. Their personalities range broadly from reserved and timid to outspoken and confrontative.
How to Get Along with Me
• Be direct and clear.
• Listen to me carefully.
• Don't judge me for my anxiety.
• Work things through with me.
• Reassure me that everything is OK between us.
• Laugh and make jokes with me.
• Gently push me toward new experiences.
• Try not to overreact to my overreacting.
What I Like About Being a SIX
• being committed and faithful to family and friends
• being responsible and hardworking
• being compassionate toward others
• having intellect and wit
• being a nonconformist
• confronting danger bravely
• being direct and assertive
What's Hard About Being a SIX
• the constant push and pull involved in trying to make up my mind
• procrastinating because of fear of failure; having little confidence in myself
• fearing being abandoned or taken advantage of
• exhausting myself by worrying and scanning for danger
• wishing I had a rule book at work so I could do everything right
• being too critical of myself when I haven't lived up to my expectations
SIXes as Children Often
• are friendly, likable, and dependable, and/or sarcastic, bossy, and stubborn
• are anxious and hypervigilant; anticipate danger
• form a team of "us against them" with a best friend or parent
• look to groups or authorities to protect them and/or question authority and rebel
• are neglected or abused, come from unpredictable or alcoholic families, and/or take on the fearfulness of an overly anxious parent
SIXes as Parents
• are often loving, nurturing, and have a strong sense of duty
• are sometimes reluctant to give their children independence
• worry more than most that their children will get hurt
• sometimes have trouble saying no and setting boundaries
http://helloquizzy.okcupid.com/test.....nneagram-test/
6 - The Questioner
"I am affectionate and skeptical"
Questioners are responsible, trustworthy, and value loyalty to family, friends, groups, and causes. Their personalities range broadly from reserved and timid to outspoken and confrontative.
How to Get Along with Me
• Be direct and clear.
• Listen to me carefully.
• Don't judge me for my anxiety.
• Work things through with me.
• Reassure me that everything is OK between us.
• Laugh and make jokes with me.
• Gently push me toward new experiences.
• Try not to overreact to my overreacting.
What I Like About Being a SIX
• being committed and faithful to family and friends
• being responsible and hardworking
• being compassionate toward others
• having intellect and wit
• being a nonconformist
• confronting danger bravely
• being direct and assertive
What's Hard About Being a SIX
• the constant push and pull involved in trying to make up my mind
• procrastinating because of fear of failure; having little confidence in myself
• fearing being abandoned or taken advantage of
• exhausting myself by worrying and scanning for danger
• wishing I had a rule book at work so I could do everything right
• being too critical of myself when I haven't lived up to my expectations
SIXes as Children Often
• are friendly, likable, and dependable, and/or sarcastic, bossy, and stubborn
• are anxious and hypervigilant; anticipate danger
• form a team of "us against them" with a best friend or parent
• look to groups or authorities to protect them and/or question authority and rebel
• are neglected or abused, come from unpredictable or alcoholic families, and/or take on the fearfulness of an overly anxious parent
SIXes as Parents
• are often loving, nurturing, and have a strong sense of duty
• are sometimes reluctant to give their children independence
• worry more than most that their children will get hurt
• sometimes have trouble saying no and setting boundaries
Best Breakfast Ever
Posted 15 years agoSalad and Coffee.
A Change of Plans and an Apology
Posted 15 years agoSee, I was planning on doing a review on In Strict Confidence's new album "La Parade Monstruese", but I've fallen into this kick of Ambient music (particularly that which features the use of piano). Sooo, yes, that review will be forthcoming eventually after I'm done chilling out to this lovely music.
Also, I want to apologize to a friend of mine, Alpha. I meant to finish up the vocals for Broken Crystal, but I'm just not satisfied with them and I know I can do better. It'll be a little while longer until I have them ready with school starting again. Sorry my friend.
Also, I want to apologize to a friend of mine, Alpha. I meant to finish up the vocals for Broken Crystal, but I'm just not satisfied with them and I know I can do better. It'll be a little while longer until I have them ready with school starting again. Sorry my friend.
Music Review: Mind.In.A.Box- R.E.T.R.O.
Posted 15 years agoGenre(s): Electronic, Rock, Cyberpunk [See examples as to why I classify them as rock as well]
Studio: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRcXVZFlSWY
Live (at the 1:00 mark): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKKSKCAnNnQ
MIAB is: Markus Hadwiger [Lyrics, Story]; Stefan Poiss [Vocals, Music]
Tracklist:
01. The Last Ninja 3
02. Lightforce
03. The Last V8
04. Supremacy
05. Shades
06. 8 Bits
07. Mindkiller (Remix)
08. The Last Ninja
09. I Love 64
10. We Cannot Go Back to the Past
11. Whatever Mattered
Background
MIAB is an Austrian Electronic back that truly transcends genres. Though many have managed by calling them Futurepop and Progressive Trance, their music is a blend of both those and other subgenres such as EBM, Techno, Ambient, Metal, Rock, and a couple others I can't remember at this time. Their lyrics tell a futuristic story (which also serves as a metaphor to life) that is quite clearly Cyberpunk. Each of their first three albums "Lost Alone", "Dreamweb", and "Crossroads" (which comes with a short story in the lyrics booklet!) serve as a chapter in the story. Their albums range from slow emotional ballads to dance anthem-like track to invigorating Metal-fused electronica ("Dreamweb"), with most vocals creatively vocoded (tweaked in ways that doesn't make sound like an unemotional robot).
Ever since I first heard their album, "Crossroads", I've been hooked and never looked back, except to buy the two albums before it. Their primary allure to me has been the fact that they tell a single story across the span of their discography, and has made me eager for the next album. If you ever listen to their music, you'll see why I was worried that MIAB wouldn't be able to pull it off when they announced they'd be performing live. Fortunately, it went amazingly as Stefan added two guitarists and a drummer to complement the music with rock rhythms that would replace a couple synth lines, that and the vocoded vocals were pulled off well with clean vocals thrown into the mix (I heard an online radio feed of a few live songs of theirs).
The next bout of uncertainty I had with MIAB was when they announced an album consisting of songs from the C64 gaming era put in their style as a tribute to the band's roots. Such a departure from their usual material was worrying as I didn't know what to expect with their recent Rock-spin with their live performances. However, Stefan Poiss said it best when he reminded fans of the entire premise of MIAB, which is to be outside the box.
Review
Despite my concern, this album is great on its own. The 7 tracks that are redone C64 songs really are put in MIAB's style and not just clunky remixes and whatnot that you hear a lot of the time. 'The Last V8' is the only one with lyrics out of the 7, and features Stefan using untreated vocals. Out of the 7, 'Mindkiller' is a MIAB remix of a song the band made in their own C64 game back in the day. While all of these songs are enjoyable, my favorite is the second track 'Lightforce': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKSFFGIR41A
8 Bits: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoGpLl-SUfk
A Homage to the game 'The Great Giana Sisters', this returns a bit to MIAB's usual style. Yet it has a poppy feel, which actually works great for this song, surprisingly. This is the single off of the album and it's clear to see why once you hear it. Once you listen closely and figure out what the lyrics are (or just look in the booklet or on MIAB's website), you'll quickly find yourself following along.
I Love 64: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RoilEVFuKU
My favorite off the album, this a track that will light up the dance floors with its dance beat and rhythm. Much like '8 Bits' you'll want to sing along with the track. The lyrics themselves are creative by using tech terminology as metaphors for physical appearances. The vocoded vocals are clearer on this track and you could probably figure out the lyrics without referring to something else
We Cannot Go Back to the Past: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDhWeVIrtMw
This track is most reminiscent of the band's work on previous albums in terms of musical style (though granted, their style isn't a set thing) and is great with its spacey, atmospheric pads and leads. The only lyrics is the title of the track being repeated in different vocoded levels, and in Stefan's untreated voice. This is definitely my third favorite track on the album.
Whatever Mattered: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkOUQSSBOJA
This is the ballad of the album. The vocals are completely untreated (Stefan's voice has gotten way better since they started performing live), and the lyric delivery is very moving and emotional. What adds to this emotion is the synthesized trumpet you hear periodically in the song. It's very soothing, and yet it will send chills down your spine with its beauty. Though this isn't my favorite track on the album, it is unarguably the best and well put together. Truly, this is the perfect track to close off the album.
Album Extras
Like the albums before, RETRO comes with a numerical code that you can input on MIAB's website to get some extras. These extras include two videos: the official video for '8 Bits', and a live version of "Whatever Mattered" which is just as good with guitars and acoustic drums. As well, there is a C64 song that didn't make it the album from another game of the band's from back in the day, an extended version of 'Reflections' from "Dreamweb", and a 10 minute alternate mix of 'Walking' from "Lost Alone". No, I won't give out the code, so you'll have to buy the album to get ahold of these extras.
Overall
This album is great for background listening. The C64 songs are much better than I had expected and the original tracks are great MIAB fare. For those interested in why the C64 songs on the album were selected, an explanation for each one is in the lyrics booklet. With the extras you can get with it as well, this album has a lot of value and is certainly a purchase. If your looking for electronic music that different than what's typically out there, or you're a hesitant MIAB fan like I was, then this is an album for you. It put my fears to ease, and proved that Stefan does intend to keep the rock-styled spin to the music exclusive to the live performances ("Dreamweb is the only album to really feature Metal and Rock-styled songs). It serves as a break from the MIAB story and proves that the boys are sticking to their philosophy of thinking outside the box.
Rating: 8/10
"R.E.T.R.O." can be purchased here (besides iTunes and Amazon):
North America ($12.95):
http://www.metropolis-mailorder.com.....rodnum=MET+642
Europe (12.50 EUR):
http://www.dependent.de/shop/produc.....-E-T-R-O-.html
Studio: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRcXVZFlSWY
Live (at the 1:00 mark): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKKSKCAnNnQ
MIAB is: Markus Hadwiger [Lyrics, Story]; Stefan Poiss [Vocals, Music]
Tracklist:
01. The Last Ninja 3
02. Lightforce
03. The Last V8
04. Supremacy
05. Shades
06. 8 Bits
07. Mindkiller (Remix)
08. The Last Ninja
09. I Love 64
10. We Cannot Go Back to the Past
11. Whatever Mattered
Background
MIAB is an Austrian Electronic back that truly transcends genres. Though many have managed by calling them Futurepop and Progressive Trance, their music is a blend of both those and other subgenres such as EBM, Techno, Ambient, Metal, Rock, and a couple others I can't remember at this time. Their lyrics tell a futuristic story (which also serves as a metaphor to life) that is quite clearly Cyberpunk. Each of their first three albums "Lost Alone", "Dreamweb", and "Crossroads" (which comes with a short story in the lyrics booklet!) serve as a chapter in the story. Their albums range from slow emotional ballads to dance anthem-like track to invigorating Metal-fused electronica ("Dreamweb"), with most vocals creatively vocoded (tweaked in ways that doesn't make sound like an unemotional robot).
Ever since I first heard their album, "Crossroads", I've been hooked and never looked back, except to buy the two albums before it. Their primary allure to me has been the fact that they tell a single story across the span of their discography, and has made me eager for the next album. If you ever listen to their music, you'll see why I was worried that MIAB wouldn't be able to pull it off when they announced they'd be performing live. Fortunately, it went amazingly as Stefan added two guitarists and a drummer to complement the music with rock rhythms that would replace a couple synth lines, that and the vocoded vocals were pulled off well with clean vocals thrown into the mix (I heard an online radio feed of a few live songs of theirs).
The next bout of uncertainty I had with MIAB was when they announced an album consisting of songs from the C64 gaming era put in their style as a tribute to the band's roots. Such a departure from their usual material was worrying as I didn't know what to expect with their recent Rock-spin with their live performances. However, Stefan Poiss said it best when he reminded fans of the entire premise of MIAB, which is to be outside the box.
Review
Despite my concern, this album is great on its own. The 7 tracks that are redone C64 songs really are put in MIAB's style and not just clunky remixes and whatnot that you hear a lot of the time. 'The Last V8' is the only one with lyrics out of the 7, and features Stefan using untreated vocals. Out of the 7, 'Mindkiller' is a MIAB remix of a song the band made in their own C64 game back in the day. While all of these songs are enjoyable, my favorite is the second track 'Lightforce': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKSFFGIR41A
8 Bits: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoGpLl-SUfk
A Homage to the game 'The Great Giana Sisters', this returns a bit to MIAB's usual style. Yet it has a poppy feel, which actually works great for this song, surprisingly. This is the single off of the album and it's clear to see why once you hear it. Once you listen closely and figure out what the lyrics are (or just look in the booklet or on MIAB's website), you'll quickly find yourself following along.
I Love 64: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RoilEVFuKU
My favorite off the album, this a track that will light up the dance floors with its dance beat and rhythm. Much like '8 Bits' you'll want to sing along with the track. The lyrics themselves are creative by using tech terminology as metaphors for physical appearances. The vocoded vocals are clearer on this track and you could probably figure out the lyrics without referring to something else
We Cannot Go Back to the Past: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDhWeVIrtMw
This track is most reminiscent of the band's work on previous albums in terms of musical style (though granted, their style isn't a set thing) and is great with its spacey, atmospheric pads and leads. The only lyrics is the title of the track being repeated in different vocoded levels, and in Stefan's untreated voice. This is definitely my third favorite track on the album.
Whatever Mattered: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkOUQSSBOJA
This is the ballad of the album. The vocals are completely untreated (Stefan's voice has gotten way better since they started performing live), and the lyric delivery is very moving and emotional. What adds to this emotion is the synthesized trumpet you hear periodically in the song. It's very soothing, and yet it will send chills down your spine with its beauty. Though this isn't my favorite track on the album, it is unarguably the best and well put together. Truly, this is the perfect track to close off the album.
Album Extras
Like the albums before, RETRO comes with a numerical code that you can input on MIAB's website to get some extras. These extras include two videos: the official video for '8 Bits', and a live version of "Whatever Mattered" which is just as good with guitars and acoustic drums. As well, there is a C64 song that didn't make it the album from another game of the band's from back in the day, an extended version of 'Reflections' from "Dreamweb", and a 10 minute alternate mix of 'Walking' from "Lost Alone". No, I won't give out the code, so you'll have to buy the album to get ahold of these extras.
Overall
This album is great for background listening. The C64 songs are much better than I had expected and the original tracks are great MIAB fare. For those interested in why the C64 songs on the album were selected, an explanation for each one is in the lyrics booklet. With the extras you can get with it as well, this album has a lot of value and is certainly a purchase. If your looking for electronic music that different than what's typically out there, or you're a hesitant MIAB fan like I was, then this is an album for you. It put my fears to ease, and proved that Stefan does intend to keep the rock-styled spin to the music exclusive to the live performances ("Dreamweb is the only album to really feature Metal and Rock-styled songs). It serves as a break from the MIAB story and proves that the boys are sticking to their philosophy of thinking outside the box.
Rating: 8/10
"R.E.T.R.O." can be purchased here (besides iTunes and Amazon):
North America ($12.95):
http://www.metropolis-mailorder.com.....rodnum=MET+642
Europe (12.50 EUR):
http://www.dependent.de/shop/produc.....-E-T-R-O-.html
Music Review: God Module- "The Magic in My Heart is Dead EP"
Posted 15 years agoNote: When I use an ['] that means I'm referring to a song, when I use ["] I'm referring to an album.
Official Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZjbx5PcG6o
God Module is: Jasyn Bangert, Courtney Bangert, Byron C. Miller
Genre: Harsh EBM/Electro (?)
1.) The Magic in my Heart is Dead
This is like an Ambient/Noise intro to the EP with plenty of echo and a single line of the title being repeated every now and then. While it's a bit longer than it should be, it reminds me of old God Mod back in its 'Empath' era. As I said, it's a little longer than I think it should be as it clocks in at a little over 3 minutes, but it's still pretty decent.
2.) A Minute to Midnight
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G0w2WiCeKA)
This was co-written by founder Jasyn Bangert and Byron Miller. This is a great first song for the EP as its lyrics remind me of those you'd find on "Viscera" (i.e. very sexual in with horror-style), which is my favorite album of the band's. Now, there's a couple detuned trance leads that I heard elsewhere, and that put a damper on it. It took me a while to figure out, but then I remembered C/A/T used it in a couple of their songs on an EP that came out before God Mod's. So that was a bit of a downer, but otherwise, this is decent God Mod fare that combines the somewhat stripped down instrumentals approach used in their last album "Let's Go Dark" while still managing to bring back just a dash of the haunting Ambient-sort of feel that "Empath" had.
3.) ART
( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgfMv__ngEs )
It's by this time that I start to rejoice that the God Mod I loved when I first got into them is back! More on that later... But first, it becomes by the opening synth that this is the song where the intro track got one of its primary pieces. Originally this was supposed to be the title track, but that changed not long before it's name was finalized. Now much more than 'A Minute to Midnight' does that sort of ambient feeling from "Empath" really come in. Initially, one downside was the dipping trance arpeggio that's sprinkled in the song. This has become somewhat of a downer for me in the Industrial scene. Plus, I'm not accustomed to hearing them in God Mod's music. HOWEVER, after giving it a better listen I realize that it's merely there to complement the primary creepy synths instead of being the main melody or hook.
This has a bit of a lighter tone to 'A Minute to Midnight', but that by no means it's anywhere near a pop song you'd hear on the radio with Jasyn's emotional vocals (albeit layered with some distortion and chorus). This a track that's just as good as the preceding track.
4.) Skeptical
( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8AcZ1t3jWw )
Personally, this my favorite track. I think it's because it has that sort closing-track feel that God Mod does so well with the last tracks on their albums. Jasyn's vocals are the most aggressive on this track out of the other 4 songs on this EP, which I love. This has that sweeping synth that I love that God Mod uses, and the melody synth that I also adore of theirs that makes me think of a haunted playroom. It's a little more poppy (if you can say that when it has aggressive vocals put through a filter) than the tracks before it, but it's still a great track and my fave from the EP. The only complaint (although should I even call this one?) is that this isn't the last non-remix song on this EP as it would have made for a great closing track.
5.) Me, I Disconnect from You
( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usJ1Fw4lfqc )
A Gary Numan cover! It's no secret that God Mod's primary influences come from goth rock artists such as Numan and the Cure, and this serves as a tribute. This also features a first from God Mod, vocoded vocals (put through a vocoder)! Right beside (almost on the same level) Jasyn's distorted vocals lies the vocoded line which makes for an interesting combination.
Thankfully, this is not just a typical cover that sounds exactly the same as the original. Instead God Mod puts it more into their style than bands tend to do with covers. That being said, it is a cover, and therefore has to be the most poppy song I've ever heard God Mod do. That's not to say it's bad, however, it's pretty good. I think you'd only hate this if you were a Harsh EBM/Dark Electro purist, in which case... why are you even listening to God Mod in the first place?
Following these tracks are the remixes: a 'Club' style remix of 'A Minute to Midnight' by Shiv-R, a remix of ART that feels like a dance track you'd hear in the early 90's, late 80's by Ashbury Heights (this is my favorite remix off the EP), a stripped down remix of 'Skeptical' by Project Pitchfork, A dance mix of 'Spooky' off of "Let's Go Dark" by God Mod themselves, an EBM remix of 'A Minute to Midnight' by System Syn , and finally an Electro remix with completely vocoded vocals of 'ART' by Aesthetic Perfection.
Overall:
I had my doubts when I saw the preview, and even with my first listen I was put off a bit by the detuned trance synths used that I wasn't accustomed to hearing in God Mod's music. However, I realized with another listen that they are merely there to compliment the music, which itself is very reminiscent of "Empath" and "Viscera" without feeling like this isn't a fresh work. None of the remixes are bad (though I'd say the worst one is by Shiv-R, even though it's enjoyable), and I didn't really find myself disliking any of the new tracks other that the Numan cover.
I'd say with at least 8 out of the 11 tracks being very enjoyable, this is an EP you should purchase. I give it a 4 out of 5 rating (remember that I rate this as I do an EP, not an album).
"The Magic in My Heart is Dead" can be bought at:
North America ($8.98):
http://www.metropolis-mailorder.com.....rodnum=MET+638
Europe (8,99 EUR):
http://www.outofline.de/shop_neu/ca.....ducts_id=10818
I pimp this stuff because I actually like it! It would be icing on the cake to get paid for this.
Official Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZjbx5PcG6o
God Module is: Jasyn Bangert, Courtney Bangert, Byron C. Miller
Genre: Harsh EBM/Electro (?)
1.) The Magic in my Heart is Dead
This is like an Ambient/Noise intro to the EP with plenty of echo and a single line of the title being repeated every now and then. While it's a bit longer than it should be, it reminds me of old God Mod back in its 'Empath' era. As I said, it's a little longer than I think it should be as it clocks in at a little over 3 minutes, but it's still pretty decent.
2.) A Minute to Midnight
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G0w2WiCeKA)
This was co-written by founder Jasyn Bangert and Byron Miller. This is a great first song for the EP as its lyrics remind me of those you'd find on "Viscera" (i.e. very sexual in with horror-style), which is my favorite album of the band's. Now, there's a couple detuned trance leads that I heard elsewhere, and that put a damper on it. It took me a while to figure out, but then I remembered C/A/T used it in a couple of their songs on an EP that came out before God Mod's. So that was a bit of a downer, but otherwise, this is decent God Mod fare that combines the somewhat stripped down instrumentals approach used in their last album "Let's Go Dark" while still managing to bring back just a dash of the haunting Ambient-sort of feel that "Empath" had.
3.) ART
( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgfMv__ngEs )
It's by this time that I start to rejoice that the God Mod I loved when I first got into them is back! More on that later... But first, it becomes by the opening synth that this is the song where the intro track got one of its primary pieces. Originally this was supposed to be the title track, but that changed not long before it's name was finalized. Now much more than 'A Minute to Midnight' does that sort of ambient feeling from "Empath" really come in. Initially, one downside was the dipping trance arpeggio that's sprinkled in the song. This has become somewhat of a downer for me in the Industrial scene. Plus, I'm not accustomed to hearing them in God Mod's music. HOWEVER, after giving it a better listen I realize that it's merely there to complement the primary creepy synths instead of being the main melody or hook.
This has a bit of a lighter tone to 'A Minute to Midnight', but that by no means it's anywhere near a pop song you'd hear on the radio with Jasyn's emotional vocals (albeit layered with some distortion and chorus). This a track that's just as good as the preceding track.
4.) Skeptical
( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8AcZ1t3jWw )
Personally, this my favorite track. I think it's because it has that sort closing-track feel that God Mod does so well with the last tracks on their albums. Jasyn's vocals are the most aggressive on this track out of the other 4 songs on this EP, which I love. This has that sweeping synth that I love that God Mod uses, and the melody synth that I also adore of theirs that makes me think of a haunted playroom. It's a little more poppy (if you can say that when it has aggressive vocals put through a filter) than the tracks before it, but it's still a great track and my fave from the EP. The only complaint (although should I even call this one?) is that this isn't the last non-remix song on this EP as it would have made for a great closing track.
5.) Me, I Disconnect from You
( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usJ1Fw4lfqc )
A Gary Numan cover! It's no secret that God Mod's primary influences come from goth rock artists such as Numan and the Cure, and this serves as a tribute. This also features a first from God Mod, vocoded vocals (put through a vocoder)! Right beside (almost on the same level) Jasyn's distorted vocals lies the vocoded line which makes for an interesting combination.
Thankfully, this is not just a typical cover that sounds exactly the same as the original. Instead God Mod puts it more into their style than bands tend to do with covers. That being said, it is a cover, and therefore has to be the most poppy song I've ever heard God Mod do. That's not to say it's bad, however, it's pretty good. I think you'd only hate this if you were a Harsh EBM/Dark Electro purist, in which case... why are you even listening to God Mod in the first place?
Following these tracks are the remixes: a 'Club' style remix of 'A Minute to Midnight' by Shiv-R, a remix of ART that feels like a dance track you'd hear in the early 90's, late 80's by Ashbury Heights (this is my favorite remix off the EP), a stripped down remix of 'Skeptical' by Project Pitchfork, A dance mix of 'Spooky' off of "Let's Go Dark" by God Mod themselves, an EBM remix of 'A Minute to Midnight' by System Syn , and finally an Electro remix with completely vocoded vocals of 'ART' by Aesthetic Perfection.
Overall:
I had my doubts when I saw the preview, and even with my first listen I was put off a bit by the detuned trance synths used that I wasn't accustomed to hearing in God Mod's music. However, I realized with another listen that they are merely there to compliment the music, which itself is very reminiscent of "Empath" and "Viscera" without feeling like this isn't a fresh work. None of the remixes are bad (though I'd say the worst one is by Shiv-R, even though it's enjoyable), and I didn't really find myself disliking any of the new tracks other that the Numan cover.
I'd say with at least 8 out of the 11 tracks being very enjoyable, this is an EP you should purchase. I give it a 4 out of 5 rating (remember that I rate this as I do an EP, not an album).
"The Magic in My Heart is Dead" can be bought at:
North America ($8.98):
http://www.metropolis-mailorder.com.....rodnum=MET+638
Europe (8,99 EUR):
http://www.outofline.de/shop_neu/ca.....ducts_id=10818
I pimp this stuff because I actually like it! It would be icing on the cake to get paid for this.
Nothing Gets Me Moving...
Posted 15 years ago... like Nitzer Ebb's "Let Your Body Learn". Nothing's better than some EBM from back in the day (that day being the in 80's).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLeBFfTzj4Y
Okay, this is an updated version of it, but it's unbelievably hard to find a quality clip of it on Youtube. Still, same basic idea as the original.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLeBFfTzj4Y
Okay, this is an updated version of it, but it's unbelievably hard to find a quality clip of it on Youtube. Still, same basic idea as the original.
Age Meme
Posted 15 years ago[x] You know how to make a pot of coffee.
[x] You keep track of dates using a calendar.
[x] You own a credit card.
[x] You know how to change the oil in a car.
[x] You've done your own laundry.
[x] You can vote in an election.
[x] You can cook for yourself.
[ ] You think politics are interesting
TOTAL SO FAR: 7
[ ] You show up for school late a lot.
[x] You always carry a pen/pencil in your bag/purse/pocket.
[ ] You've never gotten a detention.
[ ] You have forgotten your own birthday.
[x] You like to take walks by yourself.
[x] You know what credibility means, without looking it up.
[x] You drink caffeine at least once a week.
TOTAL SO FAR: 11
[x] You know how to do the dishes.
[x] You can count to 10 in another language. (Thanks Rammstein! :P)
[x] When you say you're going to do something you USUALLY do it.
[x] You can mow the lawn.
[ ] You study even when you don't have to.
[x] You have hand washed a car before.
TOTAL SO FAR: 16
[x] You can spell experience, without looking it up.
[ ] The people at Starbucks know you by name.
[ ] Your favorite kind of food is take out.
[x] You can go to the store without getting something you don't need.
[x] You understand political jokes the first time they are said.
[x] You can type pretty quick.
TOTAL SO FAR: 20
[ ] Your only friends are from your place of employment.
[ ] You have been to a Tupperware party.
[x] You have realised that practically no one will take you seriously unless you are over the age of 25 and have a job.
[ ] You have more bills than you can pay.
[x] You have been to the beach.
[x] You use the internet every day.
[x] You have been outside of your home country 3 or more times. (Yay Mexico)
[x] You make your bed in the morning.
TOTAL SO FAR: 25
[x] You have filed a tax return
[x] You have used a pay phone
[x] You have been served alcohol without being ID'd (do parties with my paternal family count?)
[ ] You have purchased stamps at the grocery store
[ ] You have purchased a lottery ticket
[x] You still have and use a VCR (Need it for the old Disney tapes!)
Total: 29
What D:
[x] You keep track of dates using a calendar.
[x] You own a credit card.
[x] You know how to change the oil in a car.
[x] You've done your own laundry.
[x] You can vote in an election.
[x] You can cook for yourself.
[ ] You think politics are interesting
TOTAL SO FAR: 7
[ ] You show up for school late a lot.
[x] You always carry a pen/pencil in your bag/purse/pocket.
[ ] You've never gotten a detention.
[ ] You have forgotten your own birthday.
[x] You like to take walks by yourself.
[x] You know what credibility means, without looking it up.
[x] You drink caffeine at least once a week.
TOTAL SO FAR: 11
[x] You know how to do the dishes.
[x] You can count to 10 in another language. (Thanks Rammstein! :P)
[x] When you say you're going to do something you USUALLY do it.
[x] You can mow the lawn.
[ ] You study even when you don't have to.
[x] You have hand washed a car before.
TOTAL SO FAR: 16
[x] You can spell experience, without looking it up.
[ ] The people at Starbucks know you by name.
[ ] Your favorite kind of food is take out.
[x] You can go to the store without getting something you don't need.
[x] You understand political jokes the first time they are said.
[x] You can type pretty quick.
TOTAL SO FAR: 20
[ ] Your only friends are from your place of employment.
[ ] You have been to a Tupperware party.
[x] You have realised that practically no one will take you seriously unless you are over the age of 25 and have a job.
[ ] You have more bills than you can pay.
[x] You have been to the beach.
[x] You use the internet every day.
[x] You have been outside of your home country 3 or more times. (Yay Mexico)
[x] You make your bed in the morning.
TOTAL SO FAR: 25
[x] You have filed a tax return
[x] You have used a pay phone
[x] You have been served alcohol without being ID'd (do parties with my paternal family count?)
[ ] You have purchased stamps at the grocery store
[ ] You have purchased a lottery ticket
[x] You still have and use a VCR (Need it for the old Disney tapes!)
Total: 29
What D:
Music Review: XP8- Drop the Mask
Posted 15 years agoTracklist:
1. Blind
2. Want It
3. One True God
4. One Pill Missing
5. Breathe The Poison In
6. Awake, Restart
7. Born Dead (feat. Faderhead)
8. Out Of Control
9. Drop The Mask
10. Scorpio Eyes
11. Out For Blood (feat. Fetish Dolly)
12. Bad Guys
13. Our Time (pt.II)
I tend to review only albums and EPs that I like, so I figured it's time to change that. But first, a little personal background.
I first learned about the Italian XP8 3 or 4 years ago, but they never really caught my eye. Only during VNV Nation's US leg of their Judgment tour when vocalist, Marco Visconti, joined the band as a live synth player was I reminded about XP8's existence. Recently they released their fourth studio album "Drop the Mask" so I've finally decided to give XP8 a try.
Unfortunately, the good things I heard about the band didn't show to me on this album. The music itself is great and meshes well. My biggest problem was with the vocals. Where they were supposed to be sunk in the mix, they were buried too buried. On the tracks where the vocals were processed, the processing seemed shoddy. The only track I actually enjoyed the vocals was "One True God", the third track on that album. After that, I typically found myself thinking 'this would have been a great instrumental track.' The only other exceptions to this was the band's collaboration with Faderhead and Fetish Dolly. But when your better tracks are collaborations with other bands, there's an issue.
The first two tracks, 'Blind' and 'Want It' are in my mind the worst tracks on the album and leave a bad taste in your mouth. Granted, it picks up with the third track, but the vocals remain the downer of the album. I like the fact that they tried to play around a bit with clean and processed vocals, and I love it when bands experiment with their music a bit, but with 'Drop the Mask' it feels half-hearted.
Overall I would say this album is a victim of mastering that doesn't fit the band's formula. For a work that's received a positive reception, to me it feels very mediocre. I hate to say that as I am a HUGE fan of Industrial music and I'm easy to please in that respect, but this is just what I'm seeing. Visconti doesn't seem to know how to properly use his vocals for the band's music (which I must stress, the instrumentals are not unenjoyable). Perhaps if XP8 were a Synthpop band and not an EBM band and only used clean vocals, I would be able to enjoy listening to them a lot more.
This is not an album I would recommend buying, and I give it a 5 out of 10. It would have been closer to a 6, but the fact that out of only 3 tracks I liked completely, 2 of them were collaborations with other bands and that in itself is a minus. That, and I had to force myself to keep listening after track 8, I was becoming so bored with it. I was wondering why I never heard much from Industrial fans (excluding professional reviewers) about this band, but now I think I know why. Sorry, XP8, but I have to give "Drop the Mask" a thumbs down.
1. Blind
2. Want It
3. One True God
4. One Pill Missing
5. Breathe The Poison In
6. Awake, Restart
7. Born Dead (feat. Faderhead)
8. Out Of Control
9. Drop The Mask
10. Scorpio Eyes
11. Out For Blood (feat. Fetish Dolly)
12. Bad Guys
13. Our Time (pt.II)
I tend to review only albums and EPs that I like, so I figured it's time to change that. But first, a little personal background.
I first learned about the Italian XP8 3 or 4 years ago, but they never really caught my eye. Only during VNV Nation's US leg of their Judgment tour when vocalist, Marco Visconti, joined the band as a live synth player was I reminded about XP8's existence. Recently they released their fourth studio album "Drop the Mask" so I've finally decided to give XP8 a try.
Unfortunately, the good things I heard about the band didn't show to me on this album. The music itself is great and meshes well. My biggest problem was with the vocals. Where they were supposed to be sunk in the mix, they were buried too buried. On the tracks where the vocals were processed, the processing seemed shoddy. The only track I actually enjoyed the vocals was "One True God", the third track on that album. After that, I typically found myself thinking 'this would have been a great instrumental track.' The only other exceptions to this was the band's collaboration with Faderhead and Fetish Dolly. But when your better tracks are collaborations with other bands, there's an issue.
The first two tracks, 'Blind' and 'Want It' are in my mind the worst tracks on the album and leave a bad taste in your mouth. Granted, it picks up with the third track, but the vocals remain the downer of the album. I like the fact that they tried to play around a bit with clean and processed vocals, and I love it when bands experiment with their music a bit, but with 'Drop the Mask' it feels half-hearted.
Overall I would say this album is a victim of mastering that doesn't fit the band's formula. For a work that's received a positive reception, to me it feels very mediocre. I hate to say that as I am a HUGE fan of Industrial music and I'm easy to please in that respect, but this is just what I'm seeing. Visconti doesn't seem to know how to properly use his vocals for the band's music (which I must stress, the instrumentals are not unenjoyable). Perhaps if XP8 were a Synthpop band and not an EBM band and only used clean vocals, I would be able to enjoy listening to them a lot more.
This is not an album I would recommend buying, and I give it a 5 out of 10. It would have been closer to a 6, but the fact that out of only 3 tracks I liked completely, 2 of them were collaborations with other bands and that in itself is a minus. That, and I had to force myself to keep listening after track 8, I was becoming so bored with it. I was wondering why I never heard much from Industrial fans (excluding professional reviewers) about this band, but now I think I know why. Sorry, XP8, but I have to give "Drop the Mask" a thumbs down.
Forced Species Meme
Posted 15 years agotaken from the ever powerful 
BlickFen
1. If your fursona had to be a primate, it'd be...
A Mongoose Lemur
2. If your fursona had to be a feline, it'd be...
A cheetah
3. If your fursona had to be a canine, it'd be...
A Dire Wolf
4. If your fursona had to be a hoofed animal, it'd be...
A Klipspringer!
5. Cetacean
Bottlenose Dolphin
6. If your fursona had to be a rodent, it'd be...
Definitely a Prairie Dog
7. If your fursona had to be reptile, it'd be...
oooh, a tough choice... um... if it came down to just one choice, Gila Monster.
8. If your fursona had to be a marsupial, it'd be...
Sugar Glider
9. If your fursona had to be a fully aquatic animal, it'd be...
Mosasaur >:)
10. If your fursona had to be an amphibian animal it'd be...
Marbled Salamander
11. If your fursona had to be an avian/bird, it'd be...
Kestrel, probably
12. If your fursona had to be a creepy crawly, it'd be...
Not sure, but for the coolness factor, the Black Tunnelweb Spider
13. If your fursona had to be a real or unreal hybrid, it'd be...
Oh hey, would you look at that... a Ferret/Black Mamba hybrid.. :P Hehe, well, it would probably be a Skunk/Ferret hybrid otherwise.
14. If your fursona had to be a mythical creature, it'd be...
I like the idea of being a Chimera
15. If your fursona had to be a Pokemon/Digimon , it'd be...
Wow, okay it's been years since I played Pokemon... um, I'd probably go for Charmeleon.
16. If your fursona had to be a vehicle, it'd be...
Hmmm, maybe a Leopard 2A4
BlickFen1. If your fursona had to be a primate, it'd be...
A Mongoose Lemur
2. If your fursona had to be a feline, it'd be...
A cheetah
3. If your fursona had to be a canine, it'd be...
A Dire Wolf
4. If your fursona had to be a hoofed animal, it'd be...
A Klipspringer!
5. Cetacean
Bottlenose Dolphin
6. If your fursona had to be a rodent, it'd be...
Definitely a Prairie Dog
7. If your fursona had to be reptile, it'd be...
oooh, a tough choice... um... if it came down to just one choice, Gila Monster.
8. If your fursona had to be a marsupial, it'd be...
Sugar Glider
9. If your fursona had to be a fully aquatic animal, it'd be...
Mosasaur >:)
10. If your fursona had to be an amphibian animal it'd be...
Marbled Salamander
11. If your fursona had to be an avian/bird, it'd be...
Kestrel, probably
12. If your fursona had to be a creepy crawly, it'd be...
Not sure, but for the coolness factor, the Black Tunnelweb Spider
13. If your fursona had to be a real or unreal hybrid, it'd be...
Oh hey, would you look at that... a Ferret/Black Mamba hybrid.. :P Hehe, well, it would probably be a Skunk/Ferret hybrid otherwise.
14. If your fursona had to be a mythical creature, it'd be...
I like the idea of being a Chimera
15. If your fursona had to be a Pokemon/Digimon , it'd be...
Wow, okay it's been years since I played Pokemon... um, I'd probably go for Charmeleon.
16. If your fursona had to be a vehicle, it'd be...
Hmmm, maybe a Leopard 2A4
