April 21, 2011

Custom Nike Allegro & Livid Lows! How to Get Into the Customs Game - Jacob Patterson

Yet again, another insightful video from one of my favorites on Youtube: Jacob Patterson. If it's not obvious enough, this man is heavy into the custom shoe game. As of now, and from what I know, he resides in good ol' Los Angeles, CA and is willing to take on just about any challenge.

The title of this post is pretty self explanatory, but I figure I can go somewhat more in depth on what he's talking about. Basically, entering into the customs field is a trial and error sort of thing. You figure out what works and what doesn't. A key piece of advice that he lends and that I find very logical, is to already have in mind the design you want to lay down. Another bit of guidance he provides is that you may not make a sure fire living from doing this, but it's what you do with the opportunity's that it may afford.

So without further adieu...




Jacob Patterson Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/PattersonArt 
Jake Ferrato@JBFCustoms Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/JBFCustoms 

Music Is... Mariah Carey: MTV Unplugged

Released June 2, 1992

Only 2 years give or take after her first record, this woman already had an MTV Unplugged live session. I think that makes a pretty loud statement. As powerful as her voice is already, in that stripped down acoustic environment it seems to glisten eve more. The live performance is comprised of the major hits from her previous albums "Mariah Carey" and "Emotions".

Track List

Emotions
If It's Over
Someday
Vision Of Love
Make It Happen
I'll Be There
Can't Let Go

I don't have a favorite from this list because I love them all. A highlight however, would be the surprise track "I'll Be There". The duet between her and male singer Trey Lorenz is excellent. My favorite part is where Trey sings "...you know I'll keep holding on" the second time. He holds this high, high note that's totally insane. All of the songs arrangements are a little different but nothing too drastic. For one reason or another, some don't consider this to be too good. Well, an opinion is an opinion and we're all entitled to have them. In my opinion, "Unplugged" shines as a substantial portion of her musical catalog, and there's plenty of pages.
Ehh, because I mentioned it

Music Is... Mariah Carey (Self titled)


Mariah Carey was born March 27, 1970 or 69' in Huntington, Long Island NY. The youngest and third child of her family, the girl has a voice range like no other. The octave that she can hit is just incredible. The only other artist that comes to mind is Minnie Riperton, and that was roughly 15-20 years before. By the way, for those of you who read this, let me know if there's anyone else who can hit that range clearly like those two.

January 12, 1990 was its debut release in the states. I don't think anyone knew that she would burst onto the scene showcasing her powerhouse voice in the fashion she did. Though the album sales did amazing, very commercially successful, you have to listen to the songs yourself to get the full effect. "Vision Of Love", the first track and single, was the initial introduction we had, and what a first impression. The song marinates in the beginning, she really takes her time with it and then she truly lets loose during the middle and end. Honestly she smashes the whole song but those are parts that stand out to me the most. Then there's the third track "I Don't Wanna Cry". This one tells of a relationship between two people who know they're over, the writing's on the wall. A somber song but one that indicates it's time to move on. Her vocals here, although toned down a bit show that she can rock it anyway she wants. Another favorite of mine is "Someday", the forth track and third single. A relatable subject about how the one you thought was your significant other leaves you for someone else, only to come running back to you when that rendezvous doesn't work. I love the arrangement of this one on her live CD "Mariah Carey: Unplugged". I could ramble on and on about that one but I'll try and save it for another post.

An exceedingly impactful debut. Just as many other longstanding female artists, she has solidified herself as a major benchmark. "Mariah Carey" is one you can always go back to when you want to see how it should be done.

Music Is... Erin McCarley: Love, Save The Empty

Released January, 6 2009
Erin McCarley is an alternative singer/songwriter that I'm not too familiar with other than one single I've been hearing lately titled "Pony(It's OK). McCarley, born January 8, 1979 in Garland, Texas, says that she has had a fairly easy childhood. Even though she was raised by two loving parents, she mentions that it gave her a sort of false sense of reality.
"It was a very happy home with very little pain to deal with...it kind of gave me an unrealistic view of everything...That's not how the world is, you know?"
 Songwriting and delivery are all very key factors for her music. She notes that the presentation and inflection that you place on the lyrics are just as important as the words themselves. I agree. Her songs hang between the line of reality and a perfect world. A kind of happy twilight zone I would call it. Though you could possibly label some of the tracks as pop, I wouldn't quite go that far. Again, more alternative. The beats aren't what I'd typically expect. A nice song is "Sticky-Sweet". A story of having that one who brightens your life a bit. On the contrary, tracks like "It's Not That Easy" and "Gotta Figure This Out" sight the feelings of becoming insecurity and uncertainty.

This album documents the hunt for the real thing in others as well as what's real in her. Not a bad debut at all and an album with no filler tracks in my opinion. Check it out.

April 20, 2011

Music Is... Erykah Badu: Mama's Gun


The 2000 follow up to "Baduizm" "Mama's Gun" provides the same flavor and wonderful insight into her experiences and observations. Another aspect of her music that I appreciate that I didn't mention on the other review is her impeccable knack of harmony. On nearly all of her tracks she parallels the foreground singing with great background vocals. I love the intro to the song "Didn't Cha Know". I think someone's beating the congas and shaking the maracas on that opening number. The "haaaaaa" in the background makes the song that much more melodic. The "Bag Lady" is described very symbolically. All that baggage she constantly refers to is the weight of life and the many situations she gets herself into. I think Badu describes it best: "Bag lady you gone miss your bus You can't hurry up Cause you got too much stuff...", well spoken. "Penitentiary Philosophy" is an unexpected 70's rock style that presents a different mood to the album. Fresh, jazzy, soul beats that are almost therapeutic.

Again another solid record and a constant breath of fresh against all the pop that's going on nowadays. Hey, I don't dislike pop, but it's nice to have something to break up the monotony from time to time.


Music Is... Erykah Badu: Baduizm


Any sort of controversy 11, or 12 years afterward put aside, this album is golden to the fullest extent possible. Though a 1997 release, this is truly timeless. Something so creative, that it doesn't just compete with today's artists, but stands as concrete work period. Erykah has undoubtedly solidified herself as a neo-soul/R&B/hip hop...no, forget that. Ms. Badu has marked herself as simply a musical genius. Through creative jazz inspired beats, she speaks about everyday happenings and turns them into an engaging story. I love the way she pronounces the individual syllables for each word of the lyrics. Anyone can sing and sing well. However, that it factor is needed to convey the thoughts and have the listener genuinely feel it. I don't think anybody will be able to fully describe in one sentence what the it is, but when it comes to good stuff one sentence doesn't cut it.

Every track has an underlying subtlety that makes for easy listening with no friction. No song clashes with the next unnecessarily. The beats are so mellow that you can't help but head nod and bob to each one. Take the well known "On And On". Referencing what I mentioned earlier this is a prime example (for me) of that syllable bouncing. "Oh what a day What a day what a day", we can all relate to that. Familiar intro, yes. Makes you want "a cup of tea". Other tracks like "Appletree and "Rimshot(intro)" just keep the ball rollingin the right direction.

For a debut album, this sounds like she's been hit making for years on end. Anyone that has somehow manged let this one slip through their fingers, wipe the butter off immediately because it's worth catching and holding onto.

April 19, 2011

Music Is... The Diary Of Alicia Keys

Released December 2, 2003 in U.S

A gorgeous woman and a talented one at that. Yes the girl has skills. Alicia Keys is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. As I've mentioned, record sales and chart positions have no effect on my outlook towards an album. Same case here. I don't know where this one lies regarding sales but I know what it speaks about effortlessly: Love, confusion, trust, relationships, friendships, give and take. We've all gone through or are currently experiencing some, all or one of these experiences. Mrs. Keys, not deviating too far from the content of her first record, sings about relatable subjects but with an evident maturity that enables feelings much deeper.

I got this alum about 2 or 3 years after it's release and I'm glad I did. It aloud me to analyze the music for myself besides what constantly rotated on the radio stations and video channels. Don't get me wrong, I liked what I heard, but I've never known an entire record to receive airplay. "The Diary Of Alicia Keys". Each track transitions into the next almost seamlessly. We know the main singles "You Don't Know My Name", "Karma" and "If I Ain't Got You". Many of these songs have been karaokied so many times its a wonder people aren't sick of them. I say, you never get tired of the good stuff though. Good stuff it is. Every track features her skills as a pianist. The notes are crystal clear and at the forefront no doubt. Unearthing gems like "Diary" and "If I Was Your Woman" let you know she can do it simply because she can. I like that she has some hip-hop tracks and oldschool balladry styles in the mix. She lets you know that the piano is the center of attention here. Wonderful narration style work that is insightful yet not completely tell-all.

Indeed, Mrs. Keys initial burst onto the scene was very refreshing and continues to be. She offers a very much mature, grown woman vibe to the industry that I could never tire of. Keep it going.


Music Is... ABBA Gold: Greatest Hits


I've heard it back and forth as to weather or not this group has officially called it quits. But regardless if it's true or not I  highly enjoyed listening to what they had to offer. "ABBA Gold" is a compilation album of their best and it doesn't fail. Roughly counting up the songs I'm getting 95; that includes any spanish versions. Some songs may have been a bit overplayed but I think that's a tribute to the music. If it's good then it's good. Considered to be too much pop by some I see the music as not only bridge between mainstream pop and what is good music, but really good craftsmanship. I know times were different and the perception of pop was considerably diverse, but the quality just seems unparalleled to me. You have the infamous "Mama Mia", "Fernando", "Take A Chance",'S.O.S", "The Winner Takes It All" and "Santa Rosa"; the list goes on.

Yes, there have been many "number one" albums and "greatest hits" arrangements. In my opinion however, they've established a strong standing and lasting effect that can't be erased. Pop, yes. Memorable, oh yes.

April 15, 2011

Music Is... Aerosmith: Dream On (single)

Released January 1973


Featuring "Dream On"
Their debut album spawned their first single and one of my favorite songs in this world: "Dream On". I love it. I feel like sort of a hypocrite. Not in that I dogged these guys or anything. I like to credit myself on paying attention to the lyrics as well as the melody and beat. I feel I didn't do that with this track until a few months ago. I had always had the notion that it was a very meaningful song but as I mentioned I didn't decide to dig until a month or so into this year.

If your like me you could stand to look at a lyrics sheet from time to time. Not that I couldn't understand what he was saying per-say but seeing them up close makes things a little clearer.


every time that I look in the mirror
all these lines on my face getting clearer
the past is gone
it went by like dusk to dawn
isn't that the way
everybody's got their dues in life to pay


yeah, I know nobody knows
where it comes and where it goes
I know it's everybody's sin
you got to lose to know how to win


half my life's in books' written pages
live and learn from fools and from sages
you know it's true
all the things come back to you


sing with me, sing for the years
sing for the laughter and sing for the tears
sing with me, if it's just for today
maybe tomorrow the good Lord will take you away


dream on, dream on, dream on,
dream yourself a dream come true
dream on, dream on, dream on,
and dream until your dream comes true
dream on
A great song from a great band, check it out. 


April 14, 2011

Paparazzi, Media Hounds: Are They Necessary?

A question I pose in my head very often is: Were it not for media hounds and paparazzi, would these musicians and actors and stars of the like be able to garner the fan base and super-stardom that they have now? Of course I'm not talking about a few pictures here or there. I'm not referring to a red carpet showcasing or a debut picture or and album signing event. I mean full blown, none of your business, invading privacy, tabloids, false pictures (ughh), the list goes on. In the past few years I've seen this invasion only increase and I wonder if this is an indispensable ingredient that seems to be an overwhelming flavor in this big entertainment gumbo.

There are countless, literally countless examples I could use. There's no need. Basically I'm talking about the culmination of them all. When you think of your favorite star or entertainment icon, more than likely there has been something written bout he/she or them, and more often than not there's some negativity splashed in there somewhere. What do you do when your in the line at the grocery store? Your head looks to the left or right and glances at those tabloids. Mmm, outlandish tabloids. Can't stand them. But hey, I'm no saint. I've definitely looked at few covers in my lifetime. Bold print, big bright letters, captions and whatever, italicized words; that's how they do it. Oh, can't forget some of the notorious pictures we've seen. Too many to count. Again, is it necessary? What role and to what extent do they play? Let me say this. I understand wanting a background story on someone. A bio or autobiography describing the past to the current. Even a sensible interview, one on one, face to face is not too much to ask. However,using a little common sense I'm reasoning that it's like a catch-22 situation. No matter how much or how often a celebrity spills their guts, it will seemingly always be misconstrued and reversed.

Then again do we like it? I think in a way most people like to hear what's kept behind the curtain. Most of us like to hear the "untold story" and formulate more opinions based on what's read or heard despite the fact that it may be untrue. In the same token I think that these juicy tidbits add to the popularity of the individual or individuals. Honestly and personally I don't care to dig into someones life. If they wanted it known they would authorize it themselves. I wouldn't be upset if every gossip magazine was blown into a million pieces and never printed again.

Alas, it can be said that stars and the media go hand in hand like milk and cookies. Some are just chocolate chips and others apparently come with pecans, walnuts, peanut-butter and plenty of other goodies. As far as I can see, there's going to be plenty of munching for a while to come.

April 12, 2011

Music Is... Real Life (Joan As Police Woman)

I was completely inspired to review this album by a blogger I follow known as The B-Side. He laid out her forth studio album "The Field" and gave it a pretty positive review, considering today was his first time hearing it. So, the cover above is for her debut album released June 12, 2006 and a year later hear in the U.S. Judging from what I've heard from this point I can say that my outlook towards this record will be favorable as well.

Indie/rock. That's been the main description regarding her music as a whole. In my opinion I feel that there's more to be said for this one than just placing a common label upon it. Details? Sure. I like albums that I have to listen to a few times in order to get the meaning. That's exactly what I'm finding in this case. Ms. Wasser has enveloped "Real Life" around a true story telling technique that indeed shines through. I know I'll have to listen tot he whole album again and again in order to get a full understanding of what she's saying here. I found one particular full track on YouTube that I love. It's the last song on the album titled 'We Don't Own It'. Extremely dialed down track. No hoopla or anything. That goes for the whole record. Simple. Guitar, maybe some drums and a few other effects. The lyrics are confusing me a bit. I get them but I don't. I'll let you read them and draw your own conclusion.

We don’t own it


You will know by the way
That he cuts his eyes
Looks away from the door
That walked in you
You will know it will go
Down in history
How sweet he was to you
And all the others


So hand it over
Cause we don't own it
It's in the mystery
Our silent fantasy
Cause i
Nor you
Could ever
Know what it's like
To have the night fall
And be felled by the night
No, we don't own it


All you know is the way
That he made you feel
He made you feel safe enough
To feel at all
It's all there in the moment
You understood
That he's not going on
And you're still going on


So hand it over
Cause we don't own it
It's in the mystery
Our silent fantasy
Cause I
Nor you
Could ever
Know what it's like
To have the night fall
And be felled by the night
No, we don't own it


It's his story
Our subtle jealousy
Cause i
Nor you
Could ever
Know what it's like
To have the night fall
And be felled by the night
No, we don't own it
 
I guess that's real life though. Constantly looking for a certain understanding of things...Check this out though. A few listens is never a bad thing.

April 11, 2011

Music Is... OK Go: Oh No

Released August 30, 2005
Continuing with the "Go" guys here I'm feeling good about reviewing this one too. Being the artsy person I am, I have to say I like the cover. I know its a simple floral pattern inside the letters but I can see the symmetry and I can't knock it. I feel like I'm starting in the middle considering I already spoke on the album afterward and one single before. Again from reading different reviews and opinions I see that many feel this one isn't as good as "OK Go" and that the sound fizzles out towards the end. Others say it's fantastic with very catchy melodies and lyrics. Essentially were all a work in progress. I'm a bit on the lighter side and I see a good consistency throughout. A change up, for my ears, is 'A Million Ways'. I like the tambourine with the snare. Adds a nice jingle. Damian Kulash, the lead vocalist sounds particularly good on this one. The corresponding video is very simple. Their in a backyard dancing, and in a humorous way, they are perfectly in sync. It's really good. My favorite track 'Here It Goes Again' and it's tag along video are simply a genius pairing.

A solid piece of work altogether. Nothing too headbanging or too dance. Worth your while especially if your a fan thus far. 

Music Is... OK Go: Of the Blue Colour of the Sky


Ok, here we go again. Ehh, that was a horrible pun, but lets get going. On my last review I took a look at the single 'Get Over It' on the self titled album "OK Go". Released January 12, 2010 I mentioned this one towards the end of the previous post. I'm pretty excited to give an examination to the fullest extent I can.

I don't think that bands fully depart from themselves, I just feel that their are different avenues of expression. OK Go has definitely traveled on a different road this time around and they've made a few pit stops along the way. The first track 'WTF' is something to savor. A gurgling synth sound, voice modification (not sure what you'd call that specific type), off kilter, unconventional beat pattern. Goes with the subject too; that of trying to figure out how this girl takes him up and down through emotions and being unsure of what will happen next. I find one of the more interesting songs to be 'White Knuckles'. I had to look up that term since I was truly unfamiliar with its meaning. It means (from Webster): marked by, causing, or experiencing tense nervousness white–knuckle ride on a roller coaster>. That being said, I'm much clearer on whats being said. Basically, once an action is done, you'll never be able to reverse it. How do you feel now? A universal concept that's very solid. Beat wise, there's and eclectic sound that draws you in. Nice overall tempo and a creative display. 

Music Is... OK Go - Get Over It (single)

Released September 5, 2002
Madden NFL 2003. I loved that game. Through the initial introduction of EA Sport's EA Trax, I heard this song for the very first time. I was rummaging through the games features for quite a bit of time before this track rolled around. I loved it and still do. 'Get Over It'. The title pretty much says it all. Listening to the song a few more times, it reminds me of 'We Will Rock You' by Queen. I'm not sure if that was the inspiration but there are some similarities to me. Very contageous beat. For a 2002 release, it was surely a breath of fresh air. In the early 2000's there was a sameness in the musical world that was a little boring. As far as I'm concerned, change is good and necessary.

Their latest release "OK Go: Of The Blue Colour Of The Sky" contains a sort of funk/rock tone meshed with this mellow, easy listening vibe. It's fantastic. I'll have to review this one soon. For now "get over it".


April 08, 2011

From JP Art's OTHER channel: Graffiti: Art or Vandalism?

*Note, how I came upon this topic in the first place was due to my YouTube browsing, again. I'm subscribed to both JP Art's OTHER channel and his original Patterson Art. He posted a video of his response to this question from a girl building a documentary. Some may consider it lengthy, but it's very interesting and draws you in if you really pay attention.

vandalism - willful or malicious destruction or defacement of public or private property 

art - (4a definition) the conscious use of skill and creative imagination especially in the production of aesthetic objects; also : works so produced

Graffiti: Art or Vandalism?

I feel that the majority of you will agree with me in that this is a commonly proposed question amongst art goers and those who see this form of expression as unnecessary and destructive. Personally, I love graffiti though I'm not too good. I'm trying to hone my skills in that regard, but that's for another day. In this video, Jacob makes tons of valid points. One that stood out to me the most is where he mentions the right for the owner or owners of that property or object to enforce their right not to have it tagged or marked with whatever image or distorted lettering that person so chooses. Another logical point he brought to the forefront was that graffiti is at most times solely considered art or vandalism when more often than not it is both.

So if this artful skill is displayed in what is considered or seen to be an inappropriate place then it's not art? If it is the same form of expression displayed in an appropriate area then it is art? Again a very debatable question that will no doubt remain a hot topic and will generate an in depth discussion whenever it arises.

What are your thoughts? Let me know what you think about it. 

April 07, 2011

Music Is... Cartoons and various animation

Think of your favorite cartoon, your favorite anime or both. Now, what truly makes them come to life? Granted you need great expressions, some detail, a nice plot, theme, atmosphere and good characters. Just think about this though: what are all those qualities worth without the tunes to add that 4th dimension? I mean really, just voices? I don't think any cartoon would be as successful as as it is without the accompaniment music.

The first major line of cartoons that comes to mind is Looney Tunes created by Warner Bros. Cartoons. This is a block that has made itself synonymous with its intro just as much as its outro. All the way from the black and white days to technicolor to far more current methods, Looney Tunes remains a mainstay for using major orchestrated pieces as well as subtleties in their production. My favorite example of this is the one titled "Rabbit Of Seville". Elmer Fudd unknowingly chases Bugs Bunny onto the Barber of Seville opera set and the play begins. Pure classic.

Looking ahead you have Disney-Pixar features like "Toy Story", "Up" and "A Bugs Life". More Warner Bros. with "Animaniacs" and "Pinky and The Brain". Great musical numbers from Dreamworks, including their short films. Great animation like "Transformers", "The Legend Of Zelda","Josie and Pussycats","ThunderCats"; just tons of great stuff. The examples are limitless. Just think of how boring your favorite scene might be without the music to add dramatic effect. Your favorite character's getting ready to handle business and there's no build up. That wouldn't be good.

As the crowd, as the observers we need that music to give us something a little extra, and personally I could never get enough.

April 04, 2011

Music Is... David Dallas


David Dallas. This man traveled from far south of the equator, haling all the way from New Zealand. Whew, talk about jet lag. Anywayz, as he would describe it (and what makes sense to me), the hip hop scene way down south is just as prominent as it is in the U.S., just a miniature version. You have your underground labels, mainstream radio, major artists and so forth. I don't know how Mr. Dallas here would be categorized in the public's eyes in the thick of it all. If you ask me, he's someone doing what he loves and is very easy listening for my ears. Lets proceed.

Originally planning to major in computer science, he was on a different path altogether. His mindset wasn't completely set on having a career in that field however.
 "from the moment my sister told me you could skip your lectures, hang out in the city and go to the arcade without anyone telling you off – I knew that it was the place I needed to be." 
While in his last year attending Auckland University, he met some people who showed him what the hip hop look was. He noticed them doing their own thing and that inspired him to begin recording and writing his freestyles down. This started with some recording software he downloaded, purchased a mic and got started. The group around him was pretty encouraging. Soon his demos came into the hands of New Zealand producer Forty One and things went from there. Forming a duo named Frontline, they've done some touring, record making and are currently working on his latest album "Something Awesome", and I'm highly looking forward to it.

If you haven't heard any singles from this record yet, let me fill you in. The main one I'm bobbin my head to is 'Big Time'. What makes this track for me is the horns and the turntable scratch in the background. His flow and tempo alongside the beat is ridiculous. It's so fluid and consistent. Another one to look out for is 'Sideline'- ft. Che Fu. This one (and it could solely be me) sounds like it samples The Spinners 'I'll be Around' only in a different key. Others such as 'Eyes On Success' and 'Caught In A Daze' are sure to grab your attention. Again his delivery is very coherent, an old school feel to it.

I give him an A+ all the way around. Who knows, my opinion could be subject to change, but I don't see that happening in the near future. Definitely give this a chance, your bound to love it. 

 *Not in stock just yet, but you can place an order in advance on amazon.com when available*


April 01, 2011

Music Is... Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor


Lupe Fiasco's debut studio album on September 19, 2006 felt more as though it was released months before then. If you were anything like me during this time, there was no method I wouldn't use to get my hands on some new music. The way incomplete pieces were being leaked (and still are) on the internet, it's a surprise to me this album didn't sink before it could swim.Though my patience could have stood to be  a little stronger, I'm glad I had the opportunity to here bits and pieces and finally the entire work give or take a year later. "Food & Liquor" truly showcases this man's wherewithal as a great lyricist and songwriter. Listening again, I hear what drew me to this album in first place. However an even closer listen six years down the road and I'm more mindful of the content and story telling technique that he utilizes....Shale we?

First I love how he constantly pays homage to 1st and 15th Studios in Chicago, Illinois. You can't miss it. 'Kick Push' which is practically the anthem tells the story of a guy who falls in love with skateboarding, and follows him as he matures and finds love. One of my favorite tracks 'I Gotcha' lets you know he was birthed in "chi-town" and how things have flipped now that he's acquired a certain status. Those that would discourage him in the past he lets them know that he's doing what they said he couldn't. What seemed lame to them is what propelled him to where he is. Love it. 'Pressure' is highly underrated and to me is a highlight track that puts his skills on the front line. Then you have 'Daydreamin'. Come on, who doesn't like Jill Scott's vocals slaying it on the chorus. She's always a plus. The title of the album comes from the multiple food & liquor stores in Chicago which Lupe described as a sort of tug and war between the good (food) and liquor (evil). The cover is equally as interesting. I learned it was inspired by a skate deck he owns. As you can see he's floating in the air surrounded by various items. A little outward from his right  knee looks like a Nintendo DS. By his left hand could be some sort of organizer or cell phone. Near his upper left shoulder is the Qur'an, a highly regarded part of literature in Muslim culture.

The culmination of these things; the cover, the content, the production and the rhymes make for an impressive first impression. I guess all of us have our "Food & Liquor" struggles. When put to a nice beat, they somehow become more attractive...

Music Is... Blaqk Audio



Typically the style of music that this duo creates isn't in my repertoire of musical taste. But for the sheere fact they are completely brand new to me, I had to give it a listen anyway and I have to admit I'm a little intrigued by the sound provided. The style here is a techno, electronic, synthesized, dance, heavy bass to the umph degree. These two Davey Havok(left) and Jade Puget are current members of AFI, a California based band formed in 1991. As AFI they have eight studio albums under their belt and from what I can tell have no plans on calling it quits anytime soon. The formation of Blaqk Audio had been in the works for some time now, fermenting in 2001-2002. A few songs had been written for the album "CexCells" such as 'Snuff On Digital' only to go on hiatus until 06' or 07'. After resurfacing to the forefront, the album began to get more studio attention and reached completion on August 14 2007.

"Cex Cells" is a very dance, heavy synth, EBM oriented album. EBM is short for electronic body music, this combination of electric dance music and an industrial sound. One particular track I'm drawn to is 'The Love Letter'. It measures pop-rock and the industrial sound perfectly. In my opinion, each song carry's a somber undertone but balance out nicely. A unique album as far as I'm concerned. Something to check out if you want to branch your taste.



Track Listing
  Stiff Kittens
Between Breaths (an XX perspective)
Snuff on Digital
Bitter for Sweet
Where Would You Like Them Left?
The Fear of Being Found
On a Friday
The Love Letter
Semiotic Love
Cities of Night
Again, Again and Again
Wake Up, Open the Door and Escape to the Sea


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