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Antidote - Simple Plan

Canadian 5-piece  Simple Plan  released new debut single  The Antidote  over a week ago and it does not disappoint. The group is known for t...

Friday 31 December 2021

The best albums of 2021

It's that time of year again, where we say goodbye to one and hello to another. Although 2021 hasn't exactly been the year that it was expected to be, one shining factor that has stayed consistent is music. Music this year has been one for the books, competitive, energetic but mainly just fun and reliable.

There's a bit of something for everyone, but what albums are the top picks of the year?


Holding Absence - The Greatest Mistake of my Life

A true obliteration of expectations after their 2019 releases Afterlife and Die Alone (In Your Lovers Arms). Holding Absence released an LP that radiates so much energy, confidence, and emotions, that you almost forget any other album was released this year. This album has everything you could want from an album and more.

 


Ice Nine Kills - The Silver Scream 2: Welcome To Horrorwood


In their ever-so magnetic style, INK released an LP that is darker, more wistful, and bolder than ever before. Think about all the monsters in the night, wrap them up, and put them in a box. That is The Silver Scream 2: Welcome To Horrorwood.


 



Mod Sun - Internet Killed The Rockstar


There is so much nostalgia, heart, and soul to be explored in this album. Mod Sun shines his talents in an LP worthy of where he is currently in his career. The heart and soul in this album pick up the emotions and the energy from 98 to 100 instantaneously. A very loving piece of work.

 


Black Veil Brides - The Phantom Tomorrow


A conceptual world that feels ever-so real. BVB have showcased their sound and overall aesthetic poise with their storytelling and dystopian world. The cinematic feel of the album makes this album one of their most desirable yet, showing just how accelerated they have become in their songwriting. Classic sounds but same band, we welcome Black Bird…we welcome The Phantom Tomorrow.



Pretty Reckless - Death By Rock and Roll


Brooding and dark - the elements that fans of Pretty Reckless are so fond of. Taylor Momsen’s vocals are the driving force of this album which showcases some more stripped-back rock songs, and other heavier, more energetic tracks. An overwhelming and healing LP for the band, this intense album shines more rock and roll than ever before.

 


Bullet For My Valentine - Bullet For My Valentine


It was about time BfMV made a self-titled album and it far from disappoints. Hitting straight back into their routed sound with tracks like Knives and Parasite, those raspy screams of Matt Tuck will ring in your ears for minutes. Heavy, suspensful and darkly intense. If you loved BfMV's other albums, then this should be in your arsenal too. Offereing a lot of their original sounds from their first two albums, BfMV hone in on particular elements and make them the driving forces of the tracks.



Waterparks - Greatest Hits


2021 was a year of attitude and no f’s given from Waterparks. Although the name might suggest otherwise, the fourth studio album sees more diverse sounds from the trio with a stronger attitude, limitless creativity, and so much energy. If the other three albums weren’t enough for you, then this 17 track LP will hit the spot.



 

Architects - For Those That Wish to Exist


Brutal, chaotic, and broodingly dark. What more could one ask from an album like this. Exploring their surroundings and the world that currently surrounds them, Architects have taken what they are experiencing and put it straight down on paper. Inclusive and overly relatable, the band has created a strong eighth album, that has broadened their sound and given a fresh taste to an archaic sound.

 


Evanescence - The Hidden Truth


With empowering piano ballads, a love letter-esque vibe, and nostalgic sounds of Evanescence, Amy Lee and the band have created the light. An airy feeling in the darkest of days, this album is the driving force of it all. Anthems from start to finish wash over your ears, and offers a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is some light out there. Very true to Evanescence style.

 


Don Broco - Amazing Things


True to style and sound, Don Broco explored some fresh and almost unpredictable elements. Just as witty as they portray themselves, Broco has created a strong and diverse set of tracks that in themselves, exhibit finesse and energy.

 


The Maine - XOXO: From Love & Anxiety in Real Time


Summer in an album. Overwhelmingly energetic, emotional, and welcoming. With everything that was happening throughout the year, this album was the sidekick that no one knew they needed. More experimental in the pop elements of their music, The Maine created an LP that speaks volumes to the world, feeling nostalgic in some areas and much like Evanescence, reminds you that even in the darkest times, there is light.

 


 


Top EPs of 2021:


Against The Current - Fever

Although short, Against The Current did it again. A short play that brings so much energy, heavy rock elements and staple sounds to one place. Just when you think that the roof couldn’t be raised any higher, ATC proof us wrong. Fever is just the beginning, of the return to the band's nostalgic sound.

 


Bronnie - Love Letters & Hate Mail


Pop-punk anthemic vibes, dark yet fun and relatable. Bronnie is known for creating overly catchy music. This EP over her other short plays showcases the growth in her songwriting and is almost a love letter in itself to her fans. If you are a Bronnie fan then this is an unmissable EP.

 


Meet Me @ The Altar - Modern Citizen


Exploring some nostalgic pop-punk sounds, MMATA has created from start to finish a track for different pop-punk stages. Never Gonna Change feels like a track you would expect from more modern pop-punk sounds, like those of Machine Gun Kelly, whereas other tracks are strongly reminiscent of those relating to Paramore, A Day To Remember, and more.

 


Hot Milk - I Just Wanna Know What Happens When I’m Dead


Heavy pop-punk is not what you would expect to hear from Manchester-based, Hot Milk. This EP is their heaviest release to date, which offers versatile electronic beats, pop-esque hooks, and overwhelming energy that is stereotypical to the band's sound. It's no secret that they are rising to pop-punk fame fast, but once you hear this EP, it will become clear why. With no signs of slowing down, this short play has much to offer.

 


Tuesday 28 December 2021

Heart of a champion - Hollywood Undead ft. Papa Roach and Ice Nine Kills

A refreshing retake on their track, Rock/Rap fusion Hollywood Undead has managed to match fire with more fire. The dashingly raw vocals of Papa Roach's Jacoby Shaddix instantly lift the verses from the original track. An overwhelming achievement of having Shaddix feature in part of the rap also leaves that extra taste of delightful to the ear. Just when the combination of Shaddix and Hollywood Undead appeared already rather cheery to the ear, there is one final very familiar voice to fill the void, Spencer Charnas. Ice Nine Kills frontman Charnas gives the trio the star power this track was looking for. 

The meticulously thought-out verses between the artists keep the listener hooked every second of the tune. It opens with the heavy vocal verses from the Rock/Rap hybrids, something that fans of Hollywood Undead will not be surprised by. 

 

Instantly it jumps into Charnas and his smooth vocal, pulling the fans in with little effort. After two rounds of the chorus, Shaddix makes his entrance. Strangely but unsurprisingly a rap verse from Shaddix is an element that is rare from Papa Roach frontman these days. Together, the trio offers a lot to the track, with overwhelming energy and undeniable chemistry that you expect from a collaborative project. Could the same have been achieved with other artists? Probably, but it is likely that the outcome of Heart of a Champion would be drastically different.

 


Hollywood Undead are no strangers to having incredible collaborations like Sleeping With Sirens, Kellin Quinn, or Good Charlotte’s Benji Madden. This collaboration may very well have just topped both of those collaborations completely.

 

Friday 19 November 2021

Antidote - Simple Plan

Canadian 5-piece Simple Plan released new debut single The Antidote over a week ago and it does not disappoint. The group is known for their anthem-esque tunes but The Antidote hits differently.


Photo Credit: Google


This new track is the first single that the band has released in over two years, so there has been a lot riding on this single since their 2018 hit Where I Belong featuring We The Kings and State Champs. As previously stated in an interview with Kerrang magazine, The Antidote was originally written before the pandemic, but the gang believed over 20 months later the song had more importance now than ever before; which was the main reason for the timing of this release.


Photo Credit: Google

The single is an infectious tune, typical to most other works in their discography. Surprisingly as a collective, they’ve decided to recreate their older sounds of the band, and in many ways match it to their modern-day style. Its overall anthemic beat is reminiscent of similar tracks from earlier albums, combining elements fans adore like loud chorus’, extremely high energy within the beat, hearty lyrics that are emotionally stimulating, and most of all honest. Simple Plan fans are staple believers in the band’s honesty of life and their experiences; which is why the tracks outstanding 1 million streams on Spotify is not surprising.


Simple Plan has spoken up many times in the past week following the release of the track, saying… “We hope this song will hit home with our fans and help them deal with the difficult moments we’re all facing.”


The challenge for them was to create a new song that resonated with the audience, that was true to them, their style, and the music. From the very beginning, they aim to have a connection with every fan, and this track has reinstated that feeling for both the band and their fans.


The Antidote is likely to be the perfect starting point to the upcoming Sixth studio album, yet to be announced but sure to be coming sometime in 2022.





The single is available now on all major streaming platforms!










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Sunday 31 October 2021

37 Best Halloween songs that should be on your playlist...

It's that time of year all over again...spooky season. Halloween is here, the day for horrific costumes, cliche costumes, and dressing up just for the fun of it. It also means that it is time to get your party on! Whether you've started with the Halloween games, have your spooky cocktail menu at the ready, orange and black coloured snack everywhere, spooky film lists raring to begin, or simply have woken up excited for the day -- its time to set the vibe. 

No clue what to put on your Halloween playlist? No problem, we have got you sorted. With this list of both movie soundtracks and spooky studio hits, it's time to find out if this list of spooky songs is going to serve as a Trick or Treat on your Halloween playlists...

There's a range of crowd-pleasers, enough here for all ghouls, zombies, witches, werewolves, and everything between.


1. Monster Mash - Bobby Pickett

An essential classic to every playlist, and one that everyone is bound to have heard at one time or another. 


2. This Is Halloween - Danny Elfman

Looking for the perfect movie soundtrack to get those spooky, chilling vibes flowing -- The Nightmare Before Christmas has the key tracks.


3. Ghostbusters - Ray Parker Jr

An absolute staple whether it is spooky season or not. Its the perfect atmospheric dance floor tune.


4. Dracula - Rob Zombie

Who doesn't love a song about the celebrity of all celebrity vampires...Dracula himself.


5. Thriller - Michael Jackson


If you are worried none of your guests will be dancing, they will be sure to get moving when this one comes on.


6. Stranger Things theme song - Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein

Is there anything more suited to spooky season than the creepy undertones of the Stranger Things opening song?


7. Hells Bells - AC/DC

A bit of classic rock never hurt anyone and with those introductory ghostly bells its the perfect spooky mood for any party.


8. I'm in Love With a Monster - Fifth Harmony

Wanting a more fun loving, light-hearted upbeat tune, this is the one. Hotel Transylvania's very own closing track.


9. Zombie -  The Cranberries

We talk a lot about classics...this one is one without any doubt.


10.  I Put A Spell On You - Bette Midler

Who doesn't want Hocus Pocus vibes on Halloween.


11. Time Warp - Nell CampbellPatricia QuinnRichard O'Brien

For every dancing king and queen on the dance floor.


12. I'm Not A Vampire - Falling In Reverse


Get your teeth sunk into something fresh with an extra bit of bite to it. 


13. The Addams Family theme song - Vic Mizzy


To all my Wednesday Addams fans out there.


14. Runnin' With The Devil - Van Halen


Rock with David Lee Roth romanticing the devil.


15. Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) - David Bowie


The vast paced tune that redefines chills.


16. Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead - Ella Fitzgerald


All my green witches, dance your hearts out!


17. Like The Zombies Do - Milo Manheim

Catchy, and inspires your inner zombie to come out dancing.


18. Spooky, Scary Skeletons - Andrew Gold


This song has it all, Skeletons, spooky chills...and its rather catchy.


19. Calling All The Monsters - China McClain


Who remembers A.N.T. Farm? For all my Disney lovers out there.


20. Calling All The Monsters - Thriii

A modern take on the original masterpiece by China McClain, our very own Disney Princess.


21. Skeleton - Set It Off


Who said 2021, wasn't modern enough to make the list? Released just in time for Halloween and sure to knock your body into the dancing spirit.


22. Flesh & Bone - Baby Ariel, Kylee Russell, Carla Jeffery, Pearce Joza, Meg Donnelly, Chandler Kinney and Milo Manheim


AWOOOO my wolves!!


23. Alice - Avril Lavigne


Straight from the mouth of a rock icon, to the ears of our spooky hearts. This dark and eerie-like track offers even the pop-iest lovers a beat.


24. Rabbit Hole - Bronnie


Spooky vibes and a drum beat sure to get you moving.


25. Ways To Be Wicked - Dove Cameron, Sofia Carson, Cameron Boyce and Booboo Stewart


All the witchy vibes!

26. The Walking Dead theme song - Bear McCreary


When spooky zombies just aren't enough.


27. Girls Talk Boys - 5 Seconds of Summer


Ghostbusters here, there and everywhere.


28. Hip to Be Scared - Ice Nine Kills


Ice Nine Kills says it all.


29. Highway To Hell - AC/DC


It is impossible not to dance when this comes on.


30. Love Bites - Ice Nine Kills


Sticking to the werewolf theme for a second...or 180 seconds to be exact.


31. Love Bites but So Do I - Halestorm


Lzzy Hale is all the spooky vibes you can need, whether its Halloween or not.


32. Monster - Skillet


Fully of energy, light-hearted beats and a chilling lyricism.


33. Day of The Dead - Hollywood Undead


We've honoured our Ghouls, Vampires, Zombies and Werewolves along with the occasional Skeleton but let's push it one step further.


34. Oogie Boogie's song - Ken Page, Ed Ivory


Any song on a Tim Burton soundtrack should be on your list, Oogie Boogie's song, matches the perfect amount of spooky with enjoyable and catchy.


35. Game of Death - Danny Elfman


1984/2012 whichever your mood, skeleton dogs for the win, every time.


36. Remains of The Day - Danny Elfman


If you're a lover of Tim Burton films and Tim Burton soundtracks then you've likely seen Corpse Bride. Like all Tim Burton films this pick is an essential.


37. Ghostly Music Box - Haunted Mansion

One word needed...outstanding. Haunted Mansion has one of the most enjoyable soundtracks in a Halloween film, all round. (Outside of Tim Burton ofcourse)




That's a wrap on this years top songs to add to your spooky playlists. Whether you are a sountrack stan or a horror film fanatic, there's a little something for everyone.









Let us know on our social media which pick/s are your favourite and what your spooky playlists look like!




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