Billbored Reviews

Drunken Poetry- The One... (Entry #2)

2010-03-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

Drinking makes you think of some really random things which make you think "what the hell was I thinking and why?". I don't know why I wrote this poem (it's pretty damn random...even for me!). All I know is that it stems from a few memories about a story I was told when was around 12-13 years old. I won't spill the beans on this background of this story, but let me know how you interpret it...

The One That Looks Like Me

Two elements come together

Creating two beasts from one tether.

The first one fine

Everything normal.

Presented to this world

Nothing formal.

A second one crafted

Against the odds.

No plan ever drafted

Except by the hand of God.

Summoned by a woman's tear

Sculpted from another.

Not supposed to be here

Baked in the light of summer.

Two years gone past

Mirrored with blue eyes.

A miracle cast

Down from the heavenly skies.

Is it me I see

The one that looks like me.

-Doc

written on March 16, 2010

Infinite Playlist... The Streets - The Escapist

2010-03-19T08:34:00.000-07:00

Lyrical poetry...that's typically what you get with The Streets. With his thick British accent, Mike Skinner's rap style is more like casual talking than the typical rap delivery...but that's what's so great about their song The Escapist. Completely different from the shitty "rap" stuff on the radio...Skinner's song actually tell a story and makes you ponder on life...oh god, you actually have to think about a song to understand it's underlying meaning instead of being spoon fed the usual dribble.

The Escapist makes my Infinite Playlist because this song is lyrically and musically beautiful...definitely a good song to reflect to.

To find my entire infinite playlist, visit Billbored Review's youtube channel and look under my playlists...it's constantly being updated as I add a weekly song to the blog.

-Doc

I Want The Gold...

2010-03-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

For all you ghetto- ass leprechauns out there hiding up in trees and shit...this one's for you!

Drunken Poetry - Simple Question (Entry #1)

2010-03-12T07:09:00.000-08:00

We all get inspiration from somewhere...mine happens to be at the bottom of a glass. I seem to be more creative and honest about writing when I've had a few beers or a glass a Shiraz. I hope you enjoy the first entry in a long line of endless drunken poetry...I have titled this one Simple Question.

Where do we come from?

Is it the heavens above or some dust in space
Don't stop to wonder, just keep moving
The answer will elude you, only proving
That it was a worthless question in the first place.

--Written on February 27, 2010

Infinite Playlist... Bat For Lashes - What's A Girl To Do?

2010-03-10T03:51:00.000-08:00

This is a new section on the blog that is dedicated to the songs that will forever remain onto my infinite playlist.

With a look like Lily Allen and voice like Bjork...the first song that I can't get enough of is Bat For Lashes' What's A Girl To Do?. Now I know some of you must be wondering what type of incredible shit am I smoking (and where can I get some?)...~~unfortunately~~ I'm not on any drugs, but damn, I am addicted as hell to this song. I love the eery sound and the harpsichord beat...B4L makes falling out of love seem so painful.

It also doesn't hurt to have a music video that is one of most creative, yet so simple, videos I have ever seen...reminds me alot of Donnie Darko....probably from the rabbit-guy on the BMX bike...trippy as hell! The symbolism of falling out of love is captured very nicely here. Falling out of love really doesn't hurt that badly...it's more of a slightly sad feeling like letting go of your colorful balloons. And over-turned car would be the emotional wreck that person you fall out of love with will feels like when you tell them about your change of heart. Pretty powerful stuff here.

My wife gives me alot of grief for liking this gypsy sound, but whatever...she always tells me "if you don't like hippies, then why are you listening to hippie type music?"...I don't know...I just can't help but enjoy the song...it's so mesmerizing! (as I look at her with kaleidoscope eyes).

Well I hope you enjoy the song...it's different, but a good different.

-Doc

Album Review: Canibus - Melatonin Magik

2010-03-08T06:36:00.000-08:00

Artist: Canibus
Album: Melatonin Magik
Release Date: February 9, 2010
Website: http://www.myspace.com/canibus

Official Billbored Review: 7.5/10

Can-I-Bus...for an underground rapper/free-styler whose name makes you think nothing other than smoking marijuana (even though it's actually spelled cannabis), you will find very little on the subject matter...the only thing this he is blazing is hot tracks. Canibus has always been known for throwing down marathon rhymes over hard-hitting beats that are guaranteed to take you on an epic journey...and nothing could be further from the truth than his new album Melatonin Magik. If you actually like hip hop, then this is one album you DO NOT want to miss. Canibus' hunger really shines through on every track...and thankfully his guest appearances bring that drive as well (normally Canibus doesn't add guests to his albums). And whether you think Canibus is a true lyrical genius, or just a guy who likes to throw big words around trying to sound smart...one has to admit, this guy knows how to spit straight fire! Welcome to intelligent hip-hop!

*Now before I proceed to reviewing the album tracks, I just want to give a fair warning to all the hip hop "fans" reading this blog...I think this album might be a life-changer for alot of you wankstas (yes...50 Cent can use it, why can't I?) Canibus is not your average rapper...his rhymes actually might make your head explode like a cartoon character as your brain filled with endless information. There are no "club hooks" or shitty beats made on FruityLoops...this is some hard shit...I hope you're ready...here we go!

Now normally I don't mention the Intro of an album (usually because they are filler and add no real value to the album)...but this particular one is an exception. With chill "Timbaland-esque" beat, it sets the stage for the type of topics that he is going to rhyming about...the subconscious minds and endless thoughts of people, political corruption and the media, and the overall state of the hip-hop industry.

That leads right into the title track Melatonin Magik...which can be interpreted as his diss reply to LL Cool J...but without the lyrics to back it up. As a direct slap in the face to LL, Canibus literally steals his instrumental...but offers no direct verbally diss to LL. Being true to his free-style battling technique, Canibus is always trying to outshine someone one their own track, but unfortunately he does not make it happen with this track (compare the 2 tracks yourself and see which one you like better). Other than that, this track brings alot of energy and excitement to the start of the album...a grand opening precession.

The album continues on with incredible track after incredible track...with my favorites being Kriminal Kindness, Hip-Hop Black Ops, The Dragon of Judah, and Fraternity of the Impoverished. Each one of these songs has a killer beat and complex lyrics that really make you think about the state of the United States as a whole, and the corrupt state of the hip hop industry. If you only listened to four songs on the album, these would be the four that you cannot miss!

And thankfully there's a diss on the album...Canibus comes hard with another diss on Eminem...this time it's an Air Strike (Pop Killer), and C tag-teams with the hip hop group D12 to deliver the blow. You might remember them as the group that Eminem signed, made famous, and then kicked to the curb...so you can understand why these guys are pissed. I love how Canibus is brings extra fuel to the fire with this one and I love how he calls out Eminem for being a little bitch for how he treated Mariah Carey.

I'm was trying to find a weak track on this album, and it honestly took my listening towards the end of the album to finally find one...that track is Do It Live. Even though I enjoy the sound bite of Bill O'Reilly yelling "we'll do it live, fuckin thing sucks!"...classic!...I think this song is under par. While I thought the beat strong in it's own respect, all guest appearances from Blaq Poet, Skarlit Rose and Presto really brought the quality of the song down...I think Canibus could've destroyed this track on his own. There is no room for amateurs here.

Another thing that can be considered "weak" is the fact that Canibus has a very distinct delivery...everything is always so intense....there is no dial for his intensity...it's either 0 or 100. He needs to learn to change it up a bit so we can better interpret his emotions and punchlines...after a while the lyrics blend together in such a way you could almost take his lyrics from one track and dub them over another beat to make a complete new song. I think that hurts him in the long run...and probably why he hasn't become as commercially successful as other rappers.

Overall, this is one of the sickest albums I have ever heard. Unless you are a stoner misguided by Canibus' name or some little bitch that thinks Lil' Wayne and Drake are the greatest rappers ever, then you will terribly disappointed...but the rest of you all, this album will actually make you use your mind (and a book) to truly understand and decipher his rhymes (it's nice to listen creative subjects that only intelligent people can appreciate). It's great to have an Emcee around that really reflects the intellectual aspects usually overlooked in hip-hop culture...unfortunately, with a dumbed-down hip hop community, Canibus will continue to remain the most underrated rapper of all time....as well as the most misunderstood Emcee...damn shame too! I guess there's always the upcoming Ludacris album to look forward too...yeah (insert sarcasm here).

Track List
1. Melatonin Magik Intro 7
2. Melatonin Magik 7
3. Kriminal Kindness 8
4. Hip-Hop Black Ops 9
5. The Dragon of Judah 9
6. Post Traumatic Warlab Stress 7
7. Air Strike (Pop Killer) 8
8. Fraternity of the Impoverished 9
9. Dead By Design 7
10. Only Slaves D.R.E.A.M. 7
11. Ripperland 6
12. Stomp On Ya Brain 6
13. Beat Butcher Get Em' 7
14. Do It Live 4
15. Sharpshootaz Blazin' Caps 7
16. Gold & Bronze Magik 6

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Doc

Concert Review: Muse and Silversun Pickups

2010-03-02T09:14:00.001-08:00

A few notes before getting to the official concert review...

First,...I do not recommend buying tickets from someone on Craigslist and arranging to meet them at the front of the concert venue. It is almost a guarantee that they will be late...as they were for me the other night.

Second, if you are ever going to a sold-out concert at the Patriot Center (on the George Mason University campus), make sure to get there really early...traffic is a bitch!

Now, onto the concert review...I finally got into the concert around 8:45 (45 minutes after the show started thanks to those late ticket-selling assholes) and managed to catch the last two and a half songs performed by the opening act Silversun Pickups. I can't really review their whole performance, but from the songs that I was able to catch, they sounded exactly the same live as they do on the album...the lead singer Brian Aubert still sounds like a girl (and not in a bad way...I know alot of people thought he sounded like the female lead singer for Republica when they first heard this band). I wanted to see Silversun after hearing them on the radio last summer with their song , and I was lucky to get there in time to see them perform it. The other song I was able to see in completion was ...and was very impressed! Plus an added bonus was seeing a female bassist in a band...Nikki Monninger definitely knows how to rock out, but also remain classy in the short pink dress she wore.

As for Muse's performance, all I have to say is Amazing! (in a high-pitched gay guy voice). They sounded amazing, the light show was amazing, their stage was amazing...my whole experience there was simply incredible and mind-blowing. Now I know alot are you are going to say "Hey! WTF? How can you love the live performance so much, but ripped on the album like you did? Seems kinda hypocritical to me."

And my response to you good sir would be "Excuse me! How dare you question me?...I guess I would compare listening to Muse to watching a sporting event."

Let me explain myself...their album was nowhere as good, or exciting, as the live performance...take baseball for example...it sucks balls watching a game on tv...but if you actually go to the ballpark for a game, its much more enjoyable...you experience the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the atmosphere that an idiot box just can't deliver. So, as good as Muse might be live, they sound boring in comparison on the album. Capice? (and no, it's not pronounced "Cap" "Ice")

Alright, now back to the concert. Wow! To start things off, their stage lit up with three gigantic columns broadcasting a man continuously walking on an infinite staircase...and then all of a sudden, the song Uprising burst through speakers and the band could finally be seen. Each member of Muse had their own column that they performed on...the columns were kinda split into three sections (a base platform that moved up and down, a middle opening where each band member was, and a stationary ceiling section that displayed graphics that were cordinated with symbolism each song). Words can't really express the shear wonder one would get from looking at these columns.

The light show (especially for the first few song of the show) blew me away...their signature green laser beams were shooting everywhere, giving Patriot Center a speckled glow. Their eery presence was maintained into their second song Resistance. Overall, I think the light and visual show was probably the best part of the concert...they flashed in perfect sync with each song and the visual put more meaning into the songs...really driving home their message of government control and expressing the paranoia that Muse wants you to feel.

Muse performed a lot of songs off their new album The Resistance...if I remember correctly, the other new songs they performed include Undisclosed Desires, Guiding Light, United States of Eurasia, and Unnatural Selection (which was the song they closed the show to). They couldn't really play the three-part Exogenisis Symphony as there was absolutely no way to incorporate a full symphony in such a small venue (unless...no, that's just crazy talk now). But the most memorable and enjoyable songs of the night (as they seemed to be everyone's favorites) were Starlight, Our Time Is Running Out and Supermassive Black Hole...all from previous albums. The crowd really got into both of these songs and were singing and clapping the whole time...really the only time during the whole show that the crowd was fully interactive with the song.

Overall, this concert simply rocked. It was the best concert I've been to in my short life and will probably be in my Top 5 favorites of all time for a long time. The atmosphere is amazing and you will not be let down with their in-your-face performance...fantastic!

Verdict: Highly Recommended! (basically, if Muse is coming to your town and you miss them, then you will kicking yourself in the head for missing out)

And for your entertainment, I made a video concert compilation of Muse's show at the Patriot Center...Enjoy!

Concert Review: Cage the Elephant

2010-02-27T10:15:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's taken me a couple days to post my review on the Cage the Elephant concert....but drinking alot of whiskey really takes it's toll on the body.

So...I went to the concert at the 930 Club on Thursday night with my buddy Hernandez (thank god we have Fridays off from work), and of course we got there a little late and missed the opening act. We got VIP tickets to the show (for FREE!) and ended up hanging out the family/friends of one of the opening bands...As Tall As Lions. I had checked out this band before on youtube and thought they were a very generic rock band...and seeing them live confirmed that observation. According to a drunk note I left myself on my phone, I basically summed up the band with the following...

"Not very balanced. A shit ton of bass that drowns out the vocals. Also, the bassist is a ridiculous dancer. His friend said that he likes to do alot of drugs. Go figure."
To be honest, I don't even know the songs that they performed...it all sounded the same. The bass really did drown out the vocals and you couldn't understand any of the words...except for an occassional "Yeeeah" or "Whoooa". I mean good for them for getting a gig with Cage the Elepant, but I hope I never see or hear them again.

Now onto the main act...Cage the Elephant. These guys definitely know how to put on a good rock show. The music sounded incredible, and it was a lot more balanced (I could actually understand the words that were coming out of his mouth). The energy was constantly high, with people dancing, fake "moshing", and doing a shit ton of uncontrollable head banging down in front of the stage...with the VIP area being no different. The crowd was singing all the songs (it's nice when the fans can sing alot with the band), and would burst into an uproar every time Matt (the lead singer) would stage dive into the rabid crowd. I didn't realize the effect a stage dive can have on a crowd....these people went fucking nuts for it...and of course, Matt did it a couple of times to feed their hunger. The songs that were most enjoyable were Free Love and Ain't No Rest For The Wicked...even though I enjoyed all the songs, these two made the crowd go wild and described the concert experience the best.

Towards the end of the show, I happened to glance over at a crowd of dancing people next to me and smiling and laughing in drunken stuper...somehow some guy took that as "hitting on" him....weird. They kept dancing closer and closer to me and Hernandez, and as they were heading out the concert, one of the guys whispers into my ear and invites me to a club to keep the dancing alive...having never been hit on by a guy, I was strangely confused (not sexually) and just laughed it off. The following note I left explains the situation a little....

"Some guy just invited me to Lima for some gay ass dance off. Do I have a "gay face" when I'm drunk? God, I hope not. Help!"
Overall, the concert was awesome and the energy that Matt (the lead singer) brings to the table is infectious. He definitely knows how to work the crowd (which is pretty impressive considering how young the band is and they only have one album so far)...Matt's seizure-like convulsions all over the stage made epileptics watching Pokemon look like volunteer firefighters doing "Stop, Drop and Roll" in front of a kindergarten class...it was pretty cool, and very impressive. I happened to get a 20-minute impromptu interivew from Matt...I told him I was from "Billbored Reviews"...which is not a lie...but I think he thought I was from Billboard...god, I fucking love play on words....it was good to get that 1st victim.

He was really nice to talk to. I asked him about his influences and who they thought they sounded like (his response...."We have many influences and we are trying to make our own sound...a sound that we like and enjoy") and I asked him about how they got their song as the theme song for the Xbox 360 video game Borderlands (his response..."Our management made that decision for us...they thought it was a good idea so we said sure"). I didn't like that answer, but at least he was honest about it.

Verdict: Highly recommended concert!

-Doc

Album Review: Josh Thompson - Way Out Here

2010-02-22T10:21:00.000-08:00

Artist: Josh Thompson
Album: Way Out Here
Release Date: February 23, 2010
Website: http://www.joshthompsonofficial.com/

Official Billbored Review: 5/10

Josh Thompson is a new country artist hailing from Wisconsin (yes, you heard me right...a country singer from Wisconsin...who knew) who brings a raw, blue-collar style to his music. His debut album Way Out Here is pretty strong for a debut, especially for one that was put together in the first seven months he came to Nashville. He mostly sings about the realities of life in the middle class, and his confidence in the subject is reflected in almost every song on the album. But what seems to be lacking in the vocals is that real country accent...I feel that if you are creating a country album, you should at least have a country accent that isn't so forced...but I'll let it slide this time around because he at least has a genuine persona that makes up for what he lacks.

His first single, Beer On The Table, was recommended to me a few months back when it first made it onto the radio...my wife said that the song reminded her of me because I love beer and she swears that the only reason I go to work is so I can have a cold beer at night...thanks honey! My buddy Matty (also an avid drinking fan) said that Josh Thompson had some drinking songs that were definitely worth checking out...and I'm glad I did. Some might find this song to be pretty cheesy and "done before" (which is kinda true), but one can't deny how infectious it is and how perfectly it describes some people's lives. I enjoy listening to it while drive home from work knowing that a cold Sam Adams is waiting for me in the fridge. Hurray beer!

Blame It On Waylon is a strong second song on the album, and it has kinda creates an outlaw-type personality for Josh. I definitely like the fact that the song rocks (even though I'm not a big fan of name-dropping)...this song makes me feel like such a badass and gives me an excuse for my rebelish ways (oh yeah...I'm a hard ass who doesn't care...take that society!). I guess everyone has those moments when you question "why are you acting like that?"...you gotta have something to blame it on...and Josh has chosen Waylon as his scape-goat (for me, I tend to blame my stubbornness on the infamous "Davis gene").

(*Note: I do find it quite embarrassing though that Mr. Thompson has entirely missed the point of why Waylon was considered an "outlaw"...Waylon was an outlaw because gave a big Fuck You! to the country music he created his music outside the typical Nashville corporate scene and wasn't going to do things their way anymore...yet Josh is just another newcomer sucked right into the typical Nashville formula...just something to think about.)

For the recently heart-broken, Thompson sings Won't Be Lonely Long to remind you that you will have friends who there for you...and to get drunk with to wash away the pain. (I've basically just decided that I will probably like any song that has to do with drinking...is that bad?) Instead of crying into your pillow, why not cry into a cold beer...makes sense to me! Probably my favorite song on the album...I especially like the following lyrics..."how lucky am I?, that you said goodbye, at 7 o'clock on a Friday night...I won't be lonely long, by the first time that first beer's gone". I love the convenience of the breakup.

Songs that didn't do much for me include Sinner (sounded like a crappy Christian-rock band song...too religious for me and way too many cliches that define a "sinner" in Christianity) and the album-titled song Way Out Here (it seemed like he was trying way too hard to impress the listener with his "genuine country background"...name-drops the three big "John's" in country life...John Wayne, Johnny Cash, and John Deere).

Overall, the album was pretty solid for a newbie...I enjoyed how raw and exciting his vocals were, even though some of the songs were a bit cliche (but I don't blame him...it's basically impossible to be 100% original these days). And with the Jagermeister Country Tour in full swing right now (we already missed his stop at the 9:30 Club back in mid-February), it seems Thompson has a lot forward to in the upcoming year and I wish him all the best.

Track List
1. Beer On The Table 6
2. Blame It On Waylon 6
3. Sinner 3
4. Won't Be Lonely Long 7
5. Always Been Me 5
6. A Name In This Town 4
7. Way Out Here 4
8. You Ain't Seen Country Yet 5
9. Back Around 6
10. I Won't Go Crazy 4

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Doc

Friday Flashback - New Genre...Deja Vu Edition

2010-02-19T11:22:00.000-08:00

So...I'm sitting here talking with a buddy on gchat and a deja vu moment came about me...he was reminding me to do a Friday Flashback and we were talking about potential song candidates. I knew exactly what he was going to say...only 2 seconds after he sent me a message...I guess today is day that the Matrix has decided to expose itself to me...I...am...the...chosen...one...?

And we got to talking about country songs and how good they were back in the day...and which songs really got us into country music. There is defining moment in every person's life when a particular song comes along and makes you really interested in a new music genre...for me it was delivered by Toby Keith.

I remember hearing the song I Should've Been A Cowboy during the good ol' Hampton Roads summer days of 1993 while driving to soccer practice with my dad is his blue Toyota Camry (back when they didn't have all these bullshit accelerator problems...if it ain't broke, don't fix it). This song would come on the radio at the same time every day, so we got a dose of it every Tuesday and Thursday...just enough to get me hooked.

It was something from the usual mix...and still easy to sing-a-long to. It was pretty much a random song for my already emerging hip hop/R&B music style...from Rump Shaker, Shoop, and Motownphilly (and like every song by Boys II Mean)...country songs just didn't fit it, but thankfully this one did!

Being a military brat and always living on base, I never really got to live in the country...so this song made me dream about what life would be like living out on a open prairie, sitting by candle light, and breaking young girls' hearts. It led me on an adventure that my life experiences hadn't yet provided...maybe it can provide new and different adventure for you too?

I hope you enjoy this song as much as I did (and still do)...cuz it's never too late to stop dreaming about being a cowboy.

(P.S. - If you want to gchat with me, just invite me on gmail...my username is BillboredReviews)

-Half Man, Half Amazing

Album Review: Sade - Soldier of Love

2010-02-18T06:37:00.000-08:00

Artist: Sade

Album: Soldier of Love

Release Date: February 9, 2010

Website: http://www.sade.com/

Official Billbored Review: 3/10

You might not remember, or even heard of, Sade, but she and her band have just released a new album called Soldiers of Love...and it is currently tearing up the charts (take a hike butter-face Lady GaGa, you piece of shit). Sade had a huge hit back in the early 80's with Smooth Operator, which is their most internationally successful single to date, and another hit single No Ordinary Love from back in early 90's. Sade's sultry and sexy voice in very recognizable, as well as their soothing musical style...but even too much of a good thing gets old.

After an 11 year absence from the music world, Sade is officially back...and I have never been soooo fucking bored! This album was not worth the wait....and I can't believe it took 11 years to create this rubbish! They unforntunately returned in the most boring way possible...with a "safe" album with the same repetitive beats and repetitive vocals that is only acceptable as elevator music...yaaaawn.

I don't even think it's worth my time (or humanly possible) to dive into this album and choose the best and worst songs from this album...every song sounds identical (in fact, every song dating back to the 1980's by them has sounded the same...it's amazing that people keep buying the same repackaged shit year in and year out). This album offers nothing new, nothing exciting...and if you disagree, you can go to hell! I can't honestly see anyone enjoying this album, even with all the "excitement" surrounding their return...it just doesn't live up to the hype!

I'm gonna go take a nap now...so I guess it is good for one thing....

Track List

1. The Moon and The Sky 4

2. Soldier of Love 4

3. Morning Bird 4

4. Babyfather 2

5. Long Hard Road 5

6. Be That Easy 2

7. Bring Me Home 4

8. In Another Time 3

9. Skin 2

10. The Safest Place 3

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Doc

Concert - Rebelution, Zion I, Jah Works

2010-02-13T15:32:00.000-08:00

So the Rebelution concert at the 930 Club in Washington DC last night was incredible...hip hop and Reggae, what a fantastic mix. The show started out with the opening acts of Jah Works and Zion I...(We showed up a little late to the show so I can't really say whether Jah Works had a good show or not, so I will not comment on them).

But thank god we weren't too late. We got to the club about 30 minutes before Zion I came on stage and I'm so glad we didn't miss this act. I hadn't really heard of this group before, but I was instantly impressed with their style of hip hop. It's more of a laid back style that has meaningful lyrics and uses alot of sampling. It was refreshing to listen to a hip hop group and actually understand the words that were coming out of their mouths...unlike most hip hop/rap acts that have 30 people up on stage screaming into the mics, this group consisted of 3 musicians (1 rapper, 1 singer, and 1 beat maker). These guys pump the bass too...they made everyone's body vibrate while performing Bird's Eye View. From what I've heard from their albums today, I'd have to say their live shows sound even better than their album. Check these guys out when you get the chance.

By the time Zion I left the stage, you could feel the anticipation for the main act. When Rebelution came on the stage, the crowd burst into a frenzy....jumping around and fist-pumping the air. Their show had a mix of songs from their new album and their previous one. The songs that were most enjoyable had to be Bright Side of Life, Nightcrawler and Safe and Sound...the crowd knew all of the words and it was alot fun to sing and dance along. Their show just reinforced in my mind that Reggae music is one type of music that is hard not like...it's so free-spirited that you could tell everyone was having a great time and leaves you in a great mood. Rebelution definitely rocked the club and I will definitely try and hit up more of their shows when they are in town....overall, great show!

You can find a few pictures from the show at our Facebook page...they aren't the best so I'll have to bring my SLR camera next time. Also, don't forget to friend us and meet up with us at music events throughout the year.

Friday Flashback - Valentine's Day Edition

2010-02-12T05:34:00.000-08:00

Yeeeeaaaa, Valentine's Day is just around the corner (insert sarcasm here)!

Candy, cards, flowers, sex, wine, romantic movies, and ~~strippers and Viagra~~...supposedly that's all you need to create the perfect day.

Why is that we have to dedicate one day to loving someone when everyday should be about loving that certain someone. We go all out on this one day to make that special person feel beautiful and important...but why does it have to stop after that day...there are 364 other days too.

You'd be surprised at how many men and women would rather have that special feeling spread out throughout the year rather than bottled up and splurged in one day. With a designated "day of love", there are no surprises...you just know something nice is bound to happen.

I'll stop preaching to the choir now...and recommend a song that will no doubt put even the stingiest of lovers in the mood...

This artist no doubt knows how to get things going...

She goes by Janet...Ms. Jackson if you're nasty!

-Love Doc

Album Review: Susan Boyle - I Dreamed A Dream

2010-02-11T04:38:00.000-08:00

Artist: Susan Boyle
Album: I Dreamed A Dream
Release Date: November 23, 2009
Website: http://www.susanboylemusic.com/

Official Billbored Review: 4.5/10

Susan Boyle....good for her for making her dreams come true! After being catapulted into the international spotlight and enduring all those public mental breakdowns (thank god she didn't have a Britney moment), Susan has finally come out with an album with the obvious title I Dreamed A Dream. The title of the album should come as no surprise, as it is the song that made an inspirational story on the show Britain's Got Talent. Nobody expected a fortysomething year old Scottish troll to be able to sing as beautifully as she did...and she proved that even the voice of angels can come places that you'd least expect.

But what truly makes people awwww at Susan Boyle?...is it her singing ability...or it the emotional hype that comes from rooting for the underdog...I'd say a little bit of both. Yes, her live performance blew us all away...one of those moments when everyone got all goose-pimply...but if you have high expectations for this album based this performance, you will be thoroughly disappointed as it will resort itself to background music at best.

The album starts out with Wild Horses, an interesting cover of one of my favorite songs by The Rolling Stones. Both version are excellent in their own right, but Susan's version is a little more haunting, especially during the chorus...her high vocals add an eery touch to the song that Mick Jagger could never produce. Replacing the guitars and drums with the piano results in a cover that is very unique and quite possibly the best song on the album.

The cover songs don't stop there...unfortunately this time around it's not as powerful/interesting as the original. SuBo's cover of Madonna's You'll See is mediocre at best...it actually reinforces how good of a singer Madonna actually is. Nice try Susan, but I think I'll stick with the original on this one...you didn't add anything worth value to this song. Her version of Daydream Believer was also disappointing...

The signature song that everyone was looking forward to hearing is I Dreamed A Dream...the song that blasted off her career. Maybe it's that lack of seeing Simon's jaw fall off, or the audience in total shock, during the live performance, but the recorded version seems to lack a certain something....or maybe it's the fact that cheesy production takes away from her voice. The song was still sung beautifully...I just prefer to see her live.

Forget most the other songs on the album...they are not worth your time. I mean how many times do we need to hear Amazing Grace, Silent Night and How Great Though Art...these songs should have been on a totally separate Christmas album.

Overall, this album is rather boring. With all the hype surrounding SuBo, I was expecting something spectacular...but what you get is a bunch of commonplace songs that we've heard a million times before, and a few cover songs that might leave some people confused. Besides Wild Horses, you will probably be utterly bored with this album and probably only listen to it a couple times just to confirm how drab it really is...(insert yawn here)

Track List
1. Wild Horses 8
2. I Dreamed A Dream 7
3. Cry Me A River 3
4. How Great Thou Art 3
5. You'll See 4
6. Daydream Believer 3
7. Up To The Mountain 7
8. Amazing Grace 3
9. Who I Was Born To Be 5
10. Proud 6
11. The End Of The World 3
12. Silent Night 4

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Doc

Album Review: Cage the Elephant - Cage the Elephant

2010-02-04T16:38:00.000-08:00

Artist: Cage the Elephant
Album: Cage the Elephant
Release Date: May 19, 2009
Website: http://www.cagetheelephant.com/

Official Billbored Review: 7.5/10

Cage the Elephant....how can you not be interested in a band with a name like that? Hailing from Bowling Green, KY, Cage the Elephant's self-titled debut album showcases their ability to mix funk, blues, alternative rock and raw vocals...resulting in good old-fashinioned rock'n'roll that I'm sure has something for everyone to enjoy. It's about time a band can along and made me blast my radio again...Cage the Elephant is a first real rock and roll band I've heard in a long time.

One can hear alot of musical influences in their sound...ranging from the White Stripes to the Arctic Monkeys to Nirvana (and do I dare say) even Led Zeppelin. If you listen closely you can pick up different musical elements from each influence, whether it's the way the music sounds, the lyrics are written, or the way the lead singer Matt Schultz delivers his message.

While it doesn't have the most amazing lyrics, their opening song In One Ear definitely shows that CTE knows how to rock out...resulting in a rebelious song about people talking shit to them but it goes in one ear and right out the other. It get things started out right as it leads right into another fast-paced rock song James Brown.

The third song on the album, Ain't No Rest For The Wicked, has been a huge radio success and has even been used as the intro song to the video games Borderlands. This song is my second favorite song, as I love the bluesy feel and the catchy way in which it is sung. The beginning reminds me alot of Elvis' Don't Be Cruel.

My personal favorite has to be Back Against The Wall...I absolutely love the lyrics and the chorus...there is something sinister about it that has got me hooked (makes me wanna burn something). The song starts out on a slower note (kinda reminds me of day-dreaming about an arson-driven adventure in a fairy tale) and then bursts into an all out rock session that keeps me banging my head during the chorus. This song will not disappoint.

Some of the songs on this album that can be considered boring/annoying include Drones In The Valley and Back Stabbin' Betty, as they sound very generic and don't really offer anything unique or exciting. In Back Stabbin' Betty, they unfortunately implement way too many curse words where they are no necessary...in a pathetic attempt to sound more edgy, the song results in fucking child's play!

The album ends with Free Love, a fast-paced "funkfest". Probably the grooviest song on the album...sounds like a modern-day twist on an old rock'n'roll song...what a perfect ending to a great album.

Overall, this album straight up rocks! Highly recommended! I have not been impressed by these so-called rock bands in recent years (yeah that's right...fuck you Doughtry! Am I the only one who thinks every single of his songs sounds the same?). The mixture of rock's roots and very modern feel about it will keep this album in heavy rotation in my collection. I look forward to seeing how they enhance their sound in the future.

P.S. I think this album can be best described with the following lyrics...

"You hear that
You know what's coming
Oh, you better run for the hills
Cuz we're coming to your town
And we're gonna burn that motherfucker down!
Aaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!!!!"
Track List
1. In One Ear 7
2. James Brown 7
3. Ain't No Rest For The Wicked 9
4. Tiny Little Robots 7
5. Lotus 7
6. Back Against The Wall 9
7. Drones In The Valley 4
8. Judas 7
9. Back Stabbin' Betty 4
10. Soil To The Sun 7
11. Free Love 8

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Doc

Album Review: Lady Antebellum - Need You Now

2010-02-02T07:29:00.000-08:00

Artist: Lady Antebellum
Album: Need You Now
Release Date: January 26, 2010
Website: http://www.ladyantebellum.com/

Official Billbored Review: 5/10

"Some might say" (straight out of the Fox News playbook) that country is losing track of its traditional roots...and heading towards a more "poppy" sound...and I have to agree.

But this transition doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing...I believe this new hybrid sound of country and pop benefits country music in general. With this type of sound, country music can appeal to a larger mass of people that never had the intention of listening to country music in the first place. One country group that is trying to bridge the gap between country and pop is Lady Antebellum with their sophomore album Need You Now.

Alot of people looked forward to the release of this album, especially after their first song, Need You Now, hit the airwaves...this song has been a massive hit...well before the album was ever released. Lady A gets things started out right...what's better than a country song about getting wasted and drunk-dialing a former lover for some ass. What's great about this song is that the lyrics speak to everyone...if you have ever loved, lost and drank to escape the pain and/or get some ass, then this song is for you. Hands down, it's the best song on the album and it definitely helped create alot of buzz around this album.

Unfortunately, this is where the album's buzz stops...after 1 song...whomp whomp. Too many Whoa's, Oh Yeah's, Baby's, and other types of bullshit "lyrics" instantly cheapen alot of their other songs. Take the very next song on the album, Our Kind Of Love...what a cheesy song...let's lump a bunch of cliches into on song and say Whoa a bunch of times to add insult to our ears. Who the hell are you trying to convince that your love is something special...this makes my head hurt...baby. One of the worst songs on the album.

There are a few songs that might save this album from becoming a bland, uneventful piece of noise. American Honey is one of those songs...and I wouldn't be surprised if it was this album's next hit. I believe it has the most appeal of any of the songs and I can see this being the "this is my song" song for alot of girls. This song makes you want to recapture all those summertime memories and yearn for a return to days where life seemed so simple. *Note to new fans of country music* I just wanted to let you know that it was absolute genuis of Lady A to put the word "American" into the title of a song...if you couldn't tell, country music fans fiend for that shit. It can be a song about a black, gay, woman, aethiest living in America, and there would be no doubt in my mind it would be the greatest song ever...that's how important it is to add "America" to at least one of your song titles...America, hell yeah! We rule! (typical Americans) *end of public service announcement*

Again, I find this album to be geared towards the women...and there's nothing wrong with that. Another good song is Ready To Love Again, and it focuses on recapturing the strength to search for love again after being so heartbroken in the past. We have all been there...and there is always that pivotal moment when we say fuck it...that past is the past...let's get going again for our next love adventure. (I can't believe I'm about to cry while writing this...what is my problem!) Great song about moving forward...aaaaaaawwwww. (Insert picture of me getting hugged by 1,000 girls right now)

If this album could drum up an advertisement, then here it is..."Ever had a problem with falling asleep? Well as a certified music critic, I am prescribing you with a heavy dose of Hello World. If this shit doesn't make you fall asleep, then you are fucked and I don't feel sorry for you...not my problem. I sleep just fine at night!" This song is best described as a failed attempt at imitation of Bruce Springsteen's Secret Garden...a much crappier version with no soul.

Overall, this is an average album...it will still draw alot of new and old country music listeners because of its unique hybrid genre. But since there are equal number of great songs and shitty songs, it's just an average album. If you like songs with alot of slow songs, then this is the album for you...some of them sad, some of the reminiscent, some of the hopeful...there's a good mix of everything...just slow. But for me, it's all about getting drunk and getting some late night ass!

Track List
1. Need You Now 9
2. Our Kind Of Love 2
3. American Honey 8
4. Hello World 2
5. Perfect Day 3
6. Love This Pain 5
7. When You Got A Good Thing 5
8. Stars Tonight 2
9. If I Knew Then 4
10. Something 'Bout A Woman 4
11. Ready To Love Again 7

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Doc

Friday Flashback - '93 'til...

2010-01-29T06:57:00.000-08:00

The year was 1993....And it was a glorious year for hip hop.

It was a time where songs were much simpler...they didn't require any new "dance" moves every other month...and most importantly, they were relatable.

And like a fine wine, these songs only gets better with time. Year after year they reveal to us why they were so special...so classic!

Classic songs never get old...often times they get better. They make us more appreciative of "how things were back in the day" when compared to the current music mess.

It doesn't matter what year it is...there is one particular songs that will always sound good.

So on this special Friday, I want you all to just chill...cuz this is how we chill from '93 til...

-Doc

Album Review: Timbaland - Shock Value II

2010-01-26T13:54:00.000-08:00

Artist: Timbaland
Album: Shock Value II
Release Date: December 8, 2009
Website: http://www.timbaland.com/

Official Billbored Review: 6/10

Timbaland has always been an intriguing and trail-blazing producer...his beats have always been mind-blowing and his ability to collaborate with different artists from different genres makes me wonder if he truly is a genius...I've never seen a producer take an artist out of his comfort zone and completely redefine them so confidently in a single track like he does.

With Shock Value II, Timbaland expands on his ability to collaborate with various artists (and not necessarily in good way)...this go around he specifically collaborates with pop artists . Timbaland has said it himself that he "isn't focused on producing hip hop albums anymore, and wanted to produce pop albums"...and damnit he wasn't fooling around. I'm guessing this is the only reason this album is "shocking"...he didn't include a single rapper (and no, Drake is not considered a rapper...he's a piece of shit actor...the new JaRule).

Since Timbaland deliberately produced a pop album, it has to be taken with a grain of salt...you will not find any meaningful lyrics throughout his tracks, and at times, it makes you wonder if he's ruining his reputation by collaborating with some of these no talent ass clowns...having some of these pop artists on this album is down right laughable and pathetic (ex: Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus, Chad Kroeger from Nickelback, and Chris Doughtry).

With that being said, this album starts out with a strong Intro (I usually don't even mention the Intro, but damn this beat is amazing). I wish Timbaland would've made a complete song out of this beat...I guarentee it would be an instant hit...it was that sick! Unfortuntately, it just cuts off after approximately a minute and leaves you with an awkward silence as it leads into the album's most corny track, Carry Out. It features golden boy Justin Timberlake...(insert the loud screams of ten 13 year olds here)...and the success of this song is like shooting fish in a barrel. It's basically impossible to go wrong when these two are on the same track...it's generally pure gold and it will be the new cool thing in school because it relates sex to fast food (hehehehe...sex....mmmmm....food). Kids will eat this shit up, but it's not for me...way too greasy from all the cheese. In my opinion, it should've been saved for a Saturday Night Live skit/song.

One of the best songs (mostly because of the instrumentals) on the album has to be the obvious hit Morning After Dark. Adding Nelly Furtado to any of his albums is a no-brainer...the chemistry between them in undeniably infectious and usually results in a great song...this is no exception. You can hear the confidence in Nelly's voice in at the very beginning when she says "Go Timbo!"...you knew the song was going to hit hard and it certainly delivers.

My personal favorite song has to be Timbaland's collaboration with the rock band Jet on the track Timothy Where You Been...it's a surprisingly good (and probably the most overlooked) song on the entire album. The song starts off very slow and pretty uninteresting (which will turn people off immediately...and if I wasn't forced to listen to this song, I probably would've skipped over it too), but at around the 35-second mark the euphoric beat really takes off and makes me glad I didn't overlook this song. It gives you a peak into Timbaland's life and all the work he's accomplished (he name drops like crazy...but he does have the credibility to do so...you have to respect it).

With the huge success of One Republic's song Apologize on Timbaland's previous album Shock Value, it only seemed right to bring them back for an encore...and they did not disappoint. It has an upbeat instrumental that is very radio-ready and it's hard not to like this song. I know some will say that the original version is better, but Timbaland does a great job at bringing out the best in this band and this song.

Now this is the part of the review where I transition to the "bad" parts of the album. But there is something I have to get off my chest. I can't believe I'm going to say this...maybe I am finally going senile...but...We Belong To The Music...featuring...Miley "chain-smoker" Cyrus (oh god, what am I doing?)...is kinda good...for a pop song... It's a very catchy, yet predictable song (lyrically, musically, financially)...there's no guessing as to why Timbaland wanted to collaborate with her...he wanted to make that money and knew she was the ticket to the targeting a very young fan base. Am I crazy for even considering this to be a good song?

And finally to the bad stuff...the tracks that are complete garbage and that barely deserve a mention in this review include:

If We Ever Meet Again (this song is so boring...Katy Perry doesn't have her typical "edginess"...this track can be best described as a drag queen pageant theme song),
Tomorrow In The Bottle (Chad Kroeger = douchebag = song killer)
Say Something (if you actually like this song, you do not know what hip hop is...a history lesson is in store for you my friend)
Long Way Down (how is Doughtry popular...they haven't made one good song...ever...what a waste of life)
The One I Love (Keri Hilson is easily forgettable...)

Overall, it's too bad that Timbaland created an album whose primary objective was to make a shit ton of money off some tweens by collaborating with current "pop stars". Working with so many overrated/untalented artists has taken it's toll on the overall experience of the album...I wish he had worked with more quality artists (I'm sure he has good artists waiting for a phone call from him...right?) I also would've have given him a lot more credit if he launched more unknowns bands/artists into stardom like he did for One Republic. But like I said, there are definitely some songs that you can definitely chill to like Timothy Where You Been, songs that you can dance to like Morning After Dark, and the little guilty pleasures you can enjoy while singing in the shower like We Belong To The Music.

Track List
1. Intro by DJ Felli Fel 8
2. Carry Out (feat. Justin Timberlake) 5
3. Lose Control (feat. JoJo) 5
4. Meet In Tha Middle (feat. Bran' Nu) 6
5. Say Something (feat. Drake) 3
6. Tomorrow In The Bottle (feat. Chad Kroeger & Sebastian) 3
7. We Belong To The Music (feat. Miley Cyrus) 6
8. Morning After Dark (feat. Nelly Furtado & SoShy) 9
9. If We Ever Meet Again (feat. Katy Perry) 2
10. Can You Feel It (feat. Esthero & Sebastian) 7
11. Ease Off The Liquor 3
12. Undertow (feat. The Fray & Esthero) 4
13. Timothy Where You Been (feat. Jet) 9
14. Long Way Down (feat. Doughtry) 2
15. Marchin On (feat. One Republic) 8
16. The One I Love (feat. Keri Hilson & D.O.E.) 3
17. Symphony (feat. Attitude, Bran' Nu & D.O.E.) 3

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Doc

Friday Flashback - Childhood Memories

2010-01-22T08:06:00.000-08:00

We all have specific songs that take us back to a time of pure innocence…

…where all you cared about was playing outside and building forts, or chasing the ice cream man down the street trying to get a Firecracker Popsicle before dinner...

Man, those were the days!

And in those days, we were easily influenced (musically) by the movies and tv shows that we were so obsessed with…I could memorize all the theme songs to my favorite cartoons and movies…these soundtracks were engraved into my musical consciousness whether I liked it or not.

Out of all the music I heard while watching tv/movies, there is one song in particular that sticks out like a sore thumb (probably because I had all the cartoon movies, the action figures, the coloring books, and real life action movies)...

The scene for this song incorporated a dance club on a waterfront pier with some overgrown mutated turtles kicking the fucking shit out of Tokka and Rahzar (and a pathetic group of foot soldiers) on the dance floor while an early ‘90s icon rocked the house with an impromptu hit rap song (somehow coming up with the lyrics on the spot….hahahaha…I love how movies work like that) resulting in the most climatic movie ending in the eye’s of a young boy…I will never forget this song…

And that brings us to today’s Friday Flashback…we knew all the lyrics, we knew all the dance moves, and we all thought we were so damn cool…

I hope you enjoyed a little sneak-peak into my childhood…and I’m pretty damn sure you all liked it just as much as I did. Happy Friday….Go Ninja, Go Ninja, Go!

-Doc

Black Eyed Peas - Imma (not) Be (playing this shitty song)

2010-01-22T04:33:00.000-08:00

Another "hit" song from the Black Eyed Peas has just hit the radio airwaves...fuck! Kill me now! Like alot of their other songs, Imma Be, will be played non-stop for the next 3 months as if it were considered good. I'm here to set shit straight and expose these lazy-ass artists. The BEP song formula is very easy to see...

1) have a beat you can dance to make the girls feel all "crunk and shit"

2) Will.I.Am says the same word(s) about 1,000 times (ex. "I gotta feeling...", "boom boom boom", and now "Imma be")

3) Fergie comes in and pretends to rap and usually sings some high notes...butterface alert!

4) then repeat part 2

5) Will.I.Am pretends to rap by rhyming "be" with "galaxy, sea, tree, me, we..." and the shitty list goes on. You get the point.

6) then repeat part 2

Easy as that!

The Black Eyed Peas are one of the most boring music groups out there right now..everything about them is predictable. Throw me a fucking curveball once in a while...even if it's not the most perfect song...at least make me interested in listening to you.

Well anyway, here is a video I put together for their song Imma Be...maybe you will like it more than I did.

Cheers,
Doc

Album Review: Muse - The Resistance

2010-01-16T12:29:00.001-08:00

Artist: Muse

Album: The Resistance

Release Date: September 15, 2009

Website: http://www.myspace.com/muse

Official Billbored Review: 4/10

Have you ever had someone try so hard to convince you of something that their argument becomes so exaggerated and over-the-top that you just ignore it and remain unconvinced? That is exactly what happens in Muse's latest album The Resistance. Though I found this album to be quite enjoyable musically (you can hear influences of Queen, The Cure, U2)...lyrically, it was a different story. I was disappointed and was left with a bad taste in my mouth because the lyrics felt cheap compared to the quality music.

There is a sense of irony surrounding this entire album which completely cracks me up...here we find Muse "warning" us about mind-control and how we shouldn't get sucked into a brainwashed society, yet tons and tons of people flock to buy this album just because it's Muse (and whatever Muse says/does means "the truth"...fuck you, get over yourselves).

Don't get me wrong...I'm always up for a good conversation about conspiracy theories (9/11, UFOs, Moon Landing), but making a whole album dedicated to conspiracies based on government mind-control and Big Brother seems a little much. What ends up happening is you try too hard to say something meaningful and clever on every track that the message becomes lost and/or watered down. While listening to this album I constantly found myself thinking..."Hey Muse! What makes you so fucking special that you know all this information about the government trying to control us, while the rest of us ignorant pieces of shit are just too dumbed-down to understand/realize what is happening? You think your fucking better than me?"

And if you know the world is so corrupt...then why don't you actually run for office and do something about it, instead of just singing about how you want to stand up and fight (so come on!)

Unwarranted arrogance is an obvious disease on this album...

To start the album off, Muse delivers us with a flaming bag of commercialized shit called Uprising. This song kick things off with their "warning" about our imminent demise...which leads right into the song about the same thing called Resistance. The intro to this song is simply amazing (I thought I was about to go on some epic journey through the subconscious), but then the song gets bitch-slapped by one of the cheesiest choruses I have ever heard...completely ruining the song for me...I'm almost embarrassed for them.

The song Guiding Light was the most ridiculous song on the album...the song might have been good if the lead singer, Matthew Bellamy, didn't sound like he was having trouble taking a shit the entire song (sorry for the graphic images I might have just put in your head)...it definitely made me feel his pain. The song's message gets completely washed out by the whineyness in his voice...it don't mind a little whineyness here and there, but this goes way overboard.

There are definitely some songs that I thoroughly enjoyed listening to...especially Undisclosed Desires (musically, it kind of reminds me of The Cure's Lullaby) and MK Ultra (a little too much synth, but still a good/memorable song). The three-part symphony at the end was also very well done...it reminds me of ending credits to Disney movies (in a good way...like the unforgettable track from The Land Before Time). I almost wish Muse would put out an album dedicated solely to symphonic songs because they do have a lot of talent in that area.

No album can go without that one unexplained/random song, and this album is no exception. United States of Eurasia is definitely this album's head-scratcher song. Take one part Freddy Mercury vocals, add a dash of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody, add a splash of The Bangles Walk Like An Egyptian, and mix with a lovely piano ending from the movie The Pianist...and you get one big ass headache from trying to figure out what the hell just happened. If someone can explain the Egyptian music, please leave me a comment because I am utterly confused...Egypt is neither in Europe nor Asia. Maybe Muse meant to add Arabian music instead, but were soooo brainwashed by corporations and governments that they forgot their geography...you're not so smart now are you, MFer.

Overall, I believe this album deserves a good listen (a couple listens actually because it does grow on you a little), especially because it's not often you can listen to a rock album with symphonic elements to it. Even though I think this band/album are highly overrated, it has high-quality music that it makes it worth your time. All in all, this album is just not good enough and will probably get very little playtime on my iPod in the future.

Track List
1. Uprising 4
2. Resistance 5

3. Undisclosed Desires 6
4. United States of Eurasia (+ Collateral Damage) 4
5. Guiding Light 1
6. Unnatual Selection 2
7. MK Ultra 6

8. I Belong To You (+ Mon Coeur S'Ouvre A Ta Voix) 2
9. Exogenesis: Symphony Part 1 (Overture) 6
10. Exogenesis: Symphony Part 2 (Cross-pollination) 6
11. Exogenesis: Symphony Part 3 (Redemption) 6

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-"Doc"
Billbored Reviews

Friday Flashback...1/15/10

2010-01-14T04:16:00.000-08:00

If hip-hop isn't dead, then where hell did it go? I ask myself this question every day...

The only logical answer I have is that it went underground.

Everything at the surface now should be called "hip-pop"! And it keeps getting worse...it's a disease.

Songs used to be about real life experiences, political consciousness, or beef with another artists...but nowadays it's all about bullshit like champagne-poppin', blinged-out everything, and whips with the rims bigger than a 5 year old (please, stop boring me to fucking death already).

Half these rappers can be best described by 50 Cent in his diss on JaRule (and no, 50 Cent is not that good, but he has his moments)...

"Lil' nigga named Ja think he live like me
Talkin' about he left the hospital took nine like me
You livin' fantasies nigga, I reject your deposit
When your lil' sweet ass gon come out of the closet?"
Now if you don't get the reference (look it up for yourself next time you lazy assholes...and stop being spoonfed by me), 50 was calling out JaRule for being a fake-ass rapper who lies about all his "life experiences" in his songs...basically calling him an industry thug. And that's what we have today...a bunch of bitches who rap about how hard they are...

And that brings us to today's Friday Flashback...a little lesson in hip-hop history...

-"Doc"

BillboredReviews

If you like songs with acoustic guitars...

2010-01-13T19:03:00.000-08:00

Then you will certainly love this song by City and Colour called Comin' Home. Before venturing out and developing a solo album, Canadian singer/songwriter/guitarist Dallas Green used to be in a band called Alexisonfire (btw, I would not recommend listening to Alexisonfire...full of bullshit screamo songs with a very simple model to their songs...guitar solo, screamo guy, sensitive guy (Dallas), more guitar). Dallas definitely has a raw voice (which is pretty damn sexy too if you ask me, no homo) that is very easy on the ears and pulls you right into his songs. I hope you enjoy the song as much as I do...why can't songs like this make it to radio? It blows my mind...

Riddle: How do you know that "City and Colour" is the solo work of Dallas Green?

-"Doc"

BillboredReviews

Album Review: David Nail - I'm About To Come Alive

2010-01-11T13:50:00.000-08:00

Artist: David Nail
Album: I'm About To Come Alive
Release Date: August 19, 2009
Website: http://www.davidnail.com/

Official Billbored Review: 5/10

David Nail is a newcomer to the country scene....and with his freshman album I'm About To Come Alive you can already see the potential of this young singer/songwriter. He is a solid singer...providing clear, soulful/bluesy vocals on every track. Unfortunately, his voice tends to get drowned out by instruments fighting for attention, and you don't get to fully appreciate his singing ability (I blame the producer(s) for the overproduction, those bastard(s)!).

That being said, this is a pretty enjoyable album in general (especially for a newbie/"noob" for all you gamer dorks out there), but nothing spectacular about it (it does have a few drawbacks). This album is essentially a collection of ballads and slow songs...aaaawww! (too bad I don't want to be depressed all the time). Too many of his songs fall into the category of easy-listening country slow songs, which makes it difficult to differentiate between tracks at times. For the love of God, show me some variety and personality! Without any faster-paced standouts, besides "Again" and "Looking For A Good Time" (primarily the chorus, which is really catchy), I predict this album will ultimately be relegated to background music.

The first single “Red Light” has been a recent hit...I like this song primarily because it surprised me in an different way...usually when I think of break up songs I imagine darkness, rainy days, crying, and a lot of pent-up drama. This song plays a trick on the emotions because it's a beautiful, normal Sunday day when this girl dumps him...and life goes on around him like every other day, even "while [his] world's crashing down". Definitely give this song a listen!

Another standout track is "Strangers On A Train"...but I prefer it more when it's sung live. The song seems more emotional and raw in a live version compared album version. Like I said earlier, the over-powering instruments (god damn piano) take away from his solid vocals...btw, the Miranda Lambert touch is a nice addition.

Overall, I think this album is worth a listen, especially because the seeds of a future star have been planted. Too bad his producers are holding him back from superstardom at the moment.

*On a final note...I thought this was country music? Why the hell is there no "drinking" song on album? I am the only one who noticed this discrepancy?

Track List

1. Mississippi 5

2. I'm About To Come Alive 4

3. Red Light 7

4. Again 6

5. Clouds 2

6. Summer Job Days 3

7. Strangers On A Train 8

8. Looking For A Good Time 6

9. This Time Around 4

10. Turning Home 4

11. Missouri 3

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Reviewer #1 aka "Doc"

Billbored Reviews

Album Review: Ke$ha - Animal

2010-01-07T05:59:00.000-08:00

Artist: Ke$ha

Album: Animal

Release Date: January 5, 2010

Website: http://www.keshasparty.com/us/home

Official Billbored Review: 2/10

Living off the few Autotune scraps remaining from 2009, this “artist” makes a complete fool of herself and music in general. One look at her song titles and it pretty much gives away the content of the entire album. The lyrics are so ridiculous and pretentious that the listener cannot even enjoy the pop/dance beats and the melodies, which are certainly not terrible in some cases.

As for judging her singing ability, I’m pretty sure it’s damn near impossible to make an accurate (or even ballpark) decision. Autotune took over this entire album (and did I mention it is FREE!). At least T-Pain and Lil’ Wayne used autotune well to create a very distinct sound for themselves and are considered “groundbreaking” for employing it…This white-trash “drunk” has to scrounge around looking for a few drops of autotune heroine left in a syringe before her last chance to use it runs its course.

As for the songs, the most memorable (and I use this term loosely) tracks include “Tik Tok”, “Take It Off”, “Blah Blah Blah”, and “Your Love Is My Drug”. Don’t get me wrong, they are catchy as hell, but they are just so damn dumb and uncreative...she relies too much on studio-enhanced vocals, name-dropping, and junior high school lyrics. Even though these are her “better” songs, it sounds like she is either trying way too hard to be a badass, or she has a hard time actually believe the words that she’s singing. She pretends to love Jack Daniels whiskey just so she can rhyme "Jack" in her songs...kind of pathetic. On the other end of the spectrum (and it’s a really short spectrum) are the craptastic songs of “Dinosaur” and “Party At A Rich Dude’s House”.

Overall, this album is tiresome and lacks cohesion, as if Ke$ha is unsure of herself at best...(but I guarantee it will get alot of radio play somehow…). Her songs are unfortunately catchy (just catchy enough to make her some money off some tweens), but this is not the type of music that truly means something and thankfully it won’t last. I would not recommend buying this album. I hope that 2010 does not end up like 2009, but it looks like we are already heading down a slippery slope. By the way…I like your beard!

Sidenote: I don’t what’s worse…listening to a no-talent singer that’s Autotuned to death…or acknowledging the fact that this poor girl put a $ in her name. You are 22 years old for god’s sake…grow the hell up and get with the times...it is not cool anymore to use an old AIM screenname as your stage name.

Track List
1. Your Love Is My Drug 4

2. TikTok 3

3. Take It Off 4

4. Kiss N Tell 3

5. Stephen 1

6. Blah Blah Blah 3

7. Hungover 1

8. Party At A Rich Dude's House 2

9. Backstabber 4

10. Blind 2

11. Dinosaur 1

12. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes 1

13. Boots & Boys 1

14. Animal 1

(Listen to all tracks on the "BillboredReviews" youtube channel)

-Reviewer #1 aka "Doc"

Billbored Reviews