Hinder "All American Nightmare"

This record was definitely not an All American Nightmare .On This record there have been comparisons to Kid Rock and Puddle of Mudd, but I see something different, a band that seemed like it had an influence at least on the first two opening tracks, and several others after; that band is Saliva. Known for their blend of southern-rap-metal and their ability to create not only raucous anthems like click click boom (which is their most well known hit), but also their ability to create memorable melodic tunes that are perfect for when you rest in pieces. They do have a lot of other great songs and their most consistent records are Survival of the Sickest and their latest (look it up if you're interested). Anyways, there may be '2 Sides of Me,' bu there are also two sides to most bands too, because if they made the same kind of music it would be bad. If you know Saliva, than comparisons to them for the first two songs are not far-fetched. They sound like songs they would write in terms of attitude,progressions,beat and lyrics; basically everything.Let me just say that if Winkler wanted to rap the lyrics the groove paves the way to. I would have to say that this song is not really an all american dream,but it's not an 'All American Nightmare' either. So I made a comparison to a band you may not like, or agree with 'What Ya Gonna Do?' This song is one of those songs contemplating the future, and also worrying about things not working out. If you have been doing something for so long  and you don't believe you can do anything else doesn't that smell for you? In this song we take a drive, but the audio scenery is filled with more attitude, southern-fried bluesy strums, party gang vocals. Ready? Well 'Hey Ho' Lets Go!!! I guess this next track is their current single, and thinking about it if you have ever kissed someone with the lips of an angel than this song may be part of 'The Life' you want to live. I guess the next song makes an analogy between 'Waking Up The Devil' and the beast that runs free as they play in the sheets with very prominent beats(hip-hop?), guitar work that remind me of A7X to some extent; just all in general sounds like a song that they may write, or use as a b-side. To see your significant other pack their things is one thing, but to see the 'Red Tail Lights' shrink as the car disappears in the horizon just drives the realization home..oops. I must say that this record has been a bit of a 'Striptease' because they have stripped the weakest elements found on their first two records that made it easier to pigeonhole them with all the other bands hot at the time in the post-grunge/modern rock such as Saving Abel, Buckcherry, Nickelback, 3 Doors Down, Puddle of Mudd, etc. They still have some of those elements, but the way they present them seems fresher, and not as bland on this record, and create their most consistent and cohesive record yet!! Yes, this track is definitely sleazy, and sounds derivative, but has something else that makes it tolerable; I say the groove and the prominent beat synergy, oh, and the solo.What about the harmonies, that recall early Aerosmith? I think that their choice for the third single would only be dissapointing if that was their last single because there are several more songs single-worthy, and if everybody scoffs at my recommendation for this next track as a single well 'Everybody's Wrong' which is a song about deceit and the girl it's about is the liar, not the saint. It's depressing that the last track..Hey, you know Hinder, right? "Who?" The band that had songs Lips of an Angel, Get Stoned,Up All Night, and Without You? Well, they released a third record, and it's their best, but the last track is not one that would coax you to 'Put That Record On.' It was fun while it lasted. The only track that I have a problem with was the final track.

Trapt "No Apologies"

They have never apologized for the music they have set out to make and have kept  a similiar style. Maybe because they were trapt in that style, but have been getting better at their craft while at the same time trying different things as well. The self-titled debut was filled with a blend of modern rock and nu-metal that we have heard before, which would probably satiate the fans of P Roach and the (in)Famous Nickelback looking for music that is new, yet sounds similiar to music they have come to love. It included the anthem for the headstrong, in this still frame where we hear an echo. The latter would be my favorite of those singles, and the game they spoke of was not really an enigma, but helped make the album more interesting.  Then what the singles or the stories people spread would have you believe. The next record had "Someone In Control,' and they had made sure that the album was really consistent and far from a flop. The album was very consistent and I had a lot to like even if the sound was radio-ready and mainstream, but the songs were strong: such as the opening track, that had me waiting for more to follow whether I felt disconnected or not. Another one of my favorite tracks had some attitude and a punky sound that was more than just skin deep, metaphorically speaking. I was not a victim of being blindsided or falling for the weighty chorus in the song, but my influence was its honesty and that track's anthemic, yet lightweight sound; not held down by its self importance. The rest of the album was good too, but these were my favorites and most memorable. The third record asked who's going with you tonight which was a very catchy single that was not so caught up in the angst. It followed the very anthemic and bouncy opener which amidst the musical wasteland that is the majority of modern rock/nu-metal there are many a black rose without thorns. The record included three songs that were addictive even though they didn't change much in sound, but the little things they did to cover up this fact reminded that curiosity kills in some situations, and maybe it's not a good idea to follow that unbelievably gorgeous vixen wherever she goes. I did like the reggae-tinged song that really does help you forget about the rain. So in this record we can safely say that they have borrowed their "Sound Off" their last few records while refining it. The opener starts off with an great groove and rythym that leads to a pretty catchy chorus and a nice backing riff with a mean yet leaner attitude?(not so much angst) The next song's chorus is the best part, and the rest of the song sort of makes Chris Brown (not that one) sound like a 'Drama  Queen,' but not nearly as much as his girl. I must be at the 'End of my Rope' to describe their I feel the need to 'Get Up' off the ground when I hear the rhythm section on this track, as well and I'm not ashamed to say this song reminds me of one by Pillar, but is more polished and hooky. The song's lyrics are inspirational, as inspirational as they can be, and like a Pheonix rising from the ashes, instead of waiting for someone to help; because it deals with self-doubt from people who are more than capable, but don't believe. I  have 'No Apologies' for saying that you make me sick, or that the title track may be one of the best songs instrumentally. Ever feel like a "Stranger in the Mirror?"  There have been times where I have an out-of-body experience, and i fee like someone else looking at me through the mirror. Many of us struggle with the mirror; either by truth it reminds us of, or lies it helps us believe. The lyrics are very relatable, especially the opening stanza, but no matter how far you run, you cannot escape the trials the mirror creates. Even though there is no song that sticks out like a sore thumb, this next track is a "Beautiful Scar" that you cannot ignore; it's lightweight in sound (no overbearing angst!), bouncy, punky, and perfect to dance or bob your head to. "Are You With Me?" Will you stay with me until the end? didn't think so, but this song is about the trials and tribulations that often attack a relationship, standing together through thick and thin, or it could be the invitation into a relationship unknown by putting one's heart on the line(and confessing one's love to another can be hard as f*** to be Frank, or Jerry). "I want it all/But most of all I want you" is the stinging confessional before going into the chorus one last time. The last album had a song concerning metaphorical and literal weather, and now this song . It has a similiar message, but a more pliable  rock based rhythm that not even "The Wind" can blow over. Maybe I'm just "Overloaded" with all of this music I listen to, and therefore have nothing to say; remember that silence can  sometimes speak higher decibels. It's not that I am speechless because I'm amazed, it is because I am speechless.So this final song has this death-metal dirge to complement the nu-metal sheen, but i really didn't like it. The lyrics make you wonder: Am I telling the truth or am I just a 'Storyteller.'  Sound Off, Get Up, No Apologies, Beautiful Scar, and The Wind.

The Muppets Soundtrack

The gang's all here and what better way to start it off with the catchy, comical intro that is 'The Muppet Show Theme.' The next track says it all in these few words "Muppet Studios, I Can't Believe it!" The first proper track I guess says that "Life's a Happy Song" which is a really uplifting, heartwarming; it includes a horn and piano-bop style with those sweeping strings. 'I Haven't Seen the Old Gang' either Kermie, but I'm sure Jason Segel would like to. I see "Pictures in my Head," and the score is a sorrowful and sentimental piano led track sung by our favorite frog from muppetland, and features our favorite funny bear, whatever you call it blue guy, and our favorite octogenarian duo who all join to sing in the final minute. There is this short drum roll, which is subtle, but a nice touch. Hey Kermit! How do you get anywhere? "We Drive." Oh, I thought muppets couldn't get licenses. Paul Simon, who is a master of songs that can be sentimental and witty at the same time, tongue in cheek but never in the butt, in an upbeat fun strumming style, sings about "Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard," but the funny thing is I don't know anyone by that name. Hmmm. What does R-E-N-O do? "That Spells Reno." Another short yet comical song led by Mr. Fozzy Bear and some banjo; singing about their hotel room, and other stuff in LasVegas? Oh wait, casinos are everywhere, but what about wedding chapels where no marriage certificate is needed? "Welcome Back" every buddy!! "We Built This City" is an old hair-metal throwback with a catchy hook and some bass upfront, the acoustics sound as if it's on stage, or should I say a starship? The disco like sound of "Me Party" segues pretty nice into the silly, narcissistic, slightly over the top theatrical funk rap of Nathan Pacheco ( as Tex Richman?) on "Let's Talk About Me," which book-ends "The Answer is No." We must ask "Are You A Man or Muppet?" and Jason Segel struggles with this question that features some of our friends in a piano and string number. "Down At The Ole Barbershop" is 7 seconds of Kermit and Ms. Piggy that leads into a song that "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by the Muppet's Barbershop quartet. At first listen I didn't realize what it was, It's definitely not the same, nor either is it boring. In this double-whammy we see another cover, but this time by Camilla and the Chickens who just tell that poultergeist "Forget You!" in a similiar style; despite it's novelty status it is no less entertaining. Enough with the jokes "It's Time For Our Song" as we ride "The Rainbow Connection" with a good deal of our muppet friends, and is Animal on drums because some of the parts sound out of place at the end. Hey you! Yeah you! "Get Out There and Help Those Guys!" I'm talking to "The Whistling Caruso" or Andrew Bird. Oh, "How Charming, A Finale" which is a redux of the first full-length track on the soundtrack with finale at the end. "Mary, Marry Me" even the cutesy song I had heard somewhere before performed by a group of the same phonetic yet spelled differently Mahna Mahna.

Bruno Mars "Doo-Wops and Hooligans"

He starts with an explosion of pop perfection that is as dangerous as a "Grenade." A story of the type of relationship that most anyone can relate to, and a sister to the piano sound that proclaimed Hip Hop Saved My Life. "Our First Time" that we heard of Mr. Mars was when he told a special girl that "All the other girls have Nothin' on You" with B.O.B. This time, he sounds like JT with a slow jam (reggae-lite edition). When the song starts and during the middle, he almost sounds like Weezy; just in his delivery, and the music in the background. "Runaway Baby" just spewed on me its awesomeness with its punky attitude, and a mixture of soul, funk, and rock. I love this line: "So many eager young bunnies/That I'd like to pursue/Now even now they eating out the palm of my hand/ There's only one carrot and they all gotta share it."                                                                               He must be tired, because "The Lazy Song" has the perfect amount of complexity and the lyrics at times are hilarious: "I'm gonna kick my feet up/Then stare at the fan/Turn the TV on, throw my hand in my pants/Nobody's gonna tell me I can't"; he also mentions having nice sex. I mean what the flip?? The radios didn't even start censoring that part until they have played it for a while). The instrumentals make for a breezy summer hit; probably for anytime you're feeling lazy, I guess. Bassline: "We're looking for something dumb to do /Hey baby/I think I wanna marry you" Drums: "That doesn't mean you get to bang me right away just because we're married." Wedding bells are the hook throughout the song in a quicker pace; it's a nice cute diddy to listen to when you're looking for something dumb to do, but baby why would I say it's stupid when I think I wanna "Marry You."      To be alone, and have no one talk to at the time when most everyone is asleep has got me "Talking to the Moon" which is a more depressing song, but is still sonically appealing.  I can almost see this performed on Broadway, and the subtle cosmic intervention of keys is the perfect touch.               This is a rasta-rocker, featuring the son of world-renowned reggae artist Bob Marley. "He was more than just a reggae artist." A heckuva lot more, but yeah, Damian Marley is in this track, and has set his own path for himself with music that can stand on its own regardless of his relation. This song gives me a shot of "Liquor Store Blues," but I don't drink, so I guess I'm feeling on top. You can "Count on Me" to be a pain; to be annoying and slightly confusing in general, or in what I write; to care for others and be interested in how they're doing, and to do what I can to help. This song has some light strings, hand drums, and more lovely harmonies, along with that powerful sentiment.I wonder if Israel "IZ" Kaʻanoʻi Kamakawiwoʻole was somewhere over the rainbow watching this song be pieced together.                                                                                                                            What do you get when you have a man from mars, Cee-Lo Green, B.O.B., cosmic keys,  technobeat ending, and a doo-wop/funk/soul mutt? A song from "The Other Side." If I was in the mood for listening to doo-wops and chillin' with some hooligans I recommend playing these tracks: Grenade, Runaway Baby, The Lazy Song, Count on Me, Liquor Store Blues, and The Other Side. However, all of the other songs are worth checking out as well, if they weren't heard by your ears yet.

New Boyz "Too Cool To Care"

Can we just say that these New Boyz on the scene are too cool to care what you think of their music, they will make their music how they want it and write it in their way, regardless of your opinion, or mine. If you like it, awesome! If you don't then, these "Tough Kids" might go bring some of their friends, and they have plenty of features on this record (crud!) and smash your car in! The record starts with an addictive track infused with a Beastie Boy style attitude and rock swagger...I said it! oh Sh-_! "I'm a tough kid proven my actions are foolish/I spit dumb bars like boy that's stupid/What is he ruthless have a brain use it/Havin' an illusion I'ma go how you get"a girl to "Crush on You" which has a very addictive beat and a whitlingsqueak in the back. May I say that in terms of sound Legacy sounds a little Weezy...oh ish!!!! I did that? Listen to their voices, you cannot deny that they sound similiar..right? There is more attitude in this and the next few. Tyga drops some bars with his fellow "Active Kingz," and do they they have to speak of their family jewels? BJs? Really? I understand hormones, but I don't wanna hear other guys bragging about their D's; otherwise the song is pretty good. Hey guess what haters! This next song is for you, because it addresses your prescience, and seriously "I Don't Care" what you think of my writing style! I know it's definitely not the greatest, but it is mine.I really like the instrumentals in this track I can say, but Big Sean also joins in the competition for bragging rights, and we don't wanna hear a simile of a telescope and a schlong. They mention Suge Night too, basically. "My old girl got nothin on my new chick" because the last one's gone too far, and my new one does it like a "Porn Star." We will not get into lyric content of some of this song, but it's basically about how the new girl is better . An Ode to the "Magazine Girl" is one that is more focused on that chorus and those keys, but there is no problem with that because the sound could be a song to kick it in the "Back Seat" to! The latter features Dev and the Cataracts, which is a song that may take a few listens to like it, but once you do then it'll get stuck in your head. A prime choice for a single, and the sound is suggestive, but not completely explicit. However, I do like this line "Oh you a good girl it's cool I play pretend too/I heard you had a baby/You want a New Boy in you" One of my favorite songs might let you "Meet My Mom." This song is very melodic, chorus heavy, and just could be classified as an updated doo-wop/rock style song? I think I'm running out of gas, or my brain is running out of words to say, could you please "Start Me Up?" This song is a muted dance track, and I am not saying it is bad, but I am saying that the energy is lacking, and it might not be one to have people go crazy on the dance floor.Why are you mad, it was just constructive criticism. With a song title like that you would hope it gets you pumped up, but now that I think about it, it actually starts the energy, and once the next track comes on..people are ready to groove on the dance floor. I mean honey you look so gorgeous, but please don't slap me when I say that you look "Better With The Light Off." This is one of my favorite tracks on here because it has got me hooked, and the autotune and the fact that C Breezy is present on here doesn't hurt. After a hit such as the previous and this track they might still have some cash flow after they "Break My Bank." Wait a second, you would rather go through your bank. I don't have that much cash! You're the ones making hits! Please let me keep my cash! I work hard for my money ! Iyaz? Yes, please go through his instead if you don't have enough cash then. "Zonin" is basically about ignoring his girl when she is throwing a fit, or talking about gossip he cares little for and "I shut her up by the compliments, that's really the only way I can top the fits" like I can say that I think of Timbaland for some reason when I hear this song. This song won't "Let U Leave,"  the keys are so marvelous, and the song is about a one night stand and a girl that for four months was that girl that he wishes would never leave. "Can't Nobody," even Shanell,  ."..love you better than me." Do I really believe that? I think that I can be pretty loving, but since I haven't really been in one I can't be sure , I don't like to boast because that is laaaaaaaaaame. The song is basically about how this new lover cannot compare, or even compete when it comes to devotion and loving them. I don't think they meant when it comes to the act of you know what, because that would be saucy, However, they did mention they were saucy in the song about a porn star. That would be cheesy, but basing it on earlier tracks they would have just said it in the lyrics, which would ruin its sentiment.This song wears a "Black Dress" which also focuses on the singing without focusing on verses, and the melody is really good. I can see this as a single, but it wouldn't have the same effect because it doesn't have the attitude, and it seems like they're on auto-pilot because it has none of their lively verses. If they want to release a real beautiful single that would be a great followup to their current (and one of my favs!!!). I suggest they bring this "Beautiful Dancer" out to the radio airwaves, because it has these vocals with a lot of buttered soul on  that awesome R&B roll, and it is also very hooky sentimental sounding track; even when part of the refrain is "bounce it up and down." So if I had to choose my favorites, not that they care, but they are : Tough Kids, I Don't Care, Magazine Girl, Back Seat, Meet My Mom, Better With The Lights Off, Break My Bank, Zonin, Let U Leave, and Beautiful Dancer.