Spectre Sound & Audio

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My Top Albums of 2015

I cannot say that 2015 has blown me out of the water so I have settled for a top three this year with some honourable mentions.

I have had to put up with listening to the overhyped, whiney, generic dribble of Sam Smith and Adele everywhere I go and although I like Ed Sheeran, I feel that his album ‘X’; especially the songs “sing” and “Thinking Out Loud” have been forced upon me far too much.

Here is the the albums that managed to grab my attention this year. I will say that I have spent the majority of the year listening back in time with the likes of Pearl Jam, Schoolboy Q, P.O.D. and Fleetwood Mac.

1. Kendrick Lamar - To Pimp a Butterfly

By God did this album tear the music scene wide open. Wait!... Is Kendrick rapping over soft jazz? And there was me thinking he could not top ‘good kid, m.A.A.d city’. I remember the first time I heard “King Kunta” I was instantly drawn in. This album has incredible style and production. If you have not listened to this record yet, what the hell are you waiting for?!

2. Gary Clark Jr. - The Story Of Sonny Boy Slim

I have to thank Dave Grohl for showing me the beautiful sound of Gary Clark Jr. on his documentary series Sonic Highways. I love blues and that may well be the reason I have such a soft spot for the Black Keys. This album belongs in that same area of my heart. A raw modern blues sound that oozes with soul and a brash style. This record has great pace and and is sonically pleasing.

3. Chris Cornell - Higher Truth

I randomly come across the track “Nearly Forgot My Broken Heart” late one night on Youtube and I was taken on a familiar and comfortable ride on the Chris Cornell Express. The album has a nice acoustic sound with fantastic production and as always, sublime vocals and lyrics.

Honorable Mentions:

Wale - The Album About Nothing 

Lupe Fiasco - Tetsuo & Youth 

Blur - The Magic Whip, 

Black Knights - The Almighty

A$AP Rocky - At. Long. Last. A$AP

P.O.D. - The Awakening

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Some of My Favourite Covers of All Time!

Top Link: Cover       Bottom Link: Original

Alien Ant Farm - Smooth Criminal

(Originally Performed by Michael Jackson).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDl9ZMfj6aE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7cy-3f3sc8

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Higher Ground

(Originally Performed by Stevie Wonder).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdOLFtk9joI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X00XdLhFLSg

Johnny Cash - Hurt

(Originally Performed by Nine Inch Nails).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aF9AJm0RFc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66GHz-H4k6M

Skindred - Electric Avenue

(Originally Performed by Eddy Grant).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1cL5J9bW2U

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtPk5IUbdH0

John Frusciante - How Deep Is Your Love (Live)

(Originally Performed by BeeGees).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tKQWvNZT0k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpqqjU7u5Yc

Nirvana - The Man Who Sold The World (Live MTV Unplugged)

(Originally Performed by David Bowie).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fregObNcHC8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSH–SJKVQQ

Florence + The Machine - You Got The Love

(Originally Performed by Candi Staton).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQZhN65vq9E

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFgbtb_qozM

Foo Fighters - Band On The Run

(Originally Performed by Paul McCartney & Wings).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrfQ6HL4k2I

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7D65IomNYY

Fozzy - Live Wire

(Originally Performed by Mötley Crüe).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USG79BIpPCg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tb95jqsYTm0

Gary Jules - Mad World

(Originally Performed by Tears For Fears).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4N3N1MlvVc4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFsHSHE-iJQ

Killswitch Engage - Holy Diver

(Originally Performed by Dio).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NR7dG_m3MsI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkysjcs5vFU

Limp Bizkit - Faith

(Originally Performed by George Michael).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-EdCNjumvI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Cs3Pvmmv0E

Muse - Feeling Good

(Originally Performed by Nina Simone).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmwRQqJsegw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfJRX-8SXOs

Phil Collins - You Can’t Hurry Love

(Originally Performed by The Supremes).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sttWmXkYkd8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQ7uXX9K7Sk

Rage Against The Machine - Microphone Fiend

(Originally Performed by Eric B. & Rakim).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOwutDkZeUo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPfIIn5V_LQ

Mark Ronson Feat. Daniel Merriweather - Stop Me

(Originally Performed by The Smiths).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=878ixmkVWcE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SckD99B51IA

[spectresoundandaudio]

What's New Wednesday: Foo Fighters - Sonic Highways

I don't want to rant about music every week I find it quite dull, therefore I am going to substitute some Wednesday's to talking about "What's New".

Monday was the launch of Foo Fighters eighth studio album titled "Sonic Highways". I am yet to watch the documentary series of the same name so I am in no way influenced by that in my initial opinion on the album. 

As a huge Foo Fighters fan (and who isn't) I feel a little bit let down by this album. Maybe it is just me being naive, but I was expecting a hard punching rock album much like their previous records. I get a similar listening experience to listening to disk two of "In Your Honor". Generally the album has a slower, softer sound and is an album to be listened to as opposed to jumping up and down to.

Lyrically I find it a bid dull though the sonic listening experience is overall a pleasant one. The end track titled "I Am a River" is great and one I would love to experience live. 

Overall it is a great album and one I may appreciate more with each listen or after watching the accompanying documentary series. As I said before, I am likely disliking it initially based on the reason that it is quite different from their previous records. 

[spectresoundandaudio]

Taboo Tuesday: Gwen Stefani

From No Doubt to her solo career I have always enjoyed all things Stefani. No Doubt started five years before I even existed and they have had a big influence on Punk, Pop-Punk, Ska and Rock music. 

They are a band that really stand on their own and it was only inevitable that Gwen would have a successful solo career at some stage. Love. Angel. Music. Baby. was a massive album and although she never had a solo number one album in the states she conquered the charts with her ever catchy singles.

Here's to Gwen Stefani, I am looking forward to the new No Doubt record.

[spectresoundandaudio]

Mondays Musings: Are we better off without Detox?

I has been over three years since we started anticipating the release of Dr. Dre's third studio album title Detox. The question I am asking here is whether or not it really makes a difference if we get to hear it? 

Don't get me wrong, I am huge fan of Dre and he is undoubtedly one of the best producers to ever grace the genre though I believe his time has passed. I remember when I first listened to the track Kush with Snoop Dogg I remember feeling no response, it seemed like he is beating the horse that is 2001 and rapping with a sound similar to The Game. It is easily a song that I can ignore. 

Following that we got I Need a Doctor featuring Eminem and Skylar Grey. Why would it not feature Skylar Grey? She is Alex Da Kid's go to singer for his copy and paste production, honestly this beat sounds so similar to that of "Love the Way You Lie". That compressed drum sound he slaps on everything. My favourite Skylar Grey vocal comes from back on Fort Minor's track "Where'd You Go?". The track seems more like Eminem featuring Dr. Dre however it is a great solid track with a really catchy hook.

Looking at where Hip Hop is now I feel it can go one of two ways, it can keep the flame alive like Eminem has managed to do with his last two records or it can fade away into the background. Does he even care any more having made millions off of his entrepreneurial ventures? I would love for him to prove me wrong I really would but hey, only time will tell.

[spectresoundandaudio]

Thank Frank It's Friday: Busta Rhymes

I would have uploaded the official music video however the only one I could find was a clean edit and nobody wants to hear that! 

It is impossible for me to not bang my head to this track. One of my all time favourite beats and I could never bore of Busta Rhymes' insane flow. This is one of those tracks that allows me to instantly zone out.

ELE 2 is meant to be released this year and I hope for it to be a banger as the track Thank You blew my mind.

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Throwback Thursday: Dee-Lite - Groove Is In The Heart

"How do you say De-Groovy?"

One of those tracks that was released before I was born but I tell you, I could never get enough of this groovy banger! The samples in this song are phenomenal and the overall sound is one that is welcome at any party.

I am a big fan of Q-Tip so his presence on this track makes it that little bit more special. That's all I really have to say, it's Thursday and this track is amazing.

[spectresoundandaudio]

WTF Wednesday: Jamiroquai

Back on it! Sorry I have been absent but Destiny seems to have consumed my life. I realise I have been slacking and I am picking up the pace starting now.

Today I have a topic that I am truly  passionate about, the fact that Jamiroquai has only ever had one number one record in the UK. This is  band like no other, how many Funk/Acid Jazz bands can you name?

In true funk their tracks tend to have some of the grooviest bass riffs and trippy music videos. Deeper Underground is the only UK number one single that the band achieved. Hits such as Virtual Insanity and Cosmic Girl reaching numbers 3 and 6 respectively. 

Do you consider Jamiroquai to be an underrated or unappreciated band? Check out the video above for Virtual Insanity and let me know what you think.

Also their Greatest Hits album makes for an awesome driving soundtrack.

[spectresoundandaudio]

Taboo Tuesday: Nickelback

I have never really understood the hatred some people have for this band. They are a fantastic rock band and to me it does not even feel taboo. 

I remember back in the day when How You Remind Me hit the music scene and I was all like "Oh shit!". Unfortunately it seemed to become one of those songs that got stupidly popular and played to death. Much like the majority of Green Day's, American Idiot, which is a damn shame.

This band has managed to keep rolling out great albums ever since and continue to maintain a tramendous sound that allows us to rock out for the greater good. So there I like Nickelback and it is perfectly ok for you to like them too.  

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Monday's Musings: I Miss Nu-Metal

Back in my day we had an influx of awesome music that gave you a great sense of relief. Yes I just said back in my day and yes I know I am only 24 but you need to understand that Nu-Metal had too short of a life.

Linkin Park, Limp Bizkit, Deftones, System Of A Down, Saliva, Slipknot, I could go on.

These bands helped to pioneer this genre and what a genre it is/was. 

The type of music that allows you to escape and just say "Fuck It!". I remember the first time I ever heard Break Stuff by Limp Bizkit. Something just come over me, I instantly connected with Fred Durst and his message. The bass resonated through me and I just wanted to tear shit up, that is a feeling like no other.

Some of us don't need the Black Eyed Peas to let our hair down and party, some of want to get sweaty, jump up and down and not give two shits about all the bad in our lives.

Is there a somewhat dead genre you miss?

[spectresoundandaudio]

Throwback Thursday: Muse 

I have always had mad respect for this once local band and they are one of the bands that I enjoy revisiting time after time.

From the get go their debut album "Showbiz" is one that stood on its own as a sonically unique experience that could touch the masses. An album with great instrumentation, a unique take on the current rock scene and a falsetto vocal from Matt Bellamy that puts shivers down your spine and goosebumps on your arms.

Chris Wolstenholme is one of my all-time favourite bassists and for good reason too, with expressive rhythms and a big stand out sound that works on its own (just listen to the embedded track) I often find myself listening to this guy for inspiration. 

If you have not ventured into the world of Muse yet, what are you waiting for? Do it, Do it now!

[spectresoundandaudio]

WTF Wednesday: No Platinum Album This Year?

I know the internet/piracy is killing the music industry blah blah blah but not a single album has yet gone platinum in 2014?

The only platinum certified album so far is a soundtrack. No not that awesome soundtrack to Guardians of the Galaxy, I am talking about that ridiculously annoying Disney film Frozen. 

There is still albums to come from some rather big artists such as Eminem, Taylor Swift, Nicki Minaj *sigh* and Lil Wayne *shudders*. I really hope that at least one artist can keep this certification alive as it would be a very dark time for the music industry otherwise.

Platinum-certification was introduced by the RIAA in 1976. This means it would be the first time in 42 years that a platinum certification has not been awarded. I hold all my faith in Eminem and Taylor Swift as they are two albums I am really looking forward to. No pressure guys...

[spectresoundandaudio]

Taboo Tuesday: Taylor Swift

Week 2 of Taboo Tuesday people! Are you as excited as I am? No? Really? What do you mean I am a dork? It's fine, I will just shake it off. Yeaaaah!

After that terrible pun, the embedded video and the title of the post, you should finally realise that today my guilty pleasure is Taylor Swift. Now I have many reasons for liking this extremely talented woman. Even if it is not cool for a 23 year old guy to dig the Swift, I am sure most of you do!

What I admire most about this fine lady is how she is able to stay true in who she is, she remains a positive role model (she has not done a Miley Cyrus/sold out yet) and I hope she remains that way. 

Her last album RED is one that I thoroughly enjoyed and one I like to listen to when in the car or relaxing. With a great blend of Country, Pop and R&B, she manages to stick to her roots and churn out the hits. Her new track Shake It Off is one that everyone will be dancing to in the private of their own homes (myself included). 

I cannot wait to see what this beautiful, talented chart smasher brings with her new album 1989. 

[spectresoundandaudio]

Monday's Musings: New Gorillaz Album! 

I read yesterday that Damon Albarn is set to release a new Gorillaz album in 2016. It was also stated that he has recorded new material with The Good, The Bad and The Queen. 

Now if you have been following my blog since its early days you will already know that I am a huge fan of anything Damon Albarn. I burst with joy when they announced Plastic Beach and I done the same when I read this same article yesterday. 

Gorillaz bring an electronic vibe like none other, drawing influences from traditional rock, hip-hop, electronica you name it, it is in there! I hope that they continue to bush boundaries with their next record and release another masterpiece. 

As far as The Good, The Bad and The Queen, I am also very excited. Their first self titled album is one that was in my opinion very overlooked. This super group created a sonically great album and for the past seven years I have been wanting more. I hope that Danger Mouse returns to produce it as he has done a fantastic job with The Black Keys, who are also tipped to be recording a new album already. So much win!

To read the original article click the following link: http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/6289125/damon-albarn-says-new-gorillaz-the-good-the-bad-the-queen-albums-on-the-way

Come back tomorrow to read about this weeks guilty pleasure.

[spectresoundandaudio]

Thank Frank it’s Friday! - Calvin Harris

Yes it is Friday and that means two things. 1. I managed to complete my first week of writing this blog, and 2. Unlike myself you guys have finished work for the week and looking to either let loose, party, relax, sacrificing a goat to your elder gods or whatever it is that you like to do to unwind after a hard weeks work.

For my first week of “Thank Frank it’s Friday" I am going to talk about the one guy that should be on all of your Friday night party playlists. That’s right I am talking about one of the hottest DJ’s in the world right now, Calvin Harris.

Moving on from his first two albums he took a step back in his production and focused all of his efforts into churning out hit after hit featuring some of your favourite artists such as Florence Welch, Rihanna, Kelis, Tinie Tempah, Ne-Yo and more. The album "18 Months" is one of my favourite feel good albums with the track "Mansion" being a personal favourite. That squelching 303 gets me every time!

I had the opportunity to see him headline Friday night at the Isle of White Festival in June and it was a set I will never forget, from that moment on I knew that Calvin Harris could get any Friday night started with a bang.

Be sure to check out his new album "Motion" on November 3rd/4th.

[spectresoundandaudio]

Throwback Thursday: Pearl Jam Now I still cannot believe that this record was released was released a month after I was born. The production of this debut album was years ahead of itself and one you would expect from a seasoned band. This album means a lot to me as a music fan as I am sure it does others.

[spectresoundandaudio]

WTF Wednesday: Drake (Late Post)

Sorry for the late post but after I thought I posted yesterday it would turn out it didn't so here I am re-writing my post.

Today's WTF Wednesday rant will be a fairly short one on the topic of the Rapper/Singer? Drake. Now I am not a very big Young/Cash Money fan and it is no secret but I could never really understand this artist.

Drake is generally deemed a rapper though I seem to mostly hear him singing boring hooks or trying to hold a key in what sounds like more of an R&B track. I did like the track Forever when it dropped, but then my favourite verses where Kanye & Eminem. Drake still sings on that hook!

I cannot argue with the guys success, millions of albums sold and multiple awards. He managed to achieve all this with two caterpillars stuck to his forehead. I feel there are more talented rapper such as J. Cole and Childish Gambino 

who deserve at least some of the success Drake has received and more deservedly so.