Posts Tagged ‘Headbanging’

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

I recently interviewed the insanely infectious POWERLIFTER (an up & coming 8-bit band from Wichita, Kansas). Check out the highlights below.

ROB BRAYL: What’s the deal with the name, Powerlifter? Do tell.

MARTIN SWIGGART for Powerlifter: We decided to name the band POWERLIFTER because Matthew’s (vocalist) dad used to be a powerlifter when he was younger. We thought it was a pretty triumphant name for a band.

RB: Many elements are used to make up music, but not everyone would agree a Gameboy is one of them. How did the idea of using the Gameboy in your music develop?

MS: I used to have my own band (Martendo) about three years ago in which I made 8-bit sounds in a computer program. One night Matthew and I were drinking and hanging out and I showed the songs to him. He fell in love and told me about how there are people who use old computer systems and gaming devices to make music. I instantly researched and figured out how to use the Gameboy.

RB: There’s several crotch shots in your music video for Buffalo. Alcohol and crazy dancing, too. Clearly the point of the video is pure fun, eh?

MS: [Laughs] Pretty much. We do love to party and have fun. When we were talking about video ideas I told them I wanted a party video like in those late ’90s teen high school movies. The parties you always wanted to go to because it looked so fun. I think in the end we did a pretty good job at achieving that.

RB: The video and the sound coming from Powerlifter is so Brooklyn. Any New York shows in the future? Tour?

MS: Oh really? Didn’t know we were “Brooklyn” — that’s pretty awesome. As of yet we do not have any New York shows. We are about to go on a short tour to play the Gen Con convention. So yes, tour is a big part of our future. We’d love to make it up to New York.

RB: Be random. Tell us something we should know about the band and the music you’re proud to be a part of.

MS: We have an alter ego named Annoying Dead Best Friend. We want to start a restaurant called Blue-BQ. Where everything in the restaurant is white and the BBQ is blue. We are also in the works for shooting three/four more videos and working on a dvd. Currently writing/recording an EP for an Italy release on COUCOU net Label. I’m proud of this band because we always have fun when we play and hang out and encourage you to have fun with us.

Check out Powerlifter’s music video for Buffalo, below.

Powerlifter on Myspace

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

[photo by: matt vardy]
Totally diggin’ this video/song at the moment!

There For Tomorrow is out with the music video for the single Deathbed, from their album A Little Faster, and the outcome is pretty radstical (it’s a making up words kind of day).

The energetic heartbreak jam features the band playing in a dark warehouse, with duct-taped microphones smashing the hell outta some TV (and other various objects). Which basically sets perfect against the message of the song (ya know, with deathbeds and all). In all honesty, I think the track meshes perfectly with the video.

Hey, dudes of TFT: I’m really feeling this one!

Check out the Jonathan Bregel-directed video below.

There For Tomorrow – New Music – More Music Videos

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Miley Cyrus recently released her new disc Can’t Be Tamed, and if there’s two words to describe the album it’s auto and tune. I kid, I kid — sorta. I’ve never held back in being honest and I’ve written several entries admitting that I’m a fan of the Disney pop tart, but certain tracks on this CD go a little too far with the Auto-Tune when it wasn’t really needed, because Miley actually has a good studio voice (yeah yeah hate all you want but you’ve heard The Climb and you know you loved it). Sure, she’s no Aguilera, but the girl can hold a note. I get it, I mean, it’s obvious that the cd is going for a dancefloor club sound but I think the voice of Cyrus is tweaked out and lost along the way on a few tracks.

Although it’s lost on this track, it’s still my favorite on the album. I flippin’ love the song Robot, even in all of its Auto-Tune glory. Honestly, the album is a good effort and there’s several tunes that have really rubbed off on me including Liberty Walk, Robot, and Permanent December. Miley’s even completely believable when she sings on the slow vulnerable numbers like Every Rose Has Its Thorn (yes, a cover of the classic) and Stay.

Instead of posting the album version of Robot, I thought I’d post a live performance instead, since it strips away the Auto-Tune bliss (again, I like both versions).

Check it!

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Gaga is a topic of conversation on BTB all too frequently. Do we like her videos? Has the girl gone crazy? Is she original? Let’s put all this aside, and focus on something everyone enjoys — new music. Miz Gaga debuted a new track recently for the first time ever, that has a special twang, entitled You and I. In her own words, and I’m sure the same from her label: “It’s too rock and roll to ever be one of my singles, but it means so much to me.” As much as I hate to admit it, she’s most likely right, for what I’ve noticed on her recent Fame Monster is that my favorite tracks never get airplay (and I like it like that). Her signature foot-on-piano move is still prevalent in this video, but all in all, it’s very dissimilar for Gaga; and I absolutely love it.

Rock-tinged piano ballads get me weak in the knees every time. This particular one is for all the dreamers out there! She performed the song at Elton John’s AIDS White Tie and Tiara Ball fundraiser in the UK recently. Now tell me, would you be disappointed if you heard this on the radio? Cuz I sure as hell wouldn’t. As fun as the crazy lipstick, exposed ass, product endorsed videos, and antique tea cups can be, it sometimes gets in the way of how talented she really is. I respect Gaga and her opposition to norm, but this just strips her down, literally, to her piano and her most fierce accessory of all, her voice. She hits these notes flawlessly, and this song could definitely become an anthem for millions of love hopefuls out there.

Check out the debut, for watching it live before hearing it recorded will make one appreciate it even more. Even if it never makes radio, You and I is more for, well, you and I. I’d describe it as certified sensation. A first taste of new material leaves me yearning for more. What do you think? Are you goo goo for Gaga’s new material?

By: Caitlin Hoffman
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Look at what’s jumped out of the water. Little Fish are a boy (Nez) and a girl (Juju) on a mission to fill the world with a rebellious sound. So far, they’re off to a good start.

When you listen to the duo make music happen, it’s hard to believe they’re just a pair of peeps jamming on the guitar and drums. Like a vigorous chemical, the sound spreads through the whole house, filling it up with eager noise. And best of all, it’s like nothing you’ve heard before.

It’s dominated by the alternative, and not only do you have to sit up and take notice, but you really have to concentrate on what you’re hearing. They’re a puzzle for the eyes and sour candy for the soul.

Since their coming together to spit acid and make magic, the devious duo have been seen touring with righteous acts like Hole and Alice in Chains. Now they’re ready to bulldoze their own path through the trees; their debut album is set to be released September 14, 2010.

If this ass-kicking business of theirs isn’t enough to start a buzz, then I give up on the music industry. Juju’s voice rides on your brainwaves and disrupts your sense of linear time, and Nez’s drums send marches of kamikaze pilots to your chest. They’re loud, refined, and have the mark of true rockers seared on their chests.

Unspoiled and uncommon, yet rank with connection, their songs glimmer in the dark, as if to remind you that the world can have its way with you and spit you back out, but no matter what happens, your spirit can never be shut down. They’re perfect reminders that creativity is the best way to nourish the soul, and genius comes hand in hand with eccentricity.

If they talk about their lifelong venture with music, you can tell they’re stuck on keeping it coming. As Juju says herself, “I think I’m quite odd which is why I find it hard to relate to myself as a musician. But when I get on stage I am at my most free and I feel really confident. When I sing I give it everything.” That’s a sure-fire attitude that’ll rub off on anyone. Sure, they don’t have the stuff that will sing you to sleep at night, but definitely have that something to help you stay up ‘till sunrise.

Their performance in the video for Am I Crazy is guided by a chaotic impulse, highlighted by stomach-turning cinematography. The black and white toning of the vid only further enhances that chilling, erratic mood of the music.

When you watch it, you can just feel as they slither into your thinking cap and stay there. Let’s all ride down to Crazytown. I hear it’s beautiful there.
　

By: Caitlin Hoffman
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Ready to start a riot? The Deftones are here to help. Fully loaded and ready to rearrange your hearing and revamp your auditory nerve. I’ve always been a fan of their slick, heavy musical style, that thundering bass that makes the speakers shake if put up at a proper volume. These cool cats have been tearing it up since ‘89, and they’re not even thinking about stopping. Against all their trials (and they’ve had a lot of them), they’ve pulled it together and kept the strings strumming. Most people when faced with too many obstacles will lay down, bury their dreams, and make do with a common life. For these guys, that was never considered as an option. All anyone has to do is take a look and a listen, and they’ll understand why The Deftones have so many people dancing to their tune.

Their newest album, Diamond Eyes, is a perfect element for mass destruction and ideal creation. It was leaked onto the internet around March, and the results have been beautiful. The Deftones have a huge slough of loyal fans, and everyone has been biting their nails down, waiting for this album’s official release. Some are saying that the new album doesn’t carry the band’s classic edge, but most aren’t disappointed. (I fall in the latter category.)

Some of the songs are brimmed with pain, while others are forceful, having all passions unhinged. Like anything they put out, it’s all an idyllic headbanging induction. Thankfully, the screamo elements aren’t overdone, but have just enough zest behind them to remind you just how intense hard rock and progressive metal should feel. If anything, it’s a refreshing take on their usual style, proving, as usual, that they’re never bound to one single genre.

No matter what you want to label it, their music still has the power to make your hair stand on end and your brain feel numb with confused ecstasy. With every chorus, especially in Royal, the tune seems to hit you in slow motion, peeling away the strength of chaos and finding the centre within. Any song could be considered the ‘best song’ of the album, making the whole CD a joyride.

Yet, who would have thought that such kick-ass fellas could be so sensitive. Not only do they possess undying loyalty for their fans, but their heartfelt actions often hit right at home. In light of their bassist Chi Cheng getting into a car accident and going into a semi-conscious state two years ago, the band has gone to many lengths to keep updates on his condition, and encourage donations to help him through the process. Hard rockers with hearts of gold — how often do you see that?

If you’re in the mood to let the beat take over, check out their music video for Rocket Skates below.
　

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

This past Saturday, I woke up to an invitation to see the New York Yankees play. I said yes, even though I’ve never followed the sport a day in my life. Here’s what I learned about baseball (specifically the New York Yankees) as the day unfolded.

1. Yankee fans are obsessed crazies.

I wore a NY hat to show my support but most people were borderline nuts in their pride. It was awesome!

2. A-Rod has a nice ass BUTT…

I debated saying this because it’s um, you know, gay. But the more I thought about it, the more I wanted to say it because I think A-Rod is without a doubt a handsome guy, but Saturday, the player who I thought brought the sweet vibe swagger was Ramiro Pena. He just has the presence of someone who carries a big heart. I’m voting for him to be on the next cover of GQ. A-Rod & Derek Jeter have hogged the spotlight way too long.

3. Are you a pitcher or a catcher?

In the game of baseball no label’s less masculine than the other for these boys definitely gave it 110%, no matter the position. And no, that wasn’t meant to sound dirty. You guys are sick!

4. Birds shit on you at games.

Speaking of sick…true story, a pigeon literally decided to flush its toilet on an innocent stranger behind me. Gross but supposedly a sign of good luck and made for a good laugh, so thank you rat of the sky for that lovely gift.

5. Yankees are iconic.

Last but not least, I learned that the Yankees are an iconic team, not because they have broken numerous records but because the game they play helps to unite thousands and thousands of New Yorkers (even those like myself, who are in a separate league, if ya feel me) who might normally want to punch each other in the face. And anything that brings us together, in harmony, I’m all for.

Check out my top three songs (in no specific order) about New York City, below.

001. Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys // Empire State of Mind
This particular performance felt appropriate since it occurred during the World Series.

002. Madonna / I Love New York
Madonna came to New York with nothing but a dream and $35 dollars. If anyone defines the spirit of New York it’s her.

003. Ian Axel / Home
In case you missed it, check out the interview I did with Ian here.

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Alternative rockers from Long Island are indeed the Envy on the Coast. Their new album Lowcountry is out March 30th; full of dangerously edgy tunes that pulsate a raw urgency and grunge spirit. The boys have boundless ambitions, and make music for their growing swell of fans. Lead off single Head First in the River combines headbanging with butterflies, “Move, it’s what they say, sell them the bones that they love to hear break.”

I was lucky enough to preview this album, an album that is full of songs that I would love to call my favorite, if only I could pick one.

Envy on the Coast is a live act you don’t want to miss. Watching this group play solidifies how touring has influenced their mannerisms and music. Are they just another Warp Tour summer success? Hell no; an element of many styles is their muse, but they all have a common thread. There’s no denying that present day acts rip off one another, or whatever is poppin’ that week. They seem to understand the dynamic of letting bands influence them, and embrace the comparisons without catching a mean case of copy-cat syndrome. After all, where there is no comparison, there is no envy.

Catch the boys on tour this spring, and you won’t be disappointed. Contagious lyrics on top of intelligent guitars, heavy metal drums, and a splash of indie-pop, all combines to form a sea of memorable hooks that indeed make them…the envy.

By: Maria Ciezak
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

We’ve heard it all before, small town band makes it big; so what? Over time, many female-fronted rock bands have invaded the music scene. A recent addition, Halestorm, holds a fresh melodic sound. I’ve been following the steady progress of this storm for several months now, and they have the goods packed to ensure the ride is going to be a long one. Conducting this hard rock train is dynamic singer Lzzy Hale who brings intensity and sensuality to your ears in an 11 track dosage. Their first single “Get Off On You” is about the bands relationship to their fans at shows, how they get off on each other. Although the meaning may be as is, each time I hear the song I interpret something different, and that’s what good music does. I don’t know whether to grab a sweat rag or give the kids “earmuffs”, and that’s why it rocks. It’s dirty, fun music that’s as retro in spirit as it is fresh and modern in delivery.

Halestorm breaths a minty freshness into “hard rock” that in my opinion, has been m.i.a. for quite some time. They live up to their name with thundering rhythms, crashing drums and guitars, and a throaty power female voice, that if seen live, is bound to blow you off your seat. So dance in the rain for a little and catch these guys on tour, for if we spend our time waiting for the sunshine, we’re bound to miss the storm.

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

“I was just taking out my trash and I had, like, 300 cans of Diet Coke. It was just like, ‘How did that happen?’ I don’t even remember buying them. I also like Cinnamon Toast Crunch.”

–Robert Pattinson

Yeahhh, don’t ask! I was having a moment k?

[Sidenote: Wash your hair kids! It's not cool to look like you wandered out of a gutter or a sewage pipe. Not everyone has the swagger (or a stylist) to pull off the dirty dude look.]

Def Leppard – New Music – More Music Videos

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

If you’re a fan of American Idol you probably remember Allison Iraheta as the teen from last season with the bright ass hair. But what you will also recall is how that same girl with flaming head could sting your heart with depth & stage presence beyond her sixteen years of living. <--Allison Iraheta, Flaming Head, the debut album. No? Fine. AND NO, NOT LIKE THAT! You guys are sick!!!

Now, the 17-year-old is out with the premiere of her debut single, the hyper hooked FRIDAY I’LL BE OVER U. <--Produced by Max Martin--sounds like a Lavigne track meets Kelly Clarkson's SINCE U BEEN GONE.

“You got me/ To forget me/ So Friday I’ll be over you.”

The song is catchy as hell but why the overproduction? This isn’t Heidi Montag. Iraheta can sing her fiesty little Hello Kitty heart out. I understand it’s all about marketing and finding a niche for Iraheta to squeeze into and the song undoubtedly was produced for radio (blending in perfectly with the likes of Demi Lovato) but here’s to hoping there’s some soul-wreching gutsy ballads on her debut to showcase her rough pipes.

Check out Iraheta’s FRIDAY I’LL BE OVER YOU here.

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

MCOV 1.0 = Miley Cyrus Overkill Virus 1.0 <--Proud carrier here!

Symptons include: Nodding heads, shaking hips, and overuse of the word YEAH.

So far there is no cure (or an app for that).

Check out Party In the USA below and get exposed today! YEAH.

Miley Cyrus – New Music – More Music Videos

Case in point: Dudes exposed to MCOV1.0 below.

WARNING: Besides being pointless, watching the entire video will most likely kill your brain cells. Watch at your own risk.

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Kid: “Hit me with your best shot ‘Bama!” [Makes stupid face sticking out tongue]

‘Bama: “With determination & perseverance one can always hit with their best shot, little chump.” [Packs snowball]

Kid: “Ahhhhh!” [As snowball collides with face]

‘Bama: “Hehehe I win.” [Walks away with a swagger]

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

A ZOMBIE LOVE STORY SET TO INDIE ROCK! Brilliant.

This video is gross and weird but 110% original. And for that, it gets my seal of approval.

Husbands & wives who make music together, stay together?

Check out the video to I’M CONFUSED by the husband/wife duo from Montreal below.

By: Rob Brayl
For BiggerThanBeyonce.Com

Get your hairbrushes and air guitars ready…

Introducing HIT THE LIGHTS!

Check out the band’s cover of the 80’s classic HOW WILL I KNOW by Whitney Houston.

I find it very interesting that the band did not change “he” to “she”…hmmm?

Update: The Whitney cover was removed (lame), so instead check out the official music video for Drop the Girl, below.