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Fun Stuff => BAND => Topic started by: !!!CPAOI!!! on 29 Jan 2007, 07:00

Title: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: !!!CPAOI!!! on 29 Jan 2007, 07:00
This thread will be the discussion board for the second group.  The rules from the previous thread can be read here (http://forums.questionablecontent.net/index.php/topic,14797.0.html).

Participants

1. Will
2. valley_parade
3. Dark Flame
4. Valrus
5. Caspian
6. Brittany Marie
7. amok
8. Valdemar
9. Thirgaofg
10. Scytale
11. jcknbl
12. IronOxide
13. Gridgm
14. Mobius_logic
15. CPAOI
16. Rubby
17. Dimmukane
18. Flaming Ostrich
19. thelightguy
20. fish across face
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 29 Jan 2007, 10:36
Johnny said I should hop over here so here I am, wanting to participate :-D
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Mr u Suk on 29 Jan 2007, 13:58
hey can i grap a seat in this one? i missed out on the first one.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: !!!CPAOI!!! on 29 Jan 2007, 14:33
I'll see how much interest gets shown by tomorrow morning.  Honestly if this doesn't get enough people, I'm just going to take it down and we can all take seats in the other thread and watch the game.  Or somebody else can take over management of this one.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Caspian on 29 Jan 2007, 15:27
ill join in
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Thirgaofq on 29 Jan 2007, 18:22
Hey, I'd like to join if I could. Thanks.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Mobius_Logic on 29 Jan 2007, 18:30
Ok, nevermind my last post, I guess I'm in this one.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: jcknbl on 29 Jan 2007, 18:58
Sounds cool actually.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: IronOxide on 29 Jan 2007, 19:08
I'll do it, sure why not?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 29 Jan 2007, 22:22
i want to do it but i'm not sure of my availability once i start uni again
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Scytale on 30 Jan 2007, 03:00
I'll give it a go but I'm in much the same boat as Gridgm with respect to Uni.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: valley_parade on 30 Jan 2007, 06:05
So when is it my turn? Because I think I know what I am going to share with you guys.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: !!!CPAOI!!! on 30 Jan 2007, 09:51
I think that this list of 15 should be good enough, I went back through some people's post history's and I think that this will be a) civil and b) will expose some of us to stuff we would never have found by ourselves.  I'm going to let valley_parade go first because they seem to know what they want to upload.  I'm going back to change the order later today.

Does an album every three days sound like a decent pace or should it get slowed down to a week?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: valley_parade on 30 Jan 2007, 12:59
I like once a week. I'll upload my album on Thursday.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 30 Jan 2007, 16:37
Rock on. Thanks for setting up the second team, Mr. !!!. Lookin' forward to hearing people's CDs.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 30 Jan 2007, 18:14
ok all is good
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Joseph on 30 Jan 2007, 18:24
Can I call next Thursday in advance?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: thelightguy on 30 Jan 2007, 19:02
Crap... a couple hours late.  Is there any chance I could get thrown in, or should I start another one?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: !!!CPAOI!!! on 30 Jan 2007, 20:23
Rock on. Thanks for setting up the second team, Mr. !!!. Lookin' forward to hearing people's CDs.
Thanks, and props on the Thievery Corp. avatar.

Can I call next Thursday in advance?
Sure thing.

Crap... a couple hours late.  Is there any chance I could get thrown in, or should I start another one?
Sorry dude, I have to draw the line at some point and 15 seems like the right place to stop  :|.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Rubby on 31 Jan 2007, 16:54
Is there still time?
Why does the other group get 20?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 31 Jan 2007, 17:06
A third group has started.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: SeanBateman on 31 Jan 2007, 17:32
Just make this one 20, having a third group is retarded.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: jcknbl on 31 Jan 2007, 20:23
If there no objection put me next on the list (after who ever last called a spot) I'd rather go sooner than later.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: thelightguy on 31 Jan 2007, 20:42
Just make this one 20, having a third group is retarded.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valrus on 01 Feb 2007, 18:40
Wasn't someone going to upload something today? Let's get this party started.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: jcknbl on 02 Feb 2007, 07:50
Valley parade, where are you?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: valley_parade on 02 Feb 2007, 08:58
Slipped my mind. I'm a little busy this weekend and away from a computer. If I don't have it up by 6:00PM ET on Saturday, slip me to next week or something.

Sorry guys.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Will on 02 Feb 2007, 09:09
Shane, I can take this one if you want, I can have something uploaded by this evening.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: valley_parade on 02 Feb 2007, 09:13
Sounds good, thanks man.

If anyone wants to check out my selection, it was Thunderball's "Cinescope" album.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: !!!CPAOI!!! on 02 Feb 2007, 14:08
valley_parade, go ahead and post next week.  Will, post your album when you see this.  I have brought more people in to make it a 20 person group like the first and I will modify the order.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 02 Feb 2007, 15:13
Cool, look forward to it.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: !!!CPAOI!!! on 02 Feb 2007, 19:49
Alright, if Will gets his album up tomorrow that would actually be pretty convenient.  Every week, every Sunday would give the course of an actual week to talk about it.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: !!!CPAOI!!! on 02 Feb 2007, 19:56
i want to do it but i'm not sure of my availability once i start uni again
I'll give it a go but I'm in much the same boat as Gridgm with respect to Uni.

I don't think you guys will have much to worry about.  How much input you want to give is up to you, and you'll only have to upload twice a year given the schedule, so no pressure.  I'm just glad you're both in.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 02 Feb 2007, 21:42
ok i'm getting sick of this so i'm going to skip ahead and take my turn now becuase i can't be bothered waiting for someone else to get off their ass and do it

so here's Die! Die! Die!'s second self titled EP (blue) to quote the big day out brochure they specilize in "precision drilling of unwary eardrums" they are a punk trio from NZ (why couldn't they play a show outside of the aukland one though :(

(http://www.capitalrecordings.co.nz/image/1761x200y150.jpg)

any questions??
(as suggested i've changed the http to hxxp to mask traffic here's you link)...sorry about the format

hxxp://www.megaupload.com/?d=PRZL556X
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Caspian on 03 Feb 2007, 02:21
freaking gay- I just went over my download limit, so I'm stuck on dial up speeds for 2 weeks. If I'm real bored I may download it, but it will take ages.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Kai on 03 Feb 2007, 07:29
Yeah, going over your download limit is totally into the cock.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Thirgaofq on 03 Feb 2007, 12:03
MegaUpload is giving me an error, can anyone else try it?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: jcknbl on 03 Feb 2007, 12:12
I get a "temporarily unavailable" notice.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Will on 03 Feb 2007, 13:13
Sorry guys, I got held up this weekend.  I'll take next turn if that's cool; I have mine all ready to upload whenever.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 03 Feb 2007, 16:58
I got all kinda of irritating ads and stuff on megaupload (fuckin' site) but I did get the file - reuploading Gridgm's record >here (http://download.yousendit.com/1BD739505723FA4A)< for those who couldn't get it

Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valrus on 03 Feb 2007, 18:42
Yeah, going over your download limit is totally into the cock.

I read this about eight hours ago and couldn't parse it for the life of me. Then I looked at it again and it made sense. I think this is actually a case where quoting the person before you would have helped? NOT THAT I'M ADVOCATING ANY SUCH THING OF COURSE

Edit: I think I was trying to interpret Kai's post in terms of the, you know, freaky Amazon-river penis-infiltration nightmare-fish.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Will on 04 Feb 2007, 02:05
So I guess I'm gonna be the first to comment on this one.  Right of the bat, I dig this stuff.  The intro track kind of threw me, because when "Disappear Here" kicked in, it wasn't at all what I was expecting, but other than that, you can count me as a new fan.  These guys fit in perfectly in my playlist alongside the likes of Pg.99 and Orchid, but without as much abrasive screaming.  I love the under-produced sound they have going for them; it has that raw and dirty punk-rock feel to it that has always appealed to me.  I didn't care for the vocals at all at first, but after a couple of songs they grew on me.  This band reminds me in a lot of ways of a more "British" sounding version of Ten Grand, vocally reminescent even of the pAperchAse just a bit, only not nearly as creepy.  On the side, "Auckland Is Burning" sounds like someone took the main riff to "Low" by the Foo Fighters and dirtied it up a hell of a lot.  Not a bad way to go at all, I should say.  7/10 in my book.

Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 04 Feb 2007, 02:25
Heh, the first CD for this group is by Die! Die Die! and the first CD for the other group had a song with the same name.  Odd.

So I guess I'm gonna be the first to comment on this one.
I was just typing my comments when you posted!  :-)

Fast slabs of go go go is not really my cup of delicate chamomile tea, so I'm not too sure what to say about this.  I'd prefer punk with a bit more post- in there, I guess, whether it's weird noises or non-rock influences or whatever.  Intellectually, I like that it's pretty uncompromising, and when things do change pace it seems to fit in well with what they're doing elsewhere.  Enjoyment wise, I also like those slower bits.  The rattling outro on (the awesomely titled) Everybody's Got Something To Hide Except For Me And My Mikey, for instance.  Also like the fuzzy bass... bvvvbvvvbvvvbvvv

I love the under-produced sound they have going for them; it has that raw and dirty punk-rock feel to it that has always appealed to me.
I did a web snoop, found it was produced by Steve Albini.  Certainly has his sound - although the music's different I thought of PJ Harvey's 'Rid of Me' straight away, and having made the connection I couldn't stop thinking about Shellac when I was listening.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Will on 04 Feb 2007, 02:32
I'm thoroughly convinced that Albini has Midas' fingers.  While my familiarity with his work is somewhat limited, the man even managed to make Chevelle sound really good on their first album, and I haven't really heard anything with his name attached to it that I didn't like at least the sound that the album had, even if the songs themselves weren't really my bag.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Scytale on 04 Feb 2007, 03:07
gah I tried to listen to this I really did, I'm on my laptop (mac OSX at the moment),

1. I had no way of opening the .rar file (had to download a program for it)
2. I-Tunes couldn't play the .wma files and strangely neither could VLC, which is what I normally use for windows stuff. I could open them but there was no sound playing just silence for 3 mins or so. Anyway I've wasted about 45 mins trying to download some other programs and stuff and i'm going to bed now.

Tomorrow arvo I'll try to convert them to mp3 on my pc (Linux :( ) until then you'll just have to wait for my review.

If anyone else is having trouble I might be able to upload an .ogg or .mp3 version tomorrow if that helps people out...
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 04 Feb 2007, 03:31
if it's that much trouble i'll rip an mp3 of it tomorrow lol
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 04 Feb 2007, 03:58
Here you go, MP3s transcoded from WMA, uploaded in a zip file.  Yummos.

Code: [Select]
download.yousendit.com/D3367341147CD5BD
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Thirgaofq on 04 Feb 2007, 21:13
I liked the cd, but most of their songs sounded kind of the same to me. However, I still liked it, especially the frantic pace of a lot of the songs. The vocals are also great at matching the pace of the songs, although the lyrics are kinda hard to understand.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 04 Feb 2007, 22:20
I really liked this album, too. It seemed really familiar though... I know it sounds like something I've heard but I cannot for the life of me figure out what.

Like Will, I was a bit thrown after that intro track. I expected GY!BE or something, but instead we get fast, honest, good music. It kind of reminds me of GoGoGoAirheart, only good. I don't know when this came out, but it certainly sounds mid-ninetiesish.

My only complaint is that random high-pitched whatever that kind of sounds like a bird chirping in Auckland is Burning. I like feedback on occasion but the squeals don't really fit.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Rubby on 05 Feb 2007, 00:07
I'm gonna listen to this while at school tomorrow, but based on what you guys are saying, I have high hopes.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Scytale on 05 Feb 2007, 04:03
I've listened to it  twice now, I dunno how to put it, probably need to give it a few more listens, but it seems to have its moments of awesomeness, but mostly these get burried in awkward generic sounding passages. Track 7, "Year 9, Yeah!" was the standout for me, it the was the only track that really jumped out and grabbed my attention. I liked the riff on this track, sounds a bit more inspired then the rest of the album and the ending wow, I like... Only dissapointment and maybe it's the Prog and metal bias in me but when the tempo picks up at about 2:05 mark I was getting geared up for a nice long instrumental passage maybe a couple of solos, then it just cuts out just as the song was really getting good, like sitting through a whole bunch of foreplay for no sex...

Track 3 "Franz" was ok as well but the riff reminded me a lot of a Refused song.

 :( anyway given that this isn't what I normally listen too I'm not going to be too critical. Cheers for uploading it.

Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 05 Feb 2007, 09:48
My experience so far with Die! Die! Die!(I really dislike the name btw) is somewhat similar to Scytale's.
I think most of the songs are underdeveloped and not very memorable. This is in part due to their length but also because most of them lack meaty hooks. Granted, the EP has a great sound, as the others have said, but their songwriting is lacking. This is especially the case in the first part where songs like Diappear Here and Franz just hurry by without making an impression. There are good ideas but they don't really form into memorable songs. Nothing really gets stuck in your head after end listening. It is the longer tracks that are best in this selection I think, here their ideas are given some breathing space and allowed to grow. Auckland is Burning for example. But the biggest problem I have with Diex3 is their singer. I really can't stand him when he is being shrill and in my opinion obnoxious. A song like Shyness Will Get You Nowhere is interesting musically but his voice ruins it. He is passable in his calmer moments. Another thing is that their subject matter isn't really that interesting, they lack a uniform concept I would think. If they had another singer, I would probably be more positive towards them. They are certainly not bad but merely mediocre in my opinion.

 
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Kai on 05 Feb 2007, 21:06
I expected GY!BE or something, but instead we get fast, honest, good music.

(http://achewood.com/comic.php?date=12112006)
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 06 Feb 2007, 14:28
I meant to say about the Die! Die! Die! record that the first time I listened to it I kept thinking a song had stopped briefly and come back with a slight twist - a coda/outro/whatever - when actually it was just the end of one 1 1/2 minute song and the start of the next one.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: MusicScribbles on 06 Feb 2007, 20:20
Wow. It's totally too late to join this. Shit. I wanted to upload some Deerhunter.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 07 Feb 2007, 07:29
That is precisely my point, the songs could use some fleshing out. I am not saying they should be epic or anything but 1.50 min. is a very short timeframe to work in and few bands can pull it off and get something meaningful out of it.

Perhaps we should upload more often? Seeing as how this hasn't generated that much discussion.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: thepugs on 07 Feb 2007, 19:42
I didn't mind this.  It felt a little hasty and immature, and I totally agree that they could have spent a little while longer working on the album.  Sounded a little like IMA Robot.  I didn't think their vocals were as annoying as some people have, but I would say they would definitely benefit from a second vocalist, or one with a broader range.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 08 Feb 2007, 07:58
This is a pretty good CD. Not the kind of music I'd listen to normally but for what it is (whatever it is) it's fairly well-executed. The vocals are a bit grating and it's hard to make out more than the odd line of the lyrics, but then they fit the style of the album, so it's not too much of an issue. As for the rest of the band, the music's got really good frantic pace and energy, but I still found myself enjoying the songs where they did something melodic and interesting the most (the third song is pretty good).

I agree with the verdict that they didn't really pack enough interesting things into most of the songs to justify the short lengths; the second track sounded like an intro and a couple of others sound either like random clips of whole songs from the band's website, or undeveloped song ideas without a real beginning and end to them. Just as I feel a song could go somewhere if they threw in an interesting riff or such, it ends.

Having said that, the snippets of songs here are top notch in places, and given a bit of work this could make a solid album. As it stands it's more of a blueprint of a potentially awesome finished CD, or a manically assembled collection of good song ideas, than a consistent offering in itself.

Quote
Perhaps we should upload more often? Seeing as how this hasn't generated that much discussion.

I'll put something up in the next couple days if people want, but I don't wanna steal the first guy's thunder so only if people agree really.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Will on 08 Feb 2007, 08:11
I have my contribution ripped, zipped, and saved to my desktop, so as soon as someone tells me to do so, I'm ready to host it.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 08 Feb 2007, 09:15
Fine by me. I think about all that can be said about the EP has been.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: valley_parade on 08 Feb 2007, 09:22
Well, it is Thursday, so go ahead, Will.

And I will be ready for next week, everyone. So it's..yknow, all good.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Will on 08 Feb 2007, 17:21
Alright, well here's my contribution:  The Violet Burning's 2006 release "Drop-Dead."  The singer has one of the most soothing voices I've ever heard.  Hope at least a couple of you guys enjoy it!

Code: [Select]
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=9DBV1N57
Again, copy/paste the link so we keep this project secret, and safe!
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Caspian on 09 Feb 2007, 06:26
Should be good. I've got my Broadband back on Friday, so I'm downloading this now. I'll give it a listen, and review/comment on Sunday.

Looking forward to when it's my turn to upload. I like forcing my opinions on people  :-P . I'll try to make it something real unique.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 09 Feb 2007, 06:41
I am less than thrilled with the album after this first listen. Here's hoping it might grow :-)
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 09 Feb 2007, 09:16
Good ol' Megaupload

(http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/2082/muro8.png)

Lookin forward to hearing another one, will post a review if it ever makes it through the tubes...
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Caspian on 09 Feb 2007, 21:14
Well, I definitely don't hate this record. It's not my kind of music, but it's real catchy, and there's some good tunes here. I'm loving Humm, The Ends Begin, and Swan Sea is also real solid. While I'm not a big fan of their more uptempo numbers, their slower, more delicate stuff is real nice. THe arrangements are good, a bit of U2 worship in my opinion, but it's done quite well and it's not that overt. The layering's done really well, and the singer really delivers on the slower numbers.

Yeah, I'm digging these slower tunes. 1000 years is great too. I guess the problem is that the faster tunes really suck compared to the ballads. The singer's voice doesn't work,(especcially on Already Gone  :-( ) and the whole thing sounds real contrived. Luckily there's not a huge amount of them. I guess you need some stuff to break up the slower tunes, but still...

Final verdict: Lots of good songs. Some crap songs. Mostly though, quite enjoyable. Thanks for the upload! 7/10
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 09 Feb 2007, 23:48
This whole Violet Burning album reminds me of all the Tragically Hip songs that I don't like.

Maybe it takes some growing? I'm only on my second listen. I do like the beginning to More, actually I think it rocks until 2:40 when the vocals kick in. The guy can sing but it's so boring. I could see this as being more of a mood album though... maybe driving through a city at night kind of music?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Scytale on 10 Feb 2007, 05:01
Yeah that was ok, the slower stuff reminded me a bit of newer Anathema had that same sort of non threatening almost soothing vibe to it, Nothing really  jumped out at me though, I agree with BrittanyMarie, it does seem to be sort of background music, something you listen to when you're doing something else, I can see myself studying to this band.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 10 Feb 2007, 05:41
I feel quite repulsed after listening to it. To me it sounds like vaguely british mid-90's alt. poprock with clich? lyrics. A far cry from anything I normally listen to. It is well-made as in professional but right now I feel it is devoid of anything compelling, for me at least. Some of it is reminiscent of New Order, only without catchy melodies. His vocals are oddly forced, especially in the rocky parts e.g. Do You Love Me? My problem is not so much his voice as it is what he is saying. The lyrics to my ears fall completely short of their purpose and end up being hollow confessionals.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 10 Feb 2007, 06:21
it's definatly interesting...i'm reminded of emo singers without the angst added it didn't really seem to be very easily cornered into a genre and although that does work with some bands it didn't seem to go down well here with me i'l give a more in depth listen when it's not 1 in the morning later
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 10 Feb 2007, 07:14
Mostly The Violet Burning sounded to me like a lot of chart rock I used to listen to in the early 90s which I have to admit now was 80s bands past their best-before date.  80s bands who got in young, hip producers and made a weird amalgam of earnest stadium rock and dancey sounds, e.g. U2 around 'Achtung Baby', Simple Minds around 'Real Life', even INXS's 'Welcome To Wherever You Are'. 

There were bits that reminded me of bands like the Cult (again, early 90s stuff when they were being remixed by dance producers) and even the Cure (that one song that lifted the progression and basic rhythm pattern from Forest).  So that made me wonder whether the band either see themselves as something a little darker (or are marketed as such)?  I don't know anything about them, so not sure what their image is.

The singer reminded me a lot of Bono on the slow songs, which I actually don't mind much, but I really did find his voice a little bit sickening on the upbeat songs.  When he did the "oo" bits on some of the fast numbers it honestly sounded to me like a kid going "ewww" like "ewww gross!" rather than a rock thing and it made me ... somewhat cross.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 10 Feb 2007, 11:13
This is sounding kinda like a cross between Keane and Snow Patrol. Wouldn't sound out of place on chart radio, although the album as a whole is stronger rather than a collection of singles and filler like those 2.

So far (I'm only halfway through) I'm thinking this is the kind of music I'd put on if I was really, really stoned and just wanted some pleasant noise in the background as opposed to intense music I have to pay attention to. Having said that, even though the lyrics aren't exactly groundbreakingly original, some of the more upbeat numbers are really quite fun in a sing-a-long kinda way. It's not a bad record by any means but I'm having trouble putting my finger on what exactly it is I do enjoy about it.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valrus on 10 Feb 2007, 15:10
"Rewind" and "The Ends Begin" are totally Cure + U2. I don't know if either of those were the song you were talking about, f.a.f., but I hope so. Especially the lyrics in "The Ends Begin." My God, they're like boilerplate The Cure.

About 90% of the way through my first listen I'd say it sounds respectable but there's absolutely nothing about it that stands out or excites me in any way. Pretty middle-of-the-road.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 10 Feb 2007, 15:22
Yeah, Rewind is the one that uses the same underlying progression as The Cure's Forest and the opening music of The Ends Begin is very like them too, you're right.

I hope these comments aren't disheartening for Will or whoever's next.  I want to hear music I wouldn't otherwise know about.  I'm going to try not to second-guess anyone's tastes when it comes to my turn to upload.

Don't know why it was nagging me, but I had to hit the interweb and confirm that they're Christian Music (scene-wise).  There's something about the sound... I haven't been able to put my finger on what it is, cos it's actually not the lyrics.  I mean, that one Swan Sea could be a clearly Christian message, but singing about something from a Christian viewpoint and being part of the scene are pretty different things.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 13 Feb 2007, 22:31
What's the story, is this dead already? Don't make me upload scary German synthpop.

Seriously I don't want to jump the shark (sharks are easily angered and liable to bite when jumped) and steal someone else's spot but I'll put something up if no one else wants to go next?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Caspian on 13 Feb 2007, 23:14
It gets updated every Thursday.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 16 Feb 2007, 07:00
Valley Parade's up next. If he is around?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: valley_parade on 16 Feb 2007, 09:05
Someone doesn't want me to update.

I've been snowed in, guys, give me a break. 25 inches of snow, no innarwib connection at home and the snowblower WOULDN'T START.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 16 Feb 2007, 14:26
Take your time, I say... I don't see why this should be a big rush.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: MusicScribbles on 16 Feb 2007, 14:35
OMFGZORZ, WHYZ IT NOT UPDATEDEDZ!
I'm sorry, that was unnecessary...take your time. Honestly.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 17 Feb 2007, 04:34
if you don't hurry up i will put up the new die! die! die!
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 17 Feb 2007, 04:43
Dark Flame could upload something I suppose. I just think that to keep the thread alive we have to upload  every Thursday. Of course we should cut people some slack but if the person knows he can't make it, he should perhaps pm/email the guy who is next on the list to keep it going.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: valley_parade on 17 Feb 2007, 10:51
http://download.yousendit.com/F6142D012F96FAB1

I decided to upload Mission of Burma's 1985 live album "The Horrible Truth About Burma". In all fairness, I think they sound better live 20 years later.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Caspian on 17 Feb 2007, 19:17
sounds interesting! Looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 17 Feb 2007, 23:19
Quote
You must be logged in to download this file.

wah!
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Paulefinch on 18 Feb 2007, 09:20
Can any more people join?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Mobius_Logic on 18 Feb 2007, 13:31
I really didn't like the Violet Burning record, it pretty much sounded like a band with no identity of it's own and just ripped off a bunch of Rock N Roll stereotypes, it has its Indie song, it's Emo song, it's Garage song. It just reminded me too much of Jet.

And sorry I'm an Album behind I havent been home a lot lately.

ps. Can I upload an album sometime?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 18 Feb 2007, 14:21
You can in 3 months' time, right?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Caspian on 20 Feb 2007, 22:48
Hey, this stuff is pretty good. I'd like to hear the studio versions first, but this has a fair bit of energy, it's nice and sloppy, and it's a nice entertaining record. I like it how these guys occaisonally drop some experimentation (especcially in stuff like Tremelo), but rock out for the most part. Will I look further into this band? Well, probably not.. But if I see a CD of theres somewhere I may well buy it. I liked Reach for my Revolver a fair bit, He is She is, and Heart of Darkness the most, but I enjoyed most of the other track.

7.5/10

Is anyone else going to have a look at this album? I don't want this thread to die until after everyone's commented on my release  :-P
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 20 Feb 2007, 23:21
Oops, I somehow skimmed past the latest upload last time I checked this topic.

Placeholder, I've got it downloaded and will listen & review now.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Scytale on 20 Feb 2007, 23:45
Quote
You must be logged in to download this file.

wah!

I just tried then got the same message, how'd you guys download this?
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 21 Feb 2007, 00:23
Register an account. It's free and takes a good 20 seconds.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Scytale on 21 Feb 2007, 00:36
my bad, didn't see the sign up button
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Scytale on 21 Feb 2007, 02:47
Sorry to be double posting but wow, just finished listening to this and woah, I like, it has everything I enjoy, the low low-fi production, muffled drums, the hypnotic, droning and repetitive guitars. I wasn't expecting much when last-fm told me they were "post punk"  but wow if it wasn't for the vocals I'd think I was listening to something like Nargaroth in places. I was going to complain about the vocals but as I got through a few tracks I realised they suit the music quite well. Only thing I'd really want them to get rid off is the backing vocals that pop up from time to time but other then that, thats just about perfect. 8.5/10 from me.

How raw is their production in the studio?  That rawness is one of the really appealing things to me.

I'd say this is the best album in the thread so far. Favorite songs were "Dirt", "Red" and "Heart of Darkness" (this track really reminded me of the 1349 track "Hellfire")


As far as their sound it's like Bathory meets The Mars Volta and thats not meant as a bad thing either I'm a huge fan of both those bands...

 
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: fish across face on 21 Feb 2007, 05:44
Yeah, I like this Mission of Burma stuff too... they're one of those bands whose name gets thrown around a lot when people start talking 80s alternative business (with things like The Minutemen), but I've never bothered to check any of that stuff out.  I don't listen to much punk type stuff, so don't have much to say about it, but of course it's the energy and rawness that I find appealing... can't imagine what other reason someone would have for liking it? 

I like how sloppy some of it gets, I hate technical performances in general.  And I really love the weird live sampling or whatever's going on...?  Like it sounds like there're loops of vocals or whatever shifting around in pitch in really crazy ways... e.g. on Red. It's an awesome oddity to have that over the top of the completely shocking / shoddy recording.  Love how it's all out of tune, out of time, generally mad.

I don't think every song works by any means, but, man, most music is complete poo.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: valley_parade on 21 Feb 2007, 06:31
Fish, it is looping and what not. They actually have a fourth band member (Martin Swope on here, currently Bob Weston) who's band title is "tape manipulator".
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 21 Feb 2007, 22:37
This is going to be a crap review because I really can't think how to put this into more words than: I really enjoyed this. Not my usual kind of thing so beyond that I'm a bit stumped.

It's not the most complex music around - and as faf said, not every song works perfectly. However, the singing is top-notch and suits the music well, and the music's interesting and engaging without being needlessly complicated. It's got a good simple sound to it and moves along at an energetic pace. I don't usually listen to live albums but this is one of the very few that makes me want to go to one of the band's shows, instead of just wishing I was listening to the version of the song without the crappy sound quality and people shouting over the quiet bits.


edit: I'm guessing someone else is uploading tomorrow, if there isn't a queue already, I call next week's.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 22 Feb 2007, 00:38
list is very first post on the thread it's in order...except i'm not cause i went first to ven tfrustration for no one else doing it

i havn't had time to download this weeks effort but after those reviews i may have to
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 25 Feb 2007, 03:13
not my link but i will keep posting albums in replace of people if they don't have an album up by sunday that is my warning post on thursday everyone please keep this thread running
uploading morcheeba's album charango...quite mellow slightly trippy

Code: [Select]
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=NBLEQE5A
Code: [Select]
http://www.uploading.com/es/files/VZ7871IA/MorChar12.rar.html
please people be dilligent if i have to do this again you will be receiving the loudest grind album i own

you are warned
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 27 Feb 2007, 07:47
Morcheeba are awesome.

If the next list guy isn't active by Thursday I'ma stealin' his spot and uploading something to appease Gridgm, because I hate grindcore. :P
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 27 Feb 2007, 22:27
good it was meant to act as a deterent
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: amok on 01 Mar 2007, 00:57
ok here goes:

Alfa 9 - Then We Begin (http://download.yousendit.com/9706194217B23681)

enjoy
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Scytale on 01 Mar 2007, 01:28
I'll download Gridgm's and Amoks stuff in a sec but I agree this thead needs to wake the hell up, seems like theres only about 4 or 5 people contributing, pretty lame if you ask me, if no one posts again soon I'll upload something next, cause this is pathetic at the moment...
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Caspian on 01 Mar 2007, 04:10
I think my turn for posting is next week. I'll definitely be there  :-P

My net will be speeding up again in a few days, then I'll download and review.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Valdemar on 01 Mar 2007, 09:57
I have been somewhat preoccupied this past week or so. I liked Mission of Burma but I haven't heard it enough to say anything coherent about them. But I did think the sound was too low-fi in a way and the music meanders at times, especially Heart of Darkness. I think I might appreciate a studio album by them a bit more.

Dowloading Amok's album.
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: Gridgm on 01 Mar 2007, 14:47
i don't even know how to begin to describe that

just

FUCK!

nothing on that album seems to go together yet it works in the best possible way...kindof like a flaming lips album in that respect relistening is on the high priorities list will re-review later
Title: Re: Like a Book Club, but with Records: 2nd Group
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 09 Mar 2007, 13:59
Guys it is like SPRING BREAK so now we all have time right? I don't want this thread to die; here is The Falcon!

Code: [Select]
http://rapidshare.com/files/20236041/God_Don_t_Make_No_Trash_or_Up_Your_Ass_With_Broken_Glass_EP.rar.html