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Hayley Willams “Petals For Armor” Album Review

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Hayley Williams is known for her band Paramore, however she deicded to break out on her own with her debut solo record “Petals for Armor.”

This record to me gives me major David Bowie vibes.  I love that each track has its own abstract quality.

What I found interesting was this record was originally split up into three EPs., Each expressing her journey to recovery from her divorce through therapy.

The opening number has a really cool electric drum beat, a very summer in the 80s vibe.  

“Leave it Alone” is a total 180.  The slow airy ballad shows how versatile Williams is as a vocalist.

Cinnamon is where, at least musically I start making the Bowie comparisons.  The temp moves up and lyrically speaks about making a home.

“Creepin’” takes a very modern flip on late 90s pop, If TLC was making FanMail in 2020 that’s what this track reminds me of.

“Sudden Desire” is my favorite off Petals for Armor.  The verses have a very open dance vibe and then the chorus smacks you in the face with some insane vocal rage.

“Dead Hoses” starts off with something that sounds like a voice mail, “Uh, Sorry I was in a depression”.

This track I’m assuming is based on the vulnerability she felt after her divorce.

The album shifts in mood to “My Friend with a slower tempo ode to friendship, and then switches yet again (She got us feeling everything to this point.)

“Over Yet” is such a Madonna like song, super modern take on some great 80s pop vibes.

“Rose/Lotus/Violet/Iris” has some swirling vocals and ghostly delays, it talks about regrowth but using flower terms. 

The next song has a very funky manic feel with some cool piano parts, “Why we Ever” is runner up on 

my favorite list.

“Pure Love” and “Taken” both keep the 80s Synth-Pop vibe in the best way possible.  I also want to take this time to point out I don’t usually listen to this genre of music, But Willaims has made me more of a fan of it and opened my mind.

“Sugar On The Rim” and “Watch Me While I Bloom” both covey this great vibing electronic drum beats that I am totally fascinated with.

The record closes on “Crystal Clear” a venerable, dare I day love song?  Williams doesn’t usually do love songs but man, when she does it she kills it.

This record takes you on a trip through a therapy session.  All the highs and lows, Williams did such a great job piecing it together.

10/10 would recommend.

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CD Reviews

ALICE IN CHAINS “BLACK GIVES WAY TO BLUE” VINYL REVIEW

Ron

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Alice In Chains have Re-Released the 2009 album on vinyl. This album was the first Alice In Chains in 14 years and the first album with guitarist/singer Willam DuVall after Layne Staley passed away in 2002. 

I was a huge Alice In Chains fan and was a big fan of both Layne and Jerry. When this album first came out I remember sorta pushing it the side only cause of sadness about Layne but after hearing “Check My Brain” I gave it a chance and was so glad that I did. This album is amazing and really put Alice In Chains back into the mainstream. 

The vinyl not only looks super awesome but sounds amazing. If you’re a fan of Alice In Chains and into collecting Vinyl, this album is a must in your collection. It’s a great packed vinyl with 2 vinyls included. 

Side A: All Secrets Known, Check My Brain and Last of My Kind. Side B: Your Decision, A Looking in View. Side C: When The Sun Rose Again, Acid Bubble, Lesson Learned. Side D: Take Her Out, Private Hell, Black Gives Away To Blue

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CD Reviews

VENDED: Album Review

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9/20/24 sees the independent release of the full-length, self-titled debut album from Des Moines, Iowa natives Vended. Featuring vocalist Griffin Taylor, Simon Crahan on drums, Jeremiah Pugh on bass, Cole Espland on lead guitar, and Connor Grodzicki on rhythm guitar.

On this album they have taken more abrasive elements of nu metal as seen in the late 90s from bands like Slipknot and Soulfly and utilized elements of metalcore to slap a fresh coat of paint on the style. There are elements that remind me of the more modern and spastic styles of nu metal, similar to a band like Tallah. 

Griffin’s vocal styling showcases mid-range screams as the main driving force bending the vocals. True to the nu metal elements, the rage and anger perceived from the screams are offset by the occasional catchy riff or fast talking, almost rapping stylized lyrics. 

Crahan shows an impressive command of rhythm with his double bass drum. Driving each track forward with a machine gun-like purpose, which makes the more groove-oriented parts hit much harder. Crahan, in addition to the rest of the rhythm section (Espland and Pugh), all really work together well to keep the momentum moving forward while not sacrificing said groove. 

While I wouldn’t call it album of the year or anything. It’s definitely worth checking out. Standout tracks: “Nihilism” and “The Far Side”. 

Vended can be found on the usual socials. And the album is available on all streaming platforms. And physical copies can be purchased though https://www.officialvended.com

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CD Reviews

DevilSkin “Surfacing” EP 

Ron

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It’s been 4 years since Devilskin’s last album, “Red.” The New Zealand band has followed up with their new EP, “Surfacing.” 

This 6-song EP starts off with “Whale Song,” which just rocks and puts you right in the mood for what Devilskin is going to bring. I love Jennie Skulander’s voice; it works perfectly with the tone and grittiness of the album. 

The EP has two covers on it. “Barracuda,” which we reviewed before and is a great cover song. The band also takes a swing at Dio’s “Holy Diver.” I am pretty critical about anyone covering Dio. Most bands try too hard to sound like Ronnie, which doesn’t always work out. However, I like this cover because the band takes their own path when covering it and makes it their own. 

“Let Me Breathe,” “Insects,” and “Unborn” round up the rest of the EP. Which makes the EP a great listen from beginning to end. There has been a great resurgence of bands coming from New Zealand that kick ass. DevilSkin is on top of that list of bands. I hope that they make it over to the US soon so we can get a chance to check them out live. If you’re into a great rock EP and want to listen to something new and fresh, I recommend checking out this EP.

 THIS IS A SPONSORED REVIEW BROUGHT TO YOU BY TAG PUBLICITY   

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