September was a month dominated by one sole band, The 1975. I stumbled upon their music while browsing iTunes, and I love their material. They have such a unique sound that instantly makes their songs recognizable, catchy, and memorable. A few other new songs also enter my charts, while surprisingly, there isn't room for song of the year candidate, Shut Up and Dance by Walk the Moon.
1. Chocolate - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfBKqaVk2Co
This song sounds very similar to Robbers, at least, the intro guitar riff does. Still, it is more upbeat, actually a really groovy song. The drum beat is very simple, but add in the guitar riff, and bass, and the song really makes you bob your head. The lead vocalist voice is perfect for this vibe in the song as well.
2. Robbers - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjHgiSx0RNQ
It's a battle between this song and Chocolate for my favourite from The 1975. I love almost all of their songs, but these two are a step ahead of the others. That could change though, with the band releasing some new music soon (within the week)!
3. Wasn't Expecting That - Jamie Lawson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AydFkrm6UrU
This song is mounting a huge challenge for song of the year. Especially with Shut Up and Dance dropping off the top ten this month, Jamie Lawson's single is right up my alley of preferred music, and seems to be on contemporary charts as well. I really think Ed Sheeran has paved the route clear for other similar songs such as this one to start breaking onto the scene. Soon, these songwriter style of songs are going to be dominating.
4. Where Are U Now - Skrillex and Diplo feat. Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKS1xjqEv8o
I really do hope that this is the direction that Justin Bieber takes with his new album. From the sound of What Do You Mean, it does seem like this is Justin Bieber's sweet spot. Hopefully his maturity comes through with the fame this next album brings, because it really would be a shame for him to fall down the same horrible path.
5. Fix My Eyes - for King & Country - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Lol1tOMR3Y
Cool story, on a major satellite radio station, this song was in the top ten countdown list, of a contemporary station! It's great that this band can be heard outside of the Christian household, especially when their sound is so catchy. The best thing is that every one of their songs remains true to their mission.
6. More Than Conquerors - The Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p8_4NbrcKA
Another Rend Collective song on the list! I'm even more excited about their new album As Family We Go. Their unique style still dominates, but they've added some variety with this album as well. They've stuck in a couple of ukulele tunes, and added some upbeat electric guitar work. In fact, their sound has taken on a Mumford and Sons kind of vibe.
7. Renegades - X Ambassadors - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tu4wWSbnIs
This is another one of the new songs that I've added to my list. I love the anthem feel, especially with the introduction built through the acoustic guitar. The chorus of voices also adds to the anthem feel. Interestingly, the band apparently wrote this song as a jingle for a commercial within days. Reminds me of a few Ed Sheeran song stories.
8. What Do You Mean - Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NywWB67Z7zQ
Justin Bieber is back! This song was the perfect re-introduction for him bursting back onto the scene. It displays his new style, his new sound perfectly, in an upbeat, catchy tune. The song is actually extremely simple, with the same electronic base track repeating over and over. In fact, there isn't a whole lot of variation throughout the song. Still, it's a classic Bieber track in terms of the hype it has created.
9. Menswear - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDIKByXhA80
The intro to this song almost reminds me of an Owl City track. It's also a different sound for this band, with a little more of an electronic feel to it, rather then the bass, drum, and guitar driven vibe. Still, I love this song as it adds another dimension to the band. It's a great way to start a concert as well.
10. Always - Kristian Stanfill - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb4VvNq8WEM
I love this song, because it's another classic Kristian Stanfill song. He is the epitome of vocal dynamics, especially when it comes to pitch and range. He loves to start his songs off in a lower dynamic, and then when he hits the chorus, he raises his pitch and therefore raises the dynamic. It really changes the way this song is received and the impact that the song has.
Wednesday, 30 September 2015
Friday, 11 September 2015
Best Distortion/Overdrive Pedals
1. MXR GT-OD - http://www.jimdunlop.com/product/m193-gt-od-overdrive - 99.99 - 4.7/5
This is definitely the best overdrive pedal on the market. Surprisingly, it's also the smallest, and one of the cheapest! Almost all of the MXR pedals made by Dunlop are shrewd purchases, but this is the star of the pack. It has great control, amazing tone, and is an all round sturdy overdrive pedal.
The GT-OD provides three options for control, making it an extremely simple pedal. It provides an output option, great for selecting just how much you want the overdrive to power your sound, a tone option, for selecting what flavour of overdrive you want, and a gain option, a must for all distortion pedals. Together, these three provide for an endless array of sounds, but most importantly, a way to get that perfect sound simply. Each end of the spectrum that this pedal provides (which is extremely wide) is great for a multitude of situations, making it a mainstay on your board. Another plus is its small build, which allows for it to squeeze onto almost any board.
This pedal is definitely my next purchase, and my top choice for overdrive pedals.
2. Boss BD-2 Blues Driver - http://www.bossus.com/products/bd-2/ - 99.99 - 3.9/5
This is another very basic pedal. The name is slightly misleading. While the pedal is great for blues music, it actually produces a mean distortion sound, with many electric guitarists, such as Lincoln Brewster, using this pedal as the launch to their experiment in effect pedals. It is a slightly basic pedal, but the sound being produced is still amazing.
With the only three options being level, tone and gain control, it is really quite simple to produce a great sound. The range isn't too amazing, but either end of the spectrum still produces a stellar distortion sound. Actually, the special thing with this pedal is that it kind of combines distortion and overdrive into a blues sound.
3. Ibanez Jemini Distortion - http://www.musiciansfriend.com/distortion-overdrive-effects-pedals/ibanez-jemini-distortion-guitar-effects-pedal - 280.00 - 4.0/5
This is one funky pedal! And it's not just the appearances that is freakishly unique, but also the actual effects. However, the swirled colours give you enough reason to add this pedal to your board to brighten it up a little!
This is one of very few dual or double distortion pedals. As far as dual pedals go, they are more designed for the extra effects, such as modulation or delay, rather than distortion. However, Ibanez have made sure to keep this pedal as simple as possible in an effort to use the dual pedal method in a way that doesn't confuse the user. The options to control the effects are fairly simple, and the set up is extremely self explanatory.
The cool thing with this pedal, is because it is dual, you get distortion and overdrive in the one pedal, rather then having to buy two separate pedals. Ibanez is known for focusing on the rock side of electric guitar work, and their distortion and overdrive effects are no exception to that special focus. The sounds are gritty, hard core, but great for a solid rock sound.
A neat added feature is the LED lights that help to differentiate between overdrive and distortion. There is also the option on the pedal to have these lights bright, or dim.
4. Visual Sound Route 66 - http://www.musiciansfriend.com/distortion-overdrive-effects-pedals/visual-sound-route-66-american-overdrive - 250.00 - 4.1/5
This pedal can almost be considered a classic now! This model has been discontinued, sadly, as this was the best build of the model. You can still get Route 66s, but only in the version 2 or 3 models, unfortunately. This version remains the best of all three. Actually acting as a dual pedal, with overdrive and compression effects combined, the sound produced is breath taking.
Again, the pedal is fairly simple control wise, with only three options for either effect. Overdrive includes drive, tone and volume, while compression has controls for sustain, tone, and gain. The two together also include a bass boost, and tone control option. While those options are basic, the sounds created are amazing. There's not much variety, but whatever you choose is a stellar sound. There's actually not much poor to say about this pedal, other then it's weird shape which is just another unique feature of this unique pedal.
5. Boss MT-2 Metal Zone - http://www.bossus.com/products/mt-2/ - 87.00 - 3.7/5
I played around with this pedal for a while previously. It was a lot of fun, but there is a reason why it is not in my current set up. Although it seems to provide many options for control over the effect displayed, the sound is actually quite similar on either end of the spectrum. It is a much dirtier distortion, with not much quality or tone produced.
The three options are level, distortion, as well as high, low, and two middle frequencies control. However, the options aren't widely varied, and don't provide different sounds to the effect produced.
This is a good starter distortion pedal, especially for those who are in to medal. It isn't one that I would take to a gig in any situation, but it was fun to play around with during a home practice.
This is definitely the best overdrive pedal on the market. Surprisingly, it's also the smallest, and one of the cheapest! Almost all of the MXR pedals made by Dunlop are shrewd purchases, but this is the star of the pack. It has great control, amazing tone, and is an all round sturdy overdrive pedal.
 |
| Jim Dunlop |
This pedal is definitely my next purchase, and my top choice for overdrive pedals.
 |
| Boss US |
2. Boss BD-2 Blues Driver - http://www.bossus.com/products/bd-2/ - 99.99 - 3.9/5
This is another very basic pedal. The name is slightly misleading. While the pedal is great for blues music, it actually produces a mean distortion sound, with many electric guitarists, such as Lincoln Brewster, using this pedal as the launch to their experiment in effect pedals. It is a slightly basic pedal, but the sound being produced is still amazing.
With the only three options being level, tone and gain control, it is really quite simple to produce a great sound. The range isn't too amazing, but either end of the spectrum still produces a stellar distortion sound. Actually, the special thing with this pedal is that it kind of combines distortion and overdrive into a blues sound.
3. Ibanez Jemini Distortion - http://www.musiciansfriend.com/distortion-overdrive-effects-pedals/ibanez-jemini-distortion-guitar-effects-pedal - 280.00 - 4.0/5
This is one funky pedal! And it's not just the appearances that is freakishly unique, but also the actual effects. However, the swirled colours give you enough reason to add this pedal to your board to brighten it up a little!
 |
| Baz the Axeman |
The cool thing with this pedal, is because it is dual, you get distortion and overdrive in the one pedal, rather then having to buy two separate pedals. Ibanez is known for focusing on the rock side of electric guitar work, and their distortion and overdrive effects are no exception to that special focus. The sounds are gritty, hard core, but great for a solid rock sound.
A neat added feature is the LED lights that help to differentiate between overdrive and distortion. There is also the option on the pedal to have these lights bright, or dim.
4. Visual Sound Route 66 - http://www.musiciansfriend.com/distortion-overdrive-effects-pedals/visual-sound-route-66-american-overdrive - 250.00 - 4.1/5
 |
| Harmony Central |
Again, the pedal is fairly simple control wise, with only three options for either effect. Overdrive includes drive, tone and volume, while compression has controls for sustain, tone, and gain. The two together also include a bass boost, and tone control option. While those options are basic, the sounds created are amazing. There's not much variety, but whatever you choose is a stellar sound. There's actually not much poor to say about this pedal, other then it's weird shape which is just another unique feature of this unique pedal.
 |
| Boss US |
I played around with this pedal for a while previously. It was a lot of fun, but there is a reason why it is not in my current set up. Although it seems to provide many options for control over the effect displayed, the sound is actually quite similar on either end of the spectrum. It is a much dirtier distortion, with not much quality or tone produced.
The three options are level, distortion, as well as high, low, and two middle frequencies control. However, the options aren't widely varied, and don't provide different sounds to the effect produced.
This is a good starter distortion pedal, especially for those who are in to medal. It isn't one that I would take to a gig in any situation, but it was fun to play around with during a home practice.
Saturday, 29 August 2015
Top Ten Songs for August
Shut Up and Dance retains the song of the summer title, but not without a fight. Many songs mounted a late challenge, which resulted in an interesting month of music. The next few months will only get more feisty, with some big names dropping some new music, such as The City Harmonic, Justin Bieber, and some bands with new Christmas music. Song of the Year is still up for grabs.
1. Wasn't Expecting That - Jamie Lawson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHmSlgy_Liw
Last month I mentioned Ed Sheeran's new record label Gingerbread Man. Jamie Lawson is the first signing for that label, and for good reason. Not only does he share Sheeran's trademark ginger hair, he also writes in a similar style to Sheeran, sings in a similar style, and plays guitar in a similar style. This song is absolutely amazing, coming close to stealing the song of the summer title from Walk the Moon.
2. Shut Up and Dance - Walk the Moon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JCLY0Rlx6Q
Possibly slipping just slightly, Walk the Moon still have captured the song of the summer for 2015. There have been many other songs that have popped up over the past month (Cheerleader, Wasn't Expecting That) that have challenged Shut Up and Dance, but after a strong start to the year, nothing was going to steal the title from this song.
3. Build Your Kingdom Here - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbdJXKqVgtg
This song is quickly turning into one of my favourite songs to play live. Just like This is Amazing Grace, the upbeat tempo keeps you on your toes, sticking to the beat, and for a guitarist like me, experimenting with strum patterns. Interestingly, the song really sticks to basics. It includes basic chord changes, basic folk drum beats, and semi-basic vocal riffs. Still, combine all that together, and you have a very unique song.
4. Where Are U Now - Skrillex and Diplo feat. Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKS1xjqEv8o
Justin Bieber is finally back with some new music. His single What Do You Mean is possibly the hottest expected song in the news this month. That single is just a taste of what is to come, with Bieber's full length album coming sometime November. After a lot of hate has been poured on Bieber in recent years, here's hoping his music is ready to prove his case.
5. Fix My Eyes - for King & Country - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Lol1tOMR3Y
A seemingly new idea that's becoming more and more popular in music now a days is interaction. Songs like this one, with complicated clapping patterns, or even songs with simple foot stomps, seem to draw the listener into the music and rhythm. Of course, this only works with songs that are upbeat, but it seems to also only work best with songs that have unique tempos, or beats.
6. Youtopia - Armin Van Burren feat. Adam Young - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTgh-QwvyVo
I've been trying to find the effect that really dominates throughout this song, but specifically in the intro. I was leaning towards delay, but now, I'm pretty sure that there actually is no effect at all. It seems instead there is a multitude of tracks being played (at least 3). Each track is simple, repeating the same thing over and over, but the DJ gets to add some variety by adding more tracks, or taking some away. Produces a nice effect, but in reality, isn't actually an electronic effect, rather just a DJ method.
7. Meteor Shower - Owl City - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HrihnDl2JQ4
This, for the longest time, has always been one of my favourite songs. For the most part, I enjoy a lot of Owl City's songs, but sometimes they border on all sounding the same. This song though, it's a cut above all other Owl City's songs. Slightly slower then a fewer of his other ones, and slightly shorter too. It just repeats itself, but it flows so so smoothly. That's what I like about electronic music, when it can sound like this song.
8. Chocolate - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfBKqaVk2Co
Stumbled across this band on iTunes, and now I can't get enough of them. Sadly, I only had room on this list for one of their songs, but I can tell you next month is going to be dominated by them. They have such an unique British sound to them. The bass licks are out of this world, the electric guitar work is like nothing I've ever heard before, and the vocals are utterly unique. I love the sound of this band!
9. Music of the Night - Andrew Lloyd Webber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77umP7IRxD4
Yes, I love some opera songs. This one for me is the best ever. In fact, I even include it when mentioning my favourite songs of all time. I love the dynamics, especially in the singer's voice. The lyrics are astounding, written with purpose on such an interesting topic. Many times today, musicians just write whatever pops into their minds. Here, it seems like the composer knew what they wanted to convey, and wrote purposefully to get that idea across.
10. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
I'm not really a huge music video fan. In fact, most times, I try to stay off YouTube to not watch music videos. I find they only try to sexualize things, or add entertainment, to take away from the music. However, the music video for this song is absolutely amazing. It fits perfectly with the song, and shows another side to Sheeran. Is there anything he can't do?
1. Wasn't Expecting That - Jamie Lawson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHmSlgy_Liw
Last month I mentioned Ed Sheeran's new record label Gingerbread Man. Jamie Lawson is the first signing for that label, and for good reason. Not only does he share Sheeran's trademark ginger hair, he also writes in a similar style to Sheeran, sings in a similar style, and plays guitar in a similar style. This song is absolutely amazing, coming close to stealing the song of the summer title from Walk the Moon.
2. Shut Up and Dance - Walk the Moon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JCLY0Rlx6Q
Possibly slipping just slightly, Walk the Moon still have captured the song of the summer for 2015. There have been many other songs that have popped up over the past month (Cheerleader, Wasn't Expecting That) that have challenged Shut Up and Dance, but after a strong start to the year, nothing was going to steal the title from this song.
3. Build Your Kingdom Here - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbdJXKqVgtg
This song is quickly turning into one of my favourite songs to play live. Just like This is Amazing Grace, the upbeat tempo keeps you on your toes, sticking to the beat, and for a guitarist like me, experimenting with strum patterns. Interestingly, the song really sticks to basics. It includes basic chord changes, basic folk drum beats, and semi-basic vocal riffs. Still, combine all that together, and you have a very unique song.
4. Where Are U Now - Skrillex and Diplo feat. Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKS1xjqEv8o
Justin Bieber is finally back with some new music. His single What Do You Mean is possibly the hottest expected song in the news this month. That single is just a taste of what is to come, with Bieber's full length album coming sometime November. After a lot of hate has been poured on Bieber in recent years, here's hoping his music is ready to prove his case.
5. Fix My Eyes - for King & Country - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Lol1tOMR3Y
A seemingly new idea that's becoming more and more popular in music now a days is interaction. Songs like this one, with complicated clapping patterns, or even songs with simple foot stomps, seem to draw the listener into the music and rhythm. Of course, this only works with songs that are upbeat, but it seems to also only work best with songs that have unique tempos, or beats.
6. Youtopia - Armin Van Burren feat. Adam Young - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTgh-QwvyVo
I've been trying to find the effect that really dominates throughout this song, but specifically in the intro. I was leaning towards delay, but now, I'm pretty sure that there actually is no effect at all. It seems instead there is a multitude of tracks being played (at least 3). Each track is simple, repeating the same thing over and over, but the DJ gets to add some variety by adding more tracks, or taking some away. Produces a nice effect, but in reality, isn't actually an electronic effect, rather just a DJ method.
7. Meteor Shower - Owl City - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HrihnDl2JQ4
This, for the longest time, has always been one of my favourite songs. For the most part, I enjoy a lot of Owl City's songs, but sometimes they border on all sounding the same. This song though, it's a cut above all other Owl City's songs. Slightly slower then a fewer of his other ones, and slightly shorter too. It just repeats itself, but it flows so so smoothly. That's what I like about electronic music, when it can sound like this song.
8. Chocolate - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfBKqaVk2Co
Stumbled across this band on iTunes, and now I can't get enough of them. Sadly, I only had room on this list for one of their songs, but I can tell you next month is going to be dominated by them. They have such an unique British sound to them. The bass licks are out of this world, the electric guitar work is like nothing I've ever heard before, and the vocals are utterly unique. I love the sound of this band!
9. Music of the Night - Andrew Lloyd Webber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77umP7IRxD4
Yes, I love some opera songs. This one for me is the best ever. In fact, I even include it when mentioning my favourite songs of all time. I love the dynamics, especially in the singer's voice. The lyrics are astounding, written with purpose on such an interesting topic. Many times today, musicians just write whatever pops into their minds. Here, it seems like the composer knew what they wanted to convey, and wrote purposefully to get that idea across.
10. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
I'm not really a huge music video fan. In fact, most times, I try to stay off YouTube to not watch music videos. I find they only try to sexualize things, or add entertainment, to take away from the music. However, the music video for this song is absolutely amazing. It fits perfectly with the song, and shows another side to Sheeran. Is there anything he can't do?
Monday, 24 August 2015
Sky Terminal's We Are One Album Review
Rating: 8.6/10
Website: http://www.skyterminal.net/
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/we-are-one/id869734367
This is the second album from upcoming Christian contemporary rock band Sky Terminal. In an album that clearly demonstrates the upward trajectory of the band and the improvement of its sound, We Are One still carries through with the wonderful unique style of Sky Terminal that was coined in their first record. Their sound has remained true, with the mixing and mastering, and overall quality drastically improved.
Sky Terminal continued their rock creativity, as they progress as a band. We Are One is chalk full of anthem songs, with catchy hooks, intros, and meaningful lyrics. Every song is a strong score, and this time, Sky Terminal hits the jackpot with Say Hello. What was drastically missing in Sky Terminal's first album, they have here with Say Hello; a genuine hit. Having an album with all good songs is fine and dandy, but you need at least one or two super songs to make the album great.
This is definitely a band to watch in the future, as they progress in their song writing, and continue to churn out hit song after hit song. Consistency doesn't seem to be an issue, improvement is on track, now it's just a matter of time before they start to dominate Christian and contemporary rock charts alike.
This is the second album from upcoming Christian contemporary rock band Sky Terminal. In an album that clearly demonstrates the upward trajectory of the band and the improvement of its sound, We Are One still carries through with the wonderful unique style of Sky Terminal that was coined in their first record. Their sound has remained true, with the mixing and mastering, and overall quality drastically improved.
Sky Terminal continued their rock creativity, as they progress as a band. We Are One is chalk full of anthem songs, with catchy hooks, intros, and meaningful lyrics. Every song is a strong score, and this time, Sky Terminal hits the jackpot with Say Hello. What was drastically missing in Sky Terminal's first album, they have here with Say Hello; a genuine hit. Having an album with all good songs is fine and dandy, but you need at least one or two super songs to make the album great.
This is definitely a band to watch in the future, as they progress in their song writing, and continue to churn out hit song after hit song. Consistency doesn't seem to be an issue, improvement is on track, now it's just a matter of time before they start to dominate Christian and contemporary rock charts alike.
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| Sky Terminal |
Tuesday, 18 August 2015
Best Multi-Effect Pedals
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| Boss US |
Good old trustworthy Boss! Their range of multi-effect pedals is astounding, without even including their double pedals! The ME-25 is the toned down version of their multi-effect offerings, but it is still jam packed with a multitude of effects. With the same strong sturdy build of their other pedals, and with the same pristine, cutting sounds of all their effects, this pedal is immediately recognizable as one from the Boss family.
Boss is known for their strong effect sounds, and this pedal is no different. All ranges of effects are stellar. Although Boss doesn't have a speciality in the effect market, it provides above standard sound for every offering.
The only other thing that docks marks from the pedal is it's slightly confusing set up. The manual is definitely required, and a few hours of experimentation is needed to even just start to understand the board.
 |
| Musicians Friend |
2. Line 6 M9 - http://line6.com/m9/ - 545.00 - 4.9/5
This is my go-to multi effect pedal, the one that is central to my current set up. It's the mid part of the M series, but in my opinion the best option of the 3 Ms. At times it can be a little restricting compared to the M12, but those times are very rare.
The pedal again utilizes Line6's electronic system with tons of preset tones for 5 categories (Delay, Mod, Distortion, Verb, and Filter). The range for each effect is amazing as well, with at least five options to tweak to get the sound you want. You also have six switches to save an effect to. The only down fall is only three can be used at a time. Still, add this to your board, and the options are endless. The pedal also allows for up to 24 different "boards" at one time, which you can switch through fairly quickly. The pedal also plugs into your computer with regular updates and new effects added.
3. Line 6 POD HD X - http://line6.com/podhd/ - 680.00 - 4.8/5
This is kind of the step up to the M9. It's definitely the largest, and most complicated pedal on this list, but it's also the most professional. Many pro electric guitar players will use this multi-effect pedal live (although most pro electric guitar players like to avoid multi-effects). For example, Lincoln Brewster uses two of these pedals live!
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| Line 6 |
4. Digitech RP500 - http://digitech.com/en/products/rp500 - 270.00 - 4.2/5
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| Digitech |
The make and build of the pedal is decently stylish, but slightly cumbersome. The expression pedal seems to be hastily added on, almost as a side thought. Still, any multi-effect board with an expression pedal built on is a step up.
5. Vox StompLab 1G - http://www.voxamps.com/stomplab - 70.00 - 3.7/5
 |
| Sweetwater |
The pedal is smaller then some other multi-effect pedals, and almost acts like a dual effect pedal. The pedal doesn't focus on effects, as much as different sounds. There are multiple preset tones in the pedal, that you can adjust through gain and level. There are tones such as ballad, hard rock, jazz, metal, and some other ones. Not as much fun as some other pedals, but also not as complicated, and therefore easier to use right away without much experimentation.
A nice feature of this pedal is the included tuner with bypass. This is an essential aspect to a multi-effect pedal, or you'll have to buy a separate tuner pedal and take up space on your board, which is a hassle, and unnecessary.
All in all, a nice pedal, without many flairs. It's a great one for someone who is just starting off, or looking for a simple pedal.
Upcoming - Line 6 Helix
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| Line 6 |
Monday, 27 July 2015
Top Ten Songs for July
Shut Up and Dance continues to dominate my lists, looking like a sure shoe in for song of the summer. It's almost looking like the song of the year! Still a few more months to go, but Walk the Moon have a hit with this song.
1. Shut Up and Dance - Walk the Moon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JCLY0Rlx6Q
I've said it many times before, but I love cool band stories, especially those where the band had to work extremely hard to get to their success. Walk the Moon has one of those cool stories. They started off by touring for three constant years, before hitting the international stage with their latest album Talking is Hard. The album required marathon writing sessions (14 hrs.), never ending recording and producing, and travel back and forth between Hollywood and Dayton. The band ended up with a huge hit.
2. Fix My Eyes - for King & Country - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Lol1tOMR3Y
Another interesting story regarding the band behind the songs! for King and Country is compromised of two Australian brothers, Joel and Luke. They come from a rather large family, of seven kids, with musical roots coming from the father who was a music promoter. This means that Joel and Luke got an early music start by performing as back up singers for their sister, Rebecca St. James.
3. Youtopia - Armin Van Buuren feat. Adam Young - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTgh-QwvyVo
Pump up songs are hard to come by, but this one fits the bill perfectly. Pump up songs are electric, setting a stage of excitement, anticipation, and power. They're perfect for sports, a big trial or test, or any situation that you need empowerment for. The rapidly rising and falling dynamics, the quick tempo, the staccato notes, all of it adds to the atmosphere that the song is crafted to create.
4. Where Are U Now - Skrillex and Diplo feat. Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKS1xjqEv8o
Justin Bieber is the real reason why this song has taken off on the charts. Fans will be excited to know that after a while of just working on collaborations, he's finally working on his next album! The big question is if he can continue to keep his music as famous as it is, especially after a few years of horrible news stories and immature actions.
5. Build Your Kingdom Here - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbdJXKqVgtg
Rend Collective really dominated my list this month with three songs. I can't wait to see what they are planning to do next, after these hit records. I love their sound, their unique song ideas, and the mission behind their band. Through every song, that mission is so clear. It's the driving force behind everything that Rend Collective has done thus far.
6. More Than Conquerors - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p8_4NbrcKA
This is the new Rend Collective song that has me hooked this month. The song comes from Rend Collective's latest album the Art of Celebration, which is really a perfect name for the attitude of this great band. This song is also a great depiction of the mission and atmosphere created by the band.
7. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
Not only is Ed Sheeran an amazing musician, but he's also venturing out in the world as a mentor. He's already worked closely with One Direction, Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift, and now he's started his own record label Gingerbread Man. Sheeran apparently tried to get Passenger to sign to a label before Gingerbread Man existed, but the label wouldn't listen to his recommendations, and a year later Passenger had a worldwide hit with Let Her Go. Now with his own label, Sheeran has embarked on a journey of finding those similar to him to cultivate their talents. His first signing Jamie Lawson is one who has a great future, one very similar to Sheeran's.
8. Praise the Lord - The City Harmonic - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVnOlBuhxjU
I'm so excited for the upcoming August long weekend! At Stayner Campgrounds, The City Harmonic will be playing a live show Saturday night! Normally, I don't ever see the same band live in concert more then once (in fact I've only have once before), but I'm excited to with these local guys!
9. Boldly I Approach - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QDnVD7gu5Y
Finally, the last Rend Collective song on this list is perhaps their top worship one. A lot of their material is more upbeat, with a campfire feel, mainly because that's their passion in music. But this song shows the diversity in their talent as well. In my opinion, this could be the top worship song of the year.
10. Someone Worth Dying For - Mikeschair - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlj2G1pvKTw
I haven't heard a song so poetic or purposeful in a long time. The words of this song drive from a place of deep emotion, hitting the hearts of listeners. I haven't heard a lot from Mikeschair, but this song is amazing! The vocalist's voice from this band fits the song perfectly, and acts to the full impact of the song.
1. Shut Up and Dance - Walk the Moon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JCLY0Rlx6Q
I've said it many times before, but I love cool band stories, especially those where the band had to work extremely hard to get to their success. Walk the Moon has one of those cool stories. They started off by touring for three constant years, before hitting the international stage with their latest album Talking is Hard. The album required marathon writing sessions (14 hrs.), never ending recording and producing, and travel back and forth between Hollywood and Dayton. The band ended up with a huge hit.
2. Fix My Eyes - for King & Country - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Lol1tOMR3Y
Another interesting story regarding the band behind the songs! for King and Country is compromised of two Australian brothers, Joel and Luke. They come from a rather large family, of seven kids, with musical roots coming from the father who was a music promoter. This means that Joel and Luke got an early music start by performing as back up singers for their sister, Rebecca St. James.
3. Youtopia - Armin Van Buuren feat. Adam Young - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTgh-QwvyVo
Pump up songs are hard to come by, but this one fits the bill perfectly. Pump up songs are electric, setting a stage of excitement, anticipation, and power. They're perfect for sports, a big trial or test, or any situation that you need empowerment for. The rapidly rising and falling dynamics, the quick tempo, the staccato notes, all of it adds to the atmosphere that the song is crafted to create.
4. Where Are U Now - Skrillex and Diplo feat. Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKS1xjqEv8o
Justin Bieber is the real reason why this song has taken off on the charts. Fans will be excited to know that after a while of just working on collaborations, he's finally working on his next album! The big question is if he can continue to keep his music as famous as it is, especially after a few years of horrible news stories and immature actions.
5. Build Your Kingdom Here - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbdJXKqVgtg
Rend Collective really dominated my list this month with three songs. I can't wait to see what they are planning to do next, after these hit records. I love their sound, their unique song ideas, and the mission behind their band. Through every song, that mission is so clear. It's the driving force behind everything that Rend Collective has done thus far.
6. More Than Conquerors - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p8_4NbrcKA
This is the new Rend Collective song that has me hooked this month. The song comes from Rend Collective's latest album the Art of Celebration, which is really a perfect name for the attitude of this great band. This song is also a great depiction of the mission and atmosphere created by the band.
7. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
Not only is Ed Sheeran an amazing musician, but he's also venturing out in the world as a mentor. He's already worked closely with One Direction, Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift, and now he's started his own record label Gingerbread Man. Sheeran apparently tried to get Passenger to sign to a label before Gingerbread Man existed, but the label wouldn't listen to his recommendations, and a year later Passenger had a worldwide hit with Let Her Go. Now with his own label, Sheeran has embarked on a journey of finding those similar to him to cultivate their talents. His first signing Jamie Lawson is one who has a great future, one very similar to Sheeran's.
8. Praise the Lord - The City Harmonic - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVnOlBuhxjU
I'm so excited for the upcoming August long weekend! At Stayner Campgrounds, The City Harmonic will be playing a live show Saturday night! Normally, I don't ever see the same band live in concert more then once (in fact I've only have once before), but I'm excited to with these local guys!
9. Boldly I Approach - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QDnVD7gu5Y
Finally, the last Rend Collective song on this list is perhaps their top worship one. A lot of their material is more upbeat, with a campfire feel, mainly because that's their passion in music. But this song shows the diversity in their talent as well. In my opinion, this could be the top worship song of the year.
10. Someone Worth Dying For - Mikeschair - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlj2G1pvKTw
I haven't heard a song so poetic or purposeful in a long time. The words of this song drive from a place of deep emotion, hitting the hearts of listeners. I haven't heard a lot from Mikeschair, but this song is amazing! The vocalist's voice from this band fits the song perfectly, and acts to the full impact of the song.
Monday, 6 July 2015
Rend Collective's The Art of Celebration Album Review
Rating: 9.1/10
Website: http://rendcollective.com/
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-art-of-celebration/id816543831
Perhaps one of the hottest worship bands right now, Rend Collective is revolutionizing the way we view worship music. Their style and approach towards praising and worshipping God is a breath of fresh air into a dwindling aspect of a Christian's life. Starting off as an experiment, Rend Collective have taken their purpose and mission statement, added some folk style to it, and created some thing God inspired.
One of the reasons this album is so special is the attitude behind the band that created it. Originally, the group started off in Northern Ireland as a bunch of young folk striving for a new church experience. "We wanted to push the boundaries because our God is not safe or small: He has a wild imagination." Ultimately, the group wanted something real, something authentic. Through their worship music, as well as prayer and missions movements, they started to rediscover God, and help others open their eyes along the way.
The Art of Celebration is the next step in Rend Collective's journey. The album aims to reveal Rend Collective's true aims as a band; celebration. The album is meant to rejoice in the Lord's strength, and revel in His power. And true enough to their aim, the album does just that, with style and flair. From rocking, feet stomping My Lighthouse, to passionate worship song Boldly I Approach, the album is filled with hits. Not only does the album have a collection of hits, the nice thing about Rend Collective is that all of their supporting songs also stick true to the band's original sound. More Than Conquerors, Joy, and All That I Am may not pack the same punch as the two formerly mentioned headliners, but they still support the album in major ways.
Website: http://rendcollective.com/
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-art-of-celebration/id816543831
Perhaps one of the hottest worship bands right now, Rend Collective is revolutionizing the way we view worship music. Their style and approach towards praising and worshipping God is a breath of fresh air into a dwindling aspect of a Christian's life. Starting off as an experiment, Rend Collective have taken their purpose and mission statement, added some folk style to it, and created some thing God inspired.
One of the reasons this album is so special is the attitude behind the band that created it. Originally, the group started off in Northern Ireland as a bunch of young folk striving for a new church experience. "We wanted to push the boundaries because our God is not safe or small: He has a wild imagination." Ultimately, the group wanted something real, something authentic. Through their worship music, as well as prayer and missions movements, they started to rediscover God, and help others open their eyes along the way.
The Art of Celebration is the next step in Rend Collective's journey. The album aims to reveal Rend Collective's true aims as a band; celebration. The album is meant to rejoice in the Lord's strength, and revel in His power. And true enough to their aim, the album does just that, with style and flair. From rocking, feet stomping My Lighthouse, to passionate worship song Boldly I Approach, the album is filled with hits. Not only does the album have a collection of hits, the nice thing about Rend Collective is that all of their supporting songs also stick true to the band's original sound. More Than Conquerors, Joy, and All That I Am may not pack the same punch as the two formerly mentioned headliners, but they still support the album in major ways.
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