March has been a decent month for music. There's been some new singles released, some old songs taking the rise, and some exciting band news. I've also finally started my new band project, Called Out, and have released two videos of original songs on the YouTube channel. Hopefully, soon I'll be able to post some cover videos using some of these top songs from each month.
1. This is Living - Hillsong Young and Free - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFR-tV2whAU
I actually prefer the acoustic version of this song to the original. Especially in the choruses, the sound is eerily similar to many of Ellie Goulding's hit songs. However, this song holds a beautiful purpose. Hillsong Young and Free have harnessed that new hip female sound, and produced multiple contemporary songs along the same line as the pop industry, but again, with a praise and worship aspect.
2. Where Are U Now - Skrillex and Diplo feat. Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKS1xjqEv8o
I'm probably going to get vilified for including this song on my list, and in the second spot! However, I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that Justin Bieber might have one of the best vocals in the male industry today. I understand his behaviour is certainly lacking, and his maturity level is quite low, but musically, there's a reason Scooter Braun snatched him up off of YouTube so quickly.
3. This is Amazing Grace - Phil Wickham - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFRjr_x-yxU
Released in 2013, this song has only recently begun to dominate the charts. Amongst many Christian lists, this is the praise and worship song of the year. Catering to young and older people alike, the upbeat song combines a mix of electronics and strong guitar, bass and drum rhythms to create an anthem song. This past month I had the opportunity to learn the electric guitar part of the song, and it was definitely one of the most fun songs I have ever learned.
4. Hideaway - Kiesza - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D70UT2wUnoM
Another interesting story for this artist! Kiesza is Canadian, born in Calgary. She was in the Royal Navy Reserves as a Naval Communicator, teaching herself to play guitar during sing alongs with the crew. She also entered the Miss Universe Canada pageant, and gave away 4500 CDs to troops serving in Afghanistan in 2008.
5. Sugar - Maroon 5 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09R8_2nJtjg
Apparently Maroon 5 isn't regarded as musical talent by many in the world. Still, I stand by my decision to include them in this list. I personally think the whole band is way better than a lot in the industry today. They are an experienced band that knows how to continually produce massive hits.
6. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
I've been playing around with this song quite a bit, as I prepare to post it as my next cover for my band Called Out. I've found that it is an extremely enjoyable song to cover. The rhythm is easy to flow with, the vocal range is challenging but sounds amazing, and the guitar part allows for a lot of freedom to experiment. This might be Sheeran's greatest song in his ever-growing list of hits.
7. The Stand - Hillsong - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV5iZBTNYrk
This is one of my favourite all time worship songs. Actually, with the combination package of Came to My Rescue, the two create an amazing impact in a service. The song is simple, but powerful. The lyrics stand for something unique, a cry to the Lord.
8. Where Can't I Find You - Sky Terminal - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-em44bgX-o
It seems every new song that I hear from this band is amazing. This one is from their older album, but their unique sound is still present. It is definitely a rock genre, but the lead singer's vocal's, Marcel Preston, can also be extremely smooth. They recently played at Air Raid hosted by Life 100.3. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to attend, but I've heard they sound amazing live as well.
9. Overwhelmed - Big Daddy Weave - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6oxXwRWFTo
A lot of the times with bands, there is a constant flow of old members leaving and new members being added to replace them. The great thing about Big Daddy Weave is that all the members except for one have been with the band since day one. All but the drummer have been committed to the cause since 2002. And the drummer only recently left, in 2013.
10. Supernova Sunrise - We Are Leo - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7Gxvze4fBE
I always like when the electric guitar is given a key role in a song. The repeated riff in this song drives the pace forward, and makes sure to provide the song with an electric atmosphere. Actually this band, just like Sky Terminal, was at a past Air Raid. I'm really going to have to pay more attention as to when these concerts happen.
Tuesday, 31 March 2015
Saturday, 7 March 2015
Ed Sheeran's Multiply Album Review
Rating: 8.6/10
Website: http://www.edsheeran.com/home.htm?force=show
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/x-deluxe-edition/id858512800
Arguably the most talented male musician in the world today, Ed Sheeran has produced yet another amazing album. And once again, the album is incredibly interesting, and possibly one of the most diverse ever recorded. With this being Ed Sheeran's second studio album, he is still developing his sound, which is possibly why he dabbles in hip hop, and variations of his classic acoustic style. However, the highlights of the album remain in Sheeran's niche; him and a guitar.
While it may seem that the hip hop side of this album is something new, really this is just the product of Sheeran's development in the genre. Heavily influenced by artists such as Pharrell Williams, while internationally Sheeran has garnered acclaim for his hip hop work, I find the strongest part of this album is when Sheeran remains true to his roots. When he crafts a song with just his guitar and his voice, he makes magic. Highlighted by Thinking Out Loud and One, Sheeran continually displays his world class skill at songwriting. For this album, rather then just stick with ballads, Sheeran has played around with some classic guitar riffs, and time signatures to create original material. Yet, overall, his style has not changed, rather it has improved.
Ed Sheeran deserves a lot of credit for this album, and for the start of his young career. He is one artist to keep an eye on for the future, as he continues to take the world by storm. I hope he continues to stick with his acoustic work, rather then venture too far into the world of electronic music, or even the hip hop genre.
Website: http://www.edsheeran.com/home.htm?force=show
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/x-deluxe-edition/id858512800
Arguably the most talented male musician in the world today, Ed Sheeran has produced yet another amazing album. And once again, the album is incredibly interesting, and possibly one of the most diverse ever recorded. With this being Ed Sheeran's second studio album, he is still developing his sound, which is possibly why he dabbles in hip hop, and variations of his classic acoustic style. However, the highlights of the album remain in Sheeran's niche; him and a guitar.
While it may seem that the hip hop side of this album is something new, really this is just the product of Sheeran's development in the genre. Heavily influenced by artists such as Pharrell Williams, while internationally Sheeran has garnered acclaim for his hip hop work, I find the strongest part of this album is when Sheeran remains true to his roots. When he crafts a song with just his guitar and his voice, he makes magic. Highlighted by Thinking Out Loud and One, Sheeran continually displays his world class skill at songwriting. For this album, rather then just stick with ballads, Sheeran has played around with some classic guitar riffs, and time signatures to create original material. Yet, overall, his style has not changed, rather it has improved.
Ed Sheeran deserves a lot of credit for this album, and for the start of his young career. He is one artist to keep an eye on for the future, as he continues to take the world by storm. I hope he continues to stick with his acoustic work, rather then venture too far into the world of electronic music, or even the hip hop genre.
 |
| Wikipedia |
Thursday, 26 February 2015
Top Ten Songs for February
February is commonly the month for love songs and ballads. While I have included a few of those in my top ten list for the month, I've also stuck with some persisting hits, and brought in some songs that may not follow the theme of love. Still, this is a strong list!
1. Sugar - Maroon 5 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09R8_2nJtjg
This song claims the top spot for the month, not because of the love theme, but because of how musically amazing it is. The groove to the song is extremely unique, matching Adam Levine's vocals. I'm not sure if I've ever heard him sing a bad song before! The sound of his voice matches the sound of the song perfectly, really creating the pop groove to the song.
2. My Lighthouse - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPtIv2lnkTY
I've never really thought of this song as a traditional Sunday morning worship tune, but I was proved wrong by Word of Life Bible Institute and their worship band. They pulled it off in a worship session perfectly, and now I see the song in a new light. Rend Collective is truly an unique band, and the spin they are putting on worship tunes is extremely refreshing.
3. Bleeding Love - Leona Lewis - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzo-EL_62fQ
Another love themed song! Again, I didn't place it this high simply because it is Valentine themed, but rather because it is an amazing song. I find that the artists that had to work the hardest to get where they are always come out with the best material. Lewis for example worked as a receptionist and a Pizza Hut waitress to fund her studio time, before realizing that her demos were getting no where. She then decided to audition for X Factor, and the rest is history.
4. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
You just can't knock this song off of my playlists right now. It seems American/Canadian Radio is also picking up on the song, as it dominates the second spot on the Billboard Hot 100 right now, and is continually being played. I really like the fact that this is classic, good old, original, real music. It consists of good vocals, a catchy guitar lick, and some drums/bass to add a groove. None of that electronic, synthesized stuff that many pop songs are relying upon so heavily today.
5. Hideaway - Kiesza - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D70UT2wUnoM
Hugely being overplayed right now, this is song can get extremely annoying, yet at the same time it is a good song. It's catchy, has a good beat, strong vocals, and has the dynamics to motivate, or inspire people. These are my favourite songs. That special dynamic is hard to come by. There is a reason why almost every sporting event will play this song during the pre-game; to pump up their players.
6. Fix You - Coldplay - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4V3Mo61fJM
In my opinion, this song would not be a hit if not for the electrifying guitar riff midway through the song. The sound from that guitar is incredibly difficult to duplicate. There seems to be a hint of delay in there, but not enough to mask the well rounded distortion that covers the note picking. The actual notes are simple enough to figure out, but the recreation of the sound takes work.
7. Overwhelmed - Big Daddy Weave - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6oxXwRWFTo
One of the things I struggle the most with as a musician is timing. When I hear songs, and finger picking in times such as 6/8 like this song, I automatically revere the song so much more. You can't really hear it in this song until you listen really closely. 6/8 usually produces a swing kind of feel, but this song maintains the head sway movement. Sounds silly, but there really is a difference!
8. Piano Man - Colton Dixon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAJcv3F6zyM
A cover of the original song, Colton Dixon's version is fabulous. He originally did a part of it on American Idol, and won over the crowd and the judges with his rendition. The opening piano riff is my favourite part of the whole song. I love when instruments get a chance to shine, without anything else distracting from the talent of playing key pieces such as that intro.
9. Superman (It's Not Easy) - Five for Fighting - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRz4FY0ZcwI
Again a piano driven song. This one is another older classic song. I've always loved the song, and for a reason that is very similar to Piano Man. The opening piano riff is special, unique, and easily recognizable. It's also an amazing song to jam with, whether on the piano, the guitar, or even vocals. This song is definitely one of my all time favourites.
10. You Are My Fire - Sky Terminal - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBgxGyUlfSk
Sky Terminal's new album We are One won the GMA Rock Album of the Year 3 months ago! They can add this award to the Juno Nomination for Don't Close Your Eyes from 2011. This band clearly has a lot of potential, and it will be extremely exciting to see them progress in the coming years. They are heading out on tour later this year, and I can't wait to see them perform live!
1. Sugar - Maroon 5 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09R8_2nJtjg
This song claims the top spot for the month, not because of the love theme, but because of how musically amazing it is. The groove to the song is extremely unique, matching Adam Levine's vocals. I'm not sure if I've ever heard him sing a bad song before! The sound of his voice matches the sound of the song perfectly, really creating the pop groove to the song.
2. My Lighthouse - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPtIv2lnkTY
I've never really thought of this song as a traditional Sunday morning worship tune, but I was proved wrong by Word of Life Bible Institute and their worship band. They pulled it off in a worship session perfectly, and now I see the song in a new light. Rend Collective is truly an unique band, and the spin they are putting on worship tunes is extremely refreshing.
3. Bleeding Love - Leona Lewis - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzo-EL_62fQ
Another love themed song! Again, I didn't place it this high simply because it is Valentine themed, but rather because it is an amazing song. I find that the artists that had to work the hardest to get where they are always come out with the best material. Lewis for example worked as a receptionist and a Pizza Hut waitress to fund her studio time, before realizing that her demos were getting no where. She then decided to audition for X Factor, and the rest is history.
4. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
You just can't knock this song off of my playlists right now. It seems American/Canadian Radio is also picking up on the song, as it dominates the second spot on the Billboard Hot 100 right now, and is continually being played. I really like the fact that this is classic, good old, original, real music. It consists of good vocals, a catchy guitar lick, and some drums/bass to add a groove. None of that electronic, synthesized stuff that many pop songs are relying upon so heavily today.
5. Hideaway - Kiesza - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D70UT2wUnoM
Hugely being overplayed right now, this is song can get extremely annoying, yet at the same time it is a good song. It's catchy, has a good beat, strong vocals, and has the dynamics to motivate, or inspire people. These are my favourite songs. That special dynamic is hard to come by. There is a reason why almost every sporting event will play this song during the pre-game; to pump up their players.
6. Fix You - Coldplay - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4V3Mo61fJM
In my opinion, this song would not be a hit if not for the electrifying guitar riff midway through the song. The sound from that guitar is incredibly difficult to duplicate. There seems to be a hint of delay in there, but not enough to mask the well rounded distortion that covers the note picking. The actual notes are simple enough to figure out, but the recreation of the sound takes work.
7. Overwhelmed - Big Daddy Weave - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6oxXwRWFTo
One of the things I struggle the most with as a musician is timing. When I hear songs, and finger picking in times such as 6/8 like this song, I automatically revere the song so much more. You can't really hear it in this song until you listen really closely. 6/8 usually produces a swing kind of feel, but this song maintains the head sway movement. Sounds silly, but there really is a difference!
8. Piano Man - Colton Dixon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAJcv3F6zyM
A cover of the original song, Colton Dixon's version is fabulous. He originally did a part of it on American Idol, and won over the crowd and the judges with his rendition. The opening piano riff is my favourite part of the whole song. I love when instruments get a chance to shine, without anything else distracting from the talent of playing key pieces such as that intro.
9. Superman (It's Not Easy) - Five for Fighting - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRz4FY0ZcwI
Again a piano driven song. This one is another older classic song. I've always loved the song, and for a reason that is very similar to Piano Man. The opening piano riff is special, unique, and easily recognizable. It's also an amazing song to jam with, whether on the piano, the guitar, or even vocals. This song is definitely one of my all time favourites.
10. You Are My Fire - Sky Terminal - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBgxGyUlfSk
Sky Terminal's new album We are One won the GMA Rock Album of the Year 3 months ago! They can add this award to the Juno Nomination for Don't Close Your Eyes from 2011. This band clearly has a lot of potential, and it will be extremely exciting to see them progress in the coming years. They are heading out on tour later this year, and I can't wait to see them perform live!
Monday, 16 February 2015
Steve Fee's We Shine Album Review
Rating: 8.7/10
Website: https://twitter.com/feeband
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/we-shine/id264194446
This album served as a pioneer for a new sound that would take over the worship industry. With a new contemporary rock twist to some traditional tunes, and a revolutionizing rock sound to many original songs, this album was, and is a hit. Released in 2007 as Fee's first studio album, the record itself passed under the radar, with only two songs gaining major traction, All Because of Jesus, and Happy Day. Many of the other hit songs were unnoticed to a point, with the singles never being highlighted, but the general idea or purpose behind Fee's record caught on like wildfire in many churches.
At the time, worship songs were still stuck in a rigid standard. Fee's album broke this standard open. The band strived to make their music enjoyable, and fun, through their rocky sound. However, they maintained that the core message could not be lost. With originals such as All Because of Jesus, Burn for You, We Shine, and Broadcast, Fee combined their sound with good religious material to create hit worship tunes. They also dabbled in some cover material to show how their sound could really revolutionize church worship music, with Happy Day as an example.
Today, it is still a work in progress to ensure church artists don't feel limited by what people feel worship music should be. Fee's album was an amazing step forward, one that many do not recognize enough. The album deserves many more accolades, as does the band. This is an amazing album filled with excellent content, with a specific God-inspired purpose.
Website: https://twitter.com/feeband
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/we-shine/id264194446
This album served as a pioneer for a new sound that would take over the worship industry. With a new contemporary rock twist to some traditional tunes, and a revolutionizing rock sound to many original songs, this album was, and is a hit. Released in 2007 as Fee's first studio album, the record itself passed under the radar, with only two songs gaining major traction, All Because of Jesus, and Happy Day. Many of the other hit songs were unnoticed to a point, with the singles never being highlighted, but the general idea or purpose behind Fee's record caught on like wildfire in many churches.
At the time, worship songs were still stuck in a rigid standard. Fee's album broke this standard open. The band strived to make their music enjoyable, and fun, through their rocky sound. However, they maintained that the core message could not be lost. With originals such as All Because of Jesus, Burn for You, We Shine, and Broadcast, Fee combined their sound with good religious material to create hit worship tunes. They also dabbled in some cover material to show how their sound could really revolutionize church worship music, with Happy Day as an example.
Today, it is still a work in progress to ensure church artists don't feel limited by what people feel worship music should be. Fee's album was an amazing step forward, one that many do not recognize enough. The album deserves many more accolades, as does the band. This is an amazing album filled with excellent content, with a specific God-inspired purpose.
 |
| Amazon |
Friday, 13 February 2015
The Grocery Store Brawl
Check out my first published book! I wrote this short story as a school project in Grade 7, and have been working on the illustrations ever since. This is the first book in my Green Guy series, geared towards young kids.
https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/the-grocery-store-brawl/id963257195?mt=11
https://itunes.apple.com/ca/book/the-grocery-store-brawl/id963257195?mt=11
Tuesday, 10 February 2015
Best Delay Pedals
As a guitarist, my favourite effect to use is delay. Especially in worship settings, delay fills up the guitar's sound, and smooths out a lot of rough edges in transitions between notes and chords. Pioneers in the worship industry, Hillsong United spearheaded the movement to include more and more delay in their music. Electric guitarist Nigel Hendroff frequently uses the coveted Boss DD-5 Digital Delay pedal on the dotted eighth setting during many worldwide famous worship songs. The delay effect pedal market is rapidly expanding to include numerous options from small stompboxes, to douple effects, to large modelers. Here are some of the best for various price ranges for guitarists of all skill levels;
1. Boss DD Series Stompboxes - http://www.bossus.com/gear/productdetails.php?ProductId=958&ParentId=255 - 229.00-269.00 - 4.9/5
There are 4 DD Series Stompboxes from Boss, the DD-3, DD-5, DD-6, and DD-7. Each is generally the same with the 3 having the least amount of features, and the 7 having the most. Obviously because of that the 3 Series are the cheapest, with the price increasing each interval of Series.
Overall, these are extremely trustworthy pedals. With the stompbox frame, they can be dropped, kicked, and stomped on without any lasting impact on the pedal at all. Again, the small size of the pedal allows for easy transportation or attachment to a pedal board.
While there may not be an amazing variety of delay options, the control over the delays that are available are top class. The different time options are excellent, especially the dotted eighth delay. The down fall is that the tempo cannot be controlled unless the extra tap tempo pedal is bought.
Delay time can also be controlled, as well as Feedback. The Feedback control knob is one I use frequently, sometimes just to add an extra dimension to my sound, or find a pure delay tone. The DD series are simple, yet extremely efficient delay pedals. They should definitely be the first choice for anyone entering the delay market, or looking to begin to build the delay section of their effect setup.
2. Boss DD-20 Giga Delay Twin Pedal - http://www.bossus.com/gear/productdetails.php?ProductId=531 - 329.00 - 4.5/5
This is kind of Boss's pinnacle of delay pedals. It combines every aspect of their DD series stompboxes into a twin pedal with so many options and such quality. This may be the most high tech delay pedal, and the one with the most options on the market.
Again, this is a sturdy pedal. Boss is known for making durable pedals, and the twin pedals are no exception. Essentially they are kind of like two stompboxes squeezed in together. The size isn't actually that much of a problem, and can still easily fit on a pedalboard or in a gigbag for transportation.
The pedal includes the same famous delay settings from the DD series, and also features more modes such as dual or analog. The coolest feature of this pedal is it's user memory. With 4 easy accessible, writable settings, the pedal allows for endless options.
Really, this is the upgraded version of the DD Series. For those that have enough money to take the upgrade, this pedal is amazing in what it has to offer.
3. Line 6 DL4 Stompbox Modeler - http://line6.com/dl4/ - 279.00$ - 4.8/5
Known for their expertise with delay pedals, this is now the only Line 6 specific delay pedal, after they discontinued their others models. Even with the other Line 6 models on the market, this was and will continue to be their best offer in the delay section. The DL4 is only 1 part in Line 6's stompbox modeler series, with the MM4, DM4, and the FM4 finishing the combination.
The make and build, which are extremely important to the safety and longevity of the pedal, are structurally sound. While the pedal is larger, it is box shaped, and therefore easy to fit in a bag, or on a pedalboard. The frame is strong, and the front panel is sturdy.
The pedal features 16 delay models, ranging from practical U2 sounds, to exciting innovative ping pong delays. Four footswitches are included for easy saving and recalling of sounds. The pedal also allows for control over delay time, repeats, tweak, tweez and mix.
For the amount of options included, and the quality of the options, this pedal is one of the lead runners in the delay market. The size of the pedal is manageable, and the features of extraordinary. The DL4 remains one of the best.
4. TC Electronic ND-1 Nova Delay - http://www.tcelectronic.com/nd-1-nova-delay/ - 395.00 - 3.6/5
While I have never actually used this pedal, I've only heard good things about it. Again, this is a pedal that utilizes technology to the utmost degree. Extremely programmable, this pedal has everything.
This seems to be a strong pedal, with a strong metal frame. The size and shape does seem to be a little unique. The pedal in its square shape is again very different, and therefore may not be the usual shape required for a pedal board.
The actual delay on the pedal is decently good. The control over the delay is amazing, definitely top class. There are 7 types of delays available, with control over the tempo, and multiple other options. Much like a computer, the pedal again allows for saving certain settings, and other nifty options.
The Nova Delay is a great delay pedal, and extremely innovative. TC Electronic is doing a great job developing their delay sound, and this is only the first step. Actually, the company recently released a new delay pedal called Flashback, and it is gaining a lot of acclaim internationally.
5. MXR Carbon Copy Delay - http://www.jimdunlop.com/product/m169-carbon-copy-analog-delay - 227.00 - 3.9/5
Finally, the MXR Carbon Copy Delay. While the sound may not be as developed as some of the other delay options, the build of this pedal may be it's most impressive feature.
This pedal is extremely strong, built to endure almost anything. The size of the pedal is perfect, able to easily carry anywhere, or squeeze onto even the most crowded pedal board.
The actual sound coming from the pedal is also pretty impressive. However, there are not as many delay options as some of the other pedals on the market. This could be a good things for beginners, and possibly not as great for experts, but the pedal does include one special feature. There are two ways to run the delay through the pedal; modulation or no modulation. This feature allows for two very different sides of delay sounds to be heard at all times.
 |
| Boss US |
There are 4 DD Series Stompboxes from Boss, the DD-3, DD-5, DD-6, and DD-7. Each is generally the same with the 3 having the least amount of features, and the 7 having the most. Obviously because of that the 3 Series are the cheapest, with the price increasing each interval of Series.
Overall, these are extremely trustworthy pedals. With the stompbox frame, they can be dropped, kicked, and stomped on without any lasting impact on the pedal at all. Again, the small size of the pedal allows for easy transportation or attachment to a pedal board.
While there may not be an amazing variety of delay options, the control over the delays that are available are top class. The different time options are excellent, especially the dotted eighth delay. The down fall is that the tempo cannot be controlled unless the extra tap tempo pedal is bought.
Delay time can also be controlled, as well as Feedback. The Feedback control knob is one I use frequently, sometimes just to add an extra dimension to my sound, or find a pure delay tone. The DD series are simple, yet extremely efficient delay pedals. They should definitely be the first choice for anyone entering the delay market, or looking to begin to build the delay section of their effect setup.
 |
| Boss US |
2. Boss DD-20 Giga Delay Twin Pedal - http://www.bossus.com/gear/productdetails.php?ProductId=531 - 329.00 - 4.5/5
This is kind of Boss's pinnacle of delay pedals. It combines every aspect of their DD series stompboxes into a twin pedal with so many options and such quality. This may be the most high tech delay pedal, and the one with the most options on the market.
Again, this is a sturdy pedal. Boss is known for making durable pedals, and the twin pedals are no exception. Essentially they are kind of like two stompboxes squeezed in together. The size isn't actually that much of a problem, and can still easily fit on a pedalboard or in a gigbag for transportation.
The pedal includes the same famous delay settings from the DD series, and also features more modes such as dual or analog. The coolest feature of this pedal is it's user memory. With 4 easy accessible, writable settings, the pedal allows for endless options.
Really, this is the upgraded version of the DD Series. For those that have enough money to take the upgrade, this pedal is amazing in what it has to offer.
3. Line 6 DL4 Stompbox Modeler - http://line6.com/dl4/ - 279.00$ - 4.8/5
Known for their expertise with delay pedals, this is now the only Line 6 specific delay pedal, after they discontinued their others models. Even with the other Line 6 models on the market, this was and will continue to be their best offer in the delay section. The DL4 is only 1 part in Line 6's stompbox modeler series, with the MM4, DM4, and the FM4 finishing the combination.
 |
| Amazon |
The pedal features 16 delay models, ranging from practical U2 sounds, to exciting innovative ping pong delays. Four footswitches are included for easy saving and recalling of sounds. The pedal also allows for control over delay time, repeats, tweak, tweez and mix.
For the amount of options included, and the quality of the options, this pedal is one of the lead runners in the delay market. The size of the pedal is manageable, and the features of extraordinary. The DL4 remains one of the best.
 |
| Interstate Music |
While I have never actually used this pedal, I've only heard good things about it. Again, this is a pedal that utilizes technology to the utmost degree. Extremely programmable, this pedal has everything.
This seems to be a strong pedal, with a strong metal frame. The size and shape does seem to be a little unique. The pedal in its square shape is again very different, and therefore may not be the usual shape required for a pedal board.
The actual delay on the pedal is decently good. The control over the delay is amazing, definitely top class. There are 7 types of delays available, with control over the tempo, and multiple other options. Much like a computer, the pedal again allows for saving certain settings, and other nifty options.
The Nova Delay is a great delay pedal, and extremely innovative. TC Electronic is doing a great job developing their delay sound, and this is only the first step. Actually, the company recently released a new delay pedal called Flashback, and it is gaining a lot of acclaim internationally.
 |
| Amazon |
Finally, the MXR Carbon Copy Delay. While the sound may not be as developed as some of the other delay options, the build of this pedal may be it's most impressive feature.
This pedal is extremely strong, built to endure almost anything. The size of the pedal is perfect, able to easily carry anywhere, or squeeze onto even the most crowded pedal board.
The actual sound coming from the pedal is also pretty impressive. However, there are not as many delay options as some of the other pedals on the market. This could be a good things for beginners, and possibly not as great for experts, but the pedal does include one special feature. There are two ways to run the delay through the pedal; modulation or no modulation. This feature allows for two very different sides of delay sounds to be heard at all times.
Tuesday, 27 January 2015
Top Ten Songs for January
January tends to be a slow month for new musical releases. Because of that, I've reached into the vault for some of the songs that I was unable to include for any months in 2014. However, some of these songs are also upcoming singles that have a lot of potential, especially some of the Christian material.
1. Time After Time - Eva Cassidy - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWvPOJOYqGA
This is an older song, and a cover song, but amazing! I love these acoustic style songs, as they are true marks of musical skill. The ability to cover a song in this way, completely re-creating it into a new song, is also extremely skillful, and demands respect.
2. Bleeding Love - Leona Lewis - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzo-EL_62fQ
One of the hidden talents of lead singer Ryan Tedder from the band One Republic is his songwriting skills. The past few seasons of The Voice, he has worked closely with the show producing songs for the competitors, and he has written for Jennifer Lopez and Natasha Bedingfield, as well as for his own band. Still, I was surprised to hear that he wrote this song as well, partnering with Jesse McCartney to finish the song. Apparently, he was inspired by his new marriage to his wife, and the way he felt opening up to her.
3. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
I've been playing around on guitar with this song for a while now, and surprising fact; it works in almost every key! The way Sheeran crafted the chord transitions together seemingly can't sound bad, no matter what key you play it in! Stay tuned for my cover of the song which will be coming soon on my new YouTube page!
4. Overwhelmed - Big Daddy Weave - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6oxXwRWFTo
So far this is my top worship song of the year (although only being a month in!). The idea behind the song is extremely unique. Most times with songs, they all are about the same topics with just different perspectives or spins. This song takes a topic that isn't commonly sung about, and opens it up for the listener to hear about and in turn, think about, and hopefully internalize.
5. You Are My Fire - Sky Terminal - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBgxGyUlfSk
Another song from Sky Terminal's 2014 album We Are One! This one is slightly more upbeat, and is a simple song. Most of the lyrics are just repeated time after time, but I find that the lead singer's voice meshes in with the instruments extremely well. I've found that this is generally true for almost all Sky Terminal songs. If you haven't checked them out yet, give this song a listen!
6. Life of the Party - Shawn Mendes - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fcTCMWx2-s
Shawn Mendes has huge potential to become the next great music star. I've heard a lot about how Ariana Grande will claim Beyonce's crown soon, but I can't really think of who Shawn Mendes will be replacing! Maybe Elton John? Although, Mendes seems to have some additional skill sets, the core components of piano playing and songwriting are there.
7. Like a Lion - David Crowder Band - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FO3ukzt-QHs
This song may be the most covered of the modern era of praise and worship songs. Originally written by Daniel Bashta, Like a Lion has already been covered by huge names such as Passion Band, Newsboys, and of course, David Crowder. While a lot of the other versions are starting to grow on me, David Crowder's cover remains my favourite. The way he animates each word is an unheard of vocal skill.
8. Rather Be - Clean Bandit feat. Jess Glynne - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-M1AtrxztU
This is just a weird song, and the music video is even weirder. Relying on quick harsh interchanges between notes, the song has a kind of dance beat to it, while also utilizing orchestra strings and pianos, and electronic sounds. The combinations and rhythm patterns are crazy unique!
9. Mountaintop - The City Harmonic - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUYAqH2yRqQ
This was another amazing song to listen to live. To be honest, I feel that The City Harmonic's first album, I Have a Dream (It Feels Like Home) contains a lot more hits then their new one Take Heart. I do feel The City Harmonic are progressing as a band, but their first album is a lot better then their second one.
10. Sugar - Maroon 5 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09R8_2nJtjg
I stumbled upon this song from the music video for it, where the band travels around LA and crashes weddings. Maroon 5 is an extremely talented band that seems to really enjoy their music, and spreading it to as many people as they can. Granted, they also have Adam Levine, definitely one of the most talented male vocalists and rock icons in the industry today. His voice is incredibly unique.
1. Time After Time - Eva Cassidy - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWvPOJOYqGA
This is an older song, and a cover song, but amazing! I love these acoustic style songs, as they are true marks of musical skill. The ability to cover a song in this way, completely re-creating it into a new song, is also extremely skillful, and demands respect.
2. Bleeding Love - Leona Lewis - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzo-EL_62fQ
One of the hidden talents of lead singer Ryan Tedder from the band One Republic is his songwriting skills. The past few seasons of The Voice, he has worked closely with the show producing songs for the competitors, and he has written for Jennifer Lopez and Natasha Bedingfield, as well as for his own band. Still, I was surprised to hear that he wrote this song as well, partnering with Jesse McCartney to finish the song. Apparently, he was inspired by his new marriage to his wife, and the way he felt opening up to her.
3. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpyfrixXBqU
I've been playing around on guitar with this song for a while now, and surprising fact; it works in almost every key! The way Sheeran crafted the chord transitions together seemingly can't sound bad, no matter what key you play it in! Stay tuned for my cover of the song which will be coming soon on my new YouTube page!
4. Overwhelmed - Big Daddy Weave - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6oxXwRWFTo
So far this is my top worship song of the year (although only being a month in!). The idea behind the song is extremely unique. Most times with songs, they all are about the same topics with just different perspectives or spins. This song takes a topic that isn't commonly sung about, and opens it up for the listener to hear about and in turn, think about, and hopefully internalize.
5. You Are My Fire - Sky Terminal - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBgxGyUlfSk
Another song from Sky Terminal's 2014 album We Are One! This one is slightly more upbeat, and is a simple song. Most of the lyrics are just repeated time after time, but I find that the lead singer's voice meshes in with the instruments extremely well. I've found that this is generally true for almost all Sky Terminal songs. If you haven't checked them out yet, give this song a listen!
6. Life of the Party - Shawn Mendes - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fcTCMWx2-s
Shawn Mendes has huge potential to become the next great music star. I've heard a lot about how Ariana Grande will claim Beyonce's crown soon, but I can't really think of who Shawn Mendes will be replacing! Maybe Elton John? Although, Mendes seems to have some additional skill sets, the core components of piano playing and songwriting are there.
7. Like a Lion - David Crowder Band - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FO3ukzt-QHs
This song may be the most covered of the modern era of praise and worship songs. Originally written by Daniel Bashta, Like a Lion has already been covered by huge names such as Passion Band, Newsboys, and of course, David Crowder. While a lot of the other versions are starting to grow on me, David Crowder's cover remains my favourite. The way he animates each word is an unheard of vocal skill.
8. Rather Be - Clean Bandit feat. Jess Glynne - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-M1AtrxztU
This is just a weird song, and the music video is even weirder. Relying on quick harsh interchanges between notes, the song has a kind of dance beat to it, while also utilizing orchestra strings and pianos, and electronic sounds. The combinations and rhythm patterns are crazy unique!
9. Mountaintop - The City Harmonic - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUYAqH2yRqQ
This was another amazing song to listen to live. To be honest, I feel that The City Harmonic's first album, I Have a Dream (It Feels Like Home) contains a lot more hits then their new one Take Heart. I do feel The City Harmonic are progressing as a band, but their first album is a lot better then their second one.
10. Sugar - Maroon 5 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09R8_2nJtjg
I stumbled upon this song from the music video for it, where the band travels around LA and crashes weddings. Maroon 5 is an extremely talented band that seems to really enjoy their music, and spreading it to as many people as they can. Granted, they also have Adam Levine, definitely one of the most talented male vocalists and rock icons in the industry today. His voice is incredibly unique.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)