The Syndicate

Sloonei wrote: ↑Mon Mar 23, 2020 12:12 pm They don’t want you listening to Powerwolf in the office?

Lots of people are working remotely thanks to the virus. Apparently we don't have the bandwidth to both facilitate that and stream while working.
I can't listen to anything at all, and it's driving me crazy.

Remind me to finish this later I can't use Youtube for the links during working hours because of work regulations

Category Nine - Flawed Masterpiece

The Music - The Dance - 5
Submitted by G-Man

Right when this song grabbed me, it was over. The preceding minutes weren't something I liked much, with that noisy, echo-y, empty sound. The lyrics might have been the disappointing part of the song for you, but the rest of the song was for me.


Joni Michelle - Big Yellow Taxi - 6
Submitted by Elohcin

I get tired of this song pretty quickly, but it is pretty short and inoffensive. The voice and beat are reasonably good. The goofy ending didn't bother me, lol.


The War On Drugs - An Ocean In Between The Waves - 7
Submitted by Turnip Head

Pretty good, but goes on some too long. Grows on me on later listens, really capturing that 80s sound.


Tycho - A Walk - 7
Submitted by nutella

Groovy. Enjoyable. Didn't have much else to say about it.


Yes - Sound Chaser - 7
Submitted by Epignosis

Epi clearly likes Yes more than I do. This song plays to their strengths, or at least the strengths I like. Rather than rely on Jon Anderson's voice, which is not my favorite voice ever, it holds to some amazing technical music. A good listen, but I wouldn't listen to it casually, nor did it stick with me.


Six Pence - A Million Parachutes - 7
Submitted by JaggedJimmyJay

This is one of those pieces that I'd like to relax to, in solitude. The lyrics capture a particular feeling that I like, even if I'm not sure it quite matches the tone of the music. The vocals here are really enjoyable.


The Glitch Mob - Skytoucher - 8
Submitted by iaafr

Eyyy these guys did the Seven Nation Army cover. Clearly they are masters of their genre. Even if this is just something I'd expect to play in the background of an early 2010's college convention hype video, I enjoyed it quite a bit.


Radical Face - Always Gold - 8
Submitted by Sloonei

I love when I can tell how personal a song is to the writer. This song holds that feeling to me. I mostly have it up here because of the lyrics, but I enjoyed the composition as a whole.


The Whims Of Fate - Shoji Meguro - 8
Submitted by Sprityo

Of all the vocal-driven songs in Persona 5, this one is the least perfect. That makes it a good choice for this category.


Rush - Driven - 9
Submitted by birdwithteeth

I remember this album well. It was, I think, the beginning of Rush's final era, where they dropped all Synthesizers and went full hard rock heavy guitar. I really like it, and this is maybe my third favorite song on the album. I can see where it falls short of perfection, though. It doesn't have that flair some of Rush's amazing songs manage.


Sia - Alive - 10
Submitted by Macdougall

I haven't heard a Sia song I haven't loved. Her voice is everything I want from a female vocalist, really. This song breaks that voice in a way that works for the song.

8 PM EST

Sloonei wrote: ↑Tue Mar 10, 2020 8:09 pm any idea when we'll get to bask in the power metal submissions?

I've listened once, and have base ratings. I can probably be ready pretty soon. It's more an issue of time, thanks to the audio editing gig. Maybe Saturday?

nutella wrote: ↑Tue Mar 10, 2020 1:51 pm Really cool. Goes nowhere


I love that TH has already made this the next hot new syndicate meme

It does sum up a lot of mafia posts, for sure.

Category Eight: Filler Track


Neil Young - I Believe In You - 7
Submitted by JaggedJimmyJay

I'm not well-versed in Neil Young. This song in particular was alright. Nothing bad about it, nothing particularly standout.



Twenty One Pilots - Glowing Eyes - 7
Submitted by Sprityo

I've never been a huge fan of 21 Pilots. This song was better than some of the hits I've heard, but still remarkably average to me.



Inxs - Meditate - 7
Submitted by MacDougall

Really cool. Goes nowhere. The rhymes actually get a little ridiculous and annoying on relistens.



Hozier - In The Woods Somewhere - 8
Submitted by Sloonei

Moody, atmospheric. I like the guitar tone. Wayyyy better than 'Take me to Church'.



DC Talk - What If I Stumble - 8
Submitted by Elohcin

Another religious song. It is both encouraging and sobering in places. The music itself was good. Decent.



Steely Dan - The Royal Scam - 8
Submitted by birdwithteeth

Has me a'tappin my foot under my desk. Reminds me Alan Parson's project, with the organs and guitars molding the music together. Enjoyable.



Jethro Tull - Wondering Aloud - 8
Submitted by Epignosis

Short and sweet. Not what I expected from Jethro Tull, just based on what I know (and even on the album title). This is the definition of a filler track, but I really liked it.



Gotye - Smoke and Mirrors - 9
Submitted by nutella

It takes a while for each Gotye song to warm up for me, but once they do, it's so catchy. Not quite Hearts a Mess, but it's pretty up there!



Taylor Swift - All Too Well - 9
Submitted by Turnip Head

This is, quite frankly, one of the best Tswizzle songs I've ever heard. The lyrics really touch me, and the music perfectly suits her strengths.



Broken Social Scene - Pacific Theme - 10
Submitted by iaafr

This music perfectly relaxed me. I felt nostalgia, like I was playing flash games on an old boxy monitor, even though I'm not sure I've ever heard this before.



Van Halen - I'm The One - 10
Submitted by G-Man

This is some high quality Van Halen, with that rock 'n roll vibe mixed with solid harmony and powerful guitarwork. I've heard some VH filler tracks before, and this is above and beyond most of those. Super fun.

Category Seven: Playing the Crowd

Strong category, numbers would all be 7 or 8 and up but that's boring.


11. Pink Floyd - A Saucerful of Secrets - 6
Submitted by Sloonei

I've probably not gone as deep into Pink Floyd as I need to. This song, and song's like it, are part of the reason. The ambient psychadelia (or whatever it is, I'm bad at genre) doesn't do great for me. I'd much rather hear something with more structure. Once the song pulls itself together, it's beautiful, and the whole thing is an exercise in musicianship and art, but I just don't jive wit it.



10. Daft Punk - Harder Better Faster Stronger - 6
Submitted by Sprityo

I've listened to so many remixes that include this song, I'm not sure what the original sounds like. This was pretty good. I could give or take some of the more repetitive parts (Around the wo-rld) but hey, it's Daft Punk. They good.



Paul Simon - The Cool, Cool River - 7
Submitted by nutella

The song chugs along in a pleasing way. It's almost hard to believe it's live, though. Everything sounds so clean and clear, beautiful.



Pink Floyd - Comfortably Numb - 7
Submitted by JaggedJimmyJay
This is a little more my speed, and the guitar work just captivates in the solos. There's a reason Pink Floyd is known for this song, and in concert they really give it time to shine.



Devin Townsend Project - Deadhead - 7
submitted by birdwithteeth

I like DT a lot, but this particular song has a lot of that drone-y metal sound to it. You know, the sound where things slow down and the guitars ring out and drone on? Where it just sounds loud and not much else? That said, Devin's vocals over the top are incredibly powerful, and I can't help but love that part. The sound also kicks in a few times, like at 6 minutes in, and I enjoy that.



Norah Jones + Dolly Parton - Creep On - 8
Submitted by Elohcin

I've never been one of those who just 'loves' Dolly Parton. I appreciate her, and what she's done for her hometown and for others. But I never got into her music. With this being a live performance, her personality shines through, which is incredibly charming and... a little weird. The way she talks almost doesn't seem to match someone of her age, and sounds innocent and cutesy, which is both charming because of the genuine kindness and joy there and a little odd to me because of the mismatch. That said, I think it strengthens this song in both ways.



5. Alanis Morissette - You Oughta Know - 8
Submitted by Turnip Head

I love the passionate performance. Alanis has a voice I could listen to for a while. Very raw sound, works well live and I like it.



4. Reel Big Fish - S.R. - 9
Submitted by iaafr

Fun. This got stuck in my head for hours the first time I heard it. The main gag really didn't get old, and RBF pulled it off while sounding good. Long song, but I was still disappointed when it ended. A good fit for the category, as this is not something that would work on a studio album. The country bit alone is better than most of what I heard in the country category last Walrus. *drops mic*



3. Midnight Oil - Beds are Burning - 9
Submitted by MacDougall

I don't even know the original version of this song, but this is great.



2. Rush - Tom Sawyer - 9
Submitted by Epignosis

Ugh, that bass guitar sounds so good live. In the album version, which was my introduction to rock music, you can hear the bass, but it's nothing like this. It has also always amazed me to see three people make a sound as complete as this. The vocals were a little better when Geddy was younger, in my opinion, but the energy is here, and the crowd is happy to enhance it a little.



1. Queen - Somebody To Love - 10
Submitted by G-Man
Freddy Mercury is such a good frontman. His charisma and voice almost overshadow the fact that the rest of Queen is absolutely amazing. The energy Freddy brings is fantastic on the album, and especially so live.

Tonight

Tuesday?

I could do this Saturday night or maybe this coming Monday night.

I haven't finished rating cat 8. Life is stupid busy right now. I'll work at it.

Category Six: Experimental Period


11. Death Grips - Bass Rattle Stars Out The Sky - 1
Submitted by nutella

These are all very annoying sounds. And I liked Dataplex. The end of the song is the best part, partly because of the music change, and partly because it's about to end.



10. Boredomes - Spiral - 4
Submitted by JaggedJimmyJay

I always like some percussion. Here it's muddied by electronic sounds, and isn't doing anything that makes me want to tap my foot, but it's there and that's nice. The effects and voice thrown in there just seem kind of messy. The song evolves a lot as it goes, horrid in some places, just okay in others. Nothing here that drives me to give it another listen.



9. UneXpect - Chromatic Chimera - 5
Submitted by birdwithteeth

Sounds almost like an English ALI Project mixed with some metal. I absolutely adore some parts of it, the off-kilter beat and anything the woman sings. The screamy, raspy, or noisy parts I could live without. Ends up as one of my favorite songs this category mixed with one of my least-liked.



8. Tom Waits - Tango Till They're Sore - 6
Submitted by Sloonei

Yeah, I don't listen much to the blues either. Tom Waits has that good soul in his voice, it elicits a particular mood. If I want that mood, that Orleans swing/blues swagger, then this is good to listen to. If I'm not in the mood for that old classic sound, this does nothing for me.



7. Yes - Time And A Word - 6
Submitted by Elohcin

I'm a moderate fan of Yes. They impress me, but I can see where someone who doesn't listen to appreciate the artists wouldn't care for them much. Case in point, I listened to this song several times and nothing in there stuck with me. Sure, I like complexity/artistry, but I need something to stick.



6. Rainbow - Stargazer - 7
Submitted by iaafr

This is 70s music. I could tell as soon as I heard it, though I'd never heard or heard of this band/song before. It has enough of an operatic metal tinge to it to mimic 90s Ayreon. It's decent. Some of the instrumental work is really amazing. Goes on a while too long.



5. Archie Roach - Took The Children Away - 7
Submitted by Macdougall

Divorced from context, this song is alright. It's clearly got a lot of feeling in it, but I wasn't that interested the first time I heard it. After looking into who Archie Roach was, it's a little different. I appreciate this song, and while it's not something I'd put in a playlist, I enjoyed it.



4. Maudlin Of The Well - Another Excerpt: Keep Light Near You, Even When Dying - 7
Submitted by Epignosis

This song evolves from one masterful, beautiful style to another. One moment it sounds almost classical, the next it's a rock solo or a prog break with some eclectic influences. Each piece is good but some lack the characteristic hooks that would cause me to remember the song. Varied enough to hold up on repeated listens.



3. Outkast - Ghetto Musick - 8
Submitted by G-Man

I don't know what kind of hip-hop this is, but I'm having fun with it, weird as it is. These guys did Hey Ya, which is also delightfully weird and has similar vibes. I think I like this one better.



2. Gorillaz - Let Me Out - 8
Submitted by Sprityo

The Gorillaz are consistently good. I like the fusion of rap and rock that they manage, making it catchy and ear-worm-y. The chorus of this one pushed it high in the list.



1. Sherine - Baya'en El Sabr - 9
Submitted by Turnip Head

I love listening to music from other cultures. It's something different, not more of the same. We don't hear guitar work like this often in our music, but it fits well in Spanish and... is this Arabic? The peppy beat, beautiful vocals, etc. Something I don't usually get, but I really like it.

Category 5: Homage to the Greats


11. Girl Talk - Oh No - 5
Submitted by birdwithteeth

War Pigs is perfect and Girl Talk has changed it for the worse. But it's not all bad. The chorus of 'Move Bitch' fits in well, and some of the additions later on in the song are fun. Altogether, though, the intro hyped me up enough to be disappointed in the hip-hop leanings of the song's latter half. I'm just not into hip hop. As we've already noted, I do like Blitzkrieg Bop though.



10. The National - Morning Dew - 5
Submitted by Sloonei

While technically competent, this song didn't enthrall me. The singer sounds good but doesn't have much energy or life in the performance, at least not in a way that matters to me. The music takes far too long to evolve, and it just doesn't do anything interesting. I'm pretty sure it's blasphemy or something to dislike The National, but I just didn't find much here to love.



9. DJ Poly - Sweet Dreams Are Made Of Seven Nation Army - 6
Submitted by sprityo

A mashup of two songs that I really like! ... but it's not really more than the sum of its parts. This is good, and the songs fit together well musically. But it doesn't have that stark, strong minimalism of SNA, nor the haunting drive of Sweet Dreams. The middle ground isn't as strong, and winds up overcrowded in places.



8. JJJ - Jack of Farts - 6
Submitted by JJJ

I think I ran this game, and I don't remember this response, but it's perfect. It's not only funny and jab-by, it's also competently put together. I enjoyed listening, and I think the voice fits the context.
I know it seems ridiculous to complain about this, but I wish the voice didn't get quieter and louder as the singer moved. I would straight-up throw it in a playlist otherwise. I could grab the original, but it's NOT THE SAME. D:



7. 3rdegree - Going For The One - 7
Submitted by Epignosis

This isn't a Yes song I was familiar with. Listening to both the original and the cover together was worth doing, as these are both really good songs. 3rdegree's version did some things like I liked. The verse and vocals often had a harder rock sound, which I enjoy. When the song wasn't holding that rock down, and tried doing harmonies and softer sounds, I feel like Yes outclassed them a bit.



6. Cheap Trick - Ain't That a Shame - 7
Submitted by G-Man

I'm torn. On the one hand, this song introduced me to the amazing orignal just now. I think I like the original better, just because of the charisma put into it. On the other hand, I really like this too. Best Cheap Trick song I've heard, and it being a live performance makes it better. Sounds like they had fun with it.



5. Interpol - Public Pervert (Carlos D Remix) - 7
Submitted by iaafr

The bass groove, the electronic influences with the guitar-driven pulse, time kept by the constant ticking of a hi-hat... Something about that and the lyrics fitting together felt like this song was laying down a record to be remembered. Like 'let our bodies remain' left this song as the remnant. A little long and repetitive near the end, but pretty darn enjoyable.



4. Fleece - How Alt-J Makes Music (Put It In My Butt) - 8
Submitted by nutella

One of the entries worth watching the video for. Two guys eating rice cakes while noodling with a microphone to poke fun at Alt-J (whatever that is). Without the video, I'd find this catchy and be amused. With the video, I'm even more impressed and amused. The lyrics, where they're intelligible, are hilarious. I'm almost embarrassed to like this, but I've listened to it more than everything else in this category since hearing it.
I listened to an actual Alt-J song and I'm not sure I get that part of the joke, but whatever.



3. In Christ Alone - Christina Grimmie - 8
Submitted by Elohcin

I made the mistake of looking up some background on this cover. It's not a happy one. But this song is about defeating death, and with Christina no longer among the living, it seems more impactful. I've never been a fan of the warbling, wavering thing that skilled singers do, and this song doesn't mark an exception. It doesn't drag the beauty of the song down much though.



2. Paul Dempsey - Wrecking Ball - 8
Submitted by Macdougall

The acoustic guitar here sound like the song was meant to be played this way. And Paul's voice, to me, outshines Miley's. Though I could see some people not liking this voice, it works for me. This version sounds so much more passionate and clean at the same time, I really like it.



1. Disturbed - The Sound Of Silence - 9
Submitted by Turnip Head

One of my least favorite Disturbed songs. This sound just doesn't play to the usual strengths of the band. When I take away that comparison, though, I have an awesome song covered by an awesome band. It's completely different than what I'd expect from Disturbed: a deep and smooth voice, strings, piano, and mournful beauty. Divorced from its origins, this song is a masterpiece, and I have few qualms giving it the top spot.

Turnip Head wrote: ↑Sat Feb 15, 2020 1:29 pm Thursdays are my preference, can @Sloonei make it that day?

=.= That feeling when you get stood up on a date by a turnip.

Very well. Walrus this Thursday! Usual time of 8:30, unless someone wants it a teensy bit later.

I cannot Sunday. Perhaps Monday or Tuesday?

Category Four: Just Getting Started


11. Sharon Van Etten - A Crime - 6
Submitted by Sloonei

Sharon's voice is unique and I sort of like it. She carries this song. In fact, there isn't much else to it, other than the simple continued guitar riff. That sort of thing is what I asked for, but it could be a little more interesting.


10. The Naked and Famous - Punching in a Dream (Stripped) - 6
Submitted by iaafr

Very minimalistic. Not a capella, but held only to some synth and voice. Very pretty, in a way that befits the lyrics. I took a peek at the non-(stripped) version, and I think I like this better at first glace. It felt like there could be more to this song, but it didn't need more. It also fits the theme very literally, very well.


9. Guided By Voices - I Am a Scientist - 7
Submitted by JJJ

The warbling of the background guitar doesn't mesh with the other guitar that comes in, but it somehow doesn't work against the song too much. I'm not sure how GBV did that. I like the voice too, it holds up well on repeated listens.


8. Torres - Honey - 7
Submitted by Turnip Head

I really dig it when Mackenzie gets into her lyrics and sings with passion, and she does that about half the time here. The background has that edge that appeals to me, but is also muddy and repetitive at times.


7. Wolves in the Throne Room - A Looming Resonance - 7
Submitted by birdwithteeth

I feel like I can hear the change in sound this band gets from their vintage equipment, but it might just be confirmation bias. The sound isn't lo-fi, but it has a graininess to it without sounding muddy or indistinct. The ending was really cool, and justified the name of the song. I don't know that this song justified its length to me, I didn't feel like I had a lot of variety throughout, but what I heard was good.


6. The Extra Glenns - Going To Marrakesh - 7
Submitted by nutella

I should have guessed that this band was linked to TMG. I think I like this better than what I've heard, though it took me a moment to acclimate to the vocals. The guitar work that comes in the second half was delicious, and the lyrics were witty.


5. Jon Anderson - Meeting (Garden of Geda) / Sound out the Galleon - 7
Submitted by Epi

'Less members than expected.' This song is missing the rest of Yes! And it is its own thing for it. The fantasy stylings make me feel like this is the beginning of a fantasy concept album or play. Hope, the call of adventure, mysticism... It's a pretty good piece. I don't like the music as much as the feeling of it.


4. Gotye - Hearts a Mess -8
Submitted by Macdougall

That is such a weird beat. I love it. The melodies, when they come in, match it perfectly. Subtle creepiness comes across. I wish it built into anything new after the first chorus, but don't mind just a repeat of what had come before.


3. Epignosis - A Month of Sundays - 9
Submitted by Elohcin

This was (and is) my favorite song off this album, for no other reason than the chorus being an earworm. It may be just because it's not on Youtube, or because of the Lo-Fi music I've been listening to, but this song sounds clean and fresh. I also really appreciate the lyrics, touching on loss and death without being morbid.
Luna: "Is this Kansas? It sounds like Kansas."


2. The Black Keys - I'll Be Your Man - 9
Submitted by G-Man

No bass guitar, no synth or extra guitar, just a talented duo. Like Royal Blood, but with a guitarist rather than a bassist. I can dig that. It really relies on simple, catchy guitar riffs, and pulls it off nicely.


1. Savant - Wildstyle - 10
Submitted by Sprityo

I went down the rabbit trail researching this guy, trying to find out if there was some way he fit the theme other than being just one dude. He had a video game? Actually looks pretty good. From the developers of Owlboy? Nice. The song itself is some of the better video-game style electronic music I've heard, enough to pique my interest in the artist. That one sound byte made me chuckle.

Category Three: Can It Be That Simple?


11. The Old Gray Mare - The Crazy Old Man Singers - 3
Submitted by Macdougall

I particularly like the harmony on the third verse, though I do wish this cover had left in the chorus


10. Neutral Milk Hotel - The King Of Carrot Flowers, Pt. 1 - 5
Submitted by nutella

The groove laid down by the acoustic guitar doesn't let up. It carries this song and doesn't outstay its welcome. The second instrument that came in (some kind of garish wind instrument) didn't appeal to me so much.


9. Bon Iver - Beth/Rest - 6
Submitted by birdwithteeth

Very minimalistic. The silent parts made this song stand out from the crowd, as did the sweeping solos and synth influence. Listening felt like a dream, pulling from a lot of different influences and then tossing them into the ether in a way that sort of makes sense. Not what I expected from this category, but an experience worth listening to.


8. Neil Finn - Love Is Emotional - 6
Submitted by JJJ

This song almost hits an emotional spot for me, something nostalgic. It's beautiful in its own right, but a little empty other than those fleeting glimpses of feeling.


7. Iron & Wine - Flightless Bird, American Mouth - 7
Submitted by Turnip Head

Interesting title. I liked all the words not in the title too. The accordion coming in during the chorus really set it off for me, and the song keeps building from there without becoming busy or unpleasant.


6. The Decemberists - Here I Dreamt I Was an Architect - 7
Submitted by Epignosis

It's sometimes hard to describe songs in a way other than 'I like it.' Even if this is slower than a lot of songs I listen to, I like the structure of the 'story' the song tells, the themes, and the flow of the music. The chorus especially works for me.


5. Tegan and Sara - I Bet It Stung - 8
Submitted by iaafr

Simple? Uh... as a drummer, I disagree. This isn't mechanically hard-to-play, but there are some cool flourishes in there where normal time signatures are tweaked or appended. The way the musicians all incorporate that actually makes me really LIKE the song... but for the wrong reasons for this category.
I do see the simplicity for some instruments though, and I really like their sound/tone. I also think the lyrics fit the category in their own way.


4. Kevin Max - When He Returns - 8
Submitted by Elohcin

The singing here is beautiful, full of conviction and poise. As a Christian, I find the lyrics here to be both comforting and sobering. The piano music complements that voice. I don't often listen to piano ballads, but this is one of my favorites I've heard.


3. Blitzkrieg Bop (2016 Remaster) - The Ramones - 8
Submitted by G-man

This song originally came out in the 70s? Wow, that's a lot more timeless than I thought this song was, and that's saying something. Blitzkrieg Bop is one of those songs that I'll usually let play if it comes on (If you know me, that's a high standard). It's short, simple, fun, and one of those few songs I can actually play on bass guitar.


2. Darude - Sandstorm - 9
Submitted by Sprityo

Back when I was a teenager, doing martial arts, we would perform demonstrations synced up to the music in this album. The beat was consistent, and the music was invigorating despite being just a bunch of repeated notes in a row. I think I've seen a recording of this song using those 'Boomwhacker' things, it's that easy to do. Consistently fun, despite its meme status. Good pick for this category.


1. Hotel Yorba - The White Stripes - 10
Submitted by Sloonei

Exactly what I was looking for. Easy to play but fun, with up-tempo lyrics and a raw sound that could be produced by a group of friends as well as anything. Even the music video gives off that kind of vibe, with a couple of young people sitting in a bedroom playing with acoustic instruments. I need to listen to more of The White Stripes.

Walrus on the discord in 45 minutes

How does this Sunday Night at 8:30 or 9 EST sound?

Category Two: Singing In The Shower


11. G-Man - VID00036 - 3
submitted by G-Man

Way to put yourself out there! Under Pressure is a silly song in it's own way, and you look like you really had fun with it. Thanks for sharing.


10. Periphery - It's Only Smiles - 6
submitted by birdwithteeth

The vocal work here is really impressive. I would have loved to hear the actual A Capella isolated recording, which according to the internet exists, but neither you nor I could find it. I don't know whether to be fair and dock points or not, but... I liked this.


9. Smooth McGroove - Phoenix Wright: Cornered - 6
submitted by sprityo

I love Smooth McGroove! ... but I have no nostalgia or particular love for Phoenix Wright and its music. Maybe that's why this seems like one of his weaker offerings. Enjoyable, but disappointing for that reason.


8. Grizzly Bear - Knife - 7
submitted by iaafr

The fact that this a capella version was improv'd makes it really impressive. They clearly had fun, and didn't miss a beat with it. The song itself was pretty good and enjoyable.


7. Idea of North - Cold Chisel - 7
submitted by Macdougall

Beautiful. I especially like the percussion, it really adds to the song. Without the percussion, the song would still be beautiful, sentimental, but not as much my thing.


6. Julianna Barwick - The Magic Place - 8
submitted by TH

This piece is hauntingly beautiful. There is no percussion, few lyrics I can make out. Just sonic texture, painting a scene. Mystical, alluring. I'd love hearing this in a movie soundtrack or as a mood-setter.


5. Da Vinci's Notebook - Liposuction - 8
submitted by nutella

This is really fun! I've listened to some other DVN stuff, but this sounds almost like Weird Al.


4. Pentatonix - Little Drummer Boy - 8
submitted by Elohcin

I'm pleasantly surprised Pentatonix wasn't on this list more. We got some variety. That's not to say Pentatonix isn't one of the best out there for this genre. Their work here is masterful, even though Little Drummer Boy isn't a song I like much on its own. Here I can find something to love in it.


3. Camille - Senza - 8
submitted by Sloonei

The sounds Camille makes are a little... off? Something about that repeated note that comes in on the second measure irks me. The way it wavers, it almost sounds like she's confused. The song rolls with it in an experimental way, with off-beat notes that pitter and patter like raindrops. When the singing voice comes in, it's beautiful. But that one repeated note is still irksome throughout.
And on repeated listens, I keep ranking it higher.


2. Solomon Linda & The Evening - Mbube - 9
submitted by JJJ

This is a history and culture lesson wrapped up in a song. I've never heard this before, or anything quite like it. I wouldn't listen to this casually, but it was an enriching experience on an artsy level, and I thank you for recommending it. Broadened my horizons.


1. Walk the Moon - Iscariot - Middlebury Bobolinks - 9
submitted by Epignosis

This song really picks up as it goes. Somewhere along the way it stopped sounding like a college group covering a song and more like an emotional masterpiece. Something about it just hit me right. I really like it.

Category One: The Spark of Destiny


11. Joanna Newsom - "En Gallop" - 3
submitted by JJJ

This is the second time I've tried to like Joanna Newsom. I understand why some would. Her unique, airy sound brings to mind fairy tales and simpler times. I do love the harp in the background. But I just cannot stand Joanna's voice. The cracks and flaws in the way she sings are supposed to bring to mind the voice of youth and innocence, but it doesn't work for me at all.


10. Queens of the Stone Age - You Think I Ain't Worth A Dollar, But I Feel Like A Millionaire - 5
submitted by G-Man

The little bits in the opening made me laugh. When the driven music came in, I thought I'd love it, but the screamy vocals turned me off. The song never really evolved from there, though there were parts that had less screaming or more flourish to them.


9. iamamiwhoami - sever - 5
submitted by Sloonei

This is supposedly from an audiovisual album, but I don't think the music video is all that. The song itself is groovy but sad, with a haunting voice headlining it. I can't say it fits me and my type of music. The lyrics, amusingly, seem to complain about creativity being stifled at one point. Thematic?


8. Pegboard Nerds - Disconnected - 6
submitted by Sprityo

Electro music is always a good choice when you want to play background music and get something done. I like the first half (though it would be better with some swing), and then the second half falls into some less pleasing dubstep sounds for a bit.


7. MIKA - Love Today - 6
submitted by Elohcin

I never was into the effeminate 80's pop style, but I must say MIKA pulls it off with a more modern flair. The break into the more guitar-driven chorus is awesome. This is definitely one of those songs that could overstay its welcome in your head, and I mean that in the best possible way.


6. RAC - We Belong (ODESZA Remix) - 7
submitted by TH

I started out not liking this song because of the background chimes-y sound in the beginning. Yet despite a feeling the song was overproduced or repetitive in places, I couldn't stop myself from tapping my foot. This has a good sound to it.


5. The Red Paintings - It Is As It Was - 7
submitted by Macdougall

The opening guitar riff had me expecting a straightforward rock song, and I was on board. What I received was more than that, with a little SOAD mixed in and more atmosphere than I'd expected. Good hook, good atmosphere, but a little noisy in places. The tone that this song goes for is also not something I'd probably listen to often.


4. French 79 - After Party - 8
submitted by iaafr

This is a great groove I could see myself listening to while writing or drawing or painting. The opening builds up to an awesome beat, and the way that the electronic sounds in the background adds to the mix is great! After the 3 minute mark, I felt like there was nothing more to hear, though, which is the way of electronic mixes like this one.


3. The Black Piper - The Assassin in White - 8
submitted by nutella

WHAT? Sanderson's novels have soundtracks? The percussion really drives this song from the very start, giving it the same kind of intensity I expect from a powerful movie score. The ending almost doesn't seem to match the rest of the song, but was enjoyable nonetheless.


2. The Reign of Kendo - The Moments In Between - 9
submitted by birdwithteeth

http://www.mafiathesyndicate.com/viewto ... 26#p441526
I reviewed this album for SAW back in the day. I have generally the same things to say about it now, but it has grown on me. This song is better than I remember the album being, captivating in tone, musicianship, and lyrics.


1. Kansas - Miracles Out Of Nowhere - 10
submitted by epi

One of my favorite songs by one of my favorite bands? So loved because of all the musicianship and complexity and interesting rhythms within? I'd think Epi to be pandering if I didn't know him as well as I do, and understand just how this song inspires him musically, lyrically, and in spirit.

G-Man wrote: ↑Mon Feb 03, 2020 6:06 pm

speedchuck wrote: ↑Mon Feb 03, 2020 11:16 am Walrus today at 8:30 EST, or 10 hours and 15 minutes from now.

How many categories are we revealing tonight?

Probably 2.

Walrus today at 8:30 EST, or 10 hours and 15 minutes from now.

You guys make this really hard to judge.

I mean that in the best way. And also the worst.

birdwithteeth11 wrote: ↑Wed Jan 29, 2020 8:12 pm I just voted for all of the above.

Also @speedchuck I'm going to resend you all of my submissions in the easier-to-use format.

Sure, thanks.

I should be able to do the first round on Monday next week, at either 8 or 9 EST.

Sloonei wrote: ↑Tue Jan 28, 2020 3:06 pmWhat day?

I will set a day when I have categories 1 and 2 judged.

Cool. We'll probably do that then.

Epignosis wrote: ↑Tue Jan 28, 2020 12:19 am Would starting at 8pm EST be doable?

I could. That's a question for the west coast though [mention]nutella[/mention]

Elohcin wrote: ↑Mon Jan 27, 2020 7:40 pm Tuesday is fine, but I'm asleep by 10, bro. How long do these things last?

A couple hours, no more hopefully

So technically I have plans on some of these days, but not on a consistent week by week basis. I'm just checking for general availability.

Super Bowl Sunday is out. I'll be playing a DnD game.

Sloonei wrote: ↑Sun Jan 26, 2020 10:33 pm

speedchuck wrote: ↑Sun Jan 26, 2020 9:56 pm

Sloonei wrote: ↑Sun Jan 26, 2020 12:22 pm Is it alright if I submit tomorrow? Today’s the deadline but i’m not locked in on all my picks and may be unavailable tonight.

If you wanna change picks that's fine. I'd rather it all be done before the first reveal party.

And if you were looking to change the first two categories, be quick. I was going to start listening tomorrow morning.

I’m comfortable with my picks and they’re all locked in, if this was directed at me specifically.

Oh.

Not sure how I got those all out of time order. Thought your post was more recent. Thanks for the heads up.

Also POLL [mention]Turnip Head[/mention]

Sloonei wrote: ↑Sun Jan 26, 2020 12:22 pm Is it alright if I submit tomorrow? Today’s the deadline but i’m not locked in on all my picks and may be unavailable tonight.

If you wanna change picks that's fine. I'd rather it all be done before the first reveal party.

And if you were looking to change the first two categories, be quick. I was going to start listening tomorrow morning.

Tuesday Nights at... 9 EST still works for these parties?

G-Man wrote: ↑Sun Jan 26, 2020 8:54 pm Good. Now start listening. We demand results night parties!

We will have them!

11 people signed up with the poll, 11 full submissions. Looks like I won't have to extend the deadline!

nutella wrote: ↑Tue Jan 21, 2020 12:50 am 3 and 4 seem very overlapping

Both are songs that are lacking in something. One is complexity, the other is... production value? I tried to keep it open. There can be overlap in these categories if you choose to make it so.
I would consider some things by Malcura to fit the fourth category because they're just two acoustic guitars and a percussionist, but they are certainly complex. (Though some might feel like Malcura has MORE musicians in the band than expected of the genre, YMMV.) Whereas something by Def Leppard would have high production values (at least for the time), a full band behind them, and yet they usually keep things incredibly simple.

JaggedJimmyJay wrote: ↑Fri Jan 17, 2020 4:49 pm Seriously though, "power metal" tends to have that "epic" feel, with a continuous, rolling momentum. There's often but not always a symphonic element. Typically there won't be harsher elements like you'd find in heavier metal instrumentation (thrash or sludge) or vocally (screaming or growling).

e.g. the band Nightwish

Pretty much this. Power Quest, DragonForce, Ayreon, Sonata Arctica, and similar bands come to mind for me.

[mention]birdwithteeth11[/mention] You wanted in this time, right?

[mention]MacDougall[/mention] [mention]DharmaHelper[/mention] [mention]iaafr[/mention] [mention]nutella[/mention] the rest of the peeps from the walrus discord server.

Turnip Head wrote: ↑Fri Jan 17, 2020 2:01 pm 10 has to be a power metal song or was that part a joke?

Category 10 is power metal. The 'perfection' part is the joke accurate.

1. The Spark of Destiny

Once lit, the urge to create cannot be smothered, only coaxed into a full flame. Show me a song that fills you with the desire to create, in ANY form. The inspiration behind that mafia game you made, the song or book you wrote, the trinket you forged. If there was ever a prompt to be creative with, this is it.

2. Singing In The Shower

Where better to practice than under the steamy stream? Not a very good place to bring a guitar, though. Give me your best A Capella song, be it a hymn, a shanty, or something more dynamic.

3. Can It Be That Simple?

Show me a starter song that anyone could pick up an instrument or computer and be a part of, even at the beginner stage. A song you consider simple, but good.

4. Just Getting Started

Wrangling together bandmates is hard. Wrangling together money and a producer is harder. Play me a song that was made by one person, or that had low production values, or that uses less instruments than one would expect from the genre.

5. Homage to the Greats

It doesn't always pay to be original. Sometimes you have to take the ball and roll with it. Give me a cover, parody, remix, or mashup that really shines.

6. Experimental Period

In order to grow as a creator, you need new experiences. Find me something from one of your less-listened-to genres. Good luck.

7. Playing The Crowd

The studio just can't capture energy and return it quite as well as a crowd can. Give me a live performance that easily outshines the album release.

8. Filler Track

Not every song can make it as a single. That doesn't mean they should be forgotten. Give me a song that sits on the same album as a mega-hit, but remains virtually unknown.

9. Flawed Masterpiece

Almost there. Show me a song that could have been perfect, among your favorites, but just has one crippling issue that keeps it from the spotlight.

10. Perfection

Finally, music in its true and perfect form. Every lesson learned has lead to this point, where no artist can progress further. True enlightenment. Give me some POWER METAL.


Rating: If I like it, I rate it high, scale of zero to ten. Theme matters. I have tons of SAW reviews if you want to look at my taste and pander to it, as well as my previous walrus subs for reference. I like humor or troll entries and will rate them high if I consider them clever (and good).

Guidelines: Feel free to be creative. Most of my categories are about the type of song, rather than the theme of it. A consequence of how I think. If you have a song with lyrics or a feeling that thematically fit the 'requirement' of a category (for example a song about a flaws in something almost perfect rather than a song you consider as such), run with it please.

Deadline... how about the 26th? I can extend it if people need more time.