The Decline of Western Civilization: The Metal Years

Part 2. Out of all the members of Poison CC Deville appears to be the most sincere, but who in the hell knows. The rest of these guys are a sad case of people that seem lost....But it's entertaining! The grime of the scene appears to be floating to the top.

*Their isn't nudity and I hope you wouldn't watch the video in a lame attempt to see "titties."*

Guilty Pleasure!

Cheap Trick - The Flame

Cheap Trick have done many songs that were not cheesy ballads. The band has a quality catalog of great albums which should be listened to. Now with that out of the way, "The Flame" could be considered a Popflop  or a song which you only play in complete solitude. I pick the latter and play it mostly guilt free.

Crash Course: Darby Crash

Darby Crash was the lead singer for the band The Germs. The band were part of the LA Punk scene in the late seventies to early eighties. The Germ's included Pat Smear, (of future Nirvana/Foo Fighter's fame) Lorna Doom, Don Bolles. Darby Crash brought aggression to his music and a conviction that made his songs come to life. Although not the most polished band nor the best, the originality and conviction in the music is inspiring.
Recommend songs:  Lexicon Devil, Ritchie Dagger's Crime, Manimal, Lion's Share, Forming, What We Do Is Secret, Caught in My Eye, No God, Round and Round.


Darby Crash died on December 7, 1980 from an intentional drug overdose.

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Pixies - Velouria. The Pixies had many good albums and songs, so picking just one has proven to be a bit of a challenge. The task has been completed and I decided for this song which is on the ever- awesome Bossanova album. You owe it to yourself to listen to this band and become immersed in their greatness.

Queen - Nevermore. If I were to compile a list of the saddest most heartbreaking songs ever recorded, Nevermore would be at the top. It oozes the pain of being alone and a feeling of utter isolation. If you suffer from depression it should be advised that you don't listen to this song.

The Decline of Western Civilization: The Metal Years

Part 1. Upon watching this glorious masterpiece of film it appears the line has been drawn. Apparently their is a difference between the "metals." Factor in statements by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons and you are intellectually (insert sarcasm) enlightened. This film is funny, sad, captivating and interesting. I will be including all parts over the next day(s) or week. Many thanks to the person that uploaded this nugget.

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

The Jam - Going Underground. My ideal  music video: 3 guys and instruments. Paul Weller and Co. are a band that has stood the test of time. Lyrics that are fresh and creative with style belonging only to them. Absolutely love it.

Husker Du  - Pink Turns To Blue. You do not have to be a "punker" or have any other title to listen to Husker. They made music that everyone could enjoy and should enjoy. Awesome song for in the car, possibly mowing the lawn and baking a cake.

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Pantera - Hellbound. Have you ever wanted to go on a vacation? Maybe somewhere warm? Well, click the video above and enjoy the 2:41 from the daily grind and remember sun screen!

King Crimson - Epitaph. It surprises me at how few people know about KC and the power they possess. The band was unique in their approach musically and lyrically. A visceral experience.

"Confusion will be my epitaph
As I crawl a cracked and broken path.
If we make it we can all sit back and laugh
But I fear tommorrow I will crying
Yes, I feel tomorrow I will be crying."

The song is truly uplifting. Amen.

Comments or music recommendations are always welcome.
madraymusic@gmail.com  

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Suede - Trash. I'm sure people would argue it isn't their best tune, but it was always one of  my favorites. The video isn't worth watching maybe minimizing the vid you could capture the "feeling."

New York Dolls - Trash. Every time I listen to this song it amazes me of the musicianship of the band. People tend to just focus on what they wore( Glam or Punk), but man the playing was great. Johnny Thunders guitar riffs, how  could you go wrong? I love the backing vocals, tasteful and superb.

(These are obviously not covers of each respected song, but share a similarity song titles.)

Planes, Trains and John Candy

John Candy always brings a smile to my face. He had a charming and lovable quality that seemed to make the rainiest days magically turn to sunny one's. Re- watching old movies starring John make the loss of a great comedic actor even more saddening. I've included a few clips from one of my favorite movies Planes, Trains and Automobiles.

I never found this part laugh out funny, but John Candy' acting skills are great and truly capture the moment.

 For more John Candy -- http://www.johncandy.com/

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Rachmaninov - Piano Concerto #2 MVT. 2. Played by Evgeny Kissin. I'm not a fanatic of  all classical music, although I enjoy certain pieces immensely. Truly beautiful and a true heart breaker. Mr. Kissin pours his soul into playing this piece.

Eric Carmen - All By Myself. If you listen to both of these songs you'll hear a similarity. Is it a blatant rip off? Or a homage to that master of piano?

Crash Course: Phil Lynott

Phil Lynott was a singer/songwriting and bass player for the band Thin Lizzy. The band had success with songs such as "The Boys Are Back In Town" and "Jailbreak." They were a formidable force in Rock music and influenced many artists. After the demise of Thin Lizzy, Phil Lynott still recorded music and released a solo album, and sang vocals on one of Gary Moore's albums. Phil Lynott's amazing voice, solid bass playing  and superb writing skills will be forever missed and his contribution to Rock music unmatched. Recommend songs: Borderline, Wild One, Dear Lord, That Woman's Gonna Break Your Heart, Still In Love With You, Fighting My Way Back, Cowboy Song, Old Flame, Romeo and the Lonely Girl, Fight or Fall, Got to Give It Up, Waiting for an Alibi, Parisienne Walkways.

Phil Lynott died January 4, 1986 from pneumonia and organ failure.

Bad Taste.

(The Great Zombie Killer(Glen Danzig) vs. The Great Tank Top Killer?) Ding, ding, ding! After watching this video I realized the big dude is justified in his actions. Although, I would not hit anyone so quickly it was clearly self-defense. It's a shame Glen Danzig would just start pushing this guy and stop trying to work through the problem without resorting to physical violence. 

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Sid Vicious (Sex Pistols) - My Way. This song appears on the video "The Great Rock N Roll Swindle." It is an interesting video and quite different, check it out. Sid Vicious never impressed me with his sonic aptitude, but he had energy and did raunchy well. This is one of his better recordings and if you like sloppy fun, you'll like this.

GWAR - The Salaminizer. This nugget is off GWAR'S "Scumdog of the Universe" album. It is the first track from album and certainly has curious lyrics. The opening riff is pure metal awesomeness. Overall song is fun, but if you take the time to listen or read to the lyrics, you'll be amused or disgusted.

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Nekromantix - Nekrofelia. Although not my favorite subject matter you cannot deny a quality song regardless of lyrical content. A "Psychobilly" band formed in Copenhagen, Denmark they bring a style that is refreshing.

Gene Vincent & His Blue Caps - Race With The Devil. Gene Vincent was a decent singer, but Cliff Gallup's guitar playing is phenomenal. The song showcases his guitar playing (two excellent solo's.) he was just as important to early Rock n Roll as say, Scotty Moore and James Burton. Great band.

Speaking of Scotty Moore the man stills signs autographs! You can purchase them here (I have):

http://www.scottymoore.net/forsale.html 


The autographed photo's are great. 

Vinyl Madness!

It has been awhile since I wrote about recently purchased vinyl, and with good reason; I haven't been able to go  "record hunting" at yard sales, until today. I managed to buy one record, a brilliant record by any standard.Though I would prefer a Buddy Holly album that wasn't all greatest hits this was a awesome find and brought a smile to my face. Buddy Holly is a must whether it is vinyl or not and a good starter for anyone new to his music.

Issued: 1978 Label: MCA

Standout tracks - That'll Be the Day, It's So Easy, Raining in My Heart, True Love Ways, Think It Over, Honestly just play the record from start to finish.

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Elliott Smith - The Biggest Lie. Possibly one of the most heart wrenching songs in existent and the video compounds the melancholy. Elliott Smith was a wonderful lyricist and played the guitar to compliment his style. Truly amazing.

Devocthka - You Love Me. From the opening strum of the acoustic guitar, to Nick Urata's vocals. Every time I play this song I imagine myself riding a donkey into the sunset...On another note, the bands name is Russian for girl.

10 Days of Sabbath!

1: Children of the Grave

The first time I heard this song it sent my ears into orbit. A masterful metal song, and the lyrics fit the riffage exceptionally well. "Revolution in their minds..." Blast it!

                                                            Rainbow power!

10 Days of Sabbath!

2: The Writ

Technically speaking, not the heaviest Sabbath song, but what it lacks for in terms of sheer power it makes up   for with lyrical content and  a melodic breakdown. The song oozes honesty and it is natural to find a connection with a singer/songwriter that blends these elements into a quality song.  

Click it.

Bad Taste.

This is the famous incident when Axl punched a member of the audience in the face over a camera. It incited a riot afterwards because the band left the stage due to Axl of course. I will give Mr.Rose a bit of credit since he jumps into the crowd to retrieve the camera, but he should of stayed and played for the rest of the fans that weren't using a camera.

Guilty Pleasure!

The Commodores - Easy

The chipmunk has seemed to pop back into my life recently. This song has been stuck in my head, and yes, I 'm guilty of listening to it more then once. Though I prefer the cover version of Faith No More sometimes the epic cheesiness of the orignal is all you need.

Comments welcome!

10 Days of Sabbath!

3: Supernaut

Man, this song has such an infectious guitar riff it just blows my mind. Tony Iommi's guitar sound and energy are great. The overall band all seem to be on overdrive, maybe it was the snow? Bill Wards drumming, though sounding as it was recorded in a tin can, is top quality. Supernaut is a fun Sabbath song and great for picnics on the lake.

Crash Course: Layne Staley

Layne Staley was a singer/song writer for the band Alice in Chains. The band released their first album "Facelift" which became a successful album with the help of the single "Man in the Box." Alice in Chains maintained their popularity during the early ninties, and Layne did other side projects, Mad Season being one of them. Layne Staley had battled drug addiction for many years and the band went on a permanent hiatus. Layne had a remarkable voice, and it will be missed. Recommened songs - Nutshell, Rain When I Die, We Die Young, Junkhead, Love, Hate, Love, Down In A Hole, Confusion, Shame In You, Got Me Wrong,  I Stay Away, and finally the Mad Season album which is a must own for any rock fan. 

Layne Staley died of a drug overdose on April 5, 2002

10 Days of Sabbath!

4: Black Sabbath

I always found this song creepy, but in awe at the originality of the music. Given when the album/song was released (1970) it is a impressive feat for any band to be this unique in style and tonality. Black Sabbath is a song that doesn't sound dated and worthy of any record collection.

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Fantomas - Experiment in Terror. Fantomas are a super group of sorts since the band consists of: Mike Patton,( Faith No More) Dave "God Sticks" Lombardo (Slayer), Buzz Osbourne (Melvins), and last, but not least Trevor Dunn. Dunn was associated with Mike Patton through Mr. Bungle. You find this song on The Director's Cut, which is amazing.

Superjoint Ritual - The Alcoholik. . Great band and heavy as all hell. You may recognize the singer and his vicious scream. After that inspiring video I believe a vodka is in order. Is that a Green Devil or a Leprechaun?

10 Days of Sabbath!

5: Symptoms of the Universe

Symptoms of the Universe appeared on the album "Sabatoge" and the version on their is excellent. But the live version is simply put, a damn metal grenade. It is a raw and a bit sloppy, but the energy is infectious.

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Ninja's, fat troll, and shitty special effects = Kick ass music video. I always enjoyed this song, and it is a late tribute.

Dwarves - Wish That I Was Dead.  The way to summarize them is catchy, and not to be taken too serious punk band. I always found it funny, but some people seem to be offended quite easily. This is a perfect example of the Dwarves. I'm a fan of Del Shannon and this song is dedicated to him, go figure...

Comments welcome!

10 Days of Sabbath!

6: Heaven and Hell

What a refreshing change for Sabbath, though many would disagree. Dio added a different element and style to the overall band. I noticed Tony Iommi solo's much more which is always a bonus. Just awesome!

It's Just A Ride.

Mostly I write about music I enjoy, but at certain times what people simply say without instruments is just as beautiful, if not as empowering.  If conviction in words was a knife, this cuts. Thank you Bill Hicks, a true rock star.

Comments welcome.

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Faith No More - Eveything's Ruined. Mike Patton is a great singer and wonderfully different in what he does (Fantomas for example) this song is no exception. The band overall were  unique, but somehow under appreciated. It is a refreshing song to listen to that seems to break away from the conventional sound  of  rock songs.

Pulp - Pink Glove. Speaking of being unique  Pulp fit that to a t. Jarvis Cocker represented the geek like no other. Great arrangments and even better lyrics as Jarvis could sing awkward, sad, and happy in one song. If you need a musical spark Pulp could be the answer.

Comments welcome!

10 Days of Sabbath!

7: Electric Funeral

Not Sabbath's heaviest song, but a cringe worthy ride of doom. Muwahaha <---> The wah - wah infused guitar and Ozzy's creepy delivery make for nice musical ride. During the middle of the song when the tempo lifts off it is all perfect. Great song for a wedding.

Comments welcome!

Photo Hammer.

Good Ol' Jim
This picture describes what music should be in the most simplest form, awesome.  

Jim Croce - Photographs and Memories 

Music! Mayhem! Madness!

Alice in Chains - Nutshell. I never understood how AIC were labeled a GruDgE band. They had a sound that reminded me more of Black Sabbath then say, Pearl Jam? The band also wrote a few slow numbers such as this soul melting, tear flowing song. Rest in Peace, Mr. Stanley.

Aria - Angel Dust. Aria is a Russian metal band who play some fine tunes. The album cover is classic, the sound is tight, and the guy sings like a Dio/Dickinson combo.  The language barrier is a bit of a drag, but good music always prevails. I will be checking out more of their albums. 

Comments welcome!

10 Days of Sabbath!

8: Into the Void

This song is heavy, heavy, heavy. The opening guitar riff is truly masterful and the band shines as a whole. It grinds along in a sludgetastic way that leaves you hypnotized. I have to wonder what Tony Iommi and the rest of the band were thinking while recording this unstoppable force of sound.

Comments welcome!

10 Days of Sabbath!

9: Megalomania

This album is completely different then previous Sabbath albums, but that is what makes it so awesome. As for this particular song, it is a spaced out jam. Starting off on a mental free fall, and then turning into something that strangely sounds like this.

Comments welcome!

10 Days of Sabbath!

10: It's Alright

Wow. How dare I pick a song off Technical Ecstasy. They say this album is a mish- mash of shit, but I generally enjoy some parts of it, and I find it refreshing that Bill Ward tries to be a sentimental kinda rocker. On a side note, Axl Rose ruins the song...Check Here!

Comments welcome!