Five Song Friday - October 18th

Friday is here, finally! And with Friday comes the new music I've been listening to this week, so check out the songs and see what tickles your fancy.

1. Casual Affair - Panic! At The Disco
   This song is one of my favorites off of Panic!'s newest album, and for one particular reason; it just sounds cool. From the opening synth to Brendon Urie's slightly distorted and echoing vocals, the song will have you coming back for more with its haunting undertones. The addition of strings, and the striking beat help to further this spooky, yet beautiful nature. If you haven't checked anything out from the album yet, at least try this song. It's a great work from the group. 5/5
2. Bitter Rivals - Sleigh Bells
   Sleigh Bells has such a peculiar sound, and I have grown to love it more and more. I have yet to listen in depth to the new release, but I have found a few songs that I am hooked on, "Bitter Rivals" being one of them. It's combination of acoustic guitar and poppy synths with explosive beats, gritty electric guitars, and intense vocals. The blending of hip-hop, alternative, and pop comes together to create a catchy song with some fantastic arraigning. 5/5
3. Dead American - Anberlin
   This song has got gritty and dirt smeared all over it, but has moments of complete clarity and serenity. It's ethereal nature draws you in, and it's passionate and intimate sound get your blood pumping. The chorus is simple, but definitely catchy, with Stephen Christian screaming that "we want it right, we want it right now", coming off as aggressive, yet urgent. I've listened to this song at least once every day this week, and I absolutely love it. 5/5
4. Can't Hold Us - Pentatonix
   Pentatonix is one of the most talented groups out there, and I love everything the release. This latest single is no exception, with the song choice being simply perfect for the dynamic of the group. Their choice to showcase each member's abilitys throughout the song shows their humility and unity as a team. My favorite part of the song is when they do the horn line a capella, which sounds spot on and powerful. The energy level throughout the song is constant and explosive, making you happy after every listen. 5/5
5. Survival - Eminem
   Eminem's return to rap after his last huge album has been fantastic, plain and simple. His first single, "Bezerk", showed his ability to switch things up, pulling from an 80's influence and coming at the listener hard and fast. "Survival", his next single, is filled with raw passion, and much darker undertones than the first single. His raps are intense and incredible, although sometimes graphic, showing off his mastery of language and ability to rhyme and articulate, The song fires me up with the energy it puts off, and makes me want to get out there and do something. Definitely a worthy purchase if you enjoy his work. 5/5