Five Song Friday - January 31st

It's Friday and that means it's time for a new installment of the Five Song Friday series. It's been a busy week for me, but I hope everyone has had good and productive weeks. As with every week, I have found more music to bring to you, the readers, that I want to tell you about since I've been listening it all week long. Check the songs out, and see what you enjoy!

1. Own It - Drake
   I've been on a bit of a Drake kick the past few weeks (if you've been reading, you probably noticed), and this song is continuing that trend. I discovered it after finally listening to all of Nothing Was The Same, Drake's latest release, and instantly was hooked. The atmospheric nature inspires smoke filled rooms and cruising downtown late at night. It has some great contrasting moments, with the movement from the synth driven and percussion-less sections to the beat-heavy and rap driven drops creating variations of intensity and emotion. The more I listen to Drake's latest record, the more I regret not listening to it all sooner. The instrumental on this song is one of my favorite from a rap track, and Drake employs a balanced mix of rapping and singing that is a common theme throughout the album. It might just be one of those songs I listen to intensely for a few weeks and then forget about, but I highly doubt that right now. 5/5
2. Say It Ain't So - Weezer
   I had heard this song before, but just recently got it and the rest of the album a couple weeks ago from a friend. This song is easily one of my favorites, with the smooth and subtle verses shifting into the guitar driven and more intense choruses. It's insane to think about the fact that this song is 20 years old, but a testament to how good it is that people are still listening to it after all this time. This song comes from a time where autotune and the likes hadn't quite seeped into the music industry, and it's refreshing to listen to something not quite so polished and clean. It's got a gritty quality that feels authentic and natural, and that's one of the many reasons it's still being played today. 5/5 
3. In No Time - Mutemath
   I also got this album curtesy of a friend, and was overall pleased with it. Personally, I didn't think it was up to the standard of their self-titled album, but it had a few stand outs, like this song. It's a soft song that starts with some synth and vocals, and slowly expands into something bigger. The build is not intense, and the climax doesn't inspire anything epic, but it's a satisfying build nonetheless. It's something you can fall asleep to, but not something that puts you to sleep. Mellow would be a good description, but without the negative connotations that come along with that word. It is otherworldly, but not like Angels & Airwaves. If you enjoy Mutemath, then this song is a hidden gem waiting to burst forth. 5/5
4. We Follow (Stereotypes Remix) - From Indian Lakes
   When I discovered that From Indian Lakes had a remix EP, I was fairly surprised to be honest. If you've ever heard their music, then you'll know that it isn't the kind of music you listen to and think, "Hey, this would be good with electronic dance beats and distorted synths." However, I was quick to reverse my judgement thanks to this song. The original (click here for a link) and this are dramatically different, but this remix brings out an intensity that was present in the song but not in the forefront. Their overall sound is bare, with minimal instrumentals and a more folky and indie influence. I enjoy this remix because it brings out sounds and ideas that you wouldn't have originally connected with From Indian Lakes, but it works. 5/5
5. Elevated - State Champs
   I got this song in a free compilation download, and I'm in love with it. It's Pop-Punk to the core, giving the listener 3 and a half minutes of energy, fun, and vulnerability. I've said it before, but one of my favorite traits of Pop-Punk is its ability to be raw and honest, not covering things up with eloquence but instead saying it like it is. It's refreshing, and makes it incredibly easy to connect with the music. This song in particular is catchy and upbeat, but not in an obnoxious way. The lyrics aren't completely happy, but they're not depressing either; they paint the situation like it is. I really enjoy the vocals, which have found a great balance between melodic and gritty. Overall, it's a great song from a band who I'm definitely going to be giving more attention in the future. 5/5

Five Song Friday - January 24th

Hey everyone, happy Friday! It's time for another installment of Five Song Friday. I've been slowing down on the holiday music buying spree, but have still found plenty of songs to fall in love with. I've included video links again this week, so check out this week's tunes and see what you like. As always, thanks for reading!

1. Anything Could Happen - Ellie Goulding
   I had heard Ellie Goulding's works before, but was never incredibly impressed. That was, however, until I heard this song. Something about it's ethereal sound grabbed me, for it wasn't what I was expecting from what I had heard of her songs. It doesn't sound like anything I've heard, bringing in dance and pop to create an upbeat and echoing ride. It's not set at a fast tempo, and that works in it's favor, setting it apart by taking things a bit slowly. The build up to each chorus gets me every time, with Ellie chanting "Anything Could Happen" over and over until the song erupts in electronic drum beats and huge synths. I also really enjoy the bridge, which is another build consisting of one single line and a more acoustic sounding drum beat that offers some contrast to the heavy electronic influence. It's an underrated song from Ellie, and definitely worth checking out. 
2. We Are In Love - Cider Sky
   This song was a discovery I made thanks to iTunes Radio, which is slowly becoming my new favorite online streaming/radio service. It is very pop-oriented, with electronic beats, low-key synths, and clean guitar lines that come together to make a very easy listening experience for the ears. It also has an ethereal sound to it, but in a way that makes you think of the vastness of a remote forest or mountains. The song has a definite cute factor to it, thanks to the cheesiness of the romance the lyrics contain. The title is a dead giveaway to the nature of the song, but it doesn't come off as overrated or boring. It is a refreshing take on a love song that doesn't sound like mainstream pop and doesn't follow the same lyrical vein of pop music. 5/5
3. The Language - Drake
   I'm starting to regret not paying as much attention to Drake's latest release, Nothing Was The Same, when it first released. "The Language" is a more harder hitting song than some of the others I've really grown to like, but that's exactly why I like it. It's definitely got a swagger to it, with the way that the beat isn't so straightforward, almost feeling like it's going to be late. Drake does his singing/rapping thing a bit here, but he sticks more to normal rapping that adds to the song's swagger. Now, if you're not one for foul language, then this song is probably not for you, but I think that it's part of what adds to the more harsh atmosphere. This song also has a really good baseline, with low and deep bass beats that resound on the speakers that it's played on. If you like Drake, J. Cole, or Childish Gambino, then this song is a fit for you. 5/5 
4. Hurricane - The Fray
   The Fray has been a very consistent band, in terms of staying true to themselves and the tone and ideas they put across. Their sound has changed a bit over the years, but the core of who they are has remained. "Hurricane", for instance, is a respectable song about a girl, which is something that The Fray has done before, but this song contains an electronic element that they haven't tried before. It definitely has a radio-friendly sound, but again, that is consistent to what they have done before. The presence of a more prominent bass guitar and the electronic synth line catches your ear and draws you in. A perfect combination of The Fray's more innocent sound with a modern-pop influence creates this flashy and catchy song, and makes me more excited to hear the rest of the record. 5/5
5. Crystallized - Young The Giant
   I've been waiting for Young The Giant's latest release, and when it did drop, this was one of the songs that stuck out to me upon first listen. It somewhat has a more relaxed vibe, but also contains elements that kick things into high gear. From the first howl that Sameer lets out in the opening moments of the song, you can just tell that the song is going to be a fast-paced ride from start to end. The verses quiet things down a bit, but the chorus manages to be intense in the instrumental but very smooth and flowing in the vocals. Young The Giant has shifted their sound a bit since their last release, and this shift includes a more pronounced use of synths and electronic elements. I think this was a great stylistic move, for it complements their organic sound very well. The energy of this song can't be resisted, and it'll be playing in your head after just one listen. 5/5

Five Song Friday - January 17th

Welcome to the latest Five Song Friday! This week was my first back to college after winter break and was some of your first weeks back as well, so I hope things have been going well with new classes and schedules. I've been needing some music to fuel me throughout the week and these songs are some of the tracks I've been listening to nonstop. Check them out and see which ones you like!

1. Dark Horse (feat. Juicy J) - Katy Perry
   I know I've had a lot of Katy Perry lately, but that's because I really love some of her new stuff. This song is one of the more known tracks from her latest album, Prism, and after a listen I think you'll see why. It's got hip-hop elements, it's darker (and from the title, that's not a surprise), and it's sexy. Katy Perry's vocals on this song are some of her strongest, with seduction and a hint of danger dripping from her voice that draws you in. She gets fairly high up, but also stays in her lower register a fair amount, which really adds to the romantic nature of the song. Now, while I love Katy Perry, I am not a big fan of Juicy J and I personally think his rap holds this song back from being truly fantastic. It's just too simplistic and lacks an element of creativity that would make it pop and shine. Overall, however, this song is one of my favorites from her album, and I would highly recommend it. 5/5
2. A Part Of Me (feat. Laura Whiteside) - Neck Deep
   I found this song thanks to some good friends of mine in Dear Misguided who did a cover of this song (check it out here), and I've been hooked since. It's soft in terms of instrumentation, but the vocals bring the raw vulnerability that I've grown to expect and love from pop-punk songs. The vocals aren't polished and perfect, but the gritty and screamy nature is part of the appeal. It's honest, unlike some pop stars who use autotune and editing to come out with the perfect sound and I think that's what resonates most with the listeners, even if they don't know that. Another aspect I love are the guest vocals from Laura Whiteside, who provides that pretty and soft side that balances out the more raw vocals. All in all, this is definitely a great song to pick up if you like acoustic pop-punk from groups like The Story So Far, The Wonder Years, and Man Overboard. 5/5
3. Live For The Night - Krewella
   I've been delving more into Krewella's material, and this song is definitely becoming one of my favorites as of late. The slow build in the beginning acts as a great contrast to the huge nature it takes on as the song kicks into gear. This song is not terribly gritty, but sticks to a more club/rave type of vibe, which definitely works. There is one part that is a short breakdown section that has some more dirty synths that also add some contrast to the more upbeat nature of the rest of the song. Krewella's vocals are one of my favorite aspects of the group, and what I think sets them apart from some of the other artists in their genre. All in all, I'm becoming more impressed with their work as I listen to it, so expect more to pop up in the coming weeks. 
4. Sparks Will Fly (feat. Jhene Akio) - J. Cole
   My sister actually showed me this song and I was hooked from the first time that I heard it. It has J. Cole's signature rapping and instrumental, but adds in the soft nature of the up and coming Jhene Akio. J. Cole has distanced himself from most rappers today with his realistic lyrics and meaningful nature. Some of his songs can sound like the typical banter, but he gets into the real world issues of relationships in his own life. This song is about a fading relationship that both sides are struggling to work through. He admits many times that he isn't perfect and that he won't achieve that any time soon, but that relationships that are meant to last will have ups and downs due to our imperfections. It hasn't been widely noticed, but it's definitely worth checking out if you like J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, or Drake. 5/5
5. If We Only - Red
   I've liked Red for a while now, but I have to admit that I wasn't impressed with their lead single for their latest album, Release The Panic. Now, a mediocre single is no reason to dismiss an album completely, and while I didn't listen to most of the songs, I recently found this song and had to listen again and again to check that it really was that good. It embodies the heavy nature that Red does so well, with screams woven between clean vocals over hard hitting drums and roaring guitars. This is them at their best, and the chorus for this song might be one of their best to date. It expands beyond where the verses let you think the song can go, and becomes this huge and epic anthem. I was very surprised to find it, and it gives me hope for the rest of the songs on the album. 5/5

Five Song Friday - January 10th

Hey all, it's another Friday and that means a new installment of Five Song Friday. Another week has gone by, and I've found more music! Which is not surprising at all! This week had a bit of a dance/EDM vibe going on, so check out the songs I've been listening to and see if any are your cup of tea. 

1. Killin' It - Krewella
   When it comes to dance/EDM music, I tend to like the heavier sounding stuff, and this song definitely fits that description. It's on the darker side and has some great wobbles in the chorus that are full of gritty distortion. The beginning verse sets the tone for the song with just vocals, but the chorus really kicks things into high gear with a drop that you can't help but grin and bob your head. This is probably Krewella's heaviest song and, in my opinion, one of their best songs. 5/5
2. A Thousand Miles - Dream On Dreamer
   Yes, I know that this is a cover of THAT song, but this is actually a really good version. The piano intro is deceiving, because it soon drops into a fast paced rock song that mixes clean and unclean vocals perfectly. These back and forth vocals add a level of depth, both in sound and emotionally. The idea of screaming in a song like this might seem unorthodox, but it creates a level of desperation that makes the song even better. I laughed the first time I heard this song, but I've learned to love it, in all of it's ridiculousness. 5/5
3. Thunder - W&W
   I discovered this song a while ago, but finally got it recently after listening to it a few times again. It is a little slow in the beginning, but eventually picks up into a fantastic dance tune, with a drop that makes you want to dance (even if you can't). It is very similar to "LRAD" by Knife Party, which is part of the reason why it appeals to me a lot. It's simple in instrumentation, but that's what creates the draw for the song. 5/5
4. Furthest Thing - Drake
   I've always thought Drake had some talent, and his latest release is a clear indication that I was right in this assumption. He really shines on the slower, more thoughtful songs, and this song is definitely one of those. It also is one of the few songs that he sings most of the time, which helps create a softer tone that is welcome amongst the hardness that seems to be necessary to thrive in the world of hip-hop. Drake seems to be more willing to talk about things other than sleeping with girls and butts and all that crap. The song overall is a welcome break from the clamor of rap on the radio. 5/5
5. Stay The Night (feat. Hayley Williams) - Zedd
   This song took a little while to grow on me, but it definitely is catchy. The beginning is actually pretty beautiful, before the beat and synths really kick in, with just the vocals and piano. Hayley Williams' voice makes this song as good as it is, although Zedd has a knack for creating great instrumentals. Hayley soars pretty high on some of the parts, but also has a really full sounding low end that is hard to find in the music business. Zedd's music is a bit more upbeat than I usually go for, but I can't help but smile and enjoy his songs. 5/5

Five Song Friday - January 3rd

Happy New Year all! I hope you all celebrated safely, and are hard at work on those resolutions you made. A New Year means new music, and here's some of the tunes I've found this week.

1. Dead & Buried - A Day To Remember
   One of the hardest hitting songs of Common Curtesy, "Dead & Buried" is one of my favorite songs by the group to date. It's intense, but the chorus is simultaneous catchy and melancholy. It's everything that ADTR has come to mean; their instrumentals are full of crunching guitars and pounding drums, while Jeremy McKinnon lets out growls and screams that are full of angst and sorrow. The opening riff is my favorite part, and it's thankfully repeated throughout the song. Even though the riff is one chord repeated again an again, it works in this case. I also like when it comes back in the bridge and is accompanied by backing gang vocals that makes it even better. Definitely a great song to check out from ADTR's latest album. 5/5
2. Silhouettes - Of Monsters And Men
   I really enjoy the sound that Of Monsters And Men has going on. Their debut CD was stellar, and this song for the soundtrack of Catching Fire continues that fine musicianship. It's easily one of my favorite songs off the album, and one of my favorite songs by the group. The back and forth nature of their vocals are mesmerizing, both of them playing off of each other. It's one of the most drawing aspects of their sound. I also enjoy the instrumentation they use, with the pace of the song picking up and slowing down in an instant. It's a solid track, and one I recommend getting. 5/5 
3. Trees - Twenty One Pilots
   I finally got the rest of this album, and this song was a stand out from the rest by far. With a synth leading and the addition of some 8-bit effects, this track slowly builds into a huge fist-pumping anthem. It begins slower, but when it unfolds, it has the signature quirkiness that I've come to see from Twenty One Pilots. This song is especially fantastic at the end, when Tyler Joseph begins to yell and scream over the gritty synths and the drums that have almost a tribal sound to them. This is definitely an underrated track from these talented guys. 5/5
4. From Time (feat. Jhene Akio) - Drake
   I discovered this song yesterday, and can't get enough of it. Drake does some good songs, and this is one of his best (at least I think). The laid-back feel of the instrumental and the guest vocals provided by Jhene Akio create a though-provoking and cool atmosphere. Drake muses about love and relationships in this current age over a killer beat, resulting in a memorable track. The outro is a bit odd, with the sampled speech feeling a little out of place, but it does not take away from the overall greatness of the song. If you like Drake, then you'll definitely like this song off his latest album. 5/5
5. Arabella - Arctic Monkeys
   The Arctic Monkeys have a peculiar sound, which I think mainly comes from lead singer Alex Turner's vocals, which are unique and entrancing. This song is much more intense than "Do I Want To Know?", and had much more of an edge to it. It doesn't seem that way from the start, but the moment that the first chorus hits is electrifying. I really enjoy the instrumental after each chorus, which is got a old-fashioned rock 'n roll vibe that you have to just tap your foot along with. It's a song that you'll want to play in your car as you drive down the road and have a blast. At it's core, it's a fun song, and a great buy. 5/5

Top 10 Albums of 2013

2013 was an absolutely solid year for music. Some releases were unexpected releases, some were highly anticipated, and some were much better than expected. All in all, there were plenty of great records that made their debut this year, and I was very pleased and surprised with a lot of them. So, as a way to change things up and have some variety for the blog, I've compiled a list of my top 10 albums, although they are not in an order; that would be far too difficult to figure out. Instead, I've listed them below with some of my thoughts about each, as well as a song or two that really stood out.

My Top Albums of 2013:

1. 30 Seconds To Mars - Love Lust Faith + Dreams
   Even though I knew that 30 Seconds To Mars took their time to make their albums and that a new one would be coming soon, this album completely took me by surprise, both with its release and its quality. I am definitely willing to continue to wait for their albums if they keep being this fantastic. It was an epic fantasy thriller, a wild ride of music that soared and rumbled. It was filled with songs that could stand alone and be excellent for radio, but the beauty of the album was how it played as a whole. With songs flowing right into others and wonderful instrumentals in-between, Love Lust Faith + Dreams was a soundtrack to an incredible story that 30 Seconds To Mars told with raw emotion and furious passion. The result is one of the best albums of the year, and probably my favorite album by them to date.
   My Favorite Songs: Birth & Bright Lights
2. Paramore - Paramore
   Now this was an album I had been waiting a while for. After suffering the loss of two of their founding members, the world waited to see what Paramore would do. With this album, they sure got their response. The self-titled release from the group revealed a revitalized and energized sound that came in with an explosion and showed everyone that Paramore was not dead and gone. In fact, they came back better than ever, with a branching out of sound and styles that revealed the band's maturity and moving on from the past. With a balance of fun-natured tunes and more hard-hitting jams, Paramore is a pleasure to listen to from beginning to end. Songs like "Still Into You", "Ain't It Fun", and "Fast In My Car" show off the ability of the band to live life and enjoy it, while tracks like "Part II", "Now", and "Future" reveal that they acknowledge the hard things in life, and are willing to take them on. This album was even better than I expected, and I can't wait to see what they do in the future.
   My Favorite Songs: Part II & Future
3. OneRepublic - Native
   After some delays, OneRepublic finally hit the public scene again this year with an album that very much surprised me. The leading single, "Feel Again", didn't catch my interest as much, but as I listened to the album when it released, I was incredibly impressed. Even though it took longer than expected, the result was a polished and solid record that was worth the wait. OneRepublic took their pop sound from the last record and made it even bigger, with songs like "Counting Stars", "If I Lose Myself", and "Life In Color" ready to hit stadiums and airwaves alike. Even though it was a pop-based album, they still brought in some other elements to help create stunningly beautiful tracks like "Can't Stop" and "Au Revior". "Can't Stop" is heart-broken lyrics over echoing hip-hop beats that comes together to become a huge cry of desperation, and "Au Revoir" is brooding about what ifs over moving string and piano lines to create a haunting piece. Not everything on the album is spectacular, but nothing on the album is bad. You can hear the quality and hard-work that went into this record, and I think they did a grand job, expanding their previous pop sound and incorporating other ideas and sounds that made the album a diverse piece of art.
   My Favorite Songs: Can't Stop & What You Wanted
4. Oblivion - M83
   For me personally, this has to be the most surprising album on the list. I had never really listened to M83 and hadn't seen Oblivion, but my dad and I watched it near the end of the summer. Not only was I entranced by the movie, but the soundtrack had me hooked the more the movie went on. I hadn't fallen in love with a soundtrack like that since Tron: Legacy. I personally think the combination of classical sounds with electronic elements makes for stunning music, and this is one of those cases. It is much less electronic than Tron: Legacy, but it is just as intricate and visual. The huge soundscapes bring the mind the huge landscapes of the movie, and capture the intensity of the movie within the notes. It's also fantastic in that while the songs flow together flawlessly, they are identifiable as single songs, which is something I find hard to notice with classical film scores. Songs like "Earth 2077", "Starwaves", and "Jack's Dream" are all tracks that I can easily identify from start to end. It's soundtracks like this that make movies come to life, and give them another dimension that allows viewers to connect even more with the movies they love. 
5. Fall Out Boy - Save Rock And Roll
   Fall Out Boy. The band that took the world by storm. Again. After a brief and vibrant hiatus, Fall Out Boy came back with an explosion that shook everywhere. They dropped their first album since 2008, an album that revealed the change that they went through while they were gone and the sound they wanted to make. They were able to record away from the world, away from expectations, and what resulted was one of their best albums. They changed their sound, yes, but thats what happens when bands grow up. They grow out of things, and this is the case. From the first single, "My Songs Know What You Did In The Dark (Light Em Up)", I knew this album was going to be something special. People have complained that the title of the album, Save Rock and Roll, is not an accurate description of the sound; they say it sounds too pop-influenced. What people forget, however, is that rock 'n roll isn't about guitars with distortion and a driving drumset. Rock 'n roll is about taking chances, about doing something that isn't expected, about going on a ledge and taking a leap of faith. That's exactly what Fall Out Boy did with this album; no one expected them to put synths and electronic beats and hip-hop influence in their music, but that's exactly what they did. It's polished, it's radio friendly, and it's rock 'n roll. I had never been a huge fan of FOB, but I've gotten hooked for sure now.
   My Favorite Songs: My Songs Know What You Did In The Dark (Light Em Up) & Save Rock and Roll
6. Jimmy Eat World - Damage
   This was one of those albums I was not expecting to like as much as I did. I found out it was releasing a few weeks before it did, took an initial listen and didn't think much of it. I must have not been paying much attention on the first go round, however, because I tried it again a few days later and ended up buying the whole album after a few listens. I have always loved Bleed American, and I think they've struggled since then to make something that is at that same level; this is the album that finally did it. It's a bit more grown up than their earlier sound, but they found a way to channel the same energy and emotion that they had in the beginning of their career into this album. Songs like "Damage", "How'd You Have Me", and "No, Never" show they still have the ability to create upbeat anthems that could connect with fans, while songs like "Book of Love", "I Will Steal You Back", and "Byebyelove" show that rawness and darker undertones are not out of reach as these guys have aged. The album has a less polished sound than their last release, and I think it's that difference that made this album so much better. It felt a lot less forced, and much more natural for the group. It was the surprise hit of the summer for me, and renewed my faith in the band to create fantastic music like Bleed American.
   My Favorite Songs: Book of Love & Byebyelove
7. Justin Timberlake - The 20/20 Experience
   JT came back this year, and he came back with a bang. After only recording for close to three weeks, he came out with 21 songs and two albums of pop gold. From the hip-hop beats to the throwback influence and extended songs everywhere, The 20/20 Experience spans genres and sounds to create one of the best records of the year, and one of the best in a long time. It all began with "Suit & Tie", the single that turned some away but put JT back in the spotlight. Part 1 was a huge success, being one of the top selling albums thanks to songs like "Pusher Love Girl", "Tunnel Vision", and "Mirrors". While those songs were the most pop and radio friendly, there were plenty of other songs that ventured into other genres, such as the jungle/exotic "Don't Hold The Wall" or the latin-influenced "Let The Groove Get In". The world was incredibly impressed with JT's comeback, but Part 1 wasn't the end; Part 2 hit the world a few months later, and I personally thought it was even better. Songs like "Take Back The Night", "TKO", and "Cabaret" are ready to hit the airwaves with glossy hooks, big band backings, and JT's incredible vocals. Others like "True Blood" and "Drink You Away" come off with different vibes, with the former channeling Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and the later dabbling in country. All in all, these albums presented some killer songs that show JT's power to dominate the music scene. Out of all the recent comebacks, this has to be one of those at the top. 
8. Panic! At The Disco - Too Weird To Live, Too Rare To Die
   Panic has been up and down over the years, breaking out into the music scene with a new sound, losing half of their group, and coming back again stronger than ever. This album is no exception to their constant change of sound. This album draws on the 80's and electronic and comes out with a solid collection of songs. The opening "This Is Gospel" is one of the best songs Panic has ever done, with a energizing beat fueling high soaring vocals and roaring guitars. The intensity this song brought was continued throughout the album, on songs like "Miss Jackson", "Vegas Lights", and "Casual Affair". The band got in touch with its pop side as well with low-key "Girls/Girls/Boys" and makes-you-feel-like-you're-in-the-80's "Collar Full". The one song on the CD that is completely different from the rest is "The End Of All Things", a haunting and dark piano tune that makes you stop and truly listen. It is easily my favorite from the album, and possibly one of my favorite songs of all time. It reveals the true potential of the group, with its chilling vibe and utter beauty. With this album, Panic not only has one of the best albums of the year, but continues to show that they are not going down without a fight. 
9. Linkin Park - Recharged
   Even though this album was a remix album, it was full of some of the best remixes I've ever heard, some of which came up to the par of the originals. It's been a while since Linkin Park did a remix album, with Reanimation coming out in 2002, but they did a fantastic job picking great collaborators to create a mix of hip-hop, dubstep, and dance anthems. The opening song, "A Light That Never Comes" is the only new material on the album, but is representative of everything that the band wanted to explore with these remixes. They collaborated with Steve Aoki for the dubstep/dance influence, had Mike write some killer raps, and brought it all together in an aggressive Linkin Park-nature. Their selection of collaborators was fantastic, bringing in known rappers such as Pusha T and Ryu from Styles of Beyond, and utilizing more unknowns like Bun B and Cody B. Ware to add some variety to their usual sound. Mike also wrote some new raps for the remixes that are easily some of the best he has written in years, hitting hard and turning people on their heads. They also brought in artists like Datsik, Killsonik, and Dirtyphonics to throw electronic distortion all over their tracks and make something fantastic. The wobbles and dirty synths found throughout the album fit with Linkin Park's repertoire incredibly well, enhancing their hard hitting nature and adding even more aggression into the music. All of these artists came together with Linkin Park to create some awesome remixes, and continue to show the versatility and adaptability of this band that has been one of my favorites over the years. 
10. The Maine - Forever Halloween
    I didn't have a lot of expectations for this album, to be honest. I absolutely loved their last record, Pioneer, but wasn't terribly impressed with their singles for Forever Halloween. "Love & Drugs" and "Happy" took some getting used to, but once I did, I got hooked on them and the rest of the album. It continues on the path that Pioneer brought them to, moving away from their more mainstream early days and cementing themselves in a sound of their own choosing. They became more realistic, more cemented in what happened as people age and responsibilities and relationships make life not so carefree anymore. Songs like "Kennedy Curse", "These Four Words", and "Forever Halloween" reflect on hard times, lasting pain, and the struggles of dealing with adulthood. "These Four Words" is one of the best songs on the album, being a stripped down piano-driven track about love and the lack of it, and filled with vulnerability and honesty. Not all the songs are so somber, however; songs like "Happy", "Run", and (ironically) "Sad Songs" all have more upbeat natures, although they can get a bit down lyrically. That's part of the realism of the record though; it's not some polished and pretty tune that makes you want to dance blissfully, but songs of heart and emotion and humanity. That is why this album made it in my top list; it may not be the most catchy songs or the most cheery, but some of the most honest I've heard in a while.

Now, even though those albums were the ones that made the list, that doesn't mean there weren't others that came close. Here's a few that didn't make the cut, but definitely were great releases during the year.

Honorable Mentions:

• Tonight Alive - The Other Side
  This album took the sophomore slump and beat it to a pulp. I was impressed by their debut, What Are You So Scared Of?, but this album blew my expectations out of the water. It took their darker nature, which I loved best, and brought it to the forefront, with aggressive songs like "Lonely Girl", "Hell and Back", and "Don't Wish". This album had a realistic sense to it, a lyrical vulnerability that helps you connect with the songs on an even deeper level.  I personally think these guys shine when they get gritty and raw, and that was what they did throughout this whole album. Some other standouts were "The Other Side", "The Fire", and "The Ocean". 
• We Came As Romans - Tracing Back Roots
  These guys were one of my first "Hardcore" bands that I began listening to, and I have been following their career with great interest. This album saw them moving towards a more mainstream style while retaining their essence, which translates to having more generic song structures while keeping things intense, heavy, and uplifting. Songs like "Fade Away", "Never Let Me Go", and "Tell Me Now" all follow a more verse-chorus-verse-chorus type of pattern, but still contain great breakdowns and growling screams like they have always done. Another great part of this album was having David Stephens, their unclean vocalist, do clean vocalists, adding more variety to their songs. This album showed the continuing potential for what the band can become while showing off the great talent they have in this moment. 
• A Day To Remember - Common Curtesy
  After many delays and legal issues, A Day To Remember finally released their long awaited Common Curtesy in late November, and it was definitely worth the wait. This could be their best album to date, with a huge collection of songs that range from upbeat and catchy to lots of distortion and raw rage. "Violence (Enough Is Enough)", "Sometimes You're The Hammer, Sometimes You're The Nail", and "Dead & Buried" are just a few of the hard-hitting tracks that reveal ADTR's ability to still get gritty and intense. They also had some more lighthearted songs, such as "The City Of Ocala" and "Right Back At It Again", which have their heaviness but have a more fun sense to them. There is also a couple of acoustically based songs, like "I'm ALready Gone" and "I Surrender" that reveal the gentle side of the band, and their ability to be soft and intimate instead of intense. I was really pleased when I began listening to this record, and am impressed with the band for what they put out, despite their opposition. 
• The Maine - Imaginary Numbers EP
  This was truly a surprise release from the boys in The Maine. No one expected it, and no one expected it to be so incredibly good. This all acoustic, all original EP is a gem, a stunning set of 5 well done songs. Each have their own strengths that they bring to the collection, and each have qualities that make them stand out without outshining each other. "Raining In Paris" and "Visions" are love songs that bring to mind cloudy days spent inside warm and cozy. "Perfectly Out of Key" and "Room With No Windows" are different in sound, yet both are self-reflective pieces that take different looks at what life has done to us. The use of piano, guitar, percussion, and other instruments all comes together to create a sense of unity while having distinct songs. It was a short set of songs, but definitely full of creativity and continuing the honesty found in Forever Halloween. 
• Pentatonix - PTX, Vol. 2
  Pentatonix is one of the most talent groups out there right now, there's no question about it. Their latest release was a prime example of why I can make this claim, with a new collection of originals and covers that showcase the musical abilities these five contain. Covers like "Can't Hold Us", "Save The World/Don't You Worry Child", and the masterpiece medley "Daft Punk" show their talent for taking any song they cover and making it their own. They also expanded the number of original songs on this album, with tracks like "Natural Disaster", "Love Again", and "Run To You" revealing the diversity and incredibly creativity Pentatonix has. "Love Again" is inspired by the EDM movement, and could easily be played right next to the hottest club hits today. "Run To You" is one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard, and my personal favorite from the album with the strictly harmonic elements building into a huge and epic sound. With this release, Pentatonix shows that they are only just getting started and don't plan on stopping anytime soon. 

Five Song Friday - December 27th

 This is it! The final Five Song Friday of the year! I've been doing these for close to a year now, and I love sharing the music I listen to with everyone who reads. So thank you for being interested in what I write, it's what keeps me writing. This week there was a lot to choose from, since I was finally able to buy some songs I wanted thanks to gift cards. So check out what I've been listening to, and see what you like.

1. Raining In Paris - The Maine
   The Maine is consistent in surprising their listeners with the soul and depth of their songs, and the Imaginary Numbers - EP, was no exception to this. "Raining In Paris" is a beautiful and soft piece about love and romance. The acoustic guitar leads the song, giving it a folky feel while John O'Callaghan sings gently and filled with emotion. The shaker and organ in the chorus add some color and texture, putting contrast in the song. It all comes together to create one of their strongest songs, in my opinion. It creates an atmosphere that is calming and enjoyable. 5/5
2. Countdown - Dangerkids
   Dangerkids are definitely a band to watch, and this song is another example of their potential. Shamelessly harnessing the influence of Linkin Park, Dangerkids blend metalcore with rap and make it work. This song has breakdowns, it has raps, it has electronic influence and hits hard. Both their clean and unclean vocalists work together like a team, trading off and blending incredibly well. I really enjoy their rapper, who sounds so much like Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park that it's uncanny. Their use of electronics and strings also works together really well, adding more dimensions to their music that set them apart from their fellow hardcore bands. 5/5 
3. Love Don't Die - The Fray
   This song is different than what The Fray has done in the past, but it works very well in this case. It's upbeat, it's catchy, and it's a bit edgy. The chorus is brighter, but overall it's got a bit of a gritty tone that catches you ear and makes you nod alone. I particularly enjoy how the main guitar line is acoustic, but it still sounds as edgy as an electric guitar. Isaac Slade's vocals are top notch, soaring incredibly high on the chorus and getting low and gritty on the verses. His voice is one of the most distinct in the music business, and one of the reasons why I continue to listen to the band. The backing vocals of the chorus are insanely high, and give it a ethereal emphasis that adds depth to the song that makes it stand out. 5/5
4. I. Crawl - Childish Gambino
   I had never listened to Childish Gambino before, but I saw that he had a new album out, and decided to check it out to see if it was any good. This song was the stand out, with a raw beat that weaves in and out with the more delicate chorus. Childish Gambino's raps are short, but to the point and explosive. He has good rhythm as well as being lyrically smart. I hadn't planned on really buying anything from the album when I checked it out, but after this song, I might have to check out more of the tracks. 5/5 
5. Legendary Lovers - Katy Perry
   Again with Katy Perry, I know. But I can't deny that her music is my guilty pleasure, and this song is no exception. With it's Asian influence, it, like the title, takes on a legendary vibe, combining some unique instrumental choices with big booming beats and Katy Perry's killer vocals. I really enjoy the pre-chorus, where she speeds up and the hip-hop influence is most prominent. The chorus is also solid as well, a polished hook that draws you in bit by bit. The song is seductive and mysterious, with its exotic flair catching your interest with every listen. The more I explore Katy Perry's latest album, the more I am seeing how great it is, and how excited I am to find more great songs. 5/5