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Article #6 – Product Placement

February 4, 2007 By Tyler Hayes 2 Comments

“We need to check out the last place that the serial killer would have been, and I think I know where that is. Come on let’s get in my Ford Escape hybrid and go.” Lines like this are becoming more and more common in TV shows, and movies these days. What about music though? We have yet to really see product placement in music. Would it bother you to know your favorite artist got paid (an undisclosed amount) every time that a song with a product placement got played on the radio?

There are studies out there for televisions with PVR’s (personal video recorders) that show about 80% of people who record TV shows skip the commercials. That’s natural though right? I mean the idea of getting a recorder is record content when you’re gone, and to skip the commercials. I can’t imagine that those studies would make advertisers happy, and thus the seeming need to find other places to put advertisements.

Music is a new frontier for product placement. Although I doubt it will stay that way for much longer. There have already been at several attempts, McDonald’s probably being one of the most well known.

“McDonald’s, the fast food chain has offered to pay rappers up to $5 every time a song name-checking the Big Mac is played.Ã¢â‚¬Å“ taken from BBC News

On top on many, many other concerns comes the sticky situation of does this now mean the advertiser has to, or rather gets to, approve the lyrics by the artist? Who is really writing the songs if the advertiser can change the song to “convey the product in a positive light”?

“And the Grammy winner for best song this year goes to…. Coca Cola.” Now that’s a scary picture.

I guess the real question is whether being paid to write certain things (products) into songs compromises the integrity of the song or the band. If it doesn’t then no other discussion is even necessary. However if it does, and I think it does, then there are a lot questions and concerns that get raised.

What do you think, is product placement in songs a good idea, or not? Or does it even matter, does anyone care about this topic?

Article #5 – Downloads or CD’s

January 28, 2007 By Tyler Hayes 3 Comments

I think we all know that the way to win over a girl is to make her a mix tape. I remember spending hours going through and listening to what seemed like a million songs trying to find the right ones. I know everyone knows what I’m talking about, because everyone has either made a mix tape or received one. Now that I think about it though, it wasn’t a tape. I made mix Cd’s. “Mix cd” does not have the same ring to it is as “mix tape” does. In the same way that tapes and vinyl are not very common anymore I am willing to bet Cd’s will be phased out at some point for some new format.

What does the future hold for the compact disc? Is it already on its way out, or does it have a long life ahead of itself still? 588.2 million Albums were sold in 2005 which is 4.9% less than the previous year, and although not surpassing in store album sales digital downloads were up 65% from 2005. Last year people purchased an amazing 581.9 million tracks online. IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢m personally not really a numbers person but those are still some interesting figures.

We’re at an interesting crossroads in time, when it comes to the way that music is delivered to us. Everything points towards downloads phasing out physical cds sooner or later, but can a download phase out something tangible? I for one will miss the feeling of buying that new Cd and sitting there flipping through the booklet reading lyrics and looking at the artwork. Staring at a computer screen reading a “digital” booklet is just not the same, trust me.

We cant hold on to the past forever, especially while technology rages on. As long as DRM is prevalent I think we need Cds or at least something tangible that we can use for personal use in whichever way we chose.

Are you someone that buys/gets (well talk about “gets” later down the road) albums online or in the store? Which do you prefer and why?

Article #4 – Music & Innocence pt.2

January 21, 2007 By Tyler Hayes Leave a Comment

Music and Innocence, the words aren’t often found next to each other, but when they are, it’s beautiful.

Let me start this by saying I don’t know the people in the bands I’m about to talk about. I don’t know the situations, or what it’s like to be in their shoes. This is simply my perspective, my opinion. Please read part 1 here.

The other night I had a random playlist on, and all of a sudden “San Dimas high school football rules” started playing. The moment it started, I was back in 9^th grade. The problems, but also the excitements, of being that age came back like I had never grown up. It’s amazing how a simple song has time travel capabilities. Somehow memories get recorded in the melodies and in the lyrics, like a 3^rd dimension that’s added to the song.

I’ve heard some of the new Ataris record “Welcome the night” and I feel betrayed almost. The Ataris were a band I grew up with, and they grew up with me too. People change, music changes, and you can’t do the same things over and over again. But this new record is not “The Ataris”. It may be the same people (or rather 2 of the same people), but it’s not the same band. “Anywhere but here”, “Blue Skies…”, “End is forever”, these were records that felt like they were done with passion. “Welcome the Night” feels like it was done out of greed or something else besides passion.

“Everyone makes mistakes these days, hey nobody’s perfect… but the choices that you make, may involve someone else.Ã¢â‚¬Å“ The Ataris

The last Yellowcard music video I saw was a joke. It was flashy and overdone ultimately coming off boring and cliche. The music video was screaming out “Someone else is calling all the shots, and we don’t care. We just want fame.” The record “Lights and sounds” (in the same way as the video) takes itself too seriously and took all the fun out of a fun band. I miss the days when the music was fun, when the music would speak to people, rather than the music that now just sits there. It feels like they’ve given up on what used to matter.

I don’t hate the bands (and I just use those two bands as examples). I hate the idea of losing something I never thought I would lose. Lying is something that everyone knows is wrong. It’s something you’re just not supposed to do. You’ll lose friends over it, you’ll get fired over it; no one likes being lied to. The same is true with music; nobody wants music that isn’t honest, and no one wants something that’s not real.

Article #3 – Music & Innocence pt. 1

January 13, 2007 By Tyler Hayes 1 Comment

Music and innocence, the words aren’t too often found next to each other, yet they make a lot of sense when they are.

I heard an Mxpx song on the radio back in 1998 I believe. I found out who the band was, I went and bought “Slowly going the way of the buffalo” and to this day it’s still probably the cd of mine that has gotten the most play over the years. I went to see Mxpx a few months after buying their cd. A small band no one I went with had heard of named “The Ataris” was opening for them. The Ataris cd “blue skies, broken hearts, next twelve exits” had just come out and by the end of their set all my friends were at the table buying the cd.

The melodies, the lyrics, everything seemed so relevant at the time. It seemed like the songs were written by someone that had been there, someone who knew what it was like to be in high school and to be that age. It felt like the songs were written for me.

Time went by and bands came and went from my cd player. Some were important and memorable, and some not so much. One band that sticks out though is Yellowcard. Back in the days of the old mp3.com (much like Purevolume.com is now) I would just search and search for all types of music, just anything and everything that sounded good. I’ll never forget when I came across this punk band with a violin in it though. I mean they can’t do that, it’s not the standard three piece stuff that was common. Songs like “October Nights” and “Rock Star Land” made me feel like I was a part of the band, and for those three short minutes, well, I think I was. Yellowcard’s first cd “One for the kids” was legendary in my eyes, the songs were written not because there was huge pressure to, not because millions of people were waiting for it, rather the songs were written because they were real, they needed to be sung.

I’m not old but I’m starting to realize I’m not that young anymore either. Times and music both change but nothing can replace the feeling when a song that’s been frozen in the past comes through the speakers once again. I know most people weren’t affected by the same bands and the same songs as I was, but everybody has their own. What are yours? What are the bands, and songs that take you back in time? What was the soundtrack to your youth?

Article #2 – DRM

January 6, 2007 By Tyler Hayes 7 Comments

DRM is the same thing as the record labels and some content providers saying “I’m Scared”. DRM (the cute way of saying Digital rights management) locks Music, movies, and any other type of content to a specific way of using it. An example of this would be buying a song from itunes but not being able to play the song without an iPod or the itunes media player. Another example would be Microsoft’s Playsforsure. The clever name is not very descriptive though because Playsforsure DRM does not work with every mp3 player (ex. Microsoft’s own Zune).

The internet tubes are filled with anti-DRM propaganda, and so I will spare you all the reasons that DRM is evil because at the end of the day it does that on its own. Rather IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢d like to spend a few minutes going over the opposite, and all the positive things about DRM free content.

The Compact Disc was such a great way to deliver music to a paying customer. I say was because in the age of downloads, the CD appears to be one the way out. However if I were the record companies I would be pushing CD’s now more than ever. CD’s are a way they can still feel safe and people can then do use the content they purchased to listen it in whichever way they prefer. My temporary suggestion to the dilemma that people run into would be “The Ten Dollar CD”. $10 seems to me to be a sweet spot, so why not suck in a little bit of the greed [record labels] and sell every CD for ten bucks?

I know I would seem to be trying to hold on to the past. With 13 billion songs (or whatever the number) sold on itunes, the general public looks to be saying that they want the convenience of buying songs online. It’s funny I use the word convenience because owning a song that you have to go through many illegal steps to get it to play where you want it to is not convenient. The opposite of DRM is freedom right? Well what’s the opposite of downloading a song? I guess the closest thing would be going to the store and buying a CD. As of right now there’s only one or the other. You can’t have freedom in a download. So what is the answer? I guess it’s to buy a CD, or download from the DRM free Emusic.com, or listen to the radio, or give up music. The answer is not Digital Rights Management.

Just a few bands and labels you’ll
find on www.Emusic.com

-Vagrant Records
-The Militia Group
-Doghouse Records

-Sufjan Stevens
-Dashboard Confessional
-MxPx
-Copeland

There is also www.downloadpunk.com
which is in the business of non-DRM mp3’s

More Links where you can find more info about DRM and alternatives

Defective By Design: Against DRM, points out the fact that this copy protection is crippled from the start.
http://www.defectivebydesign.org/en/about

Wikipedia: Information about which devices use DRM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Rights_Management#Devices_that_use_DRM

DRM.info: Article giving reasons to care about this
http://www.drm.info/fsfe/why

Article #1 – 2007 Expectations

December 29, 2006 By Tyler Hayes 4 Comments

Every year around the end of November and the beginning of December the releases start slowing down. The tours start fading out, and the music scene kind of takes a break for a bit. I, along with several other people IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢m sure find myself looking at the next years release schedule and drooling over the next album from so and so.

It usually takes until February until the releases start to roll out again. Slowly you start finding more and more reasons to visit the record store come Tuesday morning. For anyone who enjoys music, and enjoys owning it legally, when April hits you know that your wallet is going to start to feel it. ThatÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s about the time of year bands and labels love to open the flood gates and pour out the big hits of the year.

Come 2007 I already have my eye on several releases, especially the records that are already done and have been for months. Bands like Relient K and Melee whose new albums are being primed for the masses with the early spring release, giving enough time to the marketing department to figure out how to sell these bands that hardly need it. Get songs from Melee and Relient K out there and I guarantee you sell few records. I hate waiting for these albums that I know are done and just waiting to be listened to. What can you do except wait though?

Future of Forestry is a band that I canÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t stop talking about and for a good reason. They bring the indie rock that will definitely have them drawing attention in 2007. Their debut full length comes out in January and I hope people donÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t miss out on the amazing record Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”TwilightÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?. Anberlin is another band who seems to always put out records early in the year and I canÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t thank them enough for that. Their third release Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”CitiesÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? Comes out mid February and has already been building a nice bit of buzz for itself before ever releasing a song.

Release from Limbeck, Sherwood, Jimmy Eat World, and Cassino top my list of bands whose cd canÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t come out fast enough. With the new year always comes the expectations of music for the next year and every year I know there will be cdÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s that fall short of the hopes for it, but I also know that next year I will have another list of amazing cdÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s that I just canÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t live without. HereÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s to all the new music 2007 will bring us.

What are you looking forward? Let us know

Weekly Articles

December 23, 2006 By Tyler Hayes 1 Comment

We’re (mostly me, I think) going to start doing weekly articles about anything and everything music related. I would like some feed back on stuff people are interested in though. I know there are people that read this site, so please leave so feed back in the comments section. Thanks

Best of 2006: Bands

December 20, 2006 By Bryce Jacobson Leave a Comment

Below you can find some best of 2006 lists from some of your favorite bands.

Jeff Kummer (The Early November)
1. John Mayer – Continuum
2. Justin Timberlake – FutureSex / LoveSounds
3. Goo Goo Dolls – Let Love In
4. +44 – When Your Heart Stops Beating
5. AFI – Decemberunderground
6. Saves The Day – Sound The Alarm
7. New Found Glory – Coming Home
8. Taking Back Sunday – Louder Now
9. Spitalfield – Better Than Knowing Where You Are
10. The Format – Dog Problems

Tim Spier (Say No More)
1. Copeland “Eat Sleep Repeat”
2. John Mayer “Continuum”
3. Underoath “Define The Great Line”
4. Taking Back Sunday “Louder Now”
5. The Format “Dog Problems”
6. This Providence “This Providence”
7. The Early November “The Mother, The Mechanic and the Path”
8. Gym Class Hereos “Cruel as School Children”
9. Say Anything “…Is A Real Boy”
10. Hellogoodbye “Zombies!, Aliens!, Vampires!, Dinosaurs!”

Most Anticipated of 2007
The Starting Line
The Almost
Anberlin
Mae
Sherwood
Relient K
Jimmy Eat World
Self Against City
Say No More (ha ha weeee)
Probably a bunch more that i can’t think of…

New Years Resolution
To tour for as much as the years as possible

Fondenst Memory of 2006
Signing with Drive Thru Records
(Being summereric was a close 2nd)

Tommy Guindon (Halifax)
ludacris- release therapy
plus 44
the strokes
jet-shine on
halifax.haha
john mayer- continuum
justin timberlake- future,sex, love sounds
he is legend- suck ou the poison
clipse
pharell

top 10 movies of 2006
borat
the departed
saw3
the devil wears prada
loose change (google it and watch it)
thank you for smoking
babel
v for vendetta
little miss sunshine
american dreamz

top 5 shows of 2006
LOST
entourage
LOST
entourage
LOST&entourage

top 5 memories of 2006
warped tour 06
my brothers wife and sister having babies
visting hawaii more often then last year
meeting an amazing girl from new york
playing live on carson daly

Jack Matranga (Self Against City)
Killers-Sam’s Town
The Fray-How to Save a Life
Quietdrive-When All Thats Left is You
Gym Class Heroes – As Cruel As School Children
Taking Back Sunday – Louder Now
Justin Timberlake – Future Sex/Love Sounds
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Stadium Arcadium
The Transit War – Miss Your Face
Yeah Yeah Yeahs – Show Your Bones
Rookie Of The Year – The Goodnight Moon

Top Ten Movies Released In 2006:
V for Vendetta
Lucky Number Slevin
The Da Vinci Code
Clerks II
Talledega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby
Jackass: Number Two
Borat
The Last Kiss
MI:3
A Scanner Darkly

Top Five TV Shows Of 2006:
Weeds
Entourage
24
OC
The Office

Brandon Swanson (I am the Avalanche)
the sleeping- questions and answers
The forcast- in the shadow of two gunmen
Gym class heroes- …schoolchildren
The killers- sams town
Sigur ros- takk
Hull- viking funeral
Punchline- 37 everywhere
Head automatica- popaganda
Rx Bandits- and the battle begun…
The starting line- based on a true story

Top Ten Movies Released In 2006:
I didn’t get to see any, I was stuck in our van!!!

Top Five TV Shows Of 2006:
Lost, WEEDS, Entourage

Top Five Memories Of 2006:
The Ratt getting wheeled up in a wheel chair to our hotel room in japan. He was wasted, and had pissed himself while he was passed out in the lobby between the elevators. Haha.
Getting tattood by Matt from no use for a name with Tokyo Hiros gun in japan.
Doing the last two weeks of warped tour in a van. (Smelly ass van.) And having a spraypainted cardboard sign on our merch tent. The tent was a hand-me-down from boy sets fire.
Driving from LA to NY or visa-versa numerous times to meet up with tours. (It takes 53 hours if anyone was curious.)
And last but def not least, being on a european tour and being in Amsterdam for about 4 or 5 days total. Our bus driver would drive us there after shows. Haha. Heineken on tap, “coffee shops” aka the weed store. What a glorious year it has been.

Jack Antonoff (Steel Train)
the mountain goats – get lonely
dr. dog – we all belong
rose hill drive – s/t
regina spektor – begin to hope
mike birbiglia – two drink mike
el oso negro – you dance the truth
joanna newsome – ys
the format – dog problems
m. ward – post war
sound team – movie monster

Top Ten Movies Released In 2006:
Marie Antoinette
the science of sleep
mission impossible 3
shortbus
the devil wears prada
little miss sunshine
wish i could say strangers with candy
deck the halls
brick
running with scissors…just kidding

Top Five TV Shows Of 2006:
the show about midgets on A&E
everyday italian
weeds
studio 60
law and order SVU

Top Five Memories Of 2006:
– the time my friend daniel silbert caught fire at a frat party
– when my sister took a shit on the street in new york
– MOOKA KINNEY!!!
– LUECKY KINNEY!!
– eating soup out of a pumpkin in montreal

Mike SaffertÃƒ”šÃ‚ (Hidden in Plain View)
1. The Decemberists- “The Crane Wife”
2. Bob Dylan- “Modern Times”
3. Sufjan Stevens- “The Avalanche”
4. Camera Obscura- “Lets Get Out Of This Country”
5. Bruce Springsteen- “We Shall Overcome”
6. Billie The Vision & The Dancers- “I Am Pablo”
7. Cat Power- “The Greatest”
8. Belle & Sebastian- “The Life Persuit”
9. Ben Kweller- “Ben Kweller”
10. Saves The Day- “Sound The Alarm”

movies
1. Little Miss Sunshine
2. Nightmare Before Christmas 3D
3. CSA: The Confederate States Of America
4. Thank You For Smoking
5. The Science Of Sleep
6. Clerks 2
7. Hollywood Land
pretty much everything else sucked and I haven’t seen Borat yet, but
I’m sure that will be on there

tv shows
1. LOST
2. The Venture Brothers
3. Wondershowzen
4. The Sopranos
5. Flaver Of Love

memories
1. playing mainstage at Bamboozle in the Giants Stadium parking lot
2. recording an album with Brian McTernan
3. moving to Brooklyn with two of my best friends
4. doing our biggest UK tour to date
5. getting hit on the head with an acorn on E 14th St… that just
happened as I was typing this, it friggen hurts.

Chris Bazan of The A.K.A.s
Cursive – Happy Hallow
The Coup – Pick A Bigger Weapon
Tapes N’ Tapes – The Loon
Scissor Sisters – Tah-Dah
The Decemberists – The Crane Wife
The Rapture – Pieces Of The People We Love
David Bazan – Fewer Moving Parts
Mates Of State – Bring It Back
The Arctic Monkeys – Whatever People Say I Am, Thats What I’m Not
Talib Kweli – Ear Drum

Mike Ski of The A.K.A.s
Riverboat Gamblers “To the Confusion of our Enemies”
Butch Walker and The Let’s Go Out Tonites
Dresden Dolls “Yes, Virginia”
Anti-Flag “For Blood and Empire”
Rise Against “The Sufferer and the Witness”
Gil Bearline “The WizArd HAtz EP”
My Chemical Romance “The Black Parade”
Gym Class Heroes “As Cruel as School Children”
Thunderbirds are Now! “Make History”

Steve Soboslai of Punchline
Cursive – Happy Hollow
Saves The Day – Sound The Alarm
Procession Came Opposite – Are We Getting Through?
The Streets – The Hardest Way To Make An Easy Living
Over It – Step Outside Yourself
New Amsterdams – Story Like A Scar
The Format – Dog Problems
Ben Folds – SuperSunnySpeedGraphic
Spitalfield – Better Than Knowing Where You Are
Black Pool Lights – This Towns Disaster

Dan Young of This Providence
The Strokes – First Impressions of Earth
Forgive Durden – Wonderland
mewithoutYou – Brother, Sister
Gatsbys American Dream – Selft Titled
Saves the Day – Sound The Alarm
Joe Purdy – Only Four Seasons
Sherwood – The Summer EP
Pete Yorn – Nightcrawler
Under The Influence of Giants – Self Titled
Rocky Votolato – Makers

Tony Hajjar’s/ Sparta Drummer Top 5 Albums of 2006
1. Deftones “Saturday night Wrist”
2. Neko Case “Fox Confessor”
3. Thom Yorke “the eraser”
4. Gran Bel Fisher “Full Moon Cigarette”
5. Brazil “The Philosophy of Velocity”

Austin (singer)HINDER Top 5
Jet – Shine On
Buckcherry – 15
The Rolling Stones – A Bigger Bang
30 Seconds To Mars – A Beautiful Lie
Ben Harper – Both Sides of the Gun

Blower (guitar) from Hinder’s Top 5
Papa Roach – Paramour Sessions
Buckcherry – 15
Jet – Shine On
Three Days Grace – One-X
My Chemical Romance – The Black Parade

Villebillies
Chamillionaire “sound of revenge”
RHCP “stadium arcadium”
Hank 3 “straight to hell”
Gnarles Barkley “st elsewhere”
Unknown Henson “sales from the coffin”

Best of 2006: DFO

December 17, 2006 By Bryce Jacobson 10 Comments

Below you can find the staff of Driven Far Off’s best of lists. Please leave your comments and thoughts on our lists below.

Bryce Jacobson

Top 10 Albums
1. Boys Like Girls
2. Angels & Airwaves
3. Saosin
4. Spitalfield
5. Forever Changed
6. Skillet
7. The Fold
8. Mute Math
9. Plus 44
10. Underoath

Top EP’s
1. Sherwood
2. Lakes
3. Goodbye Tomorrow

Disappointment Albums
1. The Early November
2. This Providence
3. Thursday

Top 10 2007 Anticipations
1. Motion City Soundtrack
2. Jimmy Eat World
3. Emery
4. Sherwood
5. Relient K
6. Anberlin
7. Mae
8. Paramore
9. The Academy Is…
10. Say Anything

Best Live Show
Mute Math (Cornerstone, IL)

Best New Band
Boys Like Girls

Most overrated band
Panic! At The Disco

Most underrated band
Spitalfield

Top 5 Movies (No Order)
Grandma’s Boy
Pirates of The Caribbian: Dead Man’s Chest
Over The Hedge
Accepted
Lucky Number Sleven

Top 5 TV Shows
1. Heroes
2. Prison Break
3. The Office
4. House
5. Smallville
6. My Name Is Earl
7. Veronica Mars

Anticipated movies for 2007
Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix
Spiderman 3
Sin City 2
Evan Almighty
300
Live Free or Die Hard
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Reema Desai

Top 10 Albums
1. Brand New – The Devil And God Are Raging Inside Me
2. The Format – Dog Problems
3. Kevin Devine – Put Your Ghost To Rest
4. Thursday – A City By The Light Divided
5. Thom Yorke – The Eraser
6. Muse – Black Holes and Revelations
7. The Killers – Sam’s Town
8. Men Women and Children – S/T
9. Head Automatica – Popaganda
10. Gym Class Heroes – As Cruel As School Children

Top EP’s
1. Colour Revolt – S/T
2. Sherwood – The Summer EP
3. David Melillo – Talk Is Cheap EP
Top Disappointment Albums
1. AFI – Decemberunderground

Top 10 2007 Anticipations
1. Modest Mouse
2. The Honorary Title
3. Jimmy Eat World
4. Third Eye Blind
5. Straylight Run
6. The Starting Line
7. Person L
8. Mae
9. Say Anything
10. Alkaline Trio

Best Live Show
1. Jack’s Mannequin. Everytime I saw them this year, I was in absolute disbelief that Andrew had ever had cancer.

2. Brand New. In particular, when I saw them play acoustically at a local CD store, and then later that night full band in a huge arena. Seeing the band put on two radically different but equally amazing shows in a matter of hours was incredible.

Best New Band
Colour Revolt

Most overrated band
Plain White T’s

Most underrated band
The Format

Best Album Artwork / Packaging
Thom Yorke – The Eraser

Top 5 Movies
1. Factotum
2. The Devil Wears Prada
3. The Pursuit Of Happyness
4. Monster House
5. Snakes On A Plane… just kidding

Top 5 TV Shows
1. Heroes
(while making this list, I realized that I don’t watch much TV!)

Any anticipated movies for 2007
Ocean’s 13
Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix haha

Trevor Bivens

Top 10 Albums
1. Boys Like Girls – S/T
2. Hit the Lights – This Is a Stickup, Don’t Make It a Murder
3. Saosin – S/T
4. Spitalfield – Better Than Knowing Where You Are
5. New Found Glory – Coming Home
6. Punchline – 37 Everywhere
7. Gym Class Heroes – As Cruel As Schoolchildren
8. Lostprophets – Liberation Transmission
9. Monty Are I – Wall of People
10. Dashboard Confessional – Dusk and Summer

Top EP’s
Fridays Mean Tanya – Yeah, The Wind Moves Me
Dave Melillo – Talk Is Cheap

Disappointments
Cute Is What We Aim For – The Same Old Blood Rush with a New Touch
My Chemical Romance – The Black Parade (I’m still highly on the fence with this one.)
Brand New – The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me

Top 10 Anticipations for 2007
1. Motion City Soundtrack
2. Paramore
3. theAudition
4. Fall Out Boy
5. The Higher
6. Days Away
7. Jimmy Eat World
8. Bloc Party
9. theAcademyIs…
10. The Used

Best Live Show
Hit the Lights

Best Tour Package
Warped Tour ’06

Best New Band
Boys Like Girls

Most Overrated Band
Hinder

Most Underrated Band
Spitalfield/Punchline

Best Album Artwork/Packaging
Punchline – 37 Everywhere

Top 5 Movies
1. Clerks 2
2. X- Men: The Last Stand
3. Man of the Year
4. Happy Feet
5. Pirates of the Caribbean 2: Dead Man’s Chest

Top 5 Television Shows
1. It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia
2. Heroes
3. Venture Bros.
4. The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency
5. Little People Big World

Valida Prentice

Top 10 Albums
1 The Killers – Sam’s Town
2 Artic Monkeys – Whatever People Say I am, That’s What I’m Not
3 Gnarls Barkley – St. Elsewhere
4 Yo La Tengo – I Am Not Afraid of You and I Will Beat Your Ass
5 The Black Keys – Magic Potion
6 My Chemical Romance – the Black Parade
7 the Hidden Cameras – Awoo
8 Badly Drawn Boy – Born in the UK
9 Wolfmother – Wolfmother
10 Alexi Murdoch – Time without Consequence

Best Singles (with Chart Success)
1 Cobra Starship – “Snakes on a Plane (Bring It)”
2 Snow Patrol – “Chasing Cars”
3 The All-American Rejects – “It Ends Tonight”

Best Live Acts
1 the Pinker Tones
2 the Hidden Cameras
3 the Cottars

Biggest Letdowns
1 Neil Young – Living with War
2 Sugarcult – Lights Out

Saddest Breakups
1 The Cottars
2 Acceptance
3 Rufio
4 The Juliana Theory
5 Mest
(3-5 were bands that I dug from the very start of my interest in this sort of music. Sad to see them go “into the dark”)

Most Anticipated for 2007
1 The Cure
2 Coldplay
3 the Shins
4 Radiohead
5 Wilco
6 The Smashing Pumpkins
7 Jimmy Eat World
8 the Ataris
9 Coheed and Cambria
10 Usher

Mike Duncan

Top 10 Albums
1. New Found Glory – Coming Home
2. Taking Back Sunday – Louder Now
3. The Format – Dog Problems
4. Copeland – Eat, Sleep, Repeat
5. The Goo Goo Dolls – Let Love In
6. Monty Are I – Wall of People
7. Zox – The Wait
8. Brand New – The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me
9. Matchbook Romance – Voices
10. Umbrellas – Illuminare

Tyler Hayes

Top 10 Albums
10. Brand New – The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me
9. This Providence – Self Titled
8. Goo Goo Dolls – Let Love In
7. Leeland – Sound of melodies
6. The Decemberists – The Crane Wife
5. Inkwell – These Stars Are Monsters
4. Fair – Best worst case senario
3. Copeland – Eat, Sleep, Repeat
2. Sleeping at last – Keep no score
1. mutemath – self titled

Top EP’s
3. Sherwood – summer EP
2. Lakes
1. Future Of Forestry

Disappointment Albums
3. Rock Kills Kid – Are You Nervous?
2. The Killers – Sam’s Town
1. Plus 44 – When Your Heart Stops Beating

Top 10 2007 Anticipations
10. MAE
9. The Starting Line
8. Waking Ashland
7. Lovedrug
6. Cassino
5. Limbeck
4. Relient k
3. Jimmy Eat World
2. Sherwood
1. Anberlin

Best Live Show
Mutemath

Best New Band
Future Of forestry

Most overrated band
Panic! at the Disco

Most underrated band
Mutemath

Best Album Artwork / Packaging
Sleeping at last /Keep no score (artwork)

Top 5 Movies
5. Akeelah and the Bee
4. Stranger Than Fiction
3. V For Vendetta
2. Inside Man
1. The Prestige

Top 5 TV Shows
5. Psych
4. Modern marvels (History Channel)
3. The Office
2. Studio 60 on the sunset strip
1. Lost

Anticipated movies for 2007
Reign Over Me
Music and Lyrics

Manuel Garcia

Top 10 Albums:
1. Alexisonfire released their most anticipated record of their career (so far) on August 22nd, 2006. Ever since I heard the first song of the new record (Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”This Could Be Anywhere In The WorldÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?), I knew this record would be amazing. It has become one of those records that you can listen to five times in a row and never get tired of it. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”CrisisÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was a huge step for Alexisonfire and they have headed in a new direction. Even though they still hold their distinct sound, they managed to progress into something more mature and meaningful. The vocals are outstanding, with Dallas GreenÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s impressive singing and George PettitÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s distinctive screaming. The music is addictive and creative enough to leave you humming for days.

2. I remember hearing about Set Your Goals and noticing the hype circling around them. I decided to give them a shot and I was hooked. They are catchy, upbeat, and positive. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”MutinyÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was something everyone was looking forwarded to and when released, everyone couldnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t stop talking about it. Even though the record is only 30 minutes long, itÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s still one of the best records. With this released, Set Your Goals will lift up your spirit, put a smile on your face, and create the anthem for 2006. This record established a incredibly large fan base and put Set Your Goals as one of the bands to watch in the upcoming years. Seeing what they accomplished in 2006, I can only imagine what they will get done in 2007.

3. No matter what genre someone listens to, everyone manages to fall in love with MewithoutYou. Not only is their music unique and different in a sea copycats, they are the most genuine guys you will ever meet. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Brother, SisterÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was released and it showcased a new approach for the band. The music is still creative, but there is more singing then yelling. The lyrics are more about God and religion. Regardless of the different approach taken, this is one of the greatest records of 2006. ItÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s relaxing and something you can listen to, and get inspired. No matter if you are Christian, Jewish, or atheist, this record will leave you in amazement and addicted.

4. Jonezetta signed to Tooth and Nail Records and no one knew anything about them. I havenÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t heard of them before, but I noticed that a lot of other bands were supporting them and spreading the word so I figured there must be something different to them. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”PopularityÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was released and it established a sound for Jonezetta. The sound was catchy, techno-fused, and dance-type music. If going solely on genres, you could say that Panic At The Disco already owned this genre, but Panic has nothing on Jonezetta. This record showed their upbeat, catchy melodies but also their slower side. Jonezetta had a big year, but 2007 is going to even a greater year for them.

5. The hardcore scene is overpopulated with carbon copies of bands that all sound alike. The same theme in lyrics, the same riffs, the same overused sound. I came across a band that had their own sound, their own unique lyrics, and their overall essence that made them stand out. Sinking Ships came out with Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”DisconnectingÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? and it incorporates elements of old-school hardcore and new age elements as well. The record is catchy and something new. The music is well crafted, the vocals are impressive, and the songs have a meaning. After the release of Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”DisconnectingÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?, I felt hopeful for bands that are providing something new and not overplayed.

6. After a four year hiatus, Spitfire busted through the doors of the music scene with their highly anticipated Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Self-HelpÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?. Bringing a new sound to the table, Spitfire crafted something different than the Spitfire people were familiar with four years ago. This band consists of an all-star lineup consisting of members from Scarlet, Norma Jean, and Mae. When first listening to this record, I was overwhelmed with emotions. The songs are destructive and will leave you wanting more, like a heroine addict needing his fix. Jon SpencerÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s lyrics are unlike anything youÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢ve heard before and will leave you falling in love with every single word. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Self-HelpÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? is an amazing record with a unique, brutal sound that left everyone wanting more. If you havenÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t seen Spitfire live, I advise you to attend one of their shows; they manage to put on one of the best shows I have seen in 2006.

7. Converge is one of the biggest bands in the underground music scene. Creating brutal, fast paced music is their specialty, but they also manage to experiment with sounds and provide something distinctive. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”HeroesÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was talked about ever since the news was released that they were recording a new record. The best thing about this record is the way it is structured. The record starts off with songs incorporating what they are known for; brutal, fast-paced music with the unique screams of Jacob Bannon. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”HeroesÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? is one of their best records, showcasing everything you thought they were capable of and everything you never expected from them.

8. Regardless what anyone says, hip-hop is an art form that is dying. The public has this view on hip-hop music that isnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t justified. Everyone thinks that hip-hop consists of songs about hoes, the ghetto, crack, money, and anything else talked about in the mainstream. The Roots have always created their own music and provided lyrics about issues going on in the world. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Game TheoryÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? is by far one of my favorite hip-hop records this year. ItÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s experimental, and yet catchy. The lyrics are outstanding and the music is perfectly written. I listen to this record weekly and it revives my hope that hip-hop will resurrect from the ashes and show the world the art of spoken word.

9. I realized that everyone will be placing Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”God And The Devil Are Raging Inside MeÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? by Brand New in their top 10 records of 2006, but I will still add it to my list. This record was by far one of the most anticipated records of this year. Everyone loves Brand New for their brutally honest lyrics, catchy chorus, and their ability to sing about the things we all deal with in our lives. This record is something completely different compared to their older stuff, but it was expected. Brand New has grown up and their music grew up along the process. Even if they decided to play bluegrass or rap music, they will still carry with them the essence that has made them so popularly known. This record is a masterpiece and one of the most outstanding records IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢ve ever heard. The music is inspiring and the lyrics are real and honest. If this record isnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t already in your collection then I advise you to drop whatever you are doing (even reading this) and go buy it.

10. The Human AbstractÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”NocturneÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was one of the most impressive records in 2006. There are a wide range of genres and influences throughout the record, having a little something for everyone. I wonÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t go too much into this record because my review already explained a lot. This record is a masterpiece and gained The Human Abstract a huge fan base.

Top 3 EPÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s:
1. Oh, Sleeper has been getting a lot of hype considering they consist of members from Terminal and Between The Buried and Me, two highly respected the bands. Oh, SleeperÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s debut EP from 1×1 Music, Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”The Armored MarchÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?, consists of five songs that will leave you with in a daze and all the blood rushed to your head. The songs are heavy, but not typically written in the generic format of breakdowns. The songs consist of heavy parts that will leave you fueled, slow parts that will calm you down, and addictive parts that will leave you wanting an full length record from Oh, Sleeper as soon as possible.

2. After seeing Terminal live, I found out about their breaking up and I was at least glad I got to see them play live. One of the best things about Terminal was the compelling voice of Travis Bryant. Suddenly it was announced that Travis will be joining Goodbye Tomorrow. Goodbye Tomorrow released a self-tilted, three song EP this year, giving the fans a little taste of what is to come from the band. The three songs on this EP are masterfully written and provide something similar, yet similar to Terminal. 2007 is going to be a big year for Goodbye Tomorrow so I would get my hands on this EP and prepare yourself.

3. I never thought I would be listening to an EP that is entirely about pizza and ends with a song about the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. HORSE The Band has become well known for their obsession with pizza and their humorous approach to music and their career. This record includes techno-driven keyboards, fast paced music, and singing/screaming about the magical deliciousness of pizza. This EP will leave you laughing straight through, but it will leaving you wanting more. HORSE The Band will leave you with an urge to sink your teeth into a slice of pizza and thinking Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Damn, pizza really is magical.Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?

Top 3 Disappointments:
1. I was never too big of a fan of Matchbook Romance, but their older recordings were catchy and I often found myself listening to them. When I heard they were coming out with a new record, I was interested to see how it would sound. I figured that the band has progressed and matured, therefore Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”VoicesÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was going to be something great to listen to. The band also managed to over promote the new record, so it build up the hype, thinking they were going to release something impressive. I saw the band live shortly before Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”VoicesÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?, and I was disappointed. I felt my eyelids closing and their new music was boring me to death. I was counting down till their set was over because I couldnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t take more of it. I came home and listen to some of their new songs and it still didnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t appeal to me. Matchbook RomanceÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s new record had a hype behind it but I found myself, along with other fans, disappointed with the new direction they decided to take and the bore of Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”VoicesÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?.

2. Tooth and Nail Records has been known for signing outstanding bands that are successful in the industry. When I first heard of The Classic Crime, I was excited to hear what new music Tooth and Nail discovered. The first I heard from the band was Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”The FightÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? and I was impressed. It was a catchy, sing-along song driven with a strong passion. When I got the record in the mail to review, I wasnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t at all disappointed. It was a solid record that caught my attention. But the thing was, when I first heard of The Classic Crime, I thought they would create a record that was something I could never tired of nor ever want to stop listening to. After listening to Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”AlbatrossÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? several times and having my friends play it over and over, I found myself not wanting to listen to it. I expected an epic record that will always sound as impressive as it in the beginning, but it never reached that level. It isnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t a bad record at all, it just wasnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t what I was expecting from The Classic Crime.

3. Showbread has always been a band with their own sound and that is what made them stand out. I saw them live and they were hilarious and put on a great show. I talked to one of the members of the band and he was talking about the new record, and I began getting excited. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”No Sir, Nihilism Is Not PracticalÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was a great record that is something new to listen to and catchy as well. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Age Of ReptilesÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? has a few solid songs, but the rest are weak and not appealing. IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢ve tried listening to this record and getting into it, but I just find myself getting into a few songs, and not caring about the rest of the songs. It was a disappointment because there was a lot of hype around ShowbreadÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s new record, considering their previous record was loved amongst so many. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Age Of ReptilesÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? was a disappointing move in their career but I hope they can mange to recover with their next release.

Best Live Show:
I saw MewithoutYou play an acoustic set at a local music store in Richmond, Virginia and it was the first time seeing them. I was blown away. Even though their music isnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t necessarily made for acoustic sets, they still managed to pull it off. They played all new songs, considering they were Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”promotingÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? the new record Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Brother, SisterÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? During the short set, I felt the hairs on my arms stand straight up, like soldiers lined up for combat. After the set, I interviewed Aaron Weiss and it was by far one of the greatest and most insightful interviews I have done. I left that night with wishing I could see play again. A week later, I was in Norfolk witness one of the best shows IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢ve seen. They get into their music, as if the sounds were entering their veins. Aaron danced around while singing and itÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s truly something to see. He also threw roses around the stage and they played the show like it was their last show ever. If you havenÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t seen MewithoutYou play live before, then I suggest buying tickets to their next show in your area and prepare yourself to witness something inspiring and impressive.

Best New Band:
I was introduced to Callisto by Alan Simpson of This Time ItÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s War, and he told me they were something different and he couldnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t stop listening to them. I got their record that was released in October, entitled Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”NoirÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?. Callisto is a band from Finland that incorporates screaming with instrumental and jazzy music. This band proves the fact that you donÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t need to have heavy music with breakdowns to have screaming influenced vocals. The record is inspiring and consists of the type of music you can just lay down, relax, and listen to while you reflect on things. The screaming isnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t the typical screaming you hear in hardcore or metal bands, but something to serve as a backdrop to the music. The lyrics are inspiring and thought provoking. Callisto is going to gain a lot of popularity in 2007 and IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢m excited to see how far they go.

Most Overrated Band:
There are a lot of overrated bands in 2006, bands that got a lot of attention when they donÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t have that much talent. One of the bands that comes to mind is AFI. I have never been a fan of AFI but their older stuff was tolerable. Suddenly the lead singer decides he wants to change genders and everyone obsesses over their new record. I listen to a few songs on the new record and it wasnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t anything impressive. I found myself annoyed with their music. Even though their music isnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t great, they still manage to be all over MTV and have the attention of everyone. There are a bunch of bands out there that are way better than AFI and deserve to be recognized.

Most Underrated Band:
Every time I listen to Giant, I canÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t help but try and comprehend why they arenÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t more well known. They are writing music about issues that may of us are over looking, like racism, sexism, homophobia, institutionalization, gentrification, animal liberation, class struggle, eco-liberation, sobriety, post-modernism, and etc. The music is relaxing and progressive and the screams are loud enough to be heard, but quiet enough to not take away from the musical essence of the songs. Their record Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”SongÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? consists of only five songs, but the record is over 50 minutes long. I advise everyone to listen to Giant and indulge yourself into inspiring music with a meaning.

Best Album Artwork / Packaging:
Norma JeanÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”RedeemerÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?

Top 3 Movies:
1. As everyone already knows, Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of KazakhstanÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?, was a huge success that brought in a lot of controversial. I rarely see movies twice, but this was one of those movies that I didnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t mind seeing twice. Every scene in this movie was hilarious and makes you admire Sacha Baron Cohen for his genius comedic ability. The movie shows the thoughts of the people and how racism does exist, the importance we place on celebrities, and the way we feel about foreigners. Some people are outraged about this film, but they do not understand the true message of his comedy. Yes, a lot of the parts in the movie might be offensive but itÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s also a huge satire on American culture. The movie is genius masterpiece and also one of the funnies movies IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢ve ever seen. I donÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t recall another movie that had me crying so hard I was holding my stomach and whipping tears from my eyes.

2. There are always those movies that come out and donÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t get a lot of attention, but are one of the best films of the years. Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Running ScaredÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? is a extremely violent, but extremely well written movie. The movie revolves around disposing a gun and how much trouble a Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”dirtyÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬? gun can get people in. The filming is different and the effects are perfectly used. I found myself hooked from the opening scene and the entire movie takes you on a rollercoaster, not knowing what to expect.

3. Another movie that got a lot of attention for being outrageous was Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Jackass: Number TwoÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?. This is another movie that I managed to find myself seeing twice. The things they do are unbelievable and will leave you in disgust, but laughing for hours. I think this movie was better than the first one because the stunts were more dangerous and more creative. While watching this movie, I would the hairs on my arms would stand up straight whenever the entire theater would roar in laughter. If you havenÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t seen Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Jackass: Number TwoÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬?, then I suggest renting it when it comes out and getting a bunch of friends together and laughing your head off.

Top 2 TV shows:
1. Most of the shows on television right now are just copy of things that have already been done, just with different character names. ItÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s rare to come across a show that draws the audience in and makes them think constantly. LOST has been going strong since the first episode, drawing in millions of viewers each night. LOST is a TV show, but it also incorporates different things to give audiences an edge. There are books, commercials, websites, games, and everything else that provides a little insight to the show. The plot is always expanding and it is always a mystery. The flashback aspect of the show provides information to the characterÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s life and how they connect with each other. After watching two seasons (and waiting for the 3rd to start again in February), IÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢m drawn into the world of LOST. LOST is the only show out there that will provide hours of conversation with your friends about different theories. LOST is the only show I would leave work on Wednesdays to watch a new episode. Join the hype and buy the first two seasons of LOST on DVD.

2. Another show that has caught my attention with their unique filming and plot line is Heroes. The promos of the show didnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t give too much information away, but it gave enough to catch the attention of viewers. The show has a lot of twist and turns and the plot is well written. Every episode gives a little information and doesnÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t leave the viewer disappointed. Besides LOST, Heroes is one of the only, creative, and different shows out there. The new episode comes on in January, so catch up and prepare yourself.

Anticipated Movies of 2007:
1. Zodiac
2. Spiderman 3
3. Sin City 2
4. Transformers
5. Evan Almighty
6. 28 Weeks Later
7. 300
8. I Am Legend
9. Live Free or Die Hard
10. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Katie Arsenault

Top 5 Albums
1. Brand New-The Devils and Gods are Raging Inside Me
2. Boys Like Girls-S/T
3. Hit the Lights-This is a Stick UpÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã‚¦ DonÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t Make it a Murder
4. Taking Back Sunday- Louder Now
5. Cartel-Chroma (okay, I know it came out last year, but they re-released it L)

Disappointment Albums
1. New Found Glory
2. Senses Fail
3. CUTE IS WHAT WE AIM FOR. ugh.

4. Sugarcult

Top 5 2007 Anticipations
1. Paramore
2. The Academy Is..
3. Fall Out Boy
4. Mae
5. Anberlin

Best Live Show
Alkaline Trio

Best New Band
Boys Like Girls (agreeing with you bryce.)

Most overrated band
Panic! at The Disco (agreeing again with you bryce.)

Most underrated band
Hit the Lights

Jamie Pham
Top 10 Albums
The Format – Dog Problems
Brand New – The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me
Copeland – Eat Sleep Repeat
Mute Math – s/t
Boys Like Girls – s/t
Hush Sound – Like Vines
Heavens – Patent Pending
Love Arcade – s/t
John Mayer – Continuum
Ben Folds – Supersunnyspeedgraphic LP

Top 5 Disappointment Albums
Angels and Aiwaves – We Dont Need To Whisper
Halifax – The Inevitability of a Strange World
Taking Back Sunday – Louder Now
Head Automatica – Popoganda
Hellogoodbye – Zombies! Aliens! Vampires! Dinosaurs!

Top 10 2007 Anticipations
Motion City Soundtrack
Bright Eyes
Limbeck
Circa Survive
Emery
The Faint
Jimmy Eat World
Say Anything
Modest Mouse
Young Love

Best Live Show
Imogen Heap
The Format

Best New Band
Mute Math
Boys Like Girls

Most overrated band
30 Seconds to Mars

Most underrated band
Over It

Best Album Artwork / Packaging
Anathallo – Floating World

Best Music Video
The Format – Dog Problems

Michael Schneider

Top 10 Albums
1. Underoath – Define The Great Line
2. Matt Wertz – Everything In Between
3. John Mayer – Continuum
4. Angels & Airwaves – We Don’t Need To Whisper
5. Dave Barnes – Chasing Mississippi
6. Hellogoodbye – Zombies! Aliens! Vampires! Dinosaurs!
7. The Format – Dog Problems
8. Between The Trees – The Story & The Song
9. Matchbook Romance – Voices
10. Moneen – The Red Tree

Top 3-5 EP’s
1. Brightwood – The Love Antidote EP
2. Dave Melillo – Talk Is Cheap EP
3. Sherwood – Summer EP

Biggest Disappointments
1. This Providence – This Providence
2. Copeland – Eat, Sleep, Repeat
3. Dashboard Confessional – Dusk & Summer
4. The Early November – The Mother, The Mechanic, The Path
5. The Matches – Decomposer

Top 10 2007 Anticipations
1. Emery
2. Paramore
3. Jack’s Mannequin
4. Sherwood
5. The Rocket Summer
6. Brightwood
7. The Starting Line
8. New Atlantic
9. Relient K
10. Daphne Loves Derby

Best Live Shows
1. Jack’s Mannequin & Something Corporate at Bamboozle Left – Pomona, CA
2. Matt Wertz & Dave Barnes at The Crocodile Cafe – Seattle, WA
3. Paramore & The Rocket Summer at El Corazon – Seattle, WA
4. Hellogoodbye at The House Of Blues – Hollywood, CA
5. Sherwood at Warped Tour – Chicago, IL/Uprising Fest – Irvine, CA/Bamboozle Left – Pomona, CA

Best New Band
Between The Trees

Most overrated bands
The Killers & Ben Gibbard (Death Cab For Cutie & The Postal Service)

Most underrated band
.Moneen.

Best Album Artwork / Packaging
Between The Trees – The Story & The Song (features the entire To Write Love On Her Arms story)

Best of 2005: DFO

December 15, 2005 By Bryce Jacobson Leave a Comment

Bryce Jacobson

Top 10 Albums
1. Motion City Soundtrack – Commit This To Memory
2. Mae – The Everglow
3. Acceptance – Phantoms
4. Spitalfield – Stop Doing Bad Things
5. The Academy Is… – Almost Here
6. Death Cab For Cutie – Plans
7. Cartel – Chroma
8. Sherwood – Sing, But Keep Going
9. JamisonParker – Sleepwalker
10. The Good Fight – Home Again

Close Calls No Order
Panic! At The Disco – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out
Paramore – All We Know Is Falling
Fall Out Boy – From Under The Cork Tree
Jacks Mannequin – Everything In Transit
Waking Ashland – Composure
Number One Gun – Promises For The Imperfect
Forever Changed – The Need To Feel Alive
Anberlin – Never Take Friendship Personal
Thrice – Vheissu
The Receiving End Of Sirens – Between The Heart And The Synapse
Hidden In Plain View – Life In Dreaming
Coheed And Cambria – Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV
Houston Calls – A Collection of Short Stories
The Spill Canvas – One Fell Swoop
The Starting Line – Based On A True Story
Copeland – In Motion
Over It – Silverstrand

Top EP’s
1. Jimmy Eat World – Stay On My Side Tonight
2. Relient K – Apathetic EP
3. Self Against City – Take It How You Want It
4. The Arrival – Residence Lift
5. Big City Dreams – Honesty
6. Echo Screen – An American Tale
7. Hit The Lights – Until We Get Caught

Most Anticipated For 2006
1. Underoath
2. The Early November
3. The Adademy Is…
4. Angels & Airwaves
5. Mae
6. Thursday
7. Saosin
8. Matchbook Romance
9. From First To Last
10. The Good Fight

Close Calls No Order
Taking Back Sunday
New Found Glory
The Starting Line
Bloc Party
Hellogoodbye
The Used
Less Than Jake
Saves The Day
The Class of 98
The Honorary Title

Best New Bands
1. Panic! At The Disco
2. Paramore
3. The Good Fight
4. Terminal
5. Let Go
6. The Panic Division
7. The Class of 98
8. Valencia
9. Self Against City
10. Sullivan

Best Labels
1. The Militia Group / Sidecho
2. Tooth & Nail
3. Fueled By Ramen / Decaydance
4. Drive-Thru / Rushmore
5. Victory
6. Epitaph
7. Equal Vision
8. Fearless
9. Lobster
10. Takeover

Best Movies No Order
Batman Begins
Harry Potter And The Goblet of Fire
The Chronicles Of Narnia – The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith
Sin City
Charlie And The Chocolate Factory

Most Anticipated Movies For 2006
X-Men 3
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest
Superman Returns
Ice Age 2

Best Tours
Warped Tour
Acceptance, The Receiving End Of Sirens, Cartel, Panic! At The Disco

Past Years
2005 Mid Year Review
Best of 2004

I determine my best of the year by what has moved me the most. If I’m still listening to something that was released at the beginning of the year I know it must be good. And if I’m still listening to something from 2005 this time next year that it must be something that has really caught my ear.

Now lets hear what your thoughts about 2005 are and what your outlook for 2006 is as well.

Julie Watanabe
2005 Best List

So my end of the year review is compiled differently than Bryce’s. Personally, I think that music genres today have become so diverse that comparing them against one another is a daunting and precarious task. Sometimes you want to listen to a record with raw agression, sometimes you just want some music that makes you feel good. Hopefully doing my review this way will help to recognize specific bands’ strengths and get you to listen to them.

Best Overall Album
Imogen Heap “Speak For Yourself”

Best Album Lyrics
Gym Class Heroes “Papercut Chronicles”

Best Crossover Album
The Panic Division “Verses” (electronic/rock)

Best Album Concept
Thrice “Vheissu”

Best Album Music
The Receiving End Of Sirens “Between the Heart and the Synapse”

Best Progressive Album
Gatsbys American Dream “Volcano”

Best Debut Album
Emanuel “Soundtrack To A Headrush”

Best Overseas Album (international talent)
Days In Grief “Behind The Curtain Of A Modern Tomorrow”

Best Complilation Album
Drive-Thru Records & Purevolume.com “Bands You Love, Have Heard Of, And Should Know”

Best Improvement (most growth from previous release)
Chasing Victory “I Call This Abandonment”

Best Album Art
Mae “The Everglow”

Best EP
(Tied) Castles In The Sky “Whispers Are Hollowpoints EP” / Quietdrive “Fall From The Ceiling EP”

Best Movie Soundtrack
Rent OST

Best “Feel Good” Album
The Rocket Summer “Hello, Good Friend”

Best “Driving Music” Album
The Fray “How To Save A Life”

Best “Cathartic” Album
Darkest Hour “Undoing Ruin”

Best Demo
(Tied) Glory Nights – 2005 Demo / Saosin Capitol & Instrumental Demos

Best Label
(Tied) Fueled By Ramen / The Militia Group

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2005 Letdown List

I guess you can’t have the best without knowing the worst…so here are my 2005 disappointments. For the record, not all these albums were bad, I just had higher expectations for them.

Aiden “Nightmare Anatomy”
Blindside “The Great Depression”
Circa Survive “Juturna”
CKY “An Answer Can Be Found”
Finch “Say Hello To Sunshine”
From Autumn To Ashes “Abandon Your Friends”
Maida “Renaissance In Reverse”
Over It “Silverstrand”
Seemless “Seemless”
Story Of The Year “In The Wake Of Determination”
The Juliana Theory “Deadbeat Sweetheart”
Thousand Foot Krutch “The Art Of Breaking”

******************************
2006 On The Rise

Here are albums I’m keeping my eye out for in the new year. There’ll be some HUGE releases from lesser known talents in 2006.

Saosin
Novice
Adair
Dead Poetic
Glory Nights
Rock Kills Kids
Clear Static
Atreyu
The Classic Crime
Brand New
The Ataris
Portugal The Man
Matchbook Romance
Yellowcard
Quietdrive
Damone
Lostprophets
National Product
36 Crazyfists
Goo Goo Dolls
Glory Of This
Rookie Of The Year
More Than A Thousand
New Years Day
Day Two
Rides Again
Hit The Lights
Waterdown
Hellogoodbye
October Fall
Strike Fire Fall
Brandtson

Joe Kominowski

Here’s my tops of 2005. Sorry it’s been forever since I’ve posted anything. My New Year’s Resolution is to get back on track here. I really miss the whole music scene. Look for more reviews/interviews and posts coming up soon!

Top 10 Albums of 2005
1. Fall Out Boy- From Under the Cork Tree
2. Motion City Soundtrack- Commit this to Memory
3. The Academy IsÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã‚¦- Almost Here
4. Panic! At the Disco- A Fever You CanÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t Sweat Out
5. Hidden in Plain View- Life in Dreaming
6. JackÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s Mannequin- Everything in Transit
7. Gym Class Heroes- Papercut Chronicles
8. Rocket Summer- Hello Good Friend
9. Cartel- Chroma
10. Rufio- Comfort of Home

Close Calls:
Spitalfield- Stop Doing Bad Things
JamisonParker- Sleepwalker
Midnight Aria- The Deep End
Sydney- Self Titled
Paramore- All We Know is Falling
Starting Line- Based on a True Story
Alkaline Trio- Crimson
Spill Canvas- One Fell Swoop
Just Surrender- If These Streets Could Talk
Unwritten Law- HereÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s to the Mourning
Skeptics- Hearts and Spades

Best Ãƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã…”Non-Genre”
1. Kanye West- Late Registration

Best Song Names of 2004:
1. Panic! At the Disco- Lying is the Most Fun a Girl Can Have Without Taking her Clothes Off
2. Fall Out Boy- Our Lawyer Made us Change the Name of this Song So We DonÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢t Get Sued
3. Spitalfield- So I Heard You Joined a Convent
4. Sydney- Got Some Purple StuffÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã‚¦ Hey Sunny D!

Most Anticipated for 2006:
1. Yellowcard
2. Brand New!!! (P-P-P-P-Please!!!)
3. Taking Back Sunday
4. Matchbook Romance
5. The Academy Is..
6. Hit the Lights
7. Something Corporate
8. Race The Sun
9. Senses Fail
10. My Chemical Romance

Close Calls:
Hawthorne Heights
Ataris
Midtown
New Found Glory
12 Summers Old
Novice
Punchline
Jimmy Eat World
Sugarcult
Fall Out Boy (I hear possibly a late 2006 which would obviously blow everything else away)

Best New Bands of 2005
1. Panic! At The Disco
2. JackÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢s Mannequin
3. Midnight Aria
4. Skeptics
5. Sydney
6. Paramore
7. Just Surrender
8. Spoken
9. A Day at the Fair
10. The Panic Division

Best Label of 2005
1. Fueled By Ramen / Decaydance
2. Militia Group
3. Epitaph
4. Drive Thru
5. Victory
6. One Eleven
7. Equal Vision
8. Takeover

Best Movies
1. 40 Year Old Virgin
2. Wedding Crashers
3. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Best Single:
1. Fall Out Boy- Sugar WeÃƒ¢Ã¢”š¬Ã¢”ž¢re Goin Down

What do you think? Way off, right on? let us know…

Valida Prentice

My Best of 2005 List…
Music is very personal. Yes, some is of higher quality (production, talent) but what really matters is how we breathe the music in and out – how we interact with the music and how the music interacts with us. What I feel the deepest connection to is generally what I listen to the most; my list will reflect that (I think… I haven’t made it yet).

Best Overall Album
Coldplay – X&Y
Runner-up: Motion City Soundtrack – Commit This to Memory
Honorable Mention: Coheed and Cambria – Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV

Album Most Indicative of My Year
Sherwood – Sing, But Keep Going

Biggest Surprises of 05
Surprised that I liked it as much as I did: Steel Train – Twilight Tales from the Prairies of the Sun
Surprised that I disliked it as much as I did: Daphne Loves Derby – On the Strength of All Convinced

Best EP of 2005
Straylight Run – Prepare to Be Wrong

Best Album in a Foreign Language of 2005
El Sueno del Morfeo – S/t

Biggest Letdown of 05
Finch – Say Hello to Sunshine

Songs of 05 That Will Stick with Me
Acceptance – “Different”
The All-American Rejects – “It Ends Tonight”
Waking Ashland – “Hands on Deck”

Best Chill Music of 05
Iron & Wine – The Woman King EP

Best Feel-Good Album of 05
Jack’s Mannequin – Everything in Transit

Best Driving Music of 05
Fall Out Boy – From Under the Cork Tree

Most Overlooked of 05
Copeland – In Motion

Most Overhyped of 05
Panic! At the Disco – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out

Best Music on a TV Series
The OC

Best 2004 Release That Everyone Thinks Was from 2005
The Killers – Hot Fuss (I saw it on the “Best of 2005” rack in Sam Goody the other day)

2005 Break-Up That Saddened Me the Most
Name Taken

Trevor Bivens

This is lame because there’s so much I wish I could include in my top ten.

Top 10 Full Lengths
1. Fall Out Boy – From Under the Cork Tree
2. theAudition – Controversy Loves Company
3. Bloc Party – Silent Alarm
4. Anberlin – Never Take Friendship Personal
5. Paramore – All We Know Is Falling
6. Jamisonparker – Sleepwalker
7. theAcademyIs… – Almost Here
8. Motion City Soundtrack – Commit This to Memory
9. Spitalfield – Stop Doing Bad Things
10. TIE – Panic! At the Disco – A Fever You Can Sweat Out / Gym Class Heroes – The Papercut Chronicles

Honorable Mentions

The All American Rejects – Move Along
As Cities Burn – Son, I Loved You At Your Darkest
Cartel – Chroma
Chiodos – All’s Well That Ends Well
Circa Survive – Juturna
Copeland – In Motion
Daphne Loves Derby – On The Strength of All Convinced
The Decemberists – Picaresque
Emery – The Question
Finch – Say Hello To Sunshine
Funeral For a Friend – Hours
Jack’s Mannequin – Everything In Transit
June – If You Speak Any Faster
Just Surrender – If These Streets Could Talk
Lydia – This December; It’s One More and I’m Free
Mae – The Everglow
The Most Serene Republic – Underwater Cinematographer
Nightmare of You – S/T

Top EPs
A Healing Season – Raise the Ground
Self Against City – Take It How You Want It
Halifax – A Writer’s Reference(Reissue)

Letdowns
1. The Starting Line – Based on a True Story
2. Over It – Silverstrand
3. The Junior Varsity – Wide Eyed

Worst Album of 2005
Aiden – Nightmare Anatomy

Top Labels
1. Fueled By Ramen/Decaydance
2. Victory
3.Tooth and Nail

Best Spoken Word Album
Dane Cook – Retaliation

Top DVDs
Clandestine Industries – Release the Bats
Northstar – The Uncomfortable Camera
Epitaph Tour 2005
Sugarcult – Back to the Disaster
Underoath – They’re Only Chasing Safety Special Edition

—————————————–
Random Stuff:

Best Makeout Album
Jamison Parker – Sleepwalker

Best Driving Music
Paramore – All We Know Is Falling

Best Album to Convert Radio-Junkies
Panic! At the Disco – A Fever That You Can’t Sweat Out

Biggest Breakout of 2005
Fall Out Boy

Worst Breakup of 2005
Name Taken

Best Cover Song of 2005
Underoath – Wrapped Around Your Finger(The Police)
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Looking Forward To:
Lostprophets
Brand New
From First to Last
Spitalfield
Atreyu
Matchbook Romance
Taking Back Sunday
Bloc Party