Dangerkids - "Hostage"

In this new post of "Spotlight Songs," I will be reviewing the song, "Hostage" by the band, Dangerkids!

Quite a title for a song, isn't it?

However, even if that is the name of the song, the message is very distinct and clear, and it is not about the act of kidnapping. 

When I first heard "Hostage" in 2013, I did not quite know what to initially think. I was feeling a sense of excitement, while at the same time, also feeling confusion. The intro to "Hostage" was unlike anything I heard before, or what I was currently listening to. I think now is the perfect time to admit that once that first verse of lyrics kicked in, I was completely, and positively taken over by the climactic aura of the song. 

Dangerkids

Suddenly, I knew the main reason why I was so intrigued. One of the vocalists from "Dangerkids," Tyler Smyth, (located in the middle of the photo above) managed to surprise me with his lyrical and vocal style. In "Hostage," he raps in a similar but different format to Linkin Park's rapper, emcee, and vocalist, Mike Shinoda. 

It was almost like I was listening to an "alternative" Linkin Park, with the recession of turntables from Joe Hahn, aka "Mr.Hahn." Listening to "Hostage" was like listening to rather a fusion-style of 'Linkin Park' and 'Hollywood Undead.' However, what all three of them share in common, and what is related to me is that I like all three bands. 

Sorry if I went off on a tangent...back to the song! =P

"Hostage" by Dangerkids has many climactic, and nonlinear guitar riffs that complement the vocals, and background instruments of the song. In my opinion, vocal prominence is evident in this song, showing off and reflecting darker emotions, in efforts to uplift the broken spirits of other people. The reason I say that is because, the message of "Hostage" by Dangerkids is about being who you are, and not allowing yourself to fall and beckon to struggles and obstacles that you may encounter in your life.

"Hostage" by Dangerkids, in my opinion is a very good listen, and even if you may not like the genre, there might be something in the song that you can take from, and appreciate. =)

Without further adieu, I welcome all of you, "Hostage!"

 

Sincerely,
Julian.

The xx - "Intro"

Hello all,

This marks the second entry of Draftboard's section, "Spotlight Songs," where I review a song, and relate them to my own personal experiences with them. In this post, I will be reviewing the song, "Intro" by the band, The xx. 

The xx

"Intro" by The xx, is a song that I fell in love with, back in the days of watching the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. You know, one could think that watching and re-watching the same commercial of short track speed skating star, Apolo Ohno, could get weary a little. For me, it did exactly that, but only because I couldn't stop myself from listening to the song playing in the background of it! =P.

Eight-Time, Short Track Speed Skating Medalist, Apolo Ohno

After finding the song that was played in the commercial, and repeatedly replaying it, "Intro" by The xx, became an instant fave of mine. After the 2010 Olympics came to a close, any other time where I would hear "Intro," it would give me a sense of focus, and a sense of adrenaline. I have no idea whether actually hearing it for the first time while watching the Olympics did the trick, or if I naturally got pumped while listening to the song. 

An interesting fact about "Intro" by The xx, is that the song has no lyrics, at all. Actually, besides the beat, it only features some background vocals, but that's what a good song does sometimes. It lets the instruments do the talking, and in "Intro," that's exactly what it does. In the end, "Intro" just stuck with me as a song that I really like, and hope that some of you guys will too! =), enjoy the song. 



Sincerely,
Julian.

Oasis - "Wonderwall"

Hello all,

This is the first post for Draftboard's section, 'Spotlight Songs.' In this section, there will be provided video and audio, for my personal favorite songs and artists that I am listening to at the moment. I will be reviewing each song that is posted, and relating it to personal experience. Don't hesitate to post a song or video of your own as well! 

In this post, I will be reviewing the song, "Wonderwall" by rock band, Oasis.

Siblings Liam & Noel Gallagher in their band, Oasis

"Wonderwall" by Oasis is often perceived to be Oasis's greatest hit. While this may be true, in the past, I sometimes found myself wondering why I loved this song so much. It's sort of funny, in a way. Back then, when I was really interested into the TV show, 'Lost,' they had an episode where one character (Charlie Pace), was playing "Wonderwall" on his acoustic guitar.

Character 'Charlie Pace' on the TV Show 'Lost'

After watching that episode, I can safely say that I absolutely fell in love with the song. Hearing its original version by Oasis was refreshing, with its simple melody, its true care to lyrics, and its overall message of desperation, mixed in with feelings of love, and hope to find love.

For me, "Wonderwall" is one of those songs that speak to your soul. I wouldn't call myself a spiritualist, but I sure for one love this song a lot, to the point where whenever I hear it, it strikes a 'chord' (I love puns, =D). 

Oasis is one of my all time favorite bands, and I still can't seem to get "Wonderwall," out of my head, aha. To me, it's a song that will "live forever" (for those who like puns as much as me, =P). 

Thanks for reading this post everyone! As a reward for reading this entire post, enjoy "Wonderwall!"

 

Sincerely,
Julian.