Kitchen Toonz

Liverpool based act Karl McCann released his latest album  KXI  earlier this September. It doesn't disappoint, providing a mellow, introspective, lofi acoustic journey. The guitar work is a highlight here, delivering somber, reflective riffs and interesting chords. They manage to be engaging while simultaneously providing a great background atmosphere and mood. Layered on top are low, shoegazey vocals that help create a really relaxing soundscape. What I really like about this album is that because of the talented guitar playing and song writing, it never feels stale or repetitive. Whether it be an instrument drawing you in or a fun vocal hook or chorus, each song feels unique while still maintaining the overall vibe of the album. Sad, wistful, introspective. You can get lost in the music and your thoughts, and I think that's a sign of good writing. I would say the only negative to this album is the production. There are moments where it feels like the mic is almost clippi...

Knocked Loose dropped their much awaited second LP last month and it's even heavier than their first. They bring back their signature sound from Laugh Tracks and throw in a few new sounds. I particularly like the incorporation of their guitarist's vocals and the more complex, death metal style riffing they do in songs like Forget Your Name  and By The Grave . I think that's where the love ends for me though. Don't get me wrong, I don't dislike this album. I don't think I'm particularly fond of it either though. Maybe I hyped it up too much in my head and that's why I'm disappointed. It just doesn't pull me in or make me want to listen to it back to back, over and over. There are individual songs I'm happy to put on, but as a whole it doesn't do it for me. While heavy riffs are awesome, A Different Shade Of Blue  can feel very repetitive at times. I think the songwriting was actually a negative for me. Oftentimes it felt like it would...

2018 ended with a bang with the release of The Parallel's full length, 'Weaver'. Check these guys out if you enjoy progressive metalcore in the vein of Structures or Intervals. This album combines chaotic and dissonant riffs with melodic choruses and complex guitar work to create a really exciting listening experience. In my experience bands can often overdo the dissonant style riffs until it becomes almost boring to listen to, and the The Parallel does not do this. There are enough dynamics and change so the album doesn't become stale. The drummer Ron Totman does really great cleans, and I believe both guitarists participate in vocals as well. Brett Cox's vocals during choruses are a particular highlight, but they're all really talented. The ancient Greek theme throughout the album is also pretty neat-o. If you haven't checked The Parallel out yet, definitely have a listen. This is a pretty unique album, which is saying something in a world saturate...

Joyce Manor are a blend of punk, pop, and emo music. Never Hungover Again is their third studio album, released in 2014 and was my first introduction to this band, and holy guacamole what an introduction. This album is amazing, and my only critique is that it's finished too soon, clocking in at under twenty minutes. There's a mix of slow and fast songs, and each one is as catchy as the last. The band manages to capture that hopeful, angsty feeling of youth and blend it with their sound to create something really unique and honest sounding. This album is short and sweet, just like this post. Definitely check it out if you're on the hunt for something fun, catchy, and easy to listen to. Top Three Tracks: Heart Tattoo The introduction with the bass, drums, and vocals opens into a simple, catchy song that's easy to sing along to. The Jerk This song starts off incredibly strong, flowing into another fun, catchy tune. Heated Swimming Pool Str...

I think I discovered Protest The Hero when I was in grade 10, so I was about 14 or 15. After that point I think I listened to this album almost everyday for a year while I was going to class. Kezia is probably my favourite album of all time. Protest The Hero released their first LP, Kezia, in 2005. The soaring vocals Rory puts out over top the musicianship of the other members of this band really put this album at the forefront of Canadian metal, and at the top of my list. As a guitarist, I was instantly fascinated with the guitar work of of Tim and Luke. You don't need to play any instrument to appreciate it though. Every track is unique enough so that you're always left amazed and wondering what's gonna come next. I think that's why this album stands out so much to me. Nothing gets stale, there's no filler. It's one banging track after another. If you like mathy, technical metal with a lot of clean vocals, you won't be disappointed with this albu...

I thought it would be fun to start a blog and talk about music I like, and maybe instruments and other things music related. You get to discover new music, and I get to talk. It's a win-win. Anyways, if anyone is reading this I hope you enjoy.