Mumdance - "Don't Forget Me Now" Video

This video is good for a laugh. A good portion was done with stop motion photography which I'm a huge fan of. If you enjoy Mumdance you can check out their Myspace. You can also check out his SoundCloud page.

The Holiday's - "Broken Bones" video

This video is in support of The Holidays debut effort "Post Paradise" which was released just last week. The song is pretty good. The video is campy and gimmicky but its worth a watch for the song. It reminds me of a song from the 90's but the name escapes me. Oh well, here is the video for "Broken Bones"

Chromeo - "Business Casual" Review

Its easy for someone like me to pass up listening to Chromeo. At first listen they are just another band trying to ride the successes of bands emulating and most of the time ripping off 80's music. Its quite the opposite as you dive deeper into the "Business Casual" album. I've already posted the video to the song "Hot Mess" which is a really amazing song. It doesn't stop there, you constantly barraged by great songs that are heavily influenced by 80's songs. This is also one of the few times where I feel that the vocoder is a useful tool. If you want to use an auto tune or vocoder in your music that's OK, but make sure you can sing or have someone who can sing. Otherwise your waisting every ones time by being fake. When used correctly the vocoder is a entertaining tool and Chromeo use it really well.

If I had anything bad about the album is that, while the vocal work on the album is really good, it does tend to get boring. The singer Dave 1 ( David Macklovitch) has a great voice, he just doesn't do much with it. Seems like every song is exactly the same vocally. When your making a pop album this is a no no because it tends to make your music blend. The music itself however stays strong. All of the music was arranged by P-Thugg (Patrick Gemayel) other than the guitars. He has a real ear for what sounds work well together. Songs like "Night By Night" and "When the Night Falls" stand out as the albums strongest when it comes to the style of music.

Chromeo are a really fun group and "Business Casual" is a really fun album to listen to. Even though the album has a few hiccups here and there its still a great album and will take you back to the 80's when music was much simpler.

"Business Casual" gets 3.5 vocoder's out of 5

1. Hot Mess
2. I'm Not Contagious
3. You Make It Rough
4. Don't Turn The Lights On
5. Grow Up
6. Night By Night
7. Don't Walk Away
8. When The Night Falls
9. The Right Type
10. J'ai Claque La Porte

Sleigh Bells - "Treats" Review

There is no mistake about it, Sleigh Bells are a pop group. Through and through. So when I tell you that I like this, I want you to really understand what I'm saying, the gravity of it. I Brandon Simmons, like something that is basically a pop record. So don't ever tell me I discriminate damn it!

Sleigh Bells is the master mind of Derek E. Miller who takes care of the music, guitars, and producing and Alexis Krauss who is on vocal duty. Miller was previously in a band called Poison the Well (one of my favorites) and Krauss was in Rubyblue, a teenpop group. The music they do together is undeniably pop and the influences are plenty. There are songs that seem more electro than the pop that is the norm right now. If you know what your listening to, if you understand the semantics of music and the subtleties of genre's you'll get a lot out of "Treats". The primarily Hip Hop beats will please one crowd while in the same song crushing guitar riffs abound for another audience. All of this is brought together by Krauss's vocal work which varies from straight pop to siren singing. All of these elements seem to blend flawlessly, but there are underlying problems with the album. Because of the pop nature of Sleigh Bells songs do tend to blend, meaning stuff starts to sound the same. Also while Miller did a pretty good job on producing the album, some of the songs have a grainy distorted sound that is honestly tough on the ears at time. In fact the first song might be enough to turn most away because of the production values.

Sleigh Bells does something that most pop albums have a hard time doing and that is making me bob my head. There are some truly good songs on "Treats" and if your a fan of the female pop genre I challenge you to give this album a spin.

"Treats" gets 3.5 infinity guitars out of 5

1. "Tell 'Em"
2. "Kids"
3. "Riot Rhythm"
4. "Infinity Guitars"
5. "Run the Heart"
6. "Rachel"
7. "Rill Rill"
8. "Crown On the Ground"
9. "Straight A's"
10. "A/B Machines"
11. "Treats"

Born Without Bones - "Say Hello" Stream and Name your price download.

Here's some pretty good alternative rock. Born Without Bones feature's Jim Creighton of Therefore I Am fame. This band could hang with most of the alternative bands out there today. This album can be yours for the cool price of.... well whatever you want. The band says you name your price. Which means you can have it for free if you feel so inclined. I say give the guys a couple bucks if you enjoy their works and maybe they will make more? I'm gonna out myself as a softy but among my favorite songs on the album were "Sound of a Crowded Room" and "Sunday". Give it a listen.

NIN Live feat. Dillinger Escape Plan

I recently signed up with vimeo so that I could try and find more material for the site. One of the things I stumbled on was a channel that featured Nine Inch Nails songs live, but with really good audio quality. I'm not the biggest fan of NIN, but I enjoy their work and I really enjoy Dillinger's stuff. This is the song "Wish" which Dillinger actually covered for an album.

The video is shot was a hand cam. Its decent enough quality, but the lighting effects do make this video hard to watch. The audio is perfect, so if you want to just keep browsing while listening I would understand.

Iron Thrones Live

Iron Thrones have released a live recording via their band camp page. I love this band, they are whats right about progressive metal right now. If your a fan of Between the Buried and Me or The Contortionist you have to listen to this. Iron Thrones released their sophomore effort "The Wretched Sun" earlier this year and it is a must own if your a metal fan. Please enjoy "...and the sky came falling down" live.

The Republic of Wolves - "You Missed the Point" MP3 Stream

Here's a song that I can get behind. It might be the best new song I've heard today! Nothing super amazing about The Republic of Wolves, they seem to be moving in the right direction with their music. You can download the song below if your a fan. You can always visit their official Myspace page.

Download ‘You Missed the Point’.

Localish Artist Spotlight : Coma Cinema

Coma Cinema isn't something that I normally would be into but I figured since the guy who makes this music lives in Spartenberg, S.C. I would at least send what attencion I can his way. Theres a great artical on Mat Cothran they guy who makes this music under the Coma Cinema moniker at Paste Magazine. I've posted the player below that is streaming the song "Caroline, Please Kill Me". Not really what I look for but maybe you'll think differently. Support local artist right?

Vampires Everywhere - Single for free(kind of)

I'm not a huge fan of having to use facebook or twitter to subscribe to something I know is only going to spam me with stuff for me to buy. Those this would have to be up to you to do. The song "Undead Heart" is available for free HERE. The songs not bad, but I'm not sure it would be worth the effort for most people.

Just in time for the holidays.

Are you bored with the same old cookie shapes you make every single year? Easter you make eggs, Christmas you make tree's, summer you make.... round. I present to you....

"The Ninja Bread Men" For only 8.99 you too can be enjoying the ass kickery. I don't really enjoy sweets and I would eat these because of how awesome they were, and because they might kill me if I don't!

Ever heard of Blaqk Audio? Me either.

I guess everyone need to get on the duo band bandwagon. I think its all I've had to post lately. This song is very underwhelming but the people who made it are some significance being from the band AFI. Davey Havok and Jade Puget work together to make this Depeche Mode ripoff, and scar AFI's fleeting popularity as well. This song is called "Down Here"

Down Here by Blaqk Audio

The Bird and the Bee - "Interpreting the Masters Volume 1" Review

This review is a tad late. The album was released back in march of 2010, but better late than never. I love the sound of The Bird and the Bee. It reminds me a lot of a band I love, Pomplamoose. Both have a talented leading lady and both stylings are similar. The Bird and the Bee are a bit more electronic than Pomplamoose. So when I first heard "Interpreting the Masters" I was hooked not only because it had a great sound but it paid homage to one of my very favorite 80's bands Hall and Oates. Actually to say that is pays "homage" to Hall and Oates is an understatement considering the album is almost entirely Hall and Oats covers. Doing a cover album can be really tough. You want to honor the artist song, while still putting your spin on it. Too many covers out in the music world are literal translations of the song they cover. That's not bad, but its playing it safe. This band does a great job of doing the songs justice and also mixing them up a bit. They never try to overshadow the greatness of the original track, and you can tell that these guys are true fans of Hall and Oates. The songs "I Can't Go For That" and "One on One" are my personal favorite Hall and Oates tracks and Bird and the Bee's version are perfect in my eyes. Their version of "Maneater" is almost haunting at times with Shirley Manson doing obvious backing vocals on the song. The only song on the album that is a original is the first song "Heard It on the Radio" and it sets the mood for the rest of the album, almost teasing you of what your in store for later on.

Cover albums are hard to do, but The Bird and the Bee do an amazing job at giving us what we love about Hall and Oates and showing off their own flare. Would it be possible for me to say a cover album could be one of my favorites of the year? In this case not at all.

Interpreting the Masters Volume 1: A Tribute to Daryl Hall and John Oates gets 4.5 "Maneaters" out of 5



Track listing

"Heard It on the Radio"
"I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)"
"Rich Girl"
"Sara Smile"
"Kiss on My List"
"Maneater"
"She’s Gone"
"Private Eyes"
"One on One"

Gamecock out. Thats not a sex position!

Rock Out (With Your Gamecock Out) aka The Spurrier Rap, that is what this song is called. No seriously. We here at IHBC are supporters of Gamecock football but this.... this is going a bit too far. Sure the Gamecocks did really well these season, but do they need a song? Well, you can decide for yourself.

EKTOMORF - 'Last Fight' Video Released

Lets play a game. No I'm not opening with a horror movie tag line. I really want to play a game. Do have any idea who this band is emulating? This might be shameless "emulating" (rip off). The songs not bad. The hooks catchy and the vocals are straight forward and not flashy which is nice. Here's "Last Fight"



This video is in support of the bands new album "Redemption" (wow original) which is being released Dec 17th 2010. If you care here is the track listing.

01. Last Fight
02. Redemption
03. I'm In Hate
04. God Will Cut You Down
05. Stay Away
06. Never Should
07. Sea Of My Misery
08. The One (feat. Danko Jones)
09. Revolution
10. Cigany
11. Stigmatized
12. Anger
13. Kill Me Now

Ok give up on the whole "emulating" bit. Soulfly. Now don't you feel silly.

Bret Michaels covers "What I Got" horribly.

I blame the idiots who watch is reality TV show. Seriously Bradley Nowell is spinning in his grave. Some things are better left alone. Bret you might have had a career at one time but don't try to ruin songs to reboot something that has long since past. I think I've done a better version of the song while int he shower.

In Honor of my mom calling my Bro. the gay child.

Seriously, she said that shit. Like for reals.

Guster - "On the Ocean" video.

We here at IHBC were kinda disappointed that the a video that Guster did for the song "On the Ocean" had such few hits. Its a shame, you've got all of these rap artist with millions of hits but when it comes to the actual music it gets left in the dark. Well we aren't going to stand for it. View the video below and if you like it, better  yet, if you don't care click the video and like it on youtube. Its time this stuff got out there people.

Happy Thanksgiving

I just wanted to take a second to say that I'm thankful for a great many things this year. This would be a super boring post if it got personal so I'll just stick with my family and friends! They truly are a reason to be thankful everyday. Oh and video games.... and music. OK that's it (and metal). I hope your holiday is super awesome!(and mountain dew) Have safe trips if you are going places and beware the "Itus" (don't think that's too racist).(and racism) OK the last one was a joke. (and the Internets)

Have a better Turkey day with videos from Terabetoni and Crown the Lost

Start your Thanksgiving out right, WITH REAL METAL! First up is Finnish band Terabetoni. This song is great. Has an awesome viking sound. Not sure if that's because it does, or because they sing with Finnish vocals. The second video is from "Crown the Lost" They have a more classic metal sound. They remind me of Seventh Wonder, and hints of Dragonforce and Dream Theater. Both songs are up beat and fun. So bring out the axe and grab a winch (or male equivalent thereof), and eat yourself some turkey!

Terabetoni - Metalliolut

Crown the Lost - Separate Blood From Waste

Widow Sunday - "Forever Sleeps"

I tried really hard not to post this video. I've been seeing it in the news for a couple days now and I refused because I thought it was just gonna be another deathcore song. I was wrong its more In flames, The Haunted than anything else. It won't be winning awards and most of you probably won't even watch it. Its a pretty damn good metal song though. "Forever Sleeps" is a single from the "In These Rusted Veins" album released this year. I think I'm gonna check out more from these guys, you watch the video.

Smashing Pumpkins - "Tom Tom" New Song

After sitting in the typing position listening to the new song "Tom Tom" one question comes to mind. Do we really need a new Smashing Pumpkins album? I mean really need one! The song isn't bad, in fact I like it but this isn't any different from the stuff the Corgan did with Zwan. Why call it Smashing Pumpkins? Oh yeah... to sell albums. All hail the big green!!!

ILL Nino - "Against the Wall" video

I used to love Ill Nino. I thought the Spanish elements that they brought to their nu metal was awesome. Well the guys are still going on strong. This year they signed with Victory Records and released "Dead New World" last month. I'm not gonna lie, I kinda dig this song. I'm down with the nu metal sound that it wreaks of. Here is "Against the Wall"

The Maine - "Right Girl" video

I'm not even gonna act like I've heard of this band before. Fact is I haven't. Can't say I'm too terribly impressed by this video either. Seems like the kinda music the kids are listening to these days. How was there not a band called The Maine before now??? That just kinda seems like a no brainer. I'm sure soon enough we will get bands called The Columbia South Carolina's. Here's "Right Girl"...

Gorilla Vs. Bear Nov 2010 mix

The totally awesome website Gorilla vs. Bear released their mix or music for the month of November. There are some really great songs in this mix. You can listen to the entire thing here or you can download it from their site. I also challenge you to take a look around the site. Its full of awesome stuff.

01 can we get much higher
02 jj :: i’m the one / money on my mind
03 young galaxy :: peripheral visionaries
04 korallreven :: honey mine
05 win win :: releaserpm (feat. lizzi of gang gang dance)
06 the samps :: where you from
07 portable morla :: my digital window
08 chuck person :: lightning strikes
09 intruders :: together
10 ghostface :: together baby
11 twin shadow :: castles in the snow (com truise remix)
12 steve mason :: boys outside (keep shelly in athens remix)
13 ariel pink’s haunted graffiti :: round & round (little loud remix)
14 korallreven :: honey mine (lissvik remix)
15 CFCF :: it was never meant to be this way (piano version)

Popout

Original audio source (gorilla-vs.-bear-november-2010.mp3)

INTRONAUT - Live Stream

Awesome prog-rock band Intronaut played and recorded the show live and are now streaming it to the masses. If your a fan of Mastodon or Kylesa you should really check out Intronaunt's newest effort "Valley of Smoke". I love how good the audio is on the recording and its cool that a band would be smart enough to think to even do this. It takes balls to play a set in front of a camera.

We Came As Romans - "To Move On Is To Grow" video

Here is the official video for "To Move On Is To Grow" from the band We Came As Romans. Looks like this might be the first single from their untitled follow up to last years "To Plant A Seed". This really isn't my thing but I hope someone enjoys it.

Black Eyed Pea's make me want to facepalm

Who are these people who love the Black Eyed Pea's? This is just terrible. I know you love it though, so against my better judgment heres a new video for you. Listen as the rip off artist of years past.

Suspyre post demo of a new song

The songs titled "The Divided Son" and its pretty awesome. I wouldn't go far as to call it progressive metal, but its most definitely in the progressive genre. Not sure if I'm a fan of the vocal work either, but as it is a demo I'm sure that could change. Enjoy "The Divided Son" and check out this link for more information about the band and the song itself

Two free albums from Atlas Sound - (Fixed Links)

Want some free music? How about two free albums? Atlas Sound is the solo project from Deerhunter frontman Bradford Cox. I personally haven't listened to the albums yet, but you can't beat free music. Plus Deerhunters newest effort was pretty good! So download them and have some good music for your thanksgiving meal.

ATLAS SOUND: BEDROOM DATABANK VOL. 2

DOWNLOAD

ATLAS SOUND: BEDROOM DATABANK VOL. 3

DOWNLOAD

Here We Go Magic - "Casual"

Heres a very interesting video from a really good band. I'm gonna warn you now, its not really safe for work. The song "Casual" comes from the bands latest LP "Pidgeons".

Miniature Tigers - Dark Tower

Great song. Reminds me a little bit of Fleet Foxes at times. Give it a listen.

The Restoration - Drowning Mr. & Mrs. Palmer Live Studio Performance

As Thanksgiving approaches and I am almost on my way back home to South Carolina, I can't wait to see some good friends. So I figured what better way to get pumped to see some of my missed friends than to watch them perform online! The Restoration definitely has a very original sound and I love it. There is so much talent going into this band from each member. I can't wait to see where they are in the future! I will have a full review of the band and album shortly but for now just enjoy a great performance from the guys (and girl). 

The National - New B-Side "Wake Up Your Saints"

The National is releasing a new expanded version of their newest album "Violet High" next week and this is one of the songs from the album thats leaked today. The album which was first released in May received stellar reviews. You can check out the track below. You can definitely tell that the song was going to be put on the album. I also understand why they took it off the ultimately released version. Its not a bad song, its just doesn't really fit with the feel of "Violet High"

These are the most controversial songs? Really?

Maybe its the Brits? Maybe they are all a bunch of nellies. I don't know but this list is super weak if you ask me. Even after listening to most of the songs I don't get it. Maybe they did the survey with people over 90? Well "Kim" is kinda hardcore. I mean its hard to even listen to. The Prodigy one is only bad because it eludes to beating women. Relax is about something sexual?? I'm just really disappointed. There are bands that have worst names than the lyrics in these songs. Leave it to the British. I think maybe I'll make my own list of songs? Maybe that would be fun. I've listened to some pretty evil crap in my day. If you have a song that deserves to be on the list comment and tell us what it is, or comment on Facebook. We Americans have to fight for whats wrong in music!!! ummm that sounded better in my head.


Top 10 Most Controversial Songs
As selected by the British public
PRS study (2010)

1. Smack My B*tch Up – The Prodigy


2. God Save The Queen – The Sex Pistols


3. Relax – Frankie Goes To Hollywood


4. Kim – Eminem


5. Killing In The Name – Rage Against The Machine


6. Ebeneezer Goode – The Shamen


7. Suicide Solution – Ozzy Osbourne *See Video Below*

8. Get Your Gunn – Marilyn Manson


9. Angel of Death – Slayer


10. Dear God - XTC

Lord Huron - "Mighty" EP and "Into the Sun" Stream

Not sure if interesting is the right word to describe Lord Huron's sound. I like it, its happy and its definitely different. Its always nice to stumble on songs like these because there is always potential for a new favorite band. This is the "Mighty" EP and "Into the Sun" by Lord Huron and thats about all I know.

Lord Huron: Into The Sun (7" Edit) by Hit City USA

The Sword - "Lawless Lands" video

Now this is an awesome video. The Sword have really surprised me with their popularity of late. I guess they are in the same vain musically as Mastodon. I love the Sci fi element to this video. It reminds me of the cheesy videos The Darkness used to release. Enjoy "Lawless Lands". The Swords album "Warped Riders" is available now.