What I’m Listening To #10

What I’m Listening To, the blog series in which I reflect on all the music I’ve been exploring during the last few months. Press play on the playlist below, listen along and join me on this inspirational journey. Post your recommendations in the comments!

Muse – Will of the People
At first, I was hesitant to give Muse’s latest album a listen. There has been some criticism and I can see why: the new songs and lyrics are not always profound and it can certainly feel like a greatest hits collection. But, you gotta give credit where credit’s due. The band skillfully manages to jump from one style to the next, proving their musical evolution and mastery of different instruments. All that while maintaining a sense of humor with tracks like “You Make Me Feel Like It’s Halloween” and “We Are Fucking Fucked”.

Five Times August – Silent War
Recommended by a friend of mine. This album is mostly just singer-songwriter Brad Skistimas on an acoustic guitar, passionately delivering one protest song after the other. And it’s quite a refreshing approach. The fact that these songs got him banned from Bandcamp shows you the exact relevancy of this music. You’ll still find it easily though, so go on and have a listen!

Zac Brown Band – You Get What You Give
Finally, I took the time to explore some country music. With every visit to Lucas ON AIR, I’m reminded of the genre and wonder why I don’t actively listen to it myself. Most recently, it was the song “Knee Deep” from this album that inspired me to dive into country. One curious thing I keep noticing is that somehow, most country songs invoke a feeling of nostalgia in me. I’m not sure yet what that means. To be continued I guess…

Brothers Osborne – Skeletons
During my little country detour, Brothers Osborne were second on my list after discovering Zac Brown Band. Compared to them however, the Brothers fuel their style with more rock energy. Cherry on top is singer T.J.’s deep baritone (I think) voice, akin to that of Johnny Cash. “Skeletons” has grown a lot on me and has broadened my understanding of what country music is and what it can sound like.

Chris Webby – Wednesday Before Last
No blog is complete without some flavor of hip hop. Chris Webby is an independent artist who’s managed to get pretty succesful on his own. I first came across his “Raw Thoughts” songs and then gave this new album a try. What stands out to me are Chris’ raw thoughts, the lovely guitar work and underground production. Best song by far is closing track “Whistle”: meaningful lyrics and a beautiful melody collide to produce an uplifting, yet emotional ending. Definitely one with replay value!

S P E C I A L
S I N G L E S
Songs that have caught my attention.

DI-RECT – “How My Heart Was Won”
Their third song that I like in a row. Patiently waiting for a full-length…

Linkin Park – “Fighting Myself”
Aggressive instruments, cool sampling, passionate vocals and contagious energy. Pure awesomeness.

grandson – “Half My Heart”
Melancholic melody on an unusual rhythm. I should try his new album soon!

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