Very sorry folks... computer issues once more and have solved it this time with a new setup! I was jumping on the other day with a relatives system but didn't have time to pull together a write-up unfortunately and thought I posted something about it in here. I apologize for the hiccup but will squeeze out these final few rounds in no time!
Round 8: 90's-10's
It's been a tough round to judge because basically everyone really sent some awesome stuff! After you guys see the scores I'm gonna hear "Are you serious?!?"..
NekovVon Hertzen Brothers - Insomniac (
8.0)
Really like the style of the band and the approach feels like something I would love. The song doesn't really feel like it stretches out as much as the band sounds it's capable of which isn't a knock so much as a compliment of the band. I really do like the song but I feel like I like the sound of the band even more.
Big HathOpeth - Bleak (
8.0)
I've been waiting for someone to send me some Opeth. This is a band that as often as they are discussed in such high regard I've felt I should eventually come to at some point. The growls will be an issue for me. I just have a hard time with growls as a constant vocal style instead of more of an accent. The music is superb as I knew it would be and the growls don't make me want to immediately cut it off, but I keep thinking how great the music would be if it wasn't full on growl for minutes at a time. The clean vocal section was very, very nice. I will be looking to dig into the band more.
UlitmetalheadSleepytime Gorilla Museum - Sleep Is Wrong (
8.0)
I expected a little quirkiness with a band name like Sleepytime Gorilla Museum... and I certainly got that and more here. Very interesting musical approach. I really like the uniqueness of it but it seems focused on being unique instead of the catchiness of the song but it works
lonestarThe Hive-Mind - Sparks (
8.0)
Very nice modern, progressive and jazzy sound in this track. I love the use of the piano throughout of course. Does the band have a vocalist or are they purely an instrumental band? I really think I would enjoy this bands material and I'll have to check it out.
senecadawg2The Contortionist - Exoplanet (
8.0)
I've been meaning to check into this band for a while. Immediately struck by the melodic aspect before the growls kind of tear into the song. Like that it's kind of a journey instead of just being beat over the head with growls cause they somewhat take over but then the beautiful arrangements throughout bring it into focus.
jingle.boyStar One - Master of Darkness (
8.0)
Yet another band I've meant to listen to. Love the heavy but melodic quality here and obviously the prog sound as well. Listening to the lyrics I see why you asked the questions about movies but can't say I'm certain as to how it works in a song. The guitar is quite nice and I really like the concept musically overall. I think I would enjoy more from this group.
**** SIDE NOTE****
Wanted to say that the reason the scores were like they are is because it seems everyone is right on the path to exactly the things I like now. There were only minor gripes on my part as to why the selections didn't score even higher. Just wanted to express that much to you all.
Current standings after round 8:
1.jingle.boy: (8.5) + (8.0) = 16.5
2.Ulitmetalhead: (8.0) + (8.0) = 16
3.lonestar: (7.5) + (8.0) = 15.5
4.senecadawg2: (7.0) + (8.0) = 15
5.Big Hath: (6.5) + (8.0) = 14.5
6.Nekov: (6.5) + (8.0) = 14.5
Round 9 and the first mystery theme round will be.....
Now to throw everyone for a loop... I grew up with parents who listened to R&B, Soul, and even beach music (not beach boys) along with my Dad being a prog, heavy music fan. I have a part of me that absolutely loves those styles but I'm usually very picky about it. I would love for a great R&B, Soul, Funk, etc. selection in this round. Due to the fact that I know some may not listen to a lot of that, I'll even accept songs tinged with some GREAT GROOVE from other music genres.