This was 311's very first album that was released from a big-time label.  Naturally, they had their own record label, back in the day, called "What Have You Records." (www.311music.com) on which they released 3 underground records called:  Dammit, Hydroponic, and Unity.

 

Anyways, this has to be one of the most-listened to 311 albums in my collection.  With such classics as "Freak Out" and "Plain", it keeps my head nodding to this for a long time!

 

This is 311's second album, after Music.  This one, unlike Music, started generating more and more 311 fans. 

 

You might say that, in contrast to Music, this one is more mellowed out, and tends to show off the band's diverse styles.  I tend to like "Homebrew", "Nutsymptom", and "Omaha Stylee" the most, but the whole CD deserves a good listening to!

 

This album, that Omaha Nebraska-based band 311 has released, is rather different from the other albums.  This one, unlike all of the previous ones, is almost all mellow and it's a rather nice and relaxed album.  In fact, I listen to this one a WHOLE lot, and with all its 21 tracks, it makes for hours of good times!  Check out "Prisoner", "Beautiful Disaster", and "Stealing Happy Hours."  Those are some of my favorites!

 

Hold on to your hats, folks!  Not only is this album one of the best live albums there is, but there's good reason for it. - 311 got around through live shows only, back in the day.  They have fine-tuned their sound, specifically for live listeners.  Now, you can partake of their live sounds and see what it's all about.  Some of my favorites here are: "Freak Out", "Beautiful Disaster", "Galaxy", "Down", and "Feels so good."

 

311 briefly switched labels for this album.  They had recently returned from a trip to Jamaica, and it shows in most of these songs.  It has a lot of Transistor-ish sounds, but also features heavier guitars, and more rock for your roll!  Check out the last track, "Livin' & Rockin'" for a pleasent little surprise!

 

This album took awhile for me to grow on, but eventually I've come to the conclusion that this album is probably one of the most explosive ones yet!  They really put a lot of energy into this one, but didn't fail to include their original brand of easy-listening, rap, and rock into the mix.  This is good for any casual fan, but die-hard 311 fans will be sure not to miss this either!  Check out "Amber", "You get worked", "You wouldn't believe", and "I told myself."

 

These guys are remarkable, with catchy little lyrics and all out fun songs about road tripping, and their ever-popular hit "Inside Out".  I regret that I don't listen to this CD more often, but....  I'll definetly find time for that, when I can!

 

I tend to like this album more so than their first one, but that's not to say I don't appreciate both of them.  This one just tends to be more upbeat, to me...  Plus, I listened to it a lot more often than the first one, so I kind of grew attached to it.  I love all the tracks, and I can honestly say it's wonderful for car tunes!  *smiles and then sings:  "I promise not to try not to let you down."*

 

Wow, you think you've heard deep and chilling?  If you heard one or two songs from this band, then you might be credited to say that.  Every song is thought provoking, suspenseful, deep...   You name it, and with frontman of Tool - Maynard, it gives this group a unique sound.  I tend to like them better than Tool, but don't get me wrong.  I'm a fan of both bands.  Check out, "Thinking of you.", "Orestes", "The Hollow", and "3 Libras" for starters.

 

Mad?  Insane?  Crazy?  You can't find a phrase comparable to this band!  They're absolutely off the wall crazy!  If you've seen them live (Like I haven't, but I have seen their videos.), you'll agree with me that they must be on speed or something...  Ahem, but this album tends to dip towards political rock, and it shows in songs such as, "Invalid Litter Dept.", and "Enfilade".  Check these guys out. - and prepare for the ride of your life!

 

I admit, I bought it mostly because I really love some of the songs that Jane's Addiction put out, and I heard the single "Rexall" from Dave Navarro, and I fell in love with it!  At first, I wasn't too impressed with the rest of the album, but it's grown on me and I actually like it a lot now!  Try checking out "Hungry", and "Not for Nothing".

 

Wow, I am blown away by this band.  Most generic metal is simple and easy to play, but these guys give it a huge kick in the teeth with their brand of fusion metal, and it sounds excellent!  If you want to sample some of the good stuff on this album, try: "Captain Bligh", "Welcome to the Fold", "The best things", and "Take a picture."

 

Oh yes, we all were infatuated with their single, "You get what you give."  Such immortal songs like these are rare to come by in this day and age of anger and violence and aggression...  This album would definetly balance things out with its varied sound of joy and sorrow...  Check out, "Mother we just can't get enough." and "Flowers" for starters...  you'll like them a lot, I promise!  Plus, you won't hear anything new since this band disbanded as soon as the album came out, so grab it while you can!

 

I like the fact that this band can go full metal, and keep their lyrics meaningful at the same time.  It took awhile for me for this one to grow on me, but I've come to like the entire album.  Some of my favorites of mine include:  "Fastblack", "Where did you go?", "Blue Green Day", "Stain", "Monster", and "Mr. Wiggly"  Sometimes leans towards heavy and light, but either way it's an enjoyable ride! 

 

I admit that I bought this album just for the song, "Name.", and I wasn't aware that there were so many other great songs on that album....  Songs like: "Flat top", "Naked", "Long way down", "Ain't that unusual", and "Slave girl" are really enjoyable to me...  In fact, you'll find that back in the day, Goo Goo Dolls were closer to their origins of a punk band, but their lyrics are still just as deep and sad as their future songs.  *screams "This little woman drives me insane!  She's tied to my ankle with a ball and chain!"

 

This is simply a beautiful album, which is fit for anyone's collection...  With songs like "Dizzy", "Slide", "Broadway", and "Black Balloon" it's definetly pleasing to the ears....  If you heard a song of their's called, "Iris" it's included on here too!  Might I just say that "Iris" is one of the songs that introduced me to rock music.  Hehe, you might say I have a special attachment to the song.....  I'd like it more if it weren't so bloody sad!

 

I admit that I haven't actually listened to the entire album, because with 18 tracks, it's really overwhelming to me....  Plus, I just kind of skip over it at times but don't let that make you think I don't like Green Day, because if there's any band out there I respect more than 311, it's Green Day all the way!  The songs I have heard off of this album are:  "Nice guys finish last", "Hitchin' a Ride", "The Grouch", "Redundant", and "Good Riddance (Time of your life)  All of which are wonderful little songs, and should be listened to!

 

This, my friends, is the album that has pretty much defined Green Day from the moment they went mainstream, and with good reason!  At 10x platinum, it is nothing to be snuffed.  This album features the more well-known singles like:  "Longview", "When I come around", "She", "Welcome to Paradise", and "Basket Case."  This was my very first punk/rock album, and I got it from some guy who was selling cds for under 5 dollars...  His rap albums were higher priced, so I got a hold of this one for far less.  See?  This is what rap does to people. - Seeing true value is made impossible.  *grins evily*

 

"I wanna be the minority!  I don't need your authority!"  As I might have said once before, songs encouraging non-conformists standards are very few in number, and this being their first single off of their new album "Warning", I was hooked!  This would actually be my 2nd Green Day album that I purchased, and even though it's rather slowed down compared to previous albums, I've noticed it is still holding true to their styles.  I love the entire album, but you should check out:  "Warning", "Church on Sunday", "Castaway", "Waiting", "Minority", and "Macy's Day Parade."

 

Overall, they have some catchy singles but my number one complaint would be that they should try and devote more of their energy to being upbeat and fast...  they're good at that, but the slow songs kind of get in the way for me...  Hm, ah well.  Try checking out:  "Open your eyes", "Lord of the boards", "Crossing the deadline", and "Wash it down."  Those will definetly get you pumped! 

 

See?  These are the kinds of bands which makes me curse pop music, for pulling the wool over my eyes and leading me to believe there was no such thing as Jimmy Eat World.  These guys have been around forever, and I willingly admit that I'm a recent-generation fan....  But it's a good start, let me tell you!  I'm in love with all the tracks on this album, and don't let the opening track fool you.  Actually, all the songs on here are rather uplifting and happy!  Check out:  "Bleed American", "A praise chorus", "The Middle", "Your house", and "Sweetness" for starters.

 

Man, this is one heck of a debut album from a band that has so much potential!  Personally, I love every song on this album and with good reason.  (One suggestion:  Don't dedicate this album to a girlfriend, like I did, because man...  if things go wrong, you won't touch this album ever again. - That's how sad and thought-provoking this album is.)  Ahem, anyways definetly make an effort to check this one out, and feel free to sample the goods with, "Hanging by a moment.", "Sick cycle carousel.", "Simon.", "Somewhere in between.", and "Everything."  A bit of information, an acquintance of mine once went to a thing called King's Kids with Jason Wade, which is a program I attend regularly.  Check the CD booklet for the acknowledgements, and prepare to be stunned!  How punk is that, eh?  *grins*

 

I was thoroughly impressed by their first single, One Step Closer, and chances are if you liked that one then you'll love the entire album.  Not one song dips below par is they keep things moving on.... and on and on.  Just one complaint, and a friend of mine brings up a good point. - It seems like they tell the same story in each song, with adjustment to musical arrangements.  Which is true, but who gives?  Check out, "One Step Closer.", "In the end.", "With you.", "Points of authority.", "Papercut.", and "Crawling."

 

These guys write some solid tunes, brother!  I wasn't all that impressed with Leader of Men when it first came out as a single, but....  back then I was a bit too young to comprehend to its message and now that I'm a bit older and a bit wiser, I've come to appreciate what they put out...  However, Breathe was an awesome single that my ignorant mind, back then, could understand!  So in the end, after quite some time this album was released, I purchased it and sure enough, I got what I was hoping for!  I haven't listened to it all yet, but check out the ones I enjoyed so far:  "Breathe.", "Cowboy Hat.", and "Leader of Men."

 

I liked this album a lot, and it's true to the band's style in the past too!  Sure, they may have blown up with their recent hits, but I can assure you that they're still the same old Nickelback!  The opening track is a real catchy tune, and I'd check out, "Never again."  Plus, you can check out:  "How you remind me.", and "Too bad."  Those are some good times!

 

I was expecting a nice little alternative band, with happy and thought provoking songs, but....  I believe the opening track "Fallen Souls" says it all.  It's actually a rather depressing little album...  I love it to death though, and it's perfect for if you're down in the dumps and you want an alternative to shouting and screaming a variety of obscenities in all directions.  Check out, "Fallen Souls.", "Sometimes.", "Drowning.", "Miseryhead.", and "Here is the light." 

 

Now call me crazy, but I'm a nut for music when it was all about music, and this group being one of the most musically diverse groups for its time, I just had to cash in on this particular album and I came away with one heck of a trip!  I can go as far to say that despite their age, they can rival any group today and come out on top!  This particular album is their soft side, and it has many of the singles that the radio plays today including, "Money." and "Us and Them."  Check out, "Time." as well.  You'll find this album ideal for road tripping! 

 

Amazing, simply amazing!  I have to say, even though I'm fully aware that there are probably previous albums before it that put out more than this one does, this is one heck of an album for this group from San Diego, California.  It's got some very positive flows and I respect their ability to flow right into mainstream without losing touch with their original styles.  I've grown to like this entire album, and for some good tunes check out:  "Southtown.", "Rock the party.", "Lie Down.", "Tribal.", "Freestyle.", and "Outkast."

 

It's an alright album, and it's got some really sweet tunes like "Set it off.", "Boom.", "Satellite.", "Alive.", and "Youth of the nation."  I wouldn't compare it to the likes of TFEOST, but it's still worthy of your time.  *smiles and screams, "Pshhaa!"*

 

 

"The supreme excitement of our time!"  That's what's on the front of the album, and let me tell you right now that it's no ploy to buy your attention.  This is the truth, partner.  It's got this perfect blend of Science Fiction, old-time horror flicks, and mayhem to take you to the edge of your seat and back several times before you can manage to say:  "Hey!"  You should really check out each track of this album...  For starters, try:  "Supernova goes pop!", "When worlds collide.", and "Nobody's real."

 

You want real punk?  Ya know, the kind that's really cool AND the kind you can play in front of the folks without shaming yourself stupid?  Well, this band is it!  With humorous little tracks about Marilyn Manson eating people's girlfriends, ("My Girlfriend.") to road tripping in the greatest car in the world, ("K Car.")  With a true faith and a message that is worthy of a good listening to, I'd recommend this CD to anyone.

 

This is a beautiful album, and it consists mostly of folk rock.  However, it's some of the most poetic I've heard in quite some time.  Everyone would enjoy it, and for starters I can recommend a couple of the tracks that I listen to a lot.  "No Such Thing.", "My Stupid Mouth.", "Why Georgia.", "Your Body is a Wonderland.", and "Neon." are some of my personal favorites, so go get it already!

 

There are very few albums out there that I consider to be masterpieces, but Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness is definitely one of them that will stay on my list, for all time.  They range from heavy and disturbing, to soft and heartfelt.  It's all very nice, and with some string arrangements on certain songs it gives you a lot of variety.  It's two discs long, which is even better!  So go and sample some of the goods!  "Tonight, Tonight.", "Zero.", "Bullet with butterfly wings.", "1979.", and "An ode to no one." will get ya started!

 

Folk rock, with a bit of emo thrown in for good measure - that's how I'd describe Pete Yorn's first album.  It took awhile for it to grow on me, but the more I listened to it the more I liked it.  If you're like me, the confused and lonely type of guy, you'll really dig this album.  Check out these tracks, "Life on a chain.", "Black.", "Just another.", "Sense.", and "Simonize." are a few of my favorites.

 

I fell in love with the song, Superman (It's not easy).  I didn't really know what this band was all about, but the moment I bought the album I found out!  It's a beautiful set of tunes, ranging from Superman (It's not easy), which basically says that not everyone is who they appear to be, to songs like America Town, which tells of a person who doesn't really view America as anything amazing.  Pick it up, I promise you'll love it! 

 

The one thing I like about these guys is that they keep their lyrics pretty intelligently written, but never fail to show you a powerful and dizzying ride at the same time!  Such is the case with Every six seconds.  I like this album, and I listen to it if I'm a bit ticked off or down in some other way.  You should check out some of the tunes!  "Click, click, boom!", "Your disease.", "Lackluster.", and "After me." are some of my personal favorites.

 

Before Saliva blew up and became a well-known band, they released this album with some of their earlier songs.  A few of which were redone, and made it onto the next album, "Every six seconds."  They weren't as heavy back then, in my opinion.  However, it's worth checking into if you're a big fan of them!  Check out, "Beg.", "Sink.", "Spitshine.", and "Call it something."

 

I was reluctant, when I saw Jimmy dancing around in his video, "Idiot Boyfriend."  But the song is just too freaking catchy!  And brutally honest, no less...  I mean, knowing me, I...  Er, nevermind.  Ahem.  But this CD is a mix of some songs, and stand up comedy as well.  However, you won't be disappointed.  Sure, there are only 5 songs on it but there are sketches which showcase his musical abilities quite well, and with style might I add!  Check it out; you won't be disappointed.. unless you don't have a sense of humor, that is. 

 

I think this is one album everyone should own.  Even if you're not that big of a U2 fan, this is a nice one to own.  This is just me, though.  Keep in mind, casual fan or not, music with a message is what I'm into and U2 delivers it!  I don't have any previous albums to compare this one to, so I'll just do my best and provide you with the recommended tracks!  "Walk on.", "Stuck in a moment you can't get out of.", "Beautiful day.", "In a little while.", "Grace.", and "Elevation." are all great songs!   

 

Ok, so let's be honest..  If there were any guitar player I'd like to be like, this guy would be it.  The problem?  I suck oh-so horribly, that's what!  But I do enjoy the tunes this hard-playing guitarist put out.  Check out some of these tracks, and you'll understand why Stevie is the blues/guitar legend that he is to this day!  "Say what!", "Ain't gone 'n' give up on love.", "Mary had a little lamb.", and "Superstition."

 

This band tends to capture the style of 70's rock and roll.  If not that era, then they're definitely in style with the older styles of rock music.  Sure, the album may lack punch that albums THESE days have, but it's kind of a welcome change really, and all the songs on here are fun to listen to.  Go ahead and check out these songs, and see what you think for yourself!  "Last nite.", "Hard to explain.", "Someday.", and "Is this it."

 

I say this band has a LOT of potential.  They have some very interesting melodies, lyrics, and styles of playing.  They kind of remind me of a lighter Alice in Chains.  What grabs me the most though is that this is just the kind of music I tend to like.  It doesn't matter how commercialized a band is, less or more.  As long as they write good tunes, that's all I ask!  I think Tantric manages to pull that off, in their debut album here very well.  You should check into the following:  "Breakdown.", "Mourning.", "Astounded.", "I don't care.", "Live your life (Down.)" 

 

I'm not quite sure what I'd categorize Sunna as, but I think my best guess would be alternative/hybrid.  Hehe, if that sound contradictive, I don't know what to tell you.  But anyways, I only like a few songs off of the album.  Granted, I haven't listened to it much, just so you know!  Definitely check out, "I'm not trading.", and "Power struggle."  I listen to those two songs a lot!

 

I'm not as big of a Tool fan as I'd like to be, but I love Lateralus to death!  It's kind of got this weird and dark side to it.  Yet, at the same time, it's beautiful in its own dark and forboding kind of way.  Mind you, all these songs are rarely under 6 minutes long, so if you decide to check them out, be prepared!  So saying that, check out:  "The Grudge.", "Schism.", "Ticks & Leeches.", and "Parabol/Parabola."

 

This soundtrack does a good job of capturing Top Gun, the movie...  but I think it does a better job of capturing 80s style rock and roll.  Plus, being that the movie was filmed here in Miami, all the more reason for it to also include the style that kind of reflected upon the environment Miami is.  Also, me wanting to be a navy pilot didn't stave off from me purchasing this album either, so there!  Anyways, be sure to check out some of these cool songs, "Danger Zone." and "Playing with the boys." by Kenny Loggins, "Mighty Wings." by Cheap Trick, "Lead me on." by Teena Marie, and "Through the fire." by Larry Greene.

 

This group, many say, is alot like Nine Inch Nails, except that it's more artistic in a way.  In essence I tend to agree.  VAST is amazing, and they have many songs that are thought-provoking, slightly disturbing, and sad yet beautiful.  Kirk Hammet of Metallica says it's one of the best albums he's ever heard.  So you can take his word for it, mine, or both if you want - this is a great album!  Check out, "Here.", "Pretty when you cry.", "Temptation.", "Flames.", "You.", "I'm dying.", and "The Niles edge."

 

A step up from the darker side of VAST's previous album, comes Music for people.  Compared to the last one, which was a retrospective view of frontman Jon Crosby's inner self, this one appeals to his feelings towards other people, and is more open to a wider audience.  But still, there's no denying that VAST has achieved its style and I hope it will stay that way forever.  Check out these songs, "Free.", "The last one alive.", "Blue.", "I don't have anything.", and "What else do I need."

 

If I had to make a choice on who this band sounded like the most, it'd have to be Nirvana and The Beatles.  Not a bad combination at all, really!  And this album of theirs shows that.  It took awhile for me to really listen to it and appreciate it, but it'll grow on you!  Maybe that's why they're called The Vines, eh?  Anyways, be sure to check into these songs for a sample of what they're all about!  "Highly Evolved.", "Mary Jane.", "Outtathaway.", "Get Free.", "Factory.", and "1969."

 

Meg White and Jack White make up this entire band, and although you may hear from some that they are a brother and sister band, truth is they are actually former husband and wife!  Whoever you choose to believe, you still can't deny that they make up a very awesome band!  While the songs themselves aren't complex, the lyrics are simple and honest, and that's what makes them stand out.  Be sure to go ahead and check out, "Dead leaves and the dirty ground.", "Hotel Yorba.", "I'm finding it harder to be a gentleman.", "Fell in love with a girl.", "The same boy you've always known.", and "I can't wait." just to start you off!