The Late Cord - Lights From the Wheelhouse (2006)

Bliss, happiness, gaiety, optimism, joviality, feelings of hopefulness, it's all overrated. What's the point in struggling and striving for these temporary forms of relief? The truth is, there isn't any. Staring down the abyss of nothingness is a bleak, but pleasurable way to live to your life. I think these despairing sentiments are what The Late Cord are trying to convey.

Sadly, this is their only EP. Five tracks in length. But five tracks that will endure through the loneliest of nights. The most outstanding track on this album in my opinion, "My Most Meaningful Relationships Are With Dead People" is truly one of the most mortifying tracks I've ever heard. The Late Cord's depressing tones and melancholic atmospheres are simply perfect for a soul in solace.

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Doughboys - When Up Turns To Down (2006)

It's saddening and fucked up that these guys don't get the recognition they deserve. And they're out since the early 90's for Christ's sake. I think it's just that they've had their own string of bad luck, from internal problems, to poor marketing but if you give them the chance they deserve you won't regret it.

I came across them a couple of years ago, this being the first EP that I heard, and I loved them right away from that first beautiful melodic rift of "When Up Turns To Down". It's a great EP to start off with, being that it's a sparse five tracks in length. And every track is lovely. Definitely one of the best bands to come out of the 90's, so give this album a listen and I can guarantee you'll be rummaging through the depths of the internet for more of their albums. My recommendation would definitely be to start with their earlier stuff. And of course, you trust your Dr. don't you?

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Battle of Mice - A Day of Nights (2006)

Variety in vocals is a near impossible thing to find in music these days. Especially when you come across such unconventional vocals that work so perfectly with the sound in which it is integrated. Battle of Mice integrates post-metal with noticeable elements of sludge and... screaming, perfect screaming by lead vocalists Julie Christmas originally of Made Out of Babies. Did I mention the screams? They're flawless by the way.

With rhythmic drumming, dark guitars, and equally dark lyrics, Battle of Mice, I guarantee, will not disappoint. Furthermore, apart from Julie's unconventional vocal styles, her voice is beautiful. In the track, "Sleep and Dream" (my personal favourite from the album) she boasts the full potential of how amazingly gorgeous her voice is. You'll notice why I'm raving so heavily about her singing voice when you listen to this track from 4:34. Just, sit back and prepare to have your proverbial socks knocked the fuck off.

The only bad thing I can possibly think of about this album, "A Day of Nights" is that I wish it had more tracks. However, despite it being seven tracks in length, each track surpasses the 5 minute mark. A truly lovely album this one is, you'll find yourself putting this on for repeated spins after your very first listen. Furthermore you'll find yourself quoting these lyrics at the most random moments. Even while typing this up I still can't get over the versatility of her vocal cords. Let's just hope she doesn't damage them with those forceful, perfect screams. But at least it won't be vain. She knows this album was simply worth it.

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Dalek-Absence (2004)

Hip Hop is dead? Impossible. Especially impossible with this dynamic duo of innovators on the scene. Consisting of lead vocalist MC Dälek and the Oktopus, this experimental hip hop duo brings to the genre a class that has yet to be recognized. With impeccable flows and a style of production that will rattle your sanity if you try to bring specificity in choosing a genre to this style, Dälek could be a glimpse of what future hip hop could be become.

With recognizable distortion noticed throughout their tracks, Dälek expresses their voice with dark undertones, not suited for the light at heart. This noisy, atmospheric treat will explode in your ears with a cornucopia of sounds in a way hip hop has never done before. Furthermore, touring with bands in the likes of Tool and Isis, Dälek is expecting to recruit an entirely new breed of fans to the hip hop genre. Of course, apart from their instrumental diversity, their rhymes are simply immaculate.

This album, “Absence” is the perfect way to start your journey into the world that is Dälek. Right away from the first track “Distorted Prose” (my personal favourite) you will immediately realize you are amidst greatness. With other amazing tracks such as “Culture for Dollars”, “Asylum – Permanent Underclass” (which possesses that old school turntable style in its beats), “Eyes to Form Shadows” (So dark, so good) and obviously your own choice favourites, this album will inspire you to explore the rest of their discography. One word of advice however, this album is NOT easy on the ears. So be prepared for an audible workout. You have been warned.

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Carissa's Wierd - Songs About Leaving (2002)

Carissa's Wierd personifies the definition of sadcore. Truly depressing music done at it's finest moments, with lyrics that speak to your heart and gentle instruments that speak to your soul. Violins, cellos, pianos in an array that will leave melancholic fans with just simply a thirst for more. Personally speaking, Carissa's Wierd has done for me what no other band possibly could. If I could choose one band that has shed light on some of life's darkest moments, it would without a doubt be this particular indie rock band that originated in Seattle.

This album, "Songs About Leaving" I'd rate in their highest regards. To call an album perfect is a stretch to say the least. But to call this album perfect could possibly be bordering on an understatement. It is rare that we'll find an album where every track deserves repeated listens , but alas, we are in the midst of one. The first time I listened to this album, I was amazed that something could be so singularly amazing, and it quickly grew to be one of my favourites of all time.

The melancholic feel of this entire album never grows old, and it will take you for a thrill ride of gut wrenching emotion. You will definitely immerse yourself in your own favourites and this album is an instantaneous grower. With gems such as "So You Wanna Be A Superhero", "Silently Leaving the Room", "They'll Only Miss You When You Leave", Ignorant Piece of Shit" and basically every other track, you'll feel your heart ripped out of your chest. But you'll love that feeling. It'll be the best feeling an album can give you...


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