#CATCHIEST SHIT EVER FOR KID ME

[sabxhere]

KOTCHI WO MUITE SUKI DA TO ITTE—✨💖💖

[echthr0s]

Top 10 favorite albums (or whichever ones you've been enjoying the most)

it was only this year that it occurred to me to start keeping lists of our favourite things because our memory is like swiss fucking cheese (as previously discussed lol) so this is gonna be a bit haphazard and I'm definitely gonna wake up at 02:00 in a cold sweat like "FUCK I FORGOT [x]" but. 🎵 these are the breeeeaks! 🎵 anyway.

i. DARK SIDE OF THE MOON | pink floyd hated PF as a kid listening to rock radio, their dreamy sound bored the fuck out of me, but now that I'm a stoner PF makes way more sense that's not relevant to DSotM though, I just love this album because it's about madness and entropy and death and also has the best middle track and outro track ever invented standout track: Eclipse

ii. BETWEEN THE HEART AND THE SYNAPSE | the receiving end of sirens post-hardcore concept album with copious use of harmonies and haunting lyrics. this band was a flash in the pan that left scorch marks on my entire existence standout track: Epilogue

iii. THIS GODLESS ENDEAVOR | nevermore my introduction to Nevermore that still remains my favourite work by them. what a fucking band. Warrel Dane's vocals are insane. it's just good idk what to say standout track: Sentient 6

iv. MABOOL: THE STORY OF THE THREE SONS OF SEVEN | orphaned land here we start getting into albums I don't listen to from beginning to end often bc there are individual songs that I don't really care for BUT it's such a cohesive and beautiful story when you do listen to it from beginning to end that I still do it sometimes anyway. this is a concept album about Noah and the Ark by an Israeli metal band. like. come on. what more do you WANT from LIFE standout track: The Storm Still Rages Inside

v. REQUIEM FOR A DREAM OST | Clint Mansell + Kronos Quartet I am rabid for both Mansell and the Kronos Quartet. I would die for them. honourable mention to The Fountain OST here which not only is my favourite movie but it has the one song in existence that makes me say "if I were a song I would be this song" standout track: listen idk it's just two leitmotifs the entire time, a lot of them are the same tune with different spices added

vi. STRANGER FRUIT | zeal & ardor who are my favourite band so it's kinda funny it took me this long to bring them up but YKNOW "satanic negro spirituals and btw, make it metal" is a genre that is 100% tailored to me personally (their later albums are less Specific vibes-wise which is a shame but yknow what... the shit still slaps so I'm not too mad) standout track: You Ain't Coming Back

vii. BEETHOVEN'S LAST NIGHT | trans-siberian orchestra they don't just make metal Christmas music! standout track: Mephistopheles' Return

viii. GARDEN WINDOW | o'brother vibes. pure vibes. idek how else to explain this band but. whew standout track: Poison! ix. THE DOOMSTAR REQUIEM | dethklok (metalocalypse) Metalocalypse's rock opera has some of the catchiest metal songs I've ever heard. also. it's a rock opera. likeeee come ONNN *gesticulating madly* standout track: *impales self on spikes instead of trying to choose*

x. NYMPHETAMINE | cradle of filth you already know 🤘🏿 standout track: Absinthe With Faust

[thegeminisage]

the true brilliance of koji kondo as a composer is that like ocarina of time’s soundtrack is already amazing but when you take it out of the n64 instrumentals and put it into modern synths or real instruments it fucking comes ALIVE. like there absolutely are/were songs on the ost that kid me and even adult me thought were just “okay.” today’s example is kaepora gaebora’s theme:

this is ok and fine ig but usually kind of bores me, which may also be because of the conditioning i have had to try and skip through every owl section as quickly as humanly possible and not fuck up the ending prompt, but then you put it to live instruments:

like yes, much of this is obviously a credit to the musicians who arranged and covered it, but the MELODY is koji kondo’s, the harmonies, the background instruments and how they work together. and i listen to this and i, who have never really liked the owl song, am absolutely JAMMING OUT to it. it’s the catchiest shit i’ve ever heard. and the older i get the more i realize that every single “just okay” track on the ost is LIKE THAT. the sheer talent in like that one guy. blows my mind every time

[adarlingwrites]

Absolution

Summary:

noun: formal release from guilt, obligation, or punishment

The Capital Wasteland lauded the Lone Wanderer as a hero, a Messiah, a savior who's willing to give her life for the Good Fight. Beyond the legends, the propaganda, and the mythification that surrounded her legacy, there is only one person who knew her bare soul. She gave him his absolution, and now he will fight for hers.

IX

September 23, 2277

“What kind of fun are we talking about, Nova?” Percy asks the redhead, a look in her eye that I can only describe as mischievous.

“I’m thinking of a game, honey. Let’s get the boys involved too,” Nova said. “It’s a slow night anyway. Think we can close up early, Gob?”

“Huh? Uh sure! Anything for you, Nova,” replies the other ghoul. The way he hangs on the smoothskin’s word says it all. Poor bastard.

“I think I have a deck of cards upstairs. Say… strip poker?” Nova suggests.

I almost spat out my drink.

Gob, standing right across me behind the bar, rubs his face. Percy tilts her head at Nova, looking clueless as hell.

“What’s strip poker?”

“Miss, do you know what poker is?” I ask her, and she shakes her head. “Then you would not like strip poker.”

Nova laughs and pats my mistress in the back. “Aw, you’re no fun,” she says to me, and Percy raises an eyebrow.

“What is strip poker?” Percy insists on asking.

“Regular poker is a game where players bet that they have the highest ranking card. Strip poker is just the same thing, but you have to remove a piece of clothing if you lose the round,” Gob explains through his teeth. “Charon’s right, smoothskin. It would suck for a beginner like you.”

“Trying to get me out of my clothes, Nova? I thought you weren’t into girls,” Percy giggles, and Nova throws her head back and laughs. “Just curious, hon. Ever since you got Moriarty out of the picture, I stopped the side business. Never thought that I’d miss getting touched so soon.”

The mistress looks at Gob, a knowing look on her face. Then, she turns to Nova. “Hey, I’m sure there’s a lot of people here on Megaton who’d like to get with you.”

Well. Percy noticed it too, huh?

“Uh, Nova? Percy? The game?” Gob interrupts nervously, and the women laugh together. “Right, right. Care to suggest anything, Percy? Any games you played in the vault?”

“Well, there are some… how about ‘Never Have I Ever’?”

“How do you play?”

“Well, you say something that you haven’t done in your life before, then other players will have to take a shot if they have. If no one takes a shot, the person who asked the question needs to drink theirs,” explains the mistress, to which Nova smirked.

“A drinking game where we get to know each other? I like it! C’mon boys, I’ll get the shot glasses ready.”

“I am not participating,” I tell her, and my mistress’ shoulders sag. “Aw, why not?”

“If you get too intoxicated, miss, I would have to haul your sorry ass back home.”

Percy blurts out a shocked laugh at my choice of words. “Seriously, big guy? We’re in Megaton anyway, and not like there are other patrons in the bar that can hurt me. C’mon, play with us, please?”

Please. Damn that fucking word.

“Fine, fine,” I grumble, and Percy throws her hands in the air with excitement and I am reminded that she’s still a teenager.

“Oh, we’re gonna have so much fun! Okay, who wants to go first?”

A month earlier, I would’ve called whoever told me that some smoothskin angel from a vault would come take my contract from Ahzrukhal, treat me like an actual person instead of a guard dog, and play drinking games with me crazy. Now, she’s leaning against my shoulder, cheeks red, and laughing hard.

“Oh come on, it was just one time! And it’s Moriarty’s fault for yelling at me! Not like the customers would have smelled it through the rot, anyway.”

“You still shit your pants, Gob,” Nova half-cackled, half-slurred.

Percy’s covering her mouth, trying to stop herself from laughing. “I’m so sorry, Gob. I feel bad for laughing because it’s Moriarty’s fault but the way you told the story is still fucking- HAHAHAHA!”

I wasn’t laughing, but I snorted. Man, this poor guy never catches a break, doesn’t he?

“I’ll let you laugh because you’re the one who got me out of my misery, friend,” Gob mumbles to Percy, nursing his empty shot glass in his hand.

“Okay. Next round. Your turn, Gob.”

“Hmmmm. Never have I ever killed someone I knew personally,” said Gob. Percy groans loud and takes a shot. I take mine too.

“Well, looks like you’ve found your match, Miss Dangerous,” Nova comments, nursing her full glass. “Charon, was it? If you wouldn’t mind me asking, who’d you kill?”

“Ahzrukhal,” I tell them, and Gob’s eyes widened.

“Who’s Ahzrukhal?” Nova asks.

“My previous employer, before Percy. He was an evil bastard.”

“When I got captured by slavers all those years ago, I overheard one of them talking that Ahzrukhal tipped them off,” Gob murmured. “I never trusted him. My mother told me to stay away from his bar.”

“Now I see why Percy’s your friend. You both got something against bastard bartenders huh?” Nova jokes, and my mistress quietly laughs.

“Two peas in a pod,” said Percy. “I guess we hate bastards who hurt and take advantage of defenseless people.”

Damn right, we do.

“What about you, hon? Who did you kill?”

“Stevie Mack. A guy from the vault I grew up in,” said Percy, leaning over the bar top. “He killed my friend, Jonas. Then, I saw that he was about to hurt my best friend Amata. I just lost it. Beat his head with a baseball bat until it was nothing but a bloody pulp, just like how I did to Moriarty.”

Nova let out a low whistle. “Damn, Percy.”

Gob clears his throat, and scratches what’s left of the skin on his head. “Damn. Leeeet’s just lighten up a bit. Sorry.”

“Hey, you have nothing to apologize for, Gob. Besides, talking about it helps,” Percy reassures the other ghoul, smiling.

“Your turn, kid,” Gob cheers, pouring scotch in Percy’s shot glass.

“Hmmm… uhhh… never have I ever had vaginal sex,” Percy slurs, red on her cheeks going even deeper.

Goddammit. I’m reminded of that fucking dream and how wrong it was. The last thing I want is to have those thoughts about her while my inhibitions are down. Stupid fucking dick of mine twitched again. Sometimes I wish I wasn’t intact.

I remember what Ahzrukhal threatened her with and felt like throwing up my dinner. To hurt a good person like that...

“You make it sound so medical,” Nova laughs, taking a shot. “Are you serious? Never did it with anyone in the vault?”

“Y-yeah! Birth control is hard to come by in the vault, so I-I never risked it,” Percy stutters. Her face is ever redder than the baseball hat she wore when I first met her.

Gob takes a shot. I take a shot. Then, Percy looked at me with a surprised look on her face.

“You seem surprised that Mr. Tall, Dark and Scary here took a shot too,” Nova croons, and Percy folds her fingers together. “Hey, depending on whether he’s pre-war or not, he probably has a lot of experience under his sleeve.”

“Uh, Nova, I don’t think we should press him further about his sex life… Charon’s a private person, you see,” Percy replies to her, nervous, knuckles white as she pressed them against her lap. Nova pays her no heed. “Hey, guy as big as him, he probably had some ladies coming on to him when he still had skin.”

“I am not answering that,” I tell her firmly.

“C’mon, we’re all friends here, don’t be shy,” Nova insists, slurring and waving the bottle of scotch around. I’m starting to feel uncomfortable.

“Nova…” Gob warns her weakly, taking the bottle from her hands.

Nova ignores both Percy and Gob, and continues to push.

I have lost my patience.

“Fine, you want to know? When I still had skin,” I slurred, looking Nova in the eye. “Employers would let me see prostitutes for fun. I never needed it, but if it stops me from remembering that I’m nothing but a living weapon to them, I’d take it. Some employers used my contract as an excuse to use me for their urges too. With or without my skin.”

Everyone was dead silent. Percy is pale as a ghost.

“I’m done playing,” I grunted, looking away from everyone.

Percy lets out a groan. “This isn’t the first impression I wanted you guys to have on each other, sorry. Mmmaybe we should’ve played a different game. One that doesn’t involve things that are so… personal.”

“I-I’m sorry,” Nova stutters, stunned. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have pushed.”

“Whatever,” I grunted, taking another beer.

“Okay, new rule, no pushing others to share unless they want to,” the mistress tells the other woman, and she nods. Gob just quietly refills everyone’s shot glasses except mine. I just nursed my beer and fucking sat there, wishing this night was over.

“Right. Okay, my turn,” Nova replies.

“Hmmmm… never had I ever been in a serious relationship before.”

Percy takes a shot.

“So, do you want to talk about it or…”

“Yeah, sure. I needed to get some things off my chest anyway. There was this guy in the vault named Butch…”

I can’t help but listen. I shouldn’t be listening to a teenager’s woes about her boyfriend, but here I was.

“Right, so, he was the vault bully. Ran a gang called the Tunnel Snakes. I know, not the catchiest name,” she starts. I can’t help but snort. What kind of fucking dumbshit name is “Tunnel Snakes?”

“I was heartbroken when Amata rejected me. Had a crush on her since we were kids. She’s the Overseer’s daughter, you see. The Overseer’s sort of like the vault president or whatever. And Amata’s the by-the-book type. She eventually admitted that she had feelings for me too, but the vault placed a lot of value on reproducing. So… yeah. A girl with a girl was out of the question.”

Nova starts leaning in, and so did Gob, listening to my mistress intently.

“Hey don’t get me wrong, I liked boys too, and I wouldn’t have dated Butch if I didn’t. But that’s besides the point. The night Amata rejected me, Butch and I were finally forced to sit down and talk because of some stupid game. Then, one of his gang members started to feel sick because he took alcohol with his medicine. I helped him, and Butch and I grew closer since that night,” Percy tells us. I didn’t notice that I was leaning towards her now, too.

“So, yeah. We started dating shortly after. Amata started to become distant because I changed and I started hanging with Butch more. But then I found out that Butch was still seeing his on-and-off girlfriend, Susie. Made him choose. He chose Susie,” the mistress continues, voice cracking.

“God, what an ass,” Nova comments.

“It gets worse,” said Percy. “I blamed myself the entire time, thought that maybe if I gave in and just let him fuck me already, he would’ve stayed. Then, I found out that all this time, the Tunnel Snakes were the Overseer’s puppet. All this time, he got close to me so he could dig dirt on me. The Overseer wanted to use whatever info he got from them to make Amata stay away. Crazy, huh?”

Wow. What an ass, indeed.

“His loss, smoothskin,” Gob comments. “I don’t know why anyone would turn a nice and pretty girl like you down.”

“Thanks for trying to make me feel better, Gob, but, I’m... complicated,” Percy blushes, looking down on her thighs. “I have some trust issues to work through, and it would be unfair to expect Butch to hold my hand as I go through them, y’know?”

“We all have issues,” I finally speak up. All of them look at me.

“It’s not an excuse to break a damn angel’s heart.”

Damn it. Did I say that out loud? Hopefully the mistress forgets about it the next morning, because she’s looking at me with wide eyes, and her friends are giving each other looks, too.

“R-right! Whose turn is it?” Gob stammers.

Thank fuck.

September 24, 2277

It’s around two in the morning when the mistress finished her game. She had too many shots of scotch, almost stumbling off the railings when she barrelled through the saloon door to throw up. I managed to grab her undershirt to steady her before any accidents happened. I feel sorry for the unfortunate fuck screaming below that got splashed with her vomit.

“H-hey, take care of our Percy, hon,” Nova slurs, leaning against the doorframe. Gob was supporting her and is giving me a dopey smile, wobbling, almost as wasted.

“Oh man, careful on the way down. I’ve seen way too many drunks fall over,” said the other ghoul. I grunted and carried the mistress on my back, and she wraps her arms around my shoulders. The dog follows us close by.

Halfway through the way home, she’s slurring and breathing in my ear.

I just brushed it off.

As we arrived home, Percy asked me to put her down near the sink, where she strips out of her clothes. I turned around and faced the wall, hearing her splash the water against her face and drag a rag against her body.

Without saying a word, I go upstairs to get her a new pair of shorts and a shirt. I never noticed how small she really is until I’ve held her change of clothes in my hands. When I got back, Dogmeat was at her feet as she sat on her dirty jumpsuit on the floor, her back turned towards me, and curled into a ball.

“Miss, I got you a change of clothes.”

“T-thank you. I can dress myself,” she mumbles. I wait on the couch as she gets dressed, and I hear the fridge door open and close. She sits next to me, sipping on a bottle of purified water.

“Hey,” she whispers.

I don’t look at her.

“I’m sorry for tonight. God, I just wanted to get to know y-you better and I- you- damn, I fucked up real bad didn’t I?”

I finally look at her. There’s still sick on the edge of her mouth and her nose is dripping. Damn, is she crying?

Grumbling, I stand to fetch the rag, washing and wringing it in the sink. I’m not a damn babysitter, I’m a mercenary. So why the hell am I wiping down this girl’s face while she stammered and sobbed?

“I shouldn’t have forced you to play the game. I’m really sorry Charon,” said the mistress, and I fought the urge to groan.

“I agreed to participate, miss.”

“B-but you- that thing you said about-”

“Shh. Sleep it off.”

“Mmm. Okay. I’m still very sorry.”

“You have nothing to apologize for, Percy.”

“Stay with me?”

I let myself stay.

[jenli-leleesss]

okay! H/A/E/C/H/A/N?? lol

I debated not answering, but I'm like a vault and I guess love talking about myself so here it is

h: the best hairstyle your bias has ever had? 

jisung: go era, taeyong: cherry bomb era, jongho: say my name era, the natural colors look good on him and make him look really handsome, for Bic, banana era for sho and minho, I think rn, but then again, ,he hasn’t really tried like, green or some shit so who knows

a: I already answered

e: an idol you think would be easy to get along with?

okay I think for me personally it would be either like Mark or jisung from stray kids. idk why but they have that goofy boyish personalities and from experience I get along really well with boys like that so, ye

c: a color that you think your bias looks good in?

jisung: blue or red, taeyong: purple or pink, jongho, red or black, bic, orange, and minho, also purple

h: ^

a: ^

n: the best/catchiest name (or stage name)?

ironic, but haechan when you say the translation, full sun. I love it and like it just suits him so well considering he loves the sun and soaking up the sun when he can, no to mention he looks so good in sun, so hands down, haechan is the best stage name for an idol

26 unusual kpop asks

[starstruckpersonearthquake]

Imagine telling the Avengers some of John Mulaney’s best comic bits.

The team was just hanging out, like any other night that they had off. No missions had come in, and everyone intended on relaxing for the weekend. “I think that we should tell some funny stories tonight!” Tony exclaimed as he clapped his hands together. The team looked around at each other, shrugged, and let out sighs of ‘Why not?’ “Great! Y/N, you’re up!” “You want me to do what?” You said in your best imitation of John Mulaney. Peter burst out laughing at your reference. The rest of the Avengers were so confused by your new found accent. They hadn’t heard of John Mulaney; which you and Peter considered a huge failure on your part. Especially since you tried to help Steve and Bucky get used to the 21st century. 

        “Alright, alright. Where to begin?” “Do ducklings!” Peter said encouragingly. Your face lit up as you began to remember the story. “I’m so confused right now.” Bucky said aside to Sam. “Just let them have this.” Sam said slowly. “The question is, what is ‘this’?” Natasha spoke silently to the two men sitting beside her. 

    “Okay, none of this happened to me, but I’m retelling it, because it’s fun. And John Mulaney is a genius.” You cleared your throat before starting to tell the story. “i worked as a temp for a while. I liked being a temp, because I could go from office to office and be terrible at a job for a week, then retire. As a temp, I worked at a web agency, owned by this really old man who was old old old money New York. Like his money was in molasses or something. His name was Henry Jay Finch IV. Finch wore linen suits, a bowtie, suspenders, and a cane with an ivory handle. I’m giving you more information than you need, because I need you to believe me that this was a real person I knew in the 21st century. Finch was in his 70′s, he had an assistant named Mary, she was korean, and in her 50′s. I don’t know why he had an assistant, he did not need one, unless it was for Mary to say ‘remember Mr. Finch at 5 o’clock, you have to keep looking like a hard boiled egg.’”. Clint snorted from beside Scott, who looked even more confused than Bucky. 

     “One day, Mr. Finch walked in, it had been raining. He was wearing a rain coat, and a rain hat. He had his cane. Everything that i’m about to say to you, was said in front of me that afternoon. Mr. Finch said, and I’m quoting,’Ah! One feels like a duck splashing around in all this wet! And when one feels like a duck, one is happy!’ Mary responded,’ooooo DUCKLINGS!’ To which Mr.Finch replied, ‘too old to be a ducking, quack quack.’ And walked into his office.” Peter hid his face behind his hands as his shoulders were shaking from laughing silently. 

    “Now, I did that a little fast. Let me break it down for you.” “Oh, Jesus Christ-” Steve looked murmured as he looked down at the floor in defeat. “Mr. Finch walked in, and started a conversation the way anyone would. ‘Ahhh! One feels like a duck splashing around in all this wet-’ “The rain” ‘And when one feels like a duck, one is happy!’ Now that’s debatable. But rather than debate that point, Mary, brought up a new but interesting point, which was ‘DUCKLINGS’”. Thor couldn’t help it. The snort he let out at your outburst sent him into a fit of giggles, leaving the rest of the Avengers giggling quietly beside him. “But Mr. Finch, ever the realist about his own age and mortality, replied by saying, ‘No, too old to be a duckling.’ As if to say my duckling days are behind me. Mary don’t you see, I’m a duck now. And to prove it, well I’ll say the catchiest phrase a duck has. Quack quack.” 

    The Avengers lost it and broke out into fits of laughter around the sitting area. Tony had to admit, this wasn’t a bad idea. “More!” Bucky shouted as you and Peter broke into shit eating grins on both of your faces. That look made Tony think otherwise as he watched you and Peter discuss what to say next. Peter got up and stood in front of the heroes he admired for most of his life. “Okay, listen up! Street smarts!” Natasha laughed at Peter’s face. “Shut up you’re all gonna die!” You were rolling with laughter as Captain America stared into the youth’s eyes, wondering where the hell the kid was going with this. ‘Oh yeah, definetly worth it’, Tony thought as he caught his teammates getting a well deserved break from saving the world once more. 

[johannesviii]

Top 12 Personal Favorite Hit Songs from 2000

This was the hardest list to make so far, so yeah, it’s a top twelve because I felt disgusting cutting the last two songs. Oh well. Screw the rules.

I turned 12 that year! I had my own cd player, which was also a radio! I could make tapes and burn cds. I could even BUY cds too if I saved all my money for a couple of months! School wasn’t great, because of some bullies, but I still had some friends. I loved Pokemon and drawing in the park. Life felt good.

Music had never sounded better.

Disclaimers:

Keep in mind I’m using both the year-end top 100 lists from the US and from France while making these top 10 things. There’s songs in English that charted in my country way higher than they did in their home countries, or even earlier or later, so that might get surprising at times.

Of course there will be stuff in French. We suck. I know. It’s my list. Deal with it.

My musical tastes have always been terrible and I’m not a critic, just a listener and an idiot.

I have sound to color synesthesia which justifies nothing but might explain why I have trouble describing some songs in other terms than visual ones.

Not gonna lie, this list changed A LOT over the course of this post and I had to rearrange it several times. And then I gave up and changed it into a top 12. Also, this list of honorable mentions could almost make it a top 20 since several of these (half of them, actually) were on the top at some point.

All the small things (Blink 182) - I’m really glad these guys are still around today, to be honest. They always make me smile when I hear their new songs on the radio.

The Riddle (Gigi d’Agostino) - Love it, but it loses some of its appeal without the music video.

Lady (Modjo) - I claim overplay for this cut.

L’Alizé (Alizée) - More on that later.

Move your body (Eiffel 65) - Would have made the list in a more mediocre year, I swear.

Optimistique-moi (Mylène Farmer) - I literally said “self-care” before making this cut. Also the music video is great, it’s an artist trying to escape from some sort of nightmare circus, and a magician helps her. Very underrated music video.

Music (Madonna) - The most painful cut of all. I absolutely loved this song and how weird and disjointed and broken it sounded, and had it on several tapes. And yet there’s no room for it even with a top 12.

And now, the actual list. Warning: it starts with a curveball.

12 - J’pète les plombs (Disiz La Peste)

US: Not on the list / FR: #29

A French rap song about a guy losing his job and being stuck in traffic and subsequently going postal.

Here’s the kicker, though. This guy was rapping for my city, and this music video was filmed mostly in the estate I was living in at the time! That McDonalds at the beginning? It was across the street! That bus stop was in front of high school! Heck, I painted the rocks in that park at the end several times already!

And it became a huge hit!! You have no idea how excited we were in middle school. Everyone knew the lyrics (translation here)! Even if some parts were very rude! We still loved it! We were quoting the entirety of the McDonalds part where the guy wants an egg in his sandwich and is ready to fire a harpoon to get it. “Désolé, il est midi et après midi eh ben l’mac morning c’est fini” was a goddamn meme here.

It would probably have been less funny if the singer didn’t look like a cute nerd, it turns the music video into a hilarious parody. Especially because instead of a gun, he’s menacing people with a harpoon, a giant wooden hammer and a water pistol.

Legends only.

11 - One More Time (Daft Punk)

US: Not on the list / FR: #30

Around the World was a repetitive song, and while I kinda liked it, I didn’t quite get the hype around it at the time. But One More Time is a huge party, and everybody is invited, and all the drama stays at the door, and everyone just has a great time. And it has one of the most fitting music videos ever.

It’s a monster of a song, and even if it’s still a bit too repetitive to be listened to on a loop, it was a delight everytime it was on the radio. And it still is! Godspeed, Daft Punk.

10 - Innamoramento (Mylène Farmer)

US: Not on the list / FR: #91

I really, really tried to keep her off the list. And I failed. Innamoramento, the album, is one of my favorite albums of one of my favorite French artists ever and I’m weak, and out of the five (five) singles out of that album, I only managed to leave two out of my top 10 lists.

This sounds absolutely fantastic. There’s no way I could kick it off the list, even to make room for a guy who was rapping for my estate. And not even for goddamn Daft Punk.

Kill me now.

9 - Absolutely (Nine Days)

US: #35 / FR: Not on the list

I discovered this song in 2008 through a Silent Hill 3 AMV about Heather. Yeppppp. It’s here, and it’s still great 11 years later, and I love it, and this song was so good I put it on my playlist immediately and it stayed on it for several years.

The lyrics never really deliver their promise of telling a “story”, but it’s still a fantastic, bouncy, uplifting song, and it made my world better, and I have to thank that ephemeral band for that.

And I especially loved the very brief pause before the last “girl” in the song. Very relatable.

8 - J’en rêve encore (De Palmas)

US: Not on the list / FR: #27

Listen. I have no idea what’s up with these specific chords, but they are the sound of a weird mix of nostalgia, anger and above all, discomfort. No other song has the exact colors this one has and no other broadcasts this very specific mixed feeling.

Too bad the lyrics are yet another breakup song, or more specifically a post-breakup song (even if the lyrics are very, very good ; I just checked who wrote them and it’s Jean-Jacques Goldman. I had no idea but now, I can definitely hear it), because the music is really something else. At least to me. Is anyone else hearing this?

7 - The Real Slim Shady (Eminem)

US: #51 / FR: #28

Wow. Would you look at that. The ex angsty angry teenager loved Eminem. What a surprise, uh.

To be honest, I already genuinely liked this song as a kid even if I could only understand a few isolated parts and words, and the fact that this guy was pissed off and clearly being offensive, possibly towards everyone, was enough.

Now that I can understand the lyrics entirely, I obviously don’t endorse all of them (like the very backhanded argument for gay marriage. Jesus), but I can’t help it, this song still kicks ass. It would be dishonest to leave it out of the list. I loved it so much at the time. And I still enjoy it a lot.

6 - Natural Blues (Moby)

US: Not on the list. Not on any US year-end list actually. I thought it was big everywhere but no. What happened. / FR: #49

There’s overplay, and then there’s “I keep hearing this song everywhere and yet I can never get enough of it, and I will sing it at school, and I will put it on tapes, and I will listen to it even when it’s not on the radio.”

If you asked me what the year 2000 sounded like, it sounded like Natural Blues. I genuinely can’t believe it’s not on the US year-end chart.

5 - Around the World (ATC)

US: Not on the list / FR: #48

This has no right being this catchy without ever, ever becoming annoying. What kind of evil pact did you make to get this result. How.

4 - Jeune et Con (Saez)

US: Not on the list / FR: #70

The title is “Young and Stupid”. It’s an extremely angry song against the establishment. Didn’t pay a lot of attention to it when it came out because well, I was 12, but I would drink up this kind of angry, angsty song only three/four years later. It has aged like fine wine too and feels like the ultimate ‘Ok Boomer’ song ; here’s a translation. It is brutal. You’re welcome.

If I had better taste this would be above the next two songs.

3 - Daddy DJ (Daddy DJ)

US: Not on the list / FR: #5

As I said in the intro, I started to BUY music that year. I could pick what I wanted to own, as long as my parents thought the cds were appropriate.

So I went to the nearest record store. It was called “Madison” and had a chrome aesthetic, with neons and fluorescent 90s shit everywhere, and banners with band names on it, and somewhat menacing posters (the Iron Maiden ones looked scary). It was very intimidating.

And so, 12 years old Johannes, under dad’s supervision, picked the cd they wanted above all the other cds in the shop knowing THAT one wouldn’t make anyone angry at home, went towards the desk, slapped a lot of coins on it, and bought this, trying to look as fierce and determined a 12 y.o can, which isn’t much.

It still slaps nearly twenty years later and I don’t regret a single thing. That’s all I have to say about Daddy DJ by Daddy DJ.

So I was making this list, feeling pretty good about putting Mylène Farmer so low on it, and I was like oh wow, I genuinely love all these other songs more than the two she released that year! This feels great. This is healing. This is progress. It also means the most controversial things on the list are a nerd threatening people with a water pistol and Eminem spouting his usual bullshit empty provocations. No big deal. It’s okay! Moving on.

What was the French #1 for that year, by the way? I can’t rememb-

OH SHIT OH F█CK

OH NO

2 - Moi Lolita (Alizée)

US: Not on the list / FR: #1

Meet the new boss. Same as the old boss.

Mylène Farmer wrote this for Alizée. Screw the entire universe. I want her off my lists but I can’t because I need to make them honestly.

“I’m not a sucker, I never bought the album AND I never bought these singles in a SHOP, I got them in a garage sale the next year for less that a quarter of the price”, says the person who is, in fact, clearly and definitely a sucker.

How can a song be so horribly catchy and horribly controversial at the same time. HOW. It’s unfair. For some context about how controversial this is if you’re an English speaker, this is what would happen if Bad Guy by Billie Eilish was the catchiest shit in the world. This was almost #1 on my list before I noticed my actual #1 song made it pretty high on the French year-end list despite being mysteriously absent from the US one.

Also I’m glad the music video provides a mostly harmless context: this girl is supposed to babysit her little sister, but she went dancing in a club. And the little sister is looking after her instead. I’m saying “mostly” harmless because there’s that creepy guy who keeps watching her, as if the story was saying “you should not do this and you are putting yourself in danger and this will end horribly”. Which is a sentiment I can definitely get behind, and at the time, I was already highly skeptical about the message this song was sending even if I loved it. I’m just judging that through the comments I was writing next to it on my “favorite songs” lists (”leave your little sister out of this, Alizée”):

Bonus: most relatable comment on the video by a mile.

Same, my dude.

This is why the first album I bought was Daddy DJ and not that one or, uh, the next one.

1 - Stan (Eminem)

US: Not on the list either?? What happened. Why / FR: #18

This song actually created a new English verb. Think about that for a second.

Also, until the end of my life, I will wonder why people suddenly decided, a couple of years ago, than “to stan” now meant “admiring a lot and being a huge fan of” instead of “being a creepy obsessed stalker and possibly dangerous”.

Anyhow.

I couldn’t understand one tenth of the lyrics at the time this was a hit, but I still sneakily put it on my tapes. I knew my parents disapproved. Oh, I liked it. I loved it. I adored it.

I was also terrified of it.

One of the only lines I clearly understood with my limited English was the “I’m your biggest fan” line, and how increasingly dangerous the guy sounded, and that Eminem was trying to answer him at the end but it was too late and he had already done some horrible shit.

This is a horror story in song form, it stays with you long after it’s over every time you listen to it, and it’s a rare and precious thing.

I’m still genuinely terrified after all these years, though.

Next up: another mix of embarrassing shit and valid stuff

[sonicawareness]

The Best Albums of 2019

After listening to more than 2000 new albums in 2019, I’ve narrowed my picks down to The 20 Best Records of 2019.

I’ve included 3 essential songs from each pick, as well as a choice lyrical clip and a brief description of the album.

Noting beats actually LISTENING TO MUSIC! So don’t just read my thoughts: follow and listen to the Spotify playlist containing 60 songs from the top 20 albums:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5TWlfWoo54MQ5cYTMmB0RI?si=M_23L6DDRieVuA845A90Pg

01: Yung Gravy - Sensational

Aptly titled Sensational, this debut full-length is a thirty minute party that dances between the hottest trap beats, well-placed samples, and the young Minnesota rapper’s braggadocious persona and ridiculous raps

Hey Alexa, how many bitches can we fit in the Tesla?...Pull up in that Model X with your model ex!

“Whip a Tesla” • “1 Thot 2 Thot Red Thot Blue Thot” • “The Boys Are Back in Town”

02: TWICE - &TWICE • Feel Special EP • FANCY YOU EP

Nine young South Korean women radiate endless energy, bountiful bliss, and some of the catchiest songs to come out not only in 2019 but recent memory 

Even when things go wrong, feelings out of control: lessons, to be sure. Be okay, all right! Even a crying face is glittering, filter and laugh! You can return to invincibility, right? Blow off, and we havin’ fun! [Translated from original Japanese]

“Fake and True” • “Breakthrough” • “Stronger”

03: Sublime with Rome - Blessings

Frontman, bandleader, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Rome Ramirez delivers his finest record to date: eleven heartfelt reggae-driven songs that are as well-written as they are masterfully recorded and produced

Watching you feel good tonight: it's your song up on the station, and we don't even know no words. I wanna hear you roll your R’s, singing Spanish in the car, “Dime algo hermosa tonight”.

“Wicked Heart” • “Light On” • “For the Night”

04: Bring Me the Horizon - amo 

Cohesive yet genre-spanning (metalcore, hip-hop, electronic, and pop, to name just a few), the sixth album from the English quintet is an emotional yet insightful rollercoaster masterpiece

Before the truth will set you free, it'll piss you off. Before you find a place to be, you're gonna lose the plot. Too late to tell you now, one ear and right out the other one ‘cause all you ever do is chant the same old mantra.

“MANTRA” • “wonderful life” • “i apologise if you feel something”

05: Weezer - Weezer (Black Album)

Expertly produced and instantly memorable, the long-running Rivers Cuomo-driven California quartet is once again in top form, adding yet another fresh and unique — but distinctly Weezer — record to their extensive discography 

Don't get mad at me, I'm just being honest. I should have lied, now you're mad at me? I'm just being honest. How 'bout from now on you'll write the script, I'll read the lines?

“Can’t Knock the Hustle” • “Zombie Bastards” • “Living in L.A.”

06: Big Data - 3.0

Like this sophomore album’s lyrical content — exploration of the impact artificial intelligence will have on humans and on the Earth — the latest project from producer, multi-instrumentalist, and mastermind Alan Wilkis is paradoxically dark yet bright; like AI, this album’s execution is equally flawless and Dangerous

I created a monster, it's out of control, it's going to take me...I didn't know what I was making...But now it's coming, coming for all of us!

“Monster” • “See Through” • “Evolution Once Again”

07: blackbear - ANONYMOUS

Vibrant yet dark, personal yet accessible, the fifth album from Mat Musto is a collection of 18 vulnerable, confessional songs told over slick electronic and hip-hop sounds

You drop the bag and ask me how my weekend was. I love that, though. You laugh when I make stupid jokes, and when I went to rehab, you didn't judge me that bad. I struggle with addiction probs, you always got my back. What am I gonna do the day that my drug dealer moves away? Whatever am I gonna say to my new plug? It just ain't the same.

“DOWN” • “HATE MY GUTS” • “DRUG DEALER”

08: Denzel Curry - ZUU

Hit-after-hit of hip-hop bangers pack this album’s half-hour runtime, with a plethora of guests joining the fray but never quite knocking it out like the young Miami native, Denzel Curry 

First they mockin', now they hoppin', all on the wave, 'cause they see me poppin'. Big-big-big large pockets, they start flockin'. Here's what I say when they ass keep knockin'...

“RICKY” • “BIRDZ” • “ZUU”

09: DaBaby - KIRK / Baby on Baby

On his two 2019 albums, his first proper efforts after countless mixtapes and singles, DaBaby unleashes his signature, incessant vocals over relentless trap and modern hip-hop beats

Prolly heard I was broke from a broke nigga, prolly heard I'm a ho from a ho! I don't know what you know, I ain't runnin' from no nigga, let’s go!

“BOP” • “OFF THE RIP” • “Suge”

10: Bayside - Interrobang

On their eighth album, the Anthony Raneri-fronted New York natives sound refreshed, focused, and tighter than ever telling their trademark tales of heartbreak and healing

I love that music saved you, and Lord knows it’s saved me too, but songs never love you back, and you never know the person preaching to you...

“Interrobang” • “Prayers” • “Bury Me”

11: The Hold Steady - Thrashing Thru The Passion

Few frontmen can weave an album’s worth of compelling narratives, yet the Brooklyn band’s Craig Finn finds himself on the seventh The Hold Steady album once again delivering ten more engaging, interlocked tales over his band’s fierce guitar riffs and all-too-catchy choruses

Thanks for listening, thanks for understanding: tequila takeoff, Tecate landing.

“Entitlement Crew” • “Denver Haircut” • “You Did Good Kid”

12: Electric Guest - KIN

Sugary sweet, the third record from the California duo promptly polishes any rough few rough edges they once had to deliver a perfectly slick yet quirkily heartwarming collection of eleven easy-listening songs

I'm like, “this mothafucka might sue me, and that mothafucka might boo me”. I'ma keep on goin' to a better day, all this other bitterness can fade away.

“Dollar” • “I Got the Money” • “More”

13: Billie Eilish - WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?

Part punk energy without sounding even slightly punk, part emo diary without being a dashboard confessional, the debut record from American teenager Billie Eilish craftily bounces between genres, haunting sounds, and strange stories

If you think I’m pretty, you should see me in a crown. I'm gonna run this nothing town. Watch me make 'em bow one by one by one.

“bad guy” • “my strange addiction” • “you should see me in a crown”

14: The Cat Empire - Stolen Diamonds

The eighth album from Australia’s The Cat Empire is a full-blown dance party packed with catchy, clever songwriting and a room full of drums, horns, strings, keyboards, turntables, and bass

Operator, please, I can’t get out my head. Tell me where I’m going or where I’m being led. Tell me like an order, and order I’ll obey. Maybe I just thought you said, or did I did I hear you say, “We’re going to ([kill a man]) Kilaman-jaro, jaro…”

“KIla” • “Stolen Diamonds” • “Ready Now”

15: Dirty Heads - Super Moon

Co-frontmen Dirty J and Duddy B return to the beach for the seventh Dirty Heads album, borrowing sounds from across their entire discography of acoustic guitars and witty hip-hop to craft a surprisingly delicate record

I'm a flame, I'm a beacon that won't go out. In the dark, in the rain, I'm your lighthouse. When you can't stand the pain, hope you know now, I'll keep you safe, I'm your lighthouse.

“Super Moon” • “Lift Me Up” • “Tender Boy”

16: TENDER - Fear of Falling Asleep

Dark and uninviting, the second album from this London duo is an intimidating but rewarding listen delicately spiced with just enough hooks to keep you trapped in its atmospheric dreams 

I’ll be looking for the scent when it goes cold. I’ve been trying to beat the maze with a blindfold on. I’ve been foraging through mud and sticks searching for that power that don’t exist.

“Closer Still” • “Bottled Up” • “Handmade Ego”

17: Logic - Confessions of a Dangerous Mind / Supermarket Soundtrack

Logic returns once again with countless rhymes delivered over his trademark breathless bars, frequently painting an all-too-vivid picture of a famous rapper struggling to comprehend the world around him

All these comments got me lost in my mind; all these thoughts that I'm having are not mine. I always post that I'm having a good time so my life looks perfect online...

“Homicide” • “Don’t Be Afraid to Be Different” • “Lemon Drop”

18: Tyga - Legendary

More than just a collection of hits, the seventh album from the Compton rapper is well-sequenced and effortlessly laced with hook-after-hook for Tyga to deliver his signature obscene lines about things he self-admittedly has too many [sic] of: money, cash, hoes, cars, clothes, flows

Hey, shut the fuck up, bitch, you know who I are. Point blank range, and I'm shootin' for the stars. You niggas subpar and I just raised the bar. You got Rollies on your wrist, this is Chopard. Slide on your block like a fuckin' go-kart, my nigga A&R, still got an AR.

“Haute” • “Lightskin Little Wayne” • “On Me”

19: The Chainsmokers - World War Joy

The third album in three years from Alex Pall and Drew Taggart (and no shortage of guests) is an easy, light collection of ten slick relationship-focused pop songs that find the duo largely eschewing their dance-centric history 

You said, "Hey, whatcha doing for the rest of your life?" and I said, "I don't even know what I'm doing tonight". Went from one conversation to your lips on mine.

“The Reaper” • “Family” • “P.S. I Hope You’re Happy”

20: Bear Hands - Fake Tunes

Brooklyn’s Bear Hands returns with another collection of bright, bouncy songs that ever-so-slightly conceal the trio’s underlying sadness and struggles  

I don't see how you think you can come to me, and bitch to me, lay out your problems, like ancient history, like I ain't got no other shit to do. I love you, baby, but my lips are turnin' blue.

“Blue Lips” • “Back Seat Driver (Spirit Guide)” • “Mr. Radioactive”

THE BEST ALBUMS OF 2019

Yung Gravy - Sensational

TWICE - &TWICE • Feel Special EP • FANCY YOU EP

Sublime with Rome - Blessings

Bring Me the Horizon - amo 

Weezer - Weezer (Black Album)

Big Data - 3.0

blackbear - ANONYMOUS

Denzel Curry - ZUU

DaBaby - KIRK / Baby on Baby

Bayside - Interrobang

The Hold Steady - Thrashing Thru The Passion

Electric Guest - KIN

Billie Eilish - WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?

The Cat Empire - Stolen Diamonds

Dirty Heads - Super Moon

TENDER - Fear of Falling Asleep

Logic - Confessions of a Dangerous Mind / Supermarket Soundtrack

Tyga - Legendary

The Chainsmokers - World War Joy

Bear Hands - Fake Tunes

[all-at-once-you-are-the-one]

Stream of Consciousness Lover Album Reaction

I wrote out my first thoughts while listening to the album and put them in one big post. I hope you find them as funny as I do lmao

1. I Forget That You Existed

LOL so that’s what the drake Easter egg was about!

Who is this about????

NIIIIiiiiiiiiiIIIiiiiCE

SHE SOUNDS SO GOOD

I JUST FORGOT WHAT THEY WERE LMAOOO

HER LAUGH!! SO CUTE!!

This track is somehow savage and adorable at the same time

So......yeah.......

ShnfhKJHGKSHDKGHSKGHSJG

2. Cruel Summer

This is giving me Katy perry vibes

The devils roll their dice line is from this?? Didn’t expect that

This is maybe the catchiest song I’ve ever heard

Why is this not a single??????

STILL DONT KNOW WHAT SUMMERS A KNIFE MEANS

EXPLAIN TAYLOR

This also kind of gives me Jonas brothers vibes, why???

Again.....what is this about???

OooOOoooOooWhoooooAAAAhh i loveeee this

OOOH no you know what this gives me GETAWAY CAR vibes

Wait...do we think that at the beginning joe wanted to keep their relationship private and Taylor agreed but then changed her mind? WAIT NO.....is this about her having to keep her love for joe secret at first the summer they met because she was with someone else/it was too soon??

3. Lover

Ok SUPER WEIRD transition into lover but OK

As much as I love albums with a clear narrative like rep I also like being all over the place so this is fine

CAN I GO WHERE YOU GOOOOOO

FOR EVER AND EVER ANDIIIII

YOURE MY MY MY MYYYYY LOVER

I wonder what inspired her to use the term lover? Does she not know that normal people don’t speak like that?

WAIT IS THE REASON LOVER COMES AFTER CRUEL SUMMER because of the 3 summers line?? Like look how we started...now were here

Does the album begin with i forgot you existed because its like ok this Kanye situation happened...but now were gonna forget about that and talk about the realer real story of the past couple years of my life rather than seeing it through the lens of that story like on rep

4. The Man

THE ACCURACY

THE ACCURAACCCCYYYYYYYYY

IT HUUURRTTSSS

Honestly though i actually thought this one would be more savage, i thi

DID SHE JUST SAY BITCHES AND MODELSSSS?????

SLJGSHUKGHKDG

Never mind this is as savage as i wanted

I should know better than to judge a Taylor song before the bridge

Again why isn’t this a single.....it better be

5. The Archer

The emotional whiplash this album is giving me is insane.

It’s like RED but with synths

Is the archer placed here because part of her lack of self confidence comes from the things the media says about her (because she’s a woman not a man?) INTERESTING THOUGHT

Don’t have much else to say about this, we already know

.....

Wow the cake i bought for tonight is somehow way too sweet

6. I Think He Knows

Definitely didn’t think i think he knows was about being horny af

But this is so catchy

Why is everything so catchy?? Literally every song should be a single

BOY I UNDERSTAND the confidence!! After the archer!! I love that he makes her feel that way1!!

I THINK HE KNOOOOOOOWWWWSS

This gives me teenage dream vibes and i fucking love that song

7. Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince

Ok time for the one with the weird title

I love how she keeps comparing her current feelings to how she felt as a teenager!! How its the same and different....very good.

SHES A BAD BAD GIRL

More dice!

Is she imagining what it would be like if she was in this relationship in high school? Because I DO THAT ALL THE TIIIIME GIRL SAME

THATS MY WHOLE WORLD SOOOO CUUUUTE

YOU PLAY STUPID GAMES YOU WIN STUPID PRIZES

VOTED

MOST

LIKELY

TO

RUN

AWAY

WITH

YOU

I really like this one. I didn’t expect I would.

This should be a single.

8. Paper Rings

THE VOICE EFFECT

She’s singing so fast on these songs!!!! I CANT KEEP UPP

UH HUH

THATS RIGHT

This is so retro and i loooooooooooooooooooooove it

DIRTY DREAMS??????? TAYLOR PLEASE

OMG THE COLOUR WE PAINTED YOUR BROTHERS WALL

THE PICTURE

THE PICTURE

FROM THE REP MAGAZINES

SDIHGUSHGUKHDZRKUGHKUDZHGUHDZGHDKZHGYIDZJLGJLDJGJSDJGDHZGHLGHLSHGHDG

II LIKE SHINY THINGS

THIS SONG IS SO FUN! ALL THESE SONGS ARE SO FUN!!

Ok baby boy that’s kinda weird but you know what..

....

....

Ok its still weird but maybe it will grow on me

This should be a single.

9. Cornelia Street

HERE IT IS!!! THE FIRST TAYLOR PRODUCED SONG

I NEVER WANT CORNELIA STREET AGAIN?? WHAT IS THIS ABOUT?? THEIR WORST FIGHT? ANOTHER RELATIONSIP? QUESTIONS

The storytelling!

Wait......is this about before they ran away together in CIWYW?? Like she thought he didn’t really want her so she was gonna run away alone...but then he was like no i really do lets go

I totally thought that this was the one with the staring out the window like I’m not your favorite town line was from

She ended it with the line she started with (i think)? Ike she used to!

Kinda feel like people hyped this one up too much but i do like it

10. Death by a Thousand Cuts

The piano!!!!

Like a thousand notes a thousand cuts

Look through the windows of this love - like the heart on her eye! I get it I GET IT lmaoooo

If this song was on red it would have the saddest production but on this album its a bop

11. London Boy

IS THAT JOE??? OMG lmao

HER ACCENT LMAOOOOOOOOO

I don’t know if this song is supposed to be as hilarious as i think it is but i really do think its hilarious

What does like a Tennessee Stella McCartney even mean????

I kinda feel like this song is too specific to her life to be relatable so maybe that’s why i feel that way about it?

12. Soon You’ll Get Better

Ok great... so we went from that to the sad one

I have to prepare

I didn’t tell you i was scared....

Cause you have to...

The fact that this is the country song...

I cant

GOD NOW IM CRYING THIS IS SO SAD

That was the only song so far i had to actually stop typing for. God....I’m so sad for her and her family.

13. False God

I can barely take this song in because of what just came before.

But i really like it. And i really like the theme of religion on this album

14. You Need to Calm Down

NOW YNTCD IS PLAYING

??? IM LITERALLY SOO SAD FROM SOON YOULL GET BETTER STILL

I CANT

PROCESS

THIS

This album is literally all over the place, i keep trying to assign a narrative to it and its not working out so I’m just gonna give up

Sometimes albums are just collections of songs and not a coherent, linear story and that is ok! Even if its not what i prefer

It certainly didn’t bother me on her first few albums.

The one thing i take away from this is like...no wonder she’s so determined to be so overly positive, i think for her its that or break down crying in the face of what’s happening in her family

15. Afterglow

I really love this song!!! Hashtag relatable

......

Man..you can really tell even just from my typing that my heart isn’t in this anymore after that song

Like

Fuck

I think I’m just sad for me too, because i know that i will go through that too sooner rather than later and I already have friends dealing with losing a parent.

16. ME!

My only thought on this is god bless brendon Urie for injecting so much additional joy and energy into this song and making Taylor happy, i just get the vibe that she really needed that

ALSO WHAT THERES REALLY NO HEY KIDS SPELLING IS FUN

TAYLOR EXPLAAIAIIIIIIIAIAIIAN

We’ll see if its on my physical cd copies when they arrive...if not then maybe it was always planned to be a line only in the single version

17. It’s Nice to Have a Friend

Ok I don’t really like this song that much but i really like the messages she’s trying to send like...real love feels like hanging out with a childhood bestie, so comfortable

18. Daylight

I WAS LIKE MEH

BUT THE FUCKING BRIDGE

THE BRIDGE

IM EMOTIONALLY DESTROYED

Also something about the chorus reminds me of the chorus of starlight

STEP INTO THE DAYLIGHT AND LET IT GO

YES

I WAS LIKE NO IS THAT NOT A LYRIC??

BUT IT ISTHANK GOD

THE END

YOU ARE WHAT YOU LOVE

THAT WAS LIKE

MY MANTRA FOR A COUPLE YEARS A WHILE BACK

BECAUSE

I LOVED SO MANY PEOPLE BUT THEY DIDNT LOVE ME

AND I WANTED TO BE DEFINITED BY THE FACT THAT I LOVED THEM NOT THAT HTEY DIDNT LOVE ME

IIIIIIIIIIII

I

IN CONCLUSION:

My feelings are everywhere. Some songs disappointed me but some blew me away - soon you’ll get better is basically the new Never Grow Up for me which is saying a lot. Everything is catchy a hell though even the songs I didn’t like as much. Ultimately i would have liked more songs about varying subject matter esp. self love but as it is, it is still somehow so all over the place. It really just shows how many emotions and phases can be contained within one relationship (i mean I’m assuming every song about a relationship is about joe). I really think that the song about her mom maybe should have been placed somewhere else...I don’t know where I would have put it but that shit is HEAVY. I am so honored that she and her family would share that with us though. I have a million question about how Andrea is doing and if my theory on why tour hasn’t been announced is correct...maybe she will explain more in the interviews/secret session audio we’re getting in the next couple days. I think my favorite song is Lover but that may change. I don’t think any song on here tops my current all time favorite Taylor song though which is CIWYW. That’s a little disappointing but not every song or album has to be my fave! And this album will probably grow on me esp as i hear Taylor’s explanations of it. Rep did. I really did nooott feel good about most of rep at first, it took a few days.

[lavieboheme930]

515

Do you have a little sister? No The last person you kissed, how many times have you cried in front of them?  Never Do you know anyone who has been arrested? Yes. Think a lot before you fall asleep? Yes Ever been the only one trying to fix a relationship? TNo Are you guilty of flirting too much? No Did you ever set up a lemonade stand when you were a kid?No. Does virginity matter to you? Yeah...I’m saving myself until I meet the right person. Do you know anybody who was abused? No Have you ever bought or sold something on Facebook Marketplace? No. Do you feel uncomfortable sharing drinks with other people? Depends with who Is there something that happened in your past you hate talking about? Yeah Is there a difference between just love and in love? Yes. Are you good at admitting your problems? Sure How many times have you dated the person you’re with now? Not with anyone. Has your cell phone ever rung in class? No. But it has while at work Do you ever feel like just laying down and giving up? Yes Have you ever lied about your age? Nope Lied about your name? No. Do you sit on the mattresses in furniture stores? No Are there some topics that you aren’t very open about? Sure Have you ever had an encounter with a very dangerous animal? No. Have you ever fed a wild animal people food? No Would you rather die or eat another human being? What kind of question is this.  How about both!!! Do you wish that animals could talk? Why or why not? Yes  Then I’d know what goes on in my dog’s mind LOL Who did you last fall asleep with? no one. Now your cell phone, what color is it? black. Who were you last in a car with? Beki. What color was the last vehicle you were in? Grey. Have you had “the best night of your life”? Yes. Toilet papered someones house? No Who was the last person you high-fived? Even after a year the answer is still Sal..I think LOL Do you own a romper? Yes 2 What does your computer’s slow-loading cursor look like? I never noticed LOL. Would you rather have a trampoline or swimming pool? neither What was the name of the first porcelain doll you got? Chrissy...no joke.  That’s why my mom got it, cause it was my name  Do you sell any products? If so, what? Writing gigs on Fiverr.  I sold Avon for a bit...NEVER AGAIN!!! They are the WORST If not, do you want to start a business? Read above Have your parents ever crushed your dreams? No. Do you own anything cheetah print? No. Have you ever made a collage for your bedroom wall? No. Do you make DIY projects and gifts? No.   Owls or peacocks? Both Lions or horses? both Is your kitchen floor black and white checkered? No. What do you make wishes on? 11:11 What’s the best natural pain reliever? I don’t know. Do you like trees? Yeah What’s your favorite Paramore song? I really don’t know What is your favorite color for bridesmaid dresses? LI don’t care Do you think you are pregnant? No Do you like the ocean? No Are you too shy to ask someone out? yes  The person you like kisses you on the forehead, do you find this cute? Yes Is there a high chance of you going out to the movies soon? There is actually What are you listening to? I Wanna Be With You -Mandy Moore Have you ever dated someone longer than a year? No Would you be able to climb out your bedroom window to sneak out? I wouldn’t want to Can you taste the difference between brand name food and store brand food? Yes Would you be embarrassed to buy pads/tampons/condoms? Which one more? Neither Do you still own a VCR? No. Have you ever purchased Girl Scout cookies? Yeah. Do you own a nightgown? No. Who is one rapper that just always tends to get on your nerves? Why? Kanye.  Can’t stand him at all Has anyone ever made you breakfast in bed? Were they trying to suck up? No. When will be the next time you’ll get a shot? What is this shot anyway? Hopefully never When will you next eat tacos? Do you even like tacos, or not so much? I don’t know Do you know anyone who is pregnant? Yes Would you or have you ever engaged in casual sex? No What’s your favorite thing about spring? Weather Have you ever tried belly dancing? If so, did you like it? No Were you a part of any clique in high school? I was homeschooled for high school Have you ever given blood? No Do you like the way you grew up? Sure. Would you prefer to read or write poetry? Write. If you were to have a child, what would the last name be? No idea Are you currently working? And if so do you like your job? Yes and love it. Have you ever walked out on a job or just not showed up? Yes when I worked at Starbucks.  Worst company to work for Have you told your parents all of your secrets from when you were a teen? I don’t even think I had secrets back then Would you rather be able to fly or walk on water? Neither What’s the best club you’ve ever been to? The Stand comedy club is my favorite Which sport are you the best at playing? figure skating Do you know anyone who has gotten pregnant despite using contraception? No Are you planning on buying a house in the near future? NNo What was your favorite family vacation you went on as a kid?Boston What’s something about you that others might find unpleasant or off-putting? I don’t know Have you ever kissed someone with a beard? No When you were younger, did you believe in Santa?  Yeah. Are you going to make your kids believe in Santa? No Have you ever made your own calendar? No. What foreign language did you take in high school? French and Spanish Do your parents have gray hair? Yeah. What’s your favorite Katy Perry song? Wide Awake and Part of Me What was the last thing you did that made you feel proud of yourself? Getting a promotion in the freelance platform I use for my writing What was the last significant and great thing that happened in your life? Nothing I can think of What is your favorite Starbucks’ drink? I don’t go there. Who are your last 3 missed calls from? Wrong numbers Do you like Skittles? No Do you blow dry your hair? No. How do you like your eggs? egg salad What song is the catchiest song you know? Look What You Made Me Do -Taylor Swift What is your greatest life accomplishment? No idea Who is the last person you left a voicemail for? No one Which is better: the Twilight book, or the Twilight movie? Books Do you enjoy crossword puzzles? No Do you own any records? No. Used to Who was the last guy you called? Dad You can only listen to THREE CDs for the rest of your life. What are they? I can’t think with questions like this now What is the most unique or uncommon thing about you? I’m just unique in my own way What happened the last time you were in a fight with someone? I don’t fight with anyone Have you ever been in a physical fight? Who started it? No. What is your favorite type of kiss/way of kissing? I don’t know. Favorite form of affection in general/not sexual/etc? hugs What do you think about anime? Not a fan Who is the last person you unfollowed on Tumblr, and why did you do this? I have no idea What are some upcoming concerts in your town/city? Nope Is there any type of medicine you can’t take? For what reason? I get sick with any medicine really Would you rather have potato or chicken noodle soup if you had to? potato If something on your body hurts, which part is it most likely to be? Depends Is Russian or Native American history more interesting to you? Native American. Have you ever put gum on the bottom of your desk/chair? No Would you rather go to the movies, drive-in, or stay at home and watch a movie? Go to the movies. Would you ever be a race-car driver? No. What kind of deodorant do you use? Dove Have you ever wished you were born the opposite sex? No. What was the last thing you spent a lot of time thinking about? I’m not sure. What do you think about astrology/the zodiac? If you used to believe/not believe in it, what changed your mind? I believe it What is one conspiracy you believe in? Or one you think is total crap? I don’t believe in any of them.  And the people that tell me 9/11 was one need to stop with that shit.  As someone who has lived in NYC all my life, it’s hard enough that I had to live through that day. Stop saying stuff about it that isn’t true!!! Where was the last place you didn’t want to go but had to anyway? No idea When was the last time you yelled/screamed and why? Screamed when Murr came on the stage at the last Jokers show I was at What was the last big decision you made? Do you think you made the right choice? No idea What Hogwarts house are you in? What do you think about the “stereotypes” regarding your house? I'm always in Slyterin LOL What is something you want to do, but you don’t think you’ll ever be able to? No idea When was the last time you left somewhere for forever (or at least don’t plan on returning)? I don’t know What was the last thing you quit? nothing I can think of Do you like to help people? How about animals? Which would you rather help, if it applies? Helping animals As an adult, what is the most and least you’ve weighed? I don’t know What is something you like that no one else you know likes too? No idea What is something you don’t like that everyone seems to like?I DON’T KNOW!! These questions are getting annoying now Do you follow a particular diet/meal-plan/ethic? No What is a subject you tend to avoid with other people, for whatever reason? Politics. What is the longest (or most involved) thing you’ve ever written? My novels Do you prefer to live with others or by yourself? Why is this?others What scares you about getting older? I don’t know What about something you’ve done that sounds too wild to believe? Nothing What was the last thing someone made fun of you for? My love for Staten Island Do you have a member of the opposite sex you’ve told everything to? Yeah What color hair do you find sexiest on the opposite gender? Doesn’t matter to me Who last slept in your bed besides you? No one If the last person you had sex with asked you to date them, would you?Never had sex If you could see any musician live, front row, who would you choose? Ed Sheeran.  Don’t know What is your favorite social networking site? Facebook and Twitter Has anyone in your family fought in any of the wars? My grandfathers were in WWII Has a stray dog ever tried to bite you? No. Are you normally a person to tell people off? No Do you even wear any jeans other than skinny anymore? Nope What did you talk about at lunch today with your friends? I’m not in school. Are you sensitive to caffeine? Nope. How do you usually get around? Subway Have you ever been accused of being too clingy? No Do you like vitamin water? Nope Do you think too little or too much? Way too much Would you rather vacation by a beach or a lake? Neither Do you ever keep arguing when you know you’re wrong? No Are you ticklish? Yes. What do you think of dating websites? Hated them Which show is better: SpongeBob Squarepants or The Fairly Odd Parents? Damn, I can’t decide Think you could cut off your own foot if it meant saving your leg? WTF.... What is the worst thing about having a pet? Knowing they’ll die. :( Have you ever actually seen someone fall on a banana peel? No. Do moths freak you out? N Did you ever cut your own hair when you were little? No. What is your favorite fruit? apples Who last messaged you on Facebook? Lynda Have you ever had surgery or stitches? Both   Do you own any clothing that has animal print? Yes. Does your family eat dinner together? Sometimes What was the last video game you played? No idea Have you ever touched a shark? a sandshark Do you prefer writing in print or cursive? Both. Do you have any family traditions? Like what? No . What is the best time you’ve ever had with your family? I don’t know...Vacations I guess What’s the scariest experience you’ve ever had? almost drowning when I was a kid What’s your favorite computer game? None What’s the biggest mistake people make on the first date? I don’t know Do you get turned on easily? sometimes it feels like ti LOL Do you still like to color? No  What’s your favorite children’s show? Paw Patrol lol. Would you ever get band artwork tattooed on you? No Is there someone you liked so much and nothing ever happened? Yes Has the last person you kissed met your family? Yes How many people of the opposite sex do you fully trust? 1 What is the one thing you remember most about January of last year? Started going to a new church How do you think you will look 3 years from now? Probably the same lol What would be number one on your bucket list? Go to Scotland How old do you think you’ll be when you make your will? I don’t know...though I did put on Facebook that all my Impractical Jokers stuff will be left to my best friend Mo LOL Do you get any of your songs from Limewire? not anymore Do you call anybody ‘baby’? Joey used to Where is the fanciest place you have ever visited? I don’t know Are your parents night owls or morning birds? Imorning birds Where did you buy the shirt you’re wearing now? Crystal’s Are you easy to get along with? Yes What do you usually do right when you wake up? Check my phone for messages What’s your biggest passion? writing and comedy Have you ever thrown your phone in anger? Yes.  When I found my dog Sammy dead in his bed.  I was so angry I threw my phone.

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #163

i’m too tired to think of song lyrics rn.

Do you have a little sister? Yes. The last person you kissed, how many times have you cried in front of them?  In her actual presence, I think once? Over a phone or Skype, like... two or three times. Do you know anyone who has been arrested? Yes. Think a lot before you fall asleep? SO MUCH. It's part of why I struggle to fall asleep. Brain doesn't stop. Ever been the only one trying to fix a relationship? That's the story of my fucking life. Romantically, just once. Are you guilty of flirting too much? Definitely not. Did you ever set up a lemonade stand when you were a kid? No. Does virginity matter to you? Not really anymore, no. So long you gave it up to someone you sincerely loved and were smart about it. Do you know anybody who was abused? A few emotionally. Have you ever bought or sold something on Facebook Marketplace? No. Do you feel uncomfortable sharing drinks with other people? YEAH. The only case in which it does't bother me too much is when I've been a *truly* s/o with you for a while. Like if I'd go beyond just kissing you, it shouldn't be a bit deal to just drink after you. Is there something that happened in your past you hate talking about? Does anyone not, really? Is there a difference between just love and in love? YEAH. Are you good at admitting your problems? Pretty easy for me. How many times have you dated the person you’re with now? Once. Has your cell phone ever rung in class? No. Do you ever feel like just laying down and giving up? Not really anymore!! I get down, but I never have the urge to just give up entirely. Have you ever lied about your age? When I was younger signing up for websites lmao. Lied about your name? No. Do you sit on the mattresses in furniture stores? Sometimes. Are there some topics that you aren’t very open about? Maybe? It depends on the person. Have you ever had an encounter with a very dangerous animal? No. Have you ever fed a wild animal people food? I mean I fed ducks bread as a kid/before I knew it was bad. Would you rather die or eat another human being? Die. Some things aren't worth living after you've done them. Do you wish that animals could talk? Why or why not? YES!!!!!! BOTH SIDES COULD LEARN SO MUCH!!!!!!! AND PEOPLE WOULD CARE ABOUT THEM MORE!!!!!!!!!!!! Who did you last fall asleep with? Sara. Now your cell phone, what color is it? Dark blue. Who were you last in a car with? Nicole. What color was the last vehicle you were in? White. Have you had “the best night of your life”? Eh. Probably not. Toilet papered someones house? I'm an adult. Who was the last person you high-fived? Probably Aubree or Ryder. Or the girl Colleen watches. Do you own a romper? Noooo, not my thing. What does your computer’s slow-loading cursor look like? Blue circle. Would you rather have a trampoline or swimming pool? Pool. What was the name of the first porcelain doll you got? Oh fuck that shit, I was afraid of porcelain dolls and still am. Do you sell any products? If so, what? No. If not, do you want to start a business? Well I wanna be a freelance photographer. Have your parents ever crushed your dreams? No. Do you own anything cheetah print? No. Have you ever made a collage for your bedroom wall? No. Do you make DIY projects and gifts? No. Don't have the motivation. Owls or peacocks? Owls. Lions or horses? Lions. Is your kitchen floor black and white checkered? No. What do you make wishes on? Nothing. What’s the best natural pain reliever? Sleep. Do you like trees? Yeah! What’s your favorite Paramore song? "That's What You Get." What is your favorite color for bridesmaid dresses? LIGHT PINK. Happy and soft colors! Do you think you are pregnant? That's impossible. Do you like the ocean? Yeah. You wouldn't see me deep it there, but I mean, it's cool. Are you too shy to ask someone out? Apparently not. I guess. I asked Juan, Tyler, and Sara, BUT only because I knew they liked me. The person you like kisses you on the forehead, do you find this cute? YES I FEEL SAFE AND LOVED AND IT'S JUST CUTE!!!!!! Is there a high chance of you going out to the movies soon? Dad and I may go see another soon-ish, but I doubt it. We both think The Meg looks good. What are you listening to? I swear I go back to binge "Cool Patrol" by NSP like every other month. Have you ever dated someone longer than a year? Once, and I can pretty much guarantee this one's gonna hit that mark. Would you be able to climb out your bedroom window to sneak out? If I could open the damn thing. Can you taste the difference between brand name food and store brand food? Sometimes. Would you be embarrassed to buy pads/tampons/condoms? Which one more? No. Do you still own a VCR? No. Have you ever purchased Girl Scout cookies? Yeah. Do you own a nightgown? No. Who is one rapper that just always tends to get on your nerves? Why? I can't stand Kanye, because y'know, he's a god-complexed dick. Has anyone ever made you breakfast in bed? Were they trying to suck up? No. When will be the next time you’ll get a shot? What is this shot anyway? I'unno. When will you next eat tacos? Do you even like tacos, or not so much? I hate tacos. Do you know anyone who is pregnant? One of my very best high school friends recently revealed she is and I am soooo fucking excited for her. Would you or have you ever engaged in casual sex? If we were both single there is one (1) person I probably would fuck I hate myself like a lot and I am a hypocrite. What’s your favorite thing about spring? Just the flowers. And that's it. Have you ever tried belly dancing? If so, did you like it? No, & that would be a blinding display. Were you a part of any clique in high school? Kinda? The goths, emos, metalheads, and scenes all kinda. Naturally came together. Most knew everyone's names and we kinda had this unspoken bond with all the others. We always sat together at lunch. Have you ever given blood? Yeah. I'd actually like to do it again, I think, with me drinking a good amount of water now. Do you like the way you grew up? The only thing I'd change is I wish chores were more firmly enforced. I don't do them enough, and I'm approaching 23. Would you prefer to read or write poetry? Write. If you were to have a child, what would the last name be? Well, mine? But once married I'd definitely get it changed to Sara's. I will not doom her with mine lmao. Are you currently working? And if so do you like your job? No. Have you ever walked out on a job or just not showed up? No. Have you told your parents all of your secrets from when you were a teen? No. Would you rather be able to fly or walk on water? Fly. What’s the best club you’ve ever been to? Never been to one. Which sport are you the best at playing? I wasn't bad at basketball last I played. Do you know anyone who has gotten pregnant despite using contraception? Probably. Are you planning on buying a house in the near future? Not the very recent future. A house/apartment will probably be rented first. What was your favorite family vacation you went on as a kid? Disney World. What's something about you that others might find unpleasant or off-putting? I'm hard to get to know due to me fearing judgment. I can be very defensive if you push me to talk about some things. Have you ever kissed someone with a beard? Jason had more of a goatee sometimes. When you were younger, did you believe in Santa?  Yeah. Are you going to make your kids believe in Santa? I don't want kids. If I did however, I probably would. Have you ever made your own calendar? No. What foreign language did you take in high school? One semester of Latin, German for four semesters. Do your parents have gray hair? Yeah. What's your favorite Katy Perry song? Uhhhhh I guess "E.T." What was the last thing you did that made you feel proud of yourself? I haven't acted on it yet, but I made the decision that I would make a sincere effort to fight AvPD and be way more open about myself. What was the last significant and great thing that happened in your life? Met Sara. What is your favorite Starbucks' drink? I don't go there. Who are your last 3 missed calls from? Vocational rehab, Mom, Colleen. Do you like Skittles? Yesssss. Do you blow dry your hair? No. How do you like your eggs? Fertilized by Mark Fischfuck goddammit What song is the catchiest song you know? Hmmm. I suppose maybe "Bad Romance," because I can enjoy like, ANY cover, as well as the original. What is your greatest life accomplishment? Healing. Who is the last person you left a voicemail for? VR. Which is better: the Twilight book, or the Twilight movie? I haven't read any, never watched any. Do you enjoy crossword puzzles? Yes. Do you own any records? No. I wish. Something I'd love to collect. Who was the last guy you called? Dad, probably. You can only listen to THREE CDs for the rest of your life. What are they? "Black Rain" by Ozzy Osbourne, "Black Album" by Metallica, and "The Ascension" by Otep. What is the most unique or uncommon thing about you? Uh I dunno. I guess having blue eyes??? Idk. What happened the last time you were in a fight with someone? I cut her ass out and ignored her. Have you ever been in a physical fight? Who started it? No. What is your favorite type of kiss/way of kissing? Hardcore making out. Favorite form of affection in general/not sexual/etc? Hand holding. Or tight hugs. What do you think about anime? They have some of the most interesting stories, tbh. Who is the last person you unfollowed on Tumblr, and why did you do this? Someone whose posting content changed and I didn't enjoy, probably. What are some upcoming concerts in your town/city? The only one I know of and care about is Metallica in January. Is there any type of medicine you can’t take? For what reason? Not that I know of. Would you rather have potato or chicken noodle soup if you had to? Never had potato, but I don't think I'd like it, so. I don't really like chicken noodle, either. If something on your body hurts, which part is it most likely to be? My damn knees. Is Russian or Native American history more interesting to you? Native American. Have you ever put gum on the bottom of your desk/chair? I'm not an animal. Would you rather go to the movies, drive-in, or stay at home and watch a movie? Go to the movies. Would you ever be a race-car driver? No. What kind of deodorant do you use? Secret. Have you ever wished you were born the opposite sex? No. What was the last thing you spent a lot of time thinking about? I'm not sure. What do you think about astrology/the zodiac? If you used to believe/not believe in it, what changed your mind? It's absolute bullshit. What is one conspiracy you believe in? Or one you think is total crap? You literally cannot convince me 9/11 wasn't orchestrated by the government. Stupid one, lizard people. Where was the last place you didn’t want to go but had to anyway? Urgent care. When was the last time you yelled/screamed and why? I dunno. What was the last big decision you made? Do you think you made the right choice? Permanently, absolutely, kick Colleen out of my life. I know it was the right choice. What Hogwarts house are you in? What do you think about the “stereotypes” regarding your house? I took a quiz out of boredom before, and I got Hufflepuff, very closely followed by Gryffindor. However, some questions were hard for me, as I know pretty much nothing about the series. So, don't know stereotypes either. What is something you want to do, but you don’t think you’ll ever be able to? Skydive. Don't have the guts. When was the last time you left somewhere for forever (or at least don’t plan on returning)? Ha, mental hospital. What was the last thing you quit? Meat. Do you like to help people? How about animals? Which would you rather help, if it applies? Duh!! And I dunno, really. I see us as equal. I don't really know which I'd go to first if both were in a crisis or something. As an adult, what is the most and least you’ve weighed? I don't even want to say what I weighed at the end of '16. The least was ~120, what I'm desperately trying to get back to. @_@ What is something you like that no one else you know likes too? *shrugs* What is something you don’t like that everyone seems to like? Mexican food came to mind. Do you follow a particular diet/meal-plan/ethic? Currently I do a 16-hour fast every day and then I'm also a vegetarian. What is a subject you tend to avoid with other people, for whatever reason? Politics. What is the longest (or most involved) thing you’ve ever written? Well, RP. You put all the shit I've written together, and it'd probably be longer than the Bible lmao. Do you prefer to live with others or by yourself? Why is this? OTHERS. I GET LONELY. What scares you about getting older? Feeling the physical effects. What about something you’ve done that sounds too wild to believe? I don't think anything, really. What was the last thing someone made fun of you for? I don't know. Do you have a member of the opposite sex you’ve told everything to? Jason knew everything at the time we were together. What color hair do you find sexiest on the opposite gender? I like unnaturally colored hair most, so... but for "normal" colors, black. Who last slept in your bed besides you? Sara. If the last person you had sex with asked you to date them, would you? I would *actually* kick him in the dick if he had the audacity. If you could see any musician live, front row, who would you choose? Metallica with Mom. What is your favorite social networking site? Facebook for the sake of keeping up with people, Tumblr for entertainment purposes. Has anyone in your family fought in any of the wars? No. Has a stray dog ever tried to bite you? No. Are you normally a person to tell people off? Deeefinitely not. Do you even wear any jeans other than skinny anymore? I don't wear jeans anymore period. What did you talk about at lunch today with your friends? I'm not in school. Are you sensitive to caffeine? Nope. How do you usually get around? Mom drives me. Have you ever been accused of being too clingy? No, even though I know I'm very clingy. Do you like vitamin water? I've never tried it. Do you think too little or too much? Waaaay too much. Would you rather vacation by a beach or a lake? Lake. Do you ever keep arguing when you know you’re wrong? It can make me feel embarrassed, but in most cases, I'm quick to drop it. Would your mom care if she found condoms in your room? She'd be confused as fuck considering she knows I'm not with a guy. Are you ticklish? Ugh yes. What do you think of dating websites? They work for some people, but, in general, I don't think they're the greatest idea when you consider how many desperate people there are. Now yes, there's most certainly sincere ones, but. I think you'd have to do some fishing to find the right person. Which show is better: SpongeBob Squarepants or The Fairly Odd Parents? Duuuude the latter. Show was dope my dude. Think you could cut off your own foot if it meant saving your leg? To save my leg, I think so. Well... I dunno, I guess it depends on the situation. I'd be concerned about blood loss. What is the worst thing about having a pet? Knowing they'll die. Have you ever actually seen someone fall on a banana peel? No. Do moths freak you out? They're absolutely beautiful to me, but at the same time, the size of their eyes are a liiittle bit creepy. Did you ever cut your own hair when you were little? No. What is your favorite fruit? Strawberries. Who last messaged you on Facebook? Bethany to let me know when the new wedding date was. Have you ever had surgery or stitches? Both twice. Do you own any clothing that has animal print? No. Does your family eat dinner together? Almost always. What was the last video game you played? Silent Hill 3. Have you ever touched a shark? No. Do you prefer writing in print or cursive? I write mostly in cursive. Do you have any family traditions? Like what? Not that we still do. What is the best time you’ve ever had with your family? I'm not positive. Maybe some summer days when we'd all be swimming and cooking out together. What’s the scariest experience you’ve ever had? The night of the breakup. No overdose or panic attack or anything was scarier than when I realized he was leaving. What’s your favorite computer game? World Of Warcraft kms. What’s the biggest mistake people make on the first date? Just my personal opinion, but some people get sexual way too fast. If you're looking for an actual, long-lasting relationship, you have to connect more emotionally. Do you get turned on easily? It depends on who you are, definitely. Some people can't do anything, yet another person can do the same thing and I'm turned on in an instant. Do you still like to color? Not especially. What’s your favorite children’s show? Pokemon. Would you ever get band artwork tattooed on you? Metallica has some badass designs, but I don't know. Eh, actually, that may be something I'd get whenever my mom passes away considering her quote, "All I need in life are my babies and Metallica," and I think she means it lmao. No one loves them more than this woman. Is there someone you liked so much and nothing ever happened? The biggest crush I had that didn't go anywhere was on Sebastian in high school, but I don't know about "so much?" Like I wasn't desperate to be together. Has the last person you kissed met your family? My mom, Dad, and Nicole. Hopefully Ashley and the kids if her husband doesn't wanna be a homophobic shit. How many people of the opposite sex do you fully trust? Just my dad. What is the one thing you remember most about January of last year? I was in the worst state of my life. Approaching my suicide attempt, so I was having the thoughts badly by that point. How do you think you will look 3 years from now? I better be a skinny legend with bomb-ass hair and more tats, boo. What would be number one on your bucket list? Touch a wild meerkat. Probably a pup above all. How old do you think you’ll be when you make your will? I dunno. Do you get any of your songs from Limewire? Lol how old is this??? I used to. Do you call anybody ‘baby’? Literally all my pets and Sara. Where is the fanciest place you have ever visited? Uhhhh I guess somewhere in Disney World??? Are your parents night owls or morning birds? I guess the latter is more accurate. Where did you buy the shirt you’re wearing now? Somewhere online. I found it on Facebook, don't recall the site it led to. Are you easy to get along with? I think and hope so. I'm very accepting. What do you usually do right when you wake up? Check the time. What’s your biggest passion? SPREADING POSITIVITY!!!!! Have you ever thrown your phone in anger? I believe I might have once when Jason and I were arguing?? If I did, it definitely wasn't that hard. I have a vague memory of throwing in onto the carpeted floor.

[voodoochili]

My Year in Music - Albums

You guys know how 2016 was an atrocious year that everybody hated and wanted to end months before it was over? Let’s revisit it so I can talk about some music I liked!

Thanks to the magic of Spotify Premium and the horror of the outside world, I listened to more new albums in 2016 than I ever have before in a single year. I was able to rank 50 albums worthy on putting of a best list, and I left out a ton that either did not make the cut or I haven’t spent enough time with. Yet it was such a fantastic year for music that I am sure there are plenty of excellent albums that I missed. While 2016 did not boast a singularly transcendent album like 2015′s To Pimp a Butterfly or 2014′s Black Messiah, it boasted a deep bench of excellent albums--an onslaught so overwhelming that my Spotify listening list nearly collapsed under its own digital weight. Anyway, enough jibber-jabber, here are the albums that stuck out to me as the cream of the crop (Yes, I left off Blonde on purpose).

Check ‘em out after the jump:

THE TOP 20:

20. Radiohead – A Moon Shaped Pool: A typically beautiful record from the world’s foremost paranoid androids, A Moon Shaped Pool is the first Radiohead album to fully integrate the arranging powers of guitarist Jonny Greenwood into the group’s sound. After spending much of the past decade as Paul Thomas Anderson’s go-to film scorer, Greenwood’s orchestral mastery nearly overtakes Thom Yorke’s falsetto as the record’s focal point. Marrying the glitchy electronics of the band’s early ‘00s output with soaring strings and minimalist piano, highlights like “Glass Eyes,” “Present Tense,” and “Daydreaming” stand up to the best material of the group’s career. The best moment of the record for me: finally hearing the impossibly sad studio version of “True Love Waits,” after spending nearly a decade obsessing over the live recording.

19. Beyoncé – Lemonade: In which pop culture’s most infallible figure opens up about her marital woes, enlisting the full power of some of the biggest names in the music industry to affirm her greatness. Lemonade is an album with towering singles (“Formation,” “Sorry”), but also a collection of spectacular moments, from the New Orleans-style horn rave-up at the beginning of “Daddy Lessons,” to the moment Jack White comes in at the chorus of “Don’t Hurt Yourself,” to her pained vocal runs towards the end of my favorite track, “All Night.” An audacious follow-up to the artistic and strategic brilliance of BEYONCÉ, Lemonade proves that Beyoncé will never simply rest in the limelight, but that she will forever use her station to empower, experiment and push music forward.

18. Isaiah Rashad – The Sun’s Tirade: “I got the music for the vibers,” chants Isaiah Rashad on “Rope/Rosegold,” and he’s not kidding. But it’s such a unique vibe, simultaneously laid-back and aggressive, with liquid, jazzy production that evokes the Dungeon Family at its most introspective. Isaiah invites us into his head, and whether he’s fighting off fans impatient with his long break between albums, reflecting on his nearly fatal battle with drugs and alcohol, or simply talking shit, his evocative pen and pronounced drawl bring out the best in each instrumental.

17. Kanye West – The Life of Pablo: Enough people have written enough about Kanye West in 2016, but here I go anyway. Whether or not the man has completely lost his rocker, he remains one of our greatest sonic architects. Each track on TLOP flows seamlessly into the next, building an exhilarating sense of forward momentum hurdling toward the tragic triptych of “FML.” “Real Friends,” and “Wolves” (keep Frank, I can take or leave Vic and Sia). If Kanye could just rein in his grossest impulses (I don’t need to hear about bleached anything, thank you very much), the album would place much higher on my list. Then again, if Kanye had any impulse control, he wouldn’t be Kanye, would he?

16. YG – Still Brazy: When YG emerged several years ago with “Toot It and Boot It,” who could have predicted that the charismatic, but seemingly- dunderheaded rapper from Compton could become one of our most reliable purveyors of political rage? A paranoid masterpiece of modern G-Funk with 4K production value, Still Brazy is a worthy follow up to My Krazy Life, my second favorite album of 2014. Still Brazy lacks the narrative cohesion of its predecessor, making up for it with a seething anger against the police, haters, the people who shot him outside his studio, and especially Donald Trump. We live in brazy times, and we’re lucky to have YG to give voice to our fear, confusion, and righteous fury.

15. Maxwell – blackSUMMERS’night: In a hype-driven, fast paced music industry that churns through artists as fast as it produces them, Maxwell works at his own pace. Released seven years after the confusingly titled BLACKsummers’night, Maxwell’s latest is a blissful oasis, a “Lake By The Ocean” if you will (you will!), tucked away from trends in mainstream urban music. Forever concerned with matters of the heart, Maxwell eschews the neo-soul of his early work. He refracts the sound grown-and-sexy icons from Seal to Sade, masterfully flexing his divine falsetto over liquid future-funk on “All The Ways Love Can Feel,” wallowing in bluesy murk on the epic “Lost,” and lamenting his devotion to an unfaithful lover on “Gods.” It’s been over two decades since Maxwell first introduced us to his Urban Hang Suite, yet Maxwell remains a unique and mysterious presence—one who lets his considerable talent speak for himself.

14. Shearwater – Jet Plane & Oxbow: Shearwater’s Jonathan Meiburg uses his intricately-crafted songs as bedrock for orchestral, ornate arrangements. Jet Plane & Oxbow finds Meiburg enlisting the services of composer Brian Reitzall (the man behind the original scores for Lost in Translation and the Friday Night Lights movie, among others) to create a tapestry of arresting synthetic sounds. Together, Meiburg, Reitzall and the band create a modern near-masterpiece of synth rock. Standout tracks include the gurgling, slowly-building “Backchannels,” the menacing bassline and disorienting orchestra of sound effects on “Filaments,” the Unforgettable Fire-style bombast of “Radio Silence,” and especially the gorgeous, generational power-ballad “Wildlife in America,” a soaring rumination on the seeming impossibility of the American dream.

13. Young Thug – JEFFERY: Possibly the most eccentric and enigmatic figure in the world of modern Hip-Hop (which is saying a lot), Young Thug’s decision to name his latest “mixtape” after his government name seemed to indicate a more personal approach to his art. Turns out, it didn’t really happen that way, with JEFFERY bringing the same gonzo melodies and glorious non-sequiturs of his previous releases. What’s new?: the dude levels the fuck up when it comes to his rhyming, especially on the opening and closing tracks. JEFFERY is a revealing look into Thugger’s mind and possibly into his artistic process. Each track on the tape is named after an influence or personal hero (and one named for “Harambe” because in order to be a meme, you have to be aware of memes I guess), and many of them consciously ape and inhabit the styles of the namesake. “Future Swag” imitates Future’s clipped, rhythmic cadence over a bouncing 808 Mafia production. “Wyclef Jean” is steeped in the music of the Caribbean, creating a thrilling hybrid of trap music and roots reggae. My favorite track on the project changes every day, but right now it’s probably “RiRi,” which boasts Jeffery’s most affecting, impassioned vocal to date. “IF YOU WANT IT YOU GOTTA EAAAAARN IT,” Thug barks (like a goddamn seal), and by God I think he’s earned it.

12. Field Music – Commontime: The long-standing project of brothers Peter and David Brewis, Field Music performs angular, fractured pop songs that often buck standard songwriting conventions. They have melodies for days, buried under addictive herky-jerk rhythms and droning keys. The result is a disorienting but addictive swirl of distinctly British art rock, echoing the dueling songwriter avant-pop of XTC, the fanciful working-class heroics of Roxy Music, and the pop adventurism of the Synchronicity-era Police. Commontime features some of the catchiest guitar-based music I heard all year, with the choruses from “The Noisy Days Are Over,” “Disappointed,” and “It’s a Good Thing” occupying a disproportionate amount of real estate in my cerebral cortex since January.

11. Danny Brown – Atrocity Exhibition: The dominant story in much of Hip-Hop is a rags-to-riches narrative, a triumphant tale from bricks to Billboards, from grams to Grammies, etcetera. Nobody in Hip-Hop, however, makes you feel the rags part of the story as deeply as Danny Brown. To Danny Brown, extreme poverty is not merely a life stage to overcome, but a trauma with aftershocks that never go away. “Some people think I think to much/I don’t think I think enough,” raps on “Rolling Stone.” His third straight classic since 2011’s XXX, Atrocity Exhibition, named after the discordant opening track to Joy Division’s notoriously bleak Closer, is a typically gritty expedition into Danny Brown’s consciousness, with outrageous punchlines counterweighting visceral depictions of debauchery and dark observations about his rough early life. Teaming up with production partner Paul White for 10 of the 15 tracks, Atrocity Exhibition finds Danny weaving his rhymes through an appealing industrial murk, equally reminiscent of RZA’s production on Liquid Swords and This Heat’s darkest sound collages. He soberly recalls his life as a low-level crack dealer on “Tell Me What I Don’t Know,” seethes a quiet despair on “Downward Spiral,” and frenetically proclaims his rhyming supremacy on “When It Rain.”

10. Chance The Rapper – Coloring Book: In 2016, Chance The Rapper finally shunted his label as the Next Big Thing to embrace his destiny as one of the Current Big Things. Few artists of any age, genre, or era can match his contagious exuberance, charisma, and skill. All of these attributes come out in full-force on Coloring Book, his third mixtape. Supercharged with gospel choirs, heavenly brass, and an assist from an assortment of music superstars and talented local friends, Coloring Book was a ray of light in a dark year. Coloring Book lacks much of the impish charm of Acid Rap, and trades much of that album’s social consciousness for earnest biblical pronouncements, but it radiates a special type of warmth and instills a sense of hope that I could not find elsewhere this year. I do not have the same relationship with God that Chance The Rapper does, but I can appreciate the way his spirituality informs his intense, infectious love for his friends, his family, and his infant daughter. The world is a better place for having Chance in it, and, remarkably, this is still just the beginning.

9. Cymbals Eat Guitars – Pretty Years: The best band to spring from Staten Island since the dawn of the Wu-Tang Clan, Pretty Years is the fourth and best album from Cymbals Eat Guitars. Long-time purveyors of surround sound shoegaze pop, this album finds the group demonstrating their songwriting chops, ranging from the hardcore stylings of “Beam,” to the Explosions in the Sky meets jangle-rock of “Have a Heart,” to the “Spirit in the Night”-esque saxophone stomp of “Wish”, to the titanic slow build of closer “Shrine.” On Pretty Years, the band embraces a more personal style of lyricism, writing songs about specific days and events. With producer John Congleton collecting the band’s ringing guitars and stampeding drums into a formidable explosion of sound, the epic expanse of the instrumentals combines with the specific and personal lyrics to illustrate the divine beauty of everyday life.

8. Kendrick Lamar – untitled unmastered: Though the songs that comprise untitled unmastered emerged from the To Pimp a Butterfly sessions, it does them a disservice to call them outtakes. They have no names, just numbers and dates, and they do not quite fit into the intricate TPAB narrative; but these songs, especially the four in the record’s incredible back half, are among his most musically adventurous and sharply written tracks to date. Less frenetic and more laid back than much of its parent album (the Thundercat basslines have more room to breathe, the strings and horns are sparing, but effective), untitled unmastered is a thought-provoking and often humorous reflection on Kendrick Lamar’s career and a meditation on a young black man’s position in society today. My favorite track: the swirling, gorgeously odd, Cee-Lo Green-assisted “untitled 06,” a triumphant ode to the artistic spirit.

7. Noname – Telefone: Noname is an inspiration, an old soul trapped in the body of a 25-year old rapper from the South Side. She rocks a conversational, poetic flow, rhyming about grief, violence in Chicago, and abortion with an earned wisdom and a feather-light touch, illuminating a perspective too often ignored in the media today. Produced by a cadre of fellow Chicago prodigies, including Saba, Phoelix, Cam O’bi, and Monte Booker, Telefone is one of the most beautiful albums I heard all year; warm, jazzy, and forward-thinking. Chiming bells and schoolyard xylophones intersect with steel drums, handclaps and sine waves, providing an ideal bedrock for Noname’s plainspoken wisdom: “When the sun is going down/and the dark is here to stay/I picture your smile/like it was Yesterday.”

6. Anderson .Paak – Malibu: After building his name the L.A. rap underground and finally breaking through on Dr. Dre’s Compton, Anderson .Paak introduced himself to a rapt national audience in 2016 with countless guest spots and two excellent albums. Anderson .Paak was probably my favorite live act of the year; a charismatic combination of James Brown and Clyde Stubblefield. I saw him in front of a good-sized crowd at a side stage Austin City Limits, leading his crackerjack group of Free Nationals as an energetic frontman and a virtuosic drummer. With Malibu, .Paak proves to be the rare superlative live act to fully translate his talent and energy to the recorded realm. Malibu is a summery slice of Anderson’s Southern California, blending funk, Hip-Hop, and R&B into a signature style, complete with an infectious half-sung/half-rapped delivery and a pro’s sense of songwriting classicism. The cascading chorus on “Heart Don’t Stand a Chance” is one of the soaring musical moments of the year, and Brian Cockerham’s bassline on “Come Down” transforms Hi-Tek’s unlikely sample of the Israeli national anthem into a funk monster. Joyful and endlessly replayable, Malibu is the ideal soundtrack to L.A.’s everlasting summer.

5. David Bowie – Blackstar: It is impossible to discuss Blackstar without mentioning this, so here it goes:

Blackstar is the final album from one of the most original and iconic artists of the past century, a goodbye letter to his fans that he recorded knowing full well that he might not live to see its release.

Bowie littered his lyrics with abstruse references to his impending demise, making an already haunting album even more profound. However, even if Bowie survived the year, the unapologetically strange and experimental Blackstar would rank among his greatest releases. The epic, atonal title track is one of Bowie’s masterstrokes, twisting through effortless tempo and mood shifts, accompanied by terrifying, yet often darkly funny lyrics. Bowie’s pitch black sense of humor also elevates “Lazarus” from maudlin to essential, as Donny McCaslin’s saxophone mournfully accents the artist’s depiction of his final days. Bowie’s final transmission to ground control is “I Can’t Give Everything Away,” a poignant, discordant ballad that illuminates Bowie’s single regret: that he will not be able to gift the world anymore art.

4. Schoolboy Q – Blank Face LP: 2016 was an amazing year for L.A. rap, and while Anderson .Paak, Kendrick, and YG released some of the year’s most exciting music, Schoolboy Q surpassed them all with the epic Blank Face LP. Working with many of the game’s brest producers (The Alchemist, DJ Dahi, Cardo, Tyler, The Creator, etc.) on this expansive, cohesive sound collage, Schoolboy Q snarls his way through 72 near-flawless (sorry “Overtime) minutes of straight gangster shit. Still a master of declarative, rhythmic hooks, Q refines his stream-of-consciousness verses, painting a gritty, and often terrifying, picture of Figueroa Street and South Central with humor, viciousness, and pathos. Blank Face boasts one of the year’s best basslines on the title track, two of the year’s broadest and best guest verses of the year in E-40’s “Dope Dealer” spot and Kanye’s batshit takeover of “THat Part,” and a convincing rap/rock hybrid on opener “TorcH.”

3. KING – We Are King: Bolstered by songwriting brilliance and gorgeous vocal harmonies, Los Angeles trio KING makes velvety, 1800-threadcount R&B. Comprised of sisters Paris and Amber Strother and “musical soulmate” Anita Bias, KING compiled extended mixes for five years worth of singles, plus some stellar original tracks, into We Are King, a powerful introductory statement. Theirs is a special brand of dreamlike soul, with genius-level chord progressions and angelic vocal harmonies, finished with a sumptuous production value. With its gentle groove and inviting lushness, We Are King is the perfect balm to melt away stress at the end of the day (it’s also a pretty decent hangover cure).

2. A Tribe Called Quest – We Got It From Here, Thank You For Your Service: When Phife died in March 2016, it seemed like a particularly cruel way for the story of A Tribe Called Quest to end. Little did we know that Q-Tip, Phife, and Ali Shaheed Muhammad had another trick up their sleeves. The fact that this album is exists--and is this amazing--is a miracle. The key, as always, is the interplay between Q-Tip and Phife. The two genius emcees bounce phrases off one another, finishing each other’s thoughts with witticisms and profound statements of truth. Jarobi White, formerly a glorified hypeman, makes us wonder why he didn’t rhyme on more tracks to begin with. The group dynamic extends to the guests such as Busta Rhymes, Consequence, Kendrick Lamar, and more, who seamlessly join Tip and Phife’s mindmeld for some of the best work of their careers. We Got It From Here… is the apotheosis of Tribe’s career, as the collective shows righteous anger towards racism and authoritarianism (“We The People,” “Conrad Tokyo”), sees hope in the future of music (“Dis Generation”), and, most touchingly, mourns the loss of their brother Phife Dawg (”Lost Somebody”). Despite the shadow of loss that hangs over the album, it’s a remarkably fun, engaging, and thought-provoking listen, and it was my most played album in the aftermath of the election.

1. Pinegrove – Cardinal:

“I’ll be sitting on the outskirts if you wanna talk about it/Things in there are getting so loud”

In a year when nearly every major pop and rap star released an album and some of the greatest artists of all time said goodbye, the album that hit me the hardest was a 30-minute debut by a modest band from my dad’s hometown of Montclair, NJ. The group, led by frontman/songwriter Evan Stephens Hall, mines a homespun blend of 00’s indie rock, emo, and alt-country—a nostalgic, yet novel approach, which when coupled with Hall’s voice creates a frisson that I felt from no other band this year. The eight songs on Cardinal twist and turn, avoiding traditional verse-chorus structure, instead building emotional peaks and valleys around Hall’s stories, dotted with pearls of matter-of-fact wit and wisdom. The centerpiece is “Aphasia,” a jaw-dropping feat of songwriting about the struggle to put feelings into words—it gradually builds up steam until it reaches a brilliant little song-within-a-song (!) and culminates with a cathartic guitar solo. “Aphasia,” and much of the rest of Cardinal, is so casually brilliant that it almost angers me, but hopefully there are many more moments like that in this young band’s future.

THE REST:

21. Kaytranada – 99.9% 22. The Avalanches – Wildflower 23. Terrace Martin – Velvet Portraits 24. BJ The Chicago Kid – In My Mind 25. Big Thief – Masterpiece 26. Ultimate Painting - Dusk 27. Skepta – Konnichiwa 28. Solange – A Seat at the Table 29. School of Seven Bells – SVIIB 30. Kevin Gates – Islah 31. Cass McCombs – Mangy Love 32. Jessy Lanza – Oh No 33. Underworld – Barbara Barbara We Face a Shining Future 34. Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith – Ears 35. Badbadnotgood - IV 36. Sturgill Simpson – A Sailor’s Guide to Earth 37. ANOHNI – Hopelessness 38. Leonard Cohen – You Want It Darker 39. King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – Nonagon Infinity 40. Crying – Beyond The Fleeting Gales 41. Leon Vynehall – Rojus 42. Mitski – Puberty 2 43. Saba – Bucket List Project 44. Joyce Manor – Cody 45. Black Mountain - IV 46. Kornel Kovacs – The Bells 47. Lambchop – FLOTUS 48. Japanese Breakfast – Psychopomp 49. Nao – For All We Know 50. D.R.A.M. – Big Baby D.R.A.M.