My Top 11 Favorite Artists Of All Time

   Something I haven't done in far too long and now I'm able to get at it again, blogging. I've wanted to do this topic for a few weeks, ever since I realized that I automatically knew what my list would be, and the fact that it hasn't changed and probably wouldn't for quite a long time. The following is just a ranked collection of my favorite artists and a quick blurb about why I like them so much. I didn't spend too much time deciding what pictures to accompany the artists. As a matter of fact, most times it was a very random choosing, but hopefully you'll feel inclined to look them up further and explore the tremendous work of these incredibly talented individuals. It might not be the most diverse assortment, but there's no question they're all equally compelling. So, without further adieu, here's my top eleven favorite artists, ever.

#11- TIM BRADSTREET.
       Known a lot for his work with the Punisher, this man is a miracle worker making magically realistic pieces. His work is photo realistic, and I know he has a certain process when going about his business, unlike many others. It's almost too realistic at times, where you feel it couldn't possibly have been done by hand, but it was. He also has a darker, tinted style, where seldom a bright color is used.

#10- H.R. GIGER.
        You probably already know this name, and rightfully so. Probably the most twisted and perverse style from any artist on my list, H.R. Giger weaves a disturbing maze of menacing images. Often times gazing at his art, you feel a similar slithering haunting among them all. He created a lot of the Alien franchise artwork and characters, as well as a microphone for the lead singer of Korn, and various other stuff in our culture. One can only imagine what goes through his mind when conceiving an idea for a piece.

#9- (Tie) JSKA PRIEBE and CUCA REFUGIA. 
      These two wonderful women are geniuses, and I wasn't about to go through the unforgivable task of placing them at different ranks on this list. I adore both of them and their astonishing amount of awe-inspiring pieces. I feel ever so honored and lucky to even be able to talk to them, and if you get the spare moment, I desperately encourage you to further browse their respective websites, www.jskapriebe.com/ and www.cucarefugia.com/. You wont be sorry you did, and they'll probably become your favorites, as well.

#8- MIKE MIGNOLA. 
       He created Hellboy, and has a hellish style all his own. Every artist on this list is supremely unique in which, you see their work and you automatically recognize it as THAT artist, and none might more coincide with that then Mike Mignola. Dark, drenching, stretched, and dismal, his work is masterful, and I love him.

#7- JACK "THE KING" KIRBY.
      Although this is a rare picture somewhat unlike his body of work, if you don't know who this man is, I kind of take offense to it, but seriously. If you're into comic books, this man is practically responsible for your entire life. He created countless characters from the Fantastic Four, to the Silver Surfer, to the X-Men, to Captain America, to the Hulk, etc, etc, etc. I don't even want to get into how much credit he deserves, and never got, but this man is the messiah, and the gifts he's given are eternal.

#6- BILL SIENKIEWICZ.
      This guy's power to create fantastic images seemingly snatched from dreams, is incomparable. Everything he does flows with a smooth preciseness. He often works with painting, but every so often we're gifted with his work in comics, which tend to be my favorite, because they'll always stick out like a sore thumb on the shelves. He is incredible.

#5- SIMON BISLEY.
       Nobody, and I mean nobody, does demons or people writhing in pain better than Simon Bisley. I have two of his art books, and several comic books that he's graced, but he's done a lot of work with band album covers. His most notable might be that with Danzig and Samhain. Dragons, beasts, zombies, vampires, and all other creatures are his playground. With torture displayed in practically everything he does, I couldn't be happier when seeing anything from his vast history of work.

#4- TRAVIS MILLARD.
      I feel like I didn't do justice at all in choosing this man's display picture, but hopefully you'll please look him up. I can say with honesty, that he probably has the most intricate detailing of anyone put on this list. Some of his pieces are almost bragging with how much attention to detail he pays. He doesn't work in comic books, but I sorely wish he did. His art usually has a message or meaning, and you could just simply stare at any of them for hours on end. Look him up and tell me he's not tremendously original.

#3- JEREMY FISH.
       This San Fransiscan big bearded man's work is almost unfathomable. He usually works with an animal or two and a common subject, and then unimaginably distorts them into one bunched together masterpiece. It bends the mind and makes you smile, as to imagine what it means or where it all comes from, but he's stupendously unmatched and there's nobody like him, anywhere, ever. I love how often he sneaks in a smaller detail that you might be amazed to recognize later. I've noticed quite a lot of bigger bands having him do their tour and show posters, and reasonably so.

#2- ALEX PARDEE.
      Stop what you're doing right after you read this and look up the work of this man. His popularity grows every day, and it's only a small matter of time before he's a household name. From music videos, to his own clothing, to album covers, to an early start in comic books, to various other involvements in culture, he is a genius when creating. I was lucky enough to meet him and he was so nice and generous in person, I really hope he gets everything he deserves, which is a whole lot. His creatures are his and only his, and I feel he's almost best when he does a skewer of pop culture and distorts it. I simply can't describe this man well enough.

#1- SAM KIETH.  
      In a way, Alex Pardee was this man's understudy and is also, as he told me, his favorite artist as well. The Maxx, Wolverine, Batman, Venom, Ghost Rider, all characters I feel he draws the best. I love how he dabbles with inks, and pencils, and paints, and every once in a while splashes them all together in a book, and it baffles you. The main reason why he's my favorite is this: Everyone in comics draws women very similarly. They're always skinny, and athletic, but Sam draws them realistically, with belly fat, saggy breasts, big thighs, even armpit hair in some occasions, which is practically unheard of. Everything that he's written and he's created is my favorite and cuts to my heart unlike anybody else. He is a God, and will always be my number one, no matter what.

 Well, there you have it. I hope in the least you get the inkling to look up some new artists you might not be familiar with, and explore their world of wonderful work. Also, I hope you enjoyed reading this, I'm going to try and crank out some more blogs as soon as possible. Thanks for reading, peoples!


.,CAStLE,.

A Closer Look At Three Of My Favorite Assassin Movies

 
    I was originally going to make this really long and drawn out, having a huge list of ten of my favorite assassin movies, but then I realized two things. One: There's not even really that great an amount of movies that are actually about the assassin, and Two: There's only three that I'm thinking of right now that are quality and even show a varying difference between realistic and silver screen fantasy. Also, I found a few outstanding pictures that I want to show, as well. I'll beat myself over the head with a loaf of bread if I realize later I forgot something or left out a great film, granted I'm on very little sleep, preoccupied with a lot of things, and haven't ate in, like, 24 hours. But it all honesty it's just me giving props to three films I love. So, I'm going to make this quick.

    First movie I feel that doesn't get enough credit and is forgotten on a lot of people, is Bridget Fonda's "Point Of No Return". Released in 1993, it was originally titled "The Assassin" (Jeez, how original. Might as well make a movie about a janitor and call it "Janitor") and was basically a re-make of the classic "La Femme Nikita", which if memory serves, was an early television show and movie. They're both similar, even visually, with the story circulating about a female whose life becomes changed when she's forced into mercenary work. I chose the Bridget Fonda version because I use to watch it repeatedly, so often, and I feel like a lot of the scenes are tremendous in portraying the aspects of the lifestyle that would require being shown. There's a tad bit of cheesiness, but not as much as a ton of others I could name. On a side note, where the hell has Bridget Fonda gone by the way? She was great, and now nothing, or am I trippin'? Anyways, you should see this if you haven't or if you are even remotely interested. Great flick.

  Moving on, this next one is on my favorite movies of all time list, I just don't know exactly where I'd put it. With the starring role played perfectly by the great John Cusack, "Grosse Pointe Blank" is a fairly different vision of the would be life of an assassin. Released in 1997, it was easily distinguishable with a great cast and even better screenplay. It's almost a dark comedy, but that doesn't make it any less entertaining or accurate, in my opinion. Such great acting here, and although funny, there's a lot of subjects most assassin flicks haven't touched on, such as psychiatrist visits, out of touch family members, and the growing tiresome of the mercenary trade. The greatest theme imbedded in this movie I would say is that the assassin factor is constantly downplayed and accepted, like it's just an average job. I could watch this repeatedly, and usually don't allow myself to go for too long without seeing it periodically. Not to mention the soundtrack stands alone, and everything is just so suave and slick about it it almost demands repeated viewings. If you haven't watched this gem, I suggest you take the time as soon as possible and enjoy the bullets and banter. A true classic.

  Lastly, I have to give credit to what should not be a surprise to anyone in being the greatest assassin movie of all time in my opinion, Leon: The Professional. A star-studded cast including Jean Reno as the title role, Danny Aiello, Gary Oldman, and a rarely seen newer young actress in Natalie Portman. I'm just now realizing that all three of these films came out in the 90's, with this one having been released in 1994. I didn't mean for that to happen and it's slightly odd. Were the 90's the best period for believable assassin flicks? Most likely I don't need to say much at all about this film. It is simply outstanding and to say it's a cult classic is kind of an understatement. Gary Oldman kills in this, both figuratively and literally, and is so hypnotizing he almost steals the show. I need not describe the beauty in the attention to detail with Leon's tactics, rules, and the surrounding environment because it's practically air-apparent. Whether it's the final showdown with the feds closing in on the building, or the teaching of Matilda, every scene is done with such impressive finesse it's mesmerizing. If you don't love this film, I haven't the slightest idea what to tell you. Despite the main plot being Matilda, I'd say this movie still perfectly defines the assassin's creed and lifestyle, and brings you into the world all so easily. A go to for anyone interested in what an assassin movie should be like.

   On a side note, I have a verse in one of my songs with my group, CutThroat Cadavers, called "Combat Language", where I reference all three of these films. A little secret that not too many people know about, or would ever realize.

  I don't know really what compelled me to write this blog, it's kind of odd to me. But it was interesting doing it, and I hope it's agreeable or in the very least, makes you want to watch these films. I think I'll just like looking back and knowing I did it, for whatever idiotic reason. I'm always extremely greatful for anyone reading my stuff. Thanks and much respect to you! Until next time, friends.

  "This business is bliss, literally hit or miss. My only occupation's obligation: No women, no kids. At close range, my Grosse Pointe Blank destroys blame. Avid stick to the script, and always avoid names. My armament with cartridges in artisan, that's part of it. My soul's as cold as the arctic mist when the target's hit." - Me.

Frank Castle's Art Of War: Punisher's Best Battles (Link)

  Here's the link for the new blog I just finished for Punisher Central. 'Twas fun writing it. Check it out if you have the time. It's great site, with really kick-ass people. Thanks a grip.

 http://punishercentral.blogspot.com/2012/02/frank-castles-art-of-war-punishers-top.html

"Pros, Cons, and the History of The Punisher in Film."

  Aren't movies grand? I mean, who doesn't enjoy a good film now and then? The cinematic silver screen affords us a gateway to escaping from our own realities where we can become immersed in an entertaining story. Some are better than others, and some are just down right laughably bad. Lately, there's been a surge in Hollywood for more and more movies based on comic books, and they're becoming increasingly successful and popular. It's almost getting to where the average Joe will think themselves an expert on Iron Man, just because they've seen the few films with Robert Downey Jr. Personally, I've never seen a Harry Potter film, but I wouldn't exactly consider myself knowledgeable in that realm if I was to see a few of them.

  Skip ahead to the Punisher universe where to date there's been three motion pictures released about him. Such an entertaining entity with endless ways of telling his stories. What follows is just an overview of the good, the bad, and the ugly of Mr. Francis Castiglione, Frank Castle, in film.

  Starting off what seems like centuries ago, in 1989 Artisan Entertainment released the first Punisher movie starring Dolph Lundgren. I've actually read on websites, and seen comments scattered about, claiming this was the best Punisher film, and that Dolph Lundgren was the best to portray the Punisher. It's statements like these that have me shaking my head.

 
 Actually, I'd consider the opposite true. This is in my humble opinion, the worst of the series. The acting was real bad, like, terrible soap opera bad. The script wasn't really impressive by any standards, and the whole film lacked excitement. Also, all the guns fired had that 80's cap gun pop, and there were so many elements and important traits from the comic that they forgot, or just left out. He never even sports the classic white skull on his chest, how do you not do that? That's like Batman movie without him ever wearing his costume! I could go on and on about things I disliked about this film, and there's a reason why I watched this very little. Maybe I should focus on some of the good factors going for this one. There were some good scenes, and Dolph does have a fighting background and is big enough to pull off a muscular-like Punisher. One of the best scenes in the movie, I don't remember if it was deleted or not, showcases Punisher's knife which has the famous skull on it. Here's a quick clip of one of the better scenes, in an otherwise kind of boring portrayal:

  It's worth owning, and I think the main thing is that people forget how the movie actually was, and remember it to be more impressive than it was. At least they made this film, because it laid the groundwork for the next ones. Having said that, let's move on to the next one in succession, which happens to be my favorite of the series.

 The Punisher starring Thomas Jane was released in 2004, with intermediate success. This one is far and away my personal favorite because it's the only one to have scenes in the movie directly taken from a particular comic. Plus, there's so many impressive scenes. Whether it's the dramatic and captivating scene where his ENTIRE FAMILY is killed on the pier, or him fighting the Russian or battling a foe, there was too much I enjoyed here. Yeah, I know there were some glaring errors. I really wish they wouldn't have included John Travolta, as he was given too much screen time and emphasis, and I don't like how Punisher just finds the skull shirt in the water, but most of what else I could disapprove of is nitpicking. Thomas Jane is the best actor of all three to play the Punisher, and that's not really that arguable when you look at all his acclaim from his award nominations and the diversity of his roles. I don't, however, think he was the best Punisher, just the best Frank Castle, if that makes sense. My favorite scene in this movie is where he's on the ground about to be shot, and he fires the knife mechanism, stabbing his would-be assassin, Harry Heck, which is scene for scene from the Garth Ennis comic.

  This was the short version, the longer one with the quick car chase wouldn't upload for some reason. Anyways, great film, and very little I didn't like. Even though I could of done without Rebecca Romijn's version of the character she played from the comic, and the final scene with a skull formed from cars on fire was a bit over the top, they were small stumbles in an enjoyable film.

  Lastly, there was Punisher: War Zone, with Ray Stevenson in 2008. There was a lot of good, and some bad with this take, I felt. I'd like to give credit to the fact that they included Jigsaw, one of Punisher's antagonists, and the amount of actual bloodshed depicted in this film. Although the actor that played Jigsaw, Dominic West, was atrocious and I disliked him, it was still cool that his character was involved. While none of the three films have been gory enough for my expectations, this one was probably the bloodiest, which is a huge plus. I felt that Ray Stevenson had the most believable portrayal of the actual Punisher, but wasn't a good Frank Castle. My biggest gripe would also be that a majority of the film was just too cheesy. However, I loved that this was the first one to include one of Punisher's only friends, Micro. I feel maybe my expectations were just too high for so long hearing about this flick forthcoming, so I was a bit let down. Still, it's a great imagining, and has some very good redeeming qualities.  

   In summation, I feel as though none of the films have got it perfect, or hit most details right on the head; The perfect amount of gore/darkness, with the perfect amount of great acting/story development. Which is good for us, because that will hopefully guarantee more films in the future. I feel as though it's inevitable with such a great character as the Punisher. Imagine the possibilities.
   Looks like that about sums it up, I guess. Damn, now I want to watch them all back to back, realizing I've never done that. Epic fail for a huge Punisher fan. I mean, my rap moniker is CAStLE for crying out loud. Whoops! I thank you for reading this garble, as I love and immensely enjoy writing and putting it all together. Let me know of any disagreements you have, or errors I might have made. Until next time, peoples!

"Five Legitimate Reasons Why PUNISHER Is Better Than BATMAN"

  First and foremost, I'm just going to speak my mind right now and give you references and opinions, which you may or may not agree with. The explanation is here, and if you have any gripes with it, you can take it up with me personally, or not. I'll still continue to believe in this until the day I'm proven wrong, or lose interest. So here's five quick reasons why the Punisher is better, at least in my eyes, than the Batman.

#1 - HIS REALITY:

  Nobody ever acknowledges how bitter and beautiful the Punisher's reality is. Frank Castle goes into every war, every battle, every endeavour WANTING TO DIE. The irony is that that mindstate gives him the fearlessness and the fortitude, providing him with the tenacity and bravery that's needed to accomplish the majority of his missions.

Do you understand that? He wants to die; he hasn't cared about living since his family was taken from him and his life ended. The fact that he still exists is a disappointment, and justice for criminals is a meager occupation of his time.

#2 - HE'S NOT A RICH BOY.

  He wasn't born into riches like Bruce Wayne. He doesn't have every expense at his fingertips and technology and funding isn't at his disposal. Whatever Frank Castle accumulates, he gets from his own worthless skirmishes. He's sustains on his own accord.

#3 - HE DOESN'T HAVE SOCIETY, AND SEVERAL FRIENDS.HELPING HIM.

  Batman has a countless amount of adversaries, from Comissioner Gordon, to the Oracle, to Alfred, to the whole God damn Justice League. Punisher relies on information he hears second hand from the police force, and untrustworthy criminals and miscreants. He gets his hands dirty in the streets, not gathering information in a million dollar fortified fortress, like Batman. The only help Punisher ever accumulates is from his sometimes helper Micro, and forcing information out of other wimpy superheros and villains. Nobody wants to help him, or volunteers their help, as opposed to the caped crusader. He is alone, and will always be alone. He doesn't require help, nor does he need it.

#4 - HE HAS VERY LITTLE EMOTION.

  Several times Bruce Wayne will have to make a life or death decision, or have to rescue a family, or save the day; Punisher is realistic and sticks to his own. He views the world as scum; a disgusting, primordial soup of criminals and undesirables, and also believes the majority of humanity is inherently evil and untrustworthy. This realistic view grants him less disappointments and mistakes. 

(Sidenote: All this while being just as good a detective and mastermind as Batman.)

#5 - HE HAS ABSOLUTLEY NO PROBLEM WITH KILLING SOMEONE.

  This might be one of the most important. Where as Batman seemingly always has to deal with the Joker or his regular villians, because his only option is to put them in the Arkham Asylum, or jail, Punisher, when given any opportunity, will execute any foe, on the spot. Bruce Wayne doesn't believe in killing, or the use of guns. Mr. Frank Castle does, and to say that he's technically advanced in every imaginable weapon, is an understatement. Hence the title, "The Punisher." If you're guilty, your punishment will suffice. If you're guilty, and run into Batman, well, you'll be behind bars.

Anyways, this is just something I felt like posting while I had a spare few minutes. Plus, I never update this damn Blogspot, which is wack. I should do more of these. Moreover, I probably left some stuff out. Oh well..

Thanks to anyone who read.

"Killing is my business, and business is good." - Punisher

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- Top 11 Albums Of 2011 (Finally!) -

  Greetings.. Immersed in uncertainty and confronted with problem after problem, I feel like it's took literally forever for me to get back on track and finally complete this. So with that, thank you, anyone who might be reading, for your patience and time. Before I get knee-deep into this pointlessness, I wanted to take a moment to address something on the topic of blogs like this that I've been noticing that's been really irking me.

   I do a best of the year blog for music every year, usually on my tumblr, mostly because it's like a tradition and I find it fun. I'm going to be discussing with most of the people I know about what our favorite music was at the end of the year anyways, so why not take some time and make it a little more involved and official? Anyways, I've been witnessing a plethora of HATE for people who make blogs, and more in particular, these best of lists. A lot of artists and the like get furious and insulted for insert whatever reason, and feel the need to validate their stance by stating how insignificant these blogs are. Let me tell you something, if there's something I'm fully aware of with my blogs, it's their insignificance. Who cares what I write or think? Who cares what anyone thinks about anything, for that matter? I must be odd, because I'm the type of fool that stops and reads most of these, because I find anyone's opinion interesting, even if I completely disagree with it. If a person put that much effort and time into creating something they themselves cared about, the least I'm going to do is skim through it. Moreover, I feel the several insults I see hurled over the internets towards these bloggers just showcases to others that it's silly to put effort and thought into a project if no one's going to care about it. At the end of the day no one's going to care about this, and I don't care about that. In the very least, I did something constructive and have a cool little piece for reference. In the words of the unwavering Forrest Gump, "And that's all I have to say about that." On to the next.

#11 - BLUEPRINT - "Adventures In Counter Culture"

  One of the strongest and most consistent lyricists on the Rhymesayers record label, this Columbus Ohio native really outdid himself with this, his sophomore release. The biggest credit I immediately gave this album upon listening to it was it's soulful diversity. It retains so much variety while still connecting emotionally. Songs like "So Alive", and "Keep Bouncing" are a great example of that. Just really good quality Hip Hop with positivity and tones you might not expect.

 #10 - JAY-Z and KANYE WEST - "Watch The Throne"

 Yeah, I know what you might be thinking. And while this album had enough good material on it to solidify it's mark on most people's end of the year lists, I couldn't shake the fact that I felt it should've been better. These practically omnipotent industry heavyweights have the musical world at their disposal, and so I hold them to a higher standard as I'm prone to do, but the reality was that in my opinion some of these songs were lacking. Don't get me wrong, "No Church In The Wild", "Welcome To The Jungle", "Why I Love You"(Favorite), and "Niggas In Paris" are practically undeniable. For the most part the production is stellar. The biggest statement I find myself saying in regards to this is that I was not surprised or swept off my feet by either of their lyrics. I find their wordplay suitable, but satisfactory. It's all good, this is just me, and this one will be all over for a reason.

# 9 - RADIOHEAD - "King Of Limbs"

   God, I love Radiohead, and always will. Although there was some disappointment at first with King Of Limbs for me, I quickly came to the realization that I was being hasty, and this is a slower, but outstanding release. This is a perfect album to put on to pollinate a peaceful aura into your surrounding atmosphere. Plus in hindsight, the elements of this record being as it is will just make it more recognizable placed in their wonderful, expansive discography.

# 8 - SLOW DANCE - "Risk It All"

  I was lucky enough to share a bill with these two Seattle based mad men at an MC Type show months back, and to say I was completely floored by their music and performance, is a grave understatement. Their energy was ferocious and remarkable, and the music was incredibly infectious. Months later, I was ecstatic when out of nowhere I discovered this release and quickly realized this was them. It feels like this release perfectly embodies a party hard, no nonsense, excess-filled, fuck you lifestyle. I implore you, give this a spin, and tell me you're not feeling it. And if you do listen and somehow don't feel it, you must be dead, and I only have two words in response for you: Don't care!

# 7 - MASTODON - "The Hunter"

  It's practically unfair, and I must be biased somehow. Because I promise if this band drops a CD in any year, I can almost guarantee that CD landing on my end of the year list. That's how good they are, and that's how good this is. Sure, it's not as good as last year's "Crack The Sky", but almost nothing is going to be. These four soldiers personify rough and rugged relentlessness, and power and speed unmatched in metal. Yeah, I just said that, and I mean it. Who else puts as much thought and story into their records and has songs upwards of eight or nine minutes that still take you on a terrifying, enjoyable journey? The mighty Mastodon, that's who.

# 6 - WATSKY - "A New Kind Of Sexy" (Mixtape)

  Am I allowed to put a mix-tape on a best albums of the year list? Well, I wouldn't care if I wasn't, because this would be going on it regardless. If you follow me on twitter, you'd know I've been amazed by all that I've witnessed from this pale, thin San Fransiscan since the beginning of the year. His wordplay is undeniable, his delivery is on point, his topics are funny and original, and his overall music is enjoyable. I feel like a lot of people aren't messing with him though because of his appearance, and content. However, it matters not, look up on youtube, start watching videos, and boom, I'd bet even the most hardened, opinionated gangster would be hooked. It should say something when I mention this but couldn't find it in me to include WAX or DUMBFOUNDED's releases on this list. Watsky is the truth, my friend.

# 5 - PUSCIFER - "Conditions Of My Parole"

  This was by far my favorite rock-related release in 2011. Maynard is a God, and this album differentiated from their norm with less humor and whimsicality, and more focused seriousness. Instrumentally, it shines, and the lyrics seem to christen it with an audacious authority. "Man Overboard" thrives, even live, and might be my favorite song of the whole God damn year, motherfucker. Thank you, Maynard. I'll be seeing you in a week or so with Tool, but still remembering everything you did with Puscifer live, a few weeks back.

# 4 - OPEN MIKE EAGLE - "Rappers Will Die Of Natural Causes"

   Good Lord, this is a great man, and thorough. Although I consider him a friend, even if I hated him as an enemy I couldn't deny this man's spirit, intelligence, and heart, all of which is displayed in the most lively of methods with this record. Real Hip Hop heads will already know about this, but to those not familiar, I would suggest you get that. The thinking man's thinking rapper? Not much need be said, this album speaks for itself in volumes, and this man deserves any and all acclaim he will receive.

# 3 - NOAH 23 - "Fry Cook On Venus"

  From easily my decided best label in the entire music industry, FAKE FOUR, comes it's best work of 2011. Wow, reading that almost sounds dangerous and hasty, but listening to this masterpiece just reaffirms it for me. I'll be saying a lot more about this emcee a little bit further down, but for right now I need to state how great this record is. A whirling dervish of differently displayed styles and prominent tracks, when I first heard this I swore it was going to be my favorite album of the year, and it came out early. I could listen to this over and over and enjoy it just as much as the last. It's inspiring how infectious all these tremendous songs are. Pick a track at random and start bangin' your head. Best of all, it's originality. Nothing sounds like this, or will. So much respect for this release.

#2 - HAIL MARY MALLON - "Are You Gonna Eat That"

    "Are You Gonna Eat That" might have been the CD of the year for me if number one hadn't forged through triumphant by existing. The most commendable factor of this record is how short and fun it is, just always leaves the listener wanting more. Mr.Aesop Rock, Rob Sonic, and DJ Big Wiz form a triumvirate of tenaciously talented individuals. So many music videos from equally enjoyable songs, this is groove-inducing, unflinching hip hop at it's best. Also, it needs to be said how spectacularly they work together. This one is for the books.  

#1 - FLASH BANG GRENADA - "10 Haters"

   The very second I caught wind of this, it was over. It started when I was lucky enough to hear "Beat My Bitch", a play on words as to what these monoliths are doing with the superb beat they destroy. GOOD GOD. After that, came stupendous song after song until I was finally able to cop and hear the whole album (Shout out to my homey Garrett in PA!). No one in rap spit lyrics better than whats on this, do you hear me? The fact that they switch places with such effortless fervor and make the difficult patterns seem like a walk in the park, is simply too much. I'll admit, I wasn't even too familiar with Nocando when I heard this. I had heard a few songs here and there, but the power this record unleashed made me get acquainted immediately. Thankfully I'm now familiar, but that's a testament to this masterpiece. My record of 2011 was this, saying that, I know for me it feels right. Thank you Busdriver and thank you Nocando for this glorious assault. 


 - Honorable Mention -

DAVID LYNCH - "Crazy Clown Time"

  This is a sordid, peculiar, random album, but I knew I'd enjoy it. I love David Lynch, and although perhaps he should stick with movies, a lot of these songs are dark, freaky, and unapologetic enough for me to love them. This will not be mentioned on anyone's best of list, I'd assume, haha. If you have a moment, watch the music videos, they're equally as frightening, and nightmare inducing, while still retaining cinematic beauty. Most people won't like this, but I can enjoy it, just as much as I can enjoy a cheesy horror film, or a campy Kung Fu flick. Be warned!


- Biggest Disappointment -

 BJORK - "Biophilia"

     Bjork is one of my favorite entities in the entire universe of music. Which is why I tried listen after grueling listen to this, hoping my original feelings were misplaced or irrational. As a matter of fact, I believe never have I listened to an album so much in an attempt to persuade myself into liking it. This is a scattered, indecipherable, unfocused mess to me. I usually love her piercing, melodic voice, but here it seems humdrum and subdued, coupled with backing music that I just kept waiting to form some organization and reliability. It's all over the place, but not in a good way.. I tried so hard, but maybe this is just not for me.

Last but not least............

   - Best Rapper Of 2011 -

   NOAH 23

   Even if his record "Fry Cook On Venus" hadn't been on my list, he still would have made this category by a landslide. This self-proclaimed Canadian based god's output and chameleon like talent solidified his mark as an inspiration to me, and I'm sure several other lyricists everywhere. Albeit slightly bittersweet with him announcing a retirement, which is an awakening realization about the industry for people like myself, you still can choose between a vast amount of work he displayed throughout this year, all of which had redeeming qualities and likability, while still being singularly exciting. Take for instance his "Occult Trill Witch-tapes", or the "Gimmie Indie Rock" release. This man is a master of styles and showcases unpredictability with very little needed effort. Heads should take notice if they haven't. A lot of this stuff is quite astounding.

   Well, I'm done. Literally.. I'm going to go take a shower and wash all these dirty words off and go get drunk. That was fun for me, I hope it was fun, or in the very least, a slight diversion for y'all. Thank you very much to any homosapien or animal that might have read this blog, or any blog that I do. I want to hug you all with Italian breadsticks in my pants.... Pause!?!!

Much love,

.,CAStLE,.