Everyone's A Critic Including CAStLE: 1 of 3 in 2013.

     Greetings, fellow music maniacs.   After half a year or so I find myself begrudgingly going back to blogging and this time I'm blaming the music I've been listening to as being the catalyst. I figured if I wrote a new EACIC now I might as well round it up to three by the end of the year, because as we all know death comes in threes and reading my blogs can surely result in being bored to death. Therefore -- for any zombies that might be somehow reading this -- here's eleven new musical releases I've been listening to, and what I've felt about them...

 

 Black Sabbath - "13"

   For any metal fan Black Sabbath is surely something to behold. Their history and legacy in music is unquestionable, and they'll forever remain one of the most important bands who'll continue to inspire generations well after a lot of us are gone. But how would Ozzy and company fare with their first studio album together since 1978's Never Say Die? Well, for me the result was a mixed bag. First and foremost it's important to state how awesome it is hearing Ozzy with them again, and they surely haven't swayed too far from their original formula. I suspect master producer Rick Rubin was the main factor in making sure Sabbath sounded like how Sabbath should sound. My main gripe being that because of that, the creativity might have been muted a bit. Don't get me wrong, this record is great; dark and dreary, with lengthy odes of a holy morbid nature and if you didn't know better you might assume that these are still youthful young men in their twenties. But after a few listens it just got a bit humdrum and routine for me. I feel everyone should own this -- if not out of pure respect -- but ultimately it's not going to be emitting from my headphones or speakers as much as a record almost thirteen years in the making should've been. 

7.8/10

Ghostface Killah - "Twelve Reasons To Die"

     What's that? Tony Starks dons the mask yet again and has gone back to the grittier nature we all love to hear from the Wu? Yeah, this album was a blessing for me before I'd even listened to it. I'm a Wu-head until my days end, and I'll be the first in line every time there's a new release or show from any of the gods.

The production, lyrical content, length, imagery of this record -- everything for me was a welcomed triumph and what I crave when I listen to hip hop: No flashy, simplistic swag, just lyrical death in a booth with 70's kung fu and bloody horror film undertones (in particular in this case is an homage to Argento films). Thank you, Ghost. You've made yet another gem to add to your already intimidating collection.

8.9/10

Yeah Yeah Yeahs - "Mosquito"

    Some bands are hit-and-miss, but the Yeah Yeah Yeahs always hit it out of the park. Even if you didn't consider the wild-spirited Karen O one of the best lead female vocalists (which you should), you have to respect her unique style and voice and this band's essence in rock. It took me awhile to get around to it, but once I finally did Mosquito was just what I expected it would be: Another quality release from an already astonishing band. They might be an acquired taste to some, but I feel this release has something for everyone. A collection of furious surging melodies, slower more emotional odes, and uncommon rhythms, all fronted by Karen's vocals stabbing through the musical fabric like the swooping talons of a hawk to comprise this magnificent work which is Mosquito.

8.7/10

Device - "Device"

    Device is the side project of the lead singer of Disturbed, David Draiman, and since it was streaming for free I figured I'd give it a listen. I used to hate Disturbed so much but then two things happened many years ago: I stopped listening to the radio, and I saw them live. They put on an eventfully damn good show, and I started to appreciate his vocals more after seeing them live because his grunts and animal shrieks aren't necessarily easy to execute. I don't know why they didn't just make a Disturbed record, however, because to be blunt that's basically what this is, sans the guitar solos and harder tempos. It's not bad. In fact, some of these tracks are pretty enjoyable. The Ozzy/Lita Ford cover was awfully interesting, and the M. Shadows appearance was kind of cool, albeit brief. I still don't see the reason for this record, but there wasn't much for me to dislike and pick apart besides a few minor qualms. If you like Draiman or Disturbed you'll probably enjoy this.

7.6/10

Megadeth - "Super Collider"

    I'll start with this: I've seen Megadeth more times than I can count on two hands, and they'll probably always remain my second favorite band. Lately -- and I'll gladly not beat around the bush in saying so -- their material has blown. The last two records by 'Deth were easily dismissible and sucked. I don't know whether Mustaine is unmotivated, or if he feels that the meandering, mellower work he's manufacturing is actually better than their older efforts. In my humble opinion, it's a case of 'Deth's older work being more riddled with angst and spitefully focused, rather than lately going for a more radio-friendly rocker approach. Having stated that, Super Collider is better than their last two efforts. But that's not really saying a whole bunch, is it? It's alright but forgetful, and the sad truth is it'll go in my collection but I'm not going to play it much. What Metallica did with Death Magnetic Megadeth needs to do soon. Or perhaps don't, and I'll just shrug and continue listening to Countdown, Cryptic, Rust and The World Needs A Hero.

6.9/10

     

 

    Depeche Mode - "Delta Machine"

      I love Depeche Mode, and I'm baffled if you say you don't. I don't care what you think of my saying so, but this group has way too many infectious classics, and the album Violator alone has some of the hardest drum breaks and is widely considered a masterpiece. On my first listen, Delta Machine underperformed and I was left a bit unimpressed -- even with the few singles and songs I did highly enjoy. Maybe my hopes were too high and I was too enthusiastic. But then I realized -- like an idiot smacked his face into a brick wall -- that my speakers weren't working correctly and there was a problem with my bass. Needless to say, once it was fixed I was pleased and totally appreciated the album. Dave Gahan still holds a note wonderfully, and I could give this a spin any time. Fans of Depeche should not be disappointed. I only wish their live show hadn't sold out so quickly, so that I might've finally heard some of it in the flesh. Listen to "Welcome To My World" and "Heaven" and tell me it's not astonishing...

8.6/10

    Stone Sour - "House of Gold and Bones: Part 1 & 2"

   This allows me an opportunity to do something I'd not yet done in these record reviews that I've been bumbling with for a few years now; I'm going to give my thoughts on two records at once, and what better instance than with a two-part concept album? I adore Corey Taylor, but more so because of the Slipknot than the Stone Sour, but both are bad-ass. These two pieces are different in that one I enjoyed greatly, and the other not so much. HOGAB part one is alright, but a majority of the songs didn't connect much with me, for whatever reason. Maybe it just felt lazy. On the other hand, however, part two begins beautifully and never lets up, save for a country-type track and another selection I wasn't terribly fond of. It really finishes hard (that's what she said) and Corey showcases a good range and the riffs are radical. It's kind of perplexing realizing that they were both conceived together, yet one I'm ultimately indifferent about and the other I adore. Also worth mentioning is the fantastic and original idea for the packaging of both albums, in which that they both join to form an actual, physical miniature house with the CDs and booklets. Perhaps the point being with these is that you can't have the good without the bad? Hmm.

Part 1- 7.0/10

Part 2- 8.7/10

      Ill Bill - "The Grimy Awards"

    A Brooklyn emcee immersed in the drug-addled gutters of New York with a penchant for death metal, chaos and classic hip hop; Ill Bill is incredible. Any lyricist who can compose an entire song showcasing the history of Slayer is special and should be admired. This man doesn't make bad music. Whether it's working with Jedi Mind Trick's Vinnie Paz, or penning a piece about the Unibomber and Bad Brains, this Nonfiction soldier is nothing if not brutal. I only wish more people would take notice of quality hip hop like this, instead of fawning over mindless acts like whatever's playing on your radio and MTV. Search any video by this La Coka Nostra frontman and instantly become a fan. The Grimy Awards is more of what you want from Bill and it's beautiful: Ridiculous lines of lyrics layered over punching production. I only wish I would've told Bill how much of an influence he is when I met him.

8.3/10

      Killswitch Engage - "Disarm The Descent"

    Reaching towards the homestretch and nearing the finish line, my second to last review is an album that completely surprised me and had me convinced that it might be the best of the year. Well, it was certainly the best I'd heard in 2013 for a good while. Of course I'm talking about the pictured above Disarm The Descent. I've liked Killswitch since I first heard them, but this return to their original lead singer had me floored. I said god damn this is outstanding! This is basically the epitome of what I want in metal: Furiously fast shredding, well thought-out lyrics expressed through a mixture of sonic screaming and soothing singing, and tempo changes that keep it interesting and fresh. My very very tiny gripe is that the guitar display is so mesmerizing I could've easily gone with more solo work, but this album has already been in my constant rotation and shall continue to stay there. Consider me blindsided, but this release made seeing these fellows in a few days even more exciting. I usually wake up on work days and play this. You should, too.

9.2/10

Queens of the Stone Age - "Like Clockwork"

   If you know me, you know this is one of my favorite bands. Hell, Lullabies To Paralyze has been my sixth favorite record of all-time ever since its release. Josh Homme is near rock-god status and there's simply no other band that sounds like Queens or has that hard voodoo blues feel that they've cultivated. One thing I need to say about Like Clockwork: It really starts on the third track. The first two songs are great and lower your guard and then blam. A piano accompanies some of the most remarkably candid and relatable lyrics I've heard over a Queens record. From then on, it's a marathon of remarkable melodies that only Queens can do. I don't care what you listen to, I sincerely urge you to check this out and tell me I'm a moron for enjoying it so much. On first listen I knew it'd easily dethroned the above Killswitch and instantly became my favorite piece of music this year. I can't help but consider Like Clockwork remarkable, and I hope you do, too.

9.5/10

      To be honest, I don't see anyone -- not even Kanye West, or should I say Yeezus now -- knocking this record from atop its throne of my favorites of 2013. Wait... Aren't Nine Inch Nails releasing an album later this year? Damn. Perhaps I speak too soon. We shall see. For anyone who might've read this, I hope you at least slightly enjoyed my meaningless words and opinions and please feel free to shoot me some suggestions for listening pleasure any time. And if you care to tell me how ridiculously wrong and imbecilic I am, that's fine and dandy, too.

   Until the next eleven in a future EACIC, I thank you for reading and take care of yourselves.

~ CAStLE 💀

   

-- CAStLE's Best Of 2012 --

  Greetings, earthlings...

    Well, I'll be damned if this doesn't seem like an unfamiliar activity, seeing as it's been what feels like ages since I last attempted a blog. I do hope you'll be kind enough to bare with me.

    I've completed a best-of-the-year list for music the past four or five years or so, solely for the simple reason that I love music and doing what I can to possibly give a little appreciation to artists and releases that I feel deserve some acclaim, albeit very miniscule coming from me. It's usual fare for me to begin my blogs by firing off a lengthy description of the topic, but I'm gravely ill at the moment and would rather crawl into a garbage can and die. Simply put: I liked these albums a lot this year and you might enjoy them, too. It definitely felt like somewhat of a weak year for rock releases, and a stronger year for Hip Hop, so my list reflects that. Alright, here goes...


   #11 -- BROTHER ALI - "Mourning In America Dreaming In Color"

     The bodacious Brother Ali is someone you kind of just have to respect and admire, regardless of your personal preferences in music. He's always had a vigor present in his voice and style that just demands attention. I might be going out on a limb here, but I felt that this might be his most personal release to date. The beats are quality, and his flow with the various serious subject matters is proud and unrelenting. I have to say: This actually might be my favorite album he's put out yet. This man is the truth, and he certainly wasn't messing around with this one.

#10 -- DEFTONES - "Koi No Yokan"

      This particular release somewhat shocked me. Although I've enjoyed Deftones for quite some time, their past few records have been awfully hit-and-miss for me. That's not the case with "Koi No Yokan" here. Some enthralling, encompassing songs blasted at you with a fury, all the while showcasing a delicate tonal landscape. Fans of the band should have very little problem diving into this record. I will admit, however, that the majority of the tracks on this didn't come across as well live; I've seen them live twice, the second time being very recently for the promotion of this album. Chino's voice really does couple with the instrumentation they've grown into awfully well.







#9 -- OPEN MIKE EAGLE - "4NML HSPTL"

       I personally love this polite professor who's perfected a style packed with profundity and panache. If/when he drops an album in any particular year, it's almost a certain guarantee to make my best of list. He's basically one of the funnest and most pleasant humans I've ever came across, and his refreshing music just urges you to join his team. He followed up his last lavish masterpiece, "Rappers Will Die of Natural Causes", with this "4NML HSPTL", which features backing production by Awkward. There's a slight few tracks I couldn't care for as much as I wanted to, but overall it's another quality release with some damn fine gems to add to his ever-impressive arsenal. Find out more about this marvelous man at his website: www.mikeeagle.net. You'll truly be the better for it.

#8 -- BUSDRIVER - "Beau$&Eros"

     And another one... Some people might have slightly forgotten this exceptional disc towards the end of the year, only because it was released so early within it. Busdriver has an insane style, and with the numerous amount of tremendous tracks on this, it instantly floored me. I thoroughly enjoy the way he came through with everything on this release. My personal favorite song herein is "Ass To Mouth", and not just because of the somewhat vulgar title. He balances his singing and beautiful production accompaniment with a devastating lyrical delivery, and if you've not heard this piece, I sincerely suggest you give it a whirl.







#7 -- NAS - "Life is Good"

    It should only be common knowledge that Nas is a dominant god of Hip Hop. My only mistake with this new record of his was waiting so long to hear it. I have no idea why I was so lazy and dismissive; The Queens Bridge native has always been one of my favorites, and I celebrate his every single release. This album has three songs where he flexes his lyrical ferocity that are worth the price of admission alone, so to speak: "Nasty", "Locomotive" and "No Introduction". My only major gripe is that there was an awful lot of sentimental, softer fare, but that's only to be expected with the album's point and his maturity, I'd assume.


#6 -- KILLER MIKE - "R.A.P. Music"

     The production of EL-P coupled with the rough lyricism of Killer Mike? You already knew this was going to be a power punch from the jump. This record is on a majority of lists that I've noticed, and for obvious reasons: It's terrific in its simplicity, and the two of them make an awesome team. Thorough fans of Hip Hop have already heard this and most likely already enjoyed the hell out of it. Period.


#5 -- ECID - "Werewolf Hologram"

     Ecid is a genius in his own right, and he never fails to impress his fans with the quality he frequently releases. Instead of me blabbering on about his talents, in this instance I felt it'd just be more sufficient to add a link to one of his songs from this album; a song I humbly consider one of the greatest he's ever created. Here's "Back From Japan": http://youtu.be/pAZt2a2MwDI . I implore you to hear this record if you have yet to. You'd be doing yourself a great favor.

#4 -- IN THIS MOMENT - "Blood"

     My first listen to this CD was off-putting and awkward. I didn't like what I'd heard, even though I've been a very big fan of this band for many years. It seemed too fierce and abrasive, and more hateful than all their other work. It was with another listen that I later found out I was very wrong, and I didn't hear it out for what it was. The album does start out bitter and resentful, but it quickly becomes evident that every track is stupendous and works well in a succession. Maria Brink's voice is angelic as always, and the masterful metal she's backed by quickly envelop you until the album reaches an apex with the final track, "11:11". This album was a savior of sorts for rock this year, in my book.


 #3 -- AND YOU WILL KNOW US BY THE TRAIL OF DEAD - "Lost Songs"

      Holy hell, I adore this band! I wish more people were familiar with them. They have an incredibly extensive library of releases and the manner in which they perform, and go about creating and piecing together their albums, is truly unlike any other band's methods. They break their instruments every time they perform all the while alternating instruments to different members of the group; They record conceptual albums with a similar notation throughout them, with tracks that lead directly into the next; And they are one of, if not the best band I've heard to immediately change from a peaceful to a hellishly boisterous melody and still keep you drawn in. I had to somewhat scour high and low just to get a listen to "Lost Songs", but I'm glad I was triumphant in the end. Three tracks into it and I knew it would be somewhere on my top five of the year.

#2 -- YAKBALLZ - "Gas Galaxy"

I'm just going to make this statement and you can disagree with it however much you like -- "Gas Galaxy" by New York's Yak Ballz and Chapter7 has the best production of anything that came out this year, easily. If I start this brilliant album, I cant stop it until it's finished. The way Yak released these tracks on a periodic basis was awesome and kept me salivating, not to mention I honestly love the feel and intergalactic flow of this whole damn record. Here's a link to Yak's website with a free download for "Gas Galaxy": http://www.yakballz.net/2012/08/gas-galaxy-lp-free-download/ . I honestly hope you enjoy it as much as it amazed me.


  #1 -- EL-P - "Cancer4Cure"

     This isn't the slightest bit surprising to anyone that knows me. It's air-apparent what my number one would be, and it's obviously EL-P's "Cancer4Cure". I don't feel the need to justify why I love this man or this album so much. He is my God, and every song on this masterpiece if unlike anything that's came out in I don't know how long. This is a work of art, and every single song is far, far more important than a beat and some lyrics. This record is just ridiculous. I probably turn some people off by how much I enjoy him, but is it really my fault if every bit of music I hear on this stuns me? Anyhow, there you have it.



BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT (musically) -- KENDRICK LAMAR - "Good Kid, m.A.A.d. City"

   I know I was supposed to love this CD like everyone else, but I listened to it three times and I just cant, nor am I going to front or force myself to. Perhaps it's that I've always, always favored an East Coast style over the West Coast attitude. If you take a look at my favorite rappers of all time, it's practically one-sided and filled with nothing but lyricists who are native to the East. In the most simplistic of terms, I found most of the tracks on this record boring, and overall, I respect the idea of the album and that so many people enjoy him, but I just cant. If you're a smoker this record probably floats your boat, but alas, I am not, so it didn't. I know people like the groove with most of this, but for me I was just left indifferent and wanting to hear something that grabbed me; something that knocked... Oh well.



BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT (overall) -- Myself.

        I can easily say beyond a shadow of a doubt that this last year, 2012, was the worst year of my entire life. There were a few moments of sunshine, but my own selfish actions and choices guaranteed I'd see nothing but dismal rain overhead throughout. I am sorry for hurting the people I did, and moreover just oddly not being the person I've always been... I've already vowed to take 2013 by the balls and squeeze, and attempt my best with honesty and tenacity. Words are words and actions are actions, but I promise I will put forth great effort and become respectable and worthy of whatever may come my way... Happy New Year?


FUNNEST ARTIST TO WATCH (literally) -- LEIF(kolt)

    This marvelous man bombarded the music scene this year with numerous astounding videos; videos frankly, that put most others to shame. He was something of a wizard in that right. Here's some of what I was talking about, so you can delve into the intriguing and entertaining visual world he released this past year...

--  http://youtu.be/CD5_HWEo0aw

--  http://youtu.be/o5uPiuOn3e0

--  http://youtu.be/vsJD4BtIY5g

    Also, feel free to check out his website www.leifkolt.com, and further browse his wonderful works.


 

  BEST LOCAL LAS VEGAS CELEBRITY -- Vessel.

    I ran into this man on three separate occasions this year, each one with me feeling more depressed, and I couldn't help but think how awesome this guy is. I love him, and you should, too; even if you've never been to Las Vegas. Him and I worked together on the final track for my prior album, "The David Schwimmer of Hip Hop" last year, and I sincerely plan to get something brewing with him soon, if he'd only be so kind. This man knows how to take off a shirt while performing his songs and still have you focused on what matters -- his pecks.


 
     Anyhow, that's it for me. Thanks for anyone who read through this, and much appreciation to these artists for making music for you and I to enjoy. I'll be around... Be excellent to each other.




.,CAStLE,.

 

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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