1. I was playing with the “Faster Song” modifier and got a score of 197,000 on Breezer, this was an A. I then played it normally and got 193,000 and that was an S.

From what I understood I thought the modifier would add 8% onto my total score, or is it saying that I have a chance to score 8% more points, making the total points I need for an S go up? If so, that’s pretty dumb

1. Does anyone have a list for the score requirements for SS’ing songs? I can’t find any info for that anywhere. I just got S on my 15 hard songs, so then I’m moving onto to Expert then going to try and SS

EDIT: answered my own second question almost immediately. SS is just getting 90% of the possible score, so for expert Rum and Bass for example it’s around 499,000, which what the fuck. I thought getting 400,000 for the campaign was hard enough

Hi Everyone! I posted this on Colognes but figured I’d share here, too.
I’ve always loved good smelling stuff and for the last 15 years I’ve usually had one bottle of cologne, and would replace once it’s out. Only in the last few months have I really delved into this world and began filling out a modest collection. I’m definitely not an expert (so take my reviews with a big grain of salt) but I love smelling and writing so here ya go. (Fucking wall of text incoming lmao, I didn’t realize how lengthy this got)
I just got back from a three-hour mall trip to try and get my nose on as many niche fragrances as my senses would tolerate. I had already done a good bit of research so I had some picked out to try and others already crossed-off. Im a 30M for reference.
I also had the goal in mind to find a contender for a fall/winter scent that exudes class, sophistication and decadence. For that, I’ve already tried a few that I really enjoy, and kind of used these as a springboard to continue exploring:
Xerjoff Alexandria II- This is what I envision royalty wearing. Lavender and rosewood mix soooo nice in the open, and dries into a lovey rose/vanilla/essence of oud. The oud is really toned down here for those that dislike it. It’s kind of hard to pick out. Nuclear performance.
Initio Oud for Greatness- Another good starter oud, you could say (this was my introduction to oud). It lasts forever and the dry down is seriously heavenly. The wet, soily oud is at the forefront for 2-4 hours, but I’m absolutely in love with what’s left when it disappears. Lavender, saffron, nutmeg and musk mixes into the best dryer-sheet-like scent I’ve come across (what it reminds ME of at least).
Perfums de Marly Haltane- Quite similar in the opening to Oud for Greatness. Haltane is darker, though, where I get more leathesmoke. I think the oud in this is more subdued, or at least less moist smelling. It blends well and lasts a good while.
Initio Atomic Rose- Holy shit. Apparently rose gets my motor GOING. I tried a lot of rose-centric fragrances today, but this probably still takes the cake for its balance and strength, in addition to the scent itself being just gorgeous.
So with those in mind I was off to Neiman Marcus. I sampled a large amount more than what I’ve written, but stuck to the ones that were memorable; good or bad.
Frederic Malle - Portrait of a Lady- My favorite of the Frederic Malle. Sensual rose/clove/currant at the front, but it is kind of hard to pick out specific notes on this one. After looking, I can get the cinnamon in the background of the dry down, it blends perfectly with the sandalwood, rose and benzoin after drying down. - Carnal Flower- Some similarity to POAL, lots of tuberose and jasmine, which I personally like. A bright yet sensual floral, and you get some coconut and melon there, too. I typically dislike coconut but this is blended masterfully. - Lipstick Rose- Yeah, that’s what it smells like. Try this if you’ve seen people describe scents as lipstick-y or violet taking on that accord. Not my cup of tea, also leans more feminine to my nose than the other two. - Musc Ravageur- I really wanted to like this one. And for a split second I did! A clove-y vanilla sasparilla is what I first got, and it unfortunately turned into barnyard urine. I immediately remembered seeing some reviews stating this, and I couldn’t get my nose to move past it. I can tell there’s good stuff there, but not for me.
Amouage - Reflection- The only one I’d tried before, and remains one of my favs. Rosemary and pink pepper greet you with a deep, fresh spice. The vetiver and patchouli sit nicely at the bottom, and the combination of white florals mixes wonderfully. Another scent I could imagine on royalty, and seems pretty versatile, too. You could wear this year-round without feeling out of place. Insane staying power. - Lyric- Probably my favorite, but I need to smell again on another day. Compared to the other Amouage, I had to continually stick my nose in the coffe beans to pick up the scent from the test strip. When I did get it, it was a lovely light, fresh scent. Quite a departure from the other Amouage I’ve tried, but great. No surprise, the list of notes are some of my favorites: lime, bergamot, rose, orange blossom, saffron, nutmeg, musk, pine, vanilla, incense, sandalwood. Seriously, love each and all those individually and they come together beautifully. - Interlude- Another good one. Dark, mysterious. Definitely get the oregano/peppepatchouli/incense bomb off the top. Leather lurking behind. I typically don’t gravitate toward the leathery scents but this one’s good. - Enclave- This pretty much seals the deal for me that on me, mint just ain’t it. I liked Sedley at first, but the mint somehow gets too cloying to my nose after too long. I can tell I would get the same from the peppermint in the opening of Enclave. I almost liked this one, too. If you can even tolerate peppermint, you’ll enjoy this one.
Mind Games - Blockade- Wowww. First sniff love, here. Explosion of citrus, juicy fruit-y sex. I usually find myself staying away from citrus-forward scents but this shit is next level. This will be a contender for my next upscale summer buy. - Double Attack- Another love at first sniff. It’s familiar, though. Chocolate/orange/cinnamon/vanilla. You’ll want to eat it right up. I already have this box checked in my collection, but may come back to it in the future. - Checkmate- Another lovely scent. Champagne, red currant, rose, magnolia, little patchouli. It all comes together really nicely, and it was difficult for me to pick out specific notes before looking. Not a love, but I was really impressed with the quality and scent profile of the Mind Games I tried.
Clive Christian - Town & Country- Wow. No seriously, like fucking wow. Smells like an Italian fruit cart strolling through an English manor’s sprawling garden road. I look at the notes and I don’t understand how you get this smell supposedly out of Clary Sage, Ambergris, and Sandalwood. Like, what? This is high quality shit. I get some pear or grapes there, too. Try this. - Crab Apple Blossom- Yum yum yum this is goooood. Smells like it sounds. Bergamot, apple blossom and rhubarb dance around playfully together. Can’t help but have a big stupid smile on your face when you smell this. The more it dried down, the more it might be my favorite over Town & Country. - Matsukita- Another great scent. In the same vein as the other two since they are part of the same “Crown Collection.” You get some smokiness, here. Bergamot with nutmeg and mate give depth and a little mystery. White florals, woody ambers and musk at the base. Just quality stuff here. All three of these in the Crown Collection were available in 10ml travel size gift pack for $300. Good idea to put on my wish list. That shit is kiiiinda expensive.
Xerjoff - Erba Pura- I did not expect to like this as much as I did! Favorite that I sampled. Perfect combination of citrus and fruitiness off the top, layered over a bed of sweet musk. Something here is very familiar to my nose but I couldn’t place it. This will be another top contender for a future upscale summer purchase. - Accento- Soothing scent. Fruity white floral (usually dumb reach for me), and the iris gives it some powder but not overpowering. Not as feminine-leaning as I would have expected. - Iommi- Delicious! Sweet smoky rum off the top, and it’s a little surprising how forward the patchouli and leather is in this. It’s bordering on being a little overpowering, but it tames a bit on the dry down. I’d need to see how this goes on my skin, for sure. - Torino 21- Another one that I liked way more than expected. I’m going back and seeing mint listed as a top note here…I didn’t get that! And thank God since mint usually is a non-starter. Kind of an aquatic green to my nose. Again, just a lovely scent. - Naxos- Yeah ok this is good shit. I was expecting a sweet bomb, but this is definitely more restrained than what a lot of reviewers will have you believe. I’m a sucker for lavender and bergamot. Throw in honey and jasmine atop a bed of tobacco, vanilla and tonka bean? Yes please. - Erba Gold- Pretty good. To my nose more feminine than Erba Pura, likely due to the extra fruits in the middle. That combination of citruses, pear and melon is reminiscent of particular ladies’ scents.
Louis Vuitton - L’Immensité- Ohhhh yeahh. Relaxation in a bottle. My favorite besides maybe Fleur du Desert. This, Imagination and Météore all kind of dance to the same song, so to speak. More than one of these would be redundant, in my opinion. The quality speaks through each of these fragrances, though- really nice stuff. - Imagination- The name fits, as a lot of the notes here are almost fleeting like a word on the tip of your tongue. It’s a great, calming scent but it didn’t blow me away. Like I said, L’Immensité was the best of these and I don’t see the need to diversify within this collection. - Météore- Compared to L’Immensité, there’s a little more sweetness here. This leans closer to a shower gel-like scent in my opinion. Still great. - Fleur du Désert- This one started out reallly good. Honey and cinnamon into rose and orange blossom is an intriguing, sensual combination. Unfortunately, smelling it on my arm after a couple hours, the jasmine and honey turn into something my mind recognizes as an old lady scent. The POAL on my hand, by comparison, keeps mixing with my skin in a great pheromonic way. - Ombre Nomad- Disappointed with this one. I’m realizing I don’t gravitate toward darker scents like heavy oud, leather, incense. I can tell it’s put together really well and uses quality materials, but this isn’t one that was made for me.
All in all, my main take-aways include: Xerjoff scents living up to the name. I was definitely impressed with their offerings, and would have expected it to lean closer to overrated. Same with Mind Games. Really enjoyed everything I sampled from them, even if it wasn’t my cup of tea, I was impressed with the quality. Also, I need to get back and sample the rest of the Clive Christian house. I was absolutely blown away with what I tried.
A little bonus: I tried TF Noir de Noir, Extreme Noir, and Cafe Rose. Extreme Noir is excellent. A regal mix of saffron, nutmeg and cardamom on top of rose and white florals. Ahhhh, again, similar to what I imagine a king or king to smell like.
Cafe Rose is probably the second best rose-centric scent to my nose besides Atomic Rose. I’ll need to put those side by side.
Anyway, feel free to ask away if you’d like. I was bored and inspired so killed some time writing this out :)

Hi Everyone! I’ve always loved good smelling stuff and for the last 15 years I’ve usually had one bottle of cologne, and would replace once it’s out. Only in the last few months have I really delved into this world and began filling out a modest collection. I’m definitely not an expert (so take my reviews with a big grain of salt) but I love smelling and writing so here ya go. (Fucking wall of text incoming lmao, I didn’t realize how lengthy this got)
I just got back from a three-hour mall trip to try and get my nose on as many niche fragrances as my senses would tolerate. I had already done a good bit of research so I had some picked out to try and others already crossed-off. Im a 30M for reference.
I also had the goal in mind to find a contender for a fall/winter scent that exudes class, sophistication and decadence. For that, I’ve already tried a few that I really enjoy, and kind of used these as a springboard to continue exploring:
Xerjoff Alexandria II- This is what I envision royalty wearing. Lavender and rosewood mix soooo nice in the open, and dries into a lovey rose/vanilla/essence of oud. The oud is really toned down here for those that dislike it. It’s kind of hard to pick out. Nuclear performance.
Initio Oud for Greatness- Another good starter oud, you could say (this was my introduction to oud). It lasts forever and the dry down is seriously heavenly. The wet, soily oud is at the forefront for 2-4 hours, but I’m absolutely in love with what’s left when it disappears. Lavender, saffron, nutmeg and musk mixes into the best dryer-sheet-like scent I’ve come across (what it reminds ME of at least).
Perfums de Marly Haltane- Quite similar in the opening to Oud for Greatness. Haltane is darker, though, where I get more leathesmoke. I think the oud in this is more subdued, or at least less moist smelling. It blends well and lasts a good while.
Initio Atomic Rose- Holy shit. Apparently rose gets my motor GOING. I tried a lot of rose-centric fragrances today, but this probably still takes the cake for its balance and strength, in addition to the scent itself being just gorgeous.
So with those in mind I was off to Neiman Marcus. I sampled a large amount more than what I’ve written, but stuck to the ones that were memorable; good or bad.
Frederic Malle - Portrait of a Lady- My favorite of the Frederic Malle. Sensual rose/clove/currant at the front, but it is kind of hard to pick out specific notes on this one. After looking, I can get the cinnamon in the background of the dry down, it blends perfectly with the sandalwood, rose and benzoin after drying down. - Carnal Flower- Some similarity to POAL, lots of tuberose and jasmine, which I personally like. A bright yet sensual floral, and you get some coconut and melon there, too. I typically dislike coconut but this is blended masterfully. - Lipstick Rose- Yeah, that’s what it smells like. Try this if you’ve seen people describe scents as lipstick-y or violet taking on that accord. Not my cup of tea, also leans more feminine to my nose than the other two. - Musc Ravageur- I really wanted to like this one. And for a split second I did! A clove-y vanilla sasparilla is what I first got, and it unfortunately turned into barnyard urine. I immediately remembered seeing some reviews stating this, and I couldn’t get my nose to move past it. I can tell there’s good stuff there, but not for me.
Amouage - Reflection- The only one I’d tried before, and remains one of my favs. Rosemary and pink pepper greet you with a deep, fresh spice. The vetiver and patchouli sit nicely at the bottom, and the combination of white florals mixes wonderfully. Another scent I could imagine on royalty, and seems pretty versatile, too. You could wear this year-round without feeling out of place. Insane staying power. - Lyric- Probably my favorite, but I need to smell again on another day. Compared to the other Amouage, I had to continually stick my nose in the coffe beans to pick up the scent from the test strip. When I did get it, it was a lovely light, fresh scent. Quite a departure from the other Amouage I’ve tried, but great. No surprise, the list of notes are some of my favorites: lime, bergamot, rose, orange blossom, saffron, nutmeg, musk, pine, vanilla, incense, sandalwood. Seriously, love each and all those individually and they come together beautifully. - Interlude- Another good one. Dark, mysterious. Definitely get the oregano/peppepatchouli/incense bomb off the top. Leather lurking behind. I typically don’t gravitate toward the leathery scents but this one’s good. - Enclave- This pretty much seals the deal for me that on me, mint just ain’t it. I liked Sedley at first, but the mint somehow gets too cloying to my nose after too long. I can tell I would get the same from the peppermint in the opening of Enclave. I almost liked this one, too. If you can even tolerate peppermint, you’ll enjoy this one.
Mind Games - Blockade- Wowww. First sniff love, here. Explosion of citrus, juicy fruit-y sex. I usually find myself staying away from citrus-forward scents but this shit is next level. This will be a contender for my next upscale summer buy. - Double Attack- Another love at first sniff. It’s familiar, though. Chocolate/orange/cinnamon/vanilla. You’ll want to eat it right up. I already have this box checked in my collection, but may come back to it in the future. - Checkmate- Another lovely scent. Champagne, red currant, rose, magnolia, little patchouli. It all comes together really nicely, and it was difficult for me to pick out specific notes before looking. Not a love, but I was really impressed with the quality and scent profile of the Mind Games I tried.
Clive Christian - Town & Country- Wow. No seriously, like fucking wow. Smells like an Italian fruit cart strolling through an English manor’s sprawling garden road. I look at the notes and I don’t understand how you get this smell supposedly out of Clary Sage, Ambergris, and Sandalwood. Like, what? This is high quality shit. I get some pear or grapes there, too. Try this. - Crab Apple Blossom- Yum yum yum this is goooood. Smells like it sounds. Bergamot, apple blossom and rhubarb dance around playfully together. Can’t help but have a big stupid smile on your face when you smell this. The more it dried down, the more it might be my favorite over Town & Country. - Matsukita- Another great scent. In the same vein as the other two since they are part of the same “Crown Collection.” You get some smokiness, here. Bergamot with nutmeg and mate give depth and a little mystery. White florals, woody ambers and musk at the base. Just quality stuff here. All three of these in the Crown Collection were available in 10ml travel size gift pack for $300. Good idea to put on my wish list. That shit is kiiiinda expensive.
Xerjoff - Erba Pura- I did not expect to like this as much as I did! Favorite that I sampled. Perfect combination of citrus and fruitiness off the top, layered over a bed of sweet musk. Something here is very familiar to my nose but I couldn’t place it. This will be another top contender for a future upscale summer purchase. - Accento- Soothing scent. Fruity white floral (usually dumb reach for me), and the iris gives it some powder but not overpowering. Not as feminine-leaning as I would have expected. - Iommi- Delicious! Sweet smoky rum off the top, and it’s a little surprising how forward the patchouli and leather is in this. It’s bordering on being a little overpowering, but it tames a bit on the dry down. I’d need to see how this goes on my skin, for sure. - Torino 21- Another one that I liked way more than expected. I’m going back and seeing mint listed as a top note here…I didn’t get that! And thank God since mint usually is a non-starter. Kind of an aquatic green to my nose. Again, just a lovely scent. - Naxos- Yeah ok this is good shit. I was expecting a sweet bomb, but this is definitely more restrained than what a lot of reviewers will have you believe. I’m a sucker for lavender and bergamot. Throw in honey and jasmine atop a bed of tobacco, vanilla and tonka bean? Yes please. - Erba Gold- Pretty good. To my nose more feminine than Erba Pura, likely due to the extra fruits in the middle. That combination of citruses, pear and melon is reminiscent of particular ladies’ scents.
Louis Vuitton - L’Immensité- Ohhhh yeahh. Relaxation in a bottle. My favorite besides maybe Fleur du Desert. This, Imagination and Météore all kind of dance to the same song, so to speak. More than one of these would be redundant, in my opinion. The quality speaks through each of these fragrances, though- really nice stuff. - Imagination- The name fits, as a lot of the notes here are almost fleeting like a word on the tip of your tongue. It’s a great, calming scent but it didn’t blow me away. Like I said, L’Immensité was the best of these and I don’t see the need to diversify within this collection. - Météore- Compared to L’Immensité, there’s a little more sweetness here. This leans closer to a shower gel-like scent in my opinion. Still great. - Fleur du Désert- This one started out reallly good. Honey and cinnamon into rose and orange blossom is an intriguing, sensual combination. Unfortunately, smelling it on my arm after a couple hours, the jasmine and honey turn into something my mind recognizes as an old lady scent. The POAL on my hand, by comparison, keeps mixing with my skin in a great pheromonic way. - Ombre Nomad- Disappointed with this one. I’m realizing I don’t gravitate toward darker scents like heavy oud, leather, incense. I can tell it’s put together really well and uses quality materials, but this isn’t one that was made for me.
All in all, my main take-aways include: Xerjoff scents living up to the name. I was definitely impressed with their offerings, and would have expected it to lean closer to overrated. Same with Mind Games. Really enjoyed everything I sampled from them, even if it wasn’t my cup of tea, I was impressed with the quality. Also, I need to get back and sample the rest of the Clive Christian house. I was absolutely blown away with what I tried.
A little bonus: I tried TF Noir de Noir, Extreme Noir, and Cafe Rose. Extreme Noir is excellent. A regal mix of saffron, nutmeg and cardamom on top of rose and white florals. Ahhhh, again, similar to what I imagine a king or king to smell like.
Cafe Rose is probably the second best rose-centric scent to my nose besides Atomic Rose. I’ll need to put those side by side.
Anyway, feel free to ask away if you’d like. I was bored and inspired so killed some time writing this out :)

So if anyone hasn't played it, Beat Saber is a VR rhythm game where you swing swords to cut blocks to music. There's a track on there called Rum & Bass and ever since I played it, I've been thinking how cool it would be to have an Alestorm pack in the game.
If it became an option, what 8 songs would you pick for Alestorm on Beat Saber?

New punk from the Midwest (US)
Playlistcover: EDGING
Recently added fantastic songs by, a.o.: Big Life, Mascots, Leaving Off, NightFreak, Lost Legion, Cel Ray, Rum Luck, killmoves, The Burn Vault and many more

Where do I start?
Recently I lost my brother unexpectedly at the age of 46, this sent my whole family into a spiral and traditionally as a family alcohol is where we turn. In the two weeks following his death I drank at least a bottle of rum a day, sometimes two, I smoked all the weed and drank all the rum to try and delay the emotional crash that I knew I was going to have to face. Then one night a few days before the funeral I took a load of mushroom juice as well as another bottle and a half of rum. A song came on and in that moment every different verse spoke to the pain my family and I have endured to alcohol our entire lives and I knew in that moment if i didn't break that chain my sons would end up in this same position. I took a picture of that last rum and coke, then through it out of the window and said enough was enough. My entire family were shocked when at the bar at the wake I asked for pineapple juice, I explained that I had stopped drinking, which my friends were hugely supportive of, but in that moment my family, already leaning into drink, were not quite as supportive.
I gave my reasons and drank my pineapple juice.
Its now been 18 days and I haven't drank, a huge achievement for me personally as over the last 10 years the most I had gone was 5 days.
There is a link to the song, a remix of "dear alcohol by Dax" below.
I hope it hits more people the way it hit me, its a very powerful song and anyone who is living with alcohol abuse, or an alcoholic should be warned it may stir up emotions.
https://youtu.be/2qQ_0i_ixlM?si=rHhH6vYv038GGycY

Hello everyone! This is the songlist feedback thread for the next rate, the Late Gen 2 Girl Groups Rate!

Vote in the Songlist Feedback survey: https://forms.gle/xS5c2amFEg8ZsBP19

^ We do ask that you vote on which songs you think should be in the rate, not just which songs you personally like (though you can factor personal preference into your picks).

* Link to Spotify playlist of all songs in voting: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0nyhLzaZTRbgayTzD6ahFH?si=5biufr3KQP6b4VUoI2YbTA&pi=e-k9WRSnaURsGw

* Link to YouTube playlist of all songs in voting: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLteEgF5zQE0h6JqJ1Scnuj68dPLBK8bCs

How the songs were chosen:
Songs were primarily chosen based off of kpop's Top Ten Tuesdays, and Spotify streams for the songs was a major consideration as well. We also took a look at sonical diversity and other popularity metrics.
Here is the tentative songlist for the rate:
Apink (9 songs):

• NoNoNo
• Mr. Chu
• I'm So Sick
• Eung Eung
• Dumhdurum
• Luv
• Remember
• [+2 of the following 4: Dilemma, Five, D N D, Only One]
• {Bonus: Bubibu OR Another one of the above 4 songs will become bonus}

f(x) (8 songs):

• 4 Walls
• Red Light
• Rum Pum Pum Pum
• Electric Shock
• Airplane
• Hot Summer*
• Pinnochio (Danger)*
• Nu Abo*
• {Bonus: Rude Love}

SISTAR (7 songs):

• I Like That
• Touch My Body
• Alone
• Ma Boy
• I Swear
• Give It to Me
• [+1 of the following 3: Lonely, Loving U, Shake It]
• {Bonus: Lead Me OR Another one of the above 3 will become bonus}

Girl's Day (5 songs):

• Something
• Expect
• Female President
• [+2 of the following 5: I'll Be Yours, Darling, Don't Forget Me, Twinkle Twinkle, Nothing Lasts Forever]
• {Bonus: Thirsty}

miss A (5 songs):

• Hush
• Bad Girl Good Girl
• Only You
• [+2 of the following 3: Goodbye Baby, I Don't Need A Man, Touch]
• {Bonus: Love Song}

T-ARA (5 songs):

• Roly Poly
• Sugar Free
• Number 9
• [+2 of the following 5: Sexy Love, Lovey Dovey, Day by Day, Like The First Time, Bo Peep Bo Peep]
• {Bonus: One of the above 5 songs will become bonus}

9Muses (3 songs):

• Wild
• Doll
• Hurt Locker
• {Bonus: One of the following 3 songs: Ticket, Glue, News}

DalShabet (2 songs):

• B.B.B
• Someone Like U

Stellar (2 songs):

• Vibrato
• Sting

Secret (1 song):

• [+1 of the following 5: I'm In Love, Poison, Love is Move, Magic, Madonna]

Rainbow (1 song):

• A

Total Song Count: 48 main songs (& 7 bonus songs)

{4Minute, 2NE1, After School & Orange Caramel, etc. are being allocated to Early Gen 2 Girl Groups.}
{EXID, HelloVenus, Crayon Pop, AOA, etc. are being allocated to Early Gen 3 Girl Groups.}
Feedback on the songlist wanted!
There are two main ways you can give feedback/input on the songlist:
One, you can choose to fill out this Google Form survey: https://forms.gle/xS5c2amFEg8ZsBP19.
Two, if you want to look to solicit fellow kpoprates Redditors' opinions and/or receive responses to your feedback, feel free to leave a comment below detailing your thoughts on the list and what you'd be interested in seeing changed. (Comments are more likely to change the songlist then simply voting, as comments are usually more in-depth and leave room for conversation/discussion, although we encourage you to both vote and comment)
I ask that you submit your feedback by May 18th (Saturday), by 11:59 AM Pacific (AM this time, not PM). The official rate announcement post should be published sometime around May 21st (Tuesday). Thanks!

I've recently got into Hyperpop and more specifically, m1v. A palatte of my favorite m1v songs would be kys, mayb, and I LOVE end me with 4 xans and a redbull. If anyone has and songs you think I would like or similar songs that you like please do suggest.

Apologies if I missed anything (I probably did). If you'd like me to elaborate on anything just ask. Also I'd pretty much consider anything from 82-upwards to be good lol, with the top 7-10 or so probably being among the greatest songs ever written.
92: We are in Space
91: Mobile Phone Premonition
90: daisy fingers
89: Dream
88: Joe Hawley Attacks!
87: miss melody
86: The Gobble Chicken Song
85: La Telenovela
84: Sea Cucumber
83: Mucka Blucka
82: Ghost
81: You and Me
80: nowhere else
79: In Memoriam
78: The Apologue of Hot Rod Duncan
77: Spiced Rum Commercial
76: A Lady
75: hummingbird
74: The Ballad of Nathan Naimark
73: Your Mother is a Basketball
72: Yearbook
71: at the end
70: Let Your Mother Know
69: Go to Bed
68: Aristotle’s Denial
67: Just Apathy
66: Sacred Beast
65: Garden of Eden
64: Go
63: Who You Are
62: Labyrinth
61: Time Machine
60: Hidden in the Sand
59: Bring Her Along
58: Flamingo
57: Old Bike
56: Another Minute
55: At Least A Day
54: lemons and pears
53: Stationary Love
52: Be Born
51: Introduction to the Snow
50: Never Meant to Know
49: (I Know) It’s Just the Same
48: Perfect
47: Good Day
46: Banana Man
45: The Rendezvous
44: You
43: Black Rainbows
42: Bahamian Rap City
41: Greener
40: Black People White People
39: Color Be Gone
38: HEY YOU!
37: Light & Night
36: Weird Bed &/or Yes Please
35: Two Wuv
34: The Whole World and You
33: The Bidding
32: Christian Bale is at Your Party
31: Haiku
30: Space Station Level 7
29: Misery Fell
28: Maybe In The Night
27: Out in the Twilight
26: Hymn for a Scarecrow
25: White Ball
24: Cannibal
23: Lonely (But Not Alone)
22: Hoodz ‘n the Woodz
21: Stranded Lullaby
20: Isle Unto Thyself
19: Break it Down
18: Welcome to Tally Hall
17: Fate of the Stars
16: The Trap
15: Rotary Park
14: Murders
13: Crazy Food
12: Shia LaBeouf Live
11: All I Need Is You
10: &
9: Taken For a Ride
8: Turn the Lights Off
7: The Mind Electric
6: Spring and a Storm
5: Ruler of Everything
4: Variations on a Cloud
3: Moon Waltz
2: Dream Sweet in Sea Major
1: I’m Gonna Win

LPs

• Gunna - One of Wun (w Offset, Normani, Roddy Ricch & Leon Bridges) [ATL Trap, YSL/300]
• Ryan Castro (🇨🇴) - EL CANTANTE DEL GHETTO (w Rich the Kid, Myke Towers, Ñengo Flow, Jowell & Randy, Arcángel, Peso Pluma + more) [Latin Rap, Sony]
• Chief Keef - Almighty So 2 (w Quavo, Sexyy Red, G Herbo, Tierra Whack, Lil Gnar & Ballout) [Chicago Drill]
• Kaash Paige - Catch Me While I Care (w SSGKobe + more) [R&B]
• Bugzy Malone (🇬🇧) - The Great British Dream [UK Rap]
• Tiwa Savage - Water & Garri (w Olamide, Arya Starr, Black Sherif + more) [Afrobeats]
• Andra Day - CASSANDRA (cherith) (w Wale) [R&B, Warner]
• Yaya Bey - Ten Fold [Neo-Soul, Big Dada]
• Ghostface Killah - Set The Tone (w Ye, Nas, Busta Rhymes, Method Man, Raekwon, AZ, Jim Jones, Fat Joe, Ja Rule, Sheek Louch + more) [East Coast Rap, Mass Appeal]
• Jordan Rakei (🇳🇿) - The Loop [R&B]
• Conway the Machine - SFK (w Joey Bada$$, Method Man, Raekwon, Larry June, Ab-Soul, Stove God Cooks + more) [NY Rap]
• M Huncho (🇬🇧) & Potter Payper (🇬🇧) - 36 Hours [UK Rap]
• The Act (UnoTheActivist) - Omega Music Vol. 1 (w Bear1Boss) [Rap]
• Nigel Hall & DJ Harrison - The Burning Bush: A Journey Through the Music of Earth, Wind & Fire [R&B, Covers]
• Potatohead People (🇨🇦) - Eat Your Heart Out (w Redman, T3, Shadiq Husayn, Ivan Ave + more) [Producer Album, Bastard Jazz]
• Yhapojj - P.S. Fuck You (w Lil Tony Official) [Jerk, Simple Stupid/Geffen]
• Elio Toffana (🇪🇸) - ALIENS (w Conway the Machine, Cruz Cafuné & Nickzzy) [Spanish Rap]
• Anonymuz - We$tSide [Rap]
• Yhung T.O. & Lil Sheik - Ballin' Like TuTu [Bay Area Trap]
• Baby Money - H.I.M. (Hustle In Me) (w Tee Grizzley, Veeze, G.T., Peezy & Skilla Baby) [Michigan Trap, QC]
• Napoleon da Legend & DJ Rhettmatic - LEGMATIC (w D-Styles + more) [Boom Bap]
• Noodah05 - 5 Minutes of Fame [ATL Trap]
• Luh Soldier - Soldier Life: Stand on Loyalty Compilation [Trap]
• Lil Bean - BACK TO BASICS 2 (w ZayBang, EBK Jaaybo & FREDOBAGZ) [Bay Area Trap]
• Cacahouète (🇫🇷) - Vrai igo [French Hip Hop]
• phreshboyswag – VIP* [Rap]
• KY SKYWALKA - Back To Grammy's [DMV Crank]
• Take A Mic (🇫🇷) - M1NDSET [French Hip Hop]
• How to Dress Well - I Am Toward You [Alt-R&B, Sargent House]
• MexikoDro - De Mayo [Plugg, Beats]
• Copywrite - T.H.E. Last Supper (w Slug, Ras Kass, Mickey Factz, Breeze Brewin + more) [Boom Bap]
• Nino Augustine (🇵🇦) - 100% [Latin Rap]
• Jaywill (🇫🇷) - COLD LONER'S REVENGE [French Hip Hop]
• VILK (🇫🇷) - VILKCORE [French Hip Hop]
• Sleep Sinatra & bloomcycle - Memory​(​ummm​.​.​.​) (w PremRock, SKECH185 + more) [Underground Rap]

Deluxe

• That Mexican OT & DJ Lil Steve - Texas Technician: ChopNotSlop [TX Rap, Capitol]
• Adi Oasis - Lotus Glow [R&B]
• 22Gz - Growth & Development [NY Drill]
• Amindi - Take What You Need And Then Some (w MAVI & Vayda) [Rap]

EPs

• BigXthaPlug, Ro$ama & Young Hood- Meet The 6ixers [TX Trap]
• Charles Ans (🇲🇽), La Loquera (🇨🇴) & Ms. Amber (🇲🇽) - Serendipia [Latin]
• Seyi Vibez (🇳🇬) - VBZINC (w ODOMODUBLVCK, Stonebwoy, Bloody Civilian + more) [Afrobeats, Dvpper]
• Pink Siifu - GOT FOOD AT THE CRIB'! VOL​.​2* [Rap]
• Kalan.FrFr - MAKE THE WEST GREAT AGAIN (w Ty Dolla $ign, G Herbo, YG & Spooky Jay) [West Coast Rap, Roc Nation]
• 21 Lil Harold - Sick of Myself (w Quavo, G Herbo, JID & BigXthaPlug) [ATL Trap, Slaughter Gang/Epic]
• 3dnan (🇪🇸)- LUNA NUEVA [Latin]
• Slkrack (🇫🇷) - Jeune, black & qu'en à rien à branler [French Hip Hop]
• Dizzy Fae - Are We There Yet? [R&B]
• 4Fargo - Express&B (w Jacquees, K CAMP & Honey Bxby) [R&B, Republic]
• Mannywellz - The Purple Tape [R&B]
• Kiefer, Luke Titus & Pera Krstajic - Something For Real [Jazz, Live, Stones Throw]
• Cosha (🇮🇪) - MurMurs [R&B]
• Left Lane Didon - INDICATORS: EPISODE 5 [Rap]
• PLAYERRWAYS & GtmoneyDt - GrimeyLocWays (w Ralfy the Plug, Swifty Blue & GoodFinesse) [West Coast Trap, Stinc]
• Vintna B (🇨🇱) - Mal Augurio [Latin]
• AXHE (🇪🇸) - 04:04 [Latin]
• White N (🇫🇷) - DEUX FOIS PLUS QU'EUX [French Hip Hop]
• esone (🇫🇷) - 0-119 [French Hip Hop]
• Butch Dawson & Stan Lane - Keep It Brief, Vol. 1 [Rap]
• MISA (🇫🇷) & YEUZE LOW (🇫🇷) - L'HUILE AU SOL [French Hip Hop]
• Ferris Blusa & Jamil Honesty - Surrender to Gawd Alone (w Maze Overlay + more) [Rap, Free Lunch]
• CHUNG (🇨🇦) - Perdu In Peru (w Santana Fox + more) [Jazz Rap]
• Rhys Langston & Steel Tipped Dove - Polygot on Chloroform (w Fatboi Sharif) [Rap]
• AK (🇫🇷) - BIGDAWG EVO [French Hip Hop]
• Dude (🇫🇷) - K2 [French Hip Hop]

Songs

• Drake - THE HEART PART 6*
• Kendrick Lamar - meet the grahams / Not Like Us
• Khalid - Please Don't Fall In Love With Me (Sango Remix)
• Earlly Mac & Sango - Days of Our Lives (feat. WESTSIDE BOOGIE, Dave Hill & Young RJ)
• Tee Grizzley & Wheezy - Swear To God (feat. Future)
• Camila Cabello & Lil Nas X - HE KNOWS
• BLK ODYSSY - XXX (feat. Wiz Khalifa)
• Omar Montes, SAIKO & Tunvao - Arena y Sal (Remix) [feat. Anitta, Sech, Yandel, FMK & LIT killah]
• Wisin, Anitta, Shaggy & Maffio - Peligrosa
• Megan Thee Stallion - BOA / I Think I love Her Freestyle*
• Rich The Kid & D.A. Got That Dope - Band Man
• Central Cee - CC Freestyle
• NLE Choppa - Stickin' And Movin'
• J Abdiel & iZaak - WYA (White Remix) [feat. Juhn, Slayter, Aleesha] / (Blue Remix) (feat. Hades66, Miky Woodz & Corina Smith) / (Red Remix) [feat. De La Rose, Yan Block & Jay Wheeler]
• Ice Spice & RIOTUSA - Gimmie A Light
• Coi Leray - Lemon Cars
• T.I. & NBA Youngboy - Llogclay
• Key Glock - The Greatest
• iann dior - Edge of Tommorow
• The Game - Freeway’s Revenge
• BlakelANA & Moneybagg Yo - Pricey
• Ellis Quinn & eK! - HOTLANTA (feat. A$AP Ferg, Lee Cash & DRAM)*
• Sleepy Hallow - Winners In Paris
• Ski Mask The Slump God - Headrush
• Mabel & Shygirl - Look At My Body, Pt. II
• DJ Bandz - GTA (feat. Rob49, Fivio Foreign & Skilla Baby)
• Big Hit, Hit-Boy & The Alchemist - Foreclosure
• Falling In Reverse - Ronald (feat. Tech N9ne & Alex Terrible)
• Mach-Hommy & KAYTRANADA - #RichAxxHaitian (feat. 03 Greedo)
• Destroy Lonely - Luv 4 Ya
• Z1NO & ArrDee - C'est La Vie (More Filler)
• Shoreline Mafia (Fenix Flexin & OHGEESY) - HEAT STICK
• Davy Finesse - Your Vibe (feat. OHGEESY)
• Clara La Sun - Talking To You
• DJ Mekalek - Skylines (feat. Westside Gunn & Mickey Diamond)
• BOJ & Ragee - Love Garden (feat. Adekunle Gold)
• ANGEL DIOR & Jisac - Bichiyal
• Fredo - Top G
• Larry June - Meet Me In Napa
• Young M.A. - TRIM
• SoFaygo - TUT
• SLIZZY ENT - MARNI (feat. Cash Cobain, Marni, Vontee the Singer & Matthew Ali)
• Tink - Huh
• BIG30 - SANG TO EM
• Lilbubblegum & REI AMI - I SEE RED
• KingTrey, Mick Jenkins & KOTA The Friend - Right On Time
• Machinedrum - WEARY (feat. Mick Jenkins & Jesse Boykins III)
• Fliptrix, Greentea Peng & Leaf Dog - Cosmic Scenes
• Jdot Breezy - EBK
• MO3 - Tidal Wave
• Groovy - KNO ME
• Jackboy & BabyDrill - No Diddy
• FloFilz - Nightly Passage (feat. Rob Araujo)
• Pak-Man & Steel Banglez - Standard
• 1RealFatty & YTB Fatt - 5 Stars (No Diddy)
• ShooterGang Kony - Real Money
• skaiwater - bleach
• Nappy Roots - Play Clothes
• Wizz Havin - Kardi B (Already Rich Remix)
• Loe Shimmy & Wizz Havin - Zuper
• RJmrLA & Joe Moses - Faces & Names
• SwuM & GRiMM DOZA - BNB (feat. Mike Shaub)
• DeeBaby - Now Tell Me Why
• wewantwraiths & Still Brickin - 5AM In Bali
• Yung Pinch - LUST CLUB
• Komari, Cozz & Anik Khan - Kiwi Mango
• Coach, Pressa & NorthSideBenji - DWTD
• Sukihana - COCAINE (JT Diss)*
• Rexx Life Raj - B&E
• Reese LAFLARE - Pink Range Rover (feat. Foggieraw & PM FRVR)
• CEO Trayle - SuperFly
• lou deezi - Missing His Soul
• Babyxsosa - Be My Baby
• Dwells - Who U Luv (idc) [feat. Babyxsosa]
• Moody Bank$, Kaelin Ellis & Xar - Love Me
• Lil Vada & - Los Scandalous (feat. Lefty Gunplay) / Not Like Us (Remix)
• BigBandz & Louie Ray - Frfr
• Eurohead, JJ & Thaiboy Digital - Let Go / I'm Fresh
• Jake Isaac - OKAY
• HDBeenDope & Scottie Flames - LetColeKnow*
• RyiahG - Housekeeper (feat. ALLBLACK)
• Hardrock - Rascal (Trust)
• 1100 Himelf, Mari Peso, Ranvo & EBK Juvie Ju - Bad Azz Kid
• Kt Foreign & EBK Jaaybo - Oochie Wally
• DaBolyy & Tivi Gunz - Tumbao
• Thizzler on the Roof - Ambitions of a Trap Star (Bar Wars Cypher #14) [feat. Maj4l, 1100 Himself, Kflex & Nemz]
• Lil Maru & DB.Boutabag - Bad
• Rich Rillz, Smoke DZA & Big Tyme - Roll Up
• Smoke DZA & DJ RELLYRELL - U.G.L.Y. (U Gotta Love Yourself) [feat. TheARTI$T]
• Sexton & Lil Gotit - How
• Maxx Air & Lil Gotit - Murder Talk
• Azizi Gibson - Outta My Head
• RMAND - CRV
• Kabwasa & Shaw00p - Just Text Me
• Farma G, Wish Master & Sonnyjim - Créme De La Créme
• Opmquan - Ones To Blame (feat. Leaf Ward)
• Max Limit, ilysm, Madi Serket & RXKNephew - I'M LOSING MY MIND
• HUE SOUND (Mad Keys, Phoelix & Paris Price) - WANTS
• bblink, jaydes & xaviersobased - Vaxstyle (feat. Isocharm)
• André Mego, Georgia Anne Muldrow & Josef Leimberg - You Should Know
• Caleborate - Cold As Ice
• Mitchell - Fake Love
• Deema - LILREDWHIP
• Kossiko - Finally Free
• BreadWinner Lil HK, EBK BCKDOE & Ranvo - Alphabet Boys
• Jeriq - Ije Nwoke
• MW Deebo & EBK Juvie Ju - Politican
• Show Banga - Real First (feat. Lil Bean)
• CLIP - 2 The FACE
• Freshman Woes - Effortless (feat. Fashawn, LMNO & Myka-9)
• Canibus & Johnny Slash - The Demi Side (feat. Rockness Monsta & Hus Kingpin)
• Towkio & Reeseynem - Shake the Floor
• Church & AP - WTF (Remix) [feat. Dom McLennon & deadforest]
• KayFaraway & ROMderful - Sweet
• Laszlo - THIRTY (feat. Len)
• Da$H - MUSCLE MEMORY / Honolulu
• Flavonoids - Not the One (feat. Inspectah Deck & Teeks)
• Swoosh God - Agyal Not Amen
• Struggle Mike & DJ Benoit - GANDOLFINI (feat. OT The Real & Rick Hyde)
• Berm, YSR Gramz, Since99 & $weet-T - Moshpit
• Jynx716 & Che Noir - Intent (feat. Vic Spencer)
• Freddy Got Magic & Supa Bwe - We Live
• Lemuell - Mensajes Ficticios
• deem spencer - pony
• FLOHIO - Make It Bang
• Kaandake & Sa-Roc - Soulmate (Here I am)
• GAWD - Frontin' / Nasty Girl
• R2R Moe - Made4me
• Baby Bounce - Kobe (feat. Tapri Grams)
• Jurdan Bryant - Uknowdat
• Rory Sweeney & Tony Bontana - Departed

BBL Drizzy (prod. by Metro Boomin)

• Masego - BBL Drizzy Sax Diss.wav
• Tim Henson (of Polyphia) - BBL Drizzy
• DigBar & KolossalKocks - BBL DRIZZY DISS TRACK!
• RXKNephew - What Does BBL Even Mean
• PACKGOD & Yumi - BBL DRIZZY (Drake Diss Track)
• christ dillinger - #bbldrizzybeatgiveaway.wav
• KevinKempt - #bbldrizzybeatgiveaway
• Scru Face Jean - BBL Drizzy Freestyle
• Kamui - OVO Tokyo
• yungmaple - FUCK DRAKE FREESTYLE #BBLDRIZZY
• BLACCMASS - not like us x isley brothers
• Nem - BBL Drizzy

Old Drop Watches

2023 and 2024 Calendar

1. Leonard Cohen - Songs of Leonard Cohen (1968) A [3 listens B/A-/A] not really a "Rock" album, but it's one of those albums that constantly caught my eye, plus 60s albums are getting hard to come by. His writing is otherworldly. Fully lived experiences and age with every character in these songs. I would hate to live in his mind, as it seems so damn complex and very overanalytical on every single human interaction. If Bob Dylan is a storyteller, he is a painter; the level of complexity in all of these characters and people are so detailed. Similar to Blood on the Tracks, a lot of the songs are about romance and past relationships, however unlike that album, it isn't as heartbroken and shows a lot of value towards those experiences; even if they're all difficult to move past. Great album and that is enhanced by close, focused deep dives into these lyrics.
2. Yes: i. The Yes Album (1971) A++ [6 listens A+/A++/A+/A+/A++/A++] Close to the Edge is still one of the most Epic-like songs in Rock history, so I was thinking it was going to be pretty hard to top that, and it turns out, they already did lol. CttE is a great song, but the rest of the album is merely ok, whereas Venture is the only weak song. Everything else is MAGNIFICENT!! Move over harmonica, the organ is officially the most underrated instrument now. EVERY climax of each song is immaculate, the guitar and keyboards are always on point, the singing has never been better! Nothing could ever match what CttE is, but they started off with making a more consistent album throughout instead of only in one song. All timer. ii. Fragile (1971) A- [3 listens A-/A-/A-] first time I actually felt like I got Rick Roll'd by an album, as I didn't realize that the song from that meme was from Roundabout lol. The song is great and is even better the longer it develops. However, it does fall apart as the album gets deeper, particularly in the second side. I read on the recording of this album and saw that the individual members worked on separate tracks as they were being rushed and it really shows, as there are very understated and disconnected from everything else next to them. It becomes very noticeable when a song like Roundabout literally kicks off the tracklist and you have to follow it. Now, I can see the path on their way to how CttE is formatted, as it's just 3 "Roundabouts" in a row. Good listen, but very unbalanced.
3. ZZ Top - Tres Hombres (1973) A++ [6 listens B/B++/A-/A+/A+/A++] I listened to Eliminator and thought it was kinda meh and someone suggested to listen to this, as this is their "signature sound". Thank God I did, because this is probably my favorite Blues Rock album I've heard so far. The choruses are solid and aren't straying too far from the standard Blues layout, but it's the drumming, guitar licks and the solos that won me. That drum lick on the opening of La Grange is so damn sweet. Hell Raiser's solo is so amazing. The guitar riff on Master of Sparks is so catchy. The guitar & bass interplay on Shiek and Precious and Grace are amazing. Honestly, even though the song structures aren't that unique, they did the absolute best with what they had. But if I'm being honest, the 3 additional live tracks at the end put it over the edge for me. The energy is palpable.
4. Joni Mitchell: i. Court and Spark (1974) A [3 listens A/A/A] been awhile since I listened to Joni Mitchell's Blue, but I still catch myself randomly humming verses from My Old Man and Carey, so she's managed to find a place to hide out in the corners of my brain. It's a more jovial Mitchell and a forward looking project, instead of her sulking in her life experiences. A "recollection" of memories with her stories, with how scattered the writing flows. My favorite songs are Help Me, Free Man in Paris, Just Like This Train, Raised On Robbery. Nice album, she's starting to flirt with Jazz, but not as risky as what would come after. Also, Twisted needs to be cut from this album tho; such an odd fit. ii. The Hissing of Summer Lawns (1975) A [3 listens A/A+/A] she's completely single and ready to mingle now with this one; in terms of the music. Playing off the cover art, its sound likes she's taking a stroll through the park, meeting strangers with different instruments and styles, stopping to sit in the grass or dance around with someone and moving on to the next person. This feels more unplanned compared to the others, which helps it create a separate identity from the rest of her work. I do think the songs struggle in the first half, but the second side are much stronger. Shades of Scarlett, Harry's House, The Boho Dance and the title track are my favorites. Also, the music and the combination of instruments on display is way more enthralling than the lyrics and her signature storytelling. It's very good, but there's definitely more complete albums she's made. iii. Hejira (1976) A+ [3 listens B/B++/A+/A+] For some reason, early on this is the album that hit the wall for me, as I i kinda got tired of her not really changing her vocal cadence that much in the first 2 listens. After getting pass that, it's hard not to respect her. I still don't think this album does much too advance her music on a stylistic level, as the previous two have, but fuck, she's so damn great at writing. Furry Sings the Blues, Refuge of the Road, A Strange Boy... just such amazing storytelling in those alone. Also, Song for Sharon is possibly my favorite Joni Mitchell song now; just perfection. Had that slow, casual feel reminiscent of Blue that is rare to come across. I honestly hate albums like this, "growers", as even now, I feel like if I listen to this a few more times, I'd come to admire it more.
5. Iggy Pop: i. The Idiot (1977) A+ [5 listens A-/A/A/A+/A+] I've gone through all of the Stooges albums and now it's time for Iggy Pop's solo material. Both of these were made along side Bowie's Berlin Trilogy and as the producer, his fingerprints are all over it. The desolate guitars ringing, while a very uncommonly low energy Iggy sings over it all. If the first half of Low could be called a trial run for New Wave music, then this album is the trial run for Post Punk. Also, the album art perfectly matches the tone of the album: a blue/black picture in the cold, mysterious darkness of night... with a clueless Iggy just along for the ride lol. This has his signature deadpan style, but none of the Garage Rock energy he's knows for, which imo makes this effort a more respectable leap then he may think. I read he really doesn't "claim" this album, as he sees it as more for a Bowie project, but this album is definitely made better with his inclusion. Yes, the music is the biggest part, but idk if you could just replace Bowie on any of these songs and it'd be instantly better. ii. Lust of Life (1977) B [3 listens B-/B+/B] Wow, the album where he put his "foot down" and went in on making an album that HE wanted, is of course the one I left unimpressed by. Not that it's bad, but it's just a Stooges album with, again, not of that high octane energy. Success and The Passenger are phenomenal songs, but everything else is just your by "the numbers" Rock n Roll standards with an updated Garage spirit than anything as inventive at The Idiot.
6. Warren Zevon - Excitable Boy (1978) B+ [2 listens B+/B+] Genuinely can't remember how he got on my list or even remember if anyone even recommended him. But this is considered his "best album" and plus, outside of Elton John, I haven't really explored many Rock that centers around the Piano. It's a fun album, albeit very crude and satirical at times, it managed to balance it out well. Outside the double take lyrics, none of these songs are too special. I like the nice piano jingle of Werewolves of London and the title track is an interesting song. However, the last few songs tanked it. Okay listen; not everybody is an "album artist", as the singles were the best parts.
7. Wire: i. Chairs Missing (1978) A [4 listens B++/A/A/A] Wire! Pink Flag has managed to become an all time favorite since discovering it and honestly wasn't aware that they actually had other albums just as critically praised as it. As a 2nd album, it comes off very odd, but with hindsight of what follows it, it's easy to see that it's just stuck between two worlds: the world of "Proto"-Post Punk and the extended end of the "concept" of Post Punk. None of their music really feels like "Post Punk" as they never seem to conform to any genre sound. Where Pink Flag feels like a group of teens making Punk with a solid background in music, they weren't out to be "experimental" with the music. Here the Hardcore edge is removed, which allows their artistry to become more visible, but they're moving away from this subversion. Mercy, Practice Makes Perfect, I Am the Fly, Marooned, Outdoor Minor are the good ones. It's still very ahead of its time and still ahead of the curb. ii. 154 (1979) A++ [6 listens A-/A+/A++/A++/A++/A++] sometimes you have to let the thing you want go in order to fully accept the possibility that something can be better. I still desire a Pink Flag 2, but I'll be a fool to dismiss how amazing this is. The extremely eeriely brooding and atmospheric environment is pushing the limits of what Post Punk should even be. A song like Other Window creepy as fuck, due to Graham Lewis' increased vocal role, adding SO much to this tone. Touching Display is how every droning guitar should be used; deep, whole notes and if it was made in the 90s, it'll be my favorite Post Rock song outside of Slint. This is Avant-Post Punk essentially; carving out a deep future path for Gothic Rock to eventually go down. Also, SYNCOPATED RHYTHMS!! There are many bands to do it (often Pop bands), but none do it better with a heavy and Punk sound as they do. Also, compared to Pink Flag, there's SO little fat on here; so yes, it's definitely their best album. The ONLY flaw is the ending sequencing of it... Map should've been the closer and it would be PERFECT. / Colin Newman - A-Z (1980) A [4 listens B++/B/A+/A] Colin Newman's solo project and the "unofficial 4th Wire album" as many of the songs were written while the band was together. And it is obvious the time frame when, as it's more of a 154 Part 2 with how very unattached it is to being "Post Punk". However, similar to Chairs Missing, it's an unfocused album with so many great ideas. This is probably where I'd say it's too experimental, as some of these songs are just too intentionally eccentric. To be frank, I think he's trying too hard to be "weird" to match that energy of 154, but the weirdness was from the tone and how desolate the energy was. Whereas here, the energy is completely up and down and the oddness is in the erratic style than it's ambiance. This one probably has more moments and songs that I love more, but this makes Chairs Missing appear more concise lol. Still very good if you're a Wire fan, even if you can still sense that it's not really a true "Wire" project.
8. Siouxsie and the Banshees: i. Kaleidoscope (1980) B+ [3 listens A/A-/B+] with a different lineup this time around, interested to see how they will develop their sound going into the 80s. And it's kinda as I expected: more diverse instruments, more grooves with in the basslines and leaning on the singing to lead the direction. As the songs go on, they (specifically Siouxsie Sioux) lose their energy. Side 2 has all the best songs, while the first is lacking. Solid listen, but feels they overdid it when they should've kept it simple like on Scream. I respect the attempt and was probably a needed change due to how fast Post Punk was developing, but it could've been done more succinctly. ii. Juju (1981) A+ [2 listens A/A+] Well shit, it's like they already knew my criticisms lol. Finally dynamic songs! Partially why Bauhaus has become my favorite Post Punk/Gothic band, is that the song's layout and rhythms changes throughout a single song and doesn't remain static. Sioux is an all timer in presence, but not so much with singing imo, so she's used so much better as she's highlighted spottingly, particularly in crescendoing over the music. Also, this is heavy as hell; Monitor sounds like a SOAD track... Damn! Honestly, I thought this was going to be a repeat of Kaleidoscope, but man did they knock it out of the park. Fine tuned what they did and allowed themselves to amplify it without losing their identity completely.
9. Bathory: i. Self-Titled (1984) B++ [3 listens B++/B++/B++] the first "official" Black Metal album or EP given its length. Not only are the song structures primitive, but the mixing is as well. I think it works for what it is; something completely new. Even they didn't know what they were doing and it feels that way. The bassline is what seals the deal, as it keeps things very grounded. And the guitar is... well, it lays down the foundation of what Black Metal will become; for better or for worse. The production is really holding this back; it's very poorly mixed. The frayed sound of the guitars looses a lot of edge, which admittedly does make it an easier listen, but so much of its power is lost. Reaper, Raise the Dead, Necromancy, guitar solo on Sacrifice are the highlights. ii. Under the Sign of the Black Mark (1987) A+ [4 listens A+/A/A+/A+] I really love this album. Woman of Dark Desires, Massacre, 13 Candles, Enter the Eternal Fire, with that AWESOME guitar solo in the middle! This is the perfect step up, sound quality included. More songs with distinct identities, loved the pacing throughout and a very "easy" listen (i.e. no overly chaotic guitar solos). That's usually my main critique with most Extreme Metal albums is that songs tend to run into one another and there's very little differences between them all. The riffs are different, the tempo is different and the drumming is changed up on every song. Great album! But similar to all of their other stuff, I just wish it was longer. iii. Blood Fire Death (1988) A [3 listens A/A+/A] Another great album, but it's not a consistent as UtSotBM. I enjoyed the acoustic sections (that would later influence viking metal) which raises it up some points. It was an unexpected skill I didn't think they were capable of. However, this album is one that's trying to be two things: it does one really well and just "sorta" touches on the other one. It would've been great to see a better balance between these terrific Black Metal sections and these Viking Metal acoustic ones, giving equal time to each. I hope they would find a better balance in a future album, but I'm only listening to these 3. All were good listens and held up much better for pioneers of a genre.
10. The Pogues - Rum, Sodomy & the Lash (1985) A [4 listens A+/A/A/A] a long awaited listen after seeing so much about this. It doesn't really come off as "Punk" but as legit, Irish/Celtic shanties. The novelty wears off after a few listens though. It's very genuine in its execution and doesn't come off as gimmicky at all. It's very 2 note: uptempo or slow wailing songs. Waltzing Matilda and I'm a Man You Don't Meet Everyday are by far the best songs here, with Dirty Old Town, Wild Cats and Sally MacLennane in that 2nd tier below. Really good and takes itself very serious.
11. Butthole Surfers - Locust Abortion Technician (1987) C+ [2 listens B-/C+] speaking of talking itself seriously.... here's the complete opposite. It's very VERY hard to actually get into this as it's just absurdist for absurdism sake as most of it is just so empty. There are a few sparks of musical inspirations that show they are capable of something more serious, but they seem to enjoy being nonsensical over making compelling music. It doesn't necessarily have to be serious satire or just cut and dry (I love Ween), but there has to be a point to this madness or else it just comes off as simply... madness.
12. Queensryche - Operation: Mindcrime (1988) A+ [2 listens A/A+] Sounds like a "Heavy" Hair Metal band. The story is simply "okay" and that's being nice, as this was way over hyped, that I expected something like a To Pimp a Butterfly of themes and stories intersecting. This is like a Hair Metal version of the Wall. It feels more like a musical than a concept album with a linear story, which loses stream after Breaking the Silence. It is very melodramatic especially in the second half, but it was the 80s... However, it has Spreading the Disease so all of that is a wash; we don't got guys hitting high notes like that anymore, which you gotta admit Hair Metal nailed that with perfection. A++ music but A concept, so right in the middle.
13. Coroner: i. No More Color (1989) A- [3 listens A+/A/A-] first non big 4 Thrash. I don't know how popular they were beyond Europe, but they were pioneers in the Technical Thrash Metal (sometimes called Prog Thrash). The main issue is that all the songs run into one another, without any significant parts to either of them. They set their songs around the guitar solos (which can be unmemorable at best and very messy at worse), which furthers mushes everything together. This is why I tend to value pacing in music, especially in Heavy Metal. There's plenty of good riffs to be found, but you have to sludge your way to find them. ii. Mental Vortex (1991) A+ [2 listens A+/A+] great follow-up. The guitar is still leading every song, but it's not fully taking control over the identity of every one. The drumming and the shifts in the music (similar to Metallica's 80s work) better distinguishes each track, making every phrase more dynamic. It's pretty good, but admittedly the She's So Heavy cover puts it just over to be an A+; better than the original because its fully realized metal and ends 30 seconds sooner :p
14. Swervedriver - Mezcal Head (1993) A++ [4 listens A++/A++/A++/A++] a Grunge album in Shoegaze clothing. The music is very unassuming with its generic 90s vocals, but that's how that Shoegaze sound sneaks up on you. The reverb on every guitar note constantly adds texture to every moment, almost drowning you with its heaviness. And THEN, that's when the vocals start to shine; like warm light of a log cabin in the middle of a heavy, blinding blizzard. Also, Duress is up there along side Venus in Furs as those all timers I know I'll forever be listening to for decades to come. Phenomenal album, highly recommend! ii. Raise (1991) A- [2 listens A/A-] literally decided to listen to this days before finishing up as I didn't know this album was also a landmark in Shoegaze (maybe moreso than MH). This is the album shows that less discussed bridge from Noise Rock to Shoegaze, as so many places only consider Shoegaze as a direct evolution of Dream Pop. This is a true Alternate Rock sound, with heavy guitar distortion; but not to the extent to what Shoegaze is really known as. This is closer to Dinosaur Jr or Sonic Youth than MBV or Slowdive. That aside, its pretty good for a debut. The melodies aren't as great as MH, but a few songs like Son of Mustang Ford, Sandblasted and Sunset were great foundation points of what would follow. Wouldn't say it's a must listen, but it's a good entry.
15. Kyruss - Welcome to Sky Valley (1994) A [3 listens A-/A/A] Josh Homme from his original band and the "birth" of the Desert Rock genre. Solid album, I like the atmosphere it creates as a laid back, background album. Complete opposite of QQTSA in where it's like wandering down a barren "desert", instead of a isolated highway listening to a radio station. It works. Nothing here will jump out at you, but it's very clear that that's not the intent with it. Idk if I'd say it's a must listen, as I can see it being called uneventful. But it's a good listen if you want some background music with some grit to it.
16. Swans - Soundtracks for the Blind (1996) A+ [2 listens A+/A+] the last Swans I'm going to listen to as I didn't care much for To Be Kind, so I imagine I'm not gonna like any of their other stuff. This is in a different direction, where it doesn't even seem to be "music" at times. This makes GY!BE appear accessible in comparison. This is like flicking through the channels on a TV in this weird, strange motel in the middle of nowhere. A lot of dull, drawn out moments that actually work this time around, as it helps paint a better scene of this eldritch-like world it's in. If it had more of those spontaneous, random fully formed tracks, I'll love it more, however their sporadic appearances make them more special when they're coming out of nowhere. This is rare project where I feel that more listens would lower my love for it, as that unpredictability of it is its greatest strength.
17. Duster - Stratosphere (1998) A [3 listens A/A/A] VERY lofi with its low quality mixing. It's the pacing of Shoegaze without the distortion and the blasé attitude of Slacker Rock without the traditional song structure, to a point where it's closest to Post Rock but still has that character of your favorite 90s Indie Rock band (I'm also lost as well). RYM calls it Slowcore, which I find kinda cool. This is like if depression was an album; all the ebbs and flows of your mood slowly dropping, staying at a low point, that occasional optimism and right back into that shallow pit of somber, where you managed to make a somewhat cozy cottage due to you being there for so many times. Slowest part of a Built to Spill album, with a budget of $18 for production, bring a singer with possible self-esteem issues and tell them to make a 50 min lullaby to get a shoegaze-loving kid to sleep. I'm all out of metaphors.
18. Gustavo Cerati - Bocanada (1999) A+ [3 listens A+/A+/A+] another album I can't quite remember how it got on my list, but Trip Hop is another one of those genres that outside of Massive Attack and Portishead that I have very little experience with. Even though the lyrics are in a foreign language, it didn't hurt the overall experience of the album (it have may limited it being better though). Melancholy in his voice and the music, contrasting with the Trip Hop style. Tabu, Rio Babel, and Pasco Immoral are the ones that I recommend checking out if the runtime can be off-putting to some; but it's well worth the journey. Wonderful album that I'm glad I came across.
19. Immolation - Close to a World Below (2000) A [4 listens A+/A/A/A] Better than most Death Metal. Love that the vocalist is slow with his pace (he was great!), along with a solid and steady guitar riffs. I really dislike that drum sound (banging on the toms), but that's a hurdle it feels like you have to overcome to really get into the genre itself. Any of the first 4 songs and Lost Passion are worth checking out.
20. The White Stripes - White Blood Cells (2001) B+ [3 listens B++/B++/B+] I get why they're labeled Blues Rock. Maybe I didn't notice it before, but he sings like John Lennon, where he constantly on that upper octave (which is well out of their ranges) and they crack notes a lot. It's charming to a certain degree, but I don't think it really works with this heavy style. My biggest issue with it is that it's doing multiple things at once, instead of separately. The loud songs are too understated, as Union or Offend should be a bigger, hard, fast paced songs but instead have slow sections. They have this heavy guitar for no reason. We're going to Be Friends and This Protector being tender songs, when it's full acoustic and has a consistent theme, further adds to the lack of uniformity. Also, songs rarely change/switch up, which normally isn't that big of a issue, but when they're all 3+ minutes long, they all drag on. I know what a "perfect version" sounds like from them, so a lot of missteps feel more obvious than if it was blind to me, but I'm not super invested in this album, even with the number of listens.
21. Muse: i. Absolution (2003) A++ [5 listens A++/A+/A++/A++/A++] what if Radiohead chose to stay in 1997? What is it with these Post BritPop bands with incredible sophomore releases? Similarly to Coldplay, I didn't care much for Origin of Symmetry and had low expectations going into this. I don't know if I'm being too generous as only about 3 or 4 of these songs are really strong, however none are what I'd consider skips. This album is so damn tight in its tracklist. Some of the best collections of hooks and bridges ever. The singing isn't always on point, but the way they nail down the perfect formula for every song overshadows most of their faults in not being too special in any particular category. ii. Black Holes and Revelations (2006) A++ [3 listens A/A++/A++] Back to back bangers?! This one is probably my favorite, especially with how strong the second half of the album is. All the songs are great, but aren't straight retreads of what Absolution brought with the varied added instruments. Again, nothing they're doing is otherworldly, but they execute the structures of all of the songs so perfectly, that you tend to ignore the mediocrity of the band members' skills individually. They're the sum of their parts; heavily carried by their collaboration with the songwriting. These two albums are BARLEY A++ though... so if I give these two A++s, then I'm going to retroactively make Ok Computer a "Masterpiece", because it doesn't sit right with me with them being on the same level. Great pair of albums; y'all sleeping on Muse?
22. My Chemical Romance - Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge (2004) B+ [3 listens B+/B++/B+] okay, this is emo, like legit emo pop. TBP had a bigger theatrical element infused in its identity, whereas this has all of its personality in its lyrics. And the lyrics are very... tbh cringe. Songs go in too long; great choruses and lyrics, but having the same structure over and over is too repetitive for me to really get into it. It's very melodramatic, particularly in the singing, which at least does make it a compelling listen. I just wish the music followed suit as well. He is also too frantic in his performance, where on TBP it is limited to a few songs. Maybe this is the line where it is too raw.
23. Joanna Newsom: i. YS (2006) B- [2 listen A-/B-] DENSE AS FUCK. Makes Bob Dylan look like an haiku writer. Each song is a storybook, that requires heavy attention. Music itself is not too impressive outside its complexity in the instrumentation. This non-stop, continuous nature of her singing is the major turn off. To a point where it's very hard to follow any story she's trying to paint and the entire thing feels tiring. I do like the harp playing and the orchestral spurts that brighten phrases, but that's the only positive I can come up with. Big disappointment and kinda soured me on her going forward. However, I decided on a whim to give her one more try and.... ii. The Milk Eyed Mender (2004) Masterpiece [3 listens A++/MP/MP] being majorly disappointed with YS, I decided to try her more stripped down Debut before completely writing her off, as the albums following YS are very long listens. And it turns out I actually enjoy this much more; matter of fact, I can't find any flaws within it: ZERO. Yes, her voice is even more of a sore thumb when most of the attention is on it (those harmonies on Peach Plum and Pear sound like Nightmare Fuel tbh). But if I can call Blonde on Blonde a perfect album, I can give a pass to her voice. Her flow in the songs are SOOO much better, that it makes YS looks even worse in that department. The harp playing isn't grand, but subdued in line with her wandering through each song; ebbing and flowing along with her energy in each track. Her cadence and timbre in how she sings is second to none her.
24. The Beach Boys: Brian Wilson Presents Smile (2005) A- [2 listens A/A-] most of my thoughts on in the Sessions review, as his worned voice hampered the album. I will say this imo would've bombed in 1967; baroque ballads, no rock lol. It would've kicked started Progressive Rock about 5 years sooner, but it wouldn't have made such a huge splash considering the trend all of music was already headed in at that point. This feels more like a live album / The Smile Sessions (2011) A++ [5 listens A/A/A+/A+/A++] BWPS felt like a monkey Brian needed to finally get off his back. A personal album made by Brian himself, whereas BWPS kinda feels like the "gift" to the world that SMiLE was promised as. This still has that youthful, tender energy of creation, where it's unabashedly open with its oddities. Kind of like how Beach Boys Today! was a left turn in their careers, this would've been that for Pet Sounds. BWPS was trying to meet SMiLE's high expectations; this is more honest. The harmonies are so warm, with the perfect blend of pathos. There's more playful instruments in the background that make the whole thing feel more playful. A few of the mixes aren't done well - "Wistful" is the best way to describe this project. Good vibrations finally "fits" inside an album; we can all die in peace now. It's too baroque to be really accessible and too Prog to have real standout hit singles. But as a confined experience, BY FAR the best the Beach Boys have made... or uhm would've made.
25. Sweet Trip - You Will Never Know Why (2009) A++ [4 listens A-/A++/MP/A++] ...I wish I didn't look up the background of this band before I listened to this. I went into Velocity Design and Comfort fully blind and while it's not the exact style I'm personally into, it's still so unique in what it brought, that I still think of it fondly. That is until I learned about one of the band members. The thing people don't understand about the "separate the art from the artist" thing is that is isn't because of a sense of "morally superiority", it's that every time I listen or consume the art.... I can't NOT think of them and what happened. I enjoyed this album a lot, but most of my time listening, my mind was clearly distracted. I was dying for them to go fully into the Electronic-Jangle Pop space they only would briefly explore on VDC. Valerie Cooper's singing is still SO awe inspiring and freezes you in time, easily the greatest part of the music. The only flaw is that it has only a handful of jingles that really grip me. Also, no entire song pulls me in the whole run, it's only really the chorus and occasionally the transitions between tracks (which are outstanding btw) which was also an issue with the VDC. If it was also a tad bit heavier in certain moments, that would've helped me overlook a lot of this minor flaws. Phenomenal album and perfect follow up, but it's gonna take some time before I can revisit this, as it's hard to mentally disassociate the individual from the music while it's so fresh in my mind.
Bonus Albums: (shorter reviews)
• Yellow Magic Orchestra - Solid State Survivor (1979) A [3 listens B/A/A] colorful and joyful. Sounds like this was the singular inspiration of every Nintendo soundtrack from the 80s and 90s lol. Liked the slow parts, but the bouncy songs are very fun to listen to. Low stakes but still aged wonderfully.
• Gary Numen - The Pleasure Principal (1979) B [2 listens B+/B] futuristic, yet undefined. Weird vocal style is kinda weird, not everyone can pull it off like David Byrne or Devo. Isn't jovial enough like YMO nor is breaking any new ground with the layout like Kraftwerk to compensate for its simplicity. Cars was a nice surprise tho.
• Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark - Architecture and Morality (1981) A- [3 listens B++/A-/A-] finally a legit "Pop" singer. Synths are used as an aesthetic and not a crutch, now starting to feel like a more modern (or 80s I guess) style. Joan of Arc and Souvenir are my favorites. Good, but nothing too incredible.
• Tears for Fears - Songs from the Big Chair (1985) A++ [2 listens A++/A++] holy hell, way way better than I expected it would be. I knew the two popular songs, but they were more denser and bigger than I assumed they were. The production here is so lush and wide, immediately obvious they were very "familiar" with the technology by then. I will be adding more of their albums for more detailed reviews on a future list. (Prob the Hurting and Seeds)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9Oy8ArcpUI&t=445s
Several years ago I did a Let's Play of an old Danish FMV game named "Blackout". In the second video - linked above - an in-game jukebox plays four short snippets of songs from obscure bands. I have identified the first two songs and added them to a spotify playlist. The final two songs still elude me, eight years later.
According to the credits for the game, the songs are "RedRum from their promo CD Redrum" and "Yetis on Fire from their CD Yetis on Fire".
Redrum
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDgXjegsCPM
https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Redrum/3540341871
Redrum appears to have been a Danish Metal band who split up after producing two demo CDs. I cannot find any way to listen to those CDs.
Yetis on Fire
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxyyEHDvgnE
A search for Yetis on Fire does confirm their existence, but I can't find any mention of their CD, nor any place to listen to their music.
http://www.1000fryd.dk/index.php?ufo=archive
According to this calendar from Café 1000FRYD in Aarhus, Yetis on Fire played there in February 1995.
http://2018.spotfestival.dk/spots-band-history-en/index.html
Later that year, Yetis on Fire played on SPOT Festival 1995.
Last time I tried, I also managed to find a short segment from a Danish music magazine reviewing a demo tape by Yetis on Fire, but now I can't find that any longer and don't remember the name of the magazine. It's possible that Yetis on Fire only ever made a demo CD that didn't get a proper release.
That's it. I've been trying for eight years, so if anyone can help me track down those songs, I would be much obliged :)

** ALL WEEKEND (FRI 5/10 - SUN 5/12 *\*
Mother's Day Afternoon Tea Snapdragon Tea, 127 Harvard Dr. SE What better way to celebrate Mother's Day than with a tea party? We welcome kids of all ages, and provide children’s menus upon request. Special gluten free/vegan/vegetarian menus available upon request. Reservations are required and can be made through our website. Tea party cost is $18.50 for the children's menu and $34.95 for the full 3-course tea party

• Fri 10 AM - 2 PM
• Sat and Sun 10 AM - 4 PM

Arsenic and Old Lace presented by Rio Rancho Players Community Theater St. Francis Episcopal Church, 2903 Cabezon Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho Tickets are $20 for seniors, students, educators, and military personnel. General Admission is $25. We also offer a group rate for parties of 6 or more, for $18 a ticket. All tickets include one dessert and one beverage

• Fri 2 PM and 7:30 PM
• Sat and Sun 7:30 PM only

** BOTH SAT 5/11 AND SUN 5/12 *\*
Sat AND Sun 8:30 AM - 3 PM Spring Garden Festival Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria Rd. NW The festival will feature live acoustic music, craft vendors, guided walks, Discovery Pond Open House and presentations about the local plants and animals. Just in time for Spring planting! Garden Plant Sale. Locally grown, Great prices, Cash sales only. While you are at the park, check out the Nature Shop, managed by the Friends of the Rio Grande Nature Center. Purchases are tax-free and help to support the Park: books & field guides for adults & children ~ T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats ~ posters ~ jewelry ~ toys & games ~ gifts and arts & crafts by local and US artists. Day-Use Fee: Cost $3 per vehicle (exact cash or check) Friends of the RGNC permit holders and NM State Parks annual permit holders enter free with valid permit displayed
Sat 12 - 8 PM AND Sun 11 AM - 5 PM Let's Celebrate Mom Pinspiration, 6271 Riverside Plaza Ln. NW, Ste D1 Let’s celebrate Mom, dad or that special mother figure in your life! Looking for something fun and different to do with mom on Mother’s day? Why not spend some quality time with that very special mother figure in your life? Crafting together will bring lasting memories for years to come! All crafts, splatter, food and drinks will be 20% off for your entire group. We thought this would be a great way to honor and celebrate that special someone. A free non-alcoholic mimosa for mom or dad is our treat for them. We strongly encourage reservations, especially for Sunday. We are opening early on Sunday and closing an hour earlier so we can spend time with our families as well
Sat 7 - 9 PM AND Sun 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM Mother's Day: Chicago Flix Brewhouse, 3236 La Orilla Rd. NW Join us for a special Mother's Day screening of the timeless classic, CHICAGO. Treat your mom to a night of glitz and glamour as you sing along to hits like 'All That Jazz' and 'Cell Block Tango.' This event is sure to be a roaring good time with a glass of complimentary wine and an in-theater raffle! (tickets)
** Fri 5/10 *\*
Fri 11 AM - 9 PM Last Day of Teacher Appreciation Week D.H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro, 901 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, Ste B-100 Let's raise a glass to the real MVPs of education – our incredible teachers! From inspiring minds to shaping futures, they do it all with passion and dedication. Thank you for your tireless efforts, unwavering support, and endless encouragement. Here's to celebrating the superheroes in our classrooms every day! Dine with us and show your school ID for a special $10 thank you card
Fri 6 PM World Ballet Series: Swan Lake Kiva Auditorium, 401 2nd St. NW Swan Lake, the ballet of all ballets, will be performed one night only as a part of the World Ballet Series. See the iconic Dance of the Little Swans, count the 32 fouettés performed by Odile, and immerse yourself in magical Tchaikovsky's music. The production will feature richly detailed, hand-painted sets as well as over 150 radiant costumes that bring fresh representation to this timeless classic. World Ballet Series is a unique project that attracts many international artists and is composed of renowned professional dancers representing over ten countries who are united by a passion for entertaining audiences and enriching classical ballet traditions through brilliant, critically-acclaimed new productions of timeless ballet classics. Audience: For ages 5 & over. Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (including 20-minute intermission) (tickets)
Fri 7 – 11:30 PM The Mango Cakes w/ Nosotros Sister, 407 Central Ave NW Get ready for an unforgettable night of music with The Mango Cakes and Nosotros! Join us for a spectacular show featuring the infectious pop sounds of The Mango Cakes and the sensational salsa rhythms of Albuquerque's own, Nosotros. Don't miss this dynamic musical fusion that promises to get your feet moving and your heart singing (tickets)
Fri 7:30 PM Doug Lawrence's Nuevo Mexicanos Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale Blvd. SE Albuquerque’s own multi-Grammy-winning tenor saxophonist Doug Lawrence, the featured soloist with The Count Basie Orchestra for the past 25+ years, returns to Outpost with his New Mexican bandmates – Steve Figueroa, piano; Paul Gonzales, trumpet; Milo Jaramillo, bass; Ricky Carrido, congas and David Flores, drums – the group he has dubbed his Nuevo Mexicanos band. Always adding a new twist to their performances, for this show, they will be playing new material and featuring two special guests - "The Queen of New Mexico Salsa," Jackie Zamora with Liza Flores singing backup to Jackie, along with their signature hard bop and Latin jazz tunes they are known for. Besides his work with the Count Basie Orchestra, Doug Lawrence has also worked and recorded with a veritable “who’s who of jazz” including Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, Sarah Vaughan, Joe Williams, Nancy Wilson, Joey DeFrancesco, Aretha Franklin and many others. He continues to tour and record with many of today’s top names in jazz (tickets)
Fri 7:30 PM Freud's Talking Head Historic Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave NE Pink Freud and Start Making Sense team up for a night of funk, rock, spectacle, dancing and friendship, while we all celebrate Samantha and Tony's and all the other May birthdays! There will be booty shaking, lasers, too many cocktails maybe, and a night of fun to remember! (tickets)
Fri 8 PM Blue Lab Comedy Night! Brew Lab 101, 3301 Southern Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho Come out for our first outdoor "blue" comedy show of the season! The local comics will be bringing the thunder outside in the Beer Garden, and you won't want to miss it! We'll have the usual great selection of adult beverages and food trucks, but leave the kiddos at home for this one! No cover, but 21+ please!
Fri 8 PM Live Salsa with Son Como Son Juno, 1501 1st St. NW Dance to live Salsa with Son Como Son, hosted by DJ Solovino. Authentic Cuban Salsa with Son Como Son on Juno's patio. 21+. Come early and get a pizza or another item from Juno's menu; kitchen stays open until 9:45p (tickets)
Fri 8 – 11 PM Orange Lala Vinyl Club Spins Out Tractor Brewing, 122 Tulane Dr. SE @ the_orange_lala vinyl club with Biscodots, DJ Boggle, Dusty Breaks, and night_cruiser spinning an eclectic assortment of all-vinyl tracks and curating wild videos for the night
Fri 8 – 11 PM Goth Night & Dark Market: Summer Goth Edition Tractor Brewing - Wells Park, 1800 4th St. NW We're celebrating summer as it was intended to be celebrated, with Goth music. Time to break out your Doc Martins, black nail polish, eyeliner, choker, and red lip stick because we're hosting a night of beautiful music for you dark hearts. DJ Riff Rat and DJ Batboy will be spinning one the ones and twos, Pepe El Monstrito will be providing sound, and Spectral Youth will be featuring some amazing local vendors
** Sat 5/11 *\*
Sat 8 AM – 12 PM Downtown Growers' Market Robinson Park, 810 Copper Ave NW The Downtown Growers' Market happens every Saturday! This vibrant community event connects local farmers, growers, artisans, wellness makers, and hot food vendors with the local community from mid-April to early-November. Bring friends / family or come solo to enjoy fresh food made on sight, a variety of seasonal produce, unique arts and crafts, live music, and special programming all in the heart of downtown
Sat 9 AM – 12 PM Bosque Restoration Field Day Tingley Beach, Tingley Dr. SW Help us restore Bosque habitat, Yerba Mansa, and other native plants. Our restoration work includes the removal of invasive non-native Ravenna Grass from the understory along with the replanting and reseeding of native grasses, herbs, and shrubs. These events are open to all members of the community so bring your family and friends. Work takes place at our Albuquerque restoration site located along Tingley Drive, south of Central. Park in the lot at the south end of all the fishing ponds, which is .8 miles south of Central. Wear protective long sleeve clothing and bring plenty of water as well as work gloves and a shovel, if you have them. City of Albuquerque Open Space will be there to train our work crew and provide gloves and tools for anyone who needs them. Please RSVP so we know how many volunteers to expect. Thank you!
Sat 9 AM – 12 PM Spinning at the Market Robinson Park, 810 Copper Ave NW Meet us at the center lawn at the Downtown Growers Market. Come and see us, chat with us, or bring something soft to put your wheel on and a chair if you want to spin with us. If planning on spinning, please RSVP through the website
Sat 9 AM – 1 PM Mother’s Day Sip and Shop Rust is Gold Coffee, 3732 Eubank Blvd. NE Join us for our 5th Annual Mother’s Day Market, featuring local vendors with Mother’s Day inspired gift ideas including: • Flower Bouquets • Greeting Cards • Jewelry • Baked goods • Music (Vinyl Albums). Coffee Drink specials for Mom too!
Sat 10 AM – 2 PM Paws & Pedals: A Pet Adoption Day with Cross My Paws Animal Rescue Bike In Coffee, 949 Montoya Rd. NW Don't miss out on puppy cuddles, coffee, and the chance to meet your new best friend!
Sat 10 AM – 3 PM Shop Local Market Cabezon Park and Community Center, 2307 Cabezon Blvd. SE Rio Rancho If you are a local vendor, come out to Cabezon Park’s local market! We support all things local! Everything must be handmade, or homegrown. No franchise companies. No resale of items. No political booths. No prepared food from Big Box Stores! No premade items re-branded and resold as homemade! No products containing non-sustainable oils. No products containing preservatives, colorants, etcetera, that are artificial, chemical or contain carcinogenics. No sale of weapons or alcohol. Please call the Cabezon Community Center at 505-892-4499 for more information. No admission fee for shoppers
Sat 11 AM The Mama Bear Market Boxing Bear Brewing, 8420 Firestone Ln. NE Get ready for a fun-filled day of shopping, eating, and celebrating your Mama Bear! Join us to explore a variety of unique vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious treats. Whether you're a mom looking for some well-deserved pampering or just looking for a fun day out, this event is perfect for everyone. We will also have a FREE photobooth available to help capture a special moment for your mama bear. Don't miss out on this opportunity to support local businesses and connect with the community. This event is FREE and open to the whole family
Sat 11 AM – 12 PM Animal Tales with the ABQ BioPark International District Library, 7601 Central Ave NE Dive into the captivating world of animals with "Animal Tales" presented by the ABQ BioPark! Join us for a delightful reading session featuring an animal-themed book. Experience the magic as the BioPark brings along real animals and biofacts that connect to the story, giving kids an exciting opportunity to meet these creatures up close! Don't miss this engaging and educational adventure for young animal enthusiasts!
Sat 11 AM - 3 PM Lemonade Day Albuquerque Old Town Plaza Join us for Lemonade Day, where young entrepreneurs showcase their business skills by running lemonade stands across the city! From budgeting to marketing, they'll be serving up delicious drinks while learning valuable lessons. Mark your calendars to support our budding business leaders!
Sat 11 AM – 3 PM Multicultural Arts Festival 13200 Wenonah Ave SE Last year, the festival featured around 30 artists, outdoor activities for the family, food trucks with a range of options, and resource tables for the community. This year, the City is looking forward to building upon the success of the event and creating more opportunities for artists and families to come together to celebrate the talent within our community
Sat 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM Adoption Event Rio Bravo Brewing, 1912 2nd St. NW Join us and our BernCo pets for an adoption event. Come find your new best friend! All adoptions include rabies vaccine, spaying/neutering, and microchips. Did we mention there is no adoption fee? Adopt, don't shop!
Sat 12 PM Mosaic Bird Ornament Rise and Shine Mercantile, 8208 Menaul Blvd. NE $20 all materials included (no refunds). We will practice making a coaster first and then we will make an ornament. Very beginner class. Must stop in and register and pay for class first
Sat 12 – 1:30 PM Mother's Day Cookie Class Poulin Marketplace, 8600 Pan American Fwy NE We'll have an afternoon of fun with friends and partners (or come solo and make new friends). I will walk you through decorating these three beautiful cookies. This class will not cover outlining and flooding skills. Instead, we will work on leaf techniques and floral techniques using two piping tips. (Piping tips will be provided but will not be taken home) Tickets include: -Drink from the venue -Personalized cookie in a different flavor -Materials for class (Cookies, icing, etc.) -Guided instruction from a professional cookie decorator -Giveaways -A percentage of every ticket is donated to Shine, a local organization working in local schools
Sat 12 – 5 PM Mothers Day Market Bow & Arrow Brewing, 608 McKnight Ave NW Mother’s Day Market featuring fine art, home decor, sweet treats, clay works, pottery, flowers, jewelry, & eats by Four Corners Navajo Tacos!
Sat 12 – 10 PM Party In the Park Roosevelt Park, 500 Spruce St. SE Line Up: 12p Moxie, 1p Vic, 2p Number 9, 3p Scin.Til.Late, 4p Walter, 5p B12, 6p the Rev, 7p Sin Seven, 8p Swift Money, 9p 8th Wonder
Sat 1 – 3 PM Basics of Distilling Class Southwest Grape & Grain, 3401 Candelaria Blvd. NE A beginner level class covering the distilling process and the ingredients that go into various spirits. Enjoy some good craft spirits? Always wanted to make your own? In addition to discussing the various types of spirits and the ingredients that go into them, we will cover the basic distillation process, various types of stills, and everything else you will need to start making your own whiskey, rum, vodka, or moonshine! (tickets)
Sat 1 – 4 PM Birthday Party for Sebas w/Mala Maña! A Kid-Friendly Brewery Fundraiser to Fight Childhood Cancer Canteen Brewhouse, 2381 Aztec Rd. NE Join us in celebrating our sweet Sebas' 5th birthday! • Canteen Brewhouse will generously be donating $1 per beer, wine, cider or root beer sold during the event! So come thirsty! • Live music by Mala Maña (1:30-2:45PM) and DJ Pancho! • Kid-friendly activities. • Buy Besos for Sebas Merchandise. • Join Chuy Martinez in singing "Happy Birthday" to Sebas and make a donation. This Mother's Day, help us spread hope and make a difference in the fight against Myoepithelial Carcinoma (MEC). If you are unable to join in person you can still send Sebas a "beso" (a kiss) with a contribution to the "100k Besos for Sebas" Facebook fundraiser. All proceeds will benefit cureMEC to support cancer research for Sebas
Sat 1 – 5 PM Carne Asada Sabado! Bike Day Hangout! 1119 Candelaria Rd. NW Your Rebels just want y'all to come hang out! It's a Rebel event, so who knows what can and will happen? We do know that there will be Fun, Drink, Camaraderie, and a Food Truck. Red Taco Shop will be there serving Carne Asada Specials (Asada Nachos, Asada Tacos, Asada Quesadillas and Asada Bowls). Please bring your Friends and your whole Family. More information will be added as The Rebels figure out what they want to do. They can be quite secretive at times lol. Remember, it's all about the cause
Sat 2 – 4 PM Pre-Mother's Day Show Sawmill Market, 1909 Bellamah Ave NW Burque Jazz Bandits are Celebrating all the mommas at Sawmill! This event is outdoors, so be prepared for the sunshine! Tips appreciated! Bandit merch will be available for purchase!
Sat 2 – 6 PM Birds of a Feather Fundraiser Bosque Brewing Cottonwood Public House, 10250 Cottonwood Park Dr. NW Join us and the amazing folks at Birds of a Feather Parrot Rescue of New Mexico for a special fundraiser! Meet several exotic parrots and learn all about their incredible mission! They will be raffling awesome prizes and a percentage of drink sales during the event will be donated to BoaF
Sat 3 – 10 PM Pints for Parenthood Marble Brewery, 111 Marble Ave NW Join Dar a Luz Birth & Health Center for our Pints for Parenthood event at Marble Brewery Downtown! Donations for Dar a Luz are welcome at the door. Along with Marble's renowned libations and food, we'll have live music from incredible local artists: All Thicc, Red Light Cameras, Willa Jay, Sweet Roll, Sun Sounds, Trillbot. Dar a Luz Birth and Health Center is the only nationally accredited & state licensed freestanding birth and health center in NM. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic prenatal care for birthing people, reproductive health services and a safe alternative to hospital birth for birthing people and their families
Sat 4 PM Make-A-Wish Sand Volleyball Tournament Charlie’s Sandbox, 4335 Paseo del Norte NE Come support the Make-A-Wish Foundation! We will have multiple snack bar items and prizes for 1st and 2nd place! $20 per person. 2-6 players per team (sign up)
Sat 4 – 5 PM Concerts @ the Library: The Enchanters Taylor Ranch Library, 5700 Bogart St. NW Join us for Concerts @ the Library featuring The Enchanters! Experience the magic as this ten-member choral ensemble takes you on a musical journey through the decades, singing favorites from the 30s to the 90s in beautiful four-part harmony. With a diverse repertoire that includes holiday and patriotic numbers, The Enchanters have been delighting audiences for over four years. Don't miss their enchanting performance at the Taylor Ranch Library, the latest installment of our monthly concert series - all for FREE!
Sat 5 PM Mother's Day Celebration Osuna Nursery, 501 Osuna Rd. NE Whether you're searching for a heartfelt gift, indulging in a little self-care, or simply creating cherished memories with your loved ones, Osuna Nursery is the place to be. As you browse our blooms from beautiful ornamental trees to attractive annuals you'll enjoy: • Live music from award-winning cellist Ryan Smith 11am-1pm •Scenic photo opportunities •Osuna University Residential Irrigation with Chris Schlouski of Dekker Perich Sabatini from 11am to 12pm. There is no gift more meaningful than the gift of life. Come find the perfect pairing of plants and pottery to be a personalized reminder of how much she matters for years to come
Sat 6 – 9 PM Annual Bach Society Concert Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, 8700 Alameda Blvd. NE It’s nearly time once again for our annual Bach Society performances. The New Mexico Bach Chorale and the New Mexico Bach Orchestra will perform J.S. Bach’s full St. John Passion. Tickets for the performance can be purchased online or by calling Hold My Ticket at 877-466-3404. Day-of tickets may be purchased at the door with cash or check
Sat 6 – 9 PM Gone Country Saturdays with DJ Clout Ponderosa Brewing, 1761 Bellamah Ave NW The evening starts with complimentary dance lessons at 5 pm, followed by family-friendly entertainment until 9 pm. Get ready to groove and have a blast!
Sat 6:30 – 9:30 PM Mother's Day Dance Skidmore's Holiday Bowl, 7515 Lomas Blvd. NE Join us for a night of bowling, food, drinks, and a Mother's Day dance to celebrate everything they do for us
Sat 7 PM Mother’s Day Concert Bandido Restaurante, 2128 Central Ave SE A special Mother’s Day concert with Micky Cruz. $10 cover, all ages
Sat 7 – 9 PM First Floor Highway Tractor Brewing, 118 Tulane Dr. SE ABQ band blending original music & reimagined covers w. an 80s inspirited New Wave / Post Punk sound
Sat 7:30 – 9 PM Studio Night Out Dirty Bourbon Dance Hall & Saloon, 9800 Montgomery Blvd., Ste 4 Get your boots ready because we're going out! Come join us for a fun night out on the town. Come as you are and get your groove on. It's a great chance to put those dancing skills to good use. Feel free to invite anyone to come join the party. This event is free other than the cover at The Dirty Bourbon. There's no cover if you arrive before 8PM. Let us know if you have any questions at either 505-750-0011 or 520-261-1223
Sat 8 PM Emo Nite Live Bama's 1865, 6007 Osuna Rd NE Welcome to the electrifying world of Emo Nite Live! Hailing from the vibrant landscapes of Albuquerque, we are a dynamic band dedicated to bringing the spirited sounds of pop-punk and emo music to life, coupled with a unique karaoke experience that lets YOU be the lead singer! Signups to sing start at 8pm. Get there early if you want to participate. No door cover. 21+ only. Come and check out Albuquerque's newest southern style restaurant. Hear or sing some of your favorite pop-punk and emo anthems with us
Sat 8 – 10 PM Hops & Dreams: Star Wars Edition Tractor Brewing - Wells Park, 1800 4th St. NW Join us in a galaxy far, far away… The Desert Darlings return with Raqzia for an epic Star Wars belly dance show! Free show, but tips appreciated!
Sat 8:30 PM – 1 AM SABOR Latin Night - Saturdays with guest DJ ITALIA Bama's 1865, 6007 Osuna Rd. NE DJ Gabriel Goza will be serving you the saucy Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue y Mas! Ample Parking, Safe Environment, Beautiful Venue, Good Food, Good Music, Good Vibes. 21+ / $10 cover
Sat 9 PM Back in the Saddle 90's Country Cover Band Backstage at Revel, 4720 Alexander Blvd. NE Doors open at 8 pm, no cover. Show starts at 9 pm! All Ages are welcome! We will have giveaways! Come prepared to two-step and country dance to the 90's country music you love!
** Sun 5/12 ** -- Mother's Day
Sun 10 – 11 AM Yoga & Tea Lost Cultures Tea Bar, 1761 Bellamah Ave NW, Ste C Starting in May, we will be doing our event EVERY SUNDAY. It's a special space where you can release what no longer serves you and rejuvenate your soul. Join us for a truly enriching experience. The first 3 Sunday's will be with @ yoga.birch and the last Sunday of the month will be with @ curvaceousmermaidgoddess. $25 per person, 1 drink from the menu included (tickets)
Sun 10 AM – 2 PM Seeds & Starts Day Rail Yards Market, 777 1st St. SW Ready, Set, Grow! The Rail Yards Market is the best local destination of plants for your garden, blooms for mom, and fresh spring produce for your table. Get your seeds and starter plants from your favorite local growers! Free for all! Everyone is welcome! EBT doubled with Double-Up-Food-Bucks. Senior and WIC programs welcome. Fresh local produce! Breakfast & lunch prepared food options. Handmade Art. ADA Accessible. Free Parking. FREE :: LOCAL :: FAMILY FRIENDLY :: PET FRIENDLY
Sun 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM Mother's Day Brunch Sheraton Uptown, 2600 Louisiana Blvd. NE Treat Mom to all her favorite brunch foods, including made-to-order omelets, garden salads, and of course elegant desserts. $55 per adult, $28 children 5-10 (plus tax & gratuity), children 0-4 complimentary with a paid adult. Reservations are required: 505.349.2520 (menu)
Sun 11 AM Mother's Day Special D.H. Lescomes Winery & Bistro, 901 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, Ste B-100 Celebrate Mother's Day with a special meal! We’re excited to introduce two mouthwatering specials that are sure to delight her taste buds: Baked Penne Rustica and Pan-Seared Chilean Sea Bass. Plus, add a glass of any of our 631 Signature wines to one of these specials for only $7 Reservations recommended, please call your location (more info)
Sun 11 AM – 4 PM Mother's Day Sunday Rally Sunday Service Motor Co, 2701 4th St. NW Join us for May's Sunday Rally - cohosted by Indian Motorcycle and the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2024. This month, we will be meeting at Indian Motorcycle off of Alameda for coffee and pastries. We will then cruise back to Sunday Service for live music, food, and raffles. Drop in and learn more about Indian Motorcycles, The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, and donate to Mothers in need this Mother's Day!
Sun 11:30 AM Mamma Mia! Historic Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave NE Showing Starts at 11:30 am Tickets are ONLY $10 for General Admission $25 Brunch and a Movie Ticket $21 Brunch Only ticket. Grab your ticket online or call for reservations today!
Sun 12 PM Mother's Day - Moms play for free! Empire Board Game Library, 3503 Central Ave NE Let Empire treat you to some free play time! If you're a mom, then come in this Sunday and play any of our 1,000 games without paying for table time on your special day
Sun 12 – 8 PM Mother's Day Seared Bistro, 119 San Pasquale Ave SW Brunch 12-3 PM (click link for full menu), Dinner 12-8 PM
Sun 1 – 5 PM Mother's Day in Old Town 2000 N. Plaza St. NW The City of Albuquerque presents this free event celebrates Mom on her special day in Old Town and features food, shopping, kids’ activities, and more. Enjoy live music on the Gazebo with performances by Nathaniel Krantz, Baila! Baila!, and Picoso. Grab a bite to eat from local food trucks Craft Q BBQ, Tikka Spice, and Pack’n Bowlz or enjoy a sit down meal from one of the Old Town restaurants. Eat, dance, and enjoy time with the family in Historic Old Town! (more info)
Sun 1 – 5 PM Animated Iris: Mother's Day Iris Show Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas Blvd. NE Open to the Public. Free Admission. Public Invited to Submit Entries 8-9AM
Sun 2 – 5 PM May Swing Sanctuary Retreat Enchantment Ballroom, 337 San Pedro Dr. NE Do you love West Coast Swing? Do you compete or would you like to start competing? Have you been looking for a community of like-minded, supportive dancers to push your boundaries and empower you to reach your full dance potential? Join Melissa for The Swing Sanctuary Retreat, a competitors community focused gathering for those of us looking for a safe space to foster positive change in our dancing with like-minded community members. The only requirements to join are a positive attitude and having competed or planning to compete a West Coast Swing Jack and Jill within a year. If you competed at Rio Grande or are planning to compete at Dance Fiesta, those count! If you'd like to join the group but aren't sure about competing, let us know, we're happy to talk to you about it and help you plan an event within the next year, that's all it takes! This will be a regular monthly gathering. If you have any questions as to if this is a good fit for you and your goals, please let us know. Cost: $20
Sun 4 – 5:30 PM Paint Your Own Pot Mrs. Sprinkles Ice Cream, 3107 Eubank Blvd. NE Paint Night with Susan Gomez is your chance to grab your pals, the fam or just yourself and paint the night away. Have fun while creating lasting memories to take home and enjoy forever! Join us for my very first Paint Your Own Pot event! Mrs. Sprinkles is the newest addition to the charming Scottsdale Village Shopping Center. Come see the beautiful shop, have some fun with Mom or Grandma and have some amazing treats! What a wonderful way to spend Mother's Day! Enjoy buy one, get one half off the full menu that day! All supplies are included and all are welcome for this event. Seating is Limited. Please arrive a few minutes early for a 4pm start time. NO NEED TO PICK UP A TICKET AHEAD OF TIME, CHECK IN AT THE EVENT
Sun 6 – 9 PM Sunday Funday Karaoke Tractor Brewing - Wells Park, 1800 4th St. NW What brings the fun better then karaoke? Nothing! We got an all new night of karaoke for you singing addicts! Come amp up your Sunday Funday and sing a song with us! The Pop Up will be on hand serving up eats!

My (38F) fiancé (50M) and I see no need for a formal wedding for a lot of reasons but want to have a big party with our family and friends! Trimming the guest list wasn't considered, so we started to look at other ways to cut costs. We both agreed early on we wanted a very casual, picnic-like wedding. Communicated this on the invites.
Our venue is a sportsmen's club they we're both members of. The banquet hall, riverfront grove, commercial kitchen, 2 bartenders and cleaning fee will run us $900. It's a simple venue but it's right on the water and the grove is beautiful and has a large pavilion and gazebo.
Venue offers a consumption bar, and prices are reasonable. $48 per case of domestic beer, $45 per bottle of well liquor, $40 per box of wine, $40 for a canister of pop. I figure we'll offer 3 brands of domestic beer, well vodka, whiskey and rum, a red wine and a white wine. Based on our guest list this should cover everyone. The venue has a public bar attached where guests could purchase craft beer, top shelf, anything else they wanted. We're budgeting $1,700 for a mix of heavy and light drinkers.
For catering we're doing a drop off buffet. We are getting 3 entrees, 2 sides, a specialty salad and dinner rolls with butter from a well regarded local caterer dropped off for $21.00/ person including plates, napkins and utensils. $3,556 after tax and delivery. My niece is a BOH manager and we are hiring 2 of her trusted employees on the side for $150 each to tend the buffet lines and generally help out. (Our caterer didn't have an option to provide servers.)
Instead of a cake we're doing a donut display. Borrowed the display board from a friend who did the same and are getting 13 dozen mixed donuts from a local donut company. $340 after tax.
It's an afternoon wedding and we plan on having the buffet around 3:00PM. When things are wrapping down around 8PM we are going to order pizza and wings for the remaining guests. This part is actually important to me because I LOVE pizza, our city is famous for chicken wings and we have a lot of guests coming in from out of town. We're not sure how many people will still be around at 8 (starts at 2), but we're figuring 4 sheet pizzas and 200 wings, $350 after tax. Adding more would be no bog deal. We figure picking up the pizza could be the last task for our 2 helpers, the place is only a few blocks away.
We're budgeting $700 for gratuities (15% for caterer, $100 each for the bartenders who will also get guest tips). VistaPrint invites were $78. RSVPify is $120. My hai clothes/ shoes will be under $500 all in. I don't wear makeup.
We aren't having a photographer. Not only do I not want to spend the money, I would be SUPER self-conscious taking posed photos and/ or knowing someone could always be watching me/ photographing me. I know I'm probably a weirdo, but I just don't like the idea. We signed up for WedUpload and are going to put cards out with a QR code if any of the guests want to share their photos with us. This is not something I'm stressed about. Photos don't matter much to me.
We aren't having a DJ. The venue has a robust speaker system both inside and out and we're going to build a playlist that a friend will curate during the event. This is more of a "picnic" wedding than "dancefloor" wedding so I'm not stressed about it (blind draw cornhole tournament after the buffet and fishing on the docks lol). There are only 2 songs I care about that I want played at specific times and I trust friend to handle that.
Right now I'm at about $8,600 budgeted. What am I missing???? I really don't want to go over $10K for this but have a little wiggle room as of right now.

Hoping to crowd-source some suggestions for tracking down a possible etymology for the word “saoko” (alt. saoco/a) in Afro-Caribbean Spanish. The word was brought to global stage by Rosalia, whose song “SAOKO” is directly referencing an older song by Daddy Yankee, Wisin and Yandel. The word shows up in the lyrics of other Caribbean artists including Celia Cruz. From what I’ve gathered, the word is familiar within Afro-Caribbean music and culture in Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Panama, having a rough definition related to rhythm/joy/“flavor” in dance, and is also the name of a cocktail.
ASALE’s dictionary of americanimos records it as: (1, in Cuba) a cocktail made with coconut water and rum, (2, in Cuba) of a person or thing, being of lower quality or social category, and (3, for “saoca”, Panama), “sensation of joy and spontaneity associated with dancing.” ASALE doesn’t given any possible etymology. Saoco/a is not listed in the standard RAE dictionary.
Multiple sources online (mostly writing about the Rosalia song) suggest that “saoco” is an Africanism, but none go as far as to suggest a direct origin/cognate across the Atlantic. Perhaps this is common for most africanismos, given that the word could have many possible origins and have changed significantly in both meaning and form, but I wonder if anyone who knows more about West and Central African languages/Caribbean creoles might have any guesses or suggestions for finding clues!
Based on my understanding, the most likely languages to find cognates would be Kikongo, Kimbundu, Yoruba, Ewe, and Fon, but so far haven’t found any clear matches. It would also be interesting if this word has any possible cognates elsewhere in the Afro-Caribbean world, such as in Brazil or Haiti.

Okay… no it’s not. They both suck. But if I had to choose between those two options or sobriety, I’m getting drunk 5 times out of 7. The other two times are recovery days.
Between the ages of 14 and 27, I smoked weed almost every single day. I would go to school and work high as bat pussy and never get shit done, whereas I find that I can write endless amounts of meaningless blogs and songs while nursing a rum and coke. If I decided to light up a joint right now, I’d give up, because weed makes me catatonic. Some people can function while high. I am not one of those people. Took a lot of burnt bridges and cold sweats to internalize that fact.
But like any addiction (and don’t kid yourself, weed is absolutely an addiction), it never really goes away, it just manifests in various forms throughout an addict’s life. Heroin addicts tend to lean towards exersise or meditation, alcoholics have a weird predilection towards surrending to a higher power and selling out their individuality, etc. It’s all rather pathetic, but we’re all human, and no choice is the wrong choice per se.
Except maybe mine. I switched from the bong to the bottle, and while I feel no shame about doing so—I still manage to have meaningful connections with my lifelong friends, get my work done and take care of my cats—I realize that I’m doing myself no favors. Okay, maybe I’m doing myself one favor, but it’s limited.
I don’t wake up and drink (unless it happens to be the weekend my ex texts me that they’re engaged before even announcing it on social media), I don’t get the shakes (because I drink trashy malt drinks most of the time), and my desire to drink doesn’t stop me from doing the dishes or sweeping the floor or writing my next masterpiece (put that word in big heavy quotes, please). And yet, I recognize the difference between vegging out and playing video games all day, or drinking nonstop until my brain decides to call it quits: I can actually get work done and I’m not afraid to be myself when I’m drunk.
When I was a casual weekend drinker, I would get mean and angry for no reason. Then I sorted out my shit, accepted the queerness I buried for years, explored new avenues for self-expression and communication, and became a jolly happy drunk who always knows where their bed is and how to fall right into it when I’m ready to pass out for the night. I’ll wake up to pages of ideas that I barely remember penning, shocking myself with my own semi-coherent ideas. Over a period of nine months last year, I wrote an entire album that I barely remember finishing, but people seem to like it, so maybe I found my formula.
Speaking of which, I have a guitar with fresh strings and a small bottle of apple-flavored moonshine with my name on it. Did my housework for the day, took a small pre-drink nap, kept up with the Kendrick/Drake beef, and made sure my family was secure for the night.
I should wrap this up and get to work.

Hi all
There's this weird phenomenon I notice with hyperpop in general, where one is neutral/dislikes a song and then a large period of time later, becomes absolutely addicted or falls in love with the song. Lots of my friends feel this when they listen to gecs and then gecs again months later where the opinion transforms from "I hate this" to "this is amazing". It happened to a lot of songs from 100 and 10000 gecs to me, and most recently Cake Pop 2. I thought cake pop 2 was so mid except for black rum but here I am literal years later just addicted to the album.
It's distinct from a guilty pleasure imo just because it's more like a true 180 in opinion. Let me know if you've experienced this and with what songs!

Welcome to the 186th Buddy Weekly Discussion Thread!
This is a place to talk about anything you want! Share how your week is going, recommend your favorite songs, or strike up a conversation about your interests. The purpose of this discussion is to get to know other Buddies better and have some fun!
Upcoming Events

Date	Time	Schedule	Notes
May 7	9:00 PM KST	VIVIZ @ 2024 Hansei University PLAY:RUM
May 8	8:00 PM KST	VIVIZ @ Pukyong National University 25th So!ution Festival
May 10	7:00 PM KST	VIVIZ @ Pusan National University 39th National Dental School Festival 'Busan Vacation'

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“Well, I don't know why I came here tonight. I got the feeling that something ain't right. I'm so scared in case I fall off my chair. And I'm wondering how I'll get down the stairs.”
“Clowns to the left of me. Jokers to the right. Here I am. Stuck in the middle with you.”
“Yes, I'm stuck in the middle with you. And I'm wondering what it is I should do. It's so hard to keep this smile from my face. Losing control, yeah, I'm all over the place.”
“Clowns to the left of me. Jokers to the right. Here I am. Stuck in the middle with you.”
I started writing this journal entry at 11:30 PM at night, body aching from the 9 hour shift I had, not sleepy due to the redbull I had earlier. 28,000 steps in 1 day. With a huge blister on my right toe as a result , that shit is now practically a sixth toe on my right foot.
I should probably get something to eat. These kinda work days make me hope that a cramp doesn’t wake me up in the middle of the night because these kinda work days do that. AND I don’t have the day off tomorrow. Guess I’m missing Game 1 of the Twolves and Nuggets.
I’m going to go eat and smoke now, ain’t no way in hell I’m going to be able to finish this instead of taking some time to chill. Going to leave my future self to worry about that. At least, I’m getting a fat paycheck. I got an entire week of work, these kinda weeks is what allowed me to splurge in Japan and LA. I’m trying to be successful to the point where I can just wake up one day and if I wanted to fly to Thailand or some shit, I can do it without having any concerns. It’s called fuck you money for a reason.
———
My grandparents pulled up in the morning so that they’d be able to look after my dad once I went off to work. I’ll be working a rehearsal dinner with my brother and uncle, this dinner is different though. The groom is the son of the owner of the hotel I work at, which means that this is gonna be a huge event.
I went off to work at around 1:20, got there at 2. I was kinda annoyed when I was told that I was meant to be here at 4. My brother did let me know that I will be working later, but I missed his text. Could only really blame myself but I’m also getting tired of this game of telephone my brother and uncle play with me. Anyways, it wasn’t the worst thing since it meant that we’d get things done faster.
I did the usual things before a dinner. Get all the water ready for the guests, make sure that the silverware is set properly (and polished), help out the bartenders if they need shit, check in with the host of the event etc.
The dinner went pretty well. No one complained so that’s always a good thing. Well, one thing that people might’ve complained about was the band that was playing music during the dinner. My coworkers were talking shit about the singer all night, I thought he was alright, but they made it seem as if he was off key from the time he got on to the end of the night. He did pick some good songs to sing though.
After the dinner was over, the reception began. It was the as huge as I thought it would be. Didn’t have much trouble passing out the appetizers. 140 people were supposed to come, but it was more like 100. Ate some of it when no one was looking, I consider that shit an alternate form of payment. Always gets boring whenever I have to keep passing even though no one wants to eat.
I was told that the Mayor was gonna show up. That man reminds me quite a bit of Tommy Carcetti from The Wire. Gotta give that show a rewatch soon. He didn’t show up though, but I’m kinda glad that he didn’t. Things get interesting whenever his ass shows up. Will always remember how he apparently told the police to ignore all the noise complaints people were having over a party we had.
Definitely was one of the days where I needed to get myself a Red Bull. Once a shift gets over 6 hours, I need that shit. It’s not a want, it’s a need. Maybe I wouldn’t have dropped out of Uni if I drank that shit every day like my classmates would. An energy drink for breakfast is some nasty work though.
I hadn’t felt that tired in a while. I was barely able to move quickly, already knew that my body was going to be even more fucked by the time I was done working the following day. Got to keep the eyes on the prize, that’s what has me push through it.
That night went faster than I expected. But fuck, I was wiped out. Lots of moving back and forth through buildings, one of the bad things about these kinds of events. We should have our own space for the separate building. But instead they have us bring all that shit we had used for the event back to where we regularly work. Gets tiring having to move all those chairs, tables, decorations, and even all the trash from the reception. I’m not complaining, well I kinda am, just saying that my job can get pretty strenuous.
When I was doing one final run through to see if we had left anything behind. I came across the owner of the hotel and his wife. I wasn’t prepared for that shit. Always got to keep myself on my toes whenever he’s on sight.
His wife is pretty nice though, did some small talk. Asked if she had a good night, etc etc. Told them to have a good night and he didn’t even bat a single glance at me, which is very in character of him. His wife did tell me, “Thanks, Guy!”
I don’t even know the last time I been disrespected that badly. Wasn’t meant to be disrespectful, but damn, guy?Like I said, got to keep the eyes on the prize.
Once I got home, I didn’t even bother showering. I definitely should have. I just wanted to lay in bed. And so I did. I thought about journaling, which explains the intro. Did end up smoking and getting something to eat before bed.
Could’ve went to sleep as soon as I got home so I could be rested for the next day. I don’t do that shit though, I need some time to not worry about work. Ended up going to sleep at 1:30.
Song Of The Day: Stealers Wheel - Stuck In The Middle With You
That singer did a decent cover of Stuck In The Middle With You, I’m not even going to lie. Had me wanting to move like Mr. Blonde for a second.
Looking Back on 5/3/23: “I’m on that Stringer Bell atm”, I was definitely on something while writing that. And it wasn’t intentional either that I also made a reference to The Wire for this entry.
Anyways here was is a concept track list of the album at the time: Don’t Worry, I’m Just Crying.

1. Intro (Undecided)
2. Don’t Worry, I’m Just Crying*
3. Mano a Mano -
4. LL (Lost Love/Last Love)^
5. Do Not Resuscitate (Oh No, No, No.)*
6. Soul-Searching! (Sun-Seeking!) -
7. hurt people, hurt people.
8. So Zoloft! SCRAPPED
9. New Normal
10. Everything’s Going Well*
11. Good Cries/Broken Promises^
12. Sunset! -
13. Innocent Once*
14. Algún Día^

(The symbols meant what progress I had on that track)
I wanted it to be a personal and emotional record. Touched on a lot of subjects from mental health, love, family, and trauma. Kinda cliche, which is intentional, but at the same time, I wanted to break barriers. I’d like to seriously work on it though, only way I’d know that I’d be able to complete it is if it’s the only priority I have. Because if I’m going to do this shit then I want to put everything I possibly can into it.