Tired Of 80's metal

the herald · Post by **the herald** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

it all goes in cycles with me, sometimes im so sick of 80s stuff but if i dont listen to it for awhile then its not so bad, but i agree with the earlier comment that when your in a band....even if your playing what you love after 600 some odd shows it gets really old! always important to try to learn new stuff on a weekly basis and keep it mixed up or youll turn into a stale robot

bassist_25 · Post by **bassist_25** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

songsmith wrote:Oh, man. Appetite For Destruction was a brilliant meld of punk sensibility, blues-rock guitar, and metal excess... truly groundbreaking, truly pissed-off, a magnum opus. From there it was a quick ride to Crappytown. I absolutely HATE everything GnR did after AFD, and most especially, the worst crime they ever perpetrated, Patience. By the time the cheesy exercise in self-flattering masturbation, Use Your Illusion, came out, Slash had emerged as the only guy in the band who hadn't started JO'ing in front of a mirror. I realize that's a rather strong critique for a laid-back kinda dude like me, but I think history will bear it out.

Man, I have to agree with you 90% on that post (the 10% I disagree with is about Patience. I dig that song. Then again, I always dig a well-written and performed acoustic ballad). I usually like to watch bands evolve in their sound, watch them grow as songwriters, see them add things in production, but with GnR, I don't know; it was so so bloated. I don't think the problem was with the ostentatiousness of it all, but rather, Axl's pretentiousness. I swear the dude thought he was Mozart or John Lennon or someone. I loved every song on Appetite, all the way from Welcome to the Jungle to Rocket Queen. With Use Your Illusion, I may listen to about ten songs spread out between the two albums. And why the hell did we need two versions of Don't Cry. The record company probaly just saw that as filler, but I'm sure Axl thought it was innovative and artistic to put alternative lyrics to the song. And what the hell was up with Axl's performance at the MTV Awards? He couldn't even sing Welcome to the Jungle in time. When Chinese Democracy finally does come out, it's going to be like when Brian Wilson released Smile: The only people who are going to care are music journalist working for Rolling Stone, the rest of us will have gotten on with our lives.

But Slash's Snakepit and Velvet Revolver do kick ass.

DMFJ03 · Post by **DMFJ03** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

Paul, there was a lot of big words in that paragraph. Please, remember to keep it simple for us fourth grade reading level types.

Banned · Post by **Banned** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

I would say that everyone who has posted on this subject has extremely valid points.

I would say for myself that I agree with Tonefight and Victor Sinn. Too much of anything could be bad for you. But, if you're playing this stuff to draw crowds, you need to play the overplayed stuff as I think the guys in HF1 were trying to convey.

As for the music, I like it all. Dangerous Toys and Lord Tracy were really cool as were Bang Tango and some of the other "non-mainstream" groups that were mentioned. But I think it's ALL good!!

I can't remember who posted the comment, but the 80's metal IS more fun to listen to than most of the shit that's out now. And I will include 80's New Wave in there too as that's what I really like the most.

But, to each his own. I like it ALL. Oh, what was the name of the band that played a song called "You're Like a Tattoo"?

Victor Synn · Post by **Victor Synn** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

bassist_25 wrote:When Chinese Democracy finally does come out...

The Chinese will have a democracy before that album is released.

bassist_25 · Post by **bassist_25** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

Victor Synn wrote:
bassist_25 wrote:When Chinese Democracy finally does come out...

The Chinese will have a democracy before that album is released.

Zing!!!

Post by **Ron** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

Victor Synn wrote:
bassist_25 wrote:When Chinese Democracy finally does come out...

The Chinese will have a democracy before that album is released.

ROFL

Punkinhead · Post by **Punkinhead** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

I didn't get much of a chance listening to the 80's growing up (I grew up in the grunge era but, found a home in metal during that time) but, I love the music made then. I especially love the speed metal of the era (Slayer, MegaDeth are still two of my favorite bands). On top of that I really dug the musicianship of the era, for the most part (it did get excessive and at some points shitty but, every genre has it's own faults at one point or another). I can still listen to Skid Row all day for Sebastian Bach's amazing voice, Dokken to hear Lynch play, etc.

Victor Synn · Post by **Victor Synn** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

ToonaRockGuy wrote:1. Guitarists and Bassist tune down to at least C, preferably B.
2. Singer writes totally depressed and suicidal lyrics (ie Aaron Lewis)
3. Band records dark, haunting song, has #1 hit, goes on tour, sells millions and becomes rich. Meanwhile, Brett Michaels is playing bars.

I'd be complaining if Bret was playing 200-seat bars, but he's playing clubs in the 1000-2000 person range, so I wouldn't call it a bad gig. Not an arena, but all he would have to do is continue with Poison and the 10,000+ seat venue shows would continue. And on another note, would anyone deny even playing a 200-seat venue if you got paid $7800/show like Bret? Didn't think so...

ToonaRockGuy · Post by **ToonaRockGuy** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

Point taken, Vic. I sure wouldn't turn down a gig like that. I was just saying that it just seems messed up to me that all these downer bands are packing places like BJC while the 80's guys are still busting their humps, almost having to prove themselves again. And that, to me, is sad.

Post by **Ron** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

I don't know there ToonaRockGuy, There's something to be said about 'dark' lyrics and music. It all has it's place... what about Sabbath, Floyd, Alice in Chains? Very dark, very mysterious, very suicidal, and very, very good.

In my book DLR can't hold a candle to Aaron Lewis when it comes to vocal talent. I'll never forget the first time I played Van Halen for my mother in 1978. In her words... " Why did they put such a good guitar player in the same band with that singer? ". LOL.

During the early '80s one of the greatest musical disasters happened... the invention of the "Power Ballad". God, I think I'm gonna puke just typing that.

ToonaRockGuy · Post by **ToonaRockGuy** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

I understand what you're saying there, Ron. My whole thing is that bands like Floyd, Sabbath, and AIC were really once-in-a generation type bands. The right thing came together at the right time and was so different from anything else that it stood out.

The whole modern rock scene has gone downhill the same way that 80's metal went downhill...overkill. (no, not the band, LOL)

Staind sounds just like 3 Days Grace sounds just like Crossfade sounds just like Seether sounds just like Chevelle and on and on...

Just like the whole 80's/90's metal bands all started sounding alike. I just miss the pure FUN of the music. I'll agree that DLR vocally is horrible, but I'd pay to see him and his band play before seeing Staind ever again. Aaron Lewis is the most boring dude to watch in concert, just shuffling around woefully, moaning his lyrics...

I'd rather see someone modern and heavy like Rob Zombie. THAT motherf*cker knows how to put on a show. Sure, he's vocally lacking, but the show he did a few years back with Korn at the BJC was amazing. Fire, robots, girls in cages, lasers, the whole 9 yards. (Another great "show" band, Iron Maiden is the whole reason I'm going to OzzFest this year)

I just don't like the boring aspects of bands anymore. Seems like in getting all their focus on the music, bands forgot to put on a show. And that is what I go to a concert for...the total experience of a show.

Bag · Post by **Bag** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

Far be it for me to speak for "Scream",(I'm just a fan) but back when they started out as Bashful, they played HEAVY music, with a few power ballads thrown in so couples could "grab some ass." At the time, they drew good crowds in most places they'd play. Great crowds in a handful. They would play the heavier songs from bands instead of the "popular" ones. That was one of the reasons I liked them so much. It was funny sometimes because alot of people wouldn't even know that they were cover songs. If they tried to do that now, they'd probably be playing to me and a bunch of barstools. I think they still like what they're doing,(playing the popular hair tunes) and they're damn good at it, but I miss seeing them play "Savatage", "Iron Maiden", and the like. My point is, they play some stuff now that they NEVER would have played before. You got to do what's gonna get the asses in the door.

P.S. I don't want anyone that hasn't seen them thinking that they only play Bon Jovi and Def Leppard ballads, that IS NOT the case. They still play a bunch of kickass songs too.

bassist_25 · Post by **bassist_25** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

I hear that, Kevin. I'm amazed at how little stage presence a lot of national acts have nowadays (while being amazed at how much some local/regional acts have). I'm as big as a Tool/APC fan as anyone, but Maynard not facing the crowd is pretentious and unprofessional. Yeah, it's art, but it's also about putting on a performance, and one of the most important parts of performing is connecting with the audience. If I ever started turning my back to the audience, I would expect my bandmates to fire me, and they damn well should.

Thank God I wasn't in the Doors, because I would have canned Morrison's ass by the second show if he didn't start facing the audience.

Post by **Ron** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

Yeah Kev, I see your side, but I mainly go to a show to listen. The synergy of lights can be cool if they are done correctly, but I'd much rather see the focus put on musicality than showmanship. I get more of a rush out of someone nailing a vocal part or harmony than I do out of fireworks and that kind of fluff. Pink Floyd is the best band I've ever seen when it comes to expert musicianship combined with incredible effects and lighting. Ahhh... Great Gig in the Sky.

MOONDOGGY · Post by **MOONDOGGY** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

I couldn't agree more Ron. That's what I love about DT concerts. 90% of the people there are musicians, so there is no jumping around, head banging, and being maniacs. It's just people staring in awe and slightly bobbing their heads. Pyro, lights, and a wild & crazy band can only do so much for me if they can't play their instruments.

Anyhoot, I am embarrassed to say that I have never heard of most of the bands listed earlier. I made a list so I could check them out.

Spock's Beard, Salty Dog, LSD, Dangerous Toys, Killer Dwarfs, Johnny Crash, Celtic Frost, Shotgun Messiah, Tora Tora, Bang Tango, Tyketto, Lillian Axe, Love/ Hate, Saxon, Accept, Krokus, Metal Church, Trust, Helix, Icon, Q5, Anvil, Kickaxe, Adam Bomb, Marseilles, Heavy Pettin, Diamond Head, Dangerous Toys, Lord Tracy. (I'm sure I misspelled some of those!)

Is it strange that a 20 year old has never heard of these guys? I like to call myself a fan of progressive music because I love DT, Queesnryche, King's X, Symphony X, Planet X, etc....but after reading this list and not having heard of them, I feel like I was just born yesterday!

Which of those bands are prog? Which are slower rock? Which of these bands would a DT/Queensryche fan love??? I'm all compuzzled!

bassist_25 · Post by **bassist_25** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

You'll totally dig Spock's Beard. They almost sound like a modern-day version of Yes. I would suggest the album "V" to get you started. They have chops out the wazoo, but they don't sacrifice good song writing/arranging in order to wank.

Also good to see you mention King's X. If anyone thinks there isn't any interesting Rock music being made right now, pick up a King's X CD and that should change your mind. Doug Pinnick's voice knocks me out.

Post by **Ron** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

Spock's Beard kicks ass. I dig this one...
Surfing Down

Note: This is a big file. Dial-up visitors beware. For everyone else, the best way to get it is to right click and select "Save Target As". Unless you use something other than IE, then you probably know what to do already.

Banned · Post by **Banned** » Wednesday Jun 01, 2005

bassist_25 wrote: Also good to see you mention King's X. If anyone thinks there isn't any interesting Rock music being made right now, pick up a King's X CD and that should change your mind. Doug Pinnick's voice knocks me out.

I forgot about Kings X. They do kick serious ass. At one point I heard that they were a Christian band. Not that I have anything against that because I don't. But are they? Just curious.

T

Bert|Evil · Post by **Bert|Evil** » Thursday Jun 02, 2005

Punkinhead wrote:I didn't get much of a chance listening to the 80's growing up (I grew up in the grunge era but, found a home in metal during that time) but, I love the music made then. I especially love the speed metal of the era (Slayer, MegaDeth are still two of my favorite bands). On top of that I really dug the musicianship of the era, for the most part (it did get excessive and at some points shitty but, every genre has it's own faults at one point or another). I can still listen to Skid Row all day for Sebastian Bach's amazing voice, Dokken to hear Lynch play, etc.

I know that this comment isn't going to be received so well by all, but it does seem as if any bum can do it these days. Perhaps it's time for my cane and prune smoothie?

bassist_25 · Post by **bassist_25** » Thursday Jun 02, 2005

bugglez24 wrote:
bassist_25 wrote: Also good to see you mention King's X. If anyone thinks there isn't any interesting Rock music being made right now, pick up a King's X CD and that should change your mind. Doug Pinnick's voice knocks me out.

I forgot about Kings X. They do kick serious ass. At one point I heard that they were a Christian band. Not that I have anything against that because I don't. But are they? Just curious.

T

They definatley have a very Christian message (most of their songs basically translate into loving thy neighbor), but I wouldn't call them a Christian band in the vein of say Stryper. I know that bassist/vocalist Doug Pinnick came out of the closet a while back, so some fundies might be up in arms about that, but either way, they are a killer band (as is their counterpart, The Galactic Cowboys).

Banned · Post by **Banned** » Thursday Jun 02, 2005

That's what I sort have gotten from them myself. It's like Christian but not Christian. Maybe inspirational? Who Cares?? The dudes do rule!

Thanks, bassist_25, we seem to be on the same wavelength on several different posts in the past.

Anyway, there's a ton of GREAT 80's metal out there. There's a lot of crap stuff too, but I think the good definately outweighs the bad in this genre of music.

By the way, I still use Rave 4X megahold to spike my hair!

Bert|Evil · Post by **Bert|Evil** » Thursday Jun 02, 2005

bugglez24 wrote:That's what I sort have gotten from them myself. It's like Christian but not Christian. Maybe inspirational? Who Cares?? The dudes do rule!

Thanks, bassist_25, we seem to be on the same wavelength on several different posts in the past.

Anyway, there's a ton of GREAT 80's metal out there. There's a lot of crap stuff too, but I think the good definately outweighs the bad in this genre of music.

By the way, I still use Rave 4X megahold to spike my hair!

If I remember correctly, Rave worked great in rain but not very good in snow.

Staceman · Post by **Staceman** » Thursday Jun 02, 2005

bassist_25 wrote:They definatley have a very Christian message (most of their songs basically translate into loving thy neighbor), but I wouldn't call them a Christian band in the vein of say Stryper. I know that bassist/vocalist Doug Pinnick came out of the closet a while back, so some fundies might be up in arms about that, but either way, they are a killer band (as is their counterpart, The Galactic Cowboys).

There was actually a third band to come from the same area, "Atomic Opera". Very obscure compared to the other two though, didn't get much exposure. Look up their '92 album "For Madmen Only" for some great rock and killer harmonies. They might still be putting out music, I haven't kept up with them in a while.

lonewolf · Post by **lonewolf** » Thursday Jun 02, 2005

Fortunately, I skipped the 80s, spending the 1st half working with Forces originals and the 2nd half trying to program the crude midi devices of the day. It just seemed that if you could produce a video (i.e. come up with $50K and a stupid 3 minute video idea), you were the latest "band of the week". I don't consider bands like BonJovi (gay), Crue(excellent) or GnR(sucks) to be metal.

Fortunately, I'm not burnt on 80s rock/metal and am just really learning to appreciate it.

What I'm tired of is mindless hip-hop being shoved down our throat at half of the places that have DJs.