[Atruejedi]

Dishwalla

Background: I’m really not going to bother putting much effort into this entry. Dishwalla was a one-hit-wonder in the ’90s that wanted you to tell them all of your thoughts on God. Their debut album is a solid effort, but there’s no point in listening to anything that came after it. It’s a sturdy time capsule of alt-rock at the end of the millennium, but beyond the smash hit single it offered, there ain’t much there that’s memorable. Hell, I forgot this album/song/band existed until it popped up on my Discover Weekly from Spotify today. Oh, and apparently their lead singer forgot the band existed, too; he quit a decade ago, but this year the remaining members put out a new album without him… why? Anyway, because they don’t really deserve much attention, and to make up for my frequent rule violations, only one runner-up this time. ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_smile.gif” />

The Obvious Choice:
Counting Blue Cars

Album: Pet Your Friends (1995)

Tell me all your thoughts on God
‘Cause I’d really like to meet her
And ask her why we’re who we are

Rock Band 4 is the Harmonix game that seems to have embraced the desire of older millennials for ’90s radio fare (see: Spin Doctors, Live, Soundgarden, Gin Blossoms, Mighty Mighty Bosstones, 4 Non Blondes). So it’s a surprise to me that this song didn’t pop up on that disc with its brethren or as DLC. I was further surprised no author had tackled this as a custom. Well, here we are. Thanks, you.

 

Vocals: The star of the show. Your mom knows and loves this song. Backing vocals and harmonies are subtle and interesting.
Guitar: It’s just suh-weeeeet… and everybody knows it. Including your mom, of course.
Bass: It’s fun! Gets her goin’.
Drums: Pretty standard rock ‘n’ roll drums, sounds like.
Keys: It’s the ’90s! No!
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

Runner-up:
Charlie Brown’s Parents

Available now! Download here
Album: Pet Your Friend (1995)

I can’t hear what you’re saying
What you’re doing to me
Can’t you see?
It would take the jaws of life to pry open your words

This one starts slower than the Obvious Choice, but it rocks much harder. Okay, but seriously, while it is a really cool tune, just go back up to the Obvious Choice, please. Appreciate this one for what it is and realize Counting Blue Cars is the Obvious Choice for a reason. A very good reason.

 

Vocals: Edgier than above. Nice backing harmonies.
Guitar: More difficult than above.
Bass: I would feel bad-ass playing this. And it’s more difficult than above.
Drums: More difficult than above. Perhaps significantly.
Keys: Still the ’90s. Dad isn’t going to let you drag the piano into the garage.
Miscellaneous: Fades out. Just like their careers after this album.

[Atruejedi]

Frank Turner

Background: He’s one of my favorite singer-songwriters, but I absolutely realize Frank isn’t for everybody and much of his discography isn’t a good fit for Rock Band. He can be a bit too… affirming for some ears. He’s always singing about getting through tough situations and philosophical hullabaloo about how you should live your life. I dig that stuff, but I understand it isn’t everybody’s cup of tea (he is English, after all). Every song I thought would be on this list… well, isn’t. And the Obvious Choice wasn’t even on my radar. Oh, and for the keen among you, I can hear the wambulance sirens wailing already: “Atruejedi! Frank Turner has a song in Rock Band! And it was free, you doofus!” You’re right… but if you recall, I play Rock Band on the Wii. Therefore, I cannot enjoy this song like you fancy-pants Microsoft and Sony patrons. Luckily, I got to play I Still Believe on a friend’s XBOX and sang it intensely and joyfully and terribly. Frank isn’t in my range and the alcohol didn’t help. Actually, it definitely did. So take pity on me, or at least understand the sour situation. I. Want. Frank. So I’ll skirt the “zero representation” rule on a technicality. Frank taught me to be eternally hopeful and optimistic, after all.

The Obvious Choice:
Peggy Sang the Blues

Available now! Download here

Album: England Keep My Bones (2011)

It doesn’t matter where you come from
It matters where you go
And no one gets remembered
For the things they didn’t do

Selecting this track really wasn’t all that obvious, but Frank’s right, as usual. It doesn’t matter where you come from; it matters where you go. And no one gets remembered for the things they didn’t do.

Vocals: A great melody with really beautiful harmonies and backing vocals. I’m stupidly excited for that “We can get wild!” backing part.
Guitar: Acoustic folky guitar and electric as well, with chords and picking.
Bass: A real treat for bassists. Mmmm…
Drums: Nothing to elaborate on beyond the fact that they’re here and pretty standard. I’m dumb.
Keys: Subtle synthesizer and piano parts are buried underneath the other instruments at times… near the end you’ll definitely hear the piano part.
Miscellaneous: Lots of tambourine. Crisp ending.

Runner-up:
Live Fast Die Old
Album: Poetry of the Deed (2009)

And we can never sell out
Because we never bought in
And if they build it back up
Then we’ll swing back through town
And burn the whole thing down again

An logical twist on the old adage “live fast, die young” because, hey, nobody wants to die, friend. So let’s get as much as we can out of this life. Some might hear this tune as hippie-dippie nonsense, which is why Frank can turn off a lot of folk. Me? I find the affirmation comforting. You chart the tunes and I’ll bring the beers.

Vocals: Just Frank on the ol’ melody, but there are some “ba-da-ba-da-bums” to chart as a second and third harmony which should be fun for the rest of the band.
Guitar: Acoustic and electric chords.
Bass: Sounds really, really fun once the first verse begins.
Drums: Rock ‘n’ roll drums.
Keys: Piano! Pipe organ! More piano!
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

Runner-up:
Photosynthesis
Album: Love Ire & Song (2008)

And if all you ever do with your life is just photosynthesize
Then you’ll deserve every hour of your sleepless nights
That you waste wondering when you’re gonna die

This song is an adorable anthem about growing older but not letting that turn you into a sad, piece of @#^& quitter and whiner. Frank is a great lyricist and this is one of my favorite compositions by him. Thank goodness it translates well into Rock Band.

Vocals: A chorus for the whole band! Or the whole party!
Guitar: Cute acoustic chords.
Bass: A bouncing, simple, cute bass line. Dance!
Drums: Cute drums.
Keys: Chart the violin here! I think I hear a synthesizer or harmonica as well…
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

Gogol Bordello

 

Background: What if you could somehow personify the Clash and System of a Down, turning them into individual biological entities representing their entire respective bands, then coax them into falling in love, have them wed, send them on their honeymoon to Jamaica, except the island has been teleported into Eastern Europe, and then the two band-human hybrids have copious amounts of coitus and produce a super baby? Congratulations, now you’re ready for Gogol Bordello, the world’s premier gypsy punk band, featuring 823 different instruments, 153 band members, and 97 different accents. That statement is only a slight exaggeration. If I’m being upfront, I’m not an expert on this band, because they’ve been around forever and they aren’t… accessible to the average listener. Definitely an acquired taste, but my palette is always hungry for something different, and it don’t get much more different than this. That said, if anybody has more knowledge or expertise of this band, please, feel free to weigh in on what you think would make a good addition to Rock Band from these musical nomads.

The Obvious Choice:
Trans-Continental Hustle
Album: Trans-Continental Hustle (2010)

Hey hey hey hey, heidi heidi ho, heidi heidi hey! This song will occupy a unique spot in anybody’s library… if it’s ever charted. Plus, how many other songs mention Joe Strummer, Bob Marley, and Nazis in the same song!? None.

Vocals: I can pretty much guarantee that, if charted, this will be the only song with “panzerfaust” in the lyrics. Neat background vocals during the refrain and lots of random noises to chart here for the rest of the band.
Guitar: Acoustic chords to strum, strum, strum.
Bass: It’s easy, but it’s fun! Bounce!
Drums: Should be fun. Interesting change shortly after the two minute mark… almost a drum solo.
Keys: How about accordion instead?
Miscellaneous: Make sure to chart those freaky monkey noises or whatever the hell they are… because why not!? Crisp ending.

Runner-up:
The Other Side of Rainbow
Album: Pura Vida Conspiracy (2013)

Yes, that’s the title, poor grammar ‘n’ all. The hilarious part is it’s actually incorrect on Spotify, labeled as “It IS The Other Side of Rainbow”, as if some dude was yelling at another dude, emphasizing that the poor grammar was accurate. Ha! Compared to the other two selections here, this is pretty relaxing; a simple tune about freedom.

Vocals: Harmonies! A good song for parties.
Guitar: Acoustic and electric guitar at different times.
Bass: The backbone of the song.
Drums: They sound… different to my ignorant ear.
Keys: The accordion or violin could be charted here. And is that… a pan pipe?
Miscellaneous: Bonus points if you can pull off his Hungarian accent. Crisp ending.

Runner-up:
Start Wearing Purple
Album: Gypsy Punks: Underground World Strike (2005)

Everybody at your party wasted? Queue up this song immediately. Not wasted yet? Queue up this song immediately to affect that change. Nobody will know what the hell is going on but everybody will be having a blast and dancing and drinking even more. Everything in moderation, friend.

Vocals: Put your drunkest friend on lead vocals. Your other sloshed comrades will appreciate the nonsense lyrics and backing vocals.
Guitar: It’s easily heard at the beginning, but it’s pretty buried to my ear most of the time after all the action starts. But guitarists always get to have all the fun, so let’s allow the rest of the band have their moment in the sun.
Bass: It isn’t difficult.
Drums: Doesn’t sound too intense.
Keys: Accordion or violin could be charted here.
Miscellaneous: I don’t get it. Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes

Background: Yes, the band has a bajillion members, but this dirty hippie collective has two members that stand out from the rest: the two lead singers, Alexander and Jade. Seeing them perform together was concert really was… something truly special. But like all great things, it couldn’t last forever. Jade was kicked out of the band for drug abuse, which was a damn shame, because their two voices playing off of each other was what made their sound so unique. After her forced departure, the band released a record with only Alexander on vocals and not only was it simply not the same, it was actively bad. Fortunately for him and his fellows, their latest release was a return to form of sorts, even if it still only had one vocalist, but it still lacked that quality that made them such stars when together. Jade was an absolute joy both in the studio and on the stage, but I understand why she was given the boot when I see clips like the band’s NPR Tiny Desk Concert, during which she was freaking spaced out, and I fear that was a good day for her. Treat yourself to the performance here, but remember the darkness at the center of that joy. All this being said, my selections are going to focus on the time when Jade was still in the band, and because of that, I’ve double-dipped from one album featuring her in all of her drug-induced glory. You’ll thank me.

The Obvious Choice:
Home

Available now! Download here

Album: Up From Below (2009)

Chocolate cake and Jesus Christ, how Harmonix never released this as a single is mind-blowing. This song was huge and rightfully so. It is adorable. You’ve probably heard it, so I’ll let the song speak for itself.

Vocals: Holy moly! It’s a duet! And goodness, the spoken story midway through… so cute. There is a third vocal part buried near the end for manly men.
Guitar: Cowboy chords. The backbone of the song.
Bass: Pretty neat bass part. Get along, little doggie.
Drums: Not much for drummers to do but stomp their foot and enjoy the ride.
Keys: Lovely piano. Brass as well.
Miscellaneous: Chart that whistling to vocals!

Runner-up:
That’s What’s Up
Album: Here (2012)

A cute love song. If you don’t find it adorable, you’re a monster.

Vocals: Jade and Alexander harmonize for most of the song.
Guitar: Picking! A solo!
Bass: A bouncing bass line.
Drums: This should be more fun for drummers.
Keys: A very subtle synthesizer is nearly always in the background.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

Runner-up:
Man on Fire
Album: Here (2012)

It’s a slow burn (ha), but it’s worth waiting for the blaze to build.

Vocals: More he-and-she vocals. Lots of layers.
Guitar: Chords and picking.
Bass: It’s pretty overshadowed in this tune.
Drums: Eventually they kick into gear a bit.
Keys: Adorable piano.
Miscellaneous: Crisp, abrupt ending.

[Atruejedi]

Brendan Benson

Background: Certainly you’re familiar with the Raconteurs, known famously as one of Jack White‘s numerous side bands outside of the White Stripes. But did you realize Jack’s not the only singer in the band? His other, and, in my opinion, better half is none other than Brendan Benson, the man with the loveliest voice you didn’t know you knew. Brendan’s been around for a long time, and while it’s great to sing as him on a track like Many Shades of Black (one of my favorite songs ever), it would be nice to see him standing on his own in music libraries everywhere. After all, Jack White has his solo stuff in Rock Band 4 and even here in the database. And his White Stripes stuff. And his Dead Weather stuff. Enough Jack! More Brendan! Narrowing it down has been a chore, though, because I love the guy’s work so much. But I manned up and chose three songs from three different records, just because all of those albums are so, so good. I couldn’t resist dropping breadcrumbs to other lovely tunes, though. Feel free to indulge at your leisure.

The Obvious Choice:
The Alternative To Love
Album: The Alternative To Love (2005)

Truly, I think any song from this album could fit here, so I waffled back and forth a lot before finally deciding to simply go with the title track. This gentle number has a little bit of everything, but it’s definitely a treat for bands with more than one vocalist.

Vocals: There’s so much going on here, vocally, especially at the end. Basically, there’s a harmony accompanying the lead singer the entire song. And then there are at least three parts happening during the ending. Awesome.
Guitar: Gentle chords with some picking for most of the song. Something that could be considered a solo.
Bass: Sounds quite fun to me.
Drums: No opinion. Standard stuff.
Keys: Subtle synthesizer. A harmonica solo. Sounds like a pipe organ at the end.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending after all the craziness ends.

Runner-up:
Eyes on the Horizon
Album: My Old, Familiar Friend (2009)

This is my favorite album by Brendan and hosts my favorite song by him, but because I’m selfless I did not select Garbage Day. Instead, again, I went with the title track. It’s another relatively gentle song, this time about paranoia.

Vocals: More lovely layered vocals from Brendan. I love the lyrics.
Guitar: Chords.
Bass: It’s subtle, but it’s all over the place! I want it.
Drums: I’m ignorant, but probably fun.
Keys: Piano. And a creepy-ass ghost noise, but I have no idea what instrument is making that sound. Perhaps a cello…?
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

Runner-up:
On The Fence
Album: What Kind of World (2012)

What self-respecting woman would ever have me and not stab me? As I’ve said before, Rock Band needs more quality country songs, and I think this fits the bill. And yes, that was me hating on contemporary country radio. Hopefully this ditty about indecision over whether to settle down or ramble will please folk. *tips hat*

Vocals: Beyond the lead male vocals, there are guest vocals for a female friend! Gosh, it’s so pretty!
Guitar: Strum those chords like a country boy.
Bass: Solid.
Drums: No opinion. Perhaps a bore.
Keys: Piano in the spotlight!
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

The Record Company

Background: If you’re still on the fence over whether time travel is real, let this band settle the issue: it is real. The Record Company’s sound is straight out of the classic rock greats of the early ’70s. Since this band only has one album (and a good album it is!) and I often violate my own rules, I’ll make some amends by only offering two suggestions. After all, if you don’t dig either of these tracks, you aren’t going to like this band. Your loss.

The Obvious Choice:
Feels So Good
Album: Give It Back To You (2016)

The title of this song is appropriate, because you will feel so good performing it with your friends. I’m confident Harmonix will release this on their own eventually.

Vocals: Hey, hey, heeey! Fun for the lead singer and for the band! Lots of backing vocals and harmonies, too.
Guitar: Appropriately rad. You will feel bad-ass. At least two solos. Come on, baby!
Bass: Varied and interesting.
Drums: They really have a old timey big band sound to me at the beginning. Sounds like a good time.
Keys: Not this time.
Miscellaneous: IT HAS A BIG ROCK ENDING! ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_biggrin.gif” />

Runner-up:
Off The Ground
Album: Give It Back To You (2016)

As soon as I heard the opening bass riff, I knew this song was something special. It might be a bit repetitive for Rock Band, but that’s why it’s the runner-up. No harm, no foul.

Vocals: Hoo-oo-oo-oo! A nice mixture of manly singing and falsetto, backup singers included.
Guitar: The guitar is the star of this song. A very solid solo.
Bass: Repetitive, but the back bone of this song and bad-ass.
Drums: Repetitive, but probably not bad-ass.
Keys: Piano!
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

Fountains of Wayne

Background: Shields up. I’m wading into dangerous territory with this entry for a few reasons. “Is it because Stacy’s Mom is already in the database, dummy?” Nice try, friend! I play on a Wii and the multitracks from this Guitar Hero conversion cause unplayable stuttering for Wii us Nintendo supporters. Based on that technicality, I shall proceed with Fountains of Wayne suggestions even though their superfans will undoubtedly disagree with my selections and break out the pitchforks, torches, tar, and feathers. And then there’s this: Fountains of Wayne’s massively overplayed aforementioned hit, Stacy’s Mom, is representative of nearly all of their compositions. They write songs which ride the razor’s edge of novelty, and that isn’t a compliment; sometimes too cute is too much and a tune quickly wears out its welcome. Worse still, maybe it never deserved that welcome in the first place. I really do like and appreciate this band, but if I never heard Stacy’s Mom again it might be too soon. Would I tolerate or, dare I say it, enjoy the song had it not graced the airwaves 28,358 times during my formative years? I’ll never know. But at least the songs below have the perfect balance of cute and class. Sidenote: the only band in history I think has successfully and consistently straddled rock-novelty without falling off the horse into the embarrassing or annoying is Presidents of the United States of America (one of my absolute favorite bands everrr). Nearly all of their songs are about either insects or animals but I love every single one. So kudos to them. Back on topic!

The Obvious Choice:
Radiation Vibe
Album: Fountains of Wayne (1996)

 

The opening track from their debut full-length album (followed immediately by Sink to the Bottom; I’m sure I’ll take flak for not choosing that track instead). I’d gush about this song if I could, but I can’t put my finger on exactly why I find it so entrancing. When it comes on the radio I can’t turn the dial. Maybe it’s that nostalgia that I find so compelling. It’s a great representation of alt-rock in the mid ’90s.

Vocals: A fun and memorable chorus. Harmonies.
Guitar: Surprisingly memorable guitar part.
Bass: Forgettable bass line.
Drums: Nothing special.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

Runner-up:
Traffic and Weather

Available now! Download here

Album: Traffic and Weather (2007)

 

The title track and my overall favorite song by the band (although I did seriously consider selecting Strapped For Cash from this album). Just cute enough to grab your attention and sexy enough to keep it. Catchy as the dickins.

Vocals: One of my favorite refrains of all time. Nice harmonies.
Guitar: Bad-ass.
Bass: Pretty buried and/or inactive.
Drums: Standard stuff, I think.
Keys: There’s at least synthesizer for this slot, but possibly something else… whatever’s making that weird bubbly noise.
Miscellaneous: Fades out… like the band after their 2011 album…

Runner-up:
Hackensack
Album: Welcome Interstate Managers (2003)

A gentle love song about the one that got away… and probably isn’t ever coming back. I have a feeling he never had her anyway…

Vocals: Probably the only song with Christopher Walken mentioned in the lyrics. Nice harmonies.
Guitar: A couple of guitar parts give authors some leeway.
Bass: A nice bass line.
Drums: Boring drums.
Keys: Very subtle synthesizer.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

First Aid Kit

Background: The music sounds like it’s from the American West but these sisters are actually Swedish. That should be enough to capture your attention, but if somehow it isn’t, read the description of the Obvious Choice.

 

The Obvious Choice:
My Silver Lining

Now available! Download here

Album: Stay Gold (2014)

We all know that the soundtrack to a movie can help to enhance a certain scene and make it even more memorable, but rarely does that occur during a video games. I first heard this gorgeous song while playing Tales from the Borderlands and it instantly captured my imagination and was stuck in my head for a week. It makes me want to learn how to ride a horse, build a time machine, travel back to the year 1870 and then ride horseback across the desert into the sunset after saving a town from bandit raids and delivering justice to the outlaws of the Old West. Yippie-ki-yay, emmereffer!

Vocals: Female lead vocals with female harmony throughout most of the song. Fun back-and-forth vocals at the end.
Guitar: Sounds like a hand-cramp waiting to happen.
Bass: Bass sets the pace.
Drums: Standard stuff.
Keys: Haunting strings that should definitely be charted here. They are an integral part of this song.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending. The above video features scenes from the excellent adventure game by Telltale Games.

Runner-up:
Wolf
Album: [single] (2012)

 

This is a first for my many suggestions… a single without an album! There’s something compelling about this song… It feels rustic and adventurous, even if you don’t pay attention to the lyrics. But you should. Reminds me of Furr by another band I suggested earlier, Blitzen Trapper.

 

Vocals: Some challenging falsetto. Dual female vocals with harmony during the chorus.
Guitar: I sense another hand-cramp incoming.
Bass: It’s there.
Drums: I don’t know if they’re interesting or difficult, but I love the sound of these drums.
Keys: Some strings or a synthesizer or something.
Miscellaneous: Abrupt ending.

Runner-up:
Heaven Knows
Album: Stay Gold (2014)

 

A delightfully cute song about liars. Speaking of liars, I broke a rule. This is the second song from this album, but much of the band’s earlier material lacks drums entirely, so choices had to be made. You’re welcome for this gem, though.

Vocals: More gorgeous female vocals with gorgeous female harmonies. More fun back-and-forth. And I want to scream “STRAIGHT TO HELL!” as a talkie!
Guitar: This chordfest is a welcome change of pace from above! A nice lil’ pickin’ solo.
Bass: A simple but joyous bass line.
Drums: Sounds fun to ignorant me.
Keys: A subtle organ.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

Hieroglyphics

 

Background: Considering this entry is about a hip-hop collective of West Coast MCs and DJs, I had a strange mix of ease and difficulty selecting songs by them to include here. These guys had a major impact on me artistically and includes one of your favorite MCs, even if you don’t realize it: Del tha Funkee Homosapien. You know him as the rapper featured in Gorillaz mega-hit Clint Eastwood. Finally, someone let the rest of these terrific performers out of their cages and into one of the customs below!

 

The Obvious Choice:
Off The Record
Album: 3rd Eye Vision (1998)

 

Impressive displays of lyricism from Casual, A-Plus, Del, and Tajai with fun for the whole band! Step into the arena. These verses are off the hook.

Vocals: No chorus, just rappers, rappers, rappers.
Guitar: Sexy but subtle guitar.
Bass: Seriously, this bass part is DOPE.
Drums: The songs needs them, but they’re purposely forgettable.
Keys: Holy moly. This is a keyboardists dream! I NEED to see somebody tackle this…
Miscellaneous: Fades out.

 

Runner-up:
Make Your Move
Album: Full Circle (2003)

 

A mellow hip-hop tune about doing what must be done to stack cheddar that, against all odds, translates fantastically into Rock Band.

Vocals: Rapped vocals by Casual and Pep Love with pitched and absolutely gorgeous refrain by Goapele with harmonies.
Guitar: Repetitive and simple but beautiful.
Bass: Repetitive and simple but sexy.
Drums: Repetitive and simple but nothin’.
Keys: If you chart the xylophone here, this is the most varied part of this song and would be a treat for keyboardists. Awesome!
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:
7 Sixes
Album: Full Circle (2003)

 

A first for my suggestions: this jam has no guitar part but there are a total of seven rappers here. Each MC in the group is given time to rap six lines and dazzle you with their lyricism, machismo, wit, and wordplay. Plus, nearly every word in Del’s verse starts with the letter V. Wunderbar!

Vocals: Pep Love & Tajai & Casual & A-Plus & Del & Phesto & Opio. Geeze.
Guitar: None.
Bass: Fun.
Drums: Dumb.
Keys: Yum.
Miscellaneous: Fading ending, but not a problem.

[Atruejedi]

Lyrics Born

 

Background: The man transcends genres. He raps, he sings, and his music is instrumentally everywhere at once. While his later albums are a bit less Rock Band friendly, they’re still excellent, but I skewed to earlier in his career and double-dipped on his compilation remix album because the instrumentals were just so awesome. Let me prove it!

 

The Obvious Choice:
Pack Up
Album: Later That Day… (2003)

 

Hard-hitting, bad-ass, unpitched rapping lyrics. This song will make members of the same/opposite sex love/fear you (choose your combinations). This is the original version, not one of the 872 remixes.

 

Vocals: One vocalist needed. Talkies for rapping the verses, pitched vocals for the chorus.
Guitar: Lots of cool little things going on with guitar here.
Bass: Fairly repetitive but still cool.
Drums: A simple but hard-hitting drum part.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: Fades out, but in a good way.

 

Runner-up:
I Changed My Mind (Stereo MCs Rattlesnake Mix)
Album: Same !@#$ Different Day (2005)

 

Some people might complain this isn’t actually hip-hop, but whatever. I mean, come on, this Asian-American rapper has a song explicitly called Rules Were Meant To Be Broken. I’m just following his example. Either way, it’s quite catchy and instrumentally interesting.

 

Vocals: One vocalist needed. This entire song is pitched.
Guitar: Awesome guitar part.
Bass: Awesomer bass part.
Drums: [adjective] drum part.
Keys: Synthesizer.
Miscellaneous: Like those high on marijuana plants, this ending is faded. This remix is not the original.

 

Runner-up:
Do That There (Young Einstein Hoo-Hoo Mix)
Album: Same !@#$ Different Day (2005)

 

The lyrics are absurd, it’s unpitched rapping with pitched choruses, and the instruments are all at least acceptably fun. Winner!

 

Vocals: The verses are mostly rapped, but some parts should be pitched. The chorus should be pitched.
Guitar: Subtle and repetitive but an adequate challenge.
Bass: Funky bass part.
Drums: To my untrained ear, it sounds pretty cool.
Keys: Keys of some sort on occasion.
Miscellaneous: Fades out like a high top hair cut in 1991. This remix is not the original.

[Atruejedi]

Fitz & The Tantrums

 

Background: Okay, let’s get the two awkward parts out of the way. One: yes, this band has no guitarist. Two: yes, HandClap by this group is available as Rock Band 4 DLC. Should these two facts completely disqualify Fitz & The Tantrums from appearing on my suggestions list? I’d argue no. Why? Two reasons. One: while HandClap is a great pop song, it should never have been released for Rock Band, especially when there are so many better songs by these guys, particularly on their first album (which I worship and you really should give a spin). Two: their bass parts are incredible. Don’t believe me? I’ll give you two tunes to tantalize your tastebuds earbuds ears. Dig this:

 

The Obvious Choice:
MoneyGrabber

Now available! Download here

Album: Pickin’ Up The Pieces (2010)

 

I saw a live cover of this at a local arts festival and holy moly did the crowd love this. I can’t blame them: it’s a phenomenally fun song, especially live, and especially by the writers themselves. Fitz & The Tantrums know how to perform live… too bad most of the songs they now perform are vastly inferior to this selection. You will be jumping around.

 

Vocals: Really, really fun for a male and female vocalist together. A definite party pleaser!
Guitar: None. Horns could go here, though.
Bass: Oh my goodness what a tastey jam…
Drums: I feel like they’re awesome. But it might just be the song itself.
Keys: Piano.
Miscellaneous: Fades out, like the original sound the band had…

 

Runner-up:
Breakin’ the Chains of Love
Album: Pickin’ Up The Pieces (2010)

 

To be honest, all subsequent albums released after their first are packed full of pop music, and while I enjoy those songs for what they are, I really miss their earlier, more organic sound. Because of that, I picked another song from their debut. I’m hoping some day they’ll return to form and make more music like this… but I’m not hopeful. Success has changed them. But don’t frown ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_frown.gif” />. Instead, smile ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_smile.gif” /> as you enjoy what they were…

 

Vocals: Some nice, thick layers. Lead male vocals with prominent female backing vocals and harmonies.
Guitar: None, but like above, horns could go here.
Bass: Putting the fun in funky. Yowza.
Drums: I hope they’re fun, because they sound fun.
Keys: Yup.
Miscellaneous: I know it’s cheating, but I wish “Make you god damn pay!“ were charted like a talkie so I could scream it. I’ll just do it anyway and break combo, no biggie. Oh, and it fades out. Sorry.

[Atruejedi]

Band of Skulls

 

Background: I can’t think of a more consistent band than these Brits. Now four albums deep, every album is as solid as bone and rocks just as hard. I consider them the best rock ‘n’ roll band out of the United Kingdom in the past decade and one of my overall favorite bands ever. That being said, I am cheating a lot with this post… because these guys do have a song available on the Rock Band Network and I’ve played the living digits out of it, but it is an utter travesty that I haven’t (yet, I hope!) been able to get the Rock Band Harmonies Project upgrade to work with it. That song is so deserving of having dual vocal parts that not only will I suggest a band already represented in my library, I will suggest four songs by them. Such is my dedication. However, to make up for this, I will mostly select not-so-obvious choices highlighting their female singer/bassist/giant Emma on vocals instead of male singer/guitarist/biker Russell. (Note: While it wasn’t explicitly one of my suggestions, Sweet Sour is now available!)

 

The Obvious Choice:
Black Magic

Now available! Download here

Album: By Default (2016)

Put your black magic over me
I never gave up so easily
‘Cause every insult is an injury
When you put your black magic over me

 

Simply put, it’s a fantastic rock ‘n’ roll song. I’ve seen the band twice live, but not recently enough to see this performed. I cannot wait for that opportunity. This song kicks tons of bee-hind and perfectly encapsulates what kind of music Band of Skulls makes. If you like this song, you’ll like the entire album, which goes for every effort they release.

 

Vocals: Cool lyrics. Beautiful harmonies.
Guitar: Bad-ass guitar.
Bass: Once the chorus kicks in, it gets unexpectedly interesting.
Drums: Sounds like it could be tricky.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:
Himalayan
Album: Himalayan (2014)

Put on your Bonnie and Clyde grin, your crackle and sin
Gonna hear the coin drop, that’s when it’s gonna begin

 

The title track off of their third album, and that’s the reason I chose it over so many other solid options. If you liked the Obvious Choice, you’ll like this, too.

 

Vocals: Russel sings the melody during the verses with Emma on harmonies, but they swap during the chorus! Cool!
Guitar: Definitely a guitar song. Rockin’ solo.
Bass: Nothing spectacular.
Drums: No opinion.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: Crisp and abrupt ending.

 

Runner-up:
Patterns
Album: Baby Darling Doll Face Honey (2009)

There’s four for the reason and five for the tricks
But nothing’s going to save you from the six six six

 

While the Rock Band Network already gave us this album’s “real” Obvious Choice I Know What I Am, most fans would probably default to Death By Diamonds and Pearls as the next runner-up and therefore Obvious Choice of this post. I’m going to pass on it, however, because while it is nevertheless bad-ass, I wanted to choose a song featuring Emma more than Russel on vocals because it’s nice to have a female vocalist featured more often in Rock Band. But don’t worry, dudes, guitarist Russel sings backup nearly the entire time and will keep you busy!

 

Vocals: Creepy, haunting, catchy female lead vocals with a fun simple chorus.
Guitar: Rock ‘n’ roll chords drive this song.
Bass: A steady rhythm of nothing special so you can sing lead vocals like Emma!
Drums: No opinion.
Keys: None.
Miscellaneous: This song could almost have a simultaneous three-way guitar-bass-drum solo, which probably makes no sense but could work.

 

Runner-up:
Navigate
Album: Sweet Sour (2012)

We are drifting on a deep sea
And I can’t navigate the stars like my father

 

Wow, what an album. It bears repeating that nearly any song by Band of Skulls would be perfect for Rock Band, but I chose this little number (over such excellent jams as Sweet Sour, Wanderluster, The Devil Takes Care of His Own, and You’re Not Pretty (But You Got It Goin’ On) because it’s quite different from the other picks and one of my personal favorites by the band for that exact reason. It one starts slow but builds a bit as it goes. Yes, it’s long and gentle, but it’s masterpiece.

 

Vocals: Emma on melody, Russel on harmony, which is constantly sung alongside the main part.
Guitar: Lots of picking.
Bass: Simple bass part, but if you want to be accurate, you have to play it the whole time you sing melody.
Drums: Really easy. In fact, sometimes there are no drums at all.
Keys: No keys, but there are some strings buried here somewhere.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

Noah and The Whale

 

Background: They have a bunch of albums, but the release hosting the tracks below is far and away their best. Because I was dead-set on choosing at least one song from this record right off the bat and I barely considered their other (in my opinion inferior and depressing) efforts, I’m only going to pick two tunes by these disbanded Britons. It won’t make you a fan of the band, but it will make you a fan of the songs.

 

The Obvious Choice:
L.I.F.E. G.O.E.S. O.N.
Album: Last Night on Earth (2011)

On my last night on Earth, I’ll pay a high price
to have no regrets and be done with my life

 

The title track soaked in wisdom, anecdotes, and infectious instrumentals and hooks. It would be difficult for a human to dislike this track. Yes, that’s a challenge.

 

Vocals: Smooth vocals and lyrics with nice group backing vocal with harmonies.
Guitar: Strummin’ lil’ chords, then pickin’ a bit. It’s quite nice.
Bass: Electronic bass lines. Brrrrrrrp.
Drums: Standard stuff.
Keys: Violin could go here.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:
Tonight’s the Kind of Night
Album: Last Night on Earth (2011)

Tonight’s the kind of night
Where everything could change

 

Hope. Change. It’s morning in America. Make music great again. This song makes me feel like anything is possible.

Vocals: Great soulful backing vocals.
Guitar: Alt-strumming a single string most of the time, but during the refrain there are chords.
Bass: Nothing special.
Drums: They sound fun!
Keys: Piano!
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[MrPrezident]

I would love to work on some Vandals songs one day but Josh Freese’s drums are quite daunting. Actually I can see myself doing a few of these songs in the fall. Thanks for keeping this thread going!

Keeping the content Canadian since 2017!

SomeOldGuys: https://db.c3universe.com/songs/all/__user/someoldguys
MrPrezident: https://db.c3universe.com/songs/all/__user/MrPrezident

[Atruejedi]

April Smith and the Great Picture Show

 

Background: April Smith and her backing band only ever released one album, but it’s full of short, catchy tunes that would fit well in Rock Band, especially for women with powerful pipes. Or men. I don’t judge. Since there’s only one album, all three choices must come from it. I’ve selected three tracks which felt the most varied while still being a great fit for the game and fun for all participants but still focused the most on the vocals and lyrics.

 

The Obvious Choice:
Movie Loves a Screen
Album: Songs for a Sinking Ship (2010)

A smile means things turned out alright
Despite an oversight or two
I just want to mean something to you

 

Not my personal first choice, but it’s fun for the whole band and It’s adorable… and if you think about it, kind of co-dependent… Ah, crap. Did I just ruin this song for myself? Nah, it’s too fun to over-analyze.

 

Vocals: A beautiful female voice backed by the same beautiful female voice singing harmony. Good luck with that note near the end!
Guitar: Sounds like a ukulele, actually!
Bass: Simple but enjoyable.
Drums: Could be fun.
Keys: No, but there’s a trumpet.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-up:
Colors
Album: Songs for a Sinking Ship (2010)

Like a lighthouse guides a shipwrecked sailor safely from the sea
I’ll wear your colors ’til you come back home to me

 

I don’t know why, but I get such a Beatles vibe from this song for some reason, and that’s obviously a compliment. I mean, clearly it sounds nothing like the Beatles vocally or lyrically, but… something! And why do I suddenly want to work in a factory? Or build a railroad? I’m so conflicted!

 

Vocals: Catchy lyrics and gorgeous singing as usual.
Guitar: Guitar and some ukulele again, I think.
Bass: Like a piston.
Drums: Stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp.
Keys: Nope.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending. And come on. There’s a kazoo solo.

 

Runner-up:
Terrible Things
Album: Songs for a Sinking Ship (2010)

Oh how you’ll run
If you knew a single one
All of the things that I’ve done

 

This one is creepy, not cute. Chick’s got issues. But her voice is so compelling.

 

Vocals: Somehow she sounds simultaneously sexy and tortured. I’m conflicted. No harmonies.
Guitar: The standard chord strumming experience, but it’s on-and-off.
Bass: Not bad.
Drums: Could be fun.
Keys: Truncated but haunting organ.
Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Author]

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