[Atruejedi]

Florence + The Machine

Background: I boarded the Florence train a bit late, so I’ll admit I’m still absorbing her and the band’s discography. Some of their best songs don’t seem a good fit for Rock Band (like Shake It Out) or have already been released by Harmonix (the fantastic Dog Days are Over) or our very own authors (the awesome Ship to Wreck is in the database, courtesy of Ruck Bogers 22!) so I’ve tried to select the tunes that would be the most fun to play. Additionally, their latest album just released a few months ago, and I have barely had time to digest it. I expect to disappoint the hardcore fans, but these songs are at least accessible to still-casuals like me. Feedback is welcome!

 

An Obvious Choice:

Rabbit Heart (Raise It Up)

Album: Lungs (2009)

This is a gift

It comes with a price
Who is the lamb

And who is the knife?

 

One of the most memorable songs from the debut album. A solid anthem with charming lyrics.

 

Vocals: An alternating gentle and intense lead vocal part with great group backing vocals.

Guitar: I can’t really tell if there’s a guitar part… lots of stuff is happening at once.

Bass: Yeah, it’s there.

Drums: Sounds fun!

Keys: Lots of choices for this part.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

A Personal Favorite:

What Kind of Man

Album: How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful (2015)

To let me dangle at a cruel angle
Oh, my feet don’t touch the floor
Sometimes you’re half in and then you’re half out
But you never close the door…

 

Starts off gently enough… and then mutates into a banger full of fiery indignation. Hard not to stomp your foot to this one.

 

Vocals: Similar to the first choice, and plenty of fun for the entire band.

Guitar: Yes, there’s a very distinct guitar part for this tune, thankfully.

Bass: Definitely not the star of the show, but it’s there.

Drums: BOOM. BOOM. BOOM. BOOM.

Keys: Take your pick.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

A Fan Favorite:

Kiss with a Fist

Album: Lungs (2009)

You hit me once, I hit you back
You gave a kick, I gave a slap
You smashed a plate over my head
Then I set fire to our bed

 

Probably the most traditional choice for Rock Band. Short, sweet, and rockin’.

 

Vocals: Mostly a song for the lead vocalist, but some backing unisons at the end. Cute, violent lyrics.

Guitar: Definitely a guitar-driven song. With a solo to boot!

Bass: Nothing special, but I’m sure it’ll keep you busy.

Drums: Pretty vanilla to my ear, but that ain’t a bad thing.

Keys: Nope.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[MrPrezident]

I’m gonna add Joel Plaskett “Fasionable People” to my next batch of canadian customs.

 

Thanks buddy!

[Atruejedi]

Sarah Shook and the Disarmers

Background: I got an email about this chick this summer and became an instant fan… and I usually hate country music. This? This is fantastic. The lyrics, the instruments, the twang. I’m certain I’ll eventually chart something by her, so collaborators, take notice!

 

The Obvious Choice:

The Nail

Album: Sidelong (2015)

When I think about the end, and, boy, I think about it often
I can’t decide which one of us will be the nail in this here coffin

 

This playful song about a doomed relationship is sure to be a party favorite! Yes, I’m serious.

 

Vocals: Sounds like devil-tiered vocals to me… and I’ll end up being the one charting it…

Guitar: Classic country stylings.

Bass: Bouncy and fun.

Drums: A rockin’ good time! Makes me wish I knew how to drum.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

Damned If I Do, Damned If I Don’t

Album: Years (2018)

I didn’t mean to stay out ’til the god-damn cows came home
Please believe me, it just happened this way…

 

Drinkin’ too much has consequences… but we’ve all been there, right?

 

Vocals: A bit easier than the Obvious Choice. Thank goodness.

Guitar: More rockabilly-style guitar that reminds me of a less insane Reverend Horton Heat. And a solo!

Bass: Up, down, up, down, up, down, up, down…

Drums: I like it. I want to learn to drum now.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

Fuck Up

Album: Sidelong (2015)

If you tell me what it is that makes your life worth livin’

I’ll be obliged to find a single damn that I’ll be givin’…

 

A bit slower paced than the above choices, but it definitely has heart.

 

Vocals: Vocals are the star, of course. Sarah is special.

Guitar: A nice lil’ solo between the chord fest and picking.

Bass: Nothing special this time.

Drums: Basic stuff.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

I just went through the original post and all the subsequent artist posts to add links to all the customs that are now in the database that have been featured in this thread! I also updated broken video links and image links and added a new entry, Sarah Shook and the Disarmers! I’ll probably be adding more in the future. All this charting has burnt me out. I deserve to listen to music now!

[Atruejedi]

Wishlist Entry – Official DLC already available

Nerf Herder

Background: Fans of Nerf Herder are fortunate enough to have access to two of their (arguably) best songs available on the Rock Band Network and one custom in the database, while singer and songwriter Parry Gripp (above, with the keytar) has an additional five songs on the RBN. But a number of their (arguably) best songs from the band’s (arguably) best album are absent from our libraries. Here are the three missing gems I think we nerd rockers most need:

 

The Obvious Choice:

Nervous Breakdown

Album: American Cheese (2002)

Nervous breakdown… Doc, what should I do?
Never fall in love with a girl from BYU
She came in the record store and I fell down in the stall
Those Salt Lake City girls play kick-ass basketball

 

A simultaneously charming and bad-ass song about having a mental break.

 

Vocals: Fun lyrics and sing-alongs with great harmonies.

Guitar: Classic pop-punk guitar stylings. Power chords and lengthy sustains.

Bass: Rumbling pop-punk goodness.

Drums: Hardcore shiz. It sounds pretty violent.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

High Five Anxiety

Album: American Cheese (2002)

Don’t wanna play on your team in your game
The last one picked
Hey loser!
Hey loser? That’s my name

 

Yeah, another from their American Cheese album. Their best album. Arguably.

 

Vocals: Honestly, see above. Same deal!

Guitar: See above, but this time there’s a solo!

Bass: More rumbling awesomeness.

Drums: A little less intense than above… but not by much.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

Jacket

Album: American Cheese (2002)

I saw the DEVO patch on your sleeve
You were in my jacket but you weren’t with me…

 

For whatever reason, I have fond, nostalgic memories of this song. Sigh…

 

Vocals: It’s a sweet song. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, right?

Guitar: Nerf Herder has one style.

Bass: One style.

Drums: One. Style.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[murlatok]

 

‘Cashmere’ was partially done by MiltoniusPrime and is available in his thread – http://customscreators.com/index.php?/topic/10395-miltoniusprime-081915-green-day-walking-contradiction/?hl=%2Bnerf+%2Bherder

[Atruejedi]

The Front Bottoms

Background: Something about the Front Bottom’s music is compelling. I attribute it all to their singer/songwriter Brian Sella, who is like a big kid writing whatever he wants seemingly without a care for how it’s received. But it works! As a lyricist, he’s definitely got his own style, and his delivery magnifies that. Not all of their songs are great; there are many misses in their discography, but when they hit, they hit. You can find their song Twin Size Mattress in the database courtesy of TomGuy. Above is a picture from their fantastic NPR Tiny Desk Concert you can check out here. Below are the songs I think would be the best fit for Rock Band.

 

The Obvious Choice:

Au revoir (Adios)

Album: Talon of the Hawk (2013)

She says that it’s French… “I know what it means
You don’t have to be so mean…”

 

This sub-two-minute song from their strongest album is charming, emotional, and a great introduction to the Front Bottoms. Starts off pretty slow, but by that two minute mark you’re rocking hard. The perfect way to start your setlist.

 

Sidenote: This album is so good nearly any of the tracks could have been the Obvious Choice. So check out Skeleton, Swear to God the Devil Made Me Do It, and Funny You Should Ask as well.

 

Vocals: Simple, to-the-point lyrics, with harmonies and heart.

Guitar: Perfect for voxtaring.

Bass: You’ll be bored for 60 seconds, but then it’ll be worth it.

Drums: See above.

Keys: Something could probably go here as icing.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

Help

Album: Back on Top (2015)

You say, “This is what I want, motherfucker
Make it happen for me”

 

Honestly, I was sold as soon as soon as I heard the word motherfucker in this poppy of a song.

 

Vocals: The usual disregard for any rhyme or reason for his writing. Which is totally cool.

Guitar: All the instruments work together well, but you want this song because of the vocals.

Bass: It’s there. Nothing special.

Drums: See above… again.

Keys: Yeah, once again, something could probably be charted to keys.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

Peace Sign

Album: Going Grey (2017)

She started talking backwards
But nothing good it brings her
So next time that she sees him
It’ll be peace sign, middle finger

 

A slower selection from a middling album. Probably my favorite track from Going Grey, and it’s got some unique moments, instrumentally.

 

Vocals: Easy-peasy.

Guitar: Lots of chords.

Bass: Shrug. It’s there.

Drums: The kick pedal sounds fun, if I didn’t suck.

Keys: Yup. Something.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Atruejedi]

The Struts

Background: I’m honest to goodness shocked the Struts haven’t had songs released by Harmonix or as customs yet. For shame! This band is such a perfect choice for Rock Band. Fun, exciting, accessible, smart rock ‘n’ roll! The total package. Get to work, authors, and count me in! I mean, look at them! Look at these beautiful British men. Who make awesome music. A modern day Queen.

 

The Obvious Choice:

Put Your Money on Me

Album: Everybody Wants (2014)

It’s true, baby, I sleep ’til noon for breakfast
I have a little smoke then I get up and go
And yes, I’m always two hours late for work, babe
It’s hard being a slave to your body and soul

 

Seriously. If you don’t like this song, something is wrong with you. Seriously. I’d be hard-pressed to name a song that’s more fun than this.

 

Vocals: Great vocals, great harmonies, great sing-alongs, fun lyrics. Woo!

Guitar: A little bit of everything here, and a solo, of course! It sounds incredibly fun!

Bass: Funky fun!

Drums: Body movin’!

Keys: Nope!

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

Kiss This

Available now! Download here

Album: Everybody Wants (2014)

I!

…
Did all I could!

…
So kiss this one more time, ’cause I’m gone for good!

 

If you don’t enjoy this song, I’m done with you. I mean, that’s the song’s theme after all, right?

 

Vocals: The usual disregard for any rhyme or reason for his writing. Which is totally cool.

Guitar: Simply bad-ass.

Bass: Sounds quite fun! It’s got some nuance to it.

Drums: I can dig it.

Keys: Something could go here.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

Mary Go Round

Album: Everybody Wants (2016)

I can’t even pour myself a little wine
‘Cause every glass is stained in your lipstick shine

 

The best new song from the reissued album. It gives me chills, and it’s definitely a different speed than the other choices! A love ballad!

 

Vocals: It’s a ballad! Of course it’s got great vocals!

Guitar: Lots of power chords. And a solo, of course. It’s a ballad. It needs a solo.

Bass: Nothing special.

Drums: Comparatively toned down.

Keys: There are strings, but, eh…

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[murlatok]

 

Body Talks

Album: Young & Dangerous (2018)

Your lips are a conversation

That face is a song

If it’s my imagination

Stop me if I’m wrong

 

I hate sexy songs. For this, I’ll make an exception. Play this at my wedding as I walk down the aisle.

 

Vocals: People will find you attractive if you sing this to them. Make sure to chart the air sucking sounds.

Guitar: Some rockin’ guitar.

Bass: Not as exciting as the above, but still a good time, I’m sure.

Drums: You’ll be tired by the end.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

 

It was just released as RB4 DLC a week ago

[Atruejedi]

It was just released as RB4 DLC a week ago

 

Ha. Well, good! Especially because I prefer the other songs above it in my post. I’ll replace it with something else! And it was released at the same time as Elle King… I’m also a big fan of her! So Harmonix had two great releases in one week. About time ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_wink.gif” />

[Atruejedi]

Marina and the Diamonds

Background: I’ve been a fan of Marina since I first heard her 2015 release Froot. Smart lyrics deviously stored inside accessible, modern pop music. I got to see her that summer and I was one of the only dudes and only straight dudes there. I didn’t realize she was and remains a LGBT community icon because who cares? Good music is good music, and Marina’s got beauty and brains. Having said this, Marina didn’t make her debut in this thread until now because there are a few customs available featuring her in the database. Embarrassingly, I haven’t played any of them. If anybody has, I’d love to hear about your experience! Those are all older songs, so this post will focus on her newer releases… because as an author, these are what I would want to chart.

 

The Obvious Choice:

Froot

Album: Froot (2015)

Hanging around like a fruit on a tree
Waiting to be picked, come on cut me free…

 

grubextrapolate describes it as video game music featuring Lady Gaga. He isn’t far off, but in any battle, Marina kills Gaga.

 

Vocals: Deep and rich. Clever and sweet. Fun and challenging. Her crowning achievement.

Guitar: Definitely something guitar-like during the chorus, but if not, there are definitely seventeen other parts that can be charted here or to keys.

Bass: As murlatok said, this bass line is amazing. Sign me up!

Drums: Predictable.

Keys: Good luck choosing what goes here. Your choices are legion.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending to a very long song.

 

Runner-Up:

Savages

Album: Froot (2015)

I’m not the only one who finds it hard to understand
I’m not afraid of God
I am afraid of Man

 

This song immediately grabbed me because the content just seemed so… unexpected. The album is electro-pop with smart lyrics, but nothing particularly weighty. And then at the end of the album, this hits you. It sure made an impression on me, and cemented my instant fandom.

 

Vocals: Depressing, but I love ’em.

Guitar: Something could go here, but I’m not sure there’s a reason to fill the slot.

Bass: Not as exciting as Froot, but I can dig it.

Drums: Probably another drum machine, but pretty traditional.

Keys: Proper piano.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

Runner-Up:

How to Be a Heartbreaker

Album: Electra Heart (2012)

I love you…

…At least I think I do

 

UNT UNT UNT UNT UNT UNT UNT UNT… find me in the club. Probably the most “traditional” fit for Rock Band.

 

Vocals: This is where the fun begins.

Guitar: Buried at times, but it’s there. You know how these electro-pop songs go…

Bass: At least a bass, plus a lot of bassy things.

Drums: More machine now than man, twisted and evil.

Keys: Uh-huh.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[murlatok]

Love your picks for Marina. But there’s so much more songs I’d like to see eventually authored. Big fan of her debut album, second one got some nice almost-guilty-pleasure-quality-songs (see Primadonna) and the third-one has that special ‘FROOTy’ flavor to it.

 

What I love about her is that she willingly shares multitracks/stems to her songs that potentially can make really quality customs. Unfortunately for now we lack authors for them.

 

Loved playing customs already released in the database. Nice for parties and super fun on everything (though a bit simple). (BTW there are stems available for some of the already released customs – if anyone is willing to take on the job of upgrading already existing charts with stems, shoot me a PM, I’ll gladly supply the audio).

 

PS

As to your suggestions there are also stems available for Froot and How to Be a Heartbreaker. Just letting you know ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_wink.gif” />

[Derek]

First time seeing this thread. Back when I joined the C3 community a while back, I immediately wanted to create something very similar and reading this thread had sort of inspired me to do it. We had a lot of the same ideas for formatting but I will make sure I do enough with the execution to avoid ripping you off. ” src=”/wp-content/uploads/invision_emoticons/default_SA_wink.gif” /> I admire the obvious passion you put into presenting these suggestions, which also have a general recommendation angle. That is to say, I have heard of many of the artists featured in the thread… but I have not necessarily taken the time to listen to them. The few songs I sampled were great though, and I will undoubtedly be scrolling through the first post to see what are currently active as C3 customs. Keep up the great work.

[Dangus]

Wanted to say… i need that Raconteurs pack. But i’d love the entire Counselor’s of the Lonely album at some point haha!

[Atruejedi]

The Refreshments

Background: Unlike a lot of people here, it wasn’t King of the Hill, for which this band performed the opening title theme song, that put them on my musical map. Years ago, I was at a bar my friend owned to hear a local band play a few tunes, and one of the songs mentioned Jean-Luc Picard and divvying up loot at a mission and I was intrigued (and not because it was Star Trek! That’s just the only specific lyric I remembered in my intoxicated state!) I activated the googles and discovered that this song was actually by a band called the Refreshments. The song was called Banditos, and I decided to give the entire album a listen the next day. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that I loved every song. How refreshing! Banditos, which would have been my Obvious Choice, and Hank Hill’s favorite, Yahoos and Triangles, are already available as customs in the database, but I’d love to make a couple more from that album. Roger Clyne is a fantastic lyricist, and while I’m not too familiar with his prolific career beyond the Refreshments, topping this album would be a difficult task for anyone.

 

The Personal Favorite:

Mekong

Album: Fizzy Fuzzy Big & Buzzy (1996)

Barkeep, we need to go around again
One for me and what’s-his-name, my new best friend…

 

I like songs about sadness and alcohol and finding some sort of happiness within it all. This song pretty much encapsulates all that. I adore this one.

 

Vocals: A lovely melody with gorgeous backing harmonies. It would be such a joy to sing this with somebody! And it really rocks during the chorus.

Guitar: There’s a big tempo change during the chorus, where things really heat up for all instruments. And there’s a wicked guitar solo at the end.

Bass: A rollickin’ good time. Sounds really fun throughout the song, and I actually find it less interesting during the chorus.

Drums: Active and tempo-dependent.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

The (Other) Personal Favorite:

Mexico

Album: Fizzy Fuzzy Big & Buzzy (1996)

Well, the good guys and the bad guys well, they never work past noon around here
They’ll sit side by side in the cantinas
Talk to senoritas

And drink warm beer

 

Hey, another song about boozin’. But this one has hookers! No blackjack, though. Sorry.

 

Vocals: Really fun lyrics, delivered almost like a crooner.

Guitar: A standard rock ‘n’ roll guitar part, but with lots of acoustic strumming during the bridge, and a nice electric solo near the end.

Bass: Nothing amazing, but solid.

Drums: They are present.

Keys: Horns!

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

 

A Song from that Other Album:

Broken Record

Album: The Bottle & Fresh Horses (1997)

Well, I fed your dog while you were on vacation
Covered all your shifts for your operation
But when you got back
You still wouldn’t show me your brand new silicone boobs…

 

Their sophomore album is significantly less rockin’ and therefore less awesome, but it has redeeming qualities. This one would probably be the best choice for Rock Band.

 

Vocals: You tell a story like a broken record. Purposely repetitive in spots, but the verses have fun lyrics.

Guitar: A delightful riff that would make for a fun time, and a solo!

Bass: Takes a back seat to the guitar.

Drums: Standard stuff.

Keys: None.

Miscellaneous: Crisp ending.

[Author]

Posts