“0-60 in the Blink of an Eye”:
This week’s Rivals Challenge: “0-60 in the Blink of an Eye” shines the spotlight on songs that can serve as the propulsive soundtrack to life’s most adrenaline-fueled moments. Whether cruising down the highway, getting amped up for a big game, or just letting off steam, the new DLC coming this Thursday in the Rock Band Music Store – Alkaline Trio “Mercy Me” and Starcrawler “Runaway” – are tracks that deliver the fast-paced goods in a big way.
Released as the second single from Alkaline Trio’s 2005 collection, Crimson, “Mercy Me” is a concise two minutes and forty-nine seconds of melodic, radio-ready ear-candy buoyed by clear musical chops. Bassist Dan Andriano helps hold down the low end with deliberate, solid 16th-note fretwork that locks in nicely with the drums, while the guitars provide fuzzy, fizzy power-chords that help maintain the song’s intensity from start to finish. Meanwhile, guitarist/vocalist Matt Skiba’s clean, controlled delivery of the lyrics merit a closer listen, as the content is considerably darker than the bouncy, effervescent music might suggest (somebody give this guy a hug).
For over two decades, Alkaline Trio has been thrilling fans with their infectious songs and their recently released EP – cleverly titled E.P. – provides more of the same. Catch the boys while they’re out on tour, stateside, through the end of October. www.alkalinetrio.com
From Starcrawler’s new disc, She Said, “Runaway” is a full-tilt banger. The whole affair manages the tricky maneuver of both sounding and feeling like a product of the heady, hard & heavy glory days of stadium concert spectacle while simultaneously coming across as pointedly contemporary and “of the moment.” No mean feat. However you view it, this LA-based five-piece really hits their stride with this compelling slice of anthemic rock & roll. Arrow De Wilde’s vocals ring clear as a bell, but with enough casual snarl and lyrical darkness to keep the danger-level palpable. Driving, relentless rhythms courtesy of precise and assertive bass and drum work lead to a big chorus while punchy, crunchy, guitars feature throughout, with some nifty lead licks punctuating transitions.
Each of these caffeinated fist-pumpers are included in the Season 28 Season Pass. Get yours today and save big on the entire season of DLC.
Alkaline Trio “Mercy Me” and Starcrawler “Runaway” are available for $1.99 each.
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*Please note that this week’s DLC tracks will be available for purchase on Thursday, September 22nd.