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ALBUM ANNIVERSARY: DJ SHADOW- ENTRODUCING…

Thirty years ago an album came out that not only flipped hip hop on its side but, also pioneered a whole new wave of influence and inspiration in all of music. Entroducing…. by DJ Shadow is an absolute game changing masterpiece that stretches the bounds of all genes.

Released September 16, 1996, DJ Shadow aka Josh Davis, Entroducing, intrigued and introduced legions of people and new fans to the world of making music based on samples. While sampling isn’t new, as it’s been done forever, this was however a new way to create whole songs and albums. So much so in fact that Entroducing would go on in 2001 to be recognized in the Guinness Book Of Records as “the first completely sampled album.” The only pieces of equipment Shadow used to produce the album were the AKAI MPC60 II 12-bit sampling drum machine, a pair of turntables and a copy of Pro-Tools given to him by Dan The Automator. DJ Shadow would edit and layer samples to create new beats and tracks of varying moods and tempos.

Mixing hip hop, soul, r&b, funk, jazz, rock ambience and more created the perfect blend. Across an hour plus, the way Entroducing captures your attention needs to be studied. It doesn’t matter what you mainly listen to, once you are in the midst of listening. The inception of this album idea began in 1994. Spending hours at a time digging for records and singles, the samples struck a chord.

Each song has its own vibe and will evoke different feelings. A track by track run down doesn’t do this album or its songs justice. The ones most recognizable like “Organ Donor,” “Midnight In A Perfect World” and “Building Steam With A Grain Of Salt” have become classic and timeless. While others like “Mutual Step,” which samples Bjork, “Napalm Brain/Scatter Brain,” “The Number Song” which contains samples of Metallica’s “Orion,” and Changeling/Transmission 1” which samples Tangerine Dream, have long been fan favorites and have amassed a cult like reputation. No matter what you’re listening to on here you’ll be in audio heaven.

To this day, I still love putting this album on during a nice drive or even to go to bed too. There’s so many different things and sounds to explore with each listen. That repeat factor has played a big part as to why Entroducing is an absolute classic masterpiece. The entire DJ Shadow catalog is a gem with more styles and vibes to explore.

DJ Shadow- Entroducing…:

ALBUM RANK: KILLSWITCH ENGAGE

After the decline of nu-metal in the mid 2000’s, the hunger for heavier music became rabid. The polarizing “New Wave Of American Heavy Metal” took the best of the three worlds of heavy metal, hardcore and punk and laid a forever legacy and foundation for generations to come. One of the first names that comes to mind when talking about this era is Killswitch Engage.

Killswitch Engage has the unique perspective to have essentially three chapters so far. What is really interesting about this, is to hear the evolution of a band through twists and turns both professionally and personally. These lessons play out through the music and lyrics. When listening back through all their albums, certain one of course will always be classics but, hearing the others with a different thought process makes those stand out in different ways.

Below is the Audioeclectica Album Rank of all nine Killswitch Engage studio albums.

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ALBUM RANK UPDATED: CONVERGE

When you have such a storied career like Converge it gets harder and harder to put certain things like their albums into a ranking order. Since the release of their tenth album, Love Is Not Enough, and now eleventh, Hum Of Hurt, I have been on quite the Converge listening kick. After listening through their catalog and spending a good amount of time with their new album, I do believe I have a very definitive ranking of Converge’s ten studio albums. While not every album can be the best, each record surely leaves a lasting mark on their history as well as influence and inspiration of so many other bands.

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ANTICIPATED ALBUMS: PUSCIFER- NORMAL ISN’T

Over the course of the last few years Puscifer has become more than a side project. In fact, I’m actually glad that it has evolved further past that aspect and into it’s own entity. While it started as a sort of tongue in cheek project, the lyrical urgency of the last album and into the latest, Normal Isn’t, shows Puscifer is more than what the surface shows. The new album, Normal Isn’t, already is emitting sweet post-punk, alternative rock and electro energy. The first single “Self Evident” strikes quite the topical nerve lyrically. Then the second “Pendulum” really ignites the post-punk fire. And the latest “ImpetuoUs” has a way about it that sways into the Nine Inch Nails realm. Which is fine by me. It does have me wondering if there is any subconscious Tapeworm memories that crept in. Just a theory. I’m quite looking forward to this new album and where else it goes. Normal Isn’t sure hits the world and officially arrives on February 06, 2026 via Puscifer Entertainment/Alchemy Recordings with a full North American tour to follow!

Self Evident:

Pendulum:

ImpetuoUs:

END OF ALBUM SONGS: JOY DIVISION- I REMEMBER NOTHING

No matter how many times I’ve listened to Joy Division’s Unknown Pleasures, I always find something new to love about it. For a long time I’ve been really getting into all the sounds and instruments they used on this album and live. Which brings me to today’s article. The final song on Unknown Pleasures, “I Remember Nothing.” This song, is truly remarkable. The dissonance and space throughout the whole song is stunning. From the way the drums and bass are so subtle yet at the same time, chilling. Then you add in the vocals and the delivery and how that sits like a cloud. The use of synthesizers on here is stark but poignant. And then you add in the added effects of smashing bottles in such a timely manner that, it in an eerie way almost “brightens” the mood. Call me crazy but, there’s something really intense about all this. Without a doubt, Unknown Pleasures is an absolute perfect album. It’s in my top 25 of all time and it’s not leaving there ever!

Joy Division- I Remember Nothing:

BAND OF THE WEEK: MINOR STRUT
2025

For the last few years as a part of The Cobalt Presents and putting on shows around the Los Angeles area, I have come across a lot of bands. There are a few that have really left a lasting impression on me. It’s pretty awesome to have booked a band almost 5 years ago and be able to watch them become an absolute powerhouse of a band. With that in mind I’d like to present the band of the week, Minor Strut.

The band formed in 2014 and have been a consistent presence throughout the LA scene since. Over time, the band has worked hard to develop their sound and style and have really grown into great musicians and performers. Their alternative rock sound has roots in the 90’s and early 00’s sound via bands like Paramore, Radiohead, Incubus, Muse and more. I’d even throw the Pixies in that batch. Coryn Cahill (vocals), Ethan Nguyen (guitar), Marquis Miranda (bass), Aiden Kunhardt (drums), and Dylan Warner (rythm guitar) have become a young band to watch out for! Keep your eyes and ears open for what’s to come

Gotta Tell You:

https://youtu.be/wFwm8DG9xwE?si=oFL03-LcWAMZjk1m

OK 01:

https://youtu.be/ZYr3jkAyylo?si=2Ev2bAAmLWmsk8ft

Bodysnatchers (Radiohead Cover):

https://youtu.be/-aihUwrJIyM?si=E_yzTkC4-yvgVqNg

MINOR STRUT ONLINE:

http://www.minorstrut.com

https://instagram.com/minorstrut

LIVE SHOW REVIEW: PANTERA AT THE FORUM

The last time I saw Pantera take the stage was 2001. That alone is a crazy thought. Obviously we all know what happened after that. What came about in the past couple years is an absolute tribute to what the band created and tore through the 90’s with. People will find any reason to complain and be negative about it but, the bottom line is, Pantera lives on and we can all get to enjoy the songs again and be amongst those that love the band and what they bring. This evening at The Forum in Los Angeles was nothing short of a fantastic show and performance.

It’s funny, when it was first announced that Pantera was back in sorts, I had this crazy yet awesome idea in my mind and it actually came true. As the clock hit 9:00pm and the lights went down, a playback began and it happened to be “Suicide Note Part I” against a montage video of Dime and Vinnie moments. Then as that ended and the kabuki curtain dropped, BANG, “Suicide Note Part II” erupts to start everything off. I’ve thought about this for the past couple years and to see it happen was pretty badass. From there it was a barrage of classics, deep cuts and fan favorites like “Strength Beyond Strength,” 5 Minutes Alone,” “Hellbound,” “This Love,” “I’m Broken,” “Mouth For War,” one of my all time favorites “10’s,” and so many more bangers. For over an hour and 40 minutes, Phil, Rex, Zakk and Charlie ripped Los Angeles a new one! I’ve got to say it was great to hear and see Phil and Rex on stage together again and both sounded great. Zakk definitely does Dime justice on these songs. And he does it without stepping on what Dime did. He’s brought a little bit of a dirtier tone to the songs giving them a bit of new life and actually darker in vibes. Charlie if you don’t already know is a beast on the drums but, gee golly, was he murdering these drums. He’s another that does Vinnie justice as well as adding an extra pep to his step on the songs. You really couldn’t ask for two better guys to step into those roles.

Direct support for the evening were the Vikings, Amon Amarth. It’s been a while since I’ve seen these gents and they still put on a show. It’s definitely a fun time and musically it’s very metal. Those Norwegians and Swedes really know how to write metal riffs. They definitely had a great energy on stage and kept the crowd entertained and engaged. Amon are one of those bands though that once you’ve seen them, you’ve pretty much seen “their show.” And opening the show was King Parrot from Australia. I saw these guys years ago open for Down. They have a ton of energy and they mix punk, grind core and death metal into one hell of a buzz saw of noise. While only 25 minutes on stage they made the most out of it.

What a great night all together. Pantera sounded great and really delivered a great set and show. If they do continue on, and why wouldn’t they, I truly hope that they explore more of the catalog and play songs never played live, haven’t been played in years, and some more deep cuts. My favorite Pantera album is The Great Southern Trendkill and that album definitely needs more love live! If you get the chance to see this incarnation of Pantera, you should. It’s not only a blast, it really just feels good!

Overall Rating: A

Review and Photos By: Brian Lacy

Pantera Setlist:

Intro- Suicide Note Part I (tape)

01) Suicide Note Part II

02) Hellbound

03) 5 Minutes Alone

04) Strength Beyond Strength

05) Mouth For War

06) Goddamn Electric (w/ Phil Guitar Solo)

07) Becoming

08) I’m Broken

09) 10’s

10) I’ll Cast A Shadow

11) This Love

12) Cowboys From Hell

ENCORE

13) A New Level

14) Walk

15) Domination/Hollow

16) Fucking Hostile

ALBUM REVIEW: DEFTONES – PRIVATE MUSIC

I’m sure I’m not only one that has been a Deftones fan for over 30 years. What’s even crazier is seeing all these young kids now getting into the band all these years into their career. The resurgence of Deftones has been quite interesting to watch. While their past couple albums have seemed pretty lackluster and clearly not very inspired, their new album Private Music is the band we all know and love firing on all cylinders again. Everyone in the band really seems into the new album and feeling that fire again.

Private Music is the album we’ve been waiting to be the follow up to Koi No Yokan. Deftones when they are focused like this are unstoppable. The ethereal and ambient sounds mixed with the heavy and more spacey, delicate riffs, along with the always pulsating and driving rhythmic nature are at peak performance on this album. From the moment “My Mind Is A Mountain” begins you can feel the energy simmering to a boil and from there it’s an absolute trip. the ride you go on through this record is uplifting, optimistic and directly channelled. Songs like “Ecdysis,” “Infinite Source,” “Souvenir,” make up one hell of a part of the trip! These 3 songs back to back to back is otherworldly. Listening you’ll hear what I mean. “Milk Of The Madonna” should have been the first single released but, that’s a topic for a whole other time. This track has this really cool Saturday NightWrist vibe to it, giving a nice little nod to that album. Side note, Saturday Night Wrist, while it was a divided time for the band, it’s their most underrated album. There’s plenty of other throwback elements like on “Cut Hands” and “Metal Dream.” The one track though that really has me is the final song “Departing The Body.” When you listen to this song it really sinks its teeth in and gently breaks the skin and the emotion pour out is beautiful. Working with Nick Raskulinecz again really helped make this album truly complete.

Private Music is one of those albums that makes you want to put it on repeat. Deftones have been able to connect with people for years and this album is another example of how truly artistic and meaningful their music is. Chino sounds crisp, rejuvenated and roaring. Stephen Carpenter’s playing on this album is back to what we know he can do. Abe Cunningham is still one of the best drummers in all of rock not to mention, he still brings in fresh tasty beats. Frank Delgado has really come into his own over the year with his soundscapes and here it’s truly on display. Fred Sablan brings in a very full tone and uses the space to his advantage. All the best elements of Deftones are here for you to listen to! 

Overall Rating: 9/10

Deftones- Private Music:

LIVE SHOW REVIEW: REBA MEYERS AT THE MOROCCAN LOUNGE

When it was announced that Reba Meyers would be going on a solo tour, I knew I had to go. Reba’s Clouded World EP recently was released and after my first listen through, I had a feeling live these songs would be even more special. On a quite perfect Sunday evening in Downtown Los Angeles at The Moroccan Lounge, Reba Meyers definitely left a lasting impression on me and it was one of the most genuine and artistic performances I’ve seen all year.

With minimal lights on, the right amount of ambient noise and armed with guitars galore, Reba took the stage intro t of an audience that was enthralled from the first note. Songs like “Got Your Hold On Me,” “Clouded World,” were breathtaking live. The passion that was pouring out during was real and you could feel it from the stage to the audience. One song in particular “Bring Us All Together” really struck a chord with me. There was something else about this song that gave me chills in the best way possible. It’s one of those songs that can lock you in a trance. When the set was over, I didn’t want it to end. The couple of new songs Reba played has me even more excited for what’s to come on her upcoming full length album.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the direct support band of the night, Melted Bodies. This was the first time I’ve heard or seen this band and I loved every second of it. It’s part industrial metal, part punk and part experimental/psychedelic and they definitely had my attention. Playing against a very stark and dim lighting, Melted Bodies were captivating and have a driving rhythm section that is infectious. I’m definitely keeping this band on my radar!

All in all this was a great show and evening. It’s shows like this and artists like Reba that keeps me doing Audioeclectica and still loving music as much as I do. Truly you should really check out Reba’s music as well as Melted Bodies.

Overall Show Rating: A

Review and Photos By: Brian Lacy

Reba Photos:

Melted Bodies:

SONG OF THE WEEK: THE ANTI GROUPIES- I CAN’T

The Anti Groupies are one of the most exciting and best up and coming bands in all of the Southern California area! I’ve said it before about these ladies that they are the rock band we’ve been waiting for! They have the right attitude, songs, performance, can play their asses off and a great take no prisoners approach. Did I mention their songs?! Every song released since their inception has gotten better and better. Their most recent single “I Can’t” is one of the best “summer songs” I’ve heard in a long time. Not just that, it’s super anthemic in a fun catchy way. Cassidy, Isabella, Sydney and Kyla have a bond that not a lot of bands have and their authentic selves shine oh so bright. I’m personally quite excited for what’s to come for The Anti Groupies! Do yourself a favor check out this song and all their others, and make sure to go see them live!

The Anti Groupies- I Can’t: