King Parrot: Dead Set Review

May 27, 2015 Chris Butera 2 Comments

When one finds a band that sells a t-shirt bearing the words “I’m not here to fuck spiders,” it’s safe to say they have no idea what they’re in for.

That band is King Parrot; a destructive grindcore act from the hardcore pubs of southern Australia who is bestowing their sophomore album entitled “Dead Set” on Pantera and Down’s legendary front man Phil Anselmo’s (who also produced the release) Housecore Records.

The album kicks off with “Anthem of the Advanced Sinner.” If you’re familiar with King Parrot’s music the difference in production is night and day compared to their first album “Bite Your Head Off.” The clarity of each individual member is striking and it goes to show what a difference a larger budget and ample amounts of time can make.

“Dead Set” progresses deeper into darkness with “Need No Saviour,” “Hell Comes Your Way” and “Like a Rat,” boasting speed and relentless grind with true precision and technicality. The plunge then goes further with “Tomorrow Turns to Blood” and “Home is Where the Gutter is” when the grind becomes blackened and sludgy. The songs slowly start to accumulate grooves in all the right places, twisting King Parrot into form.

“Sick in the Head” and “Punisher” shake things up a bit by starting with thrash laden riffs before taking some groove oriented turns at Albuquerque. One of the best things about King Parrot is that their music is all over the place, never sticking to the same formula twice. We could be looking at the first “progressive grindcore” band – if ever there could be such a thing.

Although every musician has bolstered their repertoire on Dead Set, no one has improved more than vocalist Matt “Youngy” Young. Youngy’s voice has gotten significantly higher (which he attributes to quitting cigarettes) and more ferocious at that. Whereas Youngy sonically was a bit more like Steve “Zetro” Souza (Exodus) on “Bite Your Head Off,” he’s much more in the vein of Tomas Lindberg (At the Gates, Lock Up) on “Dead Set.”

The final two songs “Reject” and the title track combine everything that King Parrot have done so far on “Dead Set” and then crank it up a few notches for good measure. The title track not only revolves around a blackened breakdown, but it also clocks in at six minutes and 49 seconds; the longest song King Parrot has ever recorded to date.

King Parrot continues to be unpredictable with “Dead Set” and have clearly gone a long way from playing locally to tens of people. With the added experience from the success of “Bite Your Head Off,” the band has musically matured for the better and it shows on every crevice of “Dead Set”.

After all, they’re not here to fuck spiders.

Movies

Trailer Feedback: Cooties

May 25, 2015 Chris Butera Leave a comment

In our youth, there was once an invisible disease all little boys and girls had at some time in their lives called “Cooties.”

Essentially a warped version of tag, cooties could be brought on at a moment’s notice when one child would yell that another “had cooties”. Those highly contagious cooties could then be given to someone else by touching them and screaming loudly that said child now “has cooties”.

The only way to rid someone of their cooties would be to give them a “cootie shot” by making circular patterns on the victims wrist and saying “circle circle, dot dot, now you’ve got the cootie shot” before poking the cooties away.

But what if one of the cutest “diseases” on earth was actually a food-borne virus that turned kids into zombies?

In a nutshell, this is “Cooties;” a comedy-horror film that hits theaters just in time for class in September.

Elijah Wood (“Lord of The Rings” trilogy, “Green Street Hooligans”), Rainn Wilson (“Backstrom,” “The Office”) and a plethora of others star as teachers and faculty of an elementary school overrun with zombie children in what looks to be a smart, funny and adorable showing in the vein of “Zombieland”.

“Cooties” should have an abundance of great lines and cult classic moments. A trailer highlight is the tail end when Wilson cooly says “Naptime, mother- (shut your mouth)” before lighting a jumping jamboree full of infected kids on fire.

How’s that for a cootie shot?

Movies

Trailer Feedback: Poltergeist (2015)

May 24, 2015 Chris Butera Leave a comment

This weekend horror icon Sam Rami (“Evil Dead” trilogy, “Drag Me to Hell”) and director Gil Kenan (“Monster House”) are prepared to deliver a modern retelling of Tobe Hooper’s 1982 terror classic, “Poltergeist”.

Our first glimpse of the film is full of Rami’s signature style of in-your-face jump scares, complete with slightly humorous teases. The infamous clown doll looks sinister as ever and is going to be a pleasure to endure in full effect.

The casting of the Bowan family looks to be decent as their fear and concern feels legitimate and does not appear to come off campy. Youngster Kennedi Clements is undoubtedly going to steal the show as ghost hostage Madison.

Jared Harris (“Pompeii”, “Natural Born Killers”) looks interesting as Carrigan Burke and may end up being a total badass from the sights of the trailer.

We are also treated to a combination of impressive visuals (restless spirits of the other side) and practical effects, which is always a treat as most films will rely heavily on CGI.

If you’re a fan of the Poltergeist movies or horror in general, head over to the theaters and shell out some coin for a trip down memory lane.

They’re waiting.

Gaming

Throwback Thursday: Top 5 Poke’mon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire Mega Evolutions

May 21, 2015 Chris Butera Leave a comment

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With every new Poke’mon release (and re-release) we now have the awesome feature of Mega-Evolutions, with more available with every 3DS adventure. Being that only a select few poke’mon possess that ability, it makes some stand out above the rest. Here are our top 5 mega-evolutions from Poke’mon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.

Mega Swampert – When holding a mega stone, Swampert upgrades its “cool factor” to turn into Brock Lesnar. Mega Swampert looks like it’s begging for a fight and whoever’s on the receiving end of its Hammer Arm is not getting up any time soon. Despite its awesome looks and newfound aggression, we are a little peeved that Mega Swampert does not learn F-5.

Mega Steelix – When mega evolved, Steelix grows armlike appendages and has an aura of metal constructs floating around him ala Magneto. This thing looks like an angry Imperial fleet and possibly could take on the Death Star.

Mega Salamence- While the appearance change is not too drastic, Mega Salamence’s wingspan has become larger and it is now topped off with a shell-based armor around its body. It’s the batplane on steroids and we raucously approve.

Mega Sceptile- Eat your hearts out, turtles. Mega Sceptile completes the reptilian ninja look and fuses it with a Stegosaur-oriented tree tail. Speaking of tree tails, Mega Sceptile’s gives it the lightningrod ability; rendering electric-type attacks completely useless. Well played Mega Sceptile, well played.

Mega Rayquaza – This is no dragon, but a remorseless killing machine. Mega Rayquaza is given a slew of new armor, complete with overlord helmet. The legendary poke’mon is now even more a force to be reckoned with as sparks generate from its hulking body.

Music, Podcast

Bonesaw Podcast – Episode 10: Moon Tooth

May 18, 2015 Chris Butera 1 Comment

Moon Tooth preparing for takeoff. (from left to right) Ray Marte Nick Lee, John Carbone, Vin Romanelli — Moon Tooth preparing for takeoff. (from left to right) Ray Marte, Nick Lee, John Carbone, Vin Romanelli

For our 10th episode we have Long Island based experimental metal masters Moon Tooth. In this episode, we talk movies, SXSW and all things Moon Tooth.

Check out Moon Tooth here: http://www.facebook.com/moontoothband

Donate to Thrash Bash BBQ IV: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/206782…ash-bash-bbq-iv

Pro Wrestling

WWE Payback Predictions

May 17, 2015 Chris Butera Leave a comment

With a name like Payback, you have to imagine someone is going to get their comeuppance and you can believe it with tonight’s installment of WWE’s “what goes around comes around” themed Pay-Per-View.

Here’s who we feel is going to get (and receive) their payback.

Kickoff – Macho Mandow & Curtis Axel vs. The Ascension: Ever since their debut, The Ascension have played the fools as opposed to their NXT dominance. This outing will be no different as they take the fall from Axel and Damien Sandow’s latest personality.

Divas Tag Match – Naomi & Tamina Snuka vs. The Bella Twins: Naomi is gunning for Nikki Bella’s Divas Championship again, this time utilizing Snuka as her in-law powerhouse. The Championship is not on the line, so we feel that Naomi and Snuka will assert their dominance against The Bella’s in this chaotic family outing.

King Barrett vs. Neville: These two are no strangers and will meet again inside the Elimination Chamber on May 31st along with four other WWE Superstars for the now vacant Intercontinental Championship. Barrett has been the aggressor in this feud so far but Neville is one tough son of a gun. While Barrett is on a roll lately, it seems that there are greater things on the horizon for this year’s King of the Ring than the Intercontinental title. Barrett will win the match at Payback, but we think Neville is next in line for Intercontinental gold.

Bray Wyatt vs. Ryback: While wins and losses do not mean much in the world of Sports Entertainment, Wyatt needs to start winning the feuds he starts for the credibility of his character. A loss in Ryback’s column will not hurt The Big Guy at all. For this reason alone Ryback is our pick to be the sacrificial lamb Wyatt needs to rejuvenate his persona as The New Face of Fear.

Dolph Ziggler vs. Sheamus: This is going to be better than their Extreme Rules encounter, but the end result will be the same: Ziggler will win the match but Sheamus will be the one getting his payback after.

Two Out of Three Falls Match WWE Tag Team Championships – Cesaro & Tyson Kidd vs. The New Day (c): We saw an interesting double turn last month as Cesaro & Kidd are now the faces and The New Day have officially transitioned to heels by tapping into their inner Freebirds. Cesaro & Kidd are a treat to watch and have some of the best chemistry we’ve seen in a long time, but they’re better on the chase. The New Day are starting to come into their own and get some real heat. We feel it would be in the WWE’s best interests if The New Day retain their titles to grow into some much needed villains and we think a long title run for them will start at Payback.

“I Quit” Match for the WWE United States Championship – Rusev vs. John Cena (c): Cena is undefeated not only at Payback but in “I Quit” matches. For Pete’s sake, the words “Never Give Up” are on every piece of merchandise bearing his name. Cena’s “open challenges” have also elevated the United States Championship greatly over the past two months, so why stop now? While the odds are clearly in Cena’s favor (aren’t they always?) we think that this is why WWE is going to throw the ultimate curve ball and have Rusev take the gold back to the USSR.

Fatal Four Way Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship – Roman Reigns vs. Randy Orton vs. Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins (c): While The Authoroty’s “golden boy” Rollins has the odds stacked against him (he does not have to be pinned or submitted to lose his title), he is going to keep his WWE World Heavyweight Championship due to Kane getting involved for the sake of his job (if Rollins does not retain Kane will be fired). Seeing as Ambrose is going to participate for the Intercontinental Championship inside the Elimination Chamber at the end of the month, it’s pretty likely that WWE’s Lunatic Fringe will be the contender Rollins pins.

Random

Places to Eat: Bonnie’s Grill

May 15, 2015 Chris Butera Leave a comment

Bonnie's Grill in all its glory. — Bonnie’s Grill in all its glory.

If you’re looking for good food, cheap booze and blues, look no further than Bonnie’s Grill.

Located on 5th avenue and 1st street in the Park Slope section of Brooklyn, New York; the humble eatery is a narrow hole-in-the-wall type of place surrounded with pictures of both blues and southern rock legends.

Bonnie’s Grill features some great wings fried to a crispy perfection, covered with four different sauces of choice – each boasting a different level of heat. If you want a nice, tangy punch then go for BBQ or the medium sauce. If you’re looking for punishment, then go for broke with hot or hotter.

While one of the more traditional selections at Bonnie’s are their ribs, Applewood pork dogs and burgers (a juicy slab of Angus sirloin chock full of flavor), they make one hell of a pulled pork sandwich – served with your choice of fries, salad, soup, chili, or some spicy coleslaw for that extra kick. The different spices, juices and textures complement each other in the supreme way that only Southern cooking can. Bonnie’s also features a soul fueled brunch menu on the weekends complete with chicken and waffles.

One of the more unique features of Bonnie’s Grill is the old-timey homage set by their display. Pictures of Roy Orbison, Robert Johnson and Elvis Presley adorn the walls of the neighborhood haunt.
Bonnie’s Grill also has an impressive beer menu ranging from craft, local and your standard domestic suds to bring it all home.

When it all comes down to the nitty-gritty, Bonnie’s Grill has you covered. With Southern style cooking, great beer and a little piece of Rock ‘n’ Roll, you simply can’t go wrong.

Binnie's pulled pork sandwich with an ample serving of their spicy coleslaw. — Bonnie’s pulled pork sandwich with an ample serving of their spicy coleslaw.

Gaming

Five Nights at Freddy’s 4 – Nightmare

May 13, 2015 Chris Butera 1 Comment

Game designer Scott Cawthon gave the big reveal last week when he announced “Five Nights at Freddy’s 4: The Final Chapter” with one terrifying teaser shortly followed by another.

Cawthon’s first image is of a twisted, deranged Freddy Fazbear being dubbed “Nightmare Freddy” by fans of the franchise due to the word “nightmare” seen in the reddish background when the image is brightened. Nightmare Freddy features bits of exposed endoskeleton (similar to Spring Trap in Five Nights at Freddy’s 3) followed by sharp teeth and large claws. His eyes are fixated on the “camera” in a chilling glare.

The creepiest asset Nightmare Freddy has is his three mini Freddy’s crawling out of his torso.

It gets more terrifying with Nightmare Bonnie (which can currently be seen at Cawthon’s website). The hulking animatronic has sharklike rows of razor sharp teeth that make up a chilling smile and claws to boot. Nightmare Bonnie’s endoskeleton is also exposed in some places, but not nearly as much as Nightmare Freddy. Nightmare Bonnie’s eyes have an eerie purple glow to them rather than the solid, more realistic look of Nightmare Freddy’s. The word “nightmare” in Nightmare Bonnie’s teaser is much more prevalent in the blue background. In this teaser however; Cawthon has left us a message.

“Was it me?”

With all the lore and theories pertaining to the franchise it’s very likely that this is referencing the purple man seen throughout the series (red and blue do make purple, after all).

But there is also the possibility that this is referencing the biggest mystery in the series: what caused the bite of ’87? If you’re new to Five Nights, the “Bite of ’87” is an incident where an animatronic bit someone during the day, removing part of their frontal lobe.

Cawthon has placed multiple eights and sevens in the source codes of the teasers. This is no coincidence. Also judging from the looks of these new monstrosities, it would take little to no effort for either creature to take out a chunk of your brain.

While the game is set for release this Halloween, Cawthon has already begun to flood the internet with theories and speculation due to his innate way of messing with our heads and has only begun to scratch the surface.

Will we be seeing more nightmare versions of the other animatronics? What is Cawthon referencing? What does it all mean?

Knowing Cawthon, we’ll all find out in due time.