article JJ's Bizarre Blog #72 - Voices of the Soul II: They Speak to Me, They Understand in Community Blog

article JJ's Bizarre Blog #72 - Voices of the Soul II: They Speak to Me, They Understand in Community Blog https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-72-Voices-of-the-Soul-II-They-Speak-to-Me-They/ba-p/7338512 <P><SPAN>Greetings, all! New month, new possibilities and the Bizarre One is back with more wisdom for you! It's the week of Valentine's Day, so a very <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-23-Incinerated-by-the-Flames-of-Love-and/ba-p/5926779" target="_blank" rel="noopener">romantic</A> period for many, so in light of that, how about something soothing and fun? I recently did a blog on my <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-68-Voices-of-the-Soul/ba-p/7259887" target="_blank" rel="noopener">favourite vocalists</A> but over the course of that, I realized that a single entry will be woefully inadequate to capture the full spectrum of things. So, the more the merrier, right? So without further ado, let's dive back in, here's a collection of some of my favourite vocalists, part 2!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>I ended the last entry with some honourable mentions, so let's start off by graduating those into full sections! We start with the one and only Jonathan Davis aka JDevil from the iconic <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-33-The-N%C3%BC-Hits-of-My-Generation-Family-Values/ba-p/6199547" target="_blank" rel="noopener">nu metal</A> pioneers KoRn! From the very beginning JD's vocals stand out. He forgoes most typical techniques and uses a mix of spoken word and eccentric melodies to convey and eerie and unique delivery that is exceptionally raw and emotionally driven. At the same time, he still utilizes some awesome, catchy, melodic lines and harsh screams and growls as well. Combine that with the brutal, unfiltered and deeply personal lyrics he's delivering and you have an absolutely unforgettable experience that sounds like nothing before or since. His voice alone is instantly recognizable and, as I'm sure you're aware, he's also known for his "scat singing", where he just uses a lot of unintelligible gibberish to create something animalistic. All of this makes him a unique artist that touches the heart like nobody else can. And when he screams "ARE YOU READYYYYYY", you know it's about to go down hard!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2yXGMzha9lltJRjzOCNiCn:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2yXGMzha9lltJRjzOCNiCn:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:07xFWwKPOApMS56ildsV0G:small" target="_self">spotify:track:07xFWwKPOApMS56ildsV0G:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:7n3bkXLjXeCjpuHZLAZsBt:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7n3bkXLjXeCjpuHZLAZsBt:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2F6FfZ4w8z3eJpSxPotVO5:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2F6FfZ4w8z3eJpSxPotVO5:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2f1BjAVy4k8B3pB4qBntHj:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2f1BjAVy4k8B3pB4qBntHj:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:27qsQGjOEBiVoZJB1ViI4Y:small" target="_self">spotify:track:27qsQGjOEBiVoZJB1ViI4Y:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1F0S2kbZhHAw19f9ihA3FH:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1F0S2kbZhHAw19f9ihA3FH:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4PaPZk1Ozg0TfDTBnbXX38:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4PaPZk1Ozg0TfDTBnbXX38:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:3ns1Hn52RB28zGVHiFvz7W:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3ns1Hn52RB28zGVHiFvz7W:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Another nu metal legend, Corey Taylor! A more conventional vocalist, he has a distinct and recognizable voice that is low and beautiful. He is an instant recipe for success, given his versatility, being able to deliver instantly memorable melodic verses and choruses while also screaming like a true beast and awakening something dark, deep within us all. Most famously with SlipKnot, his presence is powerful, visceral and enthralling, bringing extreme music to the masses like nobody else. Meanwhile, with his other (and original) band Stone Sour, he brings a much more mellow and dramatic performance that can be heart-pumping or gutwrenching, whatever the song requires. Across his vast body of work, Corey brings a wide range of sounds, with the connecting factor always being how instantly memorable all the songs are, how awesome his lyricism is and how he just oozes charisma with every performance. I wonder what he thinks about all this?</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2yTnWN1R5j6grXC8YLf5mc:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2yTnWN1R5j6grXC8YLf5mc:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0at89DgpVeImkVrQ0htbVm:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0at89DgpVeImkVrQ0htbVm:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:01eEGwQ4eZlz6x1V8i2WGP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:01eEGwQ4eZlz6x1V8i2WGP:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0Y2i84QWPFiFHQfEQDgHya:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0Y2i84QWPFiFHQfEQDgHya:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0O7lENhqOySbsL743G7PqD:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0O7lENhqOySbsL743G7PqD:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6vhuve6vceQE6yNCcK2rct:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6vhuve6vceQE6yNCcK2rct:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0AfIsqZ4gTUg9CwwW2jLeK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0AfIsqZ4gTUg9CwwW2jLeK:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5NeIONQWJ25uPylJBJiO4c:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5NeIONQWJ25uPylJBJiO4c:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1q9ru9Wx2Q9Ez8irkGcyFa:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1q9ru9Wx2Q9Ez8irkGcyFa:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2hX2v0U5lKSlxVxnesLEak:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2hX2v0U5lKSlxVxnesLEak:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7oL13WHjhUFhVq9POP7qfC:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7oL13WHjhUFhVq9POP7qfC:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5jsDxDkJ1PqyYUWhDMr86B:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5jsDxDkJ1PqyYUWhDMr86B:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Next up, we have the Armenian mad genius Serj Tankian of the iconic System of a Down! This is a band that has defined my taste in music and his vocals are a huge part of that. His delivery is chaotic, eclectic and unpredictable. He freely switches between clean melodic lines, operatic vibrato, ear-piercing screams, growls and rhythmic gibberish almost mid sentence, perfectly matching the pure insanity of the music. He can reign it in and deliver some soulful performances or he can completely unleash his weirdness and make the wackiest nonsense ever fun and catchy. On later albums, he would also share vocal duties with SOAD guitarist Daron Malakian with the two of them creating some absolutely unbelievable duets! There is truly nobody like Serj and no other band like SOAD!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1Ym3JWJG8HFJU2NbXavZ6a:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1Ym3JWJG8HFJU2NbXavZ6a:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1rWBeTMLU7Ys15lw6XqJvq:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1rWBeTMLU7Ys15lw6XqJvq:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:47EqCQZG5v4o0WFMufGf5S:small" target="_self">spotify:track:47EqCQZG5v4o0WFMufGf5S:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3cuZytP8ujEBEiRtQfhsIQ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3cuZytP8ujEBEiRtQfhsIQ:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5hjKYe3NOmWx2NVzVAeIGF:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5hjKYe3NOmWx2NVzVAeIGF:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5uMTA9SIe0sE4dnHHSHaYz:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5uMTA9SIe0sE4dnHHSHaYz:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6Y2kW1mdHE0znPCjtOdt5m:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6Y2kW1mdHE0znPCjtOdt5m:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6V9pamKmJuQL7mkFtFufKQ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6V9pamKmJuQL7mkFtFufKQ:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5AQIixOhgy2RZFwhVnPOH6:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5AQIixOhgy2RZFwhVnPOH6:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Lastly of the nu metal crowd, we have Disturbed's iconic frontman David Draiman! Another man with an unmistakable voice, he is known for his powerful sound and frequent use of rhythmic scat singing (I only now realize what a running theme this is in nu metal). Only he could've ever made OH WAH AH AH AH one of his most iconic "lyrics" that all fans scream along to. DD is know for his percussive style with a hint of rap, matching the punchy, hard hitting riffs of Distrubed. On their later work, he goes more melodic too and on the now iconic Sound of Silence cover, he truly showcased the vast array of talents he possesses as a singer! Although, I already knew that given how long I've been a fan of this band. Among the Ten Thousand Fists, mine always stands tall!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:40rvBMQizxkIqnjPdEWY1v:small" target="_self">spotify:track:40rvBMQizxkIqnjPdEWY1v:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5IvKtrcNWBkvyW2yXZ2Y40:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5IvKtrcNWBkvyW2yXZ2Y40:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4jfSYBUEzJnY1V792z0mth:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4jfSYBUEzJnY1V792z0mth:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0jY829pCMnstlNtaE72vSB:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0jY829pCMnstlNtaE72vSB:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:42ZVk59gT4tMlrZmd8Ijxf:small" target="_self">spotify:track:42ZVk59gT4tMlrZmd8Ijxf:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1Cj2vqUwlJVG27gJrun92y:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1Cj2vqUwlJVG27gJrun92y:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3H1SsrSSXeMFNj206eYim8:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3H1SsrSSXeMFNj206eYim8:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:20qGHLPe46UeFPRxsXm3r4:small" target="_self">spotify:track:20qGHLPe46UeFPRxsXm3r4:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4zvqMZ6g4wKZaPpOQvoBpP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4zvqMZ6g4wKZaPpOQvoBpP:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Now onto a man that I not only love as an artist, but is basically a personal idol of mine - Brazilian metal god Max Cavalera! He pioneered extreme music and defined the sound an entire generation with Sepultura! You'd be hard pressed to find a modern band not influenced by them in some way. His voice is instantly recognizable and his thrashy yells are pure adrenaline fuel, perfect for the rebellious music it leads the charge for. Over the years, he has branched out into nu metal as well and with his long standing band Soulfly, he has experimented with all sorts of styles, all rooted around his favourite sound - potent, aggressive thrash metal with elements of tribal music! It's raw and pure, speaking to something primitive and intrinsic to us all. And what makes him so special to me is how openly he speaks his ideals and how firmly he stands behind them. He breaks down establishments with music as his weapon! He is a counter-cultural icon that has stood for freedom and non-conformity for decades and has inspired legions of rebels worldwide! And his music is just plain awesome, from the iconics of Soulfly and Sepultura to his smaller side projects like Killer Be Killed, Cavalera Conspiracy, Nailbomb and more, the party is guaranteed! He is a legend who truly put Brazilian metal on the world map and the entire metal genre wouldn't be the same without him.</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4N0tiR3wzxN9k1aKvDbhoy:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4N0tiR3wzxN9k1aKvDbhoy:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0OQsXPoZ9Cbl4WDDIwm8Wl:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0OQsXPoZ9Cbl4WDDIwm8Wl:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4w3hYmYc7GHMwF0UR9TWur:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4w3hYmYc7GHMwF0UR9TWur:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6AnEybFSF86G6uVdJ56Mnf:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6AnEybFSF86G6uVdJ56Mnf:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4wS3UVzf0wQPUoYw5nOzBU:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4wS3UVzf0wQPUoYw5nOzBU:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1WPVEvWkLAGlOrPOKbZHZ6:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1WPVEvWkLAGlOrPOKbZHZ6:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4v5A3JsvjRcjJvsbOik7VP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4v5A3JsvjRcjJvsbOik7VP:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3orEDNYiGeafDlFNSAZ2Lw:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3orEDNYiGeafDlFNSAZ2Lw:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6ursmCnbc9oDRGa2yHKkoZ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6ursmCnbc9oDRGa2yHKkoZ:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2mpgQFpYpCrwLViQHi7Nb2:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2mpgQFpYpCrwLViQHi7Nb2:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0X7ReIpgkzkxh4cbzdlZCx:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0X7ReIpgkzkxh4cbzdlZCx:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0pnnLTqCDfE8Qq99d5Y2PP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0pnnLTqCDfE8Qq99d5Y2PP:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>After all that heavy goodness, let's slow things down and go a little oldschool, shall we? An iconic voice that has been with me almost as long as I can remember is the one and only Joe Lynn Turner! This American legend has made a name for himself with many bands all over the world, but most famously with the genius Richie Blackmore's Rainbow! Ronnie James Dio leaves massive shoes to fill, but JLT is among the few that somewhat manages to fill them. With Rainbow, he would work on a trifecta of back to back masterpiece albums, each one containing some of the most iconic and unforgettable tracks in the entire history of rock music! Beyond that, he had a brief stint with Deep Purple where he helped conjure a very solid, very Rainbow-esque record and his work with another guitar genius, Yngwie Malmsteen, has helped reign in the Swede's eclectic style to create some of the most memorable and catchy tunes in his entire discography. Across his solo work, Sunstorm, Fandango, countless collaborations and even some awesome work with Bulgarian rock icons like Ahat, Eridan and the amazing rock opera that is Nikolo Kotzev's Nostradamus, JLT has always delivered absolutely incredible work! And how could he not, he just has one of those magical voices that you can never get tired of listening to. Incredibly clean and melodic, with solid vibrato and an amazing tone, yet with enough grit and masculine power to give it that distinctive rock sound! From mellow love ballads to fantastical epics, he can do it all and do it brilliantly. He has been a stalwart of rock and metal for over four decades and whatever he touches turns to gold!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2L6LeWFHYhcxisYJ9X0Adn:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2L6LeWFHYhcxisYJ9X0Adn:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7HXYoe65kmrPrJR1r0DGtW:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7HXYoe65kmrPrJR1r0DGtW:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2dHjSNCw10clC9oOld8tPn:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2dHjSNCw10clC9oOld8tPn:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2hDopFcMjFcRi5IRpTSSyr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2hDopFcMjFcRi5IRpTSSyr:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4oPAWZuRrLdENiojdecY9Z:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4oPAWZuRrLdENiojdecY9Z:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7gDIGiGfnK5m2CWsPPUjyt:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7gDIGiGfnK5m2CWsPPUjyt:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1XQg8k5LfaOZaRsYefnghq:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1XQg8k5LfaOZaRsYefnghq:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3SgshUlk02dwRHeLm0ztOi:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3SgshUlk02dwRHeLm0ztOi:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2ObPMev0JQ3x32MMYQ4dp8:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2ObPMev0JQ3x32MMYQ4dp8:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Let's keep it oldschool with someone that has even more experience in the field, German metal god Udo Dirkschneider! Among all the legendary frontmen in rock and metal, Udo's voice is easily one of the most recognizable. It's gruff, raspy and a bit nasally, sounding like an angry dog while also remaining melodic, powerful and emotionally potent. He always employs some unusual techniques such as extending consonants instead of vowels and some crazy falsetto screams. Truly, this is a voice that can only ever work in metal, but does it ever work! With his original band Accept, Udo has released several of the greatest metal albums of all time and later with his solo band U.D.O., he has a vast catalog of amazing records that have remained consistently incredible over all the decades! His rebellious lyrics speak to the soul and fill you with energy and his stage presence is magnanimous and effortlessly cool. Even today, he embodies the idea of the rockstar better than anybody and shows a never ending passion for keeping the classic sound alive. </SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:5O0FdpixX4OhV75VVUEt2p:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5O0FdpixX4OhV75VVUEt2p:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1RhWe1Hj8kJsvO5qDQIisb:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1RhWe1Hj8kJsvO5qDQIisb:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4TWD51MgSPYU10r6dse3XO:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4TWD51MgSPYU10r6dse3XO:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0VAumtUZ7C6dL8oLDGsrRX:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0VAumtUZ7C6dL8oLDGsrRX:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0rDhrV26w2t2pwB68sE8J7:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0rDhrV26w2t2pwB68sE8J7:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0mgd3Fj0IDrsPFaR0c121z:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0mgd3Fj0IDrsPFaR0c121z:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:7eep4uQ9mz4Z6WKRiB4aVq:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7eep4uQ9mz4Z6WKRiB4aVq:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2c3KDBL6DYW9wVmojZfQhL:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2c3KDBL6DYW9wVmojZfQhL:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4eGA6W99rlBHJUqTX4vsap:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4eGA6W99rlBHJUqTX4vsap:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4D3LnC7ztNX7GjVdjjmXMg:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4D3LnC7ztNX7GjVdjjmXMg:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4MfBk2SvHdVjst7B1Kmcxg:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4MfBk2SvHdVjst7B1Kmcxg:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0gGsDCxkZbprFjPnLAJbFz:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0gGsDCxkZbprFjPnLAJbFz:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P data-unlink="true"><SPAN>And keeping the rock sound but with something more modern, I must shoutout the beast (literally and figuratively) that is Mr. Lordi of the eponymous Lordi! These Finnish titans forged their legend when they represented their nation at the Eurovision contest, but they are far from a one trick monster! Mr. Lordi is the mastermind behind it all, using his experience in the film industry to help design the iconic costumes that the band always wear, as well as all their stage decor, props and effects, all giving them an absolutely one-of-a-kind live presence. But this is a blog about vocals and the lord himself is amazing at that - his voice is powerful, catchy and has a very distinct hard rock rasp that makes it so fun to listen to, almost like a younger, distinctly Northern European Lemmy Kilmister. He sounds viscous, yet approachable and he gives the songs that exact pumping energy that they need. Lordi embody the classic hard rock spirit while giving it a fresher sound and across the European realm, few rock bands compare. And when it comes to frontmonsters, Mr. Lordi stands head, shoulders, horns and wings above all!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7sZTvm0Sx8umbyQViTE2Qc:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7sZTvm0Sx8umbyQViTE2Qc:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1KFFJxVj3mUUZVJawehnLr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1KFFJxVj3mUUZVJawehnLr:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4c290AVeYkMz6hnT7T31tU:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4c290AVeYkMz6hnT7T31tU:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1Ay3yX2An8c1g6iaIzGvPL:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1Ay3yX2An8c1g6iaIzGvPL:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3JrAqh4lKHQ3blXdGRx5O5:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3JrAqh4lKHQ3blXdGRx5O5:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6kUeFT8sdSKhtTDzDdqL7S:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6kUeFT8sdSKhtTDzDdqL7S:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3sm8hIO8kQYvOtqdpt67me:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3sm8hIO8kQYvOtqdpt67me:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4wPwqit2ytuMCEhqjrRt1U:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4wPwqit2ytuMCEhqjrRt1U:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4BgWcs2GtfvHwDkM1F19ru:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4BgWcs2GtfvHwDkM1F19ru:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Now for something close to home for me, <A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-48-The-Lion-of-the-Balkans-the-Crossroads-of/ba-p/6796511" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bulgarian music</A> has a vast array of amazing artists and singers to offer but one I am always enchanted with is Atanas Penev or Nasko for short from the one and only B.T.R. Even though they're a somewhat newer band compared to the true dinosaurs, they have firmly cemented themselves as rock royalty and have in their discography some of the most iconic songs our nation has to offer, lyrics that almost anybody knows by heart. Nasko's voice is a core part of that unforgettableness - a deep and rich sound layered with dense emotion, being able to really take you on a journey through the turmoils of each song. He can conjure a very moody and melancholic atmosphere on some songs, make even the sappiest ballads instantly memorable and imbue tracks with an infectious feeling of hope and light. There truly is no other like him!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3oQQKW2l2lnbcgBfWnc2Rp:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3oQQKW2l2lnbcgBfWnc2Rp:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3klria8WEUf8e1mwCRJW9Z:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3klria8WEUf8e1mwCRJW9Z:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4R7eYoudfIH041ccGwZnyS:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4R7eYoudfIH041ccGwZnyS:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0y5v6sImIdjUmrdMjZJt2x:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0y5v6sImIdjUmrdMjZJt2x:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6840mtpsCALgby8ddG0Ztt:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6840mtpsCALgby8ddG0Ztt:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7hnu9RACV4qNFMaXTiQBAC:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7hnu9RACV4qNFMaXTiQBAC:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0iXBouzNFmpUIVf1sQW8Bb:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0iXBouzNFmpUIVf1sQW8Bb:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1RooAMuFfhpOW4bO6rI3Kk:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1RooAMuFfhpOW4bO6rI3Kk:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3j8LTxbdPSTTQ9MjnRu8ie:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3j8LTxbdPSTTQ9MjnRu8ie:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>And on a different note, I'd like to shoutout the metal icon Zvezdomir Keremidchiev aka Zvezdi from the one and only Ahat! They are a power metal-inclined band that took aspects of our history and folklore to create <EM>Походът/The March</EM>, which is in my opinion the greatest Bulgarian metal album of all time. It also features the song "The Black Sheep", the anthem of every metalhead and nonconformist across the land and over more than three decades. In the center of that is Zvezdi's voice, a classic power metal tenor full of raw strength and unmitigated passion, a call to arms and an anthemic sound to awaken us all. His presence and voice are infectious and he can easily go toe-to-toe with any of the European greats!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5IPrpztpWEuCf6svCw51WX:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5IPrpztpWEuCf6svCw51WX:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2f77U7JUoFG2kR49508vv4:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2f77U7JUoFG2kR49508vv4:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4BIsDPjjsKXJeLk1jEeqsF:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4BIsDPjjsKXJeLk1jEeqsF:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7blZYfQ39azYjpN0Yc96Ap:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7blZYfQ39azYjpN0Yc96Ap:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6hFWrbf3Pe5Ykwuhjmvby7:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6hFWrbf3Pe5Ykwuhjmvby7:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2f8RHtxEeq8OAMuLdVnJB8:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2f8RHtxEeq8OAMuLdVnJB8:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>How about something different, something more pop-oriented? A voice that has enchanted me for several decades now is one I'm sure you've heard before. It's the incredible baritone of Dave Gahan, frontman of the one and only Depeche Mode! His voice is incredibly rich and smooth, perfect example of a "velvety sound". The light, ethereal delivery that is still so full and potent, the recognizable tone, the subtle British accent, it all creates the perfect blend for one of the greatest new wave/synthpop acts of all time. It somehow sounds futuristic and modern, yet classically elegant, creating a vibe that's romantic and warm, yet melancholic and dreamy at the same time. Musically, DM are absolutely brilliant, but Dave's vocals take them to the next level!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1JekRMGQ8iN4G1AAdh0SBa:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1JekRMGQ8iN4G1AAdh0SBa:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7HDWE2Ib7cjkhzULV4K8y3:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7HDWE2Ib7cjkhzULV4K8y3:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3E5NxItWJmrd4I6ddpePZr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3E5NxItWJmrd4I6ddpePZr:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1mb5bblw96UieIjCPlWyEw:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1mb5bblw96UieIjCPlWyEw:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7EUTE9NWNqfx6OMan0y60x:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7EUTE9NWNqfx6OMan0y60x:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0ZYmiMyHnZgdSHD1PlAWlT:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0ZYmiMyHnZgdSHD1PlAWlT:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7oQX82XgUBDhSbpMSksG12:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7oQX82XgUBDhSbpMSksG12:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0ooy3NjwsJreceWYCxlfQt:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0ooy3NjwsJreceWYCxlfQt:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4FiOSWit6wdaYY6dDGHexv:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4FiOSWit6wdaYY6dDGHexv:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>And speaking of voices I'm sure you've heard, next up is...Madonna! Yes, really. Among the many pop queens throughout the years, I find she's the one I always keep coming back to. From the mid-to-late 80s to around the mid 2000s I feel is an era where she is completely untouchable, creating some of the finest pop music of all time that is simultaneously simple, instantly catchy and unforgettable, yet rich, nuanced and musically sophisticated, enabling her to capture the attention of the masses yet impressing the attentive listener at the same time. Her voice is very deep and rich, a low yet distinctly feminine sound that can be playful, romantic, upbeat or soothing, whatever the specific song requires. This along with the differing genre influences she's worked with over her career has allowed her to create an unmatched collection of unique and diverse records, while always sounding distinctly like herself. Because nobody else can.</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1AQQ9DdpEemMVTHNz4eG9a:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1AQQ9DdpEemMVTHNz4eG9a:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:3850dYVgOFIXJh5U4BFEWH:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3850dYVgOFIXJh5U4BFEWH:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:55whbebR4olz2HHcRQa2kx:small" target="_self">spotify:track:55whbebR4olz2HHcRQa2kx:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1z3ugFmUKoCzGsI6jdY4Ci:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1z3ugFmUKoCzGsI6jdY4Ci:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2fzykVsO2Di5jnofUNX3YE:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2fzykVsO2Di5jnofUNX3YE:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:59qPP8coY8EWIQ9nQDThui:small" target="_self">spotify:track:59qPP8coY8EWIQ9nQDThui:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1oHClQEgDmmbcEx12Kc5nZ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1oHClQEgDmmbcEx12Kc5nZ:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:3afv9TL8ixr4T9VbiKnrwe:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3afv9TL8ixr4T9VbiKnrwe:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:3b3PnE1ROIZzILjmCGjVib:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3b3PnE1ROIZzILjmCGjVib:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Anyway, enough of that sappy, pop stuff, next up we have another very popular voice that you've probably heard, although it may or may not have been by your own volition. It's George "Corpsegrinder" Fisher of the biggest death metal band of all time, Cannibal Corpse! Choosing a favourite death metal vocalist is a tough call as there's a vast array out there and many of them do admittedly sound quite similar. Fisher however has been around almost since the start and till today, his growl is one you instantly recognize! He sounds powerful, absolutely ferocious and brings the kind of unfiltered intensity that few can match. Cannibal Corpse have released a vast number of albums where the quality has become staggeringly consistent. For any artist, it's quite the challenge to have so many records under your belt, yet have not a single dud among them. You know exactly what they will bring and they bring it every time and Fisher is the perfect voice for it all. He brings a lot of power and has a surprisingly clear diction, where every nasty lyric is perfect audible. Combined with some good producers, his voice often sounds like it's coming from inside your brain and it's epic! The only criticism I can offer him is that he has to take accountability for the necks that have been irreparably damaged trying to windmill like he does.</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:67gauLFb25vQYR7qMhNnTT:small" target="_self">spotify:track:67gauLFb25vQYR7qMhNnTT:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1sacFzHdhDc64kzBwD3z5m:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1sacFzHdhDc64kzBwD3z5m:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6yAYjzzFxrnRXpR0OrAUDP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6yAYjzzFxrnRXpR0OrAUDP:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1zXTJp4mMwu2y69LajfzFK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1zXTJp4mMwu2y69LajfzFK:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1sMjMI1vVaA70dTxh4tucZ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1sMjMI1vVaA70dTxh4tucZ:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4YWg4PxJzMn84j7Fo32W4M:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4YWg4PxJzMn84j7Fo32W4M:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:1Ds58cpyJzL0YTKk02vh1C:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1Ds58cpyJzL0YTKk02vh1C:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:4rRvOO1KBtBYLmOU1PTjgr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4rRvOO1KBtBYLmOU1PTjgr:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7tLevkJnFLOMtOOUmhznQa:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7tLevkJnFLOMtOOUmhznQa:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>While we're on the extreme end of things, I must mention the beast that is Travis Ryan of the relentless Cattle Decapitation. While I regard them as a new-ish band, these guys have been at it since the late 90s, so they absolutely deserve the title of pioneers in the realm of extreme metal. They have been pushing the envelope in terms of sound and lyrics before modern deathcore even learned how to walk. Among that, Travis has been one of the most incredible performers across all of death metal, employing some of the deepest and nastiest guttural growls ever heard with ear-piercing shrieks, screams, snarls and assorted other sounds that don't even sound human. And when you think he's nothing but brutality, he'll bring out some clean lines and more melodic delivery to really blow your mind. The first time I listened to this band, I thought for sure they had like three vocalists at minimum, because there was no way all of that came from the throat of one man. Lo and behold, it somehow does! And today, modern stars of the extreme sphere like Lorna Shore's Will Ramos have Cattle Decap to thank, because Travis ran so everyone else can sprint across the road he paved!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0DDcFq1uMytkc3vSy7B3KC:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0DDcFq1uMytkc3vSy7B3KC:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0sIOkUdE5M5lfCm7HJJ2Pm:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0sIOkUdE5M5lfCm7HJJ2Pm:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1MiaHffU7YpUtzs0InL2no:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1MiaHffU7YpUtzs0InL2no:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:7g0f1F13axfvkpNmtDT2K8:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7g0f1F13axfvkpNmtDT2K8:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:6HvAxWqvKr11wuexg1pwXY:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6HvAxWqvKr11wuexg1pwXY:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0YLllOBz80KPlkeeXXRiDf:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0YLllOBz80KPlkeeXXRiDf:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:7Apb2x5qHdEEO7SG8f5uH9:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7Apb2x5qHdEEO7SG8f5uH9:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1yCaiVPhBDnLYY9h5rCL7P:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1yCaiVPhBDnLYY9h5rCL7P:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1HckOFYSs5VkrgiQlpEq8a:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1HckOFYSs5VkrgiQlpEq8a:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>Alright, alright, let's mellow out a bit, but still keep it heavy. I told you in the previous entry I love vocalists that show versatility and can blend harsh and melodic. One prime example of this is the amazing Benjamin Nominet of the Swiss cybermasters Sybreed! He has some tremendous screams and growls matching any of the metalcore greats, bringing a lot of power and ferocity to their sound, but he juxtaposes that with some amazing cleans that are deep, sorrowful and mesmerizing, perhaps bearing a hint of Jonathan Davis in there. An oldschool yet modern sound that blends heavy hitting with heart warming effortlessly and Ben's incredibly infectious voice is the key element of that techno-magic!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2t5uJXeo4r5rEbNP2gMcIm:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2t5uJXeo4r5rEbNP2gMcIm:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0loE3GNFdEEXrNWRFD2kyG:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0loE3GNFdEEXrNWRFD2kyG:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:166xdnetVsGyFEcmLczQM5:small" target="_self">spotify:track:166xdnetVsGyFEcmLczQM5:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2UUUZq75jQ48SGU9e622tk:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2UUUZq75jQ48SGU9e622tk:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:5sebZigjQwq7ctNpjdWCj0:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5sebZigjQwq7ctNpjdWCj0:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2aOuIMA6bG2OTZmjtUEaCV:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2aOuIMA6bG2OTZmjtUEaCV:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0GobdPVeV8dtMGDHKw1NXK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0GobdPVeV8dtMGDHKw1NXK:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0hA94ImYlwkSYl5jEVXPYg:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0hA94ImYlwkSYl5jEVXPYg:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2OFuOxvrYgbIz5bx9egB24:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2OFuOxvrYgbIz5bx9egB24:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4kBT2pT0IBxDVWomLJECO8:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4kBT2pT0IBxDVWomLJECO8:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:60aKccH6ElbULHkdsa8HrZ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:60aKccH6ElbULHkdsa8HrZ:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0Ofdxej4lU6cBFVe51TCfB:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0Ofdxej4lU6cBFVe51TCfB:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>And speaking of metalcore, one of the pioneering and biggest bands of the genre has two of the greatest front men to their name. I'm of course referring to Killswitch Engage and their two leaders Jesse Leach and Howard Jones. These two are so good that to this day fans debate which one is better. I'm personally firmly on team Leach, as his harsh vocals are some of the most raw and pure in the entire game, making the feelings condensed within each song truly palpable. His cleans on the other hand are just as powerful, providing some astonishing melodies that really make you let it all out and hold nothing back. His lyrics already speak to the very soul (to mine at least) and the delivery makes it ever better.</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:5MbSjxKJESH5k5c20Jsity:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5MbSjxKJESH5k5c20Jsity:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:3uXR8I4kT1WtvtHTEj4ZHG:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3uXR8I4kT1WtvtHTEj4ZHG:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1TbARtTYtshDYmXHMOUJuP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1TbARtTYtshDYmXHMOUJuP:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:6g1TT1XmmMHnBaPGTaEx4Q:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6g1TT1XmmMHnBaPGTaEx4Q:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:6B2MKD77fTj8pbfmJAAmt5:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6B2MKD77fTj8pbfmJAAmt5:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0TB3g8StOcm9UacldRD2Rj:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0TB3g8StOcm9UacldRD2Rj:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1HlOGL1p6wlpOZatJ2NwFk:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1HlOGL1p6wlpOZatJ2NwFk:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2s7BoYXz06CoxFyurVTALk:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2s7BoYXz06CoxFyurVTALk:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:5kP32cKaf8ln4PSoY6sD13:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5kP32cKaf8ln4PSoY6sD13:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>This isn't to say that Jones isn't incredible too! He probably has the most recognizable voice in all of metalcore, with his epic, soaring delivery that hits straight to the heart makes you really feel everything being said. He has a very unique sound, almost R&B/soul-esque in my opinion. I believe that if Jones was born a few decades earlier, he easily would've been up there with greats of the time like Lionel Richie or Barry White. So in the end, the debate between Leach and Jones is fun, but it doesn't really matter, because the band delivered phenomenal albums with both, they are both incredible, they're friends with each other and the ultimate winner is all of us that got the honour of hearing them both give it their all!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6WrusttQhWlojn3WKlPTaY:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6WrusttQhWlojn3WKlPTaY:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:07ceEXOyS7ghQkyCOycXwP:small" target="_self">spotify:track:07ceEXOyS7ghQkyCOycXwP:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:0mGfvN9vhKMz8bmjXiWJDL:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0mGfvN9vhKMz8bmjXiWJDL:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:3ZlleUP5EE2rixueLVCi2M:small" target="_self">spotify:track:3ZlleUP5EE2rixueLVCi2M:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:6zKF4293k44ItKWJJgrhXv:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6zKF4293k44ItKWJJgrhXv:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:7I4ZjQVrKwHUA9yjPuOItg:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7I4ZjQVrKwHUA9yjPuOItg:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:2gSFkajNcVKqe0CtmSawnm:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2gSFkajNcVKqe0CtmSawnm:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:61Pg1AbGl9HpKQxRPe8gFS:small" target="_self">spotify:track:61Pg1AbGl9HpKQxRPe8gFS:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%"><A href="spotify:track:5LZKy54mSV44Z8bFx5nr0U:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5LZKy54mSV44Z8bFx5nr0U:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>And speaking of metalcore greats, I want to give a shoutout to Spencer Sotelo of the absolutely mindblowing Periphery! Now, that's a band traditionally known for the insane instrumentals and brilliant song compositions and while all that is absolutely deserved, many seem to somewhat neglect Spencer and his incredible vocal work! This is a man that can seemingly do anything - hardcore screams, death growls, melodic lines with very dynamic delivery, super high notes and so much more. He has an insane vocal range and an even more unbelievable array of skills and techniques at his disposal. His versatility perfect fits the varied and chaotic music of the band. The instrumental work is mindblowing, but somehow the vocals keep up and even outshine them at times! Now that's impressive!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1EhBBK6D4P8N6LiraaZWFD:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1EhBBK6D4P8N6LiraaZWFD:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2iEQ77jygehKATBg1NkeEs:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2iEQ77jygehKATBg1NkeEs:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0zG6OyMIX68nPOuYr1HM4r:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0zG6OyMIX68nPOuYr1HM4r:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:268vGoZK2mIc9VAjN7imYM:small" target="_self">spotify:track:268vGoZK2mIc9VAjN7imYM:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:6TUdI0cArm5mIu2r9CQ3V5:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6TUdI0cArm5mIu2r9CQ3V5:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1YuKjiFTq7TCxgrcrDWphr:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1YuKjiFTq7TCxgrcrDWphr:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:5fgmFZpsqaRlV6Q8oKxXav:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5fgmFZpsqaRlV6Q8oKxXav:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:23UabgkOE0AMUZ6Z8ZFAgN:small" target="_self">spotify:track:23UabgkOE0AMUZ6Z8ZFAgN:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:2AwB4j9bylmtYAxOrs4p6G:small" target="_self">spotify:track:2AwB4j9bylmtYAxOrs4p6G:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>And as a final, more unique shoutout, let's give the deserved flowers to two English legends, two of the most unique and unforgettable voices across all of music - Chris Rea and Joe Cocker! As of last year, both are sadly no longer with us, but they have left a legacy like no other that will live on in eternity. Both were known, besides their amazingly rich musical compositions, for their gruff, husky and gravelly voices, like the engine of an oldtimer car that isn't as polished or smooth as the new ones, but still runs perfectly and often outpaces the youngsters. Rea's voice is rough, yet oddly velvety and has a lot of depth and subtle richness, which he supplements with his incredible bluesy guitar playing. Meanwhile, Cocker's voice is unconventionally powerful and uplifting. Thanks to that and his unique stage presence, he immediately commands attention and with a strong and varied delivery, he'll take you on a true adventure! Both were geniuses in their respective ways and nobody will ever sound like them again.</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <TABLE border="1" width="100%"> <TBODY> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4EnKWWf3YhlQc4J1iENf4c:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4EnKWWf3YhlQc4J1iENf4c:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:5QrNXvTQEuBb5iLoIAAuvk:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5QrNXvTQEuBb5iLoIAAuvk:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0UHiH4dy1hXULYl8CgNxRV:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0UHiH4dy1hXULYl8CgNxRV:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:7iJmWC3h8tJOCK4OzPFZ2c:small" target="_self">spotify:track:7iJmWC3h8tJOCK4OzPFZ2c:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:6vuMM8JpVhIdVf1tpixg7o:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6vuMM8JpVhIdVf1tpixg7o:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:5ndGBOAluzjCr4wTqyIUk9:small" target="_self">spotify:track:5ndGBOAluzjCr4wTqyIUk9:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:6oyYKWTbYt5Zb8tIiLZbmH:small" target="_self">spotify:track:6oyYKWTbYt5Zb8tIiLZbmH:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4U6mBgGP8FXN6UH4T3AJhu:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4U6mBgGP8FXN6UH4T3AJhu:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1x9iOd3K1JC6tdjGZJpFgZ:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1x9iOd3K1JC6tdjGZJpFgZ:small</A> </TD> </TR> <TR> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:1gJOqXpRjz9GeEEwQpcujK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:1gJOqXpRjz9GeEEwQpcujK:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:0YZ3J8xzGwLOg4yEgST1YK:small" target="_self">spotify:track:0YZ3J8xzGwLOg4yEgST1YK:small</A> </TD> <TD width="33.333333333333336%" height="30px"><A href="spotify:track:4CRHLt2NRl4qAV0qdpM8AN:small" target="_self">spotify:track:4CRHLt2NRl4qAV0qdpM8AN:small</A> </TD> </TR> </TBODY> </TABLE> <P> </P> <P><SPAN>So that's a wrap on part 2 of the amazing vocalists that ring inside my heart! Will there be a part 3? Can't say, but you never know. There's more where that came from, that's for sure. And this definitely opens the floodgates for more installments of the other musician blogs too. Come whatever may. In any case, I hope these amazing performers have captured your imagination as well and that their voice can guide you across amazing journeys too! There's something special when you find a singer, whose entire package appeals to you - from sound of the voice, to technique and deliver, to lyrics and stage presence as well. It's all the ingredients of greatness and the formula of how music can become truly magical. Hope you liked it. Take care, love yourselves, love each other and see you again soon!</SPAN></P> <P> </P> <P><A href="spotify:playlist:02sl2f0HN9GuQE9pLKkPTi" target="_self">spotify:playlist:02sl2f0HN9GuQE9pLKkPTi</A> </P> <P> </P> <P><A href="https://community.spotify.com/t5/Music-Discussion/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-The-Index/td-p/7062437" target="_blank">Check out all Blogs in The Index!</A></P> Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:47:31 GMT Joan 2026-04-16T13:47:31Z JJ's Bizarre Blog #72 - Voices of the Soul II: They Speak to Me, They Understand https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-72-Voices-of-the-Soul-II-They-Speak-to-Me-They/ba-p/7338512 <P><span class="lia-inline-image-display-wrapper lia-image-align-inline" image-alt="Music Bogs.jpg" style="width: 400px;"><img src="https://community.spotify.com/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/204600iBC7352DB4728849F/image-size/medium?v=v2&px=400" role="button" title="Music Bogs.jpg" alt="Music Bogs.jpg" /></span></P> Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:47:31 GMT https://community.spotify.com/t5/Community-Blog/JJ-s-Bizarre-Blog-72-Voices-of-the-Soul-II-They-Speak-to-Me-They/ba-p/7338512 Joan 2026-04-16T13:47:31Z