REBEL seems extremely unrebelious, polished and by the numbers. Doesn't really live up to its name, imo. I'm going with my pick, Joey Valence & Brae are pure fun. Love that jungle breakdown. _________________ Overall chart Fake overall chart
Musically, neither song is "rebellious" at all, as both rely on genres/styles that have been around for decades. But lyrically, the Anne Wilson song is a refreshing change of pace from the obvious edgelord cliches from Joey Valence & Brae & countless others in recent years. Plus, it's a catchier melody I can see myself humming along to even though I'm not a big country fan.
And though I'm not a Christian, I like the message of Jesus being a true rebel, i.e.- someone who isn't afraid to defy the current dominant narratives even if it gets them in trouble, instead of someone who lazily regurgitates dominant narratives like a coward while pretending that they're "brave" and edgy.
Last edited by BorderFreeAndrew on 02/06/2025 14:14; edited 1 time in total
Musically, neither song is "rebellious" at all, as both rely on genres/styles that have been around for decades. But lyrically, the Anne Wilson song is a refreshing change of pace from the obvious edgelord cliches from Joey Valence & Brae & countless others in recent years. Plus, it's a catchier melody I can see myself humming along to even though I'm not a big country fan.
And though I'm not a Christian, I like the message of Jesus being a true rebel, i.e.- someone who isn't afraid to defy the current dominant narratives even if it gets them in trouble, instead of someone who lazily regurgitates dominant narratives like a coward while pretending that they're "brave" and edgy.
the obvious edgelord cliches from Joey Valence & Brae & countless others in recent years
...
someone who lazily regurgitates dominant narratives like a coward while pretending that they're "brave" and edgy.
I mean I get where you're coming from, but that point is kinda wrong since Valence & Brae obviously have an ironic take on this type of overtly edgy and boastful rap. They make a sincere mockery of it, while using the same tropes to their advantage. It shows both their deep appreciation of over-the-top rap (which can certainly be great and fun when done right), as well as acknowledgement of this style's problems; for instance, being edgy just for its sake. And all the while incorporating Beastie Boys-type pop culture references. Even if the "rebelliousness" can be somewhat disputed, the lyrics definitely don't sound like they're trying to be "brave", imo.
And musically, sure, it's regurgitating ideas from the past, but they mash them together in a wonderful and decently unique way. A random jungle breakdown? The crazy overdriven bass? Vinyl spin and that fantastic second outro? It's an original collage.
Valence & Brae obviously have an ironic take on this type of overtly edgy and boastful rap. They make a sincere mockery of it, while using the same tropes to their advantage. It shows both their deep appreciation of over-the-top rap (which can certainly be great and fun when done right), as well as acknowledgement of this style's problems; for instance, being edgy just for its sake. And all the while incorporating Beastie Boys-type pop culture references. Even if the "rebelliousness" can be somewhat disputed, the lyrics definitely don't sound like they're trying to be "brave", imo.
And musically, sure, it's regurgitating ideas from the past, but they mash them together in a wonderful and decently unique way. A random jungle breakdown? The crazy overdriven bass? Vinyl spin and that fantastic second outro? It's an original collage.
I should have clarified - my reference to bravery vs cowardice wasn't directed at the Valence & Brae song specifically. I was referring to a previous comment suggesting the Anne Wilson song wasn't rebellious, and trying to make a larger point about what gets considered "rebellious" and what doesn't. I get that the Valence & Brae song is ironic/silly/parody, not a serious statement. I just didn't find it funny or creative enough for what it was trying to do. Sorry if my comment was confusing.
they will call themselves rebels when they come. they will fly around in their hover-ships and scoop us up like mice. they will bash in our brains and bussit up. bussit up. bussit up. both of these things scare me. i voted abstinence. _________________ follow me on the bandcamp.
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