At its heart, music is all about emotion. Texan metal crew Upon a Burning Body know this. Just listen to their new, fifth album, Southern Hostility — due June 7th, via Seek and Strike — and you’ll hear an intense outpouring of rage, defiance, joy and more. With this in mind we caught up with Upon a Burning Body’s Ruben Alvarez to find out what music he listens to for every mood. Read on to find out the songs that the guitarist turns to when shaking off the morning grogginess, looking for a pick-me-up and more.
When I pissed off:
Pantera – “Domination”
This is a song that makes you want to punch someone in the face, so if you hear it playing in the background somewhere, it’s getting rowdy!
When I’m feeling depressed:
Boston – “More Than Feeling”
This song will do the trick to lift the spirits. “More Than a Feeling” is my jam! Just sit outside, close your eyes and let the music do the rest.
When I get up in the morning:
Rage Against The Machine – “Killing In The Name”
Morning jams are usually something that has to have some bounce to it and a ton groove to get that blood flowing!
When I go to bed:
Pink Floyd – “Comfortably Numb”
Definitely something chill. Pink Floyd have so many jams to put you in that relaxed state. You can never go wrong with anything off of Dark Side of the Moon.
When I’m hungover:
Stone Temple Pilots – “PLUSH”
When I’m hungover, usually it’s something chill to combat the headache — if anything. Any kind of acoustic rendition would be great, too!
When I’m getting it on:
Alice In Chains – “Rooster”
It really depends on the mood! Alice in Chains always have real sensual jams, kinda trance-like.
Song that changed my life:
Slipknot – “Left Behind”
This was the track that changed it all for me. Watching the music video and hearing Iowa changed the way I listened to music forever. I defiantly wouldn’t have taken the path I did if I never heard Slipknot.
Song I wish I wrote:
Iron Maiden – “The Trooper”
One of the most iconic guitar riffs ever made, and who doesn’t like dueling guitar harmonies?!
