J.A.M.

"Heavy Is As Heavy Does" by Menomena is a surprisingly intimate rock ballad, implying emotions in a direct manner.

"Point #1" by Chevelle carries the angst of the average alternative metal band with sophistication, creating an atmosphere of frustration. The music's intelligent simplicity differentiates this song from the band's peers.

"Descent Into Chaotic Dream" by Evoken moves like an immensely viscous liquid: slowly, yet not runny. Atmospheric touches breathe life into this funeral doom piece where otherwise the music would drag.

"The Pragmatist" by Mares of Thrace is incisive and ferocious, taking angry punk-influenced metal to another level. Not for the light hearted.

"A Snow Light" from Tales of Symphonia is a joyful waltz carried by orchestral instruments.

Much like a dubstep song, "Underground Army" from The Dark Knight Rises is dominant in bass sounds, creating a grim texture. Its unrelenting nature builds up a tension.

"Supa Shoppa" by Blur is a happy ska-esque instrumental rock piece that my friend Justin would probably dance too. The flute's nice as well.

"Adrenaline" from Call of Duty: Black Ops II is an aptly named electronic piece with hints of influence from modern rock and Persian traditional music. Despite minimal dynamics the piece manages to sound fairly epic.

SONGS

"Light Inside Darkness" from Penumbra Overture transcends dry "scary" music through its satisfying blend of synthesizers and neoclassical tendencies that evoke fear-tinged sorrow

"Shout (For Jane Maru)" by Harold Budd captures the essence of winter through its somber and reserved classical palette. The entire piece is numerous occasionally overlapping solos spaced out over the length.

"Ape Dos Mil" by Glassjaw subverts pop-oriented post-hardcore with slight, nuanced changes.

"Abandoned Castle" from Castlevania: Curse of Darkness, while seeming like every other castle theme at first, becomes energized through the introduction of fiery rock instrumentation and obligatory synthesizer.