Top 10 Heavy Metal Guitar Solos

They make playing heavy metal look easy. Welcome to Kiker's Blog, and today I'm listing my top 10 heavy metal guitar solos. For this list I limited it to one song per artist. Also keep in mind that this list is focused mainly on heavy metal, so no hard rock acts like Van Halen, or Aerosmith.

10. Powerslave-Iron Maiden
What do you do when you have three guitarists in your band? Have them take part in an epic three way solo. They didn't track the original recording, but that doesn't stop them from bringing down the house these days. Starting with a slow melodic melody that that builds into a heavy eruption, Powerslave has it all.

9. Floods-Pantera
Pantera is considered by many to be one of the greatest metal bands of all time, and for good reason. Aside from clever lyrics and an awesome attitude, late guitarist Dimebag Darrel is respected and viewed as one of the greatest guitarists that ever lived. Throughout his career he gave us many memorable solos like the one from Cemetery Gates, but Floods is the most unique and different. It may be slower paced and less flashy, buy it never loses the heaviness that was Darrel's trademark.

8. Afterlife-Avenged Sevenfold
Some guitar solos are all about flash, and Avenged Sevenfold has that and more. Reminisced of the many bands that influenced them, the Afterlife solo is lightning fast and dares anyone to try and keep up. It's old school metal mixed with modern metal. As part of a mainstream band, guitarist Synyster Gates introduces the art of the heavy metal solo to those who might not have had exposure. And helped the band reach the top 20 on the Billboard rock chart.

7. You Don't Remember, I'll Never Forget-Yngwie Malmsteen
With a name like that, you know you're in for a rockin' good time. Listening to the riffs alone will give you goosebumps. Though Malmsteen's discography is highlighted by epic instrumentals like the Iconic Black Star, You Don't Remember, I'll Never forget is one of his few songs that has lyrics. If there was a solo that told you what period of time you were in, this would be it.

6. Seasons in the Abyss-Slayer
Even if you just say the word Slayer, every metal fan will know what you're talking about. One of the best reasons to head bang is this track from their fifth album of the same name. Blindingly fast and unapologetic, Slayer brings the pain. It's as about as metal as you can get.

5. Painkiller-Judas Priest
If there is any band that knows how to make a heavy metal anthem, it's Judas Priest. Glen Tipton and K.K. Downing are masters of their craft. Two is better than one, and combining these two made the perfect combination. Painkiller cranks the amp to 11, then 12, then beyond. This song is what speed metal is all about, and my neck is still sore from banging my head.

4. Children of the Grave-Black Sabbath
Guitarist Tony Iomi one one of the reasons why Black Sabbath is one of the key originators in heavy metal. Many credit Iomi's ingenuity as inspiration, and credited his work as a milestone. The solo from Children of the Grave is clearly of of his best and showcases everything Black Sabbath is about.

3. Mr. Crowley-Ozzy Osbourne
It's a little weird to have Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne next to each other on this list, right? However Randy Rhoad's solo is hands down one of the best guitar solos ever regardless of genre. It's an extension of the song, but it doesn't have a personality of its own, which is exactly what a guitar solo should be. Rhoad's career is full of successes, and this is one of them.

2. Tornado of Souls-Megadeath
For those of you that don't know, Dave Mustaine used to be in Metallica before being kicked out, but that didn't stop him from forming a little band of his own. He does have a number of fine solos in his catalog along with his band mate Marty Friedman who delivered a masterpiece on Tornado of Souls. Lengthy, rip-roaring, and full of shred, it's exactly what a heavy metal guitar solo should be.

Honorable Mentions:

Through the Fire and the Flames-Dragonforce

The Dark Eternal Night-Dream Theater

Hard To See-Five Finger Death Punch

Back In Black-AC/DC

Feed My Frankenstein-Alice Cooper

1. One-Metallica
When it comes to lead guitarist Kirk Hammett, there are a lot of solos to listen to in order to determine which one is the best. For example there's the very popular and iconic power ballad Fade to Black. After much thought, I settled on One. The reason is simple: if I have to explain Metallica to someone who hasn't heard of them, this is the song I play. Fast, melodic, and beautiful, this track off of ...And Justice For All is the essence of a Kirk Hammett solo. The song also made for a perfect first music video.

Top 10 Guitar Solos

It takes a whole band to rock, but these solos will make you roll. Welcome to Kiker’s Blog, and today I’m listing my top 10 guitar solos. For this list I limited it to one solo per artist/group, and excluded instrumentals.

10. Ritchie Blackmore from Deep Purple-Highway Star

With Smoke on the Water, the Deep Purple guitarist paved the way for classical music and blues rock; and brought to life one of the most iconic riffs in history. However, when it comes to solos it’s hard to overlook Highway Star.

9. Eric Clapton from Cream-Crossroads

As one of the greatest guitarists of all time, it’s no surprise Clapton has a number of signature solos under his belt. While he made history with Layla’s signature sound, it’s with Crossroad’s solo that he really nails it. In fact, this arrangement of Robert Johnson’s original blues tune is so good; I think he might have signed a deal with the devil too.

8. Randy Rhoads from Ozzy Osbourne-Mr. Crowley

Rhoads exploded into the heavy metal universe after giving Ozzy Osbourne’s music a new life. While Crazy Train features one of the genres most iconic riffs, it’s actually the second single from the same album that captures Rhoads’ guitar skills best. Mr. Crowley contains not one, not two, but three stand out guitar moments, but the masterpiece’s climax is the best solo of the song.

7. Joe Walsh from Eagles-Hotel California

The Eagles produced another number one hit with Hotel California. That record spawned the smooth and soulful title track that classic rock stations won’t let us forget. Aside from its surrealist lyrics, Hotel California showcases some of the most memorable electric guitar chemistry ever between Walsh & Felder.

6. Allen Collins & Gary Rossington from Lynyrd Skynyrd-Freebird

With their defiant solos and remarkable rock and roll swagger, Lynyrd Skynyrd became fixtures of the southern rock scene. It’s because of this that Lynyrd Skynyrd became a household name across America. Due in no small part to its structure, half ballad, half up tempo guitar solo, Freebird also became their second top 40 hit. Keeping crowds pumped for decades.

5. Brian May from Queen-Bohemian Rhapsody

With Freddie Mercury’s theatrical vocals and lively stage presence as with May’s virtuoso guitar abilities, Queen scored big overseas thanks to Bohemian Rhapsody. Featuring elements of hard rock, balladry, and opera, its unconventional style initially baffled critics. Today it’s one of the Brit’s most popular songs. It’s in this melodic chorus less tune that May played one of the most incredible solos ever. And the song wouldn’t be the same without it

4. Jimi Hendrix from the Jimi Hendrix Experience-All Along the Watchtower

Though Purple Haze or Voodoo Child could’ve easily made this list, it’s this iconic guitarist’s legendary cover of All Along the Watchtower that lands a spot on my list. The Jimi Hendrix Experience gave Bob Dylan’s folk rock original a psychedelic rock spin which included a killer guitar solo that helped Hendrix earn his only top 20 American hit. Even Dylan was inspired; his later performances of the track were influenced by Jimi’s version.

3. Slash from Guns N’ Roses-Sweet Child O’ Mine

While Slash stood out on a wide range of songs from Night Train to Welcome to the Jungle, it’s Sweet Child O’ Mine that set the stage for the band’s later work. Though its brilliant riff was conceived as a joke, the track’s chart topping success and incredible solo were anything but a joke. Appetite for Destruction also became the best-selling debut album in American history.

2. Jimmy Paige from Led Zeppelin-Stairway to Heaven

No list of the op guitar solos would be complete without Stairway to Heaven. With Robert Plant’s incredible vocals and Bonham’s thunderous bass drum, you have an unmatched sound blending blues, hard rock, and folk. However, it’s Paige’s complex guitar work that’s truly left a measurable influence on later artists.

Honorable Mentions:

Chuck Berry-Johnny B. Goode

John Frusciante from Red Hot Chili Peppers-Dani California

Billy Gibbons from ZZ Top-Sharp Dressed Man

George Harrison from The Beatles-Twist and Shout

Alex Lifeson from Rush-Limelight

Eddie Van Halen from Van Halen-Hot For Teacher

1. David Gilmour from Pink Floyd-Comfortably Numb

The third single from The Wall ensured fans that they weren’t numb to their music. They may have been known for introspective lyrics, studio experimentation, extravagant shows, but their sound wouldn’t have been the same without Gilmour. His blues inspired guitar on Comfortably Numb’s final solo helped solidify the band’s popularity and success.

Top 10 Coolest Movie Characters

They're the coolest person in any room. Welcome to Kiker's Blog, and today I'm listing my top 10 coolest movie characters. For this list I'm looking at the coolest movie characters only, so TV characters need not apply. Also superheroes like Tony Stark didn't make it. 

10. Trent Walker-Swingers

A quick-witted, good looking actor, Vince Vaughn made Trent the perfect man to shepherd his lonely friend who just can't let go of his previous relationship in Swingers. Trent is there at every turn to teach any and all of his friends how to handle every aspect of getting a lady while simultaneously working to rebuild the shattered ego of his friend. Trent is undoubtedly the alpha dog in this movie. 

9. Axel Foley-Beverly Hills Cop franchise

When this street smart cop from Detroit finds himself in Beverly Hills, he's able to employ his natural charm and the tricks he learned along the way to outwit every other cop in the city. Prior to Eddie Murphy landing the role, Mickey Rourke and Sylvester Stalone almost brought the character that would make Murphy a star to the big screen. Though those two stared in several films that we love, it's the comedic timing and improvisational feel that Murphy brings to Foley that lands him on this list.

8. Tyler Durden-Fight Club

Tyler is one of the few who lives outside of the lifestyle of visceral men who want to break out of society's barriers that most of us comply with. As a result, he leaves the audience wanting to do the same during every viewing of Fight Club. Durden lives in a run down apartment that leaks and floods with brown water; yet somehow he leaves the audience envious of the life he lives. It could be his lack of compromise, or his ability to lead. Either way, he makes it all look cool. 

7. James Bond-James Bond franchise

This spy genre of films is populated with characters who are trying to be cool. Whether it's gadgets, or his entire demeanor, James Bond is the best of them all because he doesn't need to try. Often considered one of the greatest film heroes ever, audiences can assume that Mr. Bond can save the day and get the girl in the end. To top things off, 007 always does things in style even over 20 films later.

6. Danny Ocean-Oceans trilogy

It took a huge amount of charm and presence for George Clooney's character to outshine Frank Sinatra's version. In the 2001 remake, Danny is the brains behind a group of criminals that manages to pull off the impossible. Danny rolls with whatever changes come his way, and always makes sure that everything works to his advantage. He's cool, calm, and collected through and through.

5. John Shaft-Shaft franchise

Shaft is the black private dick that's a sex machine to all the chicks, and we can all dig it. Whether it's the clothes he wore, the women he slept with, or the attitude, he made it clear that he's not one to be messed with. One thing's for certain; Shaft was is, and always will be the man.

4. Rick Blaine-Casablanca

"We'll always have Paris." And we'll always have rick Blaine thanks to this iconic romantic drama, and one of the greatest films of all time. As the owner of a high-class Morocco night club, he's jaded on the outside, but underneath the cool exterior is a man who's torn between love and virtue. With a sketchy background that adds to his mystique, Rick is the tough, but smart guy in a trench coat. He sticks his neck out for nobody, and is the envy of all other men. Here's looking at you Rick!

3. Jim Stark-Rebel Without a Cause

James Dean's short lived film career defined what is was to be cool for a generation. It was this character from the mid 50's drama that defined his legacy the most. The fact that the actor died in a high speed car crash shortly before the film was released put even more weight on Dean's shoulders. He portrayed a teen trying to make sense of the world he lives in, but in a unique, interesting way. James Dean made this character into one that we can relate to. 

2. Han Solo-Star Wars

Luke Skywalker may be the ultimate hero of the Star Wars saga, but it's his friend Han that audiences always wanted to be. Han is a scoundrel with a heart of gold, and is always interested in making a quick buck. He'll also save the day along the way. 

Honorable mentions:

Butch Cassidy-Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

Crash Davis-Bull Durham

Jules Winnfield-Pulp Fiction

Jacob Palmer-Crazy, Stupid, Love

Ferris Bueller-Ferris Bueller's Day Off

1. Jeff "the Dude" Lebowski-The Big Lebowski

All he wanted to do was bowl, drink a White Russian, and get high. Instead the Dude finds himself in the middle of intrigue and violence. He does raise his voice in a scene or two, but the Dude is mostly relaxed and takes everything in stride. There's one thing that's for certain; the Dude abides, and we take comfort in that.

Mulaney: The New Seinfeld?

In the late 80's and early 90's, it seemed every comedian had their own sitcom. Most were simply "based on the comedy" of the main character, putting the star in situations that provided the best situation in each episode. Whether it was Roseanne, or Home Improvement, The Cosby Show, or Everybody Loves Raymond, the comedian was never a comedian on the series. Except, of course, on Seinfeld, probably the most successful and influential of them all.

Since the "show about nothing," several stand-ups have followed in their footsteps with series that followed a version of their lives in comedy. Curb and Louie come to mind, but the format has strayed from the milti-camera, laugh track days of Seinfeld. Until now. Twenty-five years after Seinfeld debuted, Fox is trying to make history repeat itself with an obvious homage to the ground-breaking NBC sitcom. So, what's the deal with Mulaney? Sadly, the great material at the heart of the throwback comedy can't save it from feeling out of time. Believe me, we all know how important timing is for comedy.

Part of Fox's new Sunday Funday lineup, Mulaney follows an up-and-coming New York stand up comedian named John Mulaney. His roommates include an uptight personal trainer named Jane, played by formerr SNL cast member Nasim Pedrad, and Seaton Smith as Motif, another struggling but working comic. Another veteran of Saturday Night Live, Martin Short stars as Mulaney's new boss, a self-absorbed comic legend turned game show host named Lou Cannon. Also in the cast are Zach Pearlman, who plays trust-fund baby/drug dealer/punching bag Andre, and Academy Award nominee Elliott Gould, who is the elderly Jewish stoner neighbor named Oscar.

The main problem for any throwback is to avoid feeling dated, and Mulaney suffers by not adding a new spin on the old formula. It is Seinfeld all the way down to the stand-up sequences and noise between transitions. I promised myself I wouldn't mention Seinfeld in this entry, but that's nearly impossible. Even the sitcom itself calls Mulaney (the character) a 'Seinfeld ripoff' in the much improved fourth episode, titled "Sweet Jane," that dramatizes his bit about the impossibility of forcing girls to be friends.

The good news is that the Fox series does get better with each installment. the bad news is that the pilot is terrible, so getting worse was practically an impossibility. None of this is good for me because I'm a fan of Mulaney's work, the stuff he wrote for SNL (including Stefon and his two Weekend Update appearances), his stand-up bits with Nick Kroll on Kroll Show. He's funny, but his show is not good and I don't know why. The pilot got no laughs out of me and that's not good for a comedy.

Perhaps having seen some of the material before cause some would-be laughs to become smiles? I'm willing to admit that maybe Mulaney doesn't feel fresh to me because I've already heard the jokes and not because of the well-worn format. However, I don't think that's the case. I like the cast, and the show does improve with every episode (I've seen five), just not enough to recommend when there's so much more to watch on Sunday nights.

Top 10 Rock Drummers

These guys rocked to the beat of a different drum. Welcome to Kiker's Blog, and today I'm listing my top 10 rock drummers. For this list I chose standout drummers who were the perfect mix of technical talent, popularity, and who proved themselves essential to the music of the bands they were in. I'm excluding drummers from genres such as heavy metal, hip hop, and jazz.

10. Phil Collins-Genesis
As Genesis evolved from progressive to pop rock, Collins showcased a strong musicality and versatility on the drums. Audiences were also impressed with his rare talent of singing and drumming simultaneously. Though he played jazz fusion, folk, and blues in other projects, it was as a solo artist that Collins found further success; with the gated reverb of In The Air Tonight shaping much of the 80's pop drum sound.

9. Nick Mason-Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd wouldn't have been the same without Mason, who was the only unchanging band member on all their records. Weather playing acoustic, or electronic drums, or even percussion, he knew how to bring everything together to complete the psychedelic and progressive rock sound. The proficient studio musician also also knew how to show off on stage as demonstrated by the band's heavy and extravagant live performances.

8. Ringo Starr-The Beatles
He may not have been the finest technical drummer ever, but his offbeat and creative style helped build The Beatles' sound we love. Despite being left-handed, Starr used a right-handed kit to keep the beat and ensured the tempo was just right. His crucial contributions showed that drummers can be just as important to songwriting as other band members, and influenced countless drummers from then on. 

7. Mitch Mitchell-The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Mitchell's session drumming including his time with The Who landed him a permanent spot in The Jimi Hendrix Experience's lineup. By fusing his Jazz influences with rock, he developed a rhythmic and melodic playing style that perfectly complimented the music. Mitchell's heavy beats, snare drum stroke patterns, rolls, and fills were also a source of creativity for Hendrix in studio and on stage.

6. Ginger Baker-Cream
Cream's blues and psychedelic rock would've been very different without Baker's flashy jazz inspired drums. While in the group, the drummer broke new ground by using double bass drums and playing lengthy solos. Baker continued to find success with his world music after the breakup of Cream, but it was his booming 60's style that set the stage for today's heavy metal drummers.

5. Stewart Copeland-The Police
He helped craft The Police's new wave mix of punk, reggae, and jazz by incorporating those styles with his rock and Middle Eastern influences. Known for using accented beats and splash cymbals, he had a highly defined and innovative technique and had a nack for enhancing songs with groove.

4. Dave Grohl-Nirvana, Queens of the Stone Age, Them Crooked Vultures
He's best known as the frontman for Foo Fighters, but this multi-instrumentalist first made waves by hitting hard and fast in several bands. It was his fierce and intense drumming in Nirvana that cemented Grohl's place in grunge. The nicest guy in rock further flaunted his passion for drums by lending his passion for drums by lending his talents to Queens of the Stone Age, Them Crooked Vultures, and many more. 

3. Keith Moon-The Who
Moon lived life as wildly as he played the drums. Knowing his time was cut short, his ingenious and frenzy drumming lived on. With an intense and sensational style, Moon epitomized sex, drugs, and rock and roll. He also proved fundamental to The Who's sound with his back beats and double bass drum playing. He often stole the spotlight with his explosive antics. 

2. John Bonham-Led Zeppelin
Thanks to his speed, heavy drumsticks, powerful arms and rapid right foot, Bonham's thunderous bass drum was unlike anything anyone had ever seen. His talent for finding the groove and mighty drum solos helped forge Led Zeppelin's original and unforgettable blend of hard rock, blues, and folk. Despite his short life, Bonham's style remains unmatched and fans, critics, and musicians alike continue to crown him one of the all time greatest drummers.

Honorable Mentions:

Tré Cool-Green Day

Mike Portnoy-Dream Theater

Phil Rudd-AC/DC

Chad Smith-Red Hot Chili Peppers 

1. Neil Peart-Rush
From hard rock to jazz then to progressive rock, Peart could play it all and he could play it well. The Award winning drummer distinguished himself with his unconventional time signatures and unique rhythmic styles, but also displayed extreme endurance by playing extensive live solos on massive drum kits. Respected for his technical experience, he is known for reversing his drum sticks to make heavier sounds.

Breaking Bad

WARNING: The following blog entry contains spoilers

In a world where TV has replaced movies as a medium for adult entertainment comes the best HBO style drama (that can't use the F word or show any boobs, yet it's so good) that finally made TV fanatics shut up about The Wire: Breaking Bad. Breaking Bad is literally the greatest TV series I have ever watched. The show is so powerful I binge watch it on Netflix, so all-consuming I push it on my friends even if they don;t watch TV, and so addicting I can't shut up about it; it's basically like drugs.

Premise: Set in scenic New Mexico (because state tax laws make it cheaper to shoot there than Los Angeles), chemistry teacher Walter White has been diagnosed with the kind of cancer that makes him cough...a lot. Walt teams up with his junkie former student to cook crystal meth. He cooks and sells meth to pay for his expensive cancer treatments, then to save money for his family's future, and then just because he loves it. His partner Jesse Pinkman: a junkie who prefers the formal term for female dog. Together they battle the baddest villains in television history (all of whom happen to be angry Latino men). Walt also has trouble at home: there's his annoying wife Skylar. At first I wished she would just go away, then I wished she could just get away because it just so happens she's married to a complete sociopath. There's also a baby named Holly...who only shows up when it's convenient. His son Walter Jr. who...I don't know if I can make fun of him. And a brother-in-law DEA agent who's terrible at telling jokes, and is even worse at noticing his family is running a crystal meth empire.

If you haven't seen this show: prepare yourself for five epic seasons of awesome, unforgettable moments. Such as explosions, a dead corpse dissolved through a bathtub, and intense dialogue. However, like any other AMC drama there's a lot of boring moments. It takes a while to pay off, but the intensity of the story makes it totally worth it. This is a show where anyone can be killed at any time and in any way: from box cutter, to bike lock, to ATM machine, to decapitated head turtle bomb, to exploding grandpa, to overdosing on heroin, do AED machine, to Pontiac Aztec (now that's product placement!).

Running gags: Breakfast, POV shots, Marie always wearing purple, bald guys, foreshadowing, magnets, rocks (sorry, minerals)

Starring: Bryan Cranston (Malcolm's dad from Malcolm in the Middle), Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul (the guy who won a desk on the price is right), Dean Norris (this guy always plays a cop), RJ Mitte (his disability made him famous), Bob Odenkirk (half of Mr. Show)

Seriously, if you haven't started watching this show, you better start ASAP.

Top 10 Rock Bassists

They know how to slap the bass. Welcome to Kiker's Blog and today I'm listing my top 10 rock bassists. For this list, I'm focusing on bassists who are innovative, great songwriters, or standout bassists with a commercially successful track record. I'm focusing less on session players and technical masterminds.

10. John Myung-Dream Theater
As one of the progressive metal group's founders and longest serving members, John Myung has helped shape Dream Theater's sound since day one. His highly technical style includes the use of finger picking, slapping, popping, and tapping. He's also distinguished himself by playing a 6 string bass which produces such complex and harmonious sounds, and are the core of the band's sounds.

9. John Deacon-Queen
Though he later played other instruments, it was his incredible bass playing that gave him the job with Queen when he was just 19. In addition to writing several Queen hits, John Deacon provided the unmistakable bass riff for their biggest American hit: Another One Bites The Dust. Known for using the instrument for playing both lead and rhythm, Deacon's proficiency was expressed through his bass runs and swift transitions.

8. Steve Harris-Iron Maiden
While he founded Iron Maiden and is the band's primary songwriter, Steve Harris has made a name for himself for his ability to play the bass. Thanks to his bass lines, finger picking techniques, and unique tone, Harris has made the bass as inexplicable to the band's sound as the guitar. Notable tracks include Running Free, Wrathchild, and The Trooper.

7. Les Claypool-Primus
Since he does double duty as Primus' vocalist and bassist, its obvious that Les Claypool is multi talented. Influenced by Rush's Geddy Lee, Claypool became a master of slap bass and helped bring the original and funk fueled sounds of Primus into the mainstream. His bass playing style is notable for incorporating several effects: distortion, tapping, and Spanish inspired strumming.

6. John Entwistle-The Who
With a nickname like thunder fingers, is it any surprise John Entwistle's skills on the four string bass are so highly regarded? The British musician used his formal music training to develop a hard hitting style that made him a pioneer of playing the bass like a lead instrument. Though he knew when and how to unleash his power, he also knew when to hold back. His bass playing was perfect for The Who's sound.

5. Flea-Red Hot Chili Peppers
As co-founder, there's no question that Flea has been instrumental to the Red Hot Chili Peppers' success. Though he mixes up different musical genres, Flea's trademark is his slap bass style which is the foundation of the funky flavors in the chili peppers' sound. He's also experimented with popping techniques, aggressive punk rock playing, and melodic simplicity.

4. John Paul Jones-Led Zeppelin
He may be a milti instrumentalist, but John Paul Jones will always be remembered for his groundbreaking bass. Just check out his dynamic and melodic sound on Ramble On, and how his memorable sound drives Dazed and Confused. While he also came up with the main riff for Black Dog, it's Jones' chemistry with drummer John Bonham as Led Zeppelin's rhythm section that truly made music history.

3. Cliff Burton-Metallica
Though he only lived to contribute three Metallica albums, Cliff Burton still left us a memorable discography filled with his amazing bass playing. By using it more than a lead guitar than a backup rhythm instrument, the musician helped the ban d become one of thrash metal's big four. Their heavy early sound and technical skills certainly wouldn't be the same without him. Just check out Burton's playing on the instrumental Orion for proof.

2. Paul McCartney-The Beatles
Known as one of the Fab Four, there's simply no arguing Paul McCartney's success and musical talents. McCartney not only impacted Rock and Roll with his vocals and his songwriting partnership with the late John Lennon, but also with his creative and melodic bass playing. The versatile musician is also known for his ability to expertly connect chords together to make iconic and elegant bass lines.

Here are a few Honorable Mentions:

Tom Araya-Slayer

Jack Bruce-Cream

Geezer Butler-Black Sabbath

Mike Dirnt-Green Day

Jason Newsted-Metallica/Echobrain/Newsted

Robert Trujillo-Metallica

1. Geddy Lee-Rush
Topping my list is the singer/songwriter/bassist/keyboardist of the most advanced and technically sound band in the history of music. While Rush has proven their persistence, musicianship, and ambition multiple times, Geddy Lee is continually cited as one of the biggest influences on bassists everywhere. While his complex bass playing is already impressive, it's the fact that Lee sings, plays keyboards and plays bass that gives him the edge.

Agree? Who's your favorite bassist?

Top 10 Modern Day Filmmakers

They're behind some of the greatest films ever made. Welcome to Kiker's Blog and today I'm listing my top 10 modern day film directors. I'm listing directors that have found mega critical and commercial success in the last 25 years. Though their success doesn't have to be limited to this period. I'm basing my choices on a mix of director's popularity, and talent.

10. Peter Jackson
Known for: The Lord of the Rings trilogy
Though he did make movies in the 90's, his contribution to epic fantasy films alone merits his place on this list. The Lord of the Rings trilogy was a massive undertaking and a commercial smash. Bringing together hobbits, elves, wizards, dwarfs, and more with critics and fanatics. Jackson's epic adventure King Kong also won Oscars, but it's The Hobbit's box office triumph that cemented his place in pop culture.

9. Ang Lee
Known for: Brokeback Mountain, Life of Pi
This Taiwanese-American's work is so diverse, you don't always expect what he's going to do next. He's broken the laws of gravity, has had us see green in the Hulk, and has broken our hearts. Lee even managed the technically impossible by turning Life of Pi into a movie. What's remarkable is he's the first Asian to with the best director Oscar, Golden Globe, and BAFTA award.

8. David Fincher
Known for: Se7en, Fight Club, The Social Network, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
After the dark-styled Se7en, Fincher made Fight Club one of the most talked about films of the year despite disappointing box office numbers, and extreme violence. He then kept tensions high and brought to life the fantastic tale of a man who ages in reverse. Thanks to his visually exhilarating work and masterful storytelling, Fincher also thrilled us with an Oscar winning drama and mystery.

7. Christopher Nolan
Known for: Batman Begins, The Dark Night, Inception, The Dark Night Rises
Known for his neo-noir inspired style, modern look and dark themes, Nolan first played with our minds in psychological thrillers. However, audiences really took notice of the British filmmaker with his gritty Batman reboot which recharged the superhero and paved the way for one of the genre's finest. He's since the mesmerized us, turned dreams into reality, brought the dark knight out of retirement to the delight of the fans.

6. James Cameron
Known for: Alien, The Terminator, Terminator 2: Judgement Day, Titanic, Avatar
After establishing himself in the science fiction and action genres in the 80's, Cameron invaded pop culture with Terminator 2. However, it was his 1997 epic romantic disaster film that crowned him king of the world. Titanic won 11 Oscars and was the highest grossing movie ever. Over a decade later, Cameron broke that record with the groundbreaking 3D and computer generated movie Avatar.

5. Joel & Ethan Coen
Known for: Fargo, The Big Lebowski, No Country For Old Men, True Grit (2010)
The Coen brothers aren't just directors, they're also writers and producers. These brothers are well known for letting their wit and cleverness shine through; which sometimes leads to dark and twisted results. Weather it's an Oscar winning crime film like Fargo, a cult hit like The Big Lebowski, or a satirical comedy, While they've excelled especially in western inspired films, their black comedies have also been critically recognized. The Coens prove that two directors are better than one; they just need to work on their endings.

4. Clint Eastwood
Known for: Unforgiven, Million Dollar Baby, Letters From Iwo Jima, Gran Torino
He'll probably always be famous for his acting, but Eastwood's films excel in the same way when he's behind the camera. He's been directing films since the 70's, but came into his own during the last few decades winning best picture and director Oscars for Unforgiven, and Million Dollar Baby. His simple yet effective directing style has allowed him to explore many different genres and garner multiple accolades in recent years.

3. Quentin Tarantino
Known for: Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill, Inglourious Basterds, Django Unchained
Tarantino introduced us to the stylized violence, pop culture heavy references, and excessive cursing we've come to love and expect with his directorial debut: Reservoir Dogs. The director then planted the seeds for the growth of non-linear films with Pulp Fiction. With Kill Bill, he continued to showcase his pension for different movie genres and has since managed two of his most highest grossing films to date.

2. Martin Scorcese
Known for: Taxi Driver, Goodfellas, The Departed, The Wolf of Wall Street
Inspired by his Italian background and Roman Catholic upbringing, Scorcese crafted some of cinema's greatest. Also known for featuring themes of violence and crime, Scorcese found further success in the 90's with Goodfellas. After pushing his actors to use their dramatic acting abilities , he won his first best director Oscar for The Departed. He continues to produce critically acclaimed work today.

Honorable Mentions:

J.J. Abrams

Wes Anderson

Darren Aronofsky

Ron Howard

Gus Van Stant

Oliver Stone

1. Steven Spielberg
Known for: Jaws, E.T, Jurassic Park, Schindler's List, Saving Private Ryan, Lincoln
After setting the bar for the modern blockbuster in the 70's and 80's, Spielberg set box office record in the 90's. He also received critical and commercial acclaim after taking a more mature turn with epics like Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan. Though he's been criticized for being too sappy, he continues to collect awards in the 21st century, has become a household name, and remains one of Hollywood's most recognizable and influential directors.

Top 10 Stanley Kubrick Films

He always brought originality to his art. Welcome to Kiker's blog, and today I'm listing my top 10 favorite Stanley Kubrick films.

10. Lolita (1962)
While many of Kubrick's films are book adaptations, Vladimir Nabokov's Lolita is one challenging story to bring from page to screen. Why? That pesky little detail about the middle aged man falling for a young girl and marrying her mother to get near her. By increasing Lolita's age ever so slightly, and employing a storytelling technique where in the end falls at the beginning, Kubrick attempted to lessen the controversy, and heighten the interest.

9. Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
This was Kubrick's final film before his death, and he considered it his greatest contribution to the art of cinema. In this erotic story of sex, relationships, and the occult, Kubrick demonstrates his perfectionism by taking taking control of each of the film's visual aspects. From props and wall color, to gorgeous masks. Employing a shooting style that underlines the bizarre story line, Kubrick's choices are purposeful, intense, and stunning.

8.Paths of Glory (1957)
An example of Kubrick's earlier work, this is one of the few war movies that doesn't glorify violence. Honest, short, and bleak, it adapts the story of French soldiers who are sacrificed to set an example, and assure the motivation of their fellow officers. With hard-hitting sentiment, trademark visual beauty, and realism, this film also features the emotionally raw performances from actors recruited by Kubrick himself.

7. Spartacus (1960)
Kubrick re-teamed with the legendary Kirk Douglas to create this award-winning historical drama. Though the director was unable to retain the same level of creative control he was accustomed to, Spartacus still proved to be a powerful film. with spectacular acting and action sequences. Also notable for its communist connections and its parallels to the American Civil Rights Movement, this epic features a climax scene that's been copied and quoted on multiple occasions.

6. Barry Lyndon (1975)
Like most of his films, this Kubrick period piece broke cinematic ground with new techniques. In this case he made the unusual move to use only candles to light some scenes. Labeled by Roger Ebert as one of the most beautiful films ever made, it follows the story of a fictitious 18th century Irish social climber. A Kubrick vehicle in every sense, it's detached, beautiful, and a technical marvel.

5. The Shining (1980)
While avid Steven King fans may have been left unsatisfied, this Kubrick adaptation is now considered one of the great horror films. With a spooky Jack Nicholson performance as its anchor, it tracks a recovering alcoholic writer's downward spiral as he spends the winter held up in a haunted hotel. With shot after beautifully composed shot complimented by Kubrick's iconic first use of SteadyCam, The Shining racks up the scares psychologically, and to great effect.

4. Full Metal Jacket (1987)
Produced, directed, and co-written by Kubrick, this film peppers comedy in the mist of The Vietnam War's drama and violence. Experimental in form, it's first section follows Marine training, and traces the descend into madness of one Private because of a severe Drill Instructor. Some say the film loses stature by changing settings in the second half. However, it's just quirky enough to be a Kubrick favorite.

3. Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)
With lots of help from Peter Sellers, Kubrick highlights the Nuclear Arms Race in yet another anti-war film. However, this one is considered one of the funniest political satires of the 20th century. This movie is elevated by stellar performances, which Kubrick inspired using dubious methods, including sometimes angering actors or saying the take was a rehearsal.

2. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Sometimes overlooked because of its complexity, this film explores artificial intelligence, evolution, and space travel through a contemplative look at the human experience. It initially received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. However, it later won an Oscar for special effects, and was labeled his generation's bang by Steven Spielberg. Kubrick's groundbreaking efforts and stunning cinematography eventually inspired countless future Science Fiction films as the very definition of awesome.

Here are a few Honorable Mentions:

The Killing (1956)

Fear and Desire (1953)

Killer's Kiss (1955)

1. A Clockwork Orange
Bring on the ultra violence. This story of Alex, his droogs, and their dystopian future has  become a true cult classic thanks to Kubrick's thoroughness. By shooting and re-shooting pivotal scenes, playing with fast and slow motion, using a hand-held camera for most of the shoot, and even throwing his camera out the window, Kubrick brought viewers into this violent world. He also garnered controversy for his efforts.

Agree?

Vatican City Explained

Vatican City: capital of the Catholic church, home to the Pope, owner of an impressive collection of art and history all within the border of the world's smallest country conveniently circumnavigateable on foot in only 40 minutes. So how did the world end up with this tiny nation? The short answer is because: Mussolini and the long answer is very fiendishly complicated so here's a simplified medium* version.

The Popes used rule a nation called the Papal States which covered most of modern-day Italy. It was during this thousand year plus year reign that the Popes constructed St. Peter's Basilica the largest church in the world, and also build a wall around the base of a hill known as Vatican upon which St. Peter stood. The neighboring country known as the Kingdom of Italy thought Rome would make an awesome capital for its country, and so conquered the Papal States. While his nation was being destroyed, the Pope hid behind the walls of Vatican and conflictingly refused to acknowledge that the Kingdom of Italy existed while simultaneously complaining about being a prisoner of the Kingdom of Italy which according to him didn't exist. Rather than risk religious civil war by getting rid of the Pope, the Kingdom of Italy decided to wait him out assuming he'd eventually give up. However, 5 Popes and 60 years later nothing had changed. Which now brings us to Benito Mussolini the then Prime Minister of Italy. He was tired of listening to the Pope complain to Italian Catholics about his self-imposed imprisonment, so Mussolini thought he could score some political points by striking a deal. It went something like this: 1. Italy gave the land of Vatican to the Pope, and 2. Italy gave the Pope a bunch of apology money. In return the pope acknowledged that Italy existed, and the Pope promised to remain neutral in politics and war. Just in case Mussolini decides to side with Hitler; which he did. The deal was signed and Vatican City was born.

Today the tiny nation on a hill has all the things you'd expect of a country. It has its own government that makes its own laws that are enforced by its own police that puts people who break them in its own jail. It also has its own bank, prints its own stamps, and issues its own license plates (though only its citizens can drive within its borders (primarily because of the terrible, terrible parking)), and as the true mark of any self-respecting nation its own top-level domain: .va. Despite these aspects, Vatican City isn't like any other country.

Hold on to your papal hat because it's about to get weird.

To really understand the Vatican there are 2 people and 2 things you need to know: the famous Pope, the incredibly confusing Holy See, the country of Vatican City, and the almost completely unknown King of Vatican City.

But first, the Pope who gets a throne to sit upon and from which he acts as the Bishop for all Catholics in Rome. All bishops in the Catholic Church have thrones, but because the Bishop of Rome is also the Pope his throne is special and has its own special name: The Holy See. Every time a Pope dies or retires there is a sort of game of thrones to see which of the bishops get to occupy the Holy See. While Popes come and go, the throne is eternal. As such the name Holy See not only refers to the throne, but also all the rules that make the Catholic Church the Catholic Church. When Mussolini crafted the treaty he actually gave the land of Vatican to the Holy See. Believe it or not the Holy See is a legal corporate person in international law. Basically every time you hear Holy See think Catholic Church, Inc of which the Pope is the CEO.

Now back to the King. The King of Vatican City has absolute unchecked power within the country's borders. His presence makes Vatican City one of only six remaining absolute monarchies left in the world including: Brunei, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Swaziland. The King's absolute power is why Vatican City can't join the European Union because only democracies are allowed. Though Vatican City does have a legislative branch of government staffed by cardinals appointed by the Pope, the king can overrule their decisions at any time for any reason. So why do you never hear about the King of Vatican City? Because though king and Pope are two different roles, they just so happen to be occupied by the same person at the same time. It has the funny consequence that because the Pope is elected and the king is all powerful, but they're the same guy, It makes Vatican City the world's only Elected Non-Hereditary Absolute Monarchy. it's this dual role that makes untangling Vatican City so difficult because the Pope (depending on the situation) acts either as the king of the country of Vatican City, or the Pope of the Holy See.

Got it? No? Okay time for an analogy. Imagine if a powerful international company (say Kiker Industries) had a CEO who convinced the United States to give one of its islands to the company which then made the island into a new country. The country would be named Kikertropolis and would have an absolute monarchy as its government and a law that made the king by definition the CEO of the company. It's pretty obvious at this point that the CEO should move its corporate headquarters to the new nation so that the laws of the country can benefit the company and the company's global reach can benefit the country. As for the man in the middle, sometimes it's good to be the CEO and sometimes it's good to be the king.

That is essentially Vatican City, but if you're still confused don't worry. Even other countries can't keep it straight. For example the United Nations has the Holy See as a member, but not Vatican City the actual country. The Holy see also gives passports to its citizens that other countries accept even though the passports come from a company, not a country.

Speaking of Vatican City citizens, they are perhaps the strangest consequence of the Pope's dual role as a religious leader and monarch. While other countries admit new citizens with the ever so popular process of human reproduction, Vatican City does not. No one in Vatican City is born a citizen. The only way to become a citizen is for the king to appoint you as one. The king only appoints you as citizen if you work for the Pope who is also the king. Because the king is all powerful, your citizenship is at his whim. If you quit your job for the Pope, the king (who is also the Pope) will revoke your citizenship. These rules mean that Vatican City doesn't have a real permanent population to speak of . There are about 500 citizens; which is fewer people than my high school graduating class. All citizens work for the Pope as either cardinals, or diplomats, or Swiss Guards, or other Catholic related jobs.

So it's best to think of Vatican City as a sovereign corporate headquarters that grants temporary citizenship to its managers rather than a real city state like Singapore which has a self reproducing population of citizens that engage in a variety of economic activity; both of which Vatican City lacks.

But in the end the reason the world cares about Vatican City is not because of the citizens within its walls, but because of the billion members of its church outside of those walls.

Top 10 Frontmen in Heavy Metal and Hard Rock

Metal wouldn't be the same without them. Welcome to Kiker's Blog and today I'm listing my top 10 frontmen in heavy metal and hard rock. For this list I based my picks based on their stage presence, songwriting abilities, popularity, and vocal chops.

10. Phil Anselmo-Pantera
Thanks to his intense vocals, Phil Anselmo replaced Terry Glaze as Pantera's frontman in the late 80's. He helped transform their glam metal sound into a heavier groove metal sound, and took the band to the top of the Billboard 200 chart with Far Beyond Driven. Known for his screeching whale, intense presence, and wild stage behavior; Anselmo also proved his leadership by staying with the band through several musical projects.

9. Dave Mustaine-Megadeath
Dave Mustaine overcame being fired from Metallica to form one of heavy metal's biggest bands. as Megadeath's vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist, Mustaine crafted complex instrumentals, memorable guitar solos, and volitile lyrics that turned the band into thrash metal's big four. Along with their multiple Grammy nominations, gold records, and massive international following, Mustaine also insured they didn't lose any of their speed or intensity in later years.

8. Rob Halford-Judas Priest
If you're looking for pure heavy metal, look no further than Judas Priest. In the 70's, these metal pioneers combined the double guitar style of K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton with Rob Halford's theatrical vocals to create a unique and heavy sound. With his four octave range and powerful screams, Halford's singing prowess is practically unparalleled. Add his songwriting abilities and his sense of style, and you've got one amazing frontman.

7. Joe Elliot-Def Leppard
After spearheading the new wave of British metal in the late 70's, Def Leppard set the bar for 80's hard rock with Joe Elliot leading the way. By setting his vocal harmonies in a blend of hard rock, glam metal, arena rock, and pop; Def Leppard solidified their place as one of the decade's most successful bands. The groups co-founder and key songwriter was also adapt and engaging in crowds, as demonstrated by their countless arena shows.

6. Ronnie James Dio-Dio/Black Sabbath/Rainbow
Weather he was fronting Black Sabbath, his own band, or various other projects, Ronnie James Dio really put his all into everything he did. In his 50+ years in music, he marked the genre with the unfeltering strength of his voice, and made metal horns a metal staple. Meanwhile, the major outpouring of sorrow that followed his death was a testament to his impact and influence to music in general.

5. Alice Cooper-Alice Cooper
Since Alice Cooper is technically the name of the artist and the band he fronts, I'm putting the godfather of shock rock on my list. Inspired by horror imagery, he crafted elaborate stage shows laid out with execution devices, fake blood, and reptiles. He then up-ed the shock factor by dressing up to match. His heavy metal sound and showmanship have also set the stage for many shock rockers thereafter.

4. James Hetfield-Metallica
He's not only a co-founder, but also the main songwriter, lead vocalist, and rhythm guitarist of one of heavy metal's most successful bands. By helping to craft Metallica's early, fast-paced, and aggressive complex compositions, Hetfield positioned the band as one of thrash metal's big four. With his recognizable roar, and their technically astounding performances, he led Metallica to mainstream success and turned them into leaders of the genre.

3. Bruce Dickinson-Iron Maiden
Bruce Dickinson wowed us with a range that reached opporatic proportions. He didn't only seemelessly meld his showmanship with Iron Maiden's theatrical live shows, but also helped give the band their first UK chart topper with The Number of the Beast. While he would've ranked higher if he had a bigger songwriting role, it can't be denied he helped spearhead the new wave of British metal.

2. Bon Scott-AC/DC
Though the later success AC/DC had with Brian Johnson would give him a spot in the top 10, it's the Scottish-born Australian Bon Scott that's got the edge in my eyes. Thanks to his lude lyrics and on stage charisma, Scott helped the band earn popularity in their hometown and then around the world. It's little wonder that Whole Lotta Rosie and Highway To Hell remain some of AC/DC's greatest work.

Here are a few Honorable Mentions:

David Coverdale-Whitesnake

Brian Johnson-AC/DC

Lemmy Kilmister-Motorhead

M. Shadows-Avenged Sevenfold

Cory Taylor-Slipknot

1. Ozzy Osbourne-Black Sabbath
With Black Sabbath, the prince of darkness set set the blueprint for heavy metal and countless sub-genres. Alongside Tony Iomi's big bad riffs, Ozzy's signature vocals made for and original, dark, and heavy blues rock sound. However, it was after leaving that Ozzy took his stage antics to the next level as his shocking theatrics kept him the center of attention, and increased his appeal and success.

Agree?

Top 10 Trio Bands

When it comes to music, two is a company, but three is a crowd. Welcome to Kiker's blog and today I'm listing my top 10 trio bands in rock. For this list I chose groups that were most famously known as a 3-piece for most of their defining years on the rock scene.

10. Motörhead
Ian "Lemmy" Kilmister-bass guitar, lead vocals
Phil "Wizzö" Campbell-guitar, backing vocals
Mikkey Dee-drums
Although his lyrics are inaudible at times, there's no doubt Ian Kilmister was born to rock. What really makes Motörhead great is is how they can briefly pause in a song to spit out lyrics, and kick straight back into it with a medley of riffing, heavy bass, and drum loops. Why just three in the band? Because that's all they need.

9. Emerson, Lake and Palmer
Keith Emerson-keyboards
Greg Lake-bass, guitar, vocals
Carl Palmer-drums
Looking for atmospheric progressive rock with a hint of jazz fusion and symphonic elements? Then Emerson, Lake and Palmer are your guys! Along with their use of drums, bass and guitar, this trio added keyboards and percussion to create a sound full of interludes and instrumental delights. While Keith Emerson, Greg Lake, and Carl Palmer are known for making their instruments the stars of their tracks, they also have a unique ability to include quotable lyrics from time to time.  

8. ZZ Top
Billy Gibbons-guitar, lead vocals
Dusty Hill-bass guitar, backing vocals
Frank Beard-drums
This bearded trio is as famous for its country and blues rock riffs as it is for its members funky attire, red Eliminator Coupe, and admiration for the female form. With expert instrumental ability on all platforms, the members of ZZ Top add in memorable chord progressions to their songs. In the songs Gimme All Your Lovin' and Sharp Dressed Man we hear how effective the seductive vocals of Billy Gibbons can really be

7. Muse
Matthew Bellamy-guitar, vocals, keyboards, synthesizers, keytar
Christopher Wolstenholme-bass, backing vocals, keyboards, harmonica
Dominic Howard-drums, percussion
On your first listen you'd probably bet Muse's complex and layered sound would have to be produced by at least five band members. But thanks to Matthew Bellamy's catchy riffs, Christopher Wolstenholme's bass and keyboard work, and Dominic Howard's unique percussion interludes, Muse proves they can deliver a totally surreal feel with only three talented musicians. In addition to their mix of alternative rock, progressive, and symphonic rock, Muse has also showcased incredible storytelling abilities.

6. The Police
Sting-bass, lead vocals, keyboards
Stewart Copeland-drums and percussion, backing vocals, keyboards
Andy Summers-guitars, backing vocals, keyboards
With their fusion of rock, new wave, post-punk, and reggae rock, the police crafted an intoxicating sound that some would call hypnotic. Although many of their songs were simply structured, it's this very framework that made each of them so recognizable and unforgettable. In the process, Sting's soulful voice added to the band's mellow feel and helped them sell over 75 million albums worldwide.

5. Green Day
Billie Joe Armstrong-guitar, lead vocals
Mike Dirnt-bass, backing vocals
Tre Cool-drums
This band's aura is perfectly incapsulated in their music videos. They're loud, rebellious, and animated. By associating a classic three chord formula, Green Day insured their punk songs had a familiar and catchy feel that just makes you want to want to sing along. By expanding their sound to include elements of pop and alternative rock, the band is still going strong today.

4. Nirvana
Kurt Cobain-guitar, vocals
Krist Novoselic-bass guitar
Dave Grohl-drums
This band brought grunge and garage music into the limelight. With the legendary Kurt Cobain on vocals, we witnessed an expressing, struggling and sometimes disturbed mind turn his creativity into musical gold. Throw in Dave Grohl's catchy drum patterns and Krist Novoselic's talented bass riffs, and you get pure musical nirvana. The commercial success of their second album Nevermind didn't only make them one of the hottest bands of the 90's, but in alternative rock as well.

3. The Jimmi Hendrix Experience
Jimmi Hendrix-guitar, lead vocals
Noel Redding-bass, backing vocals
Mitch Mitchell-drums
Does this legendary rock band really need an  introduction? Fronted by the late Jimmi Hendrix, the trio gave us some of the most influential tracks ever. Case in point: Purple Haze and its mixture of psychedelic, acid rock, and heavy metal. Although the ensemble is brilliant as a whole, it's Jimmi's skills and outrageous antics on the guitar that really made them stand out.


2. Cream
Jack Bruce-bass, lead vocals
Eric Clapton-guitar, backing vocals
Ginger Baker-drums
With the ability to jump from one electrifying instrument to another, Cream played a massive part in the development of riff-based blues rock songs. Made of guitar extraordinaire Eric Clapton, bassist/singer Jack Bruce, and drummer Ginger Baker, the power trio's incredible sound can almost numb your mind when you listen to it. With masterfully executed tracks like Sunshine of Your Love, Cream gave us some of the essential classic rock songs of all time.

Here are a few Honorable Mentions:

Blink-182

Primus

Sublime

Them Crooked Vultures

Thousand Foot Krutch 

1. Rush
Geddy Lee-Bass guitar, lead vocals, keyboards
Alex Lifeson-Guitar, backing vocals
Neil Peart-Drums
Progressive rock, hard rock, or heavy metal; it's not east to categorize Rush, but that doesn't really matter.With Geddy Lee's unique vocals and bass playing, this Canadian rock band is instantly recognizable. By throwing space aged riffs into songs like Tom Sawyer, Rush showed they were well ahead of their time. Add Alex Lifeson's guitar, and Neil Peart's drums and you've got one of music's most technically proficient bands and the ultimate power trio.

Agree? What's your favorite rock trio?

Top 10 Groups of Friends on TV

What you watch on TV says a lot about you, and often times, the company you keep. Welcome to Kiker's blog, and today I'm listing my top 10 groups of friends on TV. For this list, I'm looking for groups of three or more friends that have had ridiculous amounts of adventure, and mischief. Where they hang out, running gags, and inside jokes play a big part. I'm omitting shows that have comedy troupes as their main characters.

10. Jess, Nick, Schmidt, Cece, Winston-New Girl
They're four roommates, and one best friend/girlfriend, that all have different lives, different jobs, and different financial statuses. Even if one feels upset, the others can find a unique way to cheer the other one up. Even though there's a girl living with three guys, there are no boundaries in this loft. Whether you'd be bro-ing out with Nick, Schmidt and Winston or bonding over bangs with Jess and Cece, your charm and wit would fit perfectly in this group. The more roommates, the better, right?

9. Peter, Quagmire, Joe, Cleveland-Family Guy
It's awesome that these four best friends all live near each other. Though they mostly spend their time in their favorite booth at The Drunken Clam, these four middle-aged friends spend their time doing things that can only be done in a cartoon. Weather it's doing something normal like playing golf or going on a road trip, or something outrageous like reenacting stunts from Jackass, they always know how to make us laugh.

8. Leonard, Sheldon, Penny, Howard, Raj-The Big Band Theory
Even the Scientific Method can't predict what this gang could do. They're four brilliant young men that work at a university, and a community college dropout that works at the cheesecake factory. With no minimum IQ requirement, a diverse range of careers, and a dynamic made more hilarious by gender diversity, being in this group would be easy and fun as long as you don't mind the walk upstairs.

7. Ted, Marshall, Barney, Lily, Robin-How I Met Your Mother
Pull up a chair at the booth and join these young adults for a drink at MacLaren's. They all really know how to live the New York City nightlife. There's a married couple, a real ladies man, a single guy who's up for anything, and an unpredictable Canadian. With running gags, inside jokes, and an interesting history, who wouldn't want to join this New York gang? Besides, who doesn't love a good New York adventure?

6. Charlie, Mac, Dennis, Frank, Dee-It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia
It's awesome that these friends own and work in a bar. There's the bartender (Dee), the self-proclaimed bosses (Dennis and Frank), the janitor (Charlie), and the self-proclaimed bouncer (Mac). Though they're better described as the looks (Dennis), the brains (Mac), the wild card (Charlie), the muscle (Frank), and the stupid chick (Dee). They tried out for the Philadelphia Eagles, started their own cable show, made money by picking up trash, bought and destroyed a boat, invented their own board game, and even put on a musical. They may not have earned the top spot on this list, but they've earned the title of Craziest Group of Friends.

5. Zach, Kelly, Slater, Jessie, Screech, Lisa-Saved By The Bell
They were the friends we all wished we went to school with. Between 10 minute passing periods, musical numbers at their favorite diner, or having fun on the beach, these friends made the absolute most of their high school days. Kids today would be surprised that they could hang out and have fun before cell phones were invented, but it just proves that the early 90's were just a simpler time. It's also a plus that they're all friends with their principal.

4. Stan, Cartman, Kenny, Kyle-South Park
If I hung out with these foulmouthed kids in 4th grade, I would have been in so much trouble. These kids constantly get into trouble and drag other kids along with them. All of them come from different households: Kyle's family is Jewish and his brother is an adopted Canadian, Cartman's mom is a transgender whore who spoils him, Kenny's family is the poorest in all of South Park, and Stan's personality is different from his normal family. They play video games, wait for the bus, laugh at Canadians farting on each other, witness their friend's death on an almost regular basis, and look to their school chef for advice. What's different about this group is they don't always agree on anything unanimously, but the majority decision always ensues.

3. Joey, Ross, Chandler, Rachel, Monica, Phoebe-Friends
The title of the show says it all. Applauded as the first true ensemble sitcom, these friends set the standard for young single friends everywhere. The group often hangs out at the Manhattan coffee house Central Perk; when not there, the six are usually at Monica and Rachel's nearby West Village nearby apartment, or Joey and Chandler's across the hall. Episodes typically depict the friends' comedic romantic adventures and career issues, as well as the friends having many dates and serious relationships. Even ten years after the show ended, the six actors still remain best friends off the screen. These friends made this show one of the most watched ever.

2. Dorothy, Rose, Blanch, Sophia-The Golden Girls
The Golden Girls were without a doubt one of a kind. Four older women living together that were completely different from one another in a lot of ways. There's Dorothy with a troubled history and extended family, the peculiar story-telling Rose, Blanch the southern belle, and Sophia who's the oldest, but youngest at heart. Like all friends, when one's upset the group is always there to cheer them up. This quartet of actresses created the finest core of performers to ever star in a television series.

Here are a few Honorable Mentions:

Ricky, Julian, Bubbles-Trailer Park Boys

Fred, Daphney, Velma, Shaggy, Scooby-Scooby Doo

Daniel, Kim, Nick, Ken (Freaks); Neal, Bill (Geeks)-Freaks and Geeks

Dawson, Jen, Joey, Pacey-Dawson's Creek

And here are a couple of Dishonorable Mentions:

The entire cast-Glee

Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha, Miranda-Sex and the City

1. Jerry, George, Elaine, Kramer-Seinfeld
This crew was the center point of the iconic show about nothing. Spending most of their time at their favorite restaurant and popping into Jerry's apartment, these young-at-heart adults planted their footprints all over New York City. Professionally they were different: Jerry was a comedian, George was George Steinbrenner's right hand man, Elaine was an assistant for three different people, and Kramer had no legitimate source of income. Along the way they included boy/girlfriends, their parents, and a few enemies in their adventures. Having another man in the crew would've made Elaine more awesome, but another lady might have balanced some of the gents' nonsense. Either way, anyone would've loved to be a part of the hilarity that is Jerry Seinfeld's half-fictionalized life.

Agree with me? For more entries follow me on Twitter @nygiant1994 or follow my blog right here on Google+.

Top 10 Cartoon Dads

Some we wish were our dad, some we don't. Welcome to Kiker's blog and today I'm listing my top 10 cartoon dads from TV.

10. Bob Belcher-Bob's Burgers
He may actually be the most normal, stable cartoon dad on this list. The long-suffering owner of Bob's Burgers, Bob does his best, or at the very least makes an effort when it comes to running his family. He gets very little respect from his kids and customers, but can always count on some comfort from his loyal and loving wife Linda.

9. Papa Smurf-The Smurfs
Over 500 years young, Papa Smurf is always there to lend a helping hand, or to dispense much needed advice to the Smurf population. To ensure his blue friends live in peace, big papa always uses a little touch of magic. Even with the difficult responsibility of running a village full of bumbling Smurfs, this wise elder doesn't abuse his responsibility as patriarch. That makes him one of the most devoted cartoon dads.

8. Sir Nigel Archibald Thornberry-The Wild Thornberrys
Certainly one of the coolest cartoon dads, Nigel is a traveling wildlife documentarian who brought his family along for the adventure. Completely oblivious only in the way dads can be, Nigel doesn't seen to realize that his daughter has the ability to talk to animals. Nonetheless, he proves to be a caring and attentive father when the occasion arises, and a charming oddball even in the face of danger.

7. Stan Smith-American Dad
Perhaps not the likeliest person to win father of the year, Stan is highly focused on his career with the CIA. With two kids that don't particularly respect him, and an adopted alien who has nothing but contempt for him, Stan is a good old fashioned Republican patriarch who sees his family as an occasional annoyance. Impulsive, manly, and radical as they come, Stan Smith is the embodiment of the American Dream.

6. George Jetson-The Jetsons
His world may have flying cars and household robots, but that doesn't solve George Jetson's problems with fatherhood, and bringing home the bacon. With a son that's up to all kinds of mischief, and a teenage daughter who attracts the attention of all kinds of boys, George's patience is often pushed to a breaking point. When all is said and done, he's still a loving cartoon dad.

5. Randy Marsh-South Park
Well-meaning, but sometimes ignorant, Randy Marsh is a relatively devoted father to Stan and Shelly. While his drinking occasionally gets him into trouble, Randy's Phd in geology means he's often asked to solve situations he knows nothing about. Like stopping a volcanic eruption, or burrowing through legions of hippies. Weather he's teaching Stan about puberty, or taking an active interest in his hobbies, Randy still finds time to bond with his son.

4. Hank Hill-King of the Hill
Clean-cut, straight-laced, and with an unnatural interest in propane, Hank is a caring father. Out of touch with his teenage son and the world in general, Hank's just trying to reconcile his good old-fashioned values with an increasingly modern society. He may not see eye-to-eye with his sensitive son, Hank is still a patient and devoted father, and less of a loudmouth than other cartoon dads.

3. Peter Griffin-Family Guy
As stupid as he is reckless, the patriarch of the Griffin family puts his family in harm's way at an almost daily rate. Barely kept in check with his forgiving wife, and often proven wrong by his own dog, Peter has no attention span to speak of, and is pretty brutal in his treatment of his daughter Meg. Even for all his faults, Peter still manages to connect with his kids, just don't ask him for advice.

2. Fred Flinstone-The Flinstones
Setting the standard for cartoon dads everywhere, Fred was a bumbling husband and clueless father before it was cool. Although he's loud, easily aggravated, and always trying to make a quick buck, Fred is friendly and will do almost anything for his wife and daughter. By working a full-time job to provide for his loving family while also trying to keep his wife happy, Fred is prehistory's finest definition of a devoted dad.

Here are a few Honorable Mentions:
Professor Utonium-The Powerpuff Girls

Drake Mallard-Darkwing Duck

Ned Flanders-The Simpsons

1. Homer Simpson-The Simpsons
Homer is equal parts awkward idiot and dedicated dad. He may be a heavy drinker, a veracious gluten, and an all-around lazy person, Homer is always there for his kids and ready to help in any way he can, even though he's not the brightest crayon in the box. Though he often strangles his son, and sometimes ignores his daughter's skills, Homer is definitely the most famous cartoon dad ever.

Agree?

Top 10 TV Dads

These are the men who raised us from the comfort of the boob tube. Welcome to Kiker's Blog, and today I'm counting down my top 10 TV dads of all time. For this list, I'm looking at dads that were a pleasure to watch, and that were good to their respective TV families. I'm omitting cartoon dads because that's a list for another day. If you're looking for the best TV grandpas, check out my list for the top 10 TV grandpas. Special thanks to my good friend Koby Earle for suggesting this list.

10. Archie Bunker-All in the Family
Archie was one of history's top TV characters. Thanks to his opinionated and ignorant mindset, racial stereotypes, and cigar smoking. As a dad, Archie was tough when it counted. You'd be annoyed too if your liberal daughter and son-in-law disagreed with you that often. Ultimately, Archie was a softie, and and he kept a special place in his heart for the people who mattered.

9. Fred G. Sanford-Sanford and Son
We loves Archie for his flaws, and it was the same for Fred Sanford. This old fool lived with his aging big dummy of a son after his wife Elizabeth passed away. Lamonte stuck around to make sure his drunken dad didn't get into too much trouble with one of his get rich quick schemes. Fred might have been a sarcastic, hot-tempered old man, but him and his son shared a close connection.

8. Dr. Jason Seaver-Growing Pains
Taking cues from The Cosby Show, psychiatrist Dr. Jason Seaver set up shop at home so he could do his fair share of the child-rearing while Maggie worked as a journalist. He spent time with the kids, each of whom was a handful in their own way, and guided them all in their intrapersonal problems while cleverly dodging chores.

7. Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable-The Cosby Show
This groundbreaking sitcom introduced a black family that was both affluent and functional. Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable was the head of this traditional family, and the show revolved around Cosby's sense of humor. Fortunately for the Huxtable family, Heathcliff's pediatric practice was at home, so he had plenty of time to advise, and lecture his kids. Kudos to the Cosby sweaters.

6. Al Bundy-Married...with Children
Al represented every father who's dreams were dashed when he had a family. Also, every father who sits on the couch with his hand in his pants. He was chained to a money hungry wife who refused to cook and clean, and their two hormone driven kids. Yes he hated life, but the Bundy family was a surprisingly tight-knit bunch.

5. Frank Reynolds-It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Frank is the estranged father of Dennis and Dee Reynolds. He showed up unexpectedly to spend more time with his grown up kids, and because he gave up on the multi-million dollar company he started. Although Dennis and Dee still hate the fact that he wasn't there for most of their lives, Mac and Charlie see him as a father figure because their dads aren't around. Whenever he's not running the bar, dropping acid, banging whores, or stirring up some kind of commotion with the gang, Frank never forgets he's the most important living figure in Dennis' and Dee's lives.

4. Tim Taylor-Home Improvement
Tim "The Tool Man" Taylor had his own handyman show, signature sound, sidekick, hidden neighbor, loving wife, and three boys. While he made a lot of mistakes, and I mean a lot of mistakes, he was always able to learn from them with a little help. For every hot rod he build, or injury he sustained, Tim learned a valuable life lesson that he passed on to his kids.

3. Sheriff Andy Taylor-The Andy Griffith Show
He is widowed, and is the father to one young son, Opie. Andy was depicted as a country-smart sheriff and a caring, nurturing father. His laid-back approach to law enforcement made him an ideal sheriff for a sleepy North Carolina town. Mayberry saw little crime, with the exception of moonshining. As a single father, Andy spent time fishing with his son, and also spends evenings with him strumming the guitar.

2. Red Forman-That 70's Show
Most dads put on their tough guy act, but not this tough-as-nails war veteran. Sure he loved his wife Kitty, and treated his daughter like a princess, but Eric never got any of the affection. Instead, he got the constant threat of foot up his ass. Red had a short fuse, was insensitive, strict, and pretty much hated everyone, especially his neighbor Bob.

Here are a few Honorable Mentions:

Hal-Malcolm in the Middle

Raymond "Ray" Barone-Everybody Loves Raymond

George Lopez-George Lopez

Phil Dunphy-Modern Family

1. Frank Costanza-Seinfeld
George's father wore his emotions on his sleeves, and used shouting as his preferred method of communication. This former Army cook was fluent in Korean, and was vocal about removing his shoes in other people's homes. Frank was quite the inventor with the "manzire" credited to him, he also had a unique way of lowering his blood pressure. I'm still not convinced that works. SERENITY NOW!

Agree? Want more? Suggest future lists by tweeting @nygiant1994 and always come back for more.

Top 10 TV Neighbors

They're there when you need them, even if you wish they weren't. Welcome to Kiker's blog, and today I'm counting down my top 10 best TV neighbors of all time. For this list, I'm looking at those TV neighbors who stood out for their quirkiness, their sage advice, or simply because they were always there. It's hard to imagine getting close to the people living adjacent to you, but on TV it's strange if you don't know your neighbor(s) on a personal level.

10. Glenn Quagmire-Family Guy
It's pretty cool that Peter's best friends all live near him, and Quagmire is no exception. Having Quagmire as your friend and neighbor means you might be subjective to some off his more interesting habits: like going through your trash in search of you wife's toenail clippings. Knowing you live next to a sexual deviant means not being surprised when he comes to the door in a bib and bonnet.

9. Ed & Trixie Norton-The Honneymooners
They're not just the upstairs neighbors, they're the best friends of the show's main characters. Lovable but simple Ed, and pushy Trixie are a couple that run somewhat counter to Ralph's bluster, and Alice's even temper. The dynamic between the two couples, and the friendships developed between them are part of what made this short-lived show iconic.

8. Penny-The Big Bang Theory
It may have been initially easy to dismiss Penny's character as another ditsy blonde waitress, but she's a great testament to the fact that technical knowledge isn't all there is to life. She might not be as well educated as her braniac neighbors, but she's socially adapt, and provides them with much needed balance. It also doesn't hurt that she ends up dating Leonard, since we all know that dating a neighbor is always a smart move.

7. Rhoda Morgenstern-The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Witty, sarcastic, and self-deprecating, she's the gal pal that most single ladies (and single fellas) wish they could have around. As Mary's upstairs neighbor, she's never too far away from some girl time. That is until she falls in love and moves away to New York. But even then, Rosa was such a good friend to Mary, she actually got her own spin-off.

6. Mr. George Feeny-Boy Meets World
I can't think of anyone who'd want to live next door to their teacher, unless of course if you're going to spy on their movements, or trying to swipe some test scores. However, things are different when it comes to teacher turned principal turned college professor Mr. Feeny. While some of us may have grown up with teachers who played important roles in our lives, it's still difficult to imagine living next door to them. It's like breaking the fourth wall or something.

5. Barney Rubble-The Flinstones
Simple, affable, and easy-going, Barney was the perfect foil to Fred's boisterous personality. He was also a pretty reliable neighbor, and a friend Fred could always go bowling with. It's a plus when your best friend lives next door, but it's a plus one when your wives become best friends as well. The relationship between the Flinstones and the neighboring Rubbles is one that has become iconic in pop culture, and has stood the test of time.

4. Steve Urkel-Family Matters
It's odd how many times he's invited himself over to the Winslow house. You'd think with big guy Carl Winslow being a police officer it'd have a more secure house, but clearly this was one nerdy neighbor that could not be stopped. He's a pest, but he's also a lovable nerd who's hopelessly in love with Laura Winslow. Ultimately, Urkel is grudgenly embraced as a recurring presence in the Winslow household for whatever reason in spite of his clutziness. It might be those glasses.

3. Wilson Wilson Jr.-Home Improvement
He was an excellent neighbor complete with worldly wisdom, and the kind of advice you could only give after you've traveled the globe. Interestingly enough, only half of his face could be seen. The Taylor family, and Tim in particular could pretty much always count on Wilson to privide them with sound guidance from behind a fence. He kept his distance, but always came through in the clutch, that's pretty much the ideal neighbor if I do say so myself.

2. Ned Flanders-The Simpsons
He's a mild-mannered religious zealot who is constantly put upon by the Simpson family, not that he minds. That isn't to say he doesn't have his own problems. With his wife's unexpected death, his extremely sheltered children, and his excessive religious posturing. Although initially disliked by Homer for a straight edge personality and a happy-go-lucky demeanor, Homer eventually warms up to Flanders with their relationship evolving over time.

Before I unveil my top pick, here are a few Honorable Mentions

Rose-Two and a Half Men

Patrick Star-Spongebob Squarepants

Bob Pinciotti-That 70's Show

Roger Addison-Mr. Ed

Kimmy Gibbler-Full House

1. Cosmo Kramer-Seinfeld
You could pretty much count on him for a couple of things: busting through Jerry's door, and not having a verifiable source of income. Although he's definitely prone to scheming, but somehow none of that stopped him from being one of Jerry's closest friends. It might be because living across the hall gave him constant access to Jerry's life, but but one has to wonder why no one locked their doors.

Agree?

Top 10 TV Grandpas of All Time

Some things just get better with age. Welcome to Kiker's blog, and today I'm counting down my top 10 TV grandpas of all time. For this list I looked at any grandfather figure on TV, live action or animated, that has clear interaction with his grandchildren for much of his time on screen.

10. Grandpa Philip-Hey Arnold!: When you're young, have a head shaped like a football, and your brain is not in the game, a wise old grandpa can really help you out. However, Arnold's grandpa Phil doesn't give the greatest advice. Also, he's a little silly, but his old heart is firmly in the right place. And if you don't think his grandson is the bees knees, well you're in trouble. He's Arnold's go to person for the highs and the lows, the rights and the wrongs, the birds and the bees. He's an old timer, and an all arounder.

9. Russell Huxtable-The Cosby Show: Russell and his wife Ana are the proud heads of a very diverse family. Their son is a specialist in all things pregnancy, their daughter-in-law is a lawyer, and they've got five grandchildren to contend with. Russel however maintains his composure and keep his cool through all of that. Plus he's a musical man, his jazzy background earned him the nickname "Slide", and he's a top 10 hit on our list.

8. Sam Dracula, Count of Transylvania-The Munsters: A grandfather is old by definition, but they aren't usually this old, or this inhuman. Count Sam Dracula was born in 1367, he's been married over 100 times, and he has his own laboratory in the basement of Munster mansion. However, with age does not come wisdom, and grandpa Munster's inventing is often more explosive than intended. I'll let him off though because he's a vampire.

7. Robert Jebediah Freeman-The Boondocks: As guardian of Huey and Riley Freeman, this grandpa really has his work cut out for him. He's an ex fighter pilot and a hardened Civil Rights campaigner. He's a tough task master, with his grandsons' interest at heart. There isn't much that gets past this grandpa, and there aren't many problems where corporal punishment isn't the answer. He may have once sat next to Rosa Parks, but on this list he takes center stage.

6. Tywin Lannister-Game of Thrones: For this guy, the family name is everything. Merciless and controlling, Tywin almost single handedly built up the Lannister reputation. And much of his family is in awe of him for doing so. That being said, the family is not problem free. He and his son Tyrion really do not get along. He's the richest man in the seven kingdoms, a war-reary face on wise old soldiers, and a top contender on this list of epic grandfathers.

5. Cotton Hill-King of the Hill: Colonel Cotton Hill was a patriotic war veteran, a rampant misogynist, and an occasional near-homicidal maniac. He loved his grandson Bobby more than he loved his actual son Hank. He also never got over losing his shins in World War II. He led an up-and-down life, but he's made it to the midpoint of my list because of his love for his grandchild. Hey, even resentful, abusive individuals have feelings too.

4. Jay Pritchett-Modern Family: He's the super glue that holds this sticky family together, just about. From the top of a very convoluted family tree, Jay Pritchett maintains tradition, and his dignity, while he's also able to modernize alongside the younger generations. There are some things, many things that occur on this TV show that the head of its table just can't comprehend, but he's a 21st century senior, and he's a lovable, laughable, legendary grandpa.

3. George Bluth Sr.-Arrested Development: Pop-pop as he's affectionately known by his grandchildren, is about as unlawful as a grandpa can be. In his hay day, he made millions selling real estate, but unfortunately Saddam Hussein was one of his best customers. The show follows Bluth Sr. through various stages of imprisonment, and depicts his sketchy family attachments, questionable religious conversions, and dodgy fashion statements. Despite all of this, he's added my bronze medal to the Bluth mantelpiece.

2. Abraham Simpson-The Simpsons: As far as TV grandpas are concerned, there are few that are as long serving, or loved as grandpa Simpson. Grandfather to Bart, Lisa, and Maggie, grandpa Simpson is the hard of hearing, always sleeping, often confused, but sometimes surprising senior patriarch of television's favorite cartoon family. He was married to a hippie, he was in the Army with Mr. Burns, and he had an affair with his son's wife's mother. It's been a colorful life for this yellow old timer.

Before I unveil my top pick, here are a few Honorable Mentions:

Zeb Walton-The Waltons

Mike Ehrmantraut-Breaking Bad

Zeek Braverman-Parenthood

Lou Pickles-Rugrats

Francis Griffin-Family Guy

1. Frank Barone-Everybody Loves Raymond: Holy crap! He's the granddaddy of them all! Everybody loves Raymond, but I've also got a soft spot for his father, Frank. A real man's man, he's outspoken, and often outrageous. He's stubborn, but sometimes sensitive. He's the type of grandfather that'll discipline the kids in the morning, and take them to happy town in the afternoon. He won't like to admit it, but there's a heart of gold in there somewhere. Which is convenient, because he's taken first place.

Agree? Want more? Follow me on Twitter @nygiant1994 for entries less than 140 characters, notifications on my newest entries, or tweet me to suggest future lists, or future entries.

Top 10 Movie Portrayals of Real Life Bad Guys

You can't invent vilans like this. Welcome to Kiker's blog, and today I'll be counting down my picks for the top 10 best movie portrayals of real life bad guys.

10. Ray Liotta as Henry Hill-Goodfellas (1990): Even next to a remarkable performance from Joe Pesci, Ray Liotta shines as real life gangster Henry Hill. Though director Martin Scorcese prevented Liotta from meeting Hill until filming was complete, the actor studied recordings of the gangster which helped him get into character. Narrating the story, Liotta as the Irish-Italian gangster helps us understand the mob world, and what a man like Hill would do to survive.

9. Matt Stone as Saddam Hussein-South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut (1999): He was once the most dangerous man in the world, but you wouldn't know it based on this depiction. Cartoons can get away with more, and South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone use this to their advantage when lampooning Saddam and his lover, Satan. Though it's not the most realistic, this portrayal of the Iraqi dictator is as memorable as they come.

8. Gary Oldman as Lee Harvey Oswald-JFK (1991): Chances are if you weren't alive when President Kennedy was assassinated, the picture you have in your mind of Lee Harvey Oswald is actually of Gary Oldman. Though the two look remarkably similar, there's more to this portrayal than this appearance. Oldman acted as a detective while researching his role, which helped him embody in an almost eerie manner, the man accused of killing the president.

7. Johnny Depp as John Dillinger-Public Enemies (2009): While many film gangsters are simply impersonations off other film gangsters, this Depp performance is a cut above. Depicting the infamous depression era bank robber, he slaps on his best sardonic smile and acts with meticulousness, restraint, and boldness, in the face of the police and the FBI. Cool as ice and not afraid to get his hands dirty, Depp's Dillinger is cool, calculating, and real.

6. Brad Pitt as Jesse James-The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007): While critics agreed this film missed its mark, they were unanimous in their praise of Brad Pitt and his Oscar nominated costar Casey Affleck. While the relationship between the two wild west figures is what moves the plot along, Pitt definitely personifies the legend that is the outlaw Jesse James. It's perfect casting, as he's able to shift from murderer, to loving father, to crazy son of a bitch seamlessly.

5. Denzel Washington as Frank Lucas-American Gangster (2007): This is one performance that proves gangsters can be cruel, as well as suave and smooth. New York drug lord and crime boss Frank Lucas is known for his style and flare, and confidence shines through in every scene thanks to Washington's stellar performance. Though the actor tries his hardest not to glamorize the drug world, its hard not to fall for Lucas' charms.

4. Eric Bana as Mark "Chopper" Read-Chopper (2000): Before becoming an improbable star thanks to thanks to a run of semi-autobiographical novels, legendary Australian criminal Chopper Read was one of the baddest guys from the land down under. By studying the criminal up close in person, and undergoing an intense physical transformation, comedian Eric Bana is able to use his breakout performance to channel choppers' instability and fearlessness. Meaning we see some mean fits of rage interspersed with some sad disappointments.

3. Charlize Theron as Aileen Wuornos-Monster (2003): Sent to death row for seven murders, Wuornos is as far as you get from Charlize Theron. Theron transformed physically with extra weight, makeup, and false teeth, but it's the psychological transformation that's most striking. Theron's mastery over body language, and even eye movements convey more about the character than words. And underneath the face of a mentally disturbed, damaged woman, Theron plays Wuornos with empathy and emotion.

2. Forest Whitaker as Idi Amin-The Last King of Scotland (2006): Winning the Oscar for his work, Whitaker truly became the feared Ugandan dictator. Charismatic and easy, Amin possessed characteristics typical of a beloved leader. But his jovial nature quickly transitioned into violent, paranoid behavior, and Whitaker perfectly presents these traits. Tracing Amin's descend into madness during his murderous and repressive reign over Uganda, the film and Whitaker himself remind us how scary the truth can be.

1. Bruno Ganz as Adolf Hitler-Downfall [Der Untertang] (2004): Set in the bunker where Hitler died, this German film humanizes the Nazi leader in a way few thought possible, or necessary. Delusional and demanding as ever, the Fuhrer is brought back to life unbelievably by Bruno Ganz, but instead of portraying him as unquestionably evil like so many before him, Ganz gives the character dimension mixed with his fanaticism, Making for an unsettling film, but a stellar performance.

Agree?