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+.