Jan 20, 2024
0
Cristina

Dope Music Videos (The Essentials Series)

Continuing our Essentials series, today we’re looking at Dope music videos. I will be highlighting the five videos I think are the most iconic (in my opinion) out of Dope’s entire catalogue. As always, this post comes with a disclaimer: I am not a “professional” reviewer. I’m just a fan, and these are my opinions! If yours are different, I love that for you. What a boring life we’d have if everyone agreed about everything.

Are you ready? Let’s get right into it.

Number 1: “Lovesong”
Album: Blood Money Part Zer0

dope video lovesong

WATCH VIDEO (@DOPETHEBAND) // VIEW SCREENCAPS (EDF PHOTO)

This probably didn’t come as much of a surprise for those who’ve been repeat visitors to this site. I’ve spoken quite a lot of my love for this video. A collaboration between Edsel and long time creative partner Matt Zane, Lovesong is an interesting spin on the original The Cure classic. I think one of the marks of a great music video is the ability for it to transport you to a time and a place. It’s easy to get drawn into this evocative world. The aesthetics, the general mood of the video, it all works.

Number 2: “Now or Never”
Album: Life

dope video now or never

WATCH VIDEO // VIEW SCREENCAPS (EDF PHOTO)

I have also frequently expressed my love for Now or Never. Prior to the release of Lovesong, it was my favorite Dope video. Although it currently sits at a respectable number 2, it will forever occupy a unique spot in my heart. A bit of a bummer is that this video tends to be overlooked or underrated by fans. Despite the widespread acclaim for Blood Money as the epitome of Dope’s vibe, I firmly believe that Now or Never encapsulates that essence just as well.

Number 3: “Misery”
Album: Blood Money Part Zer0

WATCH VIDEO (@DOPETHEBAND) // VIEW SCREENCAPS (EDF PHOTO)

Hey look, another Edsel and Matt Zane collab! Featuring the Hellzapoppin’ Circus sideshow (read more about them in my Flashback Sunday feature about the video here), Misery is the kind of slick, fun rock n roll we love to hear. And the video really is no different at all. It’s a blast all around, for sure. I don’t often rewatch music videos, but this one? You bet.

Number 4: “Sing”
Album: Group Therapy

WATCH VIDEO // VIEW SCREENCAPS (EDF PHOTO)

You ever watch a video and you just “get” it? It’s a bit hard to explain – it just feels like this video IS this song. I don’t think it would have fit as well if it was anything else. And that it’s so simple is another win in its corner. Don’t get me wrong, I love seeing bells and whistles as much as any girl does. But sometimes, a video get a mark in the W column just as easily without it.

Number 5: “Believe”
Album: Blood Money Part Zer0

WATCH VIDEO (@DOPETHEBAND) // VIEW SCREENCAPS (EDF PHOTO)

Yes, I know. I’ve chosen quite a few videos from the latest album. But eh, what are ya gonna do? I admit, I’m a bit of a sucker for snow/winterscapes (I liked it in Lovesong as well). I also like the callbacks to Drama Club’s video for Halloween 365. It’s a fun tie in for a song that was originally meant to be for Drama Club. As a fan of both groups, I found it a very creative and interesting way for both to be represented AND stay true to each.

That’s my rundown of the top five Dope videos (in my opinion). Did I miss your fave? Don’t worry, I probably love that one too. That being said, I don’t want to keep you here all day, and I certainly could if left to talk about this subject. Until next time, folks!

Want to see more of the Essentials series? Click here!



Jan 14, 2024
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Cristina

Flashback Sunday: Sounds like Drama (Club)

For your Flashback Sunday today, I’m going to switch gears a tiny bit if you don’t mind. It feels like I talk a lot about Dope and Static-X in terms of Edsel or Edsel-adjacent projects. I love those subjects, but the man does A LOT of things I want to highlight. Today, we’re going to talk about one of those projects that isn’t talked about nearly enough. Today’s topic is… Drama Club!

To that end, we’re gonna feature this 2015 interview with Andy Biersack while I talk a bit about Drama Club. (It’s queued to start when they show up. Or rather… jump in, in a quite literal sense!) It’s a really fun interview, I think you’ll enjoy this one. Something about the energy makes me smile. Now, let’s talk about the band!

So, what IS Drama Club?

drama club

Drama Club is another musical project of Edsel Dope. If you’ve listened to Dope’s latest release Blood Money Part Zer0, you’ve heard Drama Club. The band features most notably on Lovesong and Misery, and the track Believe was initially meant to be for Drama Club, not Dope. Edsel Dope is of course in Drama Club, having revealed himself to be behind the persona of “Zer0”. The band was born of Edsel’s desire to do something different and put out another kind energy into the music industry. While Dope is very aggressive and in your face, Drama Club is a complete 180. Drama Club’s music tends to focus on themes of feeling free and being accepted, when there is a theme at all. (Sometimes dance music has no theme but “let’s party!”, and that’s great too!)

I’ve seen some reviewers get pedantic about Drama Club featuring on Blood Money Part Zer0, with the complaint that Edsel is guesting on his own work. I tend to think this is coming from people who don’t know anything about Drama Club or the kind of music they create. “Oh Edsel is part of the project, it must be exactly the same type of music!” I hate to dust off an old chestnut in response, but “one of these things is not like the other”.

The two projects are an apples and oranges comparison: Drama Club is a completely different band that produces completely different music. Drama Club is EDM/electronic, while Dope is of course metal/hard rock. If you’re looking for some of their music to check out, I have a few song recommendations for you! Try Rockit, Maniac and in keeping with the Flashback, They Don’t Need to Understand. That song was originally done by Andy Biersack (as Andy Black), and he’s also in today’s interview feature.

Looking for more of Drama Club? Of course you are. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram. And of course – sub to them on Youtube with notifications turned on.

Want to read more Flashback Sunday posts? Click here!



Jan 10, 2024
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Cristina

Machine Killer Tour THIRD leg announced!

machine killer tour

Just when you think things couldn’t possibly get any better today, Dope’s official Facebook page has announced a THIRD leg of the Machine Killer Tour! You heard right – even more chances to see Dope opening for Sevendust and Static-X! It looks like this leg will take them through Canada, the Midwest and the PNW. This will no doubt make all the fans up there super happy.

This has been quite a day for Edsel news! Along with the debut of Static-X’s Otsego Placebo video that Edsel directed, plus the looming release of Project Regeneration Vol 2, we also get new tour dates? Don’t forget, we still have the 2nd leg of the Machine Killer tour to look forward to! This is shaping up to be a killer year for Edsel. (Excuse the pun)

You can find info on how to purchase tickets for the new dates right here on Dope’s official site. Are you going to any of the shows? If they are playing close to where you live, go! I cannot recommend this tour enough. I had such a good time at the Atlanta stop. Don’t even think about it, your kids and your pets will be fine for a few hours with a babysitter! You deserve to treat yourself.



Jan 10, 2024
0
Cristina

Otsego Placebo, directed by Edsel Dope, is LIVE!

Static-X has just dropped the video for “Otsego Placebo”, directed by Edsel Dope, and it is phenomenal. Somehow, Edsel has managed to capture what being at a Static-X show is like. It’s a kind of energy that just electrifies you. This video did not disappoint, that’s for sure. Have you seen it yet?

otsego placebo

In the video, you can see Edsel’s work as creative director for the band. I find a lot of people don’t know what being a creative director is: we hear the term frequently, but no one ever explains what the job entails. In its most basic sense, a creative director is responsible for creating and delivering a stylistic vision for their client. They are also responsible for media outreach and executing a cohesive brand strategy. I of course cannot comment on Edsel’s exact day to day as creative director for Static-X, but the aesthetics for stage shows would definitely be under the umbrella of his job.

I’ve taken a few choice caps that I think perfectly show off the energy and vibe of a Static-X live performance. And please watch the video for Otsego Placebo HERE on Static-X’s Youtube channel! If you have not already, give the video a big thumbs up and subscribe with notifications turned on. You don’t want to miss this and other videos from the band!



Jan 10, 2024
0
Cristina

Edsel directed “Otsego Placebo” video to debut!

edsel directed otsego placebo video

BIG news! Static-X is dropping a video for the song Otsego Placebo on 10 January! Edsel is listed as having directed the video, so I’m absolutely covering this release! We don’t have a teaser with this one like we did for Dope’s Lovesong video, unfortunately. However, we do know from past videos Edsel has directed that he 110% knocks it out of the park every single time. Edsel has done an incredible job as Static-X’s creative director. I can’t wait to see this video. I’m super excited!

Click here to be taken to the video. If you’re reading this before it premieres, be sure to hit the notification bell as I’ve demonstrated above to make sure you’re notified when it debuts!



Jan 9, 2024
0
Cristina

Dope VIP packages still available!

Dope VIP

Dope VIP packages are still available, per a post on Dope’s official Facebook page! Guys, I know I’ve harped about this a lot, but if you can swing it I really recommend taking this opportunity! As you know, I did in fact participate in the VIP bus hang in Atlanta and it was amazing! The entire meet and greet was for sure a bucket list experience for me. Best. Day. EVER.

Making the Most of your Experience!

If you’re going, here are some of my tips to ensure it’s a smooth experience:

  • Make sure you get to the venue a bit early. While the notice does say 17:45, we all know things can happen and it’s better to be early than too late.
  • Ask event staff to make sure you’re where you’re supposed to be if you’re not sure. Don’t be shy!
  • If it’s getting close to the meeting time and you haven’t heard anything, it’s okay to ask event staff if you’re where you need to be. Event staff can get side tracked just like anyone else.
  • If the line to get your free merch is too long, remember you can always get it after the show.
  • I actually went by myself because I had no one that wanted to come to Atlanta with me. So … my last tip is definitely bring a friend! I would have loved to share this experience with someone. (That sounds really sad, but I promise I was fine! I just wish I could have found a friend to go with me.) If you ARE going solo, that is completely okay. They won’t turn you away or anything.

I got to meet Edsel and Dan during the meet and greet. They were both very kind and gracious. As I mentioned in my post about the experience, I came away from this an even bigger fan of Edsel.

How to Purchase

Are you interested in purchasing a Dope VIP package for the 2nd leg of the Machine Killer Tour? Click here for info and how to purchase on Dope’s official website! The Machine Killer Tour 2nd leg kicks off on Feb 1st: have you got your tickets?? Click here to purchase!



Jan 7, 2024
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Cristina

EDF.org Merch Roundup: January 2024

I’ve got that shopper’s eye again, so it’s time for another EDF.org Merch Roundup! If you’re unfamiliar with the Merch Roundup, it’s quite simple: I choose my picks for the best of Dope’s merch store. We’re looking at the Machine Killer Tour’s 2nd leg on the horizon, so now’s a great time to get merch to prepare!

As always, a disclaimer: no one is paying me for my opinions! I don’t get a commission if you buy any of this. These are just items I like and want to highlight on EDF.org.

dope shirt

2022 Logo Shirt

You know, there’s something to be said about the classics. You’ve got that iconic Dope logo… what else do you really need? And as someone who has a few shirts from this merch store, I gotta say… they’re some of the most comfy shirts I own. So you’ll be classic AND comfortable.

Flag Shirt

Another iconic Dope logo: the flag logo. I’d really be hard pressed to name something more quintessentially Dope than this.

Believe Mug

One of these days, I’ll do a Merch Roundup that doesn’t have a mug. Today’s not that day. You can always use another mug in your collection. I picked this one because I’ve always found that fiery zero logo quite cool. Plus you’ll be repping quite an awesome song.

Dope Null Shirt

Yes indeed there is a shirt with only the Dope Null logo. However, this is merch from the Rise of the Machine tour AND it’s on sale as of this writing. The addition of the text logo is a nice touch.

And that wraps up the January Merch Roundup! Hopefully my picks inspired you to grab something interesting from the merch store. Click here for past Merch Roundups!



Jan 3, 2024
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Cristina

A Closer Look: Ecco Studios

If asked to identify what Edsel Dope is most known for, the majority of fans would without a doubt say “vocalist for Dope.” With good reason! Seven studio albums, a slew of music videos, and many successful tours around the world have ensured Edsel’s enduring legacy on the music scene.

That being said, there’s more to this rock icon than meets the eye. Edsel’s influence and talent stretches further than some fans realise. And today, we’re introducing a new series to bring attention to those ventures!

Welcome to “A Closer Look”, where we highlight the other aspects of Edsel’s multi faceted career! We’re starting with industry titan Ecco Studios. What is it, what do they do, and most importantly: how is Edsel involved?

A disclaimer: I fully admit I am not savvy with this sort of tech! I understand what it does, but please do not look to me for an expert viewpoint. With that being said, let’s get into it.

Ecco Studios: A Leader in its Field

ecco studios

Ecco Studios is a Los Angeles based 3D/4D capture stage. If like me, you were wondering what the difference is between 3D and 4D, here’s a breakdown:

  • 3D captures the shape and structure of things in three dimensions: length, width and depth. Instead of just a flat picture, you can also discern how far away something is.
  • 4D does all of the above, but also adds the element of time. It captures how things move and change.

In simple terms, Ecco Studios uses 3D and 4D data to capture incredibly lifelike and realistic digital representations of humans. They’ve worked with industry powerhouses like Industrial Light and Magic and EA, and their work spans from movies to video games to TV. The company produced this video with TV’s Terry Crews that showcases a bit of their process. I recommend you give it a look as it really is very insightful!

As I stated above, I’m not even going to pretend I know the ins and outs of the tech side of things, but the examples are simply stunning. If you told me the below was a real person and not digitally created, I would have believed you. Look at the level of detail present. You can even see the pores on his skin.

Edsel’s Role in the Company

What’s Edsel’s role in Ecco Studios? In his own words, he’s COO and co-owner of the company. What’s a COO? A chief operating officer is responsible for the day to day admin work of a business. This squares with what Edsel mentioned is his job function in the Drinks with Johnny podcast. (Click the link to go right to the section where he speaks about Ecco Studios: from its founding to his day to day work with the company!)

To quote the man himself when describing the dynamic with his business partner: “I’m gonna help surround you with all of the resources that you need, the team members that you need, and I’m just going to let you work. And I’m gonna handle all the bullshit that gets in your way on a daily basis.” So in essence: he’s the one doing all the administrative tasks necessary for a business to function!

Scratching the Surface

I couldn’t possibly go over everything Ecco Studios does in one article. We’d be here all day, and even then I’m positive I’d leave something out. If you’d like to learn more about them, you can visit their website at eccostudios.com and read a bit more about the capture process!

I hope you enjoyed this closer look at Ecco Studios, and have a bit more of an understanding of what Edsel does outside of his music career! Click here to read more from the A Closer Look series.



Dec 29, 2023
0
Cristina

Mixed Update: Whole Lotta Edsel

Hope the holidays were good for everyone. I’m back with another Edsel filled mixed update. Let’s get right into it!

Gallery Update: Dope – “Dead World”

  • EDF Photo has been updated with screen captures from Dope’s video “Dead World“. Since this IS just a teaser, sadly I don’t have too much to tell you about this video. I have my own theories about what this video is calling back to, but since those are just theories I will keep them to myself. Who knows, maybe we’ll be treated to the full video sometime soon!
  • If you’ve not seen this video, click here to watch it on Dope’s official Youtube channel.

Gallery Update: Dope – “Best of Me”

  • We’ve also updated our gallery to include caps from “Best of Me“. This video features MMA fighter Juliana “Killer” Miller. She was also on a show called “The Ultimate Fighter 30“, which she won! That win netted her a UFC contract, so hey! Good on her. We love to see it. It’s also worth mentioning this is the second of the videos in this update where we see Acey Slade, since he also appears in Dead World.
  • If you’d like to watch the video, click here and watch it right on Dope’s official Youtube channel. And yes, I know I keep harping on this, but sub if you aren’t already. You’re there anyway, might as well. I know some of you out there are watching and not subbing – it really does help when you subscribe!
  • Plus, you don’t wanna miss out when Dope uploads a video, right? Yes, I’ll be here yapping about everything Edsel does and you can find it out from me, but I need to sleep sometimes too. Sub and hit the notification bell so you never miss an upload.

Graphics: Wallpaper and GIFs added

  • One new wallpaper has been added to the Wallpaper section. It’s quite simple, but Edsel doesn’t need fancy ornaments. He shines on his own. Click the image for the full size, or to see this and more of my work, click here.
edsel wall
  • Four gifs from the Dead World video have been added.

That’s it for this mixed bag of updates! We’re coming into the new year soon, and I’m looking forward to being here to bring Edsel’s fans nothing but the very best. I hope to see you right here with me.



Dec 24, 2023
0
Cristina

Happy Holidays from EDF.org!

Just a quick note to wish everyone happy holidays! This has been a great year for us (and for Edsel!), and I have a feeling 2024 will be amazing. Here’s hoping you’re right here with us.

However you celebrate and whatever you celebrate, hope it’s a good one. Even if it’s celebrating another day, that sounds like a holiday to me! Take care everybody, and we’ll jump right back into things after Christmas.