Dec 4, 2023
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Cristina

Small Updates

Layout Change

  • I changed the layout slightly, I was getting slightly bored of all that blue. I’m quite happy with it, and I hope you are as well.

Page Updates/Refreshes

  • I’ve continued updating and refreshing many pages on the site. Edsel’s biography has gotten a new look, as have many pages in the Website section.

Link Buttons

  • It’s been a long time coming, but I’ve finally make link buttons! If you’d like to link edseldopefan.org, you can find them here.


Nov 30, 2023
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Cristina

The Essentials: Dope (The Albums)

Dope has a habit of putting out consistently excellent music. We all know that. But which albums are the ones we’d recommend to those starting out in the fandom? Which ones are the best of the bunch? The bar is already shockingly high, and with seven studio albums to choose from, the question is difficult to answer.

Today on The Essentials, edseldopefan.org attempts the monumental task of ranking our favourite Dope albums. Links to listen to each release are included, via Dope’s official Youtube channel. (You know the drill: sub if you haven’t already – it really does make a difference!)

A disclaimer: I’m not a professional reviewer by any means, but I am a long time fan. What all reviews have in common is they are just one person’s opinion. If you would have chosen differently, great! Differences of opinion make conversations about music more interesting. What a boring world we would live in if everyone agreed on everything all the time.

With that out of the way, let’s hop right into it!

American Apathy

Released: July 26, 2005 // Listen?
  • I admit, the fact that this album is so nostalgic for me is part of the reason why it’s ranked so high. Truthfully, this record was what made me fall in love with the band! American Apathy is often overlooked in the conversation about Dope’s albums, and that’s kind of a bummer. This is the album responsible for No Way Out, I’m Back and Survive – and all three are pretty essential Dope tracks. (Always is also on this album, which remains one of my absolute favourite Dope songs) In interviews from the time, Edsel stated American Apathy is an album that doesn’t take itself so seriously, which actually makes me like it even more. I’m dying on this hill: this album doesn’t get enough credit, it’s awesome. In fact, you should go listen to it immediately. Or at least… after you read the rest of this article.

Blood Money Part Zer0

Released: February 23, 2023 // Listen?
  • To hear me talk sometimes, one might think I listen to nothing but Dope all day. This is not the case, but I digress. We were all waiting a long time for this album, and in that time I listened to a lot of music from other artists. Some awesome, some lousy. When Blood Money Part Zer0 finally dropped, I listened to it from start to finish for hours without skipping a song. I genuinely do not remember the last time I did that. One of my favourite things about Blood Money Part Zer0 is how the record goes for it with new ideas while still remaining true to Dope’s style and aesthetic. Of particular note to me are Dope’s take on “Lovesong”, along with “Parasite” and “Row”, with all three songs feeling both fresh and familiar. People change and grow, that’s a good thing! We love to see it.

Blood Money Part 1

Released: October 28, 2016 // Listen?
  • When asked to name Dope’s most iconic album, many fans point to this one. It might arguably be the band’s most well known work: Blood Money Part 1 was Dope’s highest charting album in the US (ranking at number 27). It also produced some of their best known songs: Selfish, Hold On and of course, Blood Money were all on this album. To this day, the videos for these three songs are some of the most popular videos on Dope’s official Youtube channel. Blood Money Part 1 also has low key bangers like Lexipro and Numb alongside the eternal classic 1999, making it a must listen for any Dope fan.

No Regrets

Released: March 10, 2009 // Listen?
  • The fact that I named my hosting domain undevoted.org might be a clue to this album’s place in my heart. (undevoted.org is what hosts EDF.org, after all…) I’ve found that if people don’t name a song off Blood Money Part 1 as one of their faves, it’s usually something from No Regrets. And with good reason – this album has a lot of great stuff. Violence, Addiction and My Funeral were standouts on this album, as were the title track and Best for Me (both personal anthems of mine). Its simplicity is its strength. No Regrets is the kind of balls to the wall rock that Dope is known for: put it on and crank it up loud.

So, what do you think? Were your favourites on this list? Have your say at any time by contacting me. Until next time!



Nov 26, 2023
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Cristina

Flashback Sunday: Heavy New York Interview

For today’s Flashback Sunday, we’re looking back at an interview with Edsel with Heavy New York. For those unfamiliar with Heavy New York, here’s how they describe themselves on their Youtube channel:

Alex Haber of Heavy New York takes you on a journey through the Heavy music through many artist interviews to discuss their songwriting process, inspiration, creative energy, hometown scenes and the metal community itself.

In the interview, Edsel talks about Dope’s start in NYC, his inspiration and lyrical process, and a whole lot more. Check out the interview, and if you like what you see, why not sub to Heavy New York on Youtube? You can also visit their website at heavy.nyc.



Nov 23, 2023
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Cristina

Misc. Updates (Graphics, screencaps, ect)

A few little updates for you today. For those in the US, happy Thanksgiving! Consider this my gift to you. And if you live elsewhere, it’s still a gift for you. Just… not a Thanksgiving one.

Wallpapers

  • Three Wallpapers have been added to the Wallpaper section. Your desktop needs more Edsel, and I’m here to deliver.
  • I’ve been obsessed with making more media relating to the Lovesong video and had the idea for that one kicking in my head for awhile. The wallpaper is a bit of a different visual aesthetic than people are used to for Dope, but that’s not a bad thing. You could say that for the video itself, too. Change is good! We support Edsel wherever his creative mind takes him.
  • Simply click on the previews to get the full sized wallpaper, and if you’d like to see all my offerings click here.

GIFs

  • Two gifs from the Lovesong video were added.

Screencaps (Now or Never)

VIEW SCREENCAPS ON EDF PHOTO // VIEW VIDEO

  • 46 screencaps of Dope’s Now or Never video have been added to EDF Photo. This tends to be a video fans either haven’t seen a lot of or don’t remember, and that’s really a shame. Before Lovesong came out and unseated it, Now or Never was actually my favourite Dope video. (Coming in second isn’t anything to be ashamed of though!) I’ve linked the video for you to check out if you haven’t, or it’s been awhile since you’ve seen it. I really recommend that you do!

Site Cleanup

  • I’ve been going through the site and giving some pages a facelift and improvements. You might not notice them right away, but I hope you appreciate it none the less. I’m always working on making this site the very best it can be for you.

And that’s about it, I know this update was a bit all over the place. It’s the result of me working in the background for the past week. Please enjoy!



Nov 19, 2023
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Cristina

The Essentials: Dope (The Cover Songs)

Nailing a cover song is hard for an artist. You’re performing a song that was written to be right for someone else, not you. Picking the right song is incredibly important, but equally important is taking what was awesome about that song and putting your own unique twist on it. Or else, what’s the point? Dope knocks it out of the park with their covers every single time: producing cover songs so natural and effortless, you’d believe they were original compositions.

In our last Essentials, I mentioned doing an article just on Dope’s cover songs. Today’s the day: welcome to The Essentials: Dope (The Cover Songs). And yes, this is an ordered list.

Curious? Read on!

Rebel Yell
Original Artist: Billy Idol (from the album Rebel Yell)
Appears On: No Regrets

Bet you thought we’d choose You Spin Me Round (Like a Record) for the top spot, huh? Don’t worry, you’ll see it in the countdown for sure. Part of what informs my decision is being a Billy Idol fan, admittedly. Dope’s version of this classic has all the style, snarl, and swagger of the original while still remaining consistent with Dope’s aesthetic. A good cover that pays tribute to the original while keeping the artist’s own point of view is hard to come by, and Dope not only knocks it out of the park with this one… they send the ball into outer space!

Lovesong
Original Artist: The Cure (from the album Disintegration)
Appears On: Blood Money Part Zer0

The addition of Drama Club on this track adds a fun twist to Dope’s interpretation of The Cure’s timeless classic. Edsel’s vocals are full of passion and longing, but there are also times where his voice seems to reflect a sense of urgency. That’s a take that’s not present on the original, and it’s an intriguing way to interpret the song. It’s almost a lonelier version, a viewpoint enforced in the video by the scenes of the bleakness of winter and the isolation of the video’s protagonist. This is of course, my subjective opinion – and that a song can be interpreted different ways is what’s great about covers. They can with just a few stylistic changes bring a new depth or a different point of view to the song.

You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)
Original Artist: Dead or Alive (from the album Youthquake)
Appears On: Felons and Revolutionaries

This is a mainstay at Dope concerts for a reason. It’s an absolute blast to hear live! To be honest, I believe this cover version to be one of the few out there in all of music that actually surpasses the original. Don’t get me wrong – both songs are incredible. But Dope’s arrangement of the song fits better with the lyrics, in my opinion. This total 180 in attitude and style still keeps the original cheek and fun of the song while clearly expressing Dope’s artistic point of view. Plus… you put either version of this song on, and I’m dancing. No questions asked.

People are People
Original Artist: Depeche Mode (from the album Some Great Reward)
Appears On: American Apathy

I’ll be honest with you… I *almost* put Dope’s cover of Thieves (originally done by Ministry) in this spot. The most important reason this won out? Dope’s version of People are People takes everything great about Depeche Mode’s original and makes it bigger and better. That’s not to say Thieves doesn’t do this, but People are People ever so slightly edges it out in this regard. A great cover should also harken back to the original while still presenting a new and fresh take. This cover does that and more.

And that’s our list of the essential Dope cover songs. What do you think of our rankings? Would you have said something different? You’re always welcome to contact me! I love hearing what you all have to say.

I know I said I would do a Flashback Sunday this week, but with this post being completed I didn’t see the sense in waiting. Flashback Sunday will return next Sunday, and recur every two weeks.



Nov 14, 2023
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Cristina

EDF.org Merch Roundup

I’ve been browsing the Dope merch store, so it’s time for another Merch Roundup! If this is your first Roundup, these are features where I highlight items from Dope’s store that have caught my eye. I do them approximately whenever I feel like it, which generally amounts to once or twice a month.

As always with any Roundup, it comes with a big fat DISCLAIMER: I am not receiving commissions if you buy anything through these links! No one is paying me for my opinions. These are simply items in the Dope merch store that I like and decided to share with you. With that out of the way, let’s jump right in!

DOPE LOGO MUG

It wouldn’t be a Merch Roundup without a mug, would it? Pretty sure I’ve featured at least one mug in every Roundup. I’m not sure if this was in the shop when I did the last one, but I think we can all agree that drinking your coffee out of a mug that says Dope on it is rad on many levels.

Dope Zer0 Embroidered Hat

I’ve said before on the Roundup that I’m not a hat person. But Dope and Static-X’s merch shops keep proving me a liar. I LOVE this hat. Plus, look at Edsel on the underbill! I actually really want this, I’m probably buying it to be honest.

CROSS SHIRT

I genuinely love this cross logo. Simple, cool, this is just a great looking shirt all around. You’ll always be representing the best in this shirt, and it’s so versatile I can see it being in heavy rotation in your wardrobe.

Blood Money Part Zer0 Record and Hoodie Bundle

Okay… this is pricey, and I totally get that. But I wouldn’t recommend this bundle to you if I didn’t truly think it was worth the money. Look at all the goodies you get with it! I’m super jealous of the bag and the poster in particular. Plus, there are three different versions of this package: Shirt, Hoodie (the one I’m featuring), and Shirt and Hoodie. So you can choose what best suits your taste and price point.

That’s about it for this Roundup – Merch Roundups are one of my favourite features on EDF.org, and I hope you like them as well!



Nov 12, 2023
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Cristina

New Layout!

edseldopefan.org has a new layout! I’m actually super happy with this, I think it turned out absolutely gorgeous. I know it’s not exactly the aesthetic you’re used to when it comes to Edsel, but there’s room for all sorts of styles out there! To paraphrase Edsel himself: “It’s art! It either speaks to you, or it doesn’t. Either way, it’s all good.”

I’ve been giving the site an overhaul bit by bit so be sure to browse around! Flashback Sunday will be back next week, as I wanted to give EDF.org’s new look a chance to shine. A couple of things caught my eye recently in the world of Dope merch, so there may be a new Merch Roundup soon as well.



Nov 9, 2023
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Cristina

EDF Photo Updated

DEBONAIRE SCREENCAPS // SICK SCREENCAPS // WATCH DEBONAIRE AND SICK ON YOUTUBE

Apologies for the delay in updates. I’ve been working on a new layout for EDF.org, so that’s taken a bit of my time. I don’t have an exact date it will be debuted other than SOON[tm], but it’s shaping up to be gorgeous. I can’t wait for you to see it.

EDF Photo has been updated, with the following galleries added:

  • Debonaire
  • Sick

With these additions, EDF Photo has an incredible 1,090 photos in 22 albums! What’s wild is, we’ve only just begun. I started EDF.org to give back to a man who truly inspires me, and it’s my sincere hope you enjoy this site as much as I love working on it for you. edseldopefan.org is the largest and most continuously updated resource for Edsel Dope, and it’s certainly my pleasure to bring only the best to you – his devoted fans! Thank you so much for your visits and kind words, it really means the world.

Sorry for that detour, but it does come from the heart. Thank you.

If you have not already seen the videos for Debonaire and Sick, I think you know what you must do. Click the links above to watch them right on Dope’s official channel. If you aren’t already subbed, why not hit subscribe? It really does help a lot to subscribe and show your support for Edsel and his music! Not only can you watch these and a ton of other Dope videos on their channel, you can check out all their releases as well. Right now, Dope’s sitting at about 121K subscribers, and while that does make them eligible for a Silver creator award… we can do better than that, right? Right. When you sub, be sure to hit the notification bell so you never miss an upload, as seen below:



Nov 1, 2023
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Cristina

Wayne Static: A Fond Memorial

wayne static

On November 1st, 2014, the music world lost a legend. Or at least, that’s what I would be saying if we were talking about anyone else but the incomparable Wayne Static. Though Wayne may be physically gone from this world, his legacy and influence have far outlived him.

A Passion for Music

Wayne Richard Wells was born on November 4th, 1965 in Muskegon, MI to Richard and Darlene Wells. His love of music started early: as a youngster, he was enthralled by the larger than life personas of the band KISS. By the age of twelve, he had started his first band with a group of neighbourhood friends. It was these first exposures to music that shaped young Wayne and cemented his determination to make music his career. He would burst onto the world stage with Static-X in 1999 with the band’s debut album Wisconsin Death Trip, leaving a lasting impression on the music scene.

Wayne Static was never one to go with the crowd. His genre defining style set trends but never followed them. Wayne’s work with Static-X spanned six studio albums, producing hits like “Cold”, “I’m With Stupid” and “Push It”. His solo outing Pighammer further solidified Wayne’s reputation as the King of Evil Disco.

A Lasting Legacy

Wayne left this world far too soon aged 48. His impact on the music industry was immense, and his legacy continues to this day. Part of his last recordings with Static-X were released with the band’s Project Regeneration Vol I in 2020, with one reviewer writing: “Static-X were ahead of their time and perhaps a little underrated. Through this cathartic process, the album serves as a love letter to Static and their loyal fan base, a respectful tribute that both honors his legacy and adds an unexpected new chapter to their discography.”

Did Wayne have any idea he would one day become such an icon? It likely never crossed his mind. Wayne did everything he did for the pure love of his craft, and the deep love he possessed for his fans.

We loved you too, Wayne. We still do. You gave us everything you had.

Thank you. For all of it.



Oct 29, 2023
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Cristina

Flashback Sunday: Misery, baby…

SOURCE: @dopetheband // VIEW SCREENCAPS (EDF PHOTO)

For your Flashback Sunday this week, we’ve gone against the grain a bit. We usually point you to an interview but today, we’re taking a look at the video for Misery off Dope’s latest release Blood Money Part Zer0.

Misery was directed by Edsel Dope and longtime collaborator Matt Zane. Like Lovesong, Misery also showcases the talents of Drama Club, which always add an innovative twist to any track. As with any production between the powerhouse duo of Edsel and Matt Zane, this video is nothing but quality from start to finish. The artistry still brings the boys to the yard, or in this case… would it be the sideshow to the circus? Which leads us to the next question: who are the mysterious circus performers featured in the video?

Hellzapoppin Circus Sideshow are an entertainment troupe based out of Dallas, Texas. Led by creator and mastermind Bryce “The Govna” Graves, Hellzapoppin takes the traditional idea of the circus sideshow and turns it on its head. Described as a rock n roll circus sideshow, Hellzapoppin features incredible stunt performers like the fiery Willow Lauren, illusionist Dan Sperry, and the thrilling Andrew S. You can check out Hellzapoppin’s fantastic performance right here in the Misery video – and if you like what you see, why not catch them on tour? They have dates all throughout the rest of 2023, and from what I’ve checked out it’s a hell of a show.

Once you’re done watching the video for Misery, be sure to give it a thumbs up on Youtube and if you haven’t already, subscribe to @dopetheband. You can also check out EDF Photo’s 71 screencaps of the Misery video!