Some people use music to chill out, but others prefer tunes that pump them up. Josh Marsh, sophomore recording technologies major, is the latter. Marsh’s tastes veer towards the extreme side of the spectrum. For Marsh, the ultimate playlist is one that gets his heart pumping and his head banging.

1. “The Face of My Innocence”   by Arsis

You’ve got to start the disc off with a bang. The lightning-fast double bass, head-spinningly intricate guitar work and healthy dose of melody give this song the kick it needs to start any metal disc off right.

2. “Everything You Love” by Love is Red

The self-righteous, “take control of your own life” attitude of this song is just plain empowering. The harsh nature of the vocals and instrumentals simply adds to the energy. You can’t listen to an anthem like this and not feel proud about the person you are.

3. “Lies” by Panzerchrist

There are times in life when you just know that the only person you can really depend on is yourself to get stuff done. This song’s speedy pace and in-your-face delivery are a testament to this notion.

4. “The Velourium Camper II” by Coheed and Cambria

Even the most hardcore of us metal fans have soft spots. On that note, with an ending lyric like, “I wish I could never hurt again,” how could any self-respecting guy disagree? You girls have that effect on us. This is indie/post-hardcore at its finest.

5. “Dying Will Be the Death of Me” by Cephalic Carnage

What with the cliché state of music today, especially within the realm of alternative listening options, this song really spouts off, in jest, reasons why innovation is required. Head-banging required!

6. “Birdo” by Horse the Band

Sometimes, music just has to be fun. I don’t know about you, but when I see a band whose lyrics are largely based upon Nintendo game plots and whose music incorporates an obnoxious-sounding Korg synthesizer, that’s the word that comes to mind. Just plain fun.

7. “Straws Pulled at Random” by Meshuggah

The technicality of this band is simply astounding. I challenge anyone out there to listen to a Meshuggah song, really listen, and attempt to follow the polyrhythm. It’s impossible. The sheer heaviness of the music in combination with the whirlwind of progression is simply untouchable.

8. “I Lost All My Money at the Cockfights” by Minus the Bear

The feel-good overtones of Minus the Bear have always been something you just know you can depend on when you’re feeling a little blue. The soaring melodies nearing the end of the song are guaranteed to bring a little warmth to your heart. It’s simply awesome stuff.

9. “Carnal Forge” by Carcass

What metal fan’s list would be complete without a late-year Carcass classic? This band’s progression from sheer brutality to the realms of outlandish melody is a testament to how diverse and powerful metal, especially death metal, really is. Just because the word “death” is involved doesn’t mean you can’t swoon over the solid footing of melodic metal mastery.

10. “We’re All Thieves” by Circa Survive

Although a newcomer to the scene, Circa Survive is making waves in the indie/post-hardcore community. The sober, heartfelt lyrics, in conjunction with the continuous waves of melodic, interweaving guitar melodies and simply-but-effective drumlines are just too much for a music fan to handle. Highly recommended.

11. “The Camera Eye” by Rush

Again with the classics. You’re simply not going to find a more competent group of musicians out there. Geddy Lee is an absolutely astonishing bassist, and Neil Peart is, arguably, one of the most solid, creative drummers in contemporary music. It’s creative, it’s powerful and it’s catchy. It’s Rush.