Such a great choice for a favorite! This album is absolutely killer, so much punchiness and like you pointed out I love the industrial tones that they lean into.
Yes Helmet is an incredible band, I wouldn't have ever heard of them without some people in the comments suggesting I give them a listen. I'm so thankful to have finally heard some of their music, because I'm hooked!
Saw them with Melvins back in the late 90s. Small venue in Dallas that doesn't exist anymore, probably around 20 feet from band, ears rang for three days afterwards. They played In The Meantime as the last song of encore.
Wow, that must've been a wild experience! I'm not at all surprised you said your ears were ringing for days after. They certainly know how to pack a punch with their music.
@@mollyesanborn The Pixies First 5 albums, but especially "Surfer Rosa" "Doolittle" Those with Jane's Addiction's "Nothing's Shocking" "Ritual de lo Habitual" Are four of the most important albums of the 80's (Ritual 1990) that gave birth to the Alternative/Indie scene in the early 90's. Oh and Sonic Youth's "Sister" "Daydream Nation" "Goo". Gotta Gotta Gotta. Please and Thank You Molly.
90's era Helmet is outstanding! Definitely recommend digging into the follow up to this record, Betty. Wilma's Rainbow, I Know, Milquetoast, Tic and Speechless are some all time great Helmet tracks. Also if you're a Helmet fan and digging around this era of alt metal and hardcore, Quicksand is a must listen. Their first two records Slip and Manic Compression are undeniable classics that I feel like never really received the love and attention they deserved.
I'll definitely plan on getting to a Betty reaction as well, can't wait to hear it! And Quicksand has been suggested a couple of times now, I'll have to look into them.
The first real concert I went to was Ministry, Sepultura and Helmet at MLG. I had never heard of Helmet at the time. after the first song, I looked at my friend and said "I need this album". I found the album the next day and it is still in my rotation to this day. 🤘🤘
Helmet are insurpassable. I have listened to literally thousands of albums across dozens of genres, but I think they might be my favourite band of all time. The drums are unique, the bass is unique, the guitars are unique. No one else sounds like them. Then on top of that they have that raw underproduced live sound to their albums. The moment you hear them you know it can only be Helmet. Most importantly, as well as their technical abilities, they are absolutely unreal songwriters.
Such a fantastic comment, I completely agree about their uniqueness. I really can't peg Helmet's sound down, they certainly utilize elements of nu metal, industrial, punk, but they push so far beyond falling into just one of those categories. They're such a unique band and I'm so glad to finally be discovering their music!
@@mollyesanborn I agree on this. I've told friends Helmet are awesome, but when they asked what genre they are, I just kinda sat there confused at what to say. I kinda concluded that they're kinda doing their own thing 😄Someone said "that's weird", but weird can sometimes be good because it can mean unique and unusual.
One of my all time favorite albums. It still sounds as fresh and modern as it did when it was released. It’s a progressive metal classic by a band at the peak of their talent and songwriting.
You should listen to one of Helmet's later albums after after Page Hamilton revives the project (he's the only original member.) "Seeing Eye Dog" is one of my favorite albums ever.
From the Helmet 2.0 era "Seeing Eye Dog" is my favorite too. It's pretty underrated and not so popular among Helmet fans (?), don't know why, I think it's a pretty good album (except "Morphing"). Somewhere someone wrote "its production is so baaad"... well could be, luckily I don't care about such bs.
Absolute classic album...these guys and Prong definitely paved the way for Deftones and their ilk...Page Hamilton's solos sound like a horse getting slapped on its ass and running wild n out of control. Prong's 'Beg To Differ' album you def need to check out as well.
This is such a good album! Been waiting for more Helmet reactions and this didn't disappoint. I can't wait for you to hear Betty. It's my favorite Helmet album and it's their most experimental but strongest release imo. You should definitely check out the 2010 expanded edition which features 3 bonus tracks! i can send you that version if you can't find it!
The band that is entirely power riffs, Page Hamilton is a legendary writer. Chevelle is a prime example of this as they noted Helmet as direct influencers. Page said in an interview some time ago that “In The Meantime” is one of the hardest songs to perform because of the timing of the guitars and singing he does at the same time. But look up any live performance and you’ll see him handling it like a boss.
I knew Helmet long before GTA SA came out therefore was very glad to hear Unsung regularly on "Radio X" while speeding through the areas like a maniac. 😄
The East coast’s answer to grunge of the early 90’s. Can’t wait to see a Betty reaction, their best work. Favorite song from them and very underrated as well, “Like I Care”
YES, I only heard of Helmet because they had been suggested in the comments on some of my other videos. I'm so glad to have discovered their music, they're such a talented band!
This album and Betty are easily Helmet's best albums. Page Hamilton has a way with hard-hitting, yet catchy staccato riffs. I've listened to this album as well as Betty so many times and never get tired of them.
John Stanier's drumming is DIVINE. Once he said that he never used a double bass pedal ... with that fact in mind listen to some songs again and give attention to his footwork (e.g. Repetition, Rollo, Birth Defect, FBLA & II, Just Another Victim, ... ) - just incredible! Everyone who ever played drums in their live (or tried to learn it) knows what I mean. 😉
Whoop! Patiently waited months for you to get round to this one, there's another shift in style for their following album (without losing the key Helmet sound) so it'll be interesting to have your comparison after that. I often feel like there's a freeform Jazz element to parts of Meantime, strange as it may sound. Jazz often requires that super tight nature between the musicians but also gives massive freedoms for each instrument to wander off during a song together. The guitars on this album frequently do this. It's possible I mentioned this on a few of your other comments section, may I recommend adding Gallows - Grey Britain to your ever growing list. It is an album with a dark soul & raw anger yet utterly compelling as a complete album piece. I also don't think you have fully taken a dive into Hardcore Punk as a genre yet either so it could be a new lane to explore.
Thanks so much for waiting, I know it took me way too long to get to this album. I'm so glad that I've heard it now, Helmet really poured soooooo much energy into this thing, it's incredible. I'm excited to hear Betty along with the rest of their albums and see what I'll think of their progression as a band. And I will make sure that Gallows is on my list, thanks :)
Yay! One of my fave albums back in the day. Such a super tight rhythm section as you did well to pick up on with the punchiness especially with the odd time signature. The improvement from Strap it On is like light & day. Betty & Aftertaste are also amazing albums. After that...mehh..due to line up changes..lol
Yeah I thought Strap It On was a great debut for them, loved their sound, but boy did they absolutely bring it with Meantime! They polished up everything perfectly without losing any of that rawness from their first record. I'll definitely have to do more of their albums and see what I'll think of their progression as a band.
I can attest to the addictiveness... I loved this album with one listen but it has continued to grow on me even more since filming the video. And I'll have to keep more Sepultura in mind for the future :)
Prong is another underrated band in the same vein and style, "Cleansing" is their strongest album in my opinion. They were very influential but still never got the success they deserved. And they still put out great albums today.
@@mollyesanborn No prob! They were one of the main influences for Pantera to get more heavy after their glam phase and the frontman Tommy Victor also played with Ministry for a while. Their debut "Force Fed" was a mix between thrash and hardcore but they quickly moved to a slower, more groove oriented sound. Beg to Differ was played on MTV but the fourth album "Cleansing" introduced some industrial vibes to the mix and for me it's just a perfect album that I listen to again and again.
I would definitely like to hear you listen to and comment on Betty. It is the album's 30th anniversary! Another good video, Molly! Thank you for continuing to offer up a variety of different artists and bands for your loving viewers!
I will definitely have to get to a Betty reaction in the future, I'm looking forward to hearing it. And thanks so much for the support, I appreciate it and am happy you're enjoying the videos :)
I vote you react to Breaking Benjamin - We are not alone. There are so many styles in that album you will appreciate and enjoy, especially since you enjoy tool / other rock bands. Breaking Benjamin is an absolutely fantastic band and they deserve love! Maybe saturate also, Saturate is a very unique album in BB's discography.
Absolutely, their drummer is such a powerhouse! This whole record is so dang catchy but intensely aggressive at the same time. I don't know how they do it but Helmet bridges the gap between smooth rhythm and sharp intensity so well. I bet they were amazing to see live!
Thanks for your patience! It took me wayyyy too long to get to this album, but man did it impress me. Helmet is a superb band and I am very excited to give Betty and Aftertaste a listen as well.
Strap it On was relatively unknown but a decent debut for them. This album really broke them, particularly the single and video for Unsung (back when MTV played music). It's a great album that still doesn't get old. Betty is good and so is Aftertaste. After that, they kind of change their sound and that's where their fanbase really divides.
I want you to react on 311's discography one of my favorite bands, their music could be very interesting to see your reaction with all the styles they blend. I suggest you the self titled also called the "blue album" from 1995 because it's their most successful one but at least any of the first 4 albums (Music, Grassroots, self-titled and Transistor) could be great to see you react as well! Great video reaction, classic album!
That's funny. 311 and Helmet were my two favorite bands all through my late teens and early 20's. 311 just released a new song the other day. It's pretty good.
Fantastic album. Glad to see you reviewed it. I have two album recommendations, both of which are by Melvins: Houdini and Stoner Witch. The first is more heavy on the "sludge" side. I think you'd really enjoy both of them and would love to know your thoughts.
Haven't listened to this in quite awhile, and never caught it before, but the beginning of "in the meantime" really sounds like Korn's "clown". I know they are a huge influence on them....but man oh man 😅
Ooh I can totally hear that similarity now that you point it out! It's very clear listening to this record that Helmet was such an influential band on the wave of rock/metal bands that would follow them.
Their next album "Betty" is a masterpiece. The following album "Aftertaste" is the most accessible and commercial sounding. One of my favorite bands. Thanks!
I can see why Helmet is one of your favorite bands, I am absolutely loving their music so far. I'm looking forward to hearing Betty and Aftertaste as well!
Milqetoast is my favorite song by Helmet. I love this channel, and your knowledge and intelligence is admirable. Would love to see your review of Betty. And more FNM/Bungle too. I feel like they inspired bands like Helmet.
This is a great album, but their 3rd record "Betty" is my favorite of theirs. And I know it's an unpopular opinion, but "Aftertaste" (their 4th album) is excellent as well. I played Aftertaste in my car for years in the late 90s/early 00's.
Page Hamilton is riff producing machine. Helmet is one of the most underrated contributors of what would become Nu metal. Can't wait for your reaction to Betty (my personal favorite Helmet album).
Molly! My hero! You did Meantime! One of the seminal albums of my teenage years. This band seemed to be exasperated with Generation X in this album, and I ate it up. I saw them live at a tiny venue with Faith No More in late 1992/early 1993 (the Angel Dust era). I had never heard them before, and I was sold. Turned Out is my favorite song by them. “High Times/hard times/Downtown Julie Brown” is the chorus, and it refers to a magazine, High Times, which is about cannabis culture, and Downtown Julie Brown was an MTV Video Jockey. In other words, the kids were getting high and watching the tube. This album seems to me to say, for the forty or fifty minutes that it runs for, that SOMETHING is wrong, whatever it may be. It made me angry. It tapped into my anger. But it tapped into an anger about the complacency of my peers, and it made me want to do better. I have them to thank for that. That show btw might have been the best show I’ve ever seen given it was the Angel Dust tour which is a top 3 ever album for me. And to top it off, I got blown away by Helmet who opened the show. Those were the days. The early 90’s were a great time for me. Oh to be 16 again and to have your whole life in front of you. Definitely check out Betty. It’s another classic. Helmet recently released an album called Left which is really good too. It’s political somewhat though, so I don’t know if you would want to go there. Thanks again, Molly! Another wonderful surprise reaction in the morning for me to discover!
I loved reading your comment, thank you so much for taking the time to share. That concert you were at sounds amazing! Faith No More AND Helmet?! What a lineup, the early 90's must have been an incredible time to be a young adult going to all of the shows of these bands that were just getting started in their careers. I'm glad you pointed out Turned Out in particular, that is I think my favorite off of this record as well! Such a punchy track but that amazing rhythm makes it so incredibly catchy. I'll definitely plan on doing a Betty reaction in the future as well (I will try not to make y'all wait another year before another Helmet reaction, haha!)
I saw that one in Columbus Ohio, and to date it is still one of my favorite shows. It was my first day of college in Aug. or Sep. 92. Helmet was so raw it set a great tone that Faith No More finished out with their broad sound base.
@@themetalpig7613 I say the biggest inspirations for the genre were: FNM, Primus, Mr. Bungle, Ministry, Pantera, Helmet & RATM. Several other artists also might have been influential to it but in my opinion these are the main inspirations for the style.
Okay so next, you really need to check out Poison the Well. Another superb 90's early 2000's band that often gets overlooked. Their album "Tear from the Red" is legendary!
I think the first time I heard of Helmet was on the original Jon Stewart show. Unsung is definitely my favorite off Meantime. I'm looking forward to hearing your reaction to the album Betty, as well. That album is so heavy.
loving that raw, unpolished sound helmet's. Love it watching you commenting all these great records. I really recommand you The downward spiral by Nine inch nails. A groundbreaking Industrial music.
Yes, I absolutely love their raw sound as well! Such a great band, I'm glad to finally be getting into more of Helmet's music. And I've actually already heard The Downward Spiral, I did a Nine Inch Nails album ranking video a few years back on the channel (I will say that it has grown on me much more since making this ranking and I'd now put it much higher in their discography). ruclips.net/video/QtCtn_IZDy0/видео.htmlsi=QBQgMdwOcG06Ej8X
Great album. Thanks for reacting to this. Can’t go wrong with Helmet’s 90s work. I definitely say do their next album Betty next. When it comes to other bands, I’d recommend 311 and Third Eye Blind.
reminder for you to check out love and death (korn guitarist project) and scars on broadway (soad guitarist second vocalist project) theyre both amazing, nearly as good as their main bands
This is a classic, more alt metal than the noise rock of the debut but probably more influential, Betty takes the two and throws in a few more genre's; it gets weird but is still a classic. I think you'd enjoy Quicksand's two 90's albums too, sort of similar but they approach alt metal from the post hardcore side rather than the metal/noise side.
I'm really looking forward to hearing Betty as well! Sounds like it'll be an interesting listen. And I'll make sure that I have Quicksand on my list, thanks for the suggestion :)
Helmet (& Hum too) are great windows into all the post-hardcore & noise rock of the 1990s. Another band from this scene would be Quicksand & their debut “Slip” - takes a Helmet-like sound but it’s got more melodic vocals (plus the bass player Sergio would go on to play on all Deftones albums from Diamond Eyes to Ohms)
Ooh I've gotta do more Hum soon on the channel! Still haven't heard Downward Is Heavenward. And someone else also suggested I give Quicksand a listen, I'll be sure to keep them in mind :)
This album is great and a personal favorite, but any guitar riff on it could have been shoved into any other song on the album without blinking. Their next album, Betty, was the first in which each song had its own character. Looking forward to your reaction (assuming you have one).
On my way to work i listened to the full album called Group Therapy by Dope. Such a good album imo. I had not dove deep into them before this. Always assumed they were a 1 or 2 "hit" wonder rock band. If you have ever watched OG fast and the furious, their best song plays during a FBi bust into a house scene. It is not on this album however.
Yeees great fkn album! Been waiting for this one, love everything about it, from the bass tone to the drum fills to the guitar solos to the riffs it's a banger... If you liked this one you are gonna enjoy Betty too, another album that doesn't really miss it's just well written songs by great musicians
Yep, this album is incredible. It's the perfect example of every component coming together beautifully, each band member shines so brightly on this record. I'm very excited to hear Betty as well.
If you happen to continue on with this band, do know that their sound gets a tad more poppy after this album. For any of you who like the band who aren't familiar with the indie label that this album was originally released on, it's called Amphetamine Reptile Records, and there are at least two other bands that I'd highly recommend giving a try sometime. First is a band called Cows. And then we have Hammerhead. Give "Into the Vortex" a spin. It's an all-time banger that almost nobody has ever heard.
I will keep that in mind, I am very curious to hear more of their albums following Meantime. And thanks for the suggestions! I'll make sure to add Cows and Hammerhead to my list.
Mmm I wouldn't consider Betty or Aftertaste to be poppy. Better production? Absolutely. Anything after those two albums then I'd have to agree it transcended into a more modernized sound
For anyone reading the comments here that loves this album I recommend you check out an album titled "Gold" by Whores. The Helmet influence is strong with that band.
i don't know if it was weird booking by their label or what but i remember in college seeing Helmet 3 times in 3 months with the first two times as them as the opening band.
Haha that's so awesome! Maybe they were touring a lot to try and get more exposure? 3 times in 3 months is quite a bit. That's really cool you got to see them that many times though!
you still gotta do far beyond driven , great southern trendkill and reinventing the steel by pantera. fun fact, far beyond driven is the heaviest album still to this day that was number one on the billboard charts. my guess it was because vulgar display of power was so good it turned many people on to the band
YESSSS I've got some more Pantera coming your way! My Far Beyond Driven reaction is filmed, should be up on the channel soon. Spoiler alert I loved every second, I didn't think Pantera could go heavier than Vulgar Display Of Power but they proved me wrong 🤯
I'll have to consider doing some newer album reactions in the future, for some reason I'm always drawn to the earlier stuff. It's also generally more suggested because its been out for longer so more people recommend the older stuff in the comments. I haven't heard that much released this year so far, I usually dive deeper into this year's releases when I make my year-end favorites video in December. I always have a lot of catching up to do at the end of the year, haha!
This is considered their MO, though Betty (their next album) is their highest charting. Also, random question: How do you decide which album on your list you want to react to? Is it a matter of mood or just mixing it up?
I'll definitely have to get to a Betty reaction as well! And it's mostly a combo of the ones that seem to be the most suggested, or just the bands that seem the most intriguing to me. It's kind of random to be honest 😆
I’m not underselling how important this album is to me when I say this: _Meantime_ helped keep me alive during some stressful years in college circa 1992-1993.
I am glad you made it through. The power music has is amazing ❤️❤️ And yes this album is incredible, I'm so glad that I finally got around to hearing it!
John Stanier's snare sound in the 90s is what I measure all other snares from, for all time.
This is one of my favorite alternative metal albums, such killer groove driven riffs with tons of hardcore and industrial influences
Such a great choice for a favorite! This album is absolutely killer, so much punchiness and like you pointed out I love the industrial tones that they lean into.
@chrys Checkout The Mark of Cain - This is This. Aussie band with Helmet vibes and this album is when John Stainer joined on drums. Great grooves too.
@@mollyesanborn
Jane's Addiction
"Nothing's Shocking"
"Ritual de lo Habitual"
You should most definitely review these albums.
@themetalpig7613 i've listened to Mark of Cain, and I liked them, but they didn't have that certain groove that Helmet had
@@williamabbott9437 COMING UP THE MOUNTAIN!!!!
Helmet is so underrated. Their influence on heavy music is undeniable.
Absolutely, such a talented band that knows how to blend so many elements together perfectly.
So underrated they could not tour this year from lack of ticket sales
In the Meantime lives rent-free in my head.
Another instant click. This album has so much influence over most 90s heavy rock. It doesn't get nearly enough credit.
Yes Helmet is an incredible band, I wouldn't have ever heard of them without some people in the comments suggesting I give them a listen. I'm so thankful to have finally heard some of their music, because I'm hooked!
You should give Betty, the follow up, a spin. A totally different feel, but also amazing!
Saw them with Melvins back in the late 90s. Small venue in Dallas that doesn't exist anymore, probably around 20 feet from band, ears rang for three days afterwards. They played In The Meantime as the last song of encore.
Wow, that must've been a wild experience! I'm not at all surprised you said your ears were ringing for days after. They certainly know how to pack a punch with their music.
@@mollyesanborn
The Pixies
First 5 albums, but especially
"Surfer Rosa"
"Doolittle"
Those with Jane's Addiction's
"Nothing's Shocking"
"Ritual de lo Habitual"
Are four of the most important albums of the 80's (Ritual 1990) that gave birth to the Alternative/Indie scene in the early 90's.
Oh and Sonic Youth's
"Sister"
"Daydream Nation"
"Goo".
Gotta Gotta Gotta.
Please and Thank You Molly.
90's era Helmet is outstanding! Definitely recommend digging into the follow up to this record, Betty. Wilma's Rainbow, I Know, Milquetoast, Tic and Speechless are some all time great Helmet tracks. Also if you're a Helmet fan and digging around this era of alt metal and hardcore, Quicksand is a must listen. Their first two records Slip and Manic Compression are undeniable classics that I feel like never really received the love and attention they deserved.
I'll definitely plan on getting to a Betty reaction as well, can't wait to hear it! And Quicksand has been suggested a couple of times now, I'll have to look into them.
@@mollyesanbornQuicksand is dope
@@mollyesanborn Heck yeah! If you like Helmet, you should def react to Quicksand, Handsome, and Orange 9MM as well.
Saw these guys supporting Ministry back in the 90's and they totally blew them away. Still love them to this day 👍
John stainer is the most underrated drummer of all time, he is never mentioned… but in Betty he shines even more
Yes their drummer is so fantastic!
The first real concert I went to was Ministry, Sepultura and Helmet at MLG. I had never heard of Helmet at the time. after the first song, I looked at my friend and said "I need this album". I found the album the next day and it is still in my rotation to this day. 🤘🤘
Helmet are insurpassable. I have listened to literally thousands of albums across dozens of genres, but I think they might be my favourite band of all time. The drums are unique, the bass is unique, the guitars are unique. No one else sounds like them. Then on top of that they have that raw underproduced live sound to their albums. The moment you hear them you know it can only be Helmet. Most importantly, as well as their technical abilities, they are absolutely unreal songwriters.
Such a fantastic comment, I completely agree about their uniqueness. I really can't peg Helmet's sound down, they certainly utilize elements of nu metal, industrial, punk, but they push so far beyond falling into just one of those categories. They're such a unique band and I'm so glad to finally be discovering their music!
@@mollyesanborn I agree on this. I've told friends Helmet are awesome, but when they asked what genre they are, I just kinda sat there confused at what to say. I kinda concluded that they're kinda doing their own thing 😄Someone said "that's weird", but weird can sometimes be good because it can mean unique and unusual.
@@DamienNeverwinterthey typically got lumped into post hardcore with Quicksand and others like that. .
Please check out their album "Betty". You won't be disappointed.
I'm looking forward to hearing it!
My fav. Helmet record...for sure 🙂
meantime is better, but betty is great
One of my all time favorite albums. It still sounds as fresh and modern as it did when it was released. It’s a progressive metal classic by a band at the peak of their talent and songwriting.
One of the most influential bands of the 90s.Unsung is my favourite from the album
You should listen to one of Helmet's later albums after after Page Hamilton revives the project (he's the only original member.) "Seeing Eye Dog" is one of my favorite albums ever.
From the Helmet 2.0 era "Seeing Eye Dog" is my favorite too. It's pretty underrated and not so popular among Helmet fans (?), don't know why, I think it's a pretty good album (except "Morphing"). Somewhere someone wrote "its production is so baaad"... well could be, luckily I don't care about such bs.
Absolute classic album...these guys and Prong definitely paved the way for Deftones and their ilk...Page Hamilton's solos sound like a horse getting slapped on its ass and running wild n out of control. Prong's 'Beg To Differ' album you def need to check out as well.
Love this album! Another great reaction. Jane’s Addiction- Nothing’s Shocking hopefully soon!
Yes, such a fantastic record from Helmet! And I've got Jane's Addiction on my list to check out as well, thanks for the suggestion :)
@@mollyesanborn Jane's Addiction kicks some serious ass
@@mollyesanborn You sholud check Ritual de lo Habitual by Jane's. That's them at their best.
This is such a good album! Been waiting for more Helmet reactions and this didn't disappoint. I can't wait for you to hear Betty. It's my favorite Helmet album and it's their most experimental but strongest release imo. You should definitely check out the 2010 expanded edition which features 3 bonus tracks! i can send you that version if you can't find it!
The band that is entirely power riffs, Page Hamilton is a legendary writer. Chevelle is a prime example of this as they noted Helmet as direct influencers. Page said in an interview some time ago that “In The Meantime” is one of the hardest songs to perform because of the timing of the guitars and singing he does at the same time. But look up any live performance and you’ll see him handling it like a boss.
Unsung was introduced to a lot of us through Guitar Hero all the way back in the original one.
I can imagine that was a very fun song to play along to!
Grand Theft Auto San Andreas too.
Madden 10 for me
I knew Helmet long before GTA SA came out therefore was very glad to hear Unsung regularly on "Radio X" while speeding through the areas like a maniac. 😄
I wore this tape out back in the day. What a great sound. Great live shows, too.
The East coast’s answer to grunge of the early 90’s. Can’t wait to see a Betty reaction, their best work. Favorite song from them and very underrated as well, “Like I Care”
Betty is their best album
WOW! This is really a DEEP '90s cut.
Betty is my favorite album by Helmet. Size Matters is a great one, too. Check out Unsane, Human Impact, Spotlights, Melvins & Jesus Lizard, too.
I used to play this album on repeat while playing NHL 94 on sega genesis ( mega drive) good times.
Another awesome reaction. Love that you cover entire albums.
Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed the video! 😊
TERRIBLY unrated band. They had such an influence on bands in the 90s n beyond, and they never get their due credit. 💙 🤘
YES, I only heard of Helmet because they had been suggested in the comments on some of my other videos. I'm so glad to have discovered their music, they're such a talented band!
This album and Betty are easily Helmet's best albums. Page Hamilton has a way with hard-hitting, yet catchy staccato riffs. I've listened to this album as well as Betty so many times and never get tired of them.
He's a master musician, that's for sure. I'll definitely have to give Betty a listen as well!
Unsung was the only Helmet song I knew of. Great track.
Unsung was always such a big hit at their concerts. Great band.
John Stanier's drumming is DIVINE. Once he said that he never used a double bass pedal ... with that fact in mind listen to some songs again and give attention to his footwork (e.g. Repetition, Rollo, Birth Defect, FBLA & II, Just Another Victim, ... ) - just incredible! Everyone who ever played drums in their live (or tried to learn it) knows what I mean. 😉
good stuff Molly. I first heard these guys on MTv Headbangers Ball back in '92 and soon after picked up this CD.
Fantastic live. I used "Unsung" to pump me up before BMX races back in the day but still on my driving playlist.
Whoop! Patiently waited months for you to get round to this one, there's another shift in style for their following album (without losing the key Helmet sound) so it'll be interesting to have your comparison after that.
I often feel like there's a freeform Jazz element to parts of Meantime, strange as it may sound. Jazz often requires that super tight nature between the musicians but also gives massive freedoms for each instrument to wander off during a song together. The guitars on this album frequently do this.
It's possible I mentioned this on a few of your other comments section, may I recommend adding Gallows - Grey Britain to your ever growing list. It is an album with a dark soul & raw anger yet utterly compelling as a complete album piece. I also don't think you have fully taken a dive into Hardcore Punk as a genre yet either so it could be a new lane to explore.
Thanks so much for waiting, I know it took me way too long to get to this album. I'm so glad that I've heard it now, Helmet really poured soooooo much energy into this thing, it's incredible. I'm excited to hear Betty along with the rest of their albums and see what I'll think of their progression as a band. And I will make sure that Gallows is on my list, thanks :)
@@mollyesanborn Betty is the most catchiest album in the Helmet catalogue, I would say but we shall see what your opinion is when you get to it.
Yay! One of my fave albums back in the day. Such a super tight rhythm section as you did well to pick up on with the punchiness especially with the odd time signature. The improvement from Strap it On is like light & day. Betty & Aftertaste are also amazing albums. After that...mehh..due to line up changes..lol
Yeah I thought Strap It On was a great debut for them, loved their sound, but boy did they absolutely bring it with Meantime! They polished up everything perfectly without losing any of that rawness from their first record. I'll definitely have to do more of their albums and see what I'll think of their progression as a band.
This album ruled the world I lived in for years. I once played the whole album on drums at a party. I had every fill memorized.
Air drummer's dream!!
Such an addictive album.. The snare drum is the highlight. Thanks Molly.. Sepultura, Arise 🤘🏻🤘🏻
I can attest to the addictiveness... I loved this album with one listen but it has continued to grow on me even more since filming the video. And I'll have to keep more Sepultura in mind for the future :)
Prong is another underrated band in the same vein and style, "Cleansing" is their strongest album in my opinion. They were very influential but still never got the success they deserved. And they still put out great albums today.
Hmm I'll have to look into them! Thank you for the suggestion :)
@@mollyesanborn No prob! They were one of the main influences for Pantera to get more heavy after their glam phase and the frontman Tommy Victor also played with Ministry for a while. Their debut "Force Fed" was a mix between thrash and hardcore but they quickly moved to a slower, more groove oriented sound. Beg to Differ was played on MTV but the fourth album "Cleansing" introduced some industrial vibes to the mix and for me it's just a perfect album that I listen to again and again.
I would definitely like to hear you listen to and comment on Betty. It is the album's 30th anniversary!
Another good video, Molly! Thank you for continuing to offer up a variety of different artists and bands for your loving viewers!
I will definitely have to get to a Betty reaction in the future, I'm looking forward to hearing it. And thanks so much for the support, I appreciate it and am happy you're enjoying the videos :)
I vote you react to Breaking Benjamin - We are not alone. There are so many styles in that album you will appreciate and enjoy, especially since you enjoy tool / other rock bands. Breaking Benjamin is an absolutely fantastic band and they deserve love! Maybe saturate also, Saturate is a very unique album in BB's discography.
Thanks for the recommendation! I know some others have suggested Breaking Benjamin to me as well, I'll have to check their music out.
YES!!!!!!!!!! Just saw them in concert a few weeks ago! FBLA II has one of the best drum solos!
Absolutely, their drummer is such a powerhouse! This whole record is so dang catchy but intensely aggressive at the same time. I don't know how they do it but Helmet bridges the gap between smooth rhythm and sharp intensity so well. I bet they were amazing to see live!
@@mollyesanborn their my top 5 favorite live band! They have a different drummer, but he’s just as good! The drums sounded amazing at the show!
Yes! Finally some Helmet. Can't wait when you get the chance to listen to the Betty album and Aftertaste album. Great reaction! 👍🏻
Thanks for your patience! It took me wayyyy too long to get to this album, but man did it impress me. Helmet is a superb band and I am very excited to give Betty and Aftertaste a listen as well.
Strap it On was relatively unknown but a decent debut for them. This album really broke them, particularly the single and video for Unsung (back when MTV played music). It's a great album that still doesn't get old. Betty is good and so is Aftertaste. After that, they kind of change their sound and that's where their fanbase really divides.
I'll have to give the music video for Unsung a watch! And yeah I'm intrigued to hear more from them and continue on with their albums.
I love Unsung. Around that time there low-key was a trend of "start/stop" in alternative rock and also "loud-quiet-loud" lol
a toast for the Pixies for that beauty
I want you to react on 311's discography one of my favorite bands, their music could be very interesting to see your reaction with all the styles they blend.
I suggest you the self titled also called the "blue album" from 1995 because it's their most successful one but at least any of the first 4 albums (Music, Grassroots, self-titled and Transistor) could be great to see you react as well!
Great video reaction, classic album!
I have 311 on my list of bands to check out, I'm looking forward to hearing them! :)
That's funny. 311 and Helmet were my two favorite bands all through my late teens and early 20's. 311 just released a new song the other day. It's pretty good.
Fantastic album. Glad to see you reviewed it. I have two album recommendations, both of which are by Melvins: Houdini and Stoner Witch. The first is more heavy on the "sludge" side. I think you'd really enjoy both of them and would love to know your thoughts.
Thank you so much for the suggestions! I'd love to give Melvins a whirl soon, I know they've been recommended a bit in the comments.
Helmet - Like I care
Is my favorite track from them. Do more Pantera 🤘🏻🤘🏻
I'm looking forward to hearing it once I get to Aftertaste! And yes, more Pantera coming sooner rather than later... ;)
Haven't listened to this in quite awhile, and never caught it before, but the beginning of "in the meantime" really sounds like Korn's "clown". I know they are a huge influence on them....but man oh man 😅
Ooh I can totally hear that similarity now that you point it out! It's very clear listening to this record that Helmet was such an influential band on the wave of rock/metal bands that would follow them.
Their next album "Betty" is a masterpiece. The following album "Aftertaste" is the most accessible and commercial sounding. One of my favorite bands. Thanks!
I can see why Helmet is one of your favorite bands, I am absolutely loving their music so far. I'm looking forward to hearing Betty and Aftertaste as well!
Milqetoast is my favorite song by Helmet. I love this channel, and your knowledge and intelligence is admirable. Would love to see your review of Betty. And more FNM/Bungle too. I feel like they inspired bands like Helmet.
In the meantime is one of the greatest tunes of all time. Also, great album.
You need to watch Beavis & Butt-head commenting on the music video for "Unsung." It's hilarious!
This is a great album, but their 3rd record "Betty" is my favorite of theirs. And I know it's an unpopular opinion, but "Aftertaste" (their 4th album) is excellent as well. I played Aftertaste in my car for years in the late 90s/early 00's.
I will definitely plan on reactions for both Betty and Aftertaste as well! Looking forward to hearing them :)
Agreed, Aftertaste and Betty are great albums.
One of my favorite shows ever Ministry, Helmet, and Sepultura 1992! The pit was intense.
Hell yeah! That show was great!
i saw that tour as well ! SEPULTURA playing NA*I PUNKS F#CK OFF for their set ender
What an incredible lineup! That must've been a wild show to experience.
Page Hamilton is riff producing machine. Helmet is one of the most underrated contributors of what would become Nu metal. Can't wait for your reaction to Betty (my personal favorite Helmet album).
I lost the tip of my pinky at their concert on the Betty tour. No Doubt was the opener. They sucked.
Yes he is amazing!! I'll definitely have to do a Betty reaction as well :)
@@theivory1 This sounds like a story worth telling.
Molly! My hero! You did Meantime! One of the seminal albums of my teenage years. This band seemed to be exasperated with Generation X in this album, and I ate it up. I saw them live at a tiny venue with Faith No More in late 1992/early 1993 (the Angel Dust era). I had never heard them before, and I was sold. Turned Out is my favorite song by them. “High Times/hard times/Downtown Julie Brown” is the chorus, and it refers to a magazine, High Times, which is about cannabis culture, and Downtown Julie Brown was an MTV Video Jockey. In other words, the kids were getting high and watching the tube. This album seems to me to say, for the forty or fifty minutes that it runs for, that SOMETHING is wrong, whatever it may be. It made me angry. It tapped into my anger. But it tapped into an anger about the complacency of my peers, and it made me want to do better. I have them to thank for that. That show btw might have been the best show I’ve ever seen given it was the Angel Dust tour which is a top 3 ever album for me. And to top it off, I got blown away by Helmet who opened the show. Those were the days. The early 90’s were a great time for me. Oh to be 16 again and to have your whole life in front of you. Definitely check out Betty. It’s another classic. Helmet recently released an album called Left which is really good too. It’s political somewhat though, so I don’t know if you would want to go there. Thanks again, Molly! Another wonderful surprise reaction in the morning for me to discover!
I loved reading your comment, thank you so much for taking the time to share. That concert you were at sounds amazing! Faith No More AND Helmet?! What a lineup, the early 90's must have been an incredible time to be a young adult going to all of the shows of these bands that were just getting started in their careers. I'm glad you pointed out Turned Out in particular, that is I think my favorite off of this record as well! Such a punchy track but that amazing rhythm makes it so incredibly catchy. I'll definitely plan on doing a Betty reaction in the future as well (I will try not to make y'all wait another year before another Helmet reaction, haha!)
@@mollyesanborn cool, Molly. Take care!
I saw that one in Columbus Ohio, and to date it is still one of my favorite shows. It was my first day of college in Aug. or Sep. 92. Helmet was so raw it set a great tone that Faith No More finished out with their broad sound base.
@@jonathanmolihan9968 mine was in Baltimore, MD
The Riffs out of this album and Pantera's First Two albums definitely birthed the riffage of the Entire Nu metal generation.
Pantera and Helmet certain don't hold back, do they? I absolutely LOVE the punchiness of this record.
@@mollyesanborn their music feels like a punch to the face that wakes you up!
@@Malum09 haha yeah, spot on!
Yeah good call, definitely Pantera influenced Nu Metal, but you're right Helmet definitely too. And Faith No More I'd say.
@@themetalpig7613 I say the biggest inspirations for the genre were: FNM, Primus, Mr. Bungle, Ministry, Pantera, Helmet & RATM. Several other artists also might have been influential to it but in my opinion these are the main inspirations for the style.
Ahead of their time and much better than what was to come. Very unique band
Another spot on review Molly. If you like this take a look at the band Quicksand. Another kick ass east coast hardcore band.
Glad you enjoyed the video! A few others have mentioned Quicksand as well, I'll definitely have to check them out.
Hi Molly, I enjoyed your reaction to Helmet. I have never heard of them, the music sounds like rock music from the early 00’s
Thanks for watching! I hope you enjoy getting into Helmet's music as well, they've got such a unique sound and I'm excited to hear more from them.
GOAT album
Finally!!! Is great to see you react to this, but... I really want your show reacting to the Betty álbum ❤
Thanks for watching! I'll definitely plan on doing a video for Betty as well.
Okay so next, you really need to check out Poison the Well. Another superb 90's early 2000's band that often gets overlooked. Their album "Tear from the Red" is legendary!
I think the first time I heard of Helmet was on the original Jon Stewart show. Unsung is definitely my favorite off Meantime. I'm looking forward to hearing your reaction to the album Betty, as well. That album is so heavy.
Unsung is such a fantastic track! And yes I'll have to plan on a Betty reaction as well, I'm looking forward to hearing it.
loving that raw, unpolished sound helmet's. Love it watching you commenting all these great records.
I really recommand you The downward spiral by Nine inch nails. A groundbreaking Industrial music.
Yes, I absolutely love their raw sound as well! Such a great band, I'm glad to finally be getting into more of Helmet's music. And I've actually already heard The Downward Spiral, I did a Nine Inch Nails album ranking video a few years back on the channel (I will say that it has grown on me much more since making this ranking and I'd now put it much higher in their discography).
ruclips.net/video/QtCtn_IZDy0/видео.htmlsi=QBQgMdwOcG06Ej8X
@@mollyesanborn Good to know. Thx. I'll look for it.
Great album. Thanks for reacting to this. Can’t go wrong with Helmet’s 90s work. I definitely say do their next album Betty next. When it comes to other bands, I’d recommend 311 and Third Eye Blind.
Thanks for the band suggestions, and I'll definitely have to do a reaction for Betty as well!
Helmet é subestimado pra caralho, é uma das minhas bandas favoritas.
Sim, o Helmet é uma banda muito talentosa! Estou feliz por finalmente ouvir a música deles.
You should listen to Behind the Devils Back by Fightstar, genuinely one of the best albums I’ve listened to for a while, think you’d love it
reminder for you to check out love and death (korn guitarist project)
and scars on broadway (soad guitarist second vocalist project)
theyre both amazing, nearly as good as their main bands
Noted, thanks for the reminder! :)
Another vote for Scars on Broadway. Two excellent albums. Daron's great songwriting all over them.
Black Flag is also a legendary punk band that's responsible for Grunge. Killing Joke is, too.
This is a classic, more alt metal than the noise rock of the debut but probably more influential, Betty takes the two and throws in a few more genre's; it gets weird but is still a classic. I think you'd enjoy Quicksand's two 90's albums too, sort of similar but they approach alt metal from the post hardcore side rather than the metal/noise side.
I'm really looking forward to hearing Betty as well! Sounds like it'll be an interesting listen. And I'll make sure that I have Quicksand on my list, thanks for the suggestion :)
Helmet (& Hum too) are great windows into all the post-hardcore & noise rock of the 1990s. Another band from this scene would be Quicksand & their debut “Slip” - takes a Helmet-like sound but it’s got more melodic vocals (plus the bass player Sergio would go on to play on all Deftones albums from Diamond Eyes to Ohms)
Ooh I've gotta do more Hum soon on the channel! Still haven't heard Downward Is Heavenward. And someone else also suggested I give Quicksand a listen, I'll be sure to keep them in mind :)
HUM!!! Great band. I saw them on the second stage at Lollapalooza in 1995. Great discography.
This album is great and a personal favorite, but any guitar riff on it could have been shoved into any other song on the album without blinking. Their next album, Betty, was the first in which each song had its own character. Looking forward to your reaction (assuming you have one).
I will absolutely plan on doing a Betty reaction too, I can't wait to hear it!
Cool, Helmet was my absolute favourite for couple of months back in the day. The year was 1994 when they released 'Betty'
I'll have to give Betty a listen as well. I'm quickly becoming a huge fan of their music.
cant wait for Betty 😄
Me too, I'm looking forward to hearing it!
@@mollyesanborn ☺☺☺
Be sure to check out Big Black/Shellac/Jesus Lizard/Melvins
The Jesus Lizard just got back together. Can you believe David Yow is still alive?
No kidding. From what I hear, they've all cleaned up rather nicely. The single isn't bad!
Molly i love your channel, you need to react to the album Above from Mad season, you will love it
Thanks! Glad you're enjoying the channel. I'd love to hear Mad Season soon, I'll be sure to keep them in mind :)
On my way to work i listened to the full album called Group Therapy by Dope. Such a good album imo. I had not dove deep into them before this. Always assumed they were a 1 or 2 "hit" wonder rock band. If you have ever watched OG fast and the furious, their best song plays during a FBi bust into a house scene. It is not on this album however.
Thanks for the suggestion, I'll have to give Dope a listen sometime!
Yeees great fkn album! Been waiting for this one, love everything about it, from the bass tone to the drum fills to the guitar solos to the riffs it's a banger... If you liked this one you are gonna enjoy Betty too, another album that doesn't really miss it's just well written songs by great musicians
Yep, this album is incredible. It's the perfect example of every component coming together beautifully, each band member shines so brightly on this record. I'm very excited to hear Betty as well.
Great reaction to a great album. Their next album Betty is one you have to check out. They really hit their stride with Betty.
Thanks for watching! I will definitely plan on giving Betty a listen to as well, I'm looking forward to hearing it.
Betty is also a great album. A must listen. Helmet is a very influential band.
If you happen to continue on with this band, do know that their sound gets a tad more poppy after this album.
For any of you who like the band who aren't familiar with the indie label that this album was originally released on, it's called Amphetamine Reptile Records, and there are at least two other bands that I'd highly recommend giving a try sometime. First is a band called Cows. And then we have Hammerhead. Give "Into the Vortex" a spin. It's an all-time banger that almost nobody has ever heard.
I will keep that in mind, I am very curious to hear more of their albums following Meantime. And thanks for the suggestions! I'll make sure to add Cows and Hammerhead to my list.
Mmm I wouldn't consider Betty or Aftertaste to be poppy. Better production? Absolutely. Anything after those two albums then I'd have to agree it transcended into a more modernized sound
For anyone reading the comments here that loves this album I recommend you check out an album titled "Gold" by Whores. The Helmet influence is strong with that band.
Thank you for the suggestion! It is much appreciated, anything in a similar vein to Helmet's style I'll probably really enjoy :)
Really enjoy watching ur reactions
Glad you're enjoying them! :)
Meantime and Betty made a mark on high school aged me. Still dig the hard sharpness of Helmet. Aloha Molly.
Man I've gotta give Betty a listen as well. Helmet is one of those bands that just knows how to deliver on the punchy energy!
i don't know if it was weird booking by their label or what but i remember in college seeing Helmet 3 times in 3 months with the first two times as them as the opening band.
Haha that's so awesome! Maybe they were touring a lot to try and get more exposure? 3 times in 3 months is quite a bit. That's really cool you got to see them that many times though!
you still gotta do far beyond driven , great southern trendkill and reinventing the steel by pantera. fun fact, far beyond driven is the heaviest album still to this day that was number one on the billboard charts. my guess it was because vulgar display of power was so good it turned many people on to the band
YESSSS I've got some more Pantera coming your way! My Far Beyond Driven reaction is filmed, should be up on the channel soon. Spoiler alert I loved every second, I didn't think Pantera could go heavier than Vulgar Display Of Power but they proved me wrong 🤯
As much as I love Meantime and Strap It On, Betty has to be my fav. Aftertaste wasn't bad either. Fun reaction, keep em coming.
Ooh, I'll definitely have to do a Betty reaction as well! I'm looking forward to hearing it.
saw them a couple months ago-still great although now its page and some younger guys filling out the lineup but they def bring it to the stage
I'd definitely love to see them live if I ever get the chance!
You have to check out Refused - The Shape of Punk to Come if you liked this.
Noted, I will make sure that it's on my list :)
Ditto. That album is monumental
Molly, why don't you cover newer albums/releases? I'm curious to knw which 2024 albums are in your shelf rn
I'll have to consider doing some newer album reactions in the future, for some reason I'm always drawn to the earlier stuff. It's also generally more suggested because its been out for longer so more people recommend the older stuff in the comments. I haven't heard that much released this year so far, I usually dive deeper into this year's releases when I make my year-end favorites video in December. I always have a lot of catching up to do at the end of the year, haha!
Because they suck.
Nice reaction, I think you might like the album 'Liar' by The Jesus Lizard, their best one in my opinion. Keep on rocking.
Thanks for the suggestion! I'll make sure that one is on my list.
@@mollyesanborn Thanks.
I know it’s not really up your alley, but I highly recommend Tim Maia’s self titled album from 1973. It’s perfect in my mind
Thank you for the suggestion, I'm willing to give anything a try and I'll make sure to add it to my list :)
Loved it. So fun. I'm here for the B cuppers 😎. Bopilina, you are super fine 😍💗😘
Wow you really can find the fun ones from my high school days. This one is their big hits. Pretty Bipolar album lol. LOVE IT!
Yeah this album is fantastic, Helmet poured so much into this thing!
Always loved this album
It's such a fantastic record, I'm so glad I've finally heard it!
This is considered their MO, though Betty (their next album) is their highest charting.
Also, random question: How do you decide which album on your list you want to react to? Is it a matter of mood or just mixing it up?
I'll definitely have to get to a Betty reaction as well! And it's mostly a combo of the ones that seem to be the most suggested, or just the bands that seem the most intriguing to me. It's kind of random to be honest 😆
The first two records are great.Betty is as well.Your in for a treat.
Yes, I can't wait to hear Betty as well! :)
You absolutely should check Tomahawk!
Noted, I will keep Tomahawk in mind. I think I've heard one of their songs already (Capt Midnight) but nothing else, I'd love to hear more from them!
@@mollyesanborn drummer from Helmet, Mike Patton on vocals
I’m not underselling how important this album is to me when I say this: _Meantime_ helped keep me alive during some stressful years in college circa 1992-1993.
I am glad you made it through. The power music has is amazing ❤️❤️
And yes this album is incredible, I'm so glad that I finally got around to hearing it!