The term "vampire" has become synonymous with dark pop culture. It is used to denote a set ideas and images that invoke vestiges of a darker, less inhibited lifestyle with a gothic sensibility inclusive of a rougher edge and a fascination with death. The word is used as a marketing tool to denote that idea and appeal to those wishing to surround themselves in all things "vampiric". These days the word vampire is used to sell everything from movies, to wines, to condoms, to clothing and card games. All are designed to appeal to the darker subculture associating themselves with the mythical and Hollywood interpretation of the word and its ideals. And while it may be a stereotype, many real vampires find comfort in the imagery of the sub-culture. It tends to be one of the chicken or the egg type paradoxes. Are real vampires buying into successful marketing strategies or is Madison Avenue successfully selling to an already defined sub-culture? My personal interpretation says it probably is a little of both. .
One of the greatest successful areas of marketing has been in "vampire" music. Vampire radio stations and clubs abound. This months review sounds out the basics of vampire radio on the web.
Vampire Radio
This was one of the grand daddies of the vampire / gothic underground sound. Unfortunately it plays no more. After three years of net broadcasting Vampire Radio fell victim to squabbles over stylistic differences. The alternative listed at the old vampire radio website, Got Black, does all the right stuff or at least tries hard. They have the requisite club listings and causes. Backed up with play lists and a statement about their purpose. While not a clone of the late great at least they try.
Second Shifters
While not vampire radio in the classic since Second Shifters walks that fine line. They are not underground, but not commercial not totally vampire but not completely goth or industrial. They tread the fine line well. The sounds here have that comfortable old glow you have heard it before, but not heard it before. It moves in and out of that type of range almost comfortable but not quite.
Bloodlite
The trouble with vampire radio stations is that they are like a good rave. They are transient. That kind of Cheshire Cat type fade where nothing remains but the smile. They fade in an out. Part of that is due to the bandwidth. Vampire radio stations are frequently done for love, not money. So you see them moving from spot to spot, not ever quite establishing a home. Both versions of this station have been dark enough to keep me coming back. But coming back I will have to as of next Tuesday they will go through yet another transformation. But if it has been like the last two then bear with the bumpy ride.
Gothic Radio
This is one of the more successful sites out there for vampire radio. Things are split down category wise and most all will find something to their listening tastes here. There are a number of channels here from Ethereal to Seasonal all with their special charm and seductive sounds. You will spend a lot of time here.
Vampire Freaks
While not real vampires and not freaks ya got to give Jet credit for trying. Vampire Freaks entertains. It has play lists as well as streaming audio and time and time again he finds way to keep the station going. It must be an act of love cause no one could pay him for this. Enjoy.
LA. Judge
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