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Video - 42 Minutes of Intermediate English Listening Comprehension

The Giants of Rock and Roll: The Cure, English Comprehension exercise with 3 types of quizzes

  The Cure is an English rock band formed in Crawley, West Sussex, in 1976. Known for their distinctive sound, characterized by gloomy and introspective lyrics coupled with atmospheric and melodic music, The Cure has become one of the most influential and enduring bands in alternative rock. Here is an overview of The Cure's history:


  1. Formation and Early Years:
    • The Cure was formed by vocalist and guitarist Robert Smith, along with schoolmates Michael Dempsey (bass), Lol Tolhurst (drums), and Porl Thompson (guitar).
    • They initially played under different names and experimented with various musical styles before settling on The Cure.
    • In 1979, they released their debut album, "Three Imaginary Boys," which featured a mix of post-punk and pop elements.
  2. Emergence of the Gothic Sound:
    • With their second album, "Seventeen Seconds" (1980), The Cure began to define their signature sound, characterized by a dark, brooding atmosphere and introspective lyrics.
    • The albums "Faith" (1981) and "Pornography" (1982) further solidified their reputation as pioneers of gothic rock.
  3. Commercial Success and Mainstream Breakthrough:
    • The Cure experienced commercial success with their fourth album, "The Head on the Door" (1985), which featured more accessible and pop-oriented songs.
    • Their follow-up album, "Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me" (1987), and the critically acclaimed "Disintegration" (1989) propelled them to mainstream recognition.
  4. Evolution of Sound and Genre Exploration:
    • The Cure continued to evolve their sound, incorporating elements of new wave, synth-pop, and alternative rock in albums like "Wish" (1992) and "Wild Mood Swings" (1996).
    • Their music embraced a wider range of emotions, from melancholic and introspective to more upbeat and romantic themes.
  5. Enduring Legacy and Continued Success:
    • The Cure's music has had a profound influence on alternative and gothic rock, inspiring numerous bands and artists.
    • They have achieved longevity and continued success with albums like "Bloodflowers" (2000) and "4:13 Dream" (2008) while maintaining a dedicated fan base.
  6. Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame:
    • In 2019, The Cure was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing their significant contributions to the music industry.

The Cure's extensive discography, distinctive style, and emotionally charged lyrics have resonated with fans worldwide. They have consistently pushed artistic boundaries and maintained their artistic integrity, leaving an indelible mark on alternative rock music.

  1. Who is the lead vocalist and guitarist of The Cure?
  2. In which year was The Cure formed?
  3. Which album is often considered the breakthrough and mainstream success for The Cure?
  4. What genre is often associated with The Cure's music?
  5. Which album is considered one of The Cure's darkest and most influential works?
  6. Which song by The Cure became a popular hit and is known for its catchy melody?
  7. Who is the founding member of The Cure and the primary songwriter for the band?
  8. Which album marked The Cure's exploration of more pop-oriented and accessible sound?
  9. What is the title of The Cure's 1989 critically acclaimed album?
  10. Which famous music award did The Cure receive in 2019?
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  1. In which country was The Cure formed? a) United States b) England c) Australia d) Canada
  2. Which album by The Cure is often considered their breakthrough and commercial success? a) "Disintegration" b) "Seventeen Seconds" c) "Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me" d) "Wish"
  3. Who is the lead vocalist and guitarist of The Cure? a) Robert Smith b) Simon Gallup c) Lol Tolhurst d) Michael Dempsey
  4. Which song by The Cure became a popular hit and is known for its catchy melody? a) "Boys Don't Cry" b) "Just Like Heaven" c) "Lovesong" d) "Friday I'm in Love"
  5. Which genre is often associated with The Cure's music? a) Punk rock b) New wave c) Heavy metal d) Country
  6. Who is the founding member and primary songwriter for The Cure? a) Simon Gallup b) Lol Tolhurst c) Robert Smith d) Porl Thompson
  7. Which album is considered one of The Cure's darkest and most influential works? a) "Faith" b) "Pornography" c) "The Head on the Door" d) "Bloodflowers"
  8. What year did The Cure receive induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? a) 2001 b) 2010 c) 2014 d) 2019
  9. Which album marked The Cure's exploration of a more pop-oriented and accessible sound? a) "Three Imaginary Boys" b) "The Top" c) "The Cure" d) "Wild Mood Swings"
  10. Which famous song by The Cure features the opening lyrics "It's Friday, I'm in Love"? a) "Lovesong" b) "A Forest" c) "Close to Me" d) "Friday I'm in Love"
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  1. True/False: The Cure was formed in the United Kingdom.
  2. True/False: The Cure's breakthrough album is titled "Disintegration."
  3. True/False: Robert Smith is the lead vocalist and guitarist of The Cure.
  4. True/False: The Cure is often associated with the genre of punk rock.
  5. True/False: The Cure's song "Just Like Heaven" became a popular hit.
  6. True/False: Simon Gallup is the founding member and primary songwriter of The Cure.
  7. True/False: The album "Pornography" is considered one of The Cure's darkest and most influential works.
  8. True/False: The Cure has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
  9. True/False: The album "Wild Mood Swings" marked The Cure's exploration of a more pop-oriented sound.
  10. True/False: The Cure's song "Friday I'm in Love" features the opening lyrics "It's Thursday, I'm in Love."

The Giants of Rock and Roll: U2, English Comprehension exercise with 3 types of quizzes

  U2 is an Irish rock band that formed in Dublin in 1976. The band consists of Bono (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), The Edge (lead guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums and percussion). U2 is known for their anthemic sound, socially conscious lyrics, and powerful live performances.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, U2 gained popularity in Ireland and the United Kingdom with their debut album, "Boy" (1980), and its follow-up, "October" (1981). However, it was their third album, "War" (1983), that propelled them to international fame. The album's singles, including "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and "New Year's Day," addressed political and social issues and established U2's reputation for their socially conscious songwriting.

U2's breakthrough came with their album "The Joshua Tree" (1987), which became one of the best-selling albums of all time. It featured hits such as "With or Without You," "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For," and "Where the Streets Have No Name." The album's blend of introspective themes and epic soundscapes solidified U2's place as one of the biggest rock bands in the world.

Throughout the 1990s, U2 continued to experiment with their sound and explore new musical territories. The albums "Achtung Baby" (1991) and "Zooropa" (1993) showcased a more alternative and electronic sound. They received critical acclaim and demonstrated the band's ability to reinvent themselves while maintaining their core identity. U2's activism and philanthropy also became prominent during this time, with Bono's involvement in various humanitarian causes.

In the 2000s, U2 released the album "All That You Can't Leave Behind" (2000), which featured the hit singles "Beautiful Day" and "Elevation." The band's sound returned to a more mainstream rock sound, and the album received widespread praise. They followed it up with "How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb" (2004), which won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.

In subsequent years, U2 continued to release new albums and embark on successful tours. Their 2009 album, "No Line on the Horizon," showcased a more experimental and atmospheric sound, while "Songs of Innocence" (2014) and "Songs of Experience" (2017) explored themes of personal reflection and societal issues. The band's concerts continued to be major events, drawing large audiences worldwide.

U2 has been recognized with numerous awards, including 22 Grammy Awards, more than any other band in history. Their music has influenced countless artists and their performances are renowned for their energy and spectacle. With a career spanning several decades, U2 remains an iconic and enduring presence in the world of rock music.

  1. Where and when was U2 formed?
  2. Who are the members of U2?
  3. What is the title of U2's debut album?
  4. Can you name any of U2's most famous songs?
  5. Which U2 album won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year?
  6. What is the significance of U2's album "The Joshua Tree"?
  7. U2 is known for their politically and socially conscious lyrics. Can you provide an example of a U2 song with strong social or political themes?
  8. What is the name of U2's lead vocalist?
  9. U2 is renowned for their live performances. Can you mention any notable tours or concerts they have done?
  10. How has U2's music and career evolved over the years?
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  1. In which year was U2 formed? a) 1976 b) 1978 c) 1980 d) 1982
  2. Which member of U2 is the lead vocalist? a) Bono b) The Edge c) Adam Clayton d) Larry Mullen Jr.
  3. What is the title of U2's debut album? a) The Joshua Tree b) Boy c) War d) Achtung Baby
  4. Which U2 song became their breakthrough hit single? a) "With or Without You" b) "Sunday Bloody Sunday" c) "Pride (In the Name of Love)" d) "One"
  5. Which U2 album won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year? a) The Joshua Tree b) Achtung Baby c) All That You Can't Leave Behind d) How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb
  6. Which U2 album features the hit singles "Where the Streets Have No Name" and "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For"? a) Rattle and Hum b) The Joshua Tree c) War d) Pop
  7. U2's iconic live album and concert film, capturing their performance at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, is titled: a) Under a Blood Red Sky b) Live at Slane Castle c) Zoo TV Live d) Elevation 2001: Live from Boston
  8. U2's famous song "Beautiful Day" is from which album? a) All That You Can't Leave Behind b) Zooropa c) The Unforgettable Fire d) Pop
  9. What is the title of U2's commercially successful album released in 1987? a) The Joshua Tree b) Boy c) October d) Rattle and Hum
  10. Which U2 song includes the famous lyric "Hello, hello / I'm at a place called Vertigo"? a) "Vertigo" b) "Beautiful Day" c) "With or Without You" d) "One"
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  1. True or False: U2 was formed in Dublin, Ireland.
  2. True or False: The lead guitarist of U2 is Bono.
  3. True or False: U2's album "The Joshua Tree" won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
  4. True or False: U2's song "With or Without You" was released in the 1990s.
  5. True or False: U2 is known for their socially and politically conscious lyrics.
  6. True or False: The bass guitarist of U2 is Larry Mullen Jr.
  7. True or False: U2's album "Achtung Baby" was released in the 1980s.
  8. True or False: U2 performed the halftime show at the Super Bowl in 2002.
  9. True or False: U2's lead vocalist, Bono, is known for his activism and involvement in humanitarian causes.
  10. True or False: U2 has won more than 20 Grammy Awards throughout their career.


The Giants of Rock and Roll: R.E.M., English Comprehension exercise with 3 types of quizzes

 R.E.M. was an American rock band that formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1980. The band initially consisted of lead vocalist Michael Stipe, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and drummer Bill Berry. R.E.M. played a pivotal role in the alternative rock movement of the 1980s and 1990s and became one of the most influential and successful bands of the era.

R.E.M.'s early years saw them gaining popularity in the indie rock scene with their debut album, "Murmur" (1983). The album received critical acclaim for its jangly guitar sound, cryptic lyrics, and Michael Stipe's distinctive vocal style. It established R.E.M.'s unique identity and laid the foundation for their future success.

The band continued to release critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1980s, including "Reckoning" (1984), "Fables of the Reconstruction" (1985), and "Document" (1987). These albums featured songs like "So. Central Rain," "Driver 8," and "The One I Love," which helped R.E.M. develop a dedicated fanbase.

In the early 1990s, R.E.M. achieved mainstream success with their album "Out of Time" (1991), which featured the chart-topping hit "Losing My Religion." The album showcased a more polished sound and incorporated elements of folk rock and pop. It earned R.E.M. several Grammy Awards and established them as a leading band in the alternative rock genre.

R.E.M.'s follow-up album, "Automatic for the People" (1992), further solidified their popularity and critical acclaim. It featured introspective and emotionally resonant songs like "Everybody Hurts" and "Man on the Moon." The album showcased R.E.M.'s ability to craft thoughtful and poignant music while maintaining their alternative rock roots.

Throughout their career, R.E.M. released numerous successful albums, including "Monster" (1994), "New Adventures in Hi-Fi" (1996), and "Up" (1998). They explored different musical styles and experimented with their sound, consistently pushing artistic boundaries.

In 1997, drummer Bill Berry retired from the band due to health issues, but R.E.M. continued as a trio. They released several more albums, including "Reveal" (2001), "Around the Sun" (2004), and "Accelerate" (2008), before officially disbanding in 2011.

R.E.M.'s impact on the music industry is significant. They helped define the sound of alternative rock and influenced countless bands and artists that followed. Their introspective lyrics, melodic sensibilities, and Michael Stipe's enigmatic stage presence made them an iconic and beloved band.

Despite their breakup, R.E.M. left behind a rich musical legacy, and their songs continue to resonate with fans around the world. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, solidifying their place in music history as one of the most influential and successful bands of their time.

  1. When was R.E.M. formed?
  2. Who are the four original members of R.E.M.?
  3. Which album propelled R.E.M. to mainstream success in the early 1990s?
  4. What is the title of R.E.M.'s breakout hit single from the album "Out of Time"?
  5. Which R.E.M. album features the iconic song "Losing My Religion"?
  6. Who was the drummer of R.E.M. before retiring from the band in 1997?
  7. Which R.E.M. album explores introspective and emotionally resonant themes with songs like "Everybody Hurts"?
  8. In what year did R.E.M. officially disband?
  9. R.E.M. is often associated with which musical genre?
  10. Which prestigious music institution inducted R.E.M. into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
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  1. Which year was R.E.M. formed? a) 1978 b) 1980 c) 1982 d) 1985
  2. What is the title of R.E.M.'s breakthrough album? a) Murmur b) Automatic for the People c) Out of Time d) Document
  3. Who was the lead vocalist of R.E.M.? a) Michael Stipe b) Peter Buck c) Mike Mills d) Bill Berry
  4. Which R.E.M. album features the hit single "Losing My Religion"? a) Monster b) Automatic for the People c) Green d) Out of Time
  5. Which member of R.E.M. played the bass guitar? a) Michael Stipe b) Peter Buck c) Mike Mills d) Bill Berry
  6. R.E.M. is often associated with which genre of music? a) Grunge b) Punk c) Alternative rock d) Pop
  7. Which R.E.M. album won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year? a) Automatic for the People b) Document c) Out of Time d) Green
  8. Who retired from R.E.M. in 1997? a) Michael Stipe b) Peter Buck c) Mike Mills d) Bill Berry
  9. What was the last studio album released by R.E.M. before their breakup? a) Monster b) Up c) Reveal d) Accelerate
  10. In which year was R.E.M. inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? a) 2003 b) 2007 c) 2010 d) 2013
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  1. True or False: R.E.M. was formed in Athens, Georgia.
  2. True or False: The lead vocalist of R.E.M. is Peter Buck.
  3. True or False: R.E.M.'s breakthrough album is titled "Out of Time."
  4. True or False: "Losing My Religion" is a hit single by R.E.M.
  5. True or False: R.E.M. is often associated with the alternative rock genre.
  6. True or False: Michael Stipe was the bassist for R.E.M.
  7. True or False: R.E.M. won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year with their album "Monster."
  8. True or False: Bill Berry retired from R.E.M. in 1997.
  9. True or False: R.E.M.'s last studio album before their breakup was titled "Reveal."
  10. True or False: R.E.M. was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

The Giants of Rock and Roll: Metallica, English Comprehension exercise

 Metallica is an American heavy metal band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1981. The band was founded by vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich, who were later joined by lead guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo. Metallica is widely regarded as one of the most influential and successful heavy metal bands of all time.

Metallica's debut album, "Kill 'Em All," was released in 1983, showcasing their aggressive and fast-paced sound. They quickly gained recognition in the underground metal scene and solidified their reputation with their sophomore album, "Ride the Lightning" (1984). The album featured tracks like "For Whom the Bell Tolls" and "Fade to Black," which showcased their musical proficiency and introspective lyrics.

In 1986, Metallica released their breakthrough album, "Master of Puppets." Considered a landmark in heavy metal, the album displayed complex song structures, dark themes, and a powerful blend of melody and aggression. However, tragedy struck the band later that year when their bassist, Cliff Burton, died in a bus accident while on tour in Sweden.

Metallica continued as a three-piece, recruiting Jason Newsted as their new bassist. In 1988, they released "…And Justice for All," an album known for its complex compositions and social commentary. The band's commercial breakthrough came with their self-titled fifth album, commonly known as "The Black Album" (1991). The album featured hits like "Enter Sandman," "Sad But True," and "Nothing Else Matters," and propelled Metallica to mainstream success.

In the 1990s, Metallica faced criticism from some fans for their more accessible sound and the controversy surrounding their legal battle with file-sharing service Napster. Nevertheless, they released albums such as "Load" (1996) and "Reload" (1997), which showcased a more alternative rock-influenced sound. They also collaborated with the San Francisco Symphony for the album "S&M" (1999), blending heavy metal with orchestral arrangements.

In the early 2000s, Metallica returned to their heavier roots with the album "St. Anger" (2003). The album featured a raw and aggressive sound, reflecting the band's internal struggles at the time. They continued to release new music and evolve their sound with albums like "Death Magnetic" (2008) and "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct" (2016).

Metallica's live performances are renowned for their energy and intensity. They have headlined major festivals and embarked on successful world tours, solidifying their status as one of the most powerful live acts in rock music. The band has received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

With their iconic riffs, powerful songwriting, and influential presence, Metallica has left an indelible mark on the heavy metal genre. They continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians and remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock and metal.

Here are ten questions about Metallica:

  1. Who are the current members of Metallica?
  2. In what year was Metallica formed?
  3. What was Metallica's debut studio album?
  4. Which Metallica album features the song "Enter Sandman"?
  5. Who is Metallica's lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist?
  6. Which album earned Metallica their first Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance?
  7. Metallica faced controversy in the early 2000s due to their legal battle with which file-sharing service?
  8. What was the title of Metallica's documentary film released in 2004?
  9. Which Metallica album is known for its raw and aggressive sound and features the single "St. Anger"?
  10. Metallica collaborated with which symphony orchestra for the album "S&M"?

Answers to the questions about Metallica, Giants of Rock and Roll

 Here are the answers to the questions about Metallica:

  1. The current members of Metallica are James Hetfield (vocals, rhythm guitar), Lars Ulrich (drums), Kirk Hammett (lead guitar), and Robert Trujillo (bass).
  2. Metallica was formed in 1981.
  3. Metallica's debut studio album is titled "Kill 'Em All" (1983).
  4. The song "Enter Sandman" is featured on Metallica's self-titled album, commonly known as "The Black Album" (1991).
  5. James Hetfield is Metallica's lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist.
  6. Metallica won their first Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance with the album "Metallica," also known as "The Black Album" (1991).
  7. Metallica faced controversy in the early 2000s due to their legal battle with the file-sharing service Napster.
  8. The title of Metallica's documentary film released in 2004 is "Metallica: Some Kind of Monster."
  9. The album known for its raw and aggressive sound, featuring the single "St. Anger," is also titled "St. Anger" (2003).
  10. Metallica collaborated with the San Francisco Symphony for the album "S&M" (1999).

The Giants of Rock and Roll: Nirvana, English Comprehension exercise

  Nirvana was an American rock band formed in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987. The band originally consisted of Kurt Cobain (vocals, guitar), Krist Novoselic (bass), and Dave Grohl (drums). They were one of the most influential bands of the 1990s, often credited with popularizing and shaping the grunge movement.

Nirvana's breakthrough came with the release of their second album, "Nevermind," in 1991. The album featured their iconic hit single "Smells Like Teen Spirit," which propelled the band to mainstream success and became an anthem for a generation. "Nevermind" is considered one of the greatest rock albums of all time, and its raw and powerful sound captured the disillusionment and angst of the era.

Following the success of "Nevermind," Nirvana released their third and final studio album, "In Utero," in 1993. The album showcased a darker and more abrasive sound, with Cobain's introspective and often cryptic lyrics delving into personal struggles and societal issues. Despite the album's critical acclaim, tensions within the band grew, and Cobain tragically died by suicide in April 1994.


Nirvana's impact on the music scene was profound, as they brought alternative rock and grunge into the mainstream. Their raw and emotionally charged music, coupled with Cobain's introspective songwriting, resonated with a generation and left an indelible mark on the rock landscape.

The band's influence extended beyond their music, with Cobain becoming an icon for his authenticity and refusal to conform to traditional norms. Nirvana's success paved the way for other grunge bands and alternative rock acts to achieve commercial success.

Even decades after their formation and Cobain's passing, Nirvana's music continues to be celebrated and their impact is still felt. Their songs, such as "Come As You Are," "Lithium," and "Heart-Shaped Box," remain beloved classics, and their legacy as one of the defining bands of the 1990s endures.

Nirvana was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, solidifying their status as one of the most influential and revered bands in rock history. Though their time together was tragically cut short, their music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide, leaving an everlasting impact on the world of rock and alternative music.

Here are ten questions about Nirvana:

  1. Who were the members of Nirvana?
  2. Which city did Nirvana originate from?
  3. What was Nirvana's breakthrough album?
  4. Who was the lead vocalist and guitarist of Nirvana?
  5. What were some of Nirvana's most famous songs?
  6. Which Nirvana album featured the hit single "Smells Like Teen Spirit"?
  7. Who was Nirvana's drummer?
  8. In what year did Nirvana release their final studio album?
  9. What was the title of Nirvana's MTV Unplugged album?
  10. Sadly, Nirvana disbanded after the death of their lead singer. What was his name?

Answers to the questions about Nirvana, Giants of Rock and Roll

 

Here are the answers to the questions about Nirvana:

  1. The members of Nirvana were Kurt Cobain (lead vocals, guitar), Krist Novoselic (bass guitar), and various drummers, with Dave Grohl being the most notable.
  2. Nirvana originated from Aberdeen, Washington, in the United States.
  3. Nirvana's breakthrough album was "Nevermind" (1991).
  4. Kurt Cobain was the lead vocalist and guitarist of Nirvana.
  5. Some of Nirvana's most famous songs include "Smells Like Teen Spirit," "Come As You Are," "Lithium," and "Heart-Shaped Box."
  6. "Smells Like Teen Spirit" was featured on Nirvana's album "Nevermind."
  7. The drummer for Nirvana was Dave Grohl, who later formed the Foo Fighters.
  8. Nirvana released their final studio album, "In Utero," in 1993.
  9. The title of Nirvana's MTV Unplugged album is "MTV Unplugged in New York."
  10. The lead singer of Nirvana was Kurt Cobain, who tragically passed away in 1994.