It's like he's revived some medieval art...a story-telling style we dared to forget. I feel every dirty city had minstrels like this. Ren is a master conduit for things not discussed openly enough in my 52 years.
Is anyone else having trouble getting their friends/family etc. to connect with Ren? I’m thankful for this community, and that my eyes are open and not one of the sheep in the middle, asleep. Cheers
I made some of my kids watch today. They just thought it was weird. Fortunately my bf loves REN as much as I do. We have his album on repeat in the car.
I’m so glad you picked up on the conscious decision to leave certain background noises in. I feel this get overlooked a lot. They are very deliberate to draw us in 👏👏
In your HI REN reaction, which also caught you by surprise, you led off with comments about bravery and authenticity (on the part of the artist) and expectation (on the part of the listener/viewer). At some point in my life, I came to realize that I'd been holding an expectation only when it was violated. Since then, it''s become almost a joy when I notice those violations and attendant aha's. I've never encountered an individual who provides more of those aha's than Ren, who always surprises. By now, you and I and many others are months into these treasured Ren joys, and community has formed around that, along with the sufferings, copings, and healings that are essential to the human condition. I didn't mean to say much more than a deep thank-you, Chase, but I trust you understand.
A Bard, a poet, a Troubadour, a Wandering Minstrel, a Thespian. Yes, as you say, he must be protected. Bringing back the sounds of Medieval times. I can't wait 'till he does a performance of this type of music actually playing a Lute.
And from an interview I heard this all came from Ren hearing a news story about a 14 yr old prostitute who was stabbed to death and his mind built this around that. Yes Jenny was a street walker I mean how many 14 year old girls do you know that are walking around in the middle of the night in high heels. Screeches girlfriend and best friend Patrick were together fooling around. Both of them had been in foster care seeing as though their mother was gone and their father was going to jail. And no way the courts let them go to her parents after they had to remove Violet from the house at 16. Violet and Jenny were very much alike quiet and not protective of themselves and Screech and Stevie and even Violets dad were all violent abusers. Weird how that happens
Your thoughtful, considered, response to Ren's music has made your reactions some of my favourites. Ren's storytelling is exceptional. He cried when he saw how many reactions there were to his new song on his birthday yesterday, so I hope you know how much the support of reactors means to him. (Someone clipped that section of his livestream: th-cam.com/video/FKU9DbaIYos/w-d-xo.html) I think you'd appreciate the songs he did with Chinchilla: How to be Me (live) was written about his best friend who lost his life to suicide. And Chalk Outlines (live) is also a very raw and beautiful song. Both are more melodic than Hi Ren and the Trilogy of Tales, and give you another side of him as a performer. Money Game pt1 is cinematic and profound, with pt2 being blunter and less interperative but still very honest. Sick Boi tackles mental health and other themes in a grungier, rappier way that is still very different to anything else out there. If you'd like something more joyful from him then his band (The Big Push) have some uplifting things like It's Alright, Praise You, or the busking session I Shot the Sherrif/Rd to Zion/Hip Hop. There is so much to explore, and it would be interesting to hear your thoughts on whichever facet of his work intrigues you the most.
This god damn storytelling man! Maybe it’s weird, but beginning of violets tale, ren gets up and does a shake. I felt that. I used to do that all the time in theatre to get into character
Honestly when the line "twin lay side by side" my brain Instant went back to the line "jenny and screech lay 1 street apart" and dots connected and when ren confrimed it my heart sank.
I genuinely like your calm and analytic way of reacting. However, even though you might not express too many emotions verbally, I could definitely see in your facial expressions how much this was emotionally affecting you. Thank you for sharing this moment!
I listened to this yesterday for the first time, but only after watching this now, did I actually catch the ending properly. That completely passed me by the first time somehow. It’s been said thousands of times, but here we go.. I’m an old metal head who rarely ventures out of that genre.. But this guy is something special.. a true storyteller. A Bard of modern times.
My favourite Ren is Crutch (with Bibi). He wrote it 6 years ago before he had the Lyme's diagnosis and was really struggling with his health. (both mental and physical.) It is a completely different side to him.
I get a Shakespearian vibe from this it has this strong tragedy feel to it. I love this so much its awakened a feeling of something very old and forgotten yet modern and relevant.
Wow. That was an incredible reaction. You can see the various emotions going across your face in the harrowing last lines of Violet’s tale. Just before the final sucker punch to the gut! I fell down the Rabbit hole when I, like you, experienced “Hi Ren” for the first time a few months ago and my brain exploded (I have MS, anxiety and depression.). This one song resonated in every fibre of my being. It took me a couple of days to fully process that this young man (I’m 56) in under 3 minutes both musically blew me away and gave a voice to my inner struggles) Then I did a TH-cam search for Ren and stumbled across “The Trilogy”! Clicked on the full version and I was drawn into the genius that is Ren Gill. I’d recommend Money Game parts one and two next. Just incredible. Or yesterday (Ren’s birthday) his latest track “Illest of Our Time” (also incredible.)went live. Oh, or “Chalk Outlines (I don’t think I need to repeat myself lol) where he duets with Chinchilla! Either way you have many wonders to discover. Ren is truly a rare talent. I haven’t been this exited by an act since I saw AC/DC live in a small 2500 seat venue a long, long time ago. I was just passing through but I think I’ll stick around. Now to watch your “Hi Ren” reaction. 🏴🤘🏻 P.S. Welcome to the RENaissance.
Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and also for comment with such kind words. Really appreciate it. Ren is beyond special and I’m so incredibly lucky to share my journey with you all. Thank you 🙏
@@DukeOfTwist Edinburgh Playhouse, Scotland. 😎🤘🏻 Unfortunately it was after the Passing of the great Bon Scott but Brian Johnson paid tribute to the great man during the gig.
@@DukeOfTwist That must have been pretty awesome. Best rock band to ever take to the stage. I only got to see them that one time unfortunately but damn what a show! Brian Johnson strode past me with Angus Young on his shoulders playing one of his famous extended solos. Angus was (and still is) a true rock god!
I’m 67 and his music is probably, no definitely, the best I’ve heard, I have music from just about every genre in my collection, everything is so special, his duets with Chinchilla are magical and his band, The Big Push, wonderful, I’d suggest you try them all
You can tell how he and his Team got better and better from one to the next. Jenny is him as a Bard, busking on the Street. In Screech the play with surroundings and Camerawork starts. Violet.... i mean, it's pure Art. In every aspect
Like many I suppose, my first exposure to Ren's work was "Hi Ren". Now seeing this, the kid has one hell of a musical vision doesn't he? Here's hoping he and his vision can finally break through.
Man I went through a rollercoaster of flashbacks and emotions with this musical story. I Haven’t lived that kind of life for over 20 years now but it came back so clear.
I say it's time to have your mind blown in a fun upbeat way. Check out "The Hunger", "Losing It", and "What You Want" and after that check out him with his band The Big Push specifically doing their cover of "I shot the sheriff". Limitless talent this guy has.
Hey - popping by because I've been enjoying your Ren reactions that I've been bingeing over the last week (instead of doing productive stuff 🙄) really enjoyed this. I hope you know we do appreciate you. Much love ❤
What I love about Ren is that he never judges, right? With all these violent acts and tragedy he only once called somebody a name, when he called the father a "bastard". He leaves the emotions, interpretations and judgements to us. He's not black and white, he simply tells a story. So many people look at people as either good or evil without acknowledging the complexity of life. Here, however, Screech gets his moment, his story is told, beyond him only being a killer. I love and respect that so much.
I've seen a few reacts to this, but I could tell from your eyes that you caught the twist before Ren articulated it clearly. Great reaction and quick thinking! 👍
WTF,,, why have I never heard of Ren before, first Hi Ren , now this !!! This kid is fucking talented a fresh sound for an old and new generation 🤘🏼❤️🤘🏼
Great reaction to this masterpiece buddy🙏🏽 Some details about this amazing performance - Violet was silent just like Jenny and Screech was violent like the father - they were both lined side by side in the hospital and when they died on the street - Patrick was not at home when he knocked bc he was with her girlfriend cheating on screech who was busy - Every song words start with the guitar high note banging on the string saying someone is about to die - 2005 in violets tale was the date she gave birth and 2019 is when Jenny’s tale came out which makes her 14 years old
Thanks for your reaction. Our guy Ren always leaves us feeling that we were hit by a bus, does he not? But we always come back for more because of the beauty of his music and depth of his words. Take care.
One of my very favourite reactions to this and Hi Ren and I have been in a reaction rabbit hole for weeks. The respect you have for the talent, the artistry and the work put in to the videos is also very authentic. I look forward to seeing more Ren reactions, because trust me you are never going to get bored. I also suggest you look up “Ren reacts to reactors” taken from his twitch stream on his birthday when his latest song was dropped. It will validate your worth to him and I’m sure all the other reactions you do. Having followed him for a few years it absolutely broke me to see such raw humbleness. Oh also his band, The Big Push worth checking out too, Bongo Bong & I Shot the Sherrif/Road to Zion/Hip Hop are my personal favourites. New UK subscriber here. Peace and respect ✌️✊🫶
As far as I'm aware, Ren doesn't have any other "epics" yet in the same way as "Hi Ren" and the tales trilogy (by which i mean longer, explicitly narrative driven songs, and I could be wrong on that, I only discovered him in December when he released "Hi Ren"), but i absolutely adore his song "Blind Eyed". Awesome reaction, as per usual, love the thoughts you manage to put into words, like at 7:15
Yes, definitely "Blind eyed"! There are several live versions out there. I would personally recommend the MC sessions one. An absolute 💎 ! He and Sam are crazy good together.
Chase, loved your reaction! You get it. And I appreciate that you do. There will be ton of suggestions for the next one for you to react. They're all good, but different styles from what you've been exposed so far. But that's ok. You can pick any confidently. Ren doesn't do bad music. It's all a matter of style and personal taste. I would like to personally recommend you one of his collabs with Sam Tompkins that I usually don't see having much love on the comments section. It's an original song by them called "Blind eyed". There are several live versions on yt. Pick the MC sessions one, please. An absolute 💎 of a performance by these two gentlemen! Thanks and keep going! ❤😉
What i honestly loved about your reaction to this, is when i Violets tale, you talk about the choices to leave some sounds in, the ambient noise etc. I could actually see you got emotionel about it because you loved the pureness of it.
Honestly I've been watching so many reactions to Ren because I remember how it made me feel the first time I watched it and I love seeing it happen again and again. But your reaction is by far the best 👌 you've earned my like and subscribe, your not overly analytical and you're not afraid to just listen and feel and then describe those feelings... good work man keep it up
You hit the nail on the head with the reasons these performances are impactful. Mostly, it’s the authenticity. I love that you call back to the Every Time I Die show you experienced, as that’s one of my favorite bands. In fact, I have somewhat of a unique set of live ETID videos on my page that give you a sense of being there. Check it out to see what I mean. Thanks for the great commentary!
Ren is a modern day bard. And so much more. He is a multitalented genius. I already see multiple suggestions for Chalk Outlines (live), so I just want to add Crutch feat. Bibi to the list of recommendations too. It is a stunning piece of raw emotion.
This wasn't originally a trilogy. When Ren read in the paper about a 14 yr old boy killing a young prostitute in an attempted robbery and then being shot and killed by the police later that evening he set out to write a commentary on not just senseless violence but on how desensitized we are in society to all this violence. The main example of this is the words he ends both Jenny and Screech's Tales "It's such a Shame". In today's society we say that all to often and just move on without a second thought. This crime Ren read in the paper wasn't even headline news, it was a small article buried on page 3. Violets Tale was written almost 3yrs later adding another layer of commentary by Ren on not only generational violence but making us think as well on how this violence comes about. It's not a coincidence that Jenny has the same traits as her mother Violet, quiet, voiceless, and timid. Where as Screech mirrors his father Stevie in every way, loud, obnoxious, and easily prone & provoked into violence. They didn't know one another and had never met their biological parents, mum dead and dad likely incarcerated. Yet, what made these 2 kids so much like their parents? Was it simply Nature, inherited traits in their genetic make-up or Nurture, being brought up in the broken system of broken children. Their are always layers on top of layers in Ren's stories.
for something different but still in Ren's catalogue, you can go with pretty much any one of his busking videos where he sings covers from Police, Bob Marley or Black Sabbath, to name a few... or you can go down the rapping river... Yesterday was his birthday and he released an original rap song..otherwise, another one that really showcases his skills is Hunger.
You're right. It's not 'A Song' It's a whole piece of Street Theatre and Videography with the full drama and tragedy & twists and turns of the human condition, laid out in Shakespearian depth. Ren is master lyricist, musician, singer, actor, composer, script writer, director, story teller... Stunningly good. Yes, I believe we have, not a National, but an International Treasure here. A true and inspirational Creative. There are Music and Drama Teachers/ Lecturers coming out now and saying they are adding this content to their curriculum for their students to study. I hope Ren is seeing this development. To my mind this is a far greater accolade than any Grammy! I believe with just the one song/ performance; 'Hi Ren', he has done more to engage understanding and empathy for people with mental illness, than decades of Public Awareness Campaigns aimed at reducing stigma. Right HERE he has done the same for: Domestic Violence, Social Breakdown, At Risk Youth and Street Violence. He engages you - not just as a 'viewer' - but as a WITNESS! He screams; You can't look away from this!" This is real - happening every day. You - I - We need to do what we can to address these issues. To make a difference. Yes, we all want Ren to be well and to stay well and to pace himself as he moves forward in his career.
I'd love to see your reaction to Precious by The Big Push. The Big Push is the band Ren has been playing with before his current medical treatment in Canada. I've not seen any other reactor do it...and it's very special.
Have no words for this beautiful sad performance. And you re right, Ren is "only" telling the story. In order to be able to do that, he literally shakes himself before the beginning of this tragically brutal story at 16:21
The ending hits hard like sledge hammer! Before release he did short videos on his phone getting stolen by Screech. It nearly backfired as people unsubscribed and friends blocked Ren. You see Patrick and friends with his girlfriend. You could tell Patrick wanted to get Screech's girlfriend away from him. Screech bullying Patrick and friends. Added to the whole story. Great reaction 👍 subbed brother.
Your openness and sensitivity made this feel like a whole new watch for me (not the umpteenth). I really hope Ren gets a chance to watch your reaction to this, and reaches out to you. Thank you for sharing your experience. ❤
thank you for taking time to have a discussion at the end of the video. a lot of reactors quickly get offline following the video. I appreciate your thoughts and discussion at the end.
Firstly, shout out to the ETID live experience! I've been seeing them live since 2006 before their demise. Absolutely amazing performances! As for Ren, the guy is something else! He is a modern day bard and needs protecting at all costs.
I spoke to Ren in a dream that befell me following your reaction to The Tale of...a dream in a light doze at my desk. We sat at a table, this humble genius and me. I related your words to him and he smiled, interested and polite, tears coming to his eyes. I don't remember his words, but the tone, I remember the tone and it felt like sheer joy was washing over me, a tidal wave of emotion gilding the moment. I awoke abruptly, pulling away from that sensation to find myself disturbingly shocked at this return to reality. Your words concerning the effect of music on the listener were the transportive magic that birthed a moment that never happened. But it did, in my mind, and was as real as memory. What a gift you've given me to accompany this story, a modern minstrel's tale of human sadness, delivered in a way as to lift the spirit, and not dash it to bits on the cold streets where Jenny and Screech lay. I followed your Nightwish journey from day one to its now near conclusion. This is another journey where I will sit on your shoulder as you navigate genius, as you share your reaction and analysis with an eagerly waiting world. We are all children sitting at the feet of a magical bard, and I welcome you as his chronicler.
On a note to what u mentioned "When editing and cleaning up music these are conscious choices to leave them in"- except there is no editing, all of these are a LIVE performance done in ONE TAKE type of recording/singing/performing and so on...
I've seen that people are suggesting Ren X Chinchilla Chalk Outlines (live) next, but I think you need some playful, uplifting Ren next. So my suggestion is What You Want, then do Chalk Outlines or How to be Me (also the live version).or Freckled Angels (live).
That's just incredible. The songwriting, the performance and cinematography are out of this world. Also: i think the guitar playing and the compositions, especially of the intros are really wonderful and highly impressive. Thanks for giving it justice with a wonderful and thoughtful reaction. I can highly recommend Ren's busking gigs with sam thompkins as well
Ren has a really wonderful soul. There're much other good and brilliant things to say about him, but for me that's the ultimate core of his fantastic art. ♥️😇
I'm so here for this. Mate I'm so sorry you've had street violence inflicted upon you. I have as well. 5 guys, hit me (I'm 6'1) so hard I flew from the footpath to the road. Broke the orbital bone in my cheek. Stomped my partner at the time, left him unconscious with all broken ribs & destroyed his wrists. And was in domestic violence for 11 years. Best thing I did was not have kids with him. I agree, we must protect Ren & I'm sure he would be happy to chat with you, he's very nice indeed. Awesome reaction as always
When you started explaining about playing the happy music when he is telling the worst parts of the story I 100% agree on it as well I also think these stories take a toll on him, so he intentionally writes in happy music while singing the saddest parts to sort of balance out the good and evil. If you see in Violets tale right before he leaves the room he takes a deep breath like he is preparing himself for what I feel is the saddest part of the 3 part masterpiece. I loved your reaction man!
For an example of the beauty of words and voice try Chalk Outlines (live) and How to be me (live) the blend of Ren and Chinchilla is hauntingly beautiful.
Thank you for your reaction and the calmfully and analytic words at the end. I loved the way you could summarize what made this such a special experience. "and it feels like he's telling the story, it doesn't feel like he's trying to tell a sad story... it feels like the story is sad... it feels like the story is sad... he's just telling it... these are two diffrent things" - this was the best way to explain what many of us are feeling while listening to him and seeing it effecting us emotionally but can't describe what he does exactly to make that happen :) Hope to see more of you in the future!
Ren is his own genre. I can't get enough of him. He is a prodigy and his music will be around forever! New sub because you react to Ren! Great Reaction Bro!
It's such a logical conclusion, as to how it's all connected... But his brush strokes while painting the story are so good, that you are blinded to the entire canvas.
You have given one of the BEST reactions I've seen. Your soul demands it?? It sure does! Your commentary on authenticity and the limits of music not having limits beyond what we can just hear was beautifully said. Thanks for this. And, always thanks to Ren and Sam. 🖤
When "Violet's Tale" started, I was sure that it had to be connected to Jenny & Screech somehow. When the end rolled around, I had completely forgotten about it from just being completely captivated by the story. The complete shock was so strong I didn't believe it. I had to go back and hear that I actually understood it right to believe it
I look forward to your next Ren video. It will be worth the wait... for just as Ren is a gift at just the right time for this world... so, too, is your authentic, insightful, thoughtful analysis/reaction. The quality of your words... & what underlies them... is just as needed today as Ren's inspired art. May you be blessed. Til next time... enjoy the view.
Welcome to the Ren Rabbit hole. Next, you should do Money Game part 1 & 2, or Sick Boi, or his song Chalk Outline with Chinchilla or the songs with his former band Big Push -- the live version of I Shot the Sheriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop. Each one is a joy. There is so much to enjoy and each is different. I am enjoying the reactions, keep them coming
If you're looking for another Ren Song to react to I would suggest Dominoes. It might not be as authentic as these three and Hi Ren, since it is more "produced", but I still very much connected with it, emotionally.
That ending stays with you... Eventually I came to see Screech killing Jenny like a generational replay, like Violet being killed yet again. And then I started to see Screech as a victim too.
Its such a pleasure listen to your reactions. Usualy i only listen to them without watching the actual video itself. Your take is so different on many levels. Looking forward to more Ren reactions! Keep up the great work mate!
I love watching Ren blow people's minds ❤
He’s special
"We must protect Ren at all costs" best comment on Ren ever. Thanks for your awesome reaction.
he is so right
It's like he's revived some medieval art...a story-telling style we dared to forget. I feel every dirty city had minstrels like this. Ren is a master conduit for things not discussed openly enough in my 52 years.
Bardcore!
Truebardour.
@@patrickquinlan3056 True[the]bard[is]our[s]
Same age and couldn’t agree more
I concur.
Takes a genius to recognize a genius.
Ok, that ending was better than any M Night Shyamalan twist I've ever seen....
😂👌❤
Comment of the week 🔥🔥🔥
on point!
I dunno " I see dead people" surprised me
@@seth1455 sure it did, that's why it's such a great compliment!
Is anyone else having trouble getting their friends/family etc. to connect with Ren? I’m thankful for this community, and that my eyes are open and not one of the sheep in the middle, asleep. Cheers
I made some of my kids watch today. They just thought it was weird. Fortunately my bf loves REN as much as I do. We have his album on repeat in the car.
Loved your reaction to this wonderful story
The falsetto directed up into the stairwell gets me everytime
If you gonna do more Ren, I recommend you do the live version of Chalk Outlines with Chinchilla.
Agree
Agree
This! I cant wait for Chase to flip out over the environment sounds in that one. Its really my favorite 🥰
Yup definitely this one next ✌️ also how to be me ft chinchilla both song the live version for sureeee
Yes please
I’m so glad you picked up on the conscious decision to leave certain background noises in. I feel this get overlooked a lot. They are very deliberate to draw us in 👏👏
Your jaw to the floor at the end says it all.
In your HI REN reaction, which also caught you by surprise, you led off with comments about bravery and authenticity (on the part of the artist) and expectation (on the part of the listener/viewer). At some point in my life, I came to realize that I'd been holding an expectation only when it was violated. Since then, it''s become almost a joy when I notice those violations and attendant aha's. I've never encountered an individual who provides more of those aha's than Ren, who always surprises. By now, you and I and many others are months into these treasured Ren joys, and community has formed around that, along with the sufferings, copings, and healings that are essential to the human condition. I didn't mean to say much more than a deep thank-you, Chase, but I trust you understand.
A Bard, a poet, a Troubadour, a Wandering Minstrel, a Thespian. Yes, as you say, he must be protected. Bringing back the sounds of Medieval times.
I can't wait 'till he does a performance of this type of music actually playing a Lute.
Bless you for your reaction and your insights. Respect to you Sir
Thank you for the kind words Andy 🙏
I think we all made the same face at the end of Violets tale. Makes ya wanna now go back and reexamine those first two songs.
And from an interview I heard this all came from Ren hearing a news story about a 14 yr old prostitute who was stabbed to death and his mind built this around that.
Yes Jenny was a street walker I mean how many 14 year old girls do you know that are walking around in the middle of the night in high heels.
Screeches girlfriend and best friend Patrick were together fooling around.
Both of them had been in foster care seeing as though their mother was gone and their father was going to jail. And no way the courts let them go to her parents after they had to remove Violet from the house at 16.
Violet and Jenny were very much alike quiet and not protective of themselves and Screech and Stevie and even Violets dad were all violent abusers. Weird how that happens
Your thoughtful, considered, response to Ren's music has made your reactions some of my favourites. Ren's storytelling is exceptional.
He cried when he saw how many reactions there were to his new song on his birthday yesterday, so I hope you know how much the support of reactors means to him. (Someone clipped that section of his livestream: th-cam.com/video/FKU9DbaIYos/w-d-xo.html)
I think you'd appreciate the songs he did with Chinchilla: How to be Me (live) was written about his best friend who lost his life to suicide. And Chalk Outlines (live) is also a very raw and beautiful song. Both are more melodic than Hi Ren and the Trilogy of Tales, and give you another side of him as a performer.
Money Game pt1 is cinematic and profound, with pt2 being blunter and less interperative but still very honest.
Sick Boi tackles mental health and other themes in a grungier, rappier way that is still very different to anything else out there.
If you'd like something more joyful from him then his band (The Big Push) have some uplifting things like It's Alright, Praise You, or the busking session I Shot the Sherrif/Rd to Zion/Hip Hop.
There is so much to explore, and it would be interesting to hear your thoughts on whichever facet of his work intrigues you the most.
These are so many great suggestions! I agree!
@@ydo-bc5wj Me too
This god damn storytelling man! Maybe it’s weird, but beginning of violets tale, ren gets up and does a shake. I felt that. I used to do that all the time in theatre to get into character
I have noticed that also , His "acting" is somewhat underrated
The ending is something i wasn't prepared for.
Yeah it's something special alright.
Nobody is prepared for it....
Honestly when the line "twin lay side by side" my brain Instant went back to the line "jenny and screech lay 1 street apart" and dots connected and when ren confrimed it my heart sank.
I genuinely like your calm and analytic way of reacting. However, even though you might not express too many emotions verbally, I could definitely see in your facial expressions how much this was emotionally affecting you. Thank you for sharing this moment!
This definitely hit me very hard. Editing the videos and watching the premiere i saw that even more. It’s a special song, from a very special artist.
RENaissance!!! Liked and Sub.
I listened to this yesterday for the first time, but only after watching this now, did I actually catch the ending properly. That completely passed me by the first time somehow.
It’s been said thousands of times, but here we go.. I’m an old metal head who rarely ventures out of that genre.. But this guy is something special.. a true storyteller.
A Bard of modern times.
Hey man, yeah this guy is something special. Honestly one of my favourite videos I've done. Appreciate you taking the time to watch and support!
My favourite Ren is Crutch (with Bibi). He wrote it 6 years ago before he had the Lyme's diagnosis and was really struggling with his health. (both mental and physical.) It is a completely different side to him.
I get a Shakespearian vibe from this it has this strong tragedy feel to it. I love this so much its awakened a feeling of something very old and forgotten yet modern and relevant.
Shakespeare level with the depths of a Greek Tragedy.
Wow. That was an incredible reaction. You can see the various emotions going across your face in the harrowing last lines of Violet’s tale. Just before the final sucker punch to the gut! I fell down the Rabbit hole when I, like you, experienced “Hi Ren” for the first time a few months ago and my brain exploded (I have MS, anxiety and depression.). This one song resonated in every fibre of my being. It took me a couple of days to fully process that this young man (I’m 56) in under 3 minutes both musically blew me away and gave a voice to my inner struggles) Then I did a TH-cam search for Ren and stumbled across “The Trilogy”! Clicked on the full version and I was drawn into the genius that is Ren Gill. I’d recommend Money Game parts one and two next. Just incredible. Or yesterday (Ren’s birthday) his latest track “Illest of Our Time” (also incredible.)went live. Oh, or “Chalk Outlines (I don’t think I need to repeat myself lol) where he duets with Chinchilla! Either way you have many wonders to discover. Ren is truly a rare talent. I haven’t been this exited by an act since I saw AC/DC live in a small 2500 seat venue a long, long time ago. I was just passing through but I think I’ll stick around. Now to watch your “Hi Ren” reaction. 🏴🤘🏻
P.S. Welcome to the RENaissance.
Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and also for comment with such kind words. Really appreciate it. Ren is beyond special and I’m so incredibly lucky to share my journey with you all. Thank you 🙏
Must've been in regional Australia in the 70's to see AC/DC in a venue that small?
@@DukeOfTwist Edinburgh Playhouse, Scotland. 😎🤘🏻
Unfortunately it was after the Passing of the great Bon Scott but Brian Johnson paid tribute to the great man during the gig.
@@TheBorderRyker I heard them when I was 12 from outside our local town hall in country Victoria.
@@DukeOfTwist That must have been pretty awesome. Best rock band to ever take to the stage. I only got to see them that one time unfortunately but damn what a show! Brian Johnson strode past me with Angus Young on his shoulders playing one of his famous extended solos. Angus was (and still is) a true rock god!
That ending had me shaken for quite some time.... such a lyrical genius!
It’s remarkable. Still has my mind and heart on a string.
I’m 67 and his music is probably, no definitely, the best I’ve heard, I have music from just about every genre in my collection, everything is so special, his duets with Chinchilla are magical and his band, The Big Push, wonderful, I’d suggest you try them all
I’m so excited for you to see How To Be Me (live) for the first time. I already know you’re going to love it.
Greatest storyteller musician of our time.
You can tell how he and his Team got better and better from one to the next. Jenny is him as a Bard, busking on the Street. In Screech the play with surroundings and Camerawork starts. Violet.... i mean, it's pure Art. In every aspect
Like many I suppose, my first exposure to Ren's work was "Hi Ren". Now seeing this, the kid has one hell of a musical vision doesn't he? Here's hoping he and his vision can finally break through.
Man I went through a rollercoaster of flashbacks and emotions with this musical story. I Haven’t lived that kind of life for over 20 years now but it came back so clear.
I say it's time to have your mind blown in a fun upbeat way. Check out "The Hunger", "Losing It", and "What You Want" and after that check out him with his band The Big Push specifically doing their cover of "I shot the sheriff". Limitless talent this guy has.
"we must protect Ren at all cost" 🥹😂😂 oh how i loved that line bahaha yes my friend indeed Ren is an "alien". Welcome to the REN SAGA ❤️❤️
Hey - popping by because I've been enjoying your Ren reactions that I've been bingeing over the last week (instead of doing productive stuff 🙄) really enjoyed this. I hope you know we do appreciate you. Much love ❤
What I love about Ren is that he never judges, right? With all these violent acts and tragedy he only once called somebody a name, when he called the father a "bastard". He leaves the emotions, interpretations and judgements to us. He's not black and white, he simply tells a story. So many people look at people as either good or evil without acknowledging the complexity of life. Here, however, Screech gets his moment, his story is told, beyond him only being a killer. I love and respect that so much.
"Crutch", "Money game", "Hold on", and there are incredible 'busking' covers, and there are incredible rap songs...
I've seen a few reacts to this, but I could tell from your eyes that you caught the twist before Ren articulated it clearly. Great reaction and quick thinking! 👍
Yeah it hit me a little before and it was an enormous rush of emotion. What he can do with music is surreal. Thanks for watching and supporting 🙏
It's like Ren just ripped a hole in the space-time continuum and created a gravitational force stronger than the human mind.
Chase, I just want to echo others' suggestions to watch Ren x Chinchilla live: Chalk Outlines. They're absolutely beautiful together!
WTF,,, why have I never heard of Ren before, first Hi Ren , now this !!! This kid is fucking talented a fresh sound for an old and new generation 🤘🏼❤️🤘🏼
Your on point with that. its not about making a sad song, its about a sad story thats need to be told.
Great reaction to this masterpiece buddy🙏🏽 Some details about this amazing performance
- Violet was silent just like Jenny and Screech was violent like the father
- they were both lined side by side in the hospital and when they died on the street
- Patrick was not at home when he knocked bc he was with her girlfriend cheating on screech who was busy
- Every song words start with the guitar high note banging on the string saying someone is about to die
- 2005 in violets tale was the date she gave birth and 2019 is when Jenny’s tale came out which makes her 14 years old
Thanks for your reaction. Our guy Ren always leaves us feeling that we were hit by a bus, does he not? But we always come back for more because of the beauty of his music and depth of his words. Take care.
One of my very favourite reactions to this and Hi Ren and I have been in a reaction rabbit hole for weeks. The respect you have for the talent, the artistry and the work put in to the videos is also very authentic. I look forward to seeing more Ren reactions, because trust me you are never going to get bored. I also suggest you look up “Ren reacts to reactors” taken from his twitch stream on his birthday when his latest song was dropped. It will validate your worth to him and I’m sure all the other reactions you do. Having followed him for a few years it absolutely broke me to see such raw humbleness. Oh also his band, The Big Push worth checking out too, Bongo Bong & I Shot the Sherrif/Road to Zion/Hip Hop are my personal favourites. New UK subscriber here. Peace and respect ✌️✊🫶
Yes! Chalk Outlines & How To Be Me both featuring Chinchilla are must see videos too. Actually, they all are ❤
As far as I'm aware, Ren doesn't have any other "epics" yet in the same way as "Hi Ren" and the tales trilogy (by which i mean longer, explicitly narrative driven songs, and I could be wrong on that, I only discovered him in December when he released "Hi Ren"), but i absolutely adore his song "Blind Eyed". Awesome reaction, as per usual, love the thoughts you manage to put into words, like at 7:15
Yea I love Blinded-eyes with the Parking Garage Attendant. He and Sam are amazing.
Blind Eyed (with Sam Tompkins) is a great song. Personally, I love the live versions of Blind Eyed so much more than the produced one.
Yes, definitely "Blind eyed"! There are several live versions out there. I would personally recommend the MC sessions one. An absolute 💎 ! He and Sam are crazy good together.
Chase, loved your reaction! You get it. And I appreciate that you do. There will be ton of suggestions for the next one for you to react. They're all good, but different styles from what you've been exposed so far. But that's ok. You can pick any confidently. Ren doesn't do bad music. It's all a matter of style and personal taste. I would like to personally recommend you one of his collabs with Sam Tompkins that I usually don't see having much love on the comments section. It's an original song by them called "Blind eyed". There are several live versions on yt. Pick the MC sessions one, please. An absolute 💎 of a performance by these two gentlemen! Thanks and keep going! ❤😉
What i honestly loved about your reaction to this, is when i Violets tale, you talk about the choices to leave some sounds in, the ambient noise etc. I could actually see you got emotionel about it because you loved the pureness of it.
I heard this first. Probably a few months before I saw/heard Hi Ren. It’s gold. Pure gold.
Honestly I've been watching so many reactions to Ren because I remember how it made me feel the first time I watched it and I love seeing it happen again and again. But your reaction is by far the best 👌 you've earned my like and subscribe, your not overly analytical and you're not afraid to just listen and feel and then describe those feelings... good work man keep it up
You hit the nail on the head with the reasons these performances are impactful. Mostly, it’s the authenticity. I love that you call back to the Every Time I Die show you experienced, as that’s one of my favorite bands. In fact, I have somewhat of a unique set of live ETID videos on my page that give you a sense of being there. Check it out to see what I mean. Thanks for the great commentary!
Ren is a modern day bard. And so much more. He is a multitalented genius. I already see multiple suggestions for Chalk Outlines (live), so I just want to add Crutch feat. Bibi to the list of recommendations too. It is a stunning piece of raw emotion.
This ^^^ Absolutely he should do both of those songs. You have to watch the video for Crutch though, it will leave you in tears!
This wasn't originally a trilogy. When Ren read in the paper about a 14 yr old boy killing a young prostitute in an attempted robbery and then being shot and killed by the police later that evening he set out to write a commentary on not just senseless violence but on how desensitized we are in society to all this violence. The main example of this is the words he ends both Jenny and Screech's Tales "It's such a Shame". In today's society we say that all to often and just move on without a second thought. This crime Ren read in the paper wasn't even headline news, it was a small article buried on page 3.
Violets Tale was written almost 3yrs later adding another layer of commentary by Ren on not only generational violence but making us think as well on how this violence comes about. It's not a coincidence that Jenny has the same traits as her mother Violet, quiet, voiceless, and timid. Where as Screech mirrors his father Stevie in every way, loud, obnoxious, and easily prone & provoked into violence. They didn't know one another and had never met their biological parents, mum dead and dad likely incarcerated. Yet, what made these 2 kids so much like their parents? Was it simply Nature, inherited traits in their genetic make-up or Nurture, being brought up in the broken system of broken children. Their are always layers on top of layers in Ren's stories.
for something different but still in Ren's catalogue, you can go with pretty much any one of his busking videos where he sings covers from Police, Bob Marley or Black Sabbath, to name a few... or you can go down the rapping river... Yesterday was his birthday and he released an original rap song..otherwise, another one that really showcases his skills is Hunger.
You're right. It's not 'A Song' It's a whole piece of Street Theatre and Videography with the full drama and tragedy & twists and turns of the human condition, laid out in Shakespearian depth.
Ren is master lyricist, musician, singer, actor, composer, script writer, director, story teller... Stunningly good. Yes, I believe we have, not a National, but an International Treasure here.
A true and inspirational Creative. There are Music and Drama Teachers/ Lecturers coming out now and saying they are adding this content to their curriculum for their students to study. I hope Ren is seeing this development. To my mind this is a far greater accolade than any Grammy!
I believe with just the one song/ performance; 'Hi Ren', he has done more to engage understanding and empathy for people with mental illness, than decades of Public Awareness Campaigns aimed at reducing stigma.
Right HERE he has done the same for: Domestic Violence, Social Breakdown, At Risk Youth and Street Violence. He engages you - not just as a 'viewer' - but as a WITNESS!
He screams; You can't look away from this!" This is real - happening every day. You - I - We need to do what we can to address these issues. To make a difference.
Yes, we all want Ren to be well and to stay well and to pace himself as he moves forward in his career.
He doesn't pull punches!
You should have a look at Chalk Outlines by Ren and featuring Chinchilla!
I love your authentic reactions to Ren's music.
Along with the other suggestions below, Crutch, featuring Bibi is a powerful track.
Best 2 Ren reactions I've seen mate, thanks.
As a pallet cleanser and a window into Rens technique, I strongly recommend The Hunger and Genesis.
That’s super kind of you to say, thank you so much 🙏.
I'd love to see your reaction to Precious by The Big Push. The Big Push is the band Ren has been playing with before his current medical treatment in Canada. I've not seen any other reactor do it...and it's very special.
Ren is such a master of ambient noise. Great reaction.
Have no words for this beautiful sad performance.
And you re right, Ren is "only" telling the story.
In order to be able to do that, he literally shakes himself before the beginning of this tragically brutal story at 16:21
"It feels criminal to just call this music"----- bars
The ending hits hard like sledge hammer! Before release he did short videos on his phone getting stolen by Screech. It nearly backfired as people unsubscribed and friends blocked Ren. You see Patrick and friends with his girlfriend. You could tell Patrick wanted to get Screech's girlfriend away from him. Screech bullying Patrick and friends. Added to the whole story. Great reaction 👍 subbed brother.
Your openness and sensitivity made this feel like a whole new watch for me (not the umpteenth). I really hope Ren gets a chance to watch your reaction to this, and reaches out to you. Thank you for sharing your experience. ❤
He's a modern day minstrel. He's pure artistic genius. I appreciate your personal and authentic reaction. Sometimes silence speaks volumes. ❤
thank you for taking time to have a discussion at the end of the video. a lot of reactors quickly get offline following the video. I appreciate your thoughts and discussion at the end.
Firstly, shout out to the ETID live experience! I've been seeing them live since 2006 before their demise. Absolutely amazing performances!
As for Ren, the guy is something else! He is a modern day bard and needs protecting at all costs.
I spoke to Ren in a dream that befell me following your reaction to The Tale of...a dream in a light doze at my desk. We sat at a table, this humble genius and me. I related your words to him and he smiled, interested and polite, tears coming to his eyes. I don't remember his words, but the tone, I remember the tone and it felt like sheer joy was washing over me, a tidal wave of emotion gilding the moment. I awoke abruptly, pulling away from that sensation to find myself disturbingly shocked at this return to reality.
Your words concerning the effect of music on the listener were the transportive magic that birthed a moment that never happened. But it did, in my mind, and was as real as memory. What a gift you've given me to accompany this story, a modern minstrel's tale of human sadness, delivered in a way as to lift the spirit, and not dash it to bits on the cold streets where Jenny and Screech lay.
I followed your Nightwish journey from day one to its now near conclusion. This is another journey where I will sit on your shoulder as you navigate genius, as you share your reaction and analysis with an eagerly waiting world. We are all children sitting at the feet of a magical bard, and I welcome you as his chronicler.
You said "its happening again" (pulling you in)..exactly.
CHALK outlines and Crutch.
Thank you. I shared this to Ren's Rabbit Hole Fans page.
On a note to what u mentioned "When editing and cleaning up music these are conscious choices to leave them in"- except there is no editing, all of these are a LIVE performance done in ONE TAKE type of recording/singing/performing and so on...
I've seen that people are suggesting Ren X Chinchilla Chalk Outlines (live) next, but I think you need some playful, uplifting Ren next. So my suggestion is What You Want, then do Chalk Outlines or How to be Me (also the live version).or Freckled Angels (live).
Ren = bardcore! He is an amazing storyteller. Also I started watching MTN through seeing this video the first time round, he’s a great guy 🖤
That's just incredible. The songwriting, the performance and cinematography are out of this world. Also: i think the guitar playing and the compositions, especially of the intros are really wonderful and highly impressive. Thanks for giving it justice with a wonderful and thoughtful reaction.
I can highly recommend Ren's busking gigs with sam thompkins as well
Ren has a really wonderful soul. There're much other good and brilliant things to say about him, but for me that's the ultimate core of his fantastic art. ♥️😇
Ren is just amazing, all his stuff is so good, and the range of different genres. The big push is also amazing
I'm so here for this.
Mate I'm so sorry you've had street violence inflicted upon you. I have as well. 5 guys, hit me (I'm 6'1) so hard I flew from the footpath to the road. Broke the orbital bone in my cheek. Stomped my partner at the time, left him unconscious with all broken ribs & destroyed his wrists.
And was in domestic violence for 11 years. Best thing I did was not have kids with him.
I agree, we must protect Ren & I'm sure he would be happy to chat with you, he's very nice indeed.
Awesome reaction as always
You are spot on. We are so grateful for Ren. He’s a gift. Great reaction per usual.
When you started explaining about playing the happy music when he is telling the worst parts of the story I 100% agree on it as well I also think these stories take a toll on him, so he intentionally writes in happy music while singing the saddest parts to sort of balance out the good and evil. If you see in Violets tale right before he leaves the room he takes a deep breath like he is preparing himself for what I feel is the saddest part of the 3 part masterpiece. I loved your reaction man!
For an example of the beauty of words and voice try Chalk Outlines (live) and How to be me (live) the blend of Ren and Chinchilla is hauntingly beautiful.
all three in one shot also. (except one cut at the start of Screech)
also you see him mentally prepare himself for Violet's Tale when he stands up
He is an artist : it's all about emotions
Sweet Intro and well put. Ren belongs in a different range of artists that will hopefully be known in thousands and thousands of years.
This is the best musical analysis of this trio of songs I've yet seen. Please keep doing what you do.
I think every musician/composer/artist who watches these Ren videos, at some point, think to themselves, "Man, I really need to up my game."
Very much appreciate that, I know there are lord out there. I really enjoyed my experience of these and glad you liked it.
Thank you for your reaction and the calmfully and analytic words at the end. I loved the way you could summarize what made this such a special experience.
"and it feels like he's telling the story, it doesn't feel like he's trying to tell a sad story... it feels like the story is sad... it feels like the story is sad...
he's just telling it... these are two diffrent things" - this was the best way to explain what many of us are feeling while listening to him and seeing it effecting us emotionally but can't describe what he does exactly to make that happen :)
Hope to see more of you in the future!
Ren is his own genre. I can't get enough of him. He is a prodigy and his music will be around forever! New sub because you react to Ren! Great Reaction Bro!
Thank you so much. Very much appreciate it and yes Ren is something very very special.
It's such a logical conclusion, as to how it's all connected... But his brush strokes while painting the story are so good, that you are blinded to the entire canvas.
You my friend, need to start your own channel with that kind of thinking 👌
@@ChaseCarneson Thank you sir. Haha... But I'm good with just enjoying your brilliant reactions, as well as others'.
@@ChaseCarneson I'm patiently awaiting your eventual reaction video for "How To Be Me" with Ren and Chinchilla. 💙🤙
You have given one of the BEST reactions I've seen.
Your soul demands it?? It sure does!
Your commentary on authenticity and the limits of music not having limits beyond what we can just hear was beautifully said.
Thanks for this.
And, always thanks to Ren and Sam.
🖤
🙏🙏🙏
When "Violet's Tale" started, I was sure that it had to be connected to Jenny & Screech somehow. When the end rolled around, I had completely forgotten about it from just being completely captivated by the story. The complete shock was so strong I didn't believe it. I had to go back and hear that I actually understood it right to believe it
I look forward to your next Ren video. It will be worth the wait... for just as Ren is a gift at just the right time for this world... so, too, is your authentic, insightful, thoughtful analysis/reaction. The quality of your words... & what underlies them... is just as needed today as Ren's inspired art. May you be blessed. Til next time... enjoy the view.
Holy shit. I just noticed the autographed He Is Legend album in the back. Hell yeah.
Welcome to the Ren Rabbit hole. Next, you should do Money Game part 1 & 2, or Sick Boi, or his song Chalk Outline with Chinchilla or the songs with his former band Big Push -- the live version of I Shot the Sheriff/Road to Zion/Hip Hop. Each one is a joy. There is so much to enjoy and each is different. I am enjoying the reactions, keep them coming
It's crazy when you think about it this can easily be made into a movie
Such a good reaction. I really loved watching. ❤
If you're looking for another Ren Song to react to I would suggest Dominoes. It might not be as authentic as these three and Hi Ren, since it is more "produced", but I still very much connected with it, emotionally.
That ending stays with you...
Eventually I came to see Screech killing Jenny like a generational replay, like Violet being killed yet again.
And then I started to see Screech as a victim too.
It's amazing how Ren connects us with strangers through music. Great reaction!
He's a modern day Bard, a Minstrel of sorts. He calls himself Bardcore.
Its such a pleasure listen to your reactions. Usualy i only listen to them without watching the actual video itself. Your take is so different on many levels. Looking forward to more Ren reactions! Keep up the great work mate!