Remembered My Password!

Wow. It has been such a long time since I posted on this and so much has changed since then. I really used to enjoy writing it but it seems 'adulting' quickly got in the way... But here goes nothing.

SUMMER SONGS FOR A HAPPY 2017. 

1) SOOM T - BOOM SHIVA

If I were to be a musical artist I'd be Soom T. She mixes Asian influences from classical folk to bhangra with reggae and hip hop. She can rap with the best of them and the cherry on the top? She has an awesome Scottish accent. I've not seen her perform live except for an appearance on the odd YouTube video but I have asked her to perform in Manchester at some point in the future and she said she would! The album 'Ode to a Carrot' is a must for the summer months and you can find the whole thing online.

2) DARK DARK DARK - IN YOUR DREAMS 

I heard this song for the first time and was instantly hooked. It was literally on repeat for days and it's the kind of song that can change with your mood from making you dance like a crazy person to a contemplative journey on a train. Dark Dark Dark are an American folk band - using all of my favourite instruments including the accordion! I'll be honest I'd never heard of them until I started to watch the BBC drama 'Thirteen' about a girl that was kidnapped as a teenager and her escape from her captor. If you haven't seen the series you really should give it a watch. It's very good but I can say the ending was fairly disappointing.

3) VALERIE JUNE - PUSHING AGAINST A STONE

What a gorgeous voice Valerie has. It's a cross between country and soul. This album is one of my current favourites. I don't think I've ever heard an American artist with such a distinctive voice for a very long time. The whole album is worth a listen and if this title track doesn't inspire you to do that you and I can no longer be friends...

4) SHOCKING BLUE - LOVE BUZZ

If you are feeling in a bit of a slinky mood the original version of Love Buzz is the song you must listen to. Obviously the cover by Nirvana is amazing and it was only on a trip down grungy memory lane that I came across the original. It is so of it's time... basically a mad 60's trip. It's been sampled by so many people including The Prodigy that you feel like you know it anyway.

 

5) TANYA STEVENS - IT'S A PITY

I heard this on one of the Pirate Reggae Radio Stations I sometimes tune into. You honestly find some amazing stuff on the wireless if you ride the dial for a bit. I know people don't really do it these days with so much music on your laptops and phones but there are some gems that you will only find if you are introduced to them by DJ's who really love what they do. This song is great to dance around to but it also makes me laugh lyrically.



So obviously this is the female artist summer edition! I promise it was not intentional! But I hope you enjoy this long overdue post! xx

Summer Loving 2013

 1) CHRIS MARTIN - CHEATERS PRAYER. 

When it is warm, you cannot beat some reggae beats. This is just a fact of life. So let me introduce you to Chris Martin. No, not the guy from Coldplay. I first heard this song in my Dad's car and it made me laugh so much! I still love it now. Other songs to listen out for would be "Paper Loving" and "Beautiful."

2) LORDE - ROYALS.

I know I always say I have songs on repeat but this one was ridiculous I had it on a continuous loop for over two weeks and I am still not bored of it. It's one of those songs that are perfect for a journey on public transport. All you need to know about Lorde: she is from New Zealand, only a teenager and a brilliant song writer. 

3) ASAF AVIDAN - ONE DAY. 

I prefer the non-remixed version of this song but for Summer this Wankelmut Remix is a lot better. Lyrically, simple. Musically, intelligent. He is a great live performer and really captures the sentiment of each song he writes. I don't know why he reminds me so much of Daryl Palumbo of Head Automatica/ Glassjaw. 

4) BEIRUT - POSTCARDS FROM ITALY. 

I accidentally clicked shuffle on my phone and was greeted by this old favourite of mine. Since that day, I have been listening to this album far too much. So it seems Balkan folk music is most certainly my thing. This is the song I am going to set our California 2013 trip video footage to. So excited. If you have never listened to Beirut please start by listening to their first album from which this song comes from. 

5) YOUTH LAGOON - DAYDREAM.

A band I knew little or nothing about but, having gone to one of thier gigs at Gorilla in Manchester a few days ago, I am a convert. The style is almost dream-pop like? Do you know what I mean? Ambient and mystical. Definitely worth giving them a listen whilst reading a book and sipping on a diet coke! 

Well there are plenty more I could add to this list but I don't want to bore you! I will be writing an exclusive I got from a certain MR DJ DEREK in my next post. So please keep your eyes peeled. And apologies for not posting for so long!! 

The Blues Revival...

JACKSON C. FRANK. 

It's probably not the kind of music you should start your year listening to but most of you know I have a strong appreciation for musical storytelling, especially when there is a sad story to tell. The story of Mr Frank is quite an extraordinary one.... 

His life was as tragic as any bluesman, his songs laced with melancholy and simplistic honesty. Whilst researching him I found that there had been many dark turns of fate which brought to life his lyrical genius.  Through his misfortune his talent was born, he learnt how to play the guitar after being badly burned in a school fire. Following a substantial compensation settlement he left America in 1965, for less sunnier climes here in the UK. 

He arrived in the midst of the British folk revival where he influenced, and was influenced by an impressive list of musicians including Paul Simon (who produced Mr Frank's first and only album.) Upon trying to record his second album he developed writer's block, with money running low he returned to the USA. Along this journey he married a former fashion model and lost his son to cystic fibrosis. 

What followed was a rapid downwards spiral - childhood scars burned, disappointment and mourning wept, a shot to the eye left him blind, homelessness on the cold streets of New York ensued and all roads led to mental illness.

In the early 90's - Jim Abbott- an admirer of Frank's work tried to help him record a new album but the songs they cut were not the glorious return to form either of them had expected. His life experiences had wore thin the voice that made him special. Jackson C. Frank died in March 1999 from pneumonia and a heart attack.  

A special album including the 'newer' material he recorded is what I am now in possession of. My favourite 'newer' Frank song would have to be "Halloween Is Black as Night." It has a brilliant despondency and sounds remarkably like a Leonard Cohen song, only much darker and more desperate than Cohen has ever been.   

My favourite songs with a 3 word review: 

1. MARLENE - blissful folk lovesong
2. HERE COME THE BLUES - traditional raw blues
3. PRIMA DONNA OF SWANS - beautiful lyrical imagery

The Reggae and Clarks Connection.

We all did it; stood on a wooden block feeling all disgruntled while a “nice lady” measured our feet. She’d run off to the back to get three boxes of exactly the same patent black shoes with a little buckle to the side. They were reliable, durable and perfect for anyone under the age of five, well of course they were; they were Clarks.

 At that age you wished they didn’t fit or that your parents were cooler so you could have the awesome shoes, you know the ones… with the red lights that flashed as you walked. Those weren’t just any school shoes they were the super cool, super amazing, wow your friends and strut a little school shoes. But nope, your evil parents would insist on the sensible ones that they thought were cute, they’d aww and talk about how quickly you were growing up and if you mentioned those light up beauties you’d be told they were for boys, like that would stop me wanting them. Please! 

If only at that age I had realised that in Jamaica not only would I have been at the height of fashion with my Clarks kicks on but I might even have gotten into some bother with the Police. Yes, you read that right. Okay, maybe not at five years old but add 20 years and make me a man and there might have been a problem.....

So what is Jamaica’s love affair with traditional Clarks shoes? Well mostly a love of UK goods. In the late 50’s and early 60’s there was a massive wave of immigration from the Caribbean and Clarks became a shoe of choice for people when they arrived. Going home in them was a revelation and a pair of shoes became the perfect gift from loved ones residing in the UK.

Clarks opened up a store in Kingston when they cottoned on to this new untapped market and things got crazy. It was the boots that the Jamaican boys were after, they were expensive but if they were going to have them they would have to be Clarks. The shop sold 400 pairs in 5 days which meant they sold out!

But the people who were buying them weren’t just boys they were Rude Boys. I guess you could liken their reputation to that of a Chav. The shoes had become a status symbol amongst them, like Zoot Suits for Italians in America. As the shoes became an important part of the Rude Boy uniform they also became a method of establishing “troublemakers” by the police. In a bid to crack down on fights and bad behaviour most clubs in Jamaica wouldn’t allow anyone wearing them in!

A ban on imports made them more desirable as they were harder to get a hold of which meant trips to the UK to bring them back began again and even now they are still the footwear of choice for anyone whose anyone!

In the modern day, it’s not much of a surprise to see an elderly Jamaican man wearing a pair of Clarks shoes but if you ask him about his life and his dress sense over the years,  I’m sure he’d have a few interesting stories to tell.  

Here’s Vybz Kartell showing his appreciation of the brand we rejected aged 5: 

Inspired by a Newsnight news package.

Forgive me, for I am only human...

I have been threatened by my trustee followers that they will no longer follow this blog unless I actually post something. So let me start by apologising for my absence, times have been busy, stressful, exciting and ever changing but these are not excuses.

Instead of reflecting on what I have been listening to, watching and craving from the fashion weeks that seem so long ago, I will give you a slice of three things I love.

INTRODUCING …. KYLA LA GRANGE.

 

Her debut album “Ashes” was thrown into my life by chance and I was not disappointed. Florence and the Machine worshippers may tune their ears to Kyla’s vocals and rejoice in a folkier/goth version of the Welch master!  

The album itself is quite a mixed bag. One thing I think it lacks is continuity – even the vocals sound different on each track – but I think that makes for a charming listen. You move from the anthemic vibes of “Been Better” to the grass roots folk (similar to Frazey Ford) on “Woke up Dead” to the quirks of Americana on “The River.” It’s a bit of a rollercoaster but give the girl a break, it’s her first album! For me, it has been the perfect accompaniment to these dark nights – be that on the tram ride home from work or a night in, in the pod. For anybody who appreciates a bit of drama and darkness, this is your album.

Above is my favourite. 

INTRODUCING…  THE WINTER LBD ENLACED.

For the past few months I have been pawing my way through magazines and eyeing up beautiful black lace dresses. Lace is such a difficult thing to wear – you can end up looking like your dressed for Halloween, as a widow, a Goth or just really cheap and tacky. But there is something about the fabric that is both elegant and sexy. It’s been worn by many a celebrity this winter already and was a big hit for Dolce and Gobanna on the runways in Milan this year. So I finally did it, I purchased myself a full sleeved lace dress with a high neckline. I’ll be honest, it did look more Goth than hot but I liked it anyway. For once in my life I decided to go for a trend I wasn't sure would suit me and I didn't die or anything, so maybe I’ll take a fashion risk again at some time!   

INTRODUCING… THE NEWSROOM.

I am obsessed. For anyone who works in a newsroom this is a must. I felt so pained waiting for the weekly episodes to be aired that I waited until they were all recorded on sky plus and watched them in one sitting. Then I watched them all again the following week! Characters, plotline and scriptwriting was all impeccable. I laughed at least once in every episode. The thing I loved most was that I realised just how exciting my job was and that I could liken the characters to people I know. The programme blurred the line between tv drama and reality by using real life events and showed how newsrooms in America might have dealt with them. One of my trusty friends also revealed that one of the characters “Mackenzie” was based on a BBC Newsnight producer, which explained why the fictional programme had the same name!

Summer loving with a sprinkle of rain...

.... here is a soundtrack to the past few months: I'll add the words later!

The comeback kids....

You have to love those artists that just leave you hanging for a few years and then come back with some incredible material. Okay, we don't get many of them... but this year it looks like it's about to change....

REGINA SPEKTOR - ROWBOATS

It has been three years since her last album and I am so glad to find that she hasn't lost her sense of self in her new material, like so many others do.I am actually really loving the fusion of old and new! If anything I'd say her sound has developed and with maturity the impact and impression she leaves lasts a hell of a lot longer. I really love this new song and if you haven't listened to any of her other stuff please do....

THE SHINS - SIMPLE SONG

First of all let me say what an amazing video this is! I really did love The Shins back when I was in college and I think it has been close to five years since they last released anything! Times may have changed since the original band were on the scene but now with a few new members the quality of this track just speaks for itself and I'm sure it'll have a place on most people's playlists! You can't deny yourself a sexy power-pop riff!

LET IT BE KNOWN...

Bonjourno, I think it's time you got under my skin... don't pretend like you don't have songs that fall under all of these headings! Maybe it should be a bloggerooo trend... you all post the songs that fit! That's not going to happen is it? Didn't think so....
Anyway, the artists/tracks are all pretty new so please... enjoy!

MUSIC TO DANCE IN THE STREET TO: 

---- NIKI AND THE DOVE - THE DRUMMER

It isn't the kind of music I listen to on the regular but there is just something about Niki and The Dove that makes me want to listen. I had a similar feeling when it came to Miss Kitten and the Hacker a gazzillion years ago. Even though I feel pretentious listening to these tracks in public - I love them and they do make me want to break out in dance... of course I always refrain and act like everyone else... not... haha! 

MUSIC TO HAVE A CASUAL STROLL TO:

----MILES KANE - FIRST OF MY KIND

Miles Kane on this song really really reminds me of Echo and The Bunnymen and no, it's not the way  he sings"moon" there is just something there...  The pace and tempo of this song is actually quite useful as it means you can get to work on time and still look casual and cool whilst doing it. Or is it just me that walks in time to the music?

MUSIC THAT MAKES YOU FEEL LIKE YOUR IN A MUSIC VIDEO:

----JAMES N COMMON - DEVIL IN ME

If only he was attractive but he isn't and I don't think that'll change anytime soon, but I still love him. He sounds like a whiskey drinking, smoker that you'd find in the corner of an American bar. The kind who doesn't speak to anyone - doesn't actually like humans and wishes you were dead. Basically the kind of guy every stupid girl like myself... loves! haha

MUSIC FOR WHEN YOU'RE ABOUT TO FIGHT:

----DOT ROTTEN - ARE YOU NOT ENOUGH?

I think it is fair to say that Dot Rotten is possibly the only/first viable answer the United Kingdom has had to Eminem. Now, as much of a surprise as it may be... I was quite a big Marshall Mathers fan back in the day, as was my mom (because she is from the ghetto's like me) so yes... I think I may like Dot Rotten although every now and then I say Dot Cotton like the woman from Eastenders. Not good!

MUSIC THAT MAKES YOU THINK OF SUMMER:

----VARIOUS CRUELTIES - NEON TRUTH

There is nothing like a traditionally English sounding band with all the trimmings that make for a super summer sound. If anything I feel a little bit of an old school Mystery Jet's vibe from this song but that may just be because I have had a recent resurgence of love for them. Either way, I adore this track and based on that reason alone I feel it may play the soundtrack to Summer 2012. 

MUSIC YOU ROCK YOUR HEAD/THROW YOUR ARMS TO: 

----YOUNG GUNS - BONES

After Cheesy played me his package that was mixed to Papa Roach, it brought back a wave of emotion and reminded me of my old taste in music. It seems as though times have changed but the Young Guns seem to be keeping that whole genre alive and well. Maybe I need a "taste of chaos" in my life again? That is if they are still happening? Oh my god, how old am I? 

MUSIC YOU CAN FALL ASLEEP TO: 

----JASON MRAZ - I WON'T GIVE UP 

It's just standard Mraz isn't it? He always knows how to make music that makes you feel tired... in a good way of course! It's just super relaxing, a little sad and at the right volume it can be perfect. I'm really looking forward to hearing the new album... if this single is anything to go by it should be amazing. 

MUSIC THAT MAKES YOU WANT TO SPIN AROUND ON A SUNNY DAY:

----WARPAINT - UNDERTOW

I had been listening to this song on repeat for the past few weeks. Not like, all the time... just a lot of the time. Then my friend Chelsea posted it to me as it came on her ipod and she wanted to share the love of one of her favourite bands... coincidence? As incubus wisely said - there's no such thing! But either way, this is a lovely song and it is one of those that makes me wish I had a floaty white dress, daisy chains and a field with a single pony in it - to frolic with! 

AND EVERY GOOD POST SHOULD END WITH SOMETHING LOVELY... 

.....SO HERE IS WHAT REAL LOVE LOOKS LIKE

IN THE FORM OF CHUCK AND BLAIR FROM GOSSIP GIRL! 

FELLOW JOURNALISTS: please watch

LOVE IT!

x

REPORT: Things I like at the moment.

THIEVERY CORPORATION:
If ever you are in need of something to listen to that will a) put you in a good mood and b) relax you. This song by Thievery Corporation would have both on its tin. I'll be honest it is not the most exciting track -musically or lyrically- but there is just something about it that makes you want to listen again and again or is that just me? It also helps that the woman in the video is actually stunning. The rest of Thievery Corporation's back catalogue highlights an interesting array of genre's from dub and acid jazz to classical Indian music and Brazilian bossa nova. Sounds like: Portishead, Chicane 

OF MONSTERS AND MEN: 

To me this six-piece from Iceland are likely to become part of a new movement of music that we really need in 2012. They have a lyrical awareness that is second to none, amazing and simple melodies as well as a complicated yet beautifully constructed album. When I finally get my own car, I can see myself driving to this song. Despite the jaunty rhythm on "Little Talks" the track is actually really really sad and has been one of the songs I have had on repeat for the past week or so. They'll do well. Sounds Like: Arcade Fire, Mumford and Sons

DJ MARK FARINA:

From Chicago, Mark Farino has been on the scene for quite a while and is known for his relaxed beats that take us back in time. I hadn't heard of him until recently but I was very glad that his music came into my life (just to add there is a lot of it to get through! Over ten albums and that does not include mixtapes) This song (Daddy's favourite do it) however, has become one of my favourite's and I dare you not to move your shoulders to it because that is nearly impossible... 

Sounds Like: Himself!

MISSED YOU AT THE SHOW: 

If you wanted catchy melodies and adventurous time signatures then this is the band for you. Although I love this song quite a lot, I must admit that you can't really get away from the very blatant fact that this pop quintet have a very short shelf-life. They have appeared on BBC Introducing and are clearly very influenced by the music around Manchester (where they come from) but I just can't see where they would fit in the music market, not that I am that in-tune with it anymore. I guess they are very new and have plenty of time to develop their sound but for now this is the only song I really like. 

  

Where did they go?? The blog post....

There are so many artists that feature on my ipod that have fallen off the face of the musical sphere... this blog post will feature those bands that I loved and lost in probably less than a year... does it say something about the music they produced? or is this just part of the musical life cycle?

THE GLITTERATI. 

They were big in 2005 especially in the rock 'n' roll scene, this was at a time when the sleaze was back i.e: Velvet Revolver etc. Although they look like a traditional glam rock band from LA they are actually from Leeds in the UK! But aspirations of moving across the pond - the style, the sound and the glitter seemed to fall by the way side as the second album flopped and despite still being signed we have yet to hear anything worth writing about....

ALISHA'S ATTIC

I think liking Alisha's Attic in my pre-teen years makes me a pretty cool person! With my little bit of saved up cash I got all of their singles because I could never wait to save up ten pounds for the album from Woolworths! Anyway... the band was made up of two sisters and they had a Siouxsie and the Banshee's feel about them. Some of their later material had serious Asian influence with sitars and tabla's and they were generally just an amazing band that disappeared in the early 00's - they should definitely make a come back!

COLOUR OF FIRE

Colour of Fire - one album, one tour and one split. The question that always goes around in my head is, why? Their music was pretty good they had some awesome melodies and the frontman was a bit of a slice (that is,at the time, on reflection - not so much so!) Lyrically they were pretty amazing their whole first album was so well written despite the fact that they were only in their early 20's. Anyway, I say they should reform but the likelihood of that happening is probably O. 

SOPHIA

"Oh my Love" was the only song I really really loved by Sophia. I don't think they really hit the big time ever but this song was the closest they got to that dream. As Robin says at the start of the video this song in particular is a sad pop song and I am a sucker for both those things! I wish the official video was available because it sounds and looks amazing, but this will have to do until you find it for yourself!  

Music Predictions for 2012...

1)   KING CHARLES

Some might say that he looks a little pretentious - with his crazy facial hair and love of all things old but who are we to judge! To me, King Charles is the new Devendra Banhart/Patrick Wolf combined - before they both sold out that is! With his catchy chorus lines I think he may just infect the population. He is one of those people who I think will remain at large in the underground indie scene, make a brief cross over to mainstream, begin to believe the hype and slowly fade away - a la Patrick Wolf. Lets hope he has more staying power than I am giving him credit for! 

2)   SUNDAY GIRL

As always with me, it started with a cover version. I heard Sunday Girl sing MGMT's time to Pretend and I was sold. I really thought 2011 would be her year but luckily I didn't blogify that prediction so I can use it this year instead! 2012 really should be her year - she can pretty much do anything! She has versatility in her voice and style - she has already made an appearance in the Dubstep scene and despite the bubblegum pop appearance I get the feeling we may get a few more dance tunes out of this one. It doesn't hurt that she looks like Francoise Hardy's love child but trust me when I say she is one to watch!

             3)  ALICE GOLD

Everyone needs some pop in their life and Alice Gold gives it to us fiercely through her oodles and oodles of bouncy blonde hair. The singer/songwriter has been around for a little while and despite the fact that her music is actually pretty good she has found it very difficult to get noticied. However, with a bunch of new material which sounds a lot more polished I have a feeling that 2012 might just be her time to shine! Dear God! I sound like some sort of cheeseball DJ who thinks he knows it all! I guess I'll just roll with it now... prepare yourself! 

4)   LITTLE RACER

 

Hailing from Brooklyn, the threepiece make me think of a more tropical-sounding Surfer Blood. Obviously I know the West Palm Beach mob sound pretty tropical anyway, but LR are seemingly all about making hazy melodies and Beach Boys choruses.

New York Fashion Week Round Up!

So I am ashamed to say I missed the first day of fun and festivities but I shall give you my two penny's worth for the other 4 days!

Day 2 - Nerves Running High

I am sure the athmosphere would have been extremely tense as it was the 10th anniversary of 9/11 (the only time ten years ago when Fashion week was ever cancelled, or so I believe?) So to the designers who had this day to show and tell... here are my faves...

JASON WU

Although sticking to his classic style this collection was evidently inspired by pop art with its electrified embroidary and a mixture of spangles including beady bits, pearls and an array of sequins. I was happy to see a rainbow of colour but more in love with the bright pinks on display. This was clearly a collection for those "out-there-and-oh-so-modern" folks. Although it was major risk playing with proportions for spring it seemed to work well. And even more of a surprise - I actually liked the use of perlums they seemed to work well with his overall vision for the collection. I can see how this collection may trickle to the High Street.

My Favourite Look:  The evening with a contemporary twist - a photo-negative digital print T-shirt with a black silk skirt offset on the hips with a feathered peplum. It was odd but cool! Also who could miss the pink nylon trench coat... no me neither!

PETER SOM

This collection was certainly sleek, was worried it might be a bit boring with the opening look of a manly looking white tee and weird skinny trousers but it all turned around pretty quickly. Soon the models started to look like zebras running in a sunset... well those are the images you expect when using zebra print and yellow, surely? I loved the floral prints especially the blue floral top which we know you'll be able to find in Primark in a month or two.

My Favourite Look:  The showstopping strapless bright PINK gown. It really just showed how simplictity (if it is well done) can be amazing! Also I loved the high slit and I have never been a fan before!

Day 3 - Hippy Power

It seemed like New York had been hit by a hundred weddings with thousands of flowers being sprinkled simultaneously as Day 3 went ahead with flower power prints and the real deal scattered on runways!

PRABAL GURUNG

Well last year he won the Council of Fashion Designers of America award for emerging talent which is why I was very interested to see what he did with this collection. After all he had been set up to fall but actually he managed to live up to the hype surrounding him. I loved the collection. It seemed somewhat futuristic with a space age circle mini skirt - but if you are considered a designer who will create fashion of the future you can afford to be more adventurous! However, I was actually pretty surprised to see leather especially as a fabric for sportswear! but you have to hand it to Gurung he is a master of detail!

My Favourite Look: The dominatrix-inspired white crepe(?) dress that had black ties on the sides and an updated corset.

JILL STUART

The collection seemed like an early 1960's resort look with soft feminine sherbert tones and comfy looking shapes. Obviously adding the Stuart twist we had a few palm trees and bird motifs thrown in just in case we didn't get the concept! haha! It is strange how Stuart has moved so swiftly from that rocker look she was known for to a modern day 60's icon inspired show. To some degree it felt like the collection was old, not just because it was inspired by times past- but more a case of having already seen drop-waist shifts, culottes and inverted-pleat skirts in the High Street in the last few months.

My Favourite Look: The mini romper/playsuit that was so well executed it really could have passed for a mini shift dress if you hadn't looked carefully!

Something to get your teeth into...

I am sorry to those who happened to read my last post. I have deleted it but thank you for your kind messages.

This post is just going to be about the music that I have been listening to a lot recently. This means you may have already heard of the artists, the songs or maybe even both? But you never know there might be the odd surprise amongst them.

Sarah McLachlan – Ice

Those that know me know that I am a sucker for female vocals. I am going to hit you with a cliché straight away - Sarah McLachlan’s voice on this version of Ice would make anyone melt.

It is an absolutely beautiful song both lyrically and in its music’s simplicity.

The lyrics carry almost a poetic or somewhat Shakespearean theme.

Let me explain: The first verse bares great resemblance to Macbeth’s disposition when he craved power but felt that worrying would abort his crimes.

The chorus reminds me of a poem I studied for the English advanced extension award at college – I can’t remember the name of it but it was about a rose, lips, kissing and lies! Any ideas?

But yes this is not an English Literature essay so I’ll leave the rest to you.
Most people who have heard of McLachlan are probably more aware of songs such as Ice-Cream but this song is both unusual and quite haunting especially if you close your eyes and listen. So have a go….

Mierous Hennessy – Cover of Lil Wayne’s Single

Hailing from the one and only WEST MIDLANDS! She already gets about a gazillion stars from me. But I have to say this is an amazing cover version of Single. I don’t think I have ever heard a girl cover this song before! And I don’t know if anybody else could do it justice.

It is quite obvious that Mie is not signed, so for the most part all you can find online are badly recorded youtube videos that don’t really showcase her talent.
To be honest I am pretty sure she will get snapped up before we know it – after all she is only 19! So I wish her all the luck in the world. I’ll continue googling her and hopefully she’ll have an official website and record deal sooner rather than later.

Gemma Hayes – The Hollow of Morning Album from 2008

I think the bridge in this song explains my life very very well.

When things are not going great I want everything to be okay.

When everything is going great, I want/expect something to go wrong.

I guess that is just life.

Every now and then you re-evaluate the people you have lost in your lifetime – due to illness/old age, travel or just through growing apart.
This song reminds me of many people in my life – depending on the day and also depending on who has been slogging around in my head.
As much as it makes me cry sometimes for the most part it makes me smile as it is one of those songs that makes you look forward in a positive way. But like I said it really does depend on your mood.

The Pierces – We are Stars

I don’t think this song needs any words to describe it.
Just know that The Pierces are amazing, from NYC and their albums make you fall in love instantly.

The Morning Benders – Virgin

I was introduced to The Morning Benders by my dear friend Liam about a year or two ago and I thought they were pretty good. So recently I dug up some of their old stuff and whilst looking to see if they had any new material I came across this exclusive track which I think is really nice. Plus there is nothing better than a sweaty man, playing guitar and singing beautifully!

The Chaplin Sisters – Let Me Go

I am not going to say much about this song as I am going to do a whole post dedicated to these sisters because I love them very very much and they are super mega talented! So I guess you should see this as a teaser ;)



On repeat....

I know I have let the blog slip a little since I got my job so I thought I'd do one of those annoying here is what I have been listening to... and I think you should educate yourselves -post. lol! So here goes:

Cults - Abducted

You know as well as I do that you can give me an indie-pop track with a few xylophone twinkles and I am sold but add a scene-stealing percussive movement and some amazing vocals and I am in LOVE! 

I think the highlight in this song is the lyric "He tore me up because I really loved him" there is a rapturous longing in the vocals which transforms what could be just another love song into a twisted tale that screams with a wounded fervor. 

Imelda May - Inside Out

So I hear this song everyday... and nope not because it is on my ipod.... but because it plays in the office at least once a day! I did like it the moment I heard it but it wasn't until I heard it at a party/gathering that a new appreciation grew....

Anybody who tries to deny the happy simplicity of a traditional era rip off is seriously silly. Especially one that is this good! I have to hand it to Miss May that this has become one of those catchy tunes that plants itself in your head at stupid times of the day... the worst being just before bed. But... play it at a party and watch people come to life! 

Elkie Brooks - Sunshine After The Rain

Yes, when the chorus kicks in I can assure you, you'll probably wonder why it has been slowed down. But... fear not for this is the original that Berri used to make a quick 90's hit. May I warn you that the original sounds like it actually has some soul... so brace yourselves! 

Please do a comparison! It will make you laugh muchly... but it may also bring back some fond memories of being a tween! And we all love reliving those days don't we? 

Elbow Jane - St Teresa

I don't fully remember how I came across Elbow Jane but I just think that they are amazing. I think they need to get famous soon because there music needs to reach more ears than it is at present. I don't really know how to describe the sound its just pretty haunting. I have shared a video of a cover as they seem to make people appreciate an artist - I guess it gives people something to compare to?

I don't know what you'll make of this cover but I think its absolutely beautiful - amazing vocals which you wouldn't believe were live. Elbow Jane know how to bring country and folk to the masses. 

p.s: forgive me for my poor writing skills and my lack of effort. I just wanted to give you a blog-post dose to mend me missing a month of updating. Shame on me. 

Connan Mockasin - the new Bjork?

It is officially home time but as I wait for my final story of the day to be subbed I come across a very strange man... the kind of man you do not expect to come across whilst sitting at your desk at quarter to 6 in the evening.

It started with his name Connan Mockasin and step by step he intrigued me...his name, his face, his appearance and finally my search ended when I found this video.

It stopped because I knew I had to share it with you.

What starts as a simple scene of a painting ends up becoming a distorted post-modern juxtaposition/interpretation of culture, identity and love.

At first the variety of colours in the scene mesh together, creating an eerie portrait of blurred figures that appear sinisterly clown-like, yet animalistic. However, their movements are very soft which makes them even more creepy!

This opening scene slowly comes to life and then suddenly merges with the modern day, showing one man’s quest to find his love.

I love that he first sees his dolphin lover woman outside Liverpool Street Station.

Right, to the music…I was unsure about it to begin with. It sounded similar to The Dresden Dolls at first with a toy like piano/synth but it just kept changing it never stayed the same for more that a minute. This is one of the few music videos that uses lyrics and instrumentals to purely enhance visuals.

Anyway, I shall stop harping on and let you watch/listen for yourself! Enjoy! 

Jamie Woon's Lady Luck

It is not very often that I let a video speak for itself but in this case I made an exception. 

When I heard this song about a month or so ago I was blown away by its simplicity. Today my appreciation for this video grew when I saw the studio produced version on TV which left me quite disappointed.

The natural noise and backdrop sets this raw footage apart from most other acapella versions of songs you find on YouTube.

The raw voice and beautiful setting is what made this song stand out for me. 

Birmingham's Finest is Tipped for the Top

CLARE MAGUIRE

Clare is from Solihull in Birmingham and has been struggling since 2005 to be recognised in the music industry but now is finally the time for her to take center stage. After many years trying to realise her dream Clare is predicted to be the 'next big thing' for 2011! and I certainly hope that is what she will become. 

The first time I noticed Clare was when I heard her do a cover of Anthony and the Johnson's. Her voice was amazing and not many a woman could sing in such a low octave and still sound like a woman, Maguire being an exception. 

Although her first single entitled 'The Last Dance' is not one of her best tracks... I can see the Great British public latching on to it. Its catchy and uplifting - I guess you could say Clare is a happier version of Adele. All the talent minus every track being overtly depressing - be it with the aid of great lyrics or just the rhythm of her music. 'The Last Dance' has a slight 70's vibe to it with the repetitive synth and drum combination. The vocals as per usual are amazing and the rhythm of the song is nice and catchy. It's the kind of song that could quite easily get stuck in your head. 

My personal favourite off Clare's newest album would have to be 'Ain't Nobody' it has hints of a folk influence as well as an heir of Madonna from her spirtual 'Frozen' days - maybe its just the video that gives that impression though! Simple and Strong. 

Clare has a very distinctive strong voice and despite likening her to others in the same age range and in the standard female singer-songwriter category she has been placed in, she stands out. Her voice is rich and smooth- she never battles with her notes and sings them with a grace and elegance. She is what we need this year - six years of hard graft and she has finally done it! Her debut album will be released on the 28th February 2011!  p.s: check out the Chase and Status Remix of 'The Last Dance' - so nice! and Danny Byrd's remix is pretty nice too!

Designer Food... I kid you not!

... so fashion houses naturally branched off from clothes to perfume and cosmetics. The move was probably expected, after all a designer wants to create a perfect overall image. Thus, when brands such as Chanel found a significant market in luxury personal grooming products many other fashion houses jumped on the bandwagon.

Now designer brands can be found everywhere, so every man and woman can own a little bit of luxury. People mention the perfume they are wearing like they would mention the designer of their dress.

Designers have always been looking to expand business which explains the introduction of bed linnen and household goods but I for one never thought they would branch out into the fast food industry!

Yes! it's true. If you live and breathe high end designers and fancy the ultimate fast food treat you won't want to make a trip to The Gourmet Burger Kitchen when you could be tucking into a Burberry Burger, Hermes Fries or a Paul Smith desert.

So let the fashion weeks commence as these designer delights will probably be served at swanky after parties! I have no idea what kind of price we would be expected to pay for a Burberry Burger but I'm guessing it'll be more than the McDonalds 99p offer!

Add It To Your iPod...

Quadron is made up of two Dane's - Coco and Robin (suitably quirky names for wonderfully quirky people.) I cannot fault the easy listening element to Quadron's music that brings a contemporary yet vintage play on blue-eyed soul, funk and jazz. 

Such a wild combination of genre's could potentially lead to a listening experience that is far from pleasurable however, Quadron have successfully overcome being placed in that category. 

Despite only being in her early twenties Coco has mastered her voice to meet any genre or style with ease. Coco's voice slips from soul juxtaposing 70's pop based melodies  on tracks such as 'Slipping' to soft whimsical vocals and amazing voice over's on 'Buster Keaton.' With such a talented front woman the sky is the limit for a duo like Quadron. When listening to their music it's like taking a step back in time but finding something new, rather than something old and uninspiring. 

Everyone knows I am a sucker for an amazing music video and Quadron have not disappointed me with their output for 'Buster Keaton.' It is a clean, chic and simple video that packs punch with its use of colour, fashion and artistic direction. Be sure to check it out below!

p.s: for those of you that didn't know Buster Keaton was on old American actor that became famous for his silent comedy films. The male in this video plays the charismatic Keaton and channels this image via his bowler hat and distinct facial expressions associated with the actor.