FizzyPop!!

Single Selection: Christopher ~ Nothing In Common (+ Jesper Nohrstedt & Tommy Fredvang)

2012-01-31T08:24:00.000-08:00

It's very nippular out today. A scarf, hat, gloves, thick hoodie and gilet aren't going to cut it. I'm going to need long johns and a thermal vest :D What you will need to warm you up is some scintillating new pop. And that's just what I have for you today! Bonus!!

Christopher ~ Nothing In Common:

Christopher, who I first wrote about some weeks ago when he released his catchy debut single Against The Odds, is becoming quite the formidable contender in my imaginary outstanding new male Pop Star category. He's now onto his very charming indeed second single called Nothing In Common, which has already topped the charts in his native Denmark (according to the always reliable Scandipop). It's a gently chugging dreamy ditty that lyrically feels like a slightly different point of view as Perfect Match by A*Teens, while sounding like (the Glee versions of) Soul Sister and Just The Way You Are. There's nothing wrong with these comparisons as it creates a radio friendly sound and Christopher manages to embue his performance with enough of his own personality to make it a winner from start to finish. Not only do you have some lovely singalong "oh ohs", but there is also some delightful ukelele added to give it a slightly quirky off-kilter feel. Of course I approve of the single cover (above) and there's also a gorgeous piano-vocal version on youtube, which you can hear by clicking here - it should be called the candlelight mix as the sumptuous piano chords play perfectly along with Christopher's vocals. Cannot wait to get a full album from this young chappie.

If you like this, try these...

Jesper Nohrstedt ~ Take Our Hearts: Also from Denmark is recent X Factor graduate Jesper who has finally put out his first single, which is also an entrant in the Danish Melodi Grand Prix. I love a good grand prix I do. Anyway, you'll be able to see if he wins this Saturday because that's when the competition takes place - even if he doesn't win, this is a fine debut single that bodes well for a full length album. To say it's magnificent is an understatement - it starts off with a prominent, engaging piano riff and moves towards this growing crescendo when suddenly a whole wall of pop sound explodes against a vibrant chorus. Synths, beats and an effortlessly soaring, layered vocal propel the song forward & you feel yourself caught up in the energy created by the music, and the romantic, optimistic nature of the lyrics. The world needs more songs like this. Play often. Play Loud. Feel Amazing...
Tommy Fredvang ~ Make It Better: Let's hope on a coach to Norway and see what they have on offer. Oh goodie it's Tommy Fredvang (who, let's face it is quite pleasing to look at let alone listen to :D) who has a new song out that from the title I expected a big power ballad. Nope, it's a huge anthemic crowd pleaser which feels like a big 80s stadium rocker, with added synths and electro sound effects. It's all very rousing indeed and has a commanding & energetic performance from Tommy. It's hard not to feel that frisson of excitement and jubilation when you listen to the song and sometimes that is what you need to make it through the day. Tremendous :)

Weekend Supplement: 3 Little Words from The Approval...

2012-01-29T22:22:00.000-08:00

Remember about 18 months ago when the world was awaiting the arrival of a male Lady Gaga popstar? And then along came Bruno Mars with his romantic ditties about loving people the way they are, wanting to marry them and, uh, putting your hand down your pants? It paved the way once again for men to open up about their feelings and get all ever so dreamy about their chosen fancy. And I bloody love it, I do. That's not to say I don't enjoy a stomping electro-funk pop sung sung by a male (step up to the mic, Asher Monroe), but it's certainly nice to have a more laid back perspective. And that's where this weekend's latest obsession comes in...

The Approval ~ 3 Little Words:

If you haven't checked out the boisterous shenanigans of The Approval's debut song "Up To No Good" (and it's accompanying EP) then you are doing yourself a disservice. Not only is it free (bargain!) but it's a fine introduction to the musical stylings of Roland and Simon, who are of course The Approval. 3 Little Words continues their winning mix of rapid fire lyrics combined with a more laid back piano-guitar accompaniment - the result (seen above in a charming video) are quite the delight. It commences with a piano-vocal introduction as Simon lists all the reasons he is quite the smitten kitten with his lady, while Roland gently adds some guitar to give it a more layered, organic sound. The verses become a little more jaunty as the piano chords become more playful, finger clicks are added and everything is slightly more uptempo; the delivery of some tongue twisting lyrics (something about picking a pebble from a penguin) are sung with grace and ease & it flows without hesistation into that swooning chorus. It's the earnest performance of the song that adds some real charm to the number - as Roland sings "the boys will laugh/think what they like/i'm having the time of my life", it's a relatable, believable lyric that anchors the whole theme of the song. It's a genuinely likeable song and a fine addition to the burgeoning Approval portfolio (not to mention the perfect Valentine's Day gift!) There is also the matter of the video (above) which just shows what can be done on a shoe string budget. Beautifully shot, it focuses mainly on the boys (loving the chunky knit sweater) performing the song interspersed with some lovely touches - candles in the background, stunning model girlfriends, pillow fights & footsie with said girlfriends & some nice moments where they teach the girls how to play their instruments. All in all, a touching, sincere, fine piece of work...

Top 21 songs of the week:

21 ~ Marcus Collins, Seven Nation Army (NE)
20 ~ The Feeling, Leave Me Out Of It
19 ~ Eric Saade, Hotter Than Fire
18 ~ Little Mix, Cannonball
17 ~ JLS, Do You Feel What I Feel?
16 ~ Madonna, Masterpiece
15 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War
14 ~ Darren Hayes, Black Out The Sun
13 ~ Asher Monroe, Hello Baby
12 ~ Kelly Clarkson, Stronger
11 ~ One Direction, One Thing (VID)
10 ~ The Overtones, Say What I Feel
09 ~ Youngblood, Blame It On You
08 ~ Scissor Sisters, Shady Love
07 ~ Auryn, My Favourite Guy
06 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
05 ~ Neo, Fighting The Dark
04 ~ Jason Mraz, I Won't Give Up
03 ~ Little Jackie, 31 Flavours
02 ~ LeKid, Human Behaviour
01 ~ fun., We Are Young (NE/1 Week)

Next week: MADONNA!!

The Fabulous Friday Playlist ft Marcus Collins, fun., & Marlon Roudette

2012-01-27T06:48:00.000-08:00

It's Friday. The sun is shining (despite an icy weekend weather warning for us Brummies). Painkillers are numbing the throbbing pains in my left side and back (marv). I'm about to tuck into a nice sandwich for lunch (prize if anyone guesses the filling). And there are a plethora of lovely new singles to thrust (good word, thrust) me into the weekend! But enough waffle, on with the musical morsels mes amies :)

Marcus Collins ~ Seven Nation Army:

Ooo, that were reet quick weren't it? Marcus, runner up of the factor commonly known as X, already has a debut single all lined up ready for a March release date. Magnif. Followers of my X Factor blog will already know I was quite quite smitten with the idea of Marcus The Pop Star. His weekly performances exuded energy and radiated star quality, plus he dressed quite well and was snogging the goodlooking one from Eton Road. All these qualities have luckily transferred directly into his first single - a cover of White Stripes Seven Nation Army. As you can see from the youtube clip above, his quiff is in better shape than ever (you could probably drop a brick on it and it would bounce right off) and he is still rocking the bow-tie combo with effortless chic and class. The interpretation of the song - much like Marcus - is vintage style mixed with contempory cool. There is some glorious piano in there, framed by some stabbing synths and sumptuous horns. It's all held together very ably indeed by Marcus who delivers an invigorating vocal. Pared back and playful when it needs to be, the song soars in the choruses and has some lovely trademark "whoos" thrown in for good measure. An assured debut then, now bring on the originals on the album please :) Ta.

fun. ~ We Are Young:

*HRNK*!! New obsession alert. I belatedly have stumbled onto this frankly amazing song and have played it a ridiculous amount of times in a row to fully partake of it's astounding brilliance. It's the first peak into their upcoming album "Some Nights" (due feb 21st album purchasing fans) and if it's half as good as the single, it's likely to be a euphoric, jubilant affair. This track is almost like two different singles meshed together. It starts with percussive drums delivering a persistent beat & a distinctive vocal from singer Nate Reuss. The first chorus shifts tempo and creates this soaring refrain that you can't help singing along to. This shift sets the pace for the rest of the tune and it instantly becomes an anthemic call to arms for anyone who felt like doing something crazy just for the gosh darn heck of it. The sweet addition of Janelle Monae in the middle 8 to a backdrop of chanted na na nas is the proverbial cherry on the delicious pop cake. Engrossing, mesmerising, inspiring pop. A few things - do watch the awesome video above. And do check out a lovely acoustic version here. Merci beaucoup.

Marlon Roudette ~ Anti-Hero:

I'm slightly behind on Marlon - he's already had some very excellent songs out (as well as giving away a fine free track for signing up to his mailing list), but it was his newest single Anti-Hero that caught my attention. Better late than never I suppose :) Armed with a lovely souful tinge to his voice, the song is a shuffling retro-soul gem whose romantic layered instrumental belie the searingly honest lyrics that accompany it. It's an interesting combination as the gorgeous synthy riff combined with the dreamy Marlon vocals make you want to grab the one you love and shimmy the night away. And there's certainly an optimism in the words as the song progresses that makes it an ultimately uplifting vibe. Bruno Mars may have laid the foundations for this type of song, but there's no doubt it's Marlon who'll make this track absolutely soar. Heavenly.

You're "kylie" likely to enjoy this post...

2012-01-25T23:30:00.000-08:00

Unless you have been living under a rock lately, you will no doubt be aware that K25 is just beginning - a year long celebration of 25 years of Kylie the Pop Goddess. Memories of 25 years of Kylie Minogue deserve a much longer post (indeed, I referenced how Better The Devil You Know was a ships passing in the night moment for Darren and I just the other day), but for now it's time to look at the song that is launching K25 and marvel at how musical empressario Steve Anderson (who worked on the track with Kylie) has any time to eat sleep or breathe. Not only is he spearheading some of the reworked K25 musical moments, he's also working closely on Elouise's tour and album, as well as overseeing the latest stage of Christophe Willem's career. He might be knackered, but based on what you'll see below, thank God the man is a machine...

Kylie ~ Finer Feelings (Abbey Road Version):

Out of all the PWL era single choices, this was one of the most elegant and refined. It peaked at #11 in 1992 as the fourth single from the Let's Get To It album (one of only 2 Kylie singles not to make the top ten at this point in her career). With this in mind, it's perhaps surprising that it was chosen as the launch for K25, but perhaps demonstrates most what Kylie and her able team are looking to achieve this year. Everything about the performance represents a mature, sophisticated Kylie - a singer whose confident in her delivery, and comfortable with her diverse career of songs. The tune itself is swathed in exquisite orchestral bliss where Kylie's voice acts as the melodic anchor, beautifully framed by elegant strings, sweeping bows and the addition of an almost tribal drums playing off against acoustic guitar create a flawless wall of sound that complement but never overpower Ms. Minogue's sweet, heartfelt delivery. It's at times reminiscent of the 'Samsara' section of homecoming, while at others reflective of Confide In Me - it does, however, keep it's own identity all the way through, taking the song to dizzying and effective new heights. It's understated yet always powerful and dramatic. And those operatic notes Kylie hits shows what an amazing singer she really is. Gorgeous audio, gorgeous vocal. I remain, as always, entirely smitten.

If you like this, try these...

Saint Etienne ~ Tonight: Hurrah! Saint Etienne are back. Everytime I hear their name, I remember that I haven't listened to the darling Hobart Paving or I Was Born On Christmas Day in a while and pop them on my mp3 player. Their latest track (available for free on their homepage!) is what I would call "Classy Disco", the type Sophie Ellis Bextor and Bright Light Bright Light do so very well. The whole track shimmies like a glittering disco ball, drenched in sumptuous harmonies, alluring and persuasive beats & mixed with a sheen of synth. It celebrates music and is in itself a celebration of all that Saint Etienne have achieved. It's a perfect disco moment and one that bodes well for their forthcoming album release. Welcome back lovely people!
Christophe Willem ~ Si Mes Larmes Tombent: The second single from the accomplished Prismophonic album sees Steve Anderson work his magic for the second time on this blog post. One of my personal favourites from the album, it's a hypnotic, piano driven ballad with enchanting vocal work that acts not only as an additional backing instrument but propels the track forward on it's somewhat heartbreaking journey. Christophe does some of his best work on this song and the track never runs away with itself, but remains focused and centred on piano & voice, weaving it's spell on the listener like a siren's song. The video of the song (below) is nothing short of mesmerising...

Happy Birthday Darren - his greatest hits :D

2012-01-23T04:44:00.000-08:00

Well a big happy birthday to monsieur Daz of the Pants! He is *whispers* 40 today, and what a fine specimen of a fella he still is :) We've just had a lovely big ace gang weekend away at which I premiered my mix cd for him which takes into account some of his favourite songs since he's been alive (Yes, I'm aware that a lot of them are from the last 20 years, but it's my list and I'll cry if I want to!)

I Just Wanna Fucking Dance ~ always his favourite way to kick start any night out, plus soundtrack to many an amazing moment at Centre Stage in Gran Canaria...
I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing ~ number one the day he was born. Oh sweet Christ.
Claire & Friends, It's 'Orrible Being In Love (When You're 8 1/2) ~ the first single he bought. Ah the lovelorn pangs of tweens.
Kylie, Better The Devil You Know ~ Unbeknownst to us both at the time, we were actually at the same Kylie concert back in 1990. I exited gracefully, he broke his arm (and still bears that scar today!)
Black Eyed Peas, Boom Boom Pow ~ There's really no accounting for taste is there??! He does do a mean slo-mo robot dance though...
Steps, Deeper Shade of Blue (Sleazesisters Anthem Edit) ~ one of their finest moments, and he still knows all the dance moves...
Salt n Pepa, Shake Your Thang ~ He loves a good rap does Darren. He can do One Boy Girl & Shocked (Kylie) at the drop of a hat, but this is his finest Salt n Pepa moment...
Heavy D & The Boys, Now That We Found Love ~ More rap and proof that young Mr D (Darren, not Heavy) still knows how to get down with his bad self...
Kim Appleby, Don't Worry ~ while he can whip out any Mel & Kim classic at a moment's notice, he does enjoy this rather uplifting pop treat...
Bananarama, I Want You Back ~ frankly any Bananarama moment would have done, but there's nothing wrong with this S/A/W classic, is there???
Lonnie Gordon, Happening All Over Again ~ More S/A/W and rightly so. Apparently she was as crazy as a box of frogs and so was DP for most of the 90s. I like to think I tamed his wild ways :D

Dolly Rockers, Je Suis Une Dolly ~ Poor Darren gets lumbered with a lot of music I like from upcoming pop acts and this is the one he probably liked best. Fave moment was us both doing the dance moves on a bridge in Austria. good times...
Holly Johnson, Americanos ~ Ooo, he loved a bit of Holly in the 80s did Darren. I think he also liked Love Train quite a lot but I didn't have that one on the computer...!
Beautiful South, Good As Gold ~ He also loves the Beautiful South, quite a bit more than me to be honest so I selfishly only included my favourite song of theirs...:)
Madonna, Nothing Really Matters ~ As he lived with a hardcore fan for a number of years, he knows all about the ins and outs of Ms Ciccone - this is his fave moment of hers (particularly some of the club mixes). I still think her finest effort is Like A Prayer...
S Club 7, Don't Stop Billie Jean ~ the disco magic of S Club mixed with the parental issues of Billie Jean (surely ripe for Justin Bieber to cover??) - what's not to love??!
Five Star, Slightest Touch ~ Let's not focus on the fact that for years I thought this was called The Midas Touch and concentrate on the fact that Darren does a mean shimmy dance move to it at the beginning of the song...
Bette Midler, Otto Titsling ~ Eee, he loves the Bette does Darren. Knows all her stuff, her smutty Soph jokes and saw her in Vegas twice. This is from her excellent weepie Beaches. I love a song about bras, I do...
Shania Twain, KaChing ~ he's very frugal and amazing with money, and also loves a bit of Shania. Ergo, this song was the perfect choice. Plus we are already planning to go see her in Vegas next year...
Sabrina, Boys Boys Boys ~ it's almost impossible not to have a good time when listening to this song. Any excuse to play it, etc...
Technotronic, Pump Up The Jam ~ Pump it up, while your feet are stomping, etc. Darren loves a bit of technotronic. He also approves of Black Box & Ride On Time.
Doris Day ~ Deadwood Stage: Many a car ride has been spent perfecting the spoken, quasi rap middle 8 interlude. It's amaze. "Snake oil for your rheumatism, calico and gingham for the girls/gum drops made up in chicag-y, gum drops just a trifle soggy & a genuine string of artificial pearls". BRILL.

Weekend supplement ~ 22nd January 2012: Pop bought to you by the letter "A"...

2012-01-22T08:07:00.000-08:00

How exciting (or not exciting at all) that this week's weekend supplement in true Sesame Street style is bought to you by the letter A. Or possibly A from Pretty Little Liars. Or just that I happened to be listening to two songs this morning, both by artists whose first names begin with the letter A. Frankly, I've bored even myself with this inane waffle, so let's dwell no more of and sally forth with the pickings shall we? Onwards!

Asher Monroe ~ Hello Baby:

I don't know much about Asher Monroe other than I recognise him from ace but not to be boyband V Factory, but I have gleaned this - the boy looks good in a shirt & tie, has an impressive set of pipes on him, can bust a move & has excellent pop star hair. This is all very well and good on it's own, but it's fortunate that the first song I've come across of his is an absolute corker. Hello Baby takes the charm & romance of your average Bruno Mars ditty, adds some JLS type club but pop friendly beats & mixes in some Katy Perry pop song sensibilities. With all these influences & inspirations, Asher still manages to inject his own personality and style into the tune which makes it a real winner. It all starts off with a percolating beat that propels the song out of the starting blocks; however, it all crescendos as you approach the chorus into this explosive celebration of beats, synths, dance & a hook that refuses to quit. There's a glorious moment in the middle 8 where it takes this pause, almost like a quick breather before the ibiza-esque vibe starts pulsating once more bringing it to an entirely satisfying conclusion. You can buy the song here & pray that an album of equal excellence is about to follow...

Alexandra Burke ~ Elephant:

I'm intruiged rather than excited by the choice of Elephant for the comeback single by Alexandra Burke. Her first (and only so far) album post X Factor success was an unqualified success with numerous top ten hits, some genuinely great pop moments (Bad Boys, Bury Me) & a bit of momentum that seemed to indicate she wouldn't have the "sophomore slump" that Leona suffered (somewhat). But then nothing. Alexandra took her time with album two, and Elephant keeps getting pushed back, mirroring (to a certain extent) what is happening with Leona & Glassheart, and what happened with Shayne Ward & Obession. Anyway, Elephant seems to have it's roots firmly in the club territory, with only an inkling of pop & it doesn't have the most instantaneous hook to it. However, like Collide by Leona, it does grow on me with each listen, yet like Collide by Leona I get the impression anyone could be singing it really. I'm still looking forward to the next stage of Alexandra's career, I just wish it wasn't taking as long and was a bit more knock your socks off. Knowing me though, a few more spins and i'll bloody love it!!

Top 21 songs of the week:

21 ~ Asher Monroe, Hello Baby (NE)
20 ~ The Feeling, Leave Me Out Of It
19 ~ Eric Saade, Hotter Than Fire
18 ~ Leona Lewis, Hurt
17 ~ Magnus Carlsson, Arrival
16 ~ Little Mix, Cannonball
15 ~ Darren Hayes, Black Out The Sun
14 ~ One Direction, One Thing
13 ~ Kelly Clarkson, Stronger
12 ~ Scissor Sisters, Shady Love
11 ~ JLS, Do You Feel What I Feel
10 ~ The Overtones, Say What I Feel
09 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War
08 ~ Neo, Fighting The Dark
07 ~ Madonna, Masterpiece
06 ~ Youngblood, Blame It On You
05 ~ Auryn, My Favourite Guy
04 ~ Le Kid, Human Behaviour
03 ~ Little Jackie, 31 Flavours (VIDEO)
02 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
01 ~ Jason Mraz, I Won't Give Up (3 Weeks)

Video breakdown: Jonas Oakland ~ Where Were You Last Night?

2012-01-19T05:16:00.000-08:00

Oh lord luv a duck. This video by my beloved Jonas Oakland has been out since Jiminy Christmas knows when (I asked him, sometime in late December), but i've only just gotten around to writing about it. In case you didn't know, Jonas is a Swedish fella with very good cheekbones and amazing hair who also happens to put out very good pop songs with amazing choruses. Usually they are his own self penned arrangements. However, for his 2012 launch, he has concentrated on a famous 80s Swedish power-pop (think All I Wanna Do by Heart but a bit faster) song called Where Were You Last Night by Ankie Bagger. Its got a harder club edge than some of his previous tunes and he totally reworks the song (but not in a slightly naff Total Eclipse of The Heart - Westlife way). Mercifully there is a video to it, which I shall now analyse below. But best to pop off to iTunes first and purchase the song :) You back? Then I'll continue...

Blimey! I thought i'd loaded the wrong clip first! I thought it was either the woman from Black Box's Ride on Time, or that bird that does some really enthusiastic dancing at Dick Clarke's Rocking New Years on an old episode of Friends...
(To be fair, she has a rather amazing stomach doesn't she? I bet she doesn't get through copious amounts of non-skinny Starbucks a week. THIS IS MY DOWNFALL ON THE STOMACH FRONT!!)
Phew, Jonas has turned up. Good job considering it is his video. I can confirm that his quiff is 100% amazing. I really regret buzzing mine off :(
Ooo. Now Jonas is surrounded by Black Box Woman and a strangely alluring beefy fella in a baseball cap. I'm booking a one way ticket to Amazing Island right now!!
Black Box Woman and Amazing Island Man essentially thrust and grind themselves up against Jonas' leg. Jonas himself is going through quite a number of wardrobe changes. I like his white printed t-shirt best of all...
At about 40 seconds, Jonas disappears and the other two get round to seducing each other. Amazing Island Man has a bandanna knotted round his jeans belt loops. Why I find this intensely alluring, I have no idea!! :P
At 50s they are all over Jonas again like a rash. How fickle :D How Jonas manages to keep singing at the camera when beefy hunk stud is feeling him up is beyond me. Such willpower! Or perhaps he is just annoyed that he does not know where his loved one was last night, which is sort of the whole point of the song isn't it?
And as if by magic, it's like a birthday come early because there is some alone time with Amazing Island Man. In the few seconds he's granted he doesn't so much make love to the camera, but offers more of an animalistic f***! OH MY!
Jesus! They got chills, they're multiplying! At around 1m40s or so, the dancers suddenly seem to double and triple in number. 3 Black Box Woman?! It's more than I can take :)
At 1m52s there is some amazing hair tossing. Black Box Woman obviously uses Loreal for that deep root clean. Because she's worth it...:D
(She could take someone's eye out if she is not careful!)
To be honest, the bit from 2m for about 10-15seconds is like one massive musical, visual orgasm of the senses. Quite astounding! I need a lie down...
More dancing, grinding and singing ensues. It's amazing how hypnotic and engrossing the video is, despite being made for a small budget to promote his song. Well done Jonas. Now send me that fella's number :)

Single Selection: Rune RK & Databoy ~ Memorize Me / Nick Hagelin ~ X Games

2012-01-17T23:30:00.000-08:00

I'd started a few blogs this week and then abandoned them halfway through not feeling particularly excited about any new music. The new Alexandra Burke single is alright isn't it, but nothing really to write home (or a blog) about. Anyway, this morning a new video popped up on the VEVO home page and lo and behold (whatever that means), if it wasn't an upcoming group i'm already highly excited about. Add to that a deliriously good new song from one of my fave upcoming fellas and I was suddenly drowning in an embarrassment of musical riches! Read on my lovelies and admire all the amazing music contained within :)

Rune RK & Databoy:

I first got very excited indeed about handsome chappies Databoy several times during 2011, most notably because of their still insanely good song Just Once. It then all went a bit quiet but luckily they have come storming back onto the scene with a blistering new anthem called Memorize Me. Teaming up with Rune RK, they've created an inspiring dance tune that is full of pulsating beats, seductive synths and a chorus that urges "you're gonna memorize me, you're gonna know my name". On it's own, that would be an amazing tune that shines through the wintry clouds and brushes the winter cobwebs away in a glittering display of club-pop magnificence. However, it's a lyrically optimistic and uplifting tune about standing up for what you believe in and being counted. In the context of the running amok at gay pride video(with two of the most adorable cheeky tykes I've ever seen), it's putting forward a message about how people need to see the person, not just a statistic or a label. After all we're all individuals with unique hopes, dreams, desires and urges. A brilliant piece of work that just soars - and I hope is leading to an upcoming album (or at least more music) from the Databoys very shortly...

Nick Hagelin:

Nick Hagelin - X Games by Nick Hagelin

Young Nick worked his arse off in 2011, giving us a very good indeed EP, lots of pleasant cover version videos which let his personality and sense of humour shine, and also shaved his pop star hair off to give him an older, edgier look (and to presumably stop him getting hat hair in the winter!) Anyway, he's back with a brand new tune called X Games and it's different to anything he's attempted before. It all kicks off with a slightly echo-ey vibe, like he's in a submarine or something, while he sings falsetto to his strumming guitar. It's a slow build into this seductive and sensual chorus, where his lower register vocals (and uh huhs) shine through, complementing the quiet storm nature of this insiduous, persistent r'n'b groove. Nick as a storyteller, a narrator of his inner most diary thoughts works incredibly well - the spoken rap bits complement the sung lyrics & aren't abrasive in the nature of the song. A real leap forward from an already high standard of musical and lyrical performance. Tremendous.

Coming Thurs - a scandi-pop video breakdown!!

Weekend Supplement ~ 15th January 2011: Self Made Men (& The Music That Drives Them)

2012-01-15T07:08:00.000-08:00

I was listening to some new music this weekend and it struck me that all the songs were by artists who has eschewed the current music business model (for whatever reason) and managed to produce music that marches to the beat of their own drum (so to speak). In doing so, I'm amazed on what they achieve on a probably limited budget, constantly stunned by the high quality of the tunes released & glad that they have enough of a following to make it all worthwhile. That's not to say that they have enough people purchasing their songs - far from it. So here are updates & the latest tunes from some of my fave self made musicians...

Luke Leighfield ~ One Thing: Another week, another Luke Leighfield song. While I'm still more than smitten with Garde Te Foy, this new track serves as the first single proper from his forthcoming album New Season. It may have the same title as the new One Direction single, but the similarities end there. It may not have been purposely written as a track to listen to in the new year when a person is naturally reminiscent and reflective, but it works well in that context. Part of the lyrical content of the song deals with the things in the world that seem to continue to spiral out of control (despite all the reasons they should be under control, e.g. famine, etc) while linking that to that one person in your life that is your constant, your love, your soul mate. The one person who helps you cope with the day to day rigours of every day life. It's all set to a crashing backdrop of gorgeous piano, gentle harmonies, layered guitars and a stirring chorus that sends your soul soaring. Bring on that brilliant chanted rousing finale because it's genuinely showstopping and awe-inspiring. Essential music for any time of the year...(and even more amazingly, the only way to buy this song is to order a nice mug, a fairtrade tea bag & the receive a download code. IMMENSE!)

Dave Patten ~ Just For Me: I don't really know when Dave Patten sleeps. He writes, sings, produces and does all the videos for all his music, in addition to having produced 7 albums in about 5 years and do some great collaborations with other artists. 2012 sees Dave preparing for a new album entitled Gone and this is the first single from that upcoming opus. Seeing as Dave's last video saw him being bound, gagged and witnessing a murder, this is a far more joyous, celebratory, optimistic affair that dazzles & entertains from the first note. It's set over jangly guitars, a groove laden beat, stacatto horn blasts and an engaging vocal from Dave that sees him switch between soulful singing & rapidfire lyric delivery. A sweetly delivered, stripped back middle 8 really allows the song to breathe before it fires back for another round of exuberant singalong chorus. It's encapsulated the sound of spring and it's impossible not to feel good while listening to this. Brilliant way to launch the new album - can't wait to hear it. (Oh and apparently a video for this song should be with us soon!) Now grab the one you love and shimmy...

Escort Knights ~ Heartstrings: The last time I saw Escort Knights they were busy space hopping around Leeds in one of 2011's most entertaining videos. They are now back with a brand new single Heartstrings, which is an absolute corker of a track and guaranteed to demolish those wintry blues that may be lingering after the holiday period. One of the best bands I know for fusing together indie-cool with dancefloor beats, Heartstrings is no exception and is a blistering assault on the senses. Amidst the swirling and somewhat hypnotic Daft Punk-esque synths, there is an insistent (and persistent) beat, combined with some gorgeous 90s house-piano chords and intoxicating sound effects. Add to this distinctive vocals and a chorus that worms it's way into your synapses and refuses to leave and you've got an audio thrill from start to finish. As if this wasn't enough, they've only gone and put a dance cover of Seal's Kiss For A Rose on the flip side. It completely reinvents the song as a rave-esque anthem and completely works. It's all out on valentine's day, so mark your calendars because trust me - you won't want to miss out on this!

Top 21 songs of the week:

21 ~ Shona White & Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
20 ~ The Feeling, Leave Me Out Of It
19 ~ Eric Saade, Hotter Than Fire
18 ~ Leona Lewis, Hurt
17 ~ Magnus Carlsson, Arrival
16 ~ Darren Hayes, Black Out The Sun
15 ~ Kelly Clarkson, Stronger
14 ~ One Direction, One Thing
13 ~ Scissor Sisters, Shady Love (NE)
12 ~ Neo, Fighting The Dark (NE)
11 ~ JLS, Do You Feel What I Feel?
10 ~ Little Mix, Cannonball
09 ~ Le Kid, Human Behaviour (NE)
08 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War
07 ~ The Overtones, Say What I Feel
06 ~ Youngblood, Blame It On You
05 ~ Auryn, Favourite Guy
04 ~ Little Jackie, 31 Flavours
03 ~ Madonna, Masterpiece
02 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo (Video)
01 ~ Jason Mraz, I Won't Give Up (2 Weeks)

2011 Revisited (part two) ~ Judie Tzuke, Slow Moving Millie & Debbie Gibson!

2012-01-14T07:47:00.000-08:00

Ee by gum, I'm still proper behind on some glorious but criminally overlooked (by me) releases from 2011 (and a little bit before). That doesn't mean these excellent albums don't deserve a place on your iPod/chosen mp3 player of choice. I'll try to be more up to date soon I promise :)

Judie Tzuke ~ One Tree Less:

I adore Judie Tzuke. There is something both beguiling and captivating about her music, whether it be her honest (sometimes brutally and devastatingly so) lyrics, her emotive delivery or her ability to create an always pleasing instrumental to underscore the whole package. Her new album, One Tree Less, is a collection of brand new tunes that further her musical accomplishments and provide the listener with an engaging, thought provoking experience. The album launches with the title track, which has an organic, almost tribal feel to it's instrumental and flows beautifully. It's almost musical art as the instruments act as a canvas to Judie's story, which details the end of a relationship and the effect it has. It's a solid set up to an album that is relentless in it's quality. While every track is an absolute winner, some highlights for me including the stunning Just You and I (a haunting declaration of love ballad with an ethereal middle 8 that enhances but never overpowers the song); Joy (a more urgent, thrusting tune with heavenly backing vocals & heartbreaking lyrics, detailing the regret and recriminations that often come through life's lessons); & The Truth (a plaintive plea for honesty despite the hurt it may cause. Some truly beautiful piano intricately weaves alongside Judie's flawless vocal to create the most spellbinding tune on the album). By the time you get to the fragile delicacy of the final song, Til It's Over, you feel like you've had a peek at some of the most intimate moments of Judie's inner thoughts. It's an emotional tour de force, but it's a journey you are more than glad you have taken. Can't wait to see the tour in Worcester in April...

Slow Moving Millie ~ Renditions:

Slow Moving Millie came to prominence as the soundtrack to the sickly-sweet-but-it's-Christmas-so-it's-really-charming festive advert from John Lewis. Her piano driven version of Please Please Let Me Get What I Want was both elegantly delivered and appropriately sad blended with hopeful. Her delivery is both vulnerable and charming, and I wondered how an album of interpretative cover versions might hold up. Very well as it happens as most of Renditions transforms well known songs into completely new versions. Take the 80s indie of the original Hold Me Now which now becomes a Spector-esque, tambourine tapping wall of sound tune that Little Mix in their wildest dreams couldn't hope to replicate as well. Similarly the Tears For Fears classic Head Over Heels becomes an intimate, morose poem, slow burning into a more dramatic rendition of the tune - like musical alchemy, Millie's voice weaves a spell through your speakers until you are entirely smitten. Her brave version of Don't Go turns into a cabaret-esque Moulin Rouge worthy performance, with clever use of different sounds to build this passion fuelled vaudevillian tale. However, while all of the album is just a delight, I have to say my favourite tune is the wonderful version of Bananarama's Love In The First Degree that turns the beloved camp classic into an orchestral, sweeping declaration of love. The piano work on the track is a glorious mix of chords and notes that work together to provide a stunning backdrop for the most hypnotic vocal on the album. I'm dying to see what 2012 brings for this talented artist...

Debbie Gibson ~ Ms Vocalist:

There was a gap of 7 years between Coloured Lights and her latest album, Ms Vocalist (and it's been 11 years now since her last album of original material was released, the still amazing MYOB), so you really have to hold onto what music you get from the 80s Britney Spears (only without the car crash life). Ms Vocalist is a collection of pop songs famous in Japan, presented here with English lyrics and (obviously) sung by Debbie Gibson. The biggest accomplishment of this album is that Debbie makes the songs sound like they are standards from her own library of self penned tunes from across her varied career. Whether it be the quiet sincerity of ballad I Love You where as always Debbie shines with an understated piano & vocal ballad (and is one of the finest vocal performances on the album), or the similarly romantic Tsunami (where the power ballad chorus can't fail to have you hold your lighter in the air), they may be Japanese in origin, but are pure Debbie Gibson at the core of the delivery. Say Yes is a more playful romp, perfect for Valentine Day proposals with it's propulsive, shuffling instrumentation and a joyful vocal from Debbie; likewise the glorious However is more representative of the 80s Debbie people may be more aware of - it has an energetic vibe and a positive uplifting message to it.The album is perhaps most like her Think With Your Heart set (not her biggest seller but beloved by fans) and comes with both a Japanese & English reworking of her 1989 number one, Lost In Your Eyes (the Japanese version is actually a real treat and very well delivered). For hard core fans, be sure to hunt down Without You (an Anything is Possible era track co-written by a Japanese singersongwriter) & Potrait of Loneliness (a mid 00s Japanese cover she did that isn't on this set). A hidden gem that deserves more recognition...

Coming Sunday - self made men and their latest pop songs!

Returning Faves: What they're doing now...

2012-01-11T23:00:00.000-08:00

I'm quite loyal, me. I'll stick with an act for ages if they've given me even the slightest bit of decent pop in the past. However, the up and comers of today's post are acts that have piqued my interest quite a deal over the past couple of years in some way or another. So I thought to myself - Paul, I thought, what are these fella me lads (and a lady) up to in the new year of 2012? Well here is what my research/stalking found out...

ASTON ~ T.H.E

Lord luv a duck. Spectacular classical instrumentalists, Aston (most recently of stunning Monster Symphony fame) have teamed up R&B group Ahmir to add some vocals to their already delectable ability to make any song sound utterly sensuous and sensational at the same time. This time it's a combo cover of the will.i.am tune alongside the LMFAO track Party Rock Anthem. Because that is exactly what you'd expect a classical music group to be attempting :D The result is a successful and spinetingling fusion of genres and sounds that demands repeat viewings to take everything in. There's the swelling strings, the intricate yet powerful piano riffs, crashing percussion and complementary guitar - all delivered with a passion and intensity that really shines forth in each note delivered. Add to this the flawless harmonies and smooth vocals of Ahmir, vocals that contrast beautifully with the music, yet are never overpowered or marginalised. Wonderfully executed, it's the first real giddy treat of 2012. Do check out more of Ahmir by the way. Their candlelight version of We Found Love brings a whole new nuance to the song...

ELOUISE ~ NATIONAL TOUR!!

Following on from her successful Madame JoJos residency (which continues, London based residency fans!) and her sparkling Santa's Little Belter spin off, Elouise is hopping on the road this spring hoping to bring her delicious stage show to a whole new audience. You can see from the you tubeage all the dates and details, but what is most fandabbydozzy about the clip above is a whole new version of Vogue seems to be on the cards. It's been blended together with a Shirley Bassey-esque version of Get This Party Started and given camp as a carry on movie new lyrics of the rappy middle 8 that I fully approve of ("Bette Midler, we love you!"). So grab your sparkliest of sparkly shoes, vajazzle yourself up in whatever bodily area you chose (!), spray yourself with glitter and get down to one of these shows. Oh, and if Get This Vogue Started isn't available to buy soon, I will absolutely combust. Just a warning :D

POB ~ SHOUT IT OUT LOUD:

Shout It Out Loud by Pob Official

While I was in Vegas, Boy Banned disbanneded! This was very selfish of them as I was quite enjoying Stars Are Saying Yes, not realising they had actually said no and I may not get to see Adam looking flustered in a suit anytime soon :P Anyway, while Ethan is busy greasing up his pecs for the launch of his solo career, Pob is proper prepared and has already launched his teaser song, Shout It Out Loud onto the public. What you get from this track is an insistent club thumper with some banging drums, a confident vocal delivery and a memorable hook that is firmly embedded in your brain by the time you reach the end of the song. It's almost like a somewhat more upbeat Cry Me A River (JT) updated for the modern day pop audience - certainly Britney would kill for a song like this. So yes, it's all going swimmingly so far for Pob. 2 things though - 1) I preferred his look in stars are saying yes to his webpage photo and 2) i do like the fact that if you turn his POB logo upside down it essentially reads GOD... :)

DEREK DARKER ~ STANDING ALONE:

Standing Alone(Ep Demo) by DerekDarker

He's been a prince and a rogue (what is Ashley up to these days?!) but he's managing just fine as Derek Darker, now ably assisted by collaborator and guitarist, BG. Derek premiered this track as part of his video christmas card and the demo version is equally as lovely. Just him and a guitar, the lyrics flow along with the music building gently but firmly until the drums kick in and the song takes on a new energy. It's a testament to the burgeoning talents of all involved and it's no wonder Derek is building up quite the following online. Based on this track, I'm looking forward to hearing more from the charming Mr Darker as 2012 progresses...

Single selection: Moves Like Schlager...

2012-01-10T23:30:00.000-08:00

Ok, ok, not all (any) of these amazing new singles are schlager, but I liked the title and didn't have anything else to use it with so I just went with it. I like to call it artistic license. Or it could be that these new chinos which seemed a lot baggier in the store when i tried them on last week are cutting off circulation, making me hallucinate. They have turned into leggings / budgie smugglers and with my chunkier than a chunky kit kat thighs, it is not a good look. Let's not dwell, on with the merriment...

Ace new singles:

Le Kid ~ Human Behaviour: Scream! Le Kid are back already! While I'm still smitten with their almost greatest hits like first album, Oh Alright, a new song is a more than welcome treat. On twitter, they state it is a between album treat, and what a giddy little dance nugget it is too. It purrs into life with a seductive and sensual opening bracket, that not only references ONJ classic Let's Get Physical but is the most alluring intro to a song since Gwen Stefani's What You Waiting For. And like that song, it then explodes in a shower of shimmering glitter into a pulsating, vibrant, synth driven, bass lead anthem. It's all thoroughly enjoyable, effortlessly catchy and once again, showcases what a tour de force Le Kid are in providing some of the most amazing pop tunes in recent years. Delicious. My recommendation? Play loud and often alongside Madonna's Hung Up, Eric Saade's It's Gonna Rain and BWO's Lay Your Love On Me. Tremendulent.
Scissor Sisters vs Krystal Pepsy ~ Shady Love: Oh my. Be prepared fellow Scissters as it's a brand new dawn for our intrepid heroes and it's almost like NightWork never happened. It's initially quite jarring, like when Madonna went all "on-trend" (ish) with 4 Minutes, but stick with it and there's a catchy charm hidden within this million miles an hour breakneck tune. By far the best bits are when Jake gets all falsetto on the catchphrase "shady love", however, the more I listen, the more I love Jake rapping about some bitch from Boston who dances to Madonna. Sure it's got every current trend and the kitchen sink in the tune, but ultimately it's a new sounding Scissor Sisters, yet it's still unmistakeably at it's core the Scissor Sisters you know and love.

Another Saturday Night by antonleuba

Anton Leuba ~ Another Saturday Night: A song that is described as "a post apocolyptic night time anthem with a killer chorus" is bound to get my interest. And what a tune it is. Set over a hypnotic, persistent beat with some stabbing synth chords, Anthony ably creates a world that's a little bit bleary, tinged with regret, but also laced with optimism. And quite the musical reward it is too - the stark nature of the track allows Anthony's vocals to take front and centre, & these are also layered with a hammond-esque church organ and a morose yet compelling choir. The vivid imagery of the lyrics and invasive nature of the tune all equal a song that is not your average pop tune, but just as essential and gratifying. More please young sir, much much more...
Neo ~ Fighting The Dark: Hurrah! It's the return of Neo who over the past few years has provided some very amazing pop moments, not least Super Flower Power Girl, Human Frontier and Toxicated Love. This continues very much in the vein of the latter and is excitingly co-written by Andreas of Gravitonas & Charlie Mason (whose name appears on more pop songs than you may realise). Crashing drums, gothic beats and a soaring rock-influenced chorus all make this a somewhat sombre, downbeat tune but no less brilliant for this fact. Neo of course is in fine vocal fettle. The layered vocals and boombastic nature of the ending are goose bumpingly amazing and bodes extremely well for his forthcoming album, Reborn (which you can preview here). ACE.

2011 revisited (part one) ~ The Feeling / Take That

2012-01-09T08:41:00.000-08:00

It's barely 2012 and already I'm thinking, blimey there were some albums I neglected in 2011 that deserve a bit of a retrial. A couple (todays offerings) I purposely held back from as it was additional material offered alongside fairly current albums from the acts concerned. The other two (tomorrow's offerings) are acts that I like (one I love) but whose albums I didn't spend enough time with and am rediscovering now. OK, enough waffle, on with the words!!

Take That ~ Progressed:

Considering my love for Take That, and the critical outpouring of adoration for Progress, it's somewhat amazing that I stuck to my resolve to not get into Progressed until 2012. It was released 6-7 months into the Progress campaign at a time when I thought a few more singles could have been marketed from that album (most notably, SOS and the dreamy 8 Letters). Progressed appeared as an 8 track EP (what constitutes an album and what constitutes an EP is a whole other conversation!) with the kicky lead off single Love Love (featuring in X Men: First Class) neatly slotting alongside the Progress sound. Indeed, much of Progressed feels like a natural progression of Progress. The nostalgic opener When We Were Young is possibly the most pre-Progress sounding of the bunch, yet is a great track that deserved a much better video than it actually got. There's some forward thinking industrial electro on Man which is balanced by the tear jerking ballad Don't Say Goodbye, which is Gazza at his heart wrenching finest. Viewed as a separate album that deserves it's own campaign (a la Fame Monster), this is a bonkers but brilliant piece of work that is a fine addition to the Take That canon of music.
Suggested singles: Love Love, When We Were Young, Man, Don't Say Goodbye...

The Feeling ~ Together We Were Made (The Bees):

It took long enough for The Feeling to unleash their 3rd album proper onto the world (Disc one of Together We Were Made, also entitled The Birds) so I feel justified in saving their bonus disc of work from these sessions for a whole new album of harmonised goodness! Like Take That, they could have extended their marketing of the "main" album by choosing Leave Me Out Of it and Dance With The Lights (in addition to kicking off the album campaign much earlier with the disco swirl of Searched Every Corner), but as the hastily released Greatest Hits attests, their star is sadly on the wane. Saving this disc as their fourth album may serve me well while I wait for them to get their groove back. The highlight for me from this album is their deliriously crazy duet with Betty Boo on Virtually Art, which seems to just pogo forth from the speakers. This contrasts nicely with the bombastic nature of tracks such as Easier Said Than Done & Over and Over, both of which soar, giving the band a slightly rockier edge than previous efforts. Be sure to add their reverent and recent cover of Rocket Man to this album's tracklist for more 70s inspired MOR-rock/pop goodness :)

New Year, new music w/ Luke Leighfield, Jon Spanyol, Capital Cities

2012-01-08T01:27:00.000-08:00

Hurrah. I am finally back from The Vegas. You can view some of the good times that rolled here, here, here and here. Aren't you honoured?! Anyway, a jolly good time was had by all and I'm now busy catching up on important things I missed like Dr Who, Ab Fab, Downton Abbey and Sherlock! Aces. In the meantime (and inbetween time - ooo ancient The Party reference there!) here are some songs that I started playing a lot while I was in The Vegas once I had banished Christmas tunes from my playlist on New Year's Day...

Luke Leighfield ~ Garde Ta Foy: Trust Luke Leighfield, whose music I am already smitten with, to come up with something so enchanting, mesmerising and beautiful and yet make it all seem so effortless. His first track from new album (New Season due this year) is a piano driven, emotive tour de force. The first four lines of lyrics alone are a devstating emotional gut punch, exquisitely delivered with a hint of sadness but most importantly with a tinge of optimism. Luke's voice blends perfectly with the delicate piano line, like a brook laconically running over perfect polished pebbles and is nothing less than hypnotic. It quietly and elegantly builds the optimism, the 'firework display' until the refrain of "are you ready for a new season?" explodes into a cavalcade of guitars, synths and drums that lend to the swell of emotion you feel in line with the song. It's an epic song that deserves massive success. Utterly delightful. And do check out the video that goes with it above. Simply brilliant.
Jon Spanyol ~ Ignorance Is Bliss: I am a bit behind with writing about the wonderful Jon Spanyol, but surely this will make up for it. Ignorance is Bliss is from Jon's album Pick A Card (which by the way is very good indeed and made for a Vegas residency) and is a jaunty number set over punchy chords with a theme of just accepting yourself for who you are. The chorus is a quirky delight and there are some heavenly piano riffs interspersed throughout the song. It crescendos into a rousing rollicking horny good time - you'll find yourself singing along and fingerclicking with a massive smile on your face. And let's face it - sometimes that is what music is all about...

Capital Cities ~ Holiday: One can't beat a celebratory cover version of the already joyous Madonna classic to ring in the new year. Capital Cities (of the excellent track Safe and Sound fame) have done just that with a version that is reverent enough that it keeps all the bits you loved about the original (such as the glorious spinning synths at the start and that playful baseline) yet added enough of their own charm to make it indelibly Capital Cities. It's a knowing tip of the hat to the still queen of pop, yet a delightful introduction to one of the most charming additions to pop in the past couple of years. Love the absolutely bonkers ending too :) More please Mr and Mr Capital Cities :) More!
Jason Mraz ~ I Won't Give Up: It's not secret that I love most everything that Mr A-Z touches and the follow up to the inspirational World As I See It is no exception. I Won't Give Up effortlessly slides to the top of my playlist this week and is a somewhat heartbreaking tune about a failed relationship. It's ever so delicately delivered over a whispering backing track and an earnest yet powerful vocal from the man himself. It builds into a celebration of what made the relationship (and Jason) so successful and why this love is so worth fighting for. The addition of backing vocalists towards the end of the track is a giddy treat that give it a theatrical feel. Be prepared to hear much much more of this track everywhere in 2012. And deservedly so...

Top 21 songs of the week:

21 ~ Boy Banned, Stars Are Saying Yes
20 ~ Elouise, Dear Santa
19 ~ Darren Hayes, Black Out The Sun (NE)
18 ~ Olly Murs, Dance With me Tonight
17 ~ Kelly Clarkson, What Doesn't Kill You (NE)
16 ~ The Feeling, Leave Me Out Of It
15 ~ One Direction, One Thing
14 ~ Shona White & Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
13 ~ JLS, Do You Feel What I Feel?
12 ~ Leona Lewis, Hurt
11 ~ Eric Saade, Hotter Than Fire
10 ~ Little Mix, Cannonball
09 ~ Magnus Carlsson, Arrival
08 ~ Youngblood, Blame It On You
07 ~ Auryn, Favourite Guy
06 ~ Little Jackie, 31 Flavours (NE)
05 ~ The Overtones, Say What I Feel (VIDEO)
04 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War
03 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
02 ~ Madonna, Masterpiece
01 ~ Jason Mraz, I Won't Give Up (NE/ONE WEEK)

Happy New Year :)

2011-12-31T00:30:00.000-08:00

There is nothing I like better each new year's eve than to get in at least 5-6 viewings of the gorgeous video above from Abba. Not only is the song entirely reminiscent, melancholic and wistful, but the "abba round a piano" performance from 1980 has a certain sadness to it when you consider that the world's finest ever pop group was soon to disband. regardless, it's an entirely beautiful song and one that has lasted through the ages. Below are a few more "time of the year" songs for your new year's celebrations. And may 2012 bring you all health, wealth and happiness! Mazel tov!

2011 NEW YEAR SONGS:

Magnus Carlsson ~ Arrival: It's an Abba instrumental, with new lyrics from Benny that were originally sung by Sarah Brightman, but now covered ably by Christmas (and presumably new year) loving Swedish all round good guy, Magnus Carlsson. Phew! Regardless of all the history, this is a lovely, elegant and stately tune with an almost pa rup pa pum little drummer boy beat, gorgeous floating instruments that give the song a real wintry flowing feel & of course those optimistic, hopeful lyrics that Magnus sings so well. Equally pop as it is broadway, I just love this pretty, inspiring tune :)

Lea Michele ~ Auld Lang Syne: Part of me can't help but think that nothing will top the camp rave of Mariah's 2010 discotastic version to ring in the new year. However, if you are looking for a different vibe to ring in 2012, you could do a lot worse that Lea Michele's Auld Lang Syne (from movie soundtrack New Year's Eve). It starts off very stripped back and beautiful before adding some layers and power to the proceedings, mirroring the oncoming swell of anticipation that approaches as the new year ticks ever so closer. Ever so dignified, ever so delightful.

Top 21 songs of the week:

21 ~ Same Difference, Music
20 ~ William Young, Come On
19 ~ Marit Larsen, Coming Home
18 ~ One Direction, One Thing (NE)
17 ~ JLS, Do You Feel What I Feel? (NE)
16 ~ JLS, Take A Chance On Me
15 ~ Olly Murs, Dance With Me Tonight
14 ~ Auryn, Favourite Guy (NE)
13 ~ Youngblood, Blame It On You (NE)
12 ~ Leona Lewis, Hurt
11 ~ Shona White & Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
10 ~ Magnus Carlsson, Arrival
09 ~ Eric Saade, Hotter Than Fire
08 ~ The Feeling, Leave Me Out Of It
07 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
06 ~ The Overtones, Say What I Feel
05 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War
04 ~ Boy Banned, Stars Are Saying Yes
03 ~ Little Mix, Cannonball
02 ~ Madonna, Masterpiece
01 ~ Elouise, Dear Santa (5 weeks)

HAPPY NEW YEAR ONE & ALL :D

Single selection ~ A Very Boy Band Playlist...

2011-12-28T00:30:00.000-08:00

Greetings one and all. I hope you had a lovely Christmas. I did. Well I'm assuming I did, but as I am currently (as you read this) in Las Vegas, I am writing this prior to Christmas and therefore referencing it as if it was in the past, rather than in the future. Which you are currently reading this, and I am in the present typing it up, but now, as you read it, am in the past. How Doctor Who ever gets made is beyond me... Anyway, to shake me out of my post Christmas blues, I have created a jolly decent boy band playlist of their latest singles/should be singles. Good to listen to, and you can usually find someone nice to look at amongst this motley crew :)

A VERY BOY BAND PLAYLIST:

JLS ~ Do You Feel What I Feel: I'm a bugger for playing Christmas music far longer than I should, so JLS have kindly come up with a brilliant yet kind way to ween me off it. Standing somewhere between Club Is Alive bonkersosity and Take A Chance On Me charm is the third single from their current album - it's essentially a cover / tribute / christmas song sample of Do You Hear What I Hear, but rather than be about celebrating the birth of Jesus, it's about celebrating the birth of an erection because they have seen some shawty in a little dress at a club. which is probably alive. I mock, but it's actually rather good. Will they ever release a fourth single from an album?? Time will tell...
Auryn ~ Favourite Guy: Oh how my Auryn boys can do absolutely no wrong with me at the moment. They haven't announced their third single from Endless Road yet but they could do a lot worse than this little gem. It has an off kilter beat, some finger clicking fun, confident vocals and a brilliant chorus that is some of the best boyband chorusing since Take That unleashed Shine upon the world. and when they are performing, they genuinely look like they are having such a good time singing - and that's always important to me. Stand by to be stunned...
The Wanted ~ Warzone: What confuses me about The Wanted's second album campaign is that they kicked it off with a couple of giddy hedonistic dance anthems, released the album and then harped on about how they were going to put out a special edition of the album in 2012. This sort of put me off buying it as I'd rather get the new (ie, probably better) tracks they are working on. Anyway, this is the more sombre side of The Wanted. Not my favourite track of theirs but certainly not a poor showing :)

Youngblood ~ Blame It On You: I've written about this new Swedish boyband before, but now there's an accompanying video to their perky debut single Blame It On You. It has more of a vein of One Direction and Auryn than JLS & The Wanted, but that's more than ok as the jangly guitar based song has a real charm to it. I can't wait to see what they offer up for eurovision. Altogether now, oh oh oh blame it on you, blame it on you!! Brillz.
One Direction ~ One Thing (Acoustic): Let's strip One Direction, uh, back for a little while with this acoustic version of their upcoming single, One Thing. This version heavily focuses on the medley and the blending of the boys voices, which reminds me of their rather glorious time on the x'factor. Lovely version of what no doubt will be another big smash for them...
Westlife ~ Beautiful World: Ah and so the best new song from the final greatest hits collection gets it's time in the sun. It's suitably melancholic, reflective, wistful, optimistic and anthemic; they sound in fine a form vocally as ever and it's another wonderful credit to Mark Feehily's increasingly impressive writing portfolio - a fitting end to one of the most enduring boy band careers England has ever seen. Sniffle...

Best of 2011 ~ Singles of the year part two (The top ten!)

2011-12-23T00:30:00.000-08:00

Well without my usual fanfare of introduction-ness, here it is! My top ten singles of 2011!! Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight (or something!!)

TOP TEN SONGS OF 2011:

10 ~ The Feeling, Set My World On Fire: There was something engagingly familiar about this tune that saw the return of The Feeling after a far too long break. Their precision harmonies, their knack for creating a huge stadium bound chorus that will sound just as delightful in the most intimate of concert halls, & their ability to produce a layered instrumentation that keeps on giving. I was smitten from the first note til the last chord...

09 ~ The Overtones, Second Last Chance: What a year it has been for The Overtones. This self penned track was a highlight of the platinum edition of their Good Ol' Fashioned Love album - zinging with as much pep & energy as Michael Buble's massive hit Haven't Met You Yet, it should have been equally as big a chart smash. Massive things are occurring for this vocal harmony group. Can't wait to see what's next...

08 ~ Auryn, Breathe Into The Light: A sterling debut single from new Spanish boy band Auryn, which was penned by Dannii Minogue approved X factor alumni, Ruth Lorenzo. And what a brilliant tune it is. Charming Spanish accents give a lovely mediterranean vibe to this soaring, anthemic treat that wormed it's way into my brain and hasn't quite been purged yet. Plus they aren't exactly ugly to look at either, are they??

07 ~ Rochella Danishei/Simon Curtis ~ Wicked Baby: And lo, so it came to pass that in the last few months of 2011, Simon managed to guarantee a 5th year in my top ten singles of the year countdown with this amazing, Ace of Base inspired duet with Rochella. Bouncing along like a rubber ball, it's a deliriously giddy treat that is juxtaposed with it's dark yet "forbidden fruit"-esque subject matter. More like this please...

06 ~ Sara Ramirez, The Story: Well blooming nora. It was a track from the on-paper-a-horrible-idea musical episode of Grey's Anatomy that took me by surprise. It had stirring yet relatable lyrics, a stunning melody but most of all such a powerhouse, emotive vocal performance from Sara that she took this cover version and completely made it her own song. I still get goosebumps listening to it now...

05 ~ Eric Saade, Popular: His confident yet not cocky call to arms certainly came true in 2011. He will be popular and he most certainly is. Currently my fave male popstar on the planet, this eurovision entry very nearly took the crown - no matter that it didn't, because even without the hoopla of that festival, the song is an instant pop classic that deserves much wider success across the globe. I doubt Eric will rest at just being massive in Europe though...

04 ~ Maroon 5, Moves Like Jagger: Take that Cher Lloyd! Who knew that the most insinuating and unforgettable hook of 2011 wouldn't come via swagger jagger but a massive return to form (& chart success) for one of my fave bands, Maroon 5. Everything about this song worked - the almost sweaty nature of the song, the ridiculous yet amazing chorus and Christina belting it out for a few moments in the middle 8. Totally revived, I can only expect amazingness now from Adam and the boys...

03 ~ Gravitonas ft Roma Kenga, Everybody Dance: Gravitonas have never steered me wrong yet. Each of their singles, bar the debut Kites, has topped my most listened to songs of the week at some point or other. Their team up with Russian popstar Roma gave us their most out and out pop moment to date. But even out and out pop from Gravitonas is a bonkers riot & this for me was one of the most endearing (and enduring) dance smashes of the year...

02 ~ Eric Saade ft Dev, Hotter Than Fire: And the fine run of singles from Eric just refuses to quit. His lead off single for Saade Vol 2. took all the amazing bits of songs like Popular, Made of Pop, It's Gonna Rain, et al, amped up the dance factor, pumped up the chorus and everything seemed just that bit better, faster, harder, sleeker. This boy is gonna go far and I can't wait to see him live at some point next year...

01 ~ Bright Light x2, Disco Moment: Sigh. Was there a more perfect, reflective, heartbreaking yet totally danceable moment of pop music this year? The answer to that rhetorical question is no, there was not. Disco Moment was a complete breath of fresh air, one of those songs that seems perfect to me from start to finish and one I have played a ludicrous amount of times & still not tired of. Rod sounds absolutely glorious on it, injecting just the right amount of sentiment and emotion into the song. Spellbinding music. Can I have an album now please?

Top 21 songs of the week (Christmas chart):

21 ~ Auryn, Last Night On Earth
20 ~ Indigo Girls, We Get To Feel It All
19 ~ Nerina Pallot, Butterfly
18 ~ William Young, Come On
17 ~ Erasure, Be With You
16 ~ Same Difference, Music
15 ~ Leona Lewis, Hurt
14 ~ Marit Larsen, Coming Home
13 ~ Olly Murs, Dance With Me Tonight
12 ~ JLS, Take A Chance On Me
11 ~ The Feeling, Leave Me Out Of It
10 ~ Magnus Carlsson, Arrival (NE/VIDEO)
09 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War
08 ~ Shona White ft Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
07 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
06 ~ The Overtones, Say What I Feel
05 ~ Eric Saade ft Dev, Hotter Than Fire
04 ~ Boy Banned, Stars Are Saying Yes
03 ~ Little Mix, Cannonball
02 ~ Madonna, Masterpiece
01 ~ Elouise, Dear Santa (4 weeks)

The sixth annual Myfizzypop Online Christmas Card...

2011-12-22T04:40:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas I do, as you will probably know considering I gush harder than a snowmageddon blizzard about it. Not to get all Love, Actually on your arses, but I do think it's something to do with the fact that it does feel like love, actually is all around at this time of year. There is something quite magical about the build up to Christmas where it seems people are a little nicer, a little happier and there's a general feeling of hope & optimism in the air. That's how I choose to view it anyway, as cheesy as that sounds, so here's my online Christmas card to you :) It will be updated all week (with a contribution from me coming at some point) and I thank all those who agreed to take part. Merci Beaucoup!!

AN ELEGANT CHRISTMAS WITH ELOUISE:

What can I say about the magnificent Elouise that I haven't said a million times already? Do check out my top albums and singles of the year posts for lots of gushing about her talents, and for the second year in a row she's topping my most played song of Christmas week with Dear Santa (last year, the heartbreaking You'll Never Walk Alone). Above you will see an exclusive performance of Silent Night, with some stunning piano, lovely arrangement and of course a gutwrenching, tear jerking vocal from Elouise. Love that the whole Little Belter gang comes on at the end to say merry christmas, with a classic line from Sir Terry of Ronald :) Pause at exactly 2m56s for a joyous picture postcard of what Christmas should be about - loved ones having a rip roaring time. AWESOME. Check out Elouise's webpage for lots of song clips and show info :)

WINTER WARMINGS FROM GRAVITONAS:

Oh Gravitonas, you cheeky scamps. I particularly like the boozy vodka fuelled nature of the card, the boy kisses (of course) and that final anti-festive greeting from Andreas :) Brilliant. Do check out their very amazing singles they unleashed on the public this year - Everybody Dance and Lucky Star. Both entirely splendiferous...

LORDS A LEAPING WITH JAMES LEON:

Oh let me count the ways I enjoy James Leon :D So many! I love that he can just pop up on video with his rugged man chest and still manage to sound utterly charming & engaging while wishing everyone a very merry Christmas indeed. And oh James, no cheesy plug needed my man - I'll do it for you. His tip top notch album Never Been Cool is out to purchase across the universe now, and it features my very favourite song of his - the once and future smash Club With No Name. Ace-icles!

YULETIDE CHEER WITH ELI LIEB:

Hot (in all senses of the word) new pop dude on the block, Eli Lieb has put together a simple, restrained, elegant and beautiful version of the always heartwarming Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. I love the way his rock infused voice brings an added grittiness and raw authenticity to the lyrics, giving the tune a real organic feel. if you are impressed (and I have no doubt you are), hunt down his rather aces single Place of Paradise. It can be a little pre-Christmas gift to yourself...

NAKED NUTMEG FROM OSVALDO SUPINO:

Ooo saucy! Osvaldo gets his nude on for the festive season, giving a tantalising glimpse into the world of the Italian pop star :) Amazing! It's perky and nippular and all you could want from a seasonal greeting. Do be sure to download Osvaldo's new EP & view his horny new video, When I Think About Sex.

GETTING ORIGINAL WITH DEREK DARKER & BG:

He's a prince and a rogue that Derek Darker. I've become a bit smitten with his and his trusty guitarist's regular influx of cover versions on Derek's youtube channel (see here). I think my favourite is his Cher Lloyd-Jason DeRulo mash up. Not only are there jolly greetings in the video above, but a brand new song called Standing Alone that is a downbeat number which showcases Derek's knack for a soaring melody in addition to his vocal ability. One to watch in 2012...

A SEASONAL GREETING FROM HEYHIHELLO:

I like HeyHiHello. I like Wonderful Christmas Time by Paul McCartney. Therefore, it makes sense that i enjoy this jolly cover version of Wonderful Christmas Time ably sung and performed by HeyHiHello. It's got this sort of stripped back charm to it - not only does the lead singer give a fun filled performance, but the video showcases the incorporation of the different instruments and how they are involved in the production. It's quite great to watch and even better to listen to. Now go and buy their well worth your pennies album, Nothing At All.

GMD3 BEARING GIFTS THEY TRAVEL AFAR:

Hail the three kings of pop - it's those very charming GMD3 boys who have put together a lovely, flowing, beautifully sung cover version of This Christmas to guide you through the more sentimental moments of Christmas. Their voices knit together on the harmonious moments exquisitely, there's some genuinely quite witty fa'la'las in the middle 8 - in fact the whole package is a giddy little treat. So very eager to see where 2012 takes them. Keep up with them via youtube and twitter :)

JOLLY JAPES WITH JERONIMO:

Fresh faced pop fella Jeronimo has kindly taken time out of his busy schedule to say hello and merry Christmas to all readers at myfizzypop :) What a stand up gent! Jeronimo has also had two very fine singles out this year which you might want to check out, including I Am No Superman & Somebody Who Loves Me, in addition to his excellent contribution to Ballroom Remixed. Tremend!

EGGNOG NERDINESS WITH JOSHUA DESJARDINS:

Spread the nerd (hastag that!) because Joshua Desjardins is in the house! Not many people would cut off a phone call with their moms to record a deck the halls style greeting with me so it is hugely appreciated. If you haven't already, you absolutely have to go and watch Joshua's I'm A Nerd song (Glee bound for sure if they have any sense in 2012) and his holiday entry, Home Alone at Christmas. both filled to the brim with peppy, pop-py charm :)

GETTING SENTIMENTAL WITH BRYAN FINLAY:

Young chap Bryan Finlay's song Sentimental Fool has merried up many a visit to Hollister over the summer as it blared forth in the company of Maroon 5 & Allstar Weekend. He's really got into the "swing" of Christmas with his buble-esque cover of Santa Baby, above for your listening and viewing perusal. make sure you check out the aforementioned Sentimental Fool - it features in my top songs of the year list out later this week :)

LET IT SNOW SNOW SNOW WITH GO GO GO!

They may have found their roots in performing pop-musical for children, but I suspect a wider audience of pop appreciators lies in wait, just waiting for the Go Go Go team to give them something to get their teeth into. I've already written about their quite fine Mistletoe-I'mYours mash up, so you'll now need to get a hint of their potential from their very charming indeed version of Do They Know It's Christmas. Effortlessly delightful :)

FELIZ NAVIDAD WITH A DAPPER DRESSED AURYN:

Not that they are ever that scruffy, but don't my fave Spanish boyband (and one of my fave current boybands) Auryn scrub up well when it comes to Christmas?? I was hoping for a little festive ditty to accompany this, but frankly I'm still loving their debut album so do check out that, in addition to their infernally catchy singles Breathe Into The Light & Last Night On Earth...

HALF A BOY BANNED FOR CHRISTMAS:

Sigh. Those cheeky chaps known as Boy Banned are looking forward to a nice break after a year of tirelessly promoting their music across the globe (well Europe anyway). I have no idea why Ethan is clothed in the above shot, as he spends most of his time on twitter half naked, but it is getting chilly out :P Do check out their gorgeous single Stars Are Saying Yes - it's a jingling Christmas treat.

A JEWISH LAMENT FROM DAVID RAEL (OF ZIGZAGBIRDS):

I love any seasonal holiday this time of year. Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid, Diwali, Rosh Hashana et al. So I was delighted when David of inventive, zany, amazing band ZigZag Birds sent me his Hanukkah song, Your Stocking's filled with Candy but a Pencil Sharpener's Handy. It's a tongue in cheek look at the differences between the holidays, a riotous good tune and a bonza effort indeed from David. PS, I love his shirt, the jazzy arrangements, the xylophone & his exuberant performance. ACES.

CHRISTMAS RECIPE TEST WITH THUNDACUB:

I think I adore everything about Thundacub, including this delightful romp through a Christmas classic - I mean does anyone even eat/know what figgy pudding is anymore? If you haven't checked out his amazing song Money you are a fool to yourself. Plus, he looks proper decent nude, as evidenced in a recent issue of Gay Times. Support World AIDS Day, txt NAKED THUNDACUB to 70007 & catch @thundacub in the BUFF!& donate £3 to Elton John AIDS Foundation. Generous!!

PEEKING AT THE PRESENTS WITH JONAS OAKLAND:

Young Jonas has not only grown an amazing quiff this year (so jealous), but also has reinvigorated his music career and go full throttle for a serious pop-dance audience. His latest song Where Were You Last Night is a throbbing instant classic, and just for you this week you get a little peekabo at the upcoming video. Let's just say there is some serious back muscle going on that almost made me create my own sort of white christmas :O Rudey :)

HE'S SO CONFUSED BY CHRISTMAS - IT'S LUKE LEIGHFIELD:

Yes, it would be so much better if his name rhymed with sleigh and not Glee because then I could make all sorts of festive puns. Not to worry, there's a cheery wave from industrious Luke who has been a right busy little beaver this year. He's got a new album coming out called New Season (you can read about it here, where you'll also view the stunning single Garde Ta Foy), he's done an eminently cool best of 2011 list here and he's tres busy touring the universe :) In addition to all of this, apparently his mom makes a mean Christmas dinner and he has one of the most affecting Christmas songs I know - So Confused By christmas. do check it out!

DOGGY DELIGHTS WITH JUDIE TZUKE:

Gasp! Is Judie's dog DeeDee not the cutest thing you've ever seen (until there's a cute off with Gregkills' puppy pic, going up later today!)?? There should be an entire Christmas movie made out of this one still alone :) Judie has the perfect voice for a melancholy Christmas classic and I hope that will happen one day. For now you could do far far worse than to buy yourself or a loved one Judie's stunning new album One Tree Less (tip: The Other Side is genuinely heartbreaking). It's an elegant timeless collection of tunes that you absolutely NEED in your collection...

A STIFF UPPER LIP THIS CHRISTMAS WITH VIN GOODWIN:

I do enjoy the whimsical little traits that make a British Christmas so very different to the rest of the world, and witty fella Vin Goodwin has put all the little foibles into an entirely more-ish song for your listening pleasure. personally I quite enjoy the visual additions that nattily accompany the lyrics. After viewing this seasonal tour de force, you will no doubt want to go and purchase Vin's excellent single he released earlier this year. It's called Falling Man and it is of the very good indeed variety.

A VERY BLOGGER CHRISTMAS:

It's a cornucopia of contributions from some of my very favourite bloggers in the entire universe. God bless them everyone. And all who sail in them. let's have a run down of who's who...

You can read about the exploits and musical addictions of Jason at his very own blog here...
You can follow Greg on twitter and read his auditory exploits on his tumblr page. we share a love of lectro lips and Christophe Willem :)
Liam has been tres busy this year designing spot on cover art for many acts as well as penning many a pop lyric for others. Keep up with him on twitter :)
If you are already following Inknpete on twitter, you will know that he puts together many a decent music mix for your listening on his soundcloud page. Plus he whips up a mean piece of festive art :) YAY!
Oh I love that silver fox John has now turned into the Phillip Schofield of the blog universe. How marvypants. You can read all his thoughts and notes on pop music at this twitter page and beyond :)
Oh Bill you amazing individual. Not only do we share an uncanny musical palette, but you incorporated my beloved Starbucks into your visual festive greeting that people can view here :) HUZZAH! And do be sure to follow Bill on twitter :)

PUCKER UP UNDER THE MISTLETOE WITH LECTROLIPS:

I loved it when LectroLips went all sexy in Movember. It was like watching a 70s porn movie being shot. The allure continues throughout the year with the talented twosome as evidenced above. You'll absolutely have to visit their soundcloud page to listen to their latest sizzling pop effort entitled Take The House. It's an essential addition for any booze fuelled Christmas/New Year's bash :)

A CHRISTMAS STATE OF MIND WITH SUNRISE BEACH:

It's a carry forward from last year's Christmas card, but there is no shame in revisiting this essential festive themed interpretation of Empire State of Mind by my antipodean faves Sunrise Beach (not Sunset Beach as I keep calling them!) They have also recently released their first official video for the stirring epic known as In The Clouds where they show off their enormous talent, and all look rather dapper while doing it. Well done them :)

Best of 2011 ~ Top Singles Of The Year Part One

2011-12-21T04:33:00.000-08:00

It's quite hard doing these end of year lists isn't it? Songs that you were absolutely obsessed with upon their release may not seem so exciting now. Conversely, songs you are very fond of at this very second may pale into significance when you reflect on them a while later. So what I'm trying to say is it's all a bit subjective really. Anyway, in some sort of semblence of an order, here are the songs that made an impact on me at various points throughout the year :)

HIGHLY COMMENDED (IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER):

Andreas Johnson ~ One Man Army: I love a good romantic power ballad and the "Glorious" Andreas Johnson delivered this swoon worthy number with elegance and panache...
Boy Banned ~ Stars Are Saying Yes: Gorgeous harmonies, dreamy lyrics and a delightful hook, all set over a festive jingle bell shuffle. It's back to basics & a timeless sounding ditty emerges because of this :)
Bryan Finlay ~ Sentimental Fool: Young Bryan gives a corking vocal performance that belies his young years on one of the most infernally catchy ditties I've heard in a long time. Kudos to Hollister for popping it on their instore playlist and giving me the opportunity to discover it :)
Daniel Volpe ~ Red BMX: I do enjoy a nice, lyrically nostalgic pop romp and Daniel has created an enchanting look back at his carefree child hood days. It helps that it has a lovely flowing melody and a chorus to die for...
Darren Hayes ~ Bloodstained Heart: One of three excellent singles released by Mr Hayes this year, this is the one that resonated with me the longest. Lyrically devastating, musically beautiful - this is a track that rewarded over and over again with each listen...

Erasure ~ When I Start To (Break It All Down): I don't think I will ever fall out of love with Erasure and this frankmusic penned little ditty made me remember all the reasons why I like them. Effortlessly melodic, definitely melancholic - it was a triumphant return to the pop world even if it didn't set the charts on fire...
Gravitonas ~ Lucky Star: The ever reliable Andreas and Alexander continued to inspire and delight with their fifth single - a brooding, sweeping number with an amazing chorus, layered instrumental, top notch production and an absolutely mesmerising video. Hurrah.
JLS ~ Take A Chance On Me: They may have their regular forays into ensuring the club is still alive or making people oh oh oh oh oh oh, and i'm not averse to that, but I'm a sucker for a sincere, earnest boy band ballad and this delivered lovely chorus & tight harmonies. That song Do You See What I See is a riot as well isn't it??!
Lady Gaga ~ Born This Way: It was always going to be difficult to top The Fame (Monster) & it took a while to grow on me, but now I'm quite fond of this 'screw you all' anthem of the GG. And as you will see later on, it's a song that works well in a variety of formats which is always a testament to the original composition...
Le Kid ~ Oh My God: Excuse me for being coarse and blunt, but Le Kid are fucking amazing aren't they? Oh My God is a prime example of why they are - perky pop, soaring chorus, exuberant delivery, catchy lyrics and a massive ball of energy & fun pulsates throughout every note of the song. This is surely only the start of their massive pop career...

Martin Rolinski ~ Blame It On A Decent Matter: Ex BWO singer Martin goes solo on this 80s inspired, electro-dance pop number that demonstrated he can more than hack the pop world on his own. Along with his snazzy new hair cut, he represents someone to keep an eye on in 2012. Now hurry up with your next single please Mr Rolinski?!
Olly Murs ~ Dance With Me Tonight: He's really stepped into his own this year has the jolly Olly. Proving a right boost to the Xtra Factor and covering a variety of styles on his album, this jaunty rockabilly meets pop romp charmed me from first listen and I've yet to grow tired of it. Long may he and his crotch huggingly tight trousers reign!
One Direction ~ What Makes You Beautiful: Not only a brilliant single, but a brilliant statement of a first single. Sure it made sure that it appealed to their core audience of tween girls, but it was a jangly catchy tune that bypassed the current boy band trend of getting down with ibiza esque beats in a club and went for a more organic sounding approach. And rather addictive it was too :)
Simon Curtis ~ Flesh: Absolute filth. I love it. Sweaty grindings, pseudo bondage yearnings and a desperate throbbing for human contract - blimey! And that's just the lyrics! Any good song about sex should reflect the act itself and musically this exploded into a orgasmic finale...
The Warblers ~ Teenage Dream: Darren Criss & The Warblers saved an uneven second season of Glee, so I'm missing their harmonies even more this year (although I may be the only person in the world who wants Sebastian Smythe to get together with Blaine). This glowing track was representative of the best the Warblers had to offer and only further highlights what an asset Darren Criss is to the show...

THE TEN-ISH (SONGS THAT SHOULD ALL BE AT NUMBER TEN!):

Elouise ~ Born This Way: The express yourself pillaging, disco inferno is gone and replaced by a much more studied & beautiful piano arrangement, with Elouise's storytelling vocals bringing a much more nuanced performance to the aforementioned Gaga number. It's a completely different song yet no less celebratory...
Eric Saade ~ Made of Pop: I don't think I need to say anymore if I quote "Got my degree at the big P.O.P..." Should've been a single from Saade Vol. 1. Wasn't. Still utterly utterly magnificent...
Same Difference ~ Music/Karma Karma: Two songs, both an exhilarating statement of modern pop music that the returning champs Steps should be paying attention to. Furiously brilliant choruses, vibrant production and as always a tour de force vocal delivery from both Sean & Sarah. God, let there be a 3rd album in 2012... That is all.
William Young ~ Jealousy: Ten years into his career, William has become that rare popstar that continually evolves but with a firm grasp on what elements of his career have determined his success and an eye on a quality output. His latest return single Jealousy was a charmer from start to finish...

Weekend Supplement ~ 17th December 2011: The Overtones Video Breakdown

2011-12-17T01:00:00.000-08:00

As Magnus Carlsson so ably said in his Wrap Myself in Paper song, "it's Christmas in a week and a day"! Hurrah! I only get to say that with any legitimacy once a year :) And as an early Christmas gift, those fine fellas known collectively as The Overtones have foisted two splendiferous videos on the tube known as you for your viewing and visualisation pleasures. The first, as you can see above, is an impromptu performance of Adele's Rumour Has It mashed together with the song that just won't quit, Moves Like Jagger. There are several things I like about this performance - in fact so many that i'm going to need bullet points to list them all!

It's a proper mash up not just a medley (which often confuses Glee and X Factor music people). The two songs weave around each other both in the melodies, harmonies and backing riffs. It's quite, quite tremendous.
They all look so wintry don't they, with the gorgeous backdrop, all adorned in their finest scarfs and warm coats. Except Timmy who is showing off his grrr masculinity by having an open collar. The rebel!
(The Timmy Masculinity - surely a future Overtones aftershave product for men? - is juxtaposed with the campest dance off led by him at the end of the song! I do love a good jig, I do!)
I don't really need to say any more about the outstanding vocals because they speak for themselves. Flawless.
I also love that it's like they spend all day just breaking into performances of songs they like. In fact, I like to imagine that they do :)
Let's just watch that dance off one more time. Lachie, what a filthy laugh you have!!

And if that wasn't enough, there is now a formal official video for my number ten song of the week, Say What I Feel. Time for another one of my labour intensive video breakdowns. Sally forth then...

SAY WHAT I FEEL ~ VIDEO BREAKDOWN:

The video starts off the boys strolling along dressed quite casually. Of course casual dressing for the Overtones still involves blazers, chinos, smart shirts and boat shoes. Can you imagine if you knew them? You would either really have to up your fashion game or just feel like a massive frump all the time. PS I really think Marks & Spencers should have them front their next autumn-winter range a la Take That & The Feeling a few years back. But I digress...
It's gloriously sunny and they seem like they are having a jolly good time. And why not? The location around them is just stunning. Like Darren's bow tie...
Ooo, they are now having a good old pedal on their bicycles. There's something quite brilliant about popstars on bikes in videos. I'm not really sure what it is but answers on a postcard would be appreciated.
(Never mind. I paused to write that sentence at 31s exactly and the freeze frame answered my own question. OH MY!)
None of them have helmets on. This would probably ruin their quiffs, but provide them with much needed protection should they fall off. Silly boys.
Oh, they cycle past some ladeez on a vespa (I would kill for a vespa. Figuratively speaking, not literally obviously) - who seem to come over all "oh the vapours" when the boys pedal past!!
God, that chorus is good isn't it? It occurs to me while they sing the soaring tune that I've possibly never seen anyone outside of Harold Bishop from Neighbours on a bike in a bowtie. Amazing.
I have the most unfortunate pauses in this video. Firstly the 31 SECOND PAUSE! Now a shot (1m11) of a lady's fun bags (oh how coarse) as she carries across a jug of cocktails. I'll take the big one with the lime in it please :)
Ooo apparently I have the same booze tastes as Mark, while Lachie opts for the eternally classic glass of chilled white. What a smooth fella.
They now all seem to be in some marketplace, so hands on your wallets as this is where most pickpockets operate. And you just know they would be furious if they stole a cravat from Mike's back pocket ;D
Faster than Clark Kent in a phonebox, they have changed lickity split into their debonair evening attire for a night on the tiles. And just to make sure you are paying attention, from around 1m55 there are some nice slo-mo close ups of the chaps. Mike with stubble is very pleasing indeed. And yay! His cravat didn't get pickpocketed. There's a great "oh you don't know how bad I can be" look from Lachie and some excellent jacket buttoning from Mark. Just those 10-15seconds on a loop would've done me to be honest :D
They're performing on the roof and a spiffing good show they are putting on too. Some bloke in a purple shirt is really getting down with his bad self :P
They all look out from the rooftop at the sunrise, presumably after an all nighter (who looks that good after an all nighter??!) My fave bit of the final few minutes is when Mike looks at Lachie as if to say, when the fuss is breakfast arriving??!
TRIUMPHANT!!

Top 21 Songs of the Week:

21 ~ One Directions, Gotta Be You
20 ~ Auryn, Last Night on Earth
19 ~ Leona Lewis, Hurt (NE)
18 ~ William Young, Come On
17 ~ Erasure, Be With You
16 ~ Nerina Pallot, Butterfly
15 ~ Indigo Girls, We Get To Feel It All
14 ~ The Feeling, Leave Me Out Of It
13 ~ Same Difference, Music
12 ~ Marit Larsen, Coming Home
11 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War
10 ~ The Overtones, Say What I Feel
09 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
08 ~ Shona White & Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
07 ~ JLS, Take A Chance on Me
06 ~ Olly Murs, Dance with Me Tonight
05 ~ Eric Saade ft Dev, Hotter Than Fire
04 ~ Madonna, Masterpiece
03 ~ Little Mix, Cannonball (NE)
02 ~ Boy Banned, Stars Are Saying Yes
01 ~ Elouise, Dear Santa (3 weeks)

Christmas 2011 ~ A Very Harmonious Christmas

2011-12-15T07:07:00.000-08:00

Just in case there was any doubt, I have checked and am pleased to confirm that, yes, this is still the most wonderful time of the year. Phew. To celebrate the reaffirmation of this fact, I just added peppermint to my venti white chocolate mocha at starbucks, which was excessively delicious in the extreme. To add to this feeling of floating like a snowflake through the merriment of festivemasness, I've still got brillo new seasonal music to share with you. HURRAH I HEAR YOU CRY...

ONLY MEN ALOUD ~ IN FESTIVE MOOD:

There is something largely appealing to me about a group of decent looking fellas all dressed ins suits, looking dapper and having a singalong. It's even more impressive when their voices blend together like hazelnut and hot chocolate to melt into an altogether swooning aural sensation of vocal bliss. That's what you get with super choir Only Men Aloud. And after two frankly quite entertaining non-Christmas albums, it's time for them to turn their pipes onto Christmas classics and imbue some frivolity into these chilly pre-25th days. And what an uplifting, feel good romp of a good time it is. It kicks off with one of my most very favourite seasonal songs - It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year. It's delivered with a blast of perky delight, precision vocals and a lush layered affect that has become their trademark sound. Their vocal bell chimes are particularly sensational. And there's more upbeat magnificence wending your way on tracks like Sleigh Ride receiving a horn infused kick; & Santa Baby perhaps the most group flirtatiousness you'll ever experience outside a party where you drop your keys in a bowl... There's an effortless charm tinged with sadness on the perennial Last Christmas in addition to some beautiful sombre arrangements of more secular tracks like O Holy Night (my second fave traditional carol behind When A Child Is Born) and a jaw dropping, hauntingly stunning In The Bleak Midwinter. It's all wrapped up with a soaring medley of Rule The World-Viva La Vida-Everybody Wants To Rule The World that just sends your spirit flying and has you hitting the repeat button over and over again on a track that can be enjoyed all your round. A tremendous album; thoroughly enjoyable :)

If you like this, try these harmonious treats...

The Bandana Splits ~ A Wonderful Christmas Time: new (to me) girl group trio on the block, the aptly named Bandana Splits have managed to blend some lovely Andrews Sisters wartime harmonies with 50s doo-wop style and a smidgeon of current indie-pop relevance to create an enchanting blend of music that is both invigorating and engaging. While you can find lots of music available on their website (including a downbeat cover of Every Day Is Like Sunday), they have embraced December with a cover of the Paul McCartney yuletide classic that is not only free to download, but has a splendid *embrace-the-merriment* video to go along with it too. I feel a new obsession brewing...
Il Volo ~ Christmas Favourites: The teen G4 of the popera world have whipped out a whole EP of their most beloved Christmas songs. It includes two sterling versions of Silent Night (one in English, the other in traditional german), a playful Jingle Bell Rock-Let It Snow Medley and, my fave, a stirring duet with Pia Toscano on The Christmas Song that glows with orchestral elegance. Quite lovely.

Il Volo - Christmas Favorites by Interscope Records

Do click here for a post about harmonious Christmas tunes I did last year (also featuring Only Men Aloud!!)

Best of 2011 ~ My top ten (ish) albums...

2011-12-14T00:58:00.000-08:00

greetings my fine festive friends. Christmas is nearly upon me (ooer) and the end of the year (not days as I accidentally texted my mom sending her into a mass panic) is nigh! The lovely people at vouchercodes.co.uk asked me to put together a list of my favourite albums of the year. They did ask me to limit it to ten, but you know how waffly I am so I couldn't pin it down to just ten. So here are my top ten-ish albums that delighted me consistently in 2011... Let me know yours!! And don't forget to visit vouchercodes daily for all your money off couponing needs! Plug, plug!

THE TENS...

I couldn't narrow down the number ten album to just one so here are a number of albums that all deserve my number ten slot (and just like the x factor results, in no particular order!)

10-ISH ~ LE KID, OH ALRIGHT
There was nothing "oh alright" about the stunning pop fuelled debut album from these gorgeous Swedish maestros. Winning over pop pundits and critics alike, the album featured winning single after winning single, all with epic choruses, sleek production values and musical hooks that reel you in and never let you go. From their debut single Mercy Mercy to the throbbing post millenial I'd Rather Jack-esque We Are The Drums, it's an all filler, no killer album that makes you want to grab the one you love and shimmy. Hard. From start to finish, you'll want to wave your arms in the air like a ninny - it's so good and satisfying that you'll need a lie down afterwards :) Le Kid are le sex. Especially those foxy fellas...

10-ISH ~ SOUND OF ARROWS, VOYAGE
More Swedish bliss. The Sound of Arrows may have taken their time with their debut album, but you can't rush creativity and the results are a breathtaking array of beautifully crafted electro-pop songs designed to inspire, delight and tantalise your emotions. It covers a broad array of musical styles (Moroder, Abba, Pet Shop Boys) and it's hard just to pick a couple of stand outs for you. However, M.A.G.I.C is one of the most enchanting pop tunes in year and one of the only songs I know that can make a children's choir sound effortlessly necessary & essential, while Longest Ever Dream just pulsates with melancholy and whimsy. An album that forces you to be emotional about it - you may find yourself hugging someone after just for the sake of it :)

10-ISH ~ MATT DUSK, LIVE FROM VEGAS
Matt Dusk is one fine foxy crooning fella. Never looking anything less than perfectly dapper in a suit, he also manages to exude likeability and charm each time he sings his songs. His album Good News was one of my favourite albums of 2009, so I've really been looking forward to his live CD/DVD combo. His band in perfectly in sync with him and there's something about each vocal delivery - even on the downbeat songs - that emphasises how much he loves doing what he is doing (and that makes it so much more wonderful for the listener). Highlights include his duet with Lorna Luft on You're Nobody Til Somebody Loves You & the rousing, exuberant, cheeky Wouldn't Change A Thing - a song so romantic and feelgood that it gives you a sugar rush. Essential music and viewing :)

10-ISH ~ SIMON CURTIS, RA:
Arise Lord Gaga of Pop! Independent artist, Simon Curtis, has put together a dark brooding, wickedly biting collection of electro-pop songs that showcase his canny ability to pen catchy lyrics alongside his confident vocal style. It tackles themes of love, loss, betrayal, hurt – all wrapped up in pulsing beats and addictive choruses. Whether it’s the intense call to arms of Laser Guns Up or the downright dirty & sensuous Flesh that draws you in, you’ll be glad you joined the Robot Army. Check out his soaring pop single Superhero as a fine introduction to his work. One to watch in 2012…

NINE TO TWO...

09 ~ AURYN, ENDLESS ROAD 7058
In a year that saw JLS, The Wanted and One Direction soar to the top of the charts, it seemed you couldn’t move for boy bands. However, 5 piece Spanish boy band Auryn are one you may have missed. I’m not sure whether it’s the Spanish accents and Mediterranean good looks that does it, or whether it’s the mixture of the contemporary yet classic musical sound they have opted for. Perhaps it’s all these things and more. Regardless, their debut album stands out in a crowded schedule of boy pop releases and is packed with potential singles, dreamy ballads and the now obligatory cover version of Adele’s Rolling In The Deep. Start off with Breathe Into The Light (penned by X Factor finalist Ruth Lorenzo) & you won’t be disappointed.

08 ~ THE OVERTONES, GOOD OL' FASHIONED LOVE (PLATINUM EDITION)
The album may have originally been released in late 2010, but it was 2011 that saw The Overtones become national treasures across the UK thanks to a spellbinding performance on Dancing on Ice. The album is jam packed with classics from the 50s and 60s, alongside original numbers that slot seamlessly into the doo-wop style the boys love so much. The platinum edition adds their fine, perky, spirited pop romp of a single Second Last Chance alongside the jazz infused party that is Whoops & dreamily romantic Say What I Feel. Throw in stirring cover versions of Beggin’ and Only Girl In The World and it’s a winning collection of tightly harmonised pop genius from start to finish.

07 ~ WILLIAM YOUNG, ECHOES
In the 10 years since Will took to the stage of Pop Idol to audition, he’s managed to blossom into a fine, credible artist with a sustainable career. His latest collection of tunes infuses his established signature sound and vocals with elements of dance floor eleganza added to the songs. The single Jealousy is an excellent example of this and rewarded Will with his biggest hit for several years. There are teardrops on the disco floor as he embraces the influence of producer Richard X, but of course his ballads are appropriately devastating and heartbreaking both lyrically and in the way he delivers each crushing word. A beautiful, heartfelt, nuanced and sincere collection from Britain’s still premiere Pop Idol…

06 ~ CHRISTOPHE WILLEM, PRISMOPHONIC
If you are looking for an album that is a glittering celebration of pop, dance, life and love then you could not do any better than this rapturous collection of new tunes from French pop star, Christophe Willem. Ably guided by Steve Anderson (who has worked with Kylie Minogue and Westlife), this album explodes with an innate love of pop that shines through in each collaborative track. And what a list of collaborators there are – Kylie, Richard X, Richard Stannard, Karen Poole, Izabel Guzman, Sarah de Courcy… Incredibly, there is still an admirable sense of cohesion about the project and Christophe’s beguiling vocal style holds it all together, urging you to go back for more once the experience is over. An essential piece of pop whether French is your language or not...

05 ~ KYLIE MINOGUE, APHRODITE LES FOLIES (LIVE)
From her humble beginnings on Neighbours, Kylie has exploded as a genuine star whose albums and tours have become events rather than releases. This live recording from her latest tour not only reminds the world of what an essential pop album Aphrodite still is (All The Lovers sounds tremendous both as a studio recording and as a live anthem), but proves that Kylie can sing & has a stage presence that transcends the visual. Her long time collaborator Steve Anderson has given well beloved tracks (including a healthy smattering of her best loved hits) inventive new arrangements, whilst keeping the charm of the original scores. To top it all off there is a stunning cover version of Euryhtmic’s There Must Be An Angel which will blow your socks off. Tremendous!

04 ~ THE FEELING, TOGETHER WE WERE MADE:
You can still rely on Dan Gillespie-Sells & the band to produce a compelling set of songs that are heavy on harmony, tightly produced and have some of the most mesmerising & hypnotic melodies this side of Abba. They may not be as successful as they once were, but that doesn’t mean the quality has dipped. There are singalong anthems (particularly A Hundred Sinners, Set My World On Fire), dabbling with dance (Dance For The Lights, Searched Every Corner) and even a dazzling duet with Sophie Ellis Bextor (Leave Me Out Of It) that is like a modern day take on the Peter Gabriel-Kate Bush classic Don’t Give Up. Available as a single disc, my recommendation would be to plump for the double set if only for the collaboration with none other than Betty Boo on Virtually Art.

03 ~ SAME DIFFERENCE, THE REST IS HISTORY
2007 X Factor finalists have sadly not set the pop charts alight with their perky brand of pop. This is quite the shame and you should leave any preconceptions at the door and dive straight into their second album which is the duo being bigger, harder, faster and catchier than they have ever been before. They’ve graduated from the High School Musical sound and now have a sleeker, dance infused groove the likes of which we haven’t heard since Girls Aloud took a break. Check out the blistering pop of Karma Karma or the funky vibe of Best Mistake – you won’t be disappointed. Steps had better watch their backs…

02 ~ BOOK OF MORMON BROADWAY
From the creators of South Park comes one of the most wickedly inventive musicals to hit Time Square New York in some years. Of course it pokes fun at religion, but the songs presented here tell a story of faith and redemption with real heart and conviction. There are songs that parody other musicals so adeptly that they could easily feature in any episode of The Simpsons, while the rest of the time you are tittering so hard at the lyrics that you have to go back to check what you’ve missed out on. It’s all good natured, and not mean spirited at all, but there are some naughty words in there so if that’s not your thing, then perhaps stick with the Same Difference album :)

THE ONES...

I couldn't pick one album - I spent ages pontificating between a Swedish pop genius and a powerhouse chanteuse. And as you can see below, I had to cheat a little bit with both of them... :)

01 ~ ELOUISE, THE EPS
As I say, bit of a cheat this one – new chanteuse on the block Elouise has yet to release an album, but collect her 3 EPs together (Stardust, Stardust Melodies and Santa’s Little Belter) and you have a sensational collection of tunes that touch the soul and lift the spirits. Mainly cover versions of tracks like You’ll Never Walk Alone, Tainted Love, The Winner Takes It All – Elouise positions herself as the storyteller of these tunes amidst some genuinely insightful new musical arrangements and her powerful, evocative vocal style. Do be sure to check out the cheeky flirtatiousness on Fireman Of My Dreams & if you’re feeling festive then the camp, disco epic Dear Santa will get any Christmas party going. Elouise is the real deal and will surely shine in 2012.

01 ~ ERIC SAADE, SAADE VOL 1 & 2
Young Eric Saade has taken Sweden pop world by storm. With following up his epic debut from 2010 Masquerade, he decided to put together two albums in 2011. The first volume featured some of the finest, most addictive pop I've heard in years including his second place Eurovision smash Popular and the slightly arrogant, swagger cockiness of Made of Pop (sample lyric - got my degree in the big P.O.P!) The second volume has just been released and features more scintialling dance pop grooves lead off by the ridiculously addictive first single Hotter Than Fire featuring new pop tart on the block Dev. To produce two high quality, totally enjoyable pop albums in a year is quite the accomplishment - he just needs to come to England now and show us how it's done, because I hear his live shows are spectacular and completely made of pop!

Christmas 2011 ~ More magic from The Overtones...

2011-12-13T10:07:00.000-08:00

Oh! You scared me :) Hello there and christmas greetings faithful reader. It's less than two weeks to Christmas and panic buying has gripped the nation. My panic buying involves consuming as many Praline Mochas at Starbucks as possible before they remove them from their menu. That and snapping up as many braces and bow ties as possible (see pic here for today's effort!) Which of course put me in the mood for some new festive toons from my beloved The Overtones. And lo, a star appeared in the sky and guided me to iTunes where the 3 seasonal songs they released last year have reappeared along with a whole new recording. It's a Christmas miracle. read on before I get carried away!!

A VERY OVERTONES CHRISTMAS...

Last Christmas (I gave you my heart), I wrote this about the Christmas covers The Overtones boys had added to their particularly fine, and still very fine (see tomorrow's best albums of year list!) debut album Good Ol' Fashioned Love...

"The rather adorable Overtones boys (my fashion gurus for Christmas parties) have recorded not 1, not 2 but - *SCREAM* - 3 new recordings of Christmas classics for your seasonal imbibing! YAY! Their debut album is already a giddy treat of 50s-60s doo-wap harmonising with a modern twist and they weave their tightly knit vocals round the festive selection perfectly. While White Christmas and Winter Wonderland are particularly fine, Sleigh Ride definitely stands out with a resonant intro from Lachie before launching into a finger clicking, string aided edition of one of the most joyous seasonal tunes around. And check out the performance below - there are ties, cravats and bow ties, all too cute dance moves, leaning in with the microphone and a genuine impression that they are having the time of their lives. Absolutely magnificent :)"

I totally stand by those wise, enthusiastic, well written (!) words, although I will add that I didn't give White Christmas and Winter Wonderland their due. The former (view a live performance on Scottish tv here) has a gorgeous, playful doo-wop beginning before the smoothly harmonised, Lachie crooned melody and backing vocals kick in. Actually I hesitate to say backing vocals because each contributing vocal by the boys is as essential to the track as the melody line - and this is a large part of the charm (and talent) of The Overtones. This certainly continues when Timmy takes over melody vocal detail and the song sparkles and glides like a gently falling, very beautiful snowflake. The latter has beautifully slowed down tempo to intro the track before a horn infused, jingling bell instrumental picks up the tempo and the boys do what they are best at - creating an entirely fun and magnificent singalong song. Oh and loving the almost Beach Boys rockabilly middle 8 breakdown! BLISS!

As if these three songs weren't enough, a fourth one has been added to the collection - and it's one of my very favourite Christmas songs, if only because the title sums up how I feel about this holiday period. It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year is a classic that had better be performed well and Mark, Mike, Tim, Darren and Lachie certainly did not let me down. It's a sonically massive big band version with a production value that reminds me of classic hollywood movies; their vocals imbued with a joy and love for their work that shines forth, and that gives the track it's gleeful nature. They help you visualise this picture perfect scene with their delivery of the tune - it's evocative and totally brilliant. A fitting end to a magnificent year. Sigh. What a fanboy I am :)

Christmas 2011 ~ A Very Glee Christmas...

2011-12-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

Now that the Factor known commonly as X is over, it's all about Doctor Who, Downton Abbey and (OF COURSE!!) Ab Fab on Christmas day. Sadly, I won't be in the country as I will have the hardship of being in Vegas on Christmas Day this year, so will have to catch up on iPlayer upon my return. Anyhoo, the excitement surrounding these Christmas specials got me playing the new Glee Christmas album and thinking, ooo I must review it. so here is an overview of what you get, plus some decent festive tv from the ghosts of Christmas Past...

Glee: The Christmas Album, Volume Two...

Certain things you can take as read when it comes to the second Glee Christmas album - and their festive show offering in general. These are ~

Nothing on it will be as amazing to me as the simply joyous and nigh on perfect version of last year's We Need A Little Christmas. They set a very high standard for themselves.
There is a certain audacity in performing Do They Know It's Christmas at a soup kitchen (above) in the festive episode that only Glee could pull off. OK, they don't pull it off, it's somewhat cringey, but I'll wait for the full episode to assess!
If this was the UK, a show of that calibre would have this episode air on Christmas Day where it would be a massive musical event...
Ally McBeal still rules in terms of musically themed festive episodes. I think one year there were 3 seasonal offerings!!

That's not to say that Glee Christmas 2 isn't a jolly entertaining affair. For starters it has some Darren Criss on it, which is always a winning combination - and he remains the main reason I watch Glee. His duet with Lea Michele on the original, Katy Perry-esque Extraordinary Merry Christmas is a delightful romp, while his big band duet with Kris Colfer, Let It Snow, is a worthy follow up to last year's Baby It's Cold Outside. Elsewhere Lea excels on Joni Mitchell's River, while Amber Riley takes the lead on a not-too-dissimilar-to-Mariah-Carey All I Want For Christmas cover. And hurrah from quite amazing moments from onscreen couple Santana and Brittany with a rather funky yet classic sounding Santa Baby and perky Christmas Wrapping respectively. So yes, there are some lovely moments here and no doubt combining volumes one and two could actually lead to a rather spectacular selection of Christmas tunes...

Like this? Try these...

Glee: The Christmas Album, Volume One ~ Aside from the aforementioned giddy delight of We Need A Little Christmas and essential Klaine duet, Baby It's Cold Outside, there is much to dig your teeth into here. The jazzy Jingle Bells stands out, as does the ensemble number The Most Wonderful Day Of The Year which - like We Need A Little Christmas - has a wonderful cinematic, old school hollywood vibe to it which I just adore. Ace.
Ally Mcbeal: A Very Ally Christmas ~ yes it's essentially a Vonda Shepard cd, but that fit in perfectly with how music worked within the confines of the show. The most fun is had with Calista Flockhart and Jane Krakowski vamp it up on Santa Baby & I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus, but all the songs are a lovely listen and beautifully arranged. I do miss the Mcbeal. Must start watching from the start again...

The X Factor ~ Live Shows: Week Ten (FINALE)!!

2011-12-11T02:44:00.001-08:00

Ok, so last night in my life, it was the annual 8th X(Mas) Factor Finale Party. I wore this. How Marcus, etc. And for the first time in the 8 year history, we didn't actually watch the finale! We were too engrossed in the delicious looking gingerbread men (see here) and getting 3 sheets to the wind (see here); all whilst dancing to that "shorty with you" Christmas song by Justin Bieber, a healthy dose of various versions of All I Want For Christmas Is You (but mostly Mariah and Love Actually) & getting a bit "rowdy". So a good time was had by all :) Which lead to a more subdued and manageable (in terms of writing up notes) X Factor viewing with the team this morning. Here is what occurred...

INTRO:

We can't just have a finale anymore. It's a 2 night event at Wembley for crying out god's sake. Dermot now has a whole Austin Powers sized skit forward slash dance routine to cope with (now with added Goldie!) to show that this is bigger, better, louder, harder! Faster pussycat, kill kill! The judgets get some live and let die music, but really the world is just wondering why Tulullah is a) still pushing the Female Boss thing and b) wearing a dress she can't sit down in. She looks like one of those ghastly toilet roll dolls that old people think make their bathroom look classy. The finalists get the Carmin Burina music, possibly to emphasise how scary it is that this show doesn't contain Misha B anymore.

GROUP NO ~ ooo it's Greatest Day. How rousing. JessiePreFix still has far too much hair as she goes into over-exaggerate/accentuate/emote mode. Marcus sounds very good & even preFix sound ok once Shouty McReturningAct, Marcus and the swelling instrumental drown them out! KellyNotClarkson is very excited. You can see her eyes thinking, "I wonder if I could sell out this arena based on my number 56 album, Here I Am?" Bless.
MARCUS ~ That Yeo Valley boy band ad plays again. Some of the fellas are well fit and it reminds me how much Tulullah fucked over The Risk-Keys in order to get Little Mix ahead/giving head. Bah humbugger. Right, onto Marcus - oh we're getting those "returning home" montages. I can't help but feel those school kids are screaming with joy because actually they are missing double physics for this. I do love Marcus though and his family seem absolutely delightful. And this VT is still better than that goddawful and mortifying dinner Shayne Ward had to have with Louis!! He comes on stage (not literally, this isn't Triga) all Catch Me If You Can The Musical style before launching into Hey Ya. Let's face it, I'm amazed they've sat on this song so long as it is perfect for Marcus. It gets even more perfect when some well defined lads in high-viz (ooo get me with the lingo) vests prance onto stage. It even has an unintentionally amusing moment when the plane he is dancing on presumably takes off. Brilliant. I'm a bit emotional. The home support video link is actually in the studio this year. It doesn't make it any less chaotic, but at least good golly, it's Olly :)

preFIX ~ Why the fuck does Tulullah call them her little muffins? It's as much a mystery to me as the appeal of preFIX. I can't help but feel the nation is gripped in a "well The Saturdays were never as good as we hoped & have now imploded; Girls Aloud have gone awol and oh this will just do for now, won't it" strain of frenzied panic thinking, all aided and abetted by the incessant "ooo a group could win/a GIRL group could win" media hype that's prevalent in this country - all of which make preFIX appear much better than they actually are. Their VT, like every other finalist ever, is full of tears and inspirational music. When Tulullah introduces preFIX at a local gig, she shouts "who are you here to see?" and i'm pretty sure the audience shout back "NOT YOU". Kids can be so cruel. preFIX arrive on motorbikes on stage (how Girls Aloud Wake Me Up of them) before shouting some inaudible rap of dubious N-Dubz "quality". They do You Got The Love. JessieHeavyHair is still exaggerating every single move and nuance. Some of the vocals are a bit breathy but overall it is entirely perfunctory. Tulullah impersonates ReturningAct by shouting at them how much she loves them. "Why would anyone vote for Little Mix" asks Caroline Flack Hyphen Styles. Her unfortunate emphasis on 'anyone' means the question lingers in the air like an unwanted fart. Oh, just like Tulullah's perfume then!!
RETURNING ACT ~ I am having visions that Returning Act will shout her way through that lovely new Madonna song, Masterpiece, and rename it Middlesbrough. *SHUDDER* That pink bloke is now making a living out of popping up on national television. RA doesn't arrive on a plane or motorbike, she just walks onto the stage. I would say this doesn't bode well for her chances but she is more popular than Marcus in the polls :S This week, Michael, she is going to be Christina Aguilera and therefore does Ain't No Other Man. Imagine if she had done Dirrty. JUST IMAGINE. Despite the huge venue, for the most part she reins in the shouting and it helps me see why she made it this far. So kudos Returning Act, kudos. Of course that means you will now be voted off first. It will be all my fault. I apologise. Louis calls her raw. Or R.A.W - Returning Act Woman.

JLS v ONE DIRECTION:

This could be as exciting as Alexandra and JLS performing together in the Joe-Stacey-Olly face off of 2009! I'm sad JLS don't do that bastardisation of Do You Hear What I Hear, which I have come to love. Still, their choice of She Makes Me Wanna totally makes sense as everyone knows it and it's a jolly good time. Then One Direction come on and perpetual end person Niall is allowed to stand in the middle, although as punishment they have dressed him in a blouse that your Aunt Mildred would fashion a nice brooch onto. (Louis T looks proper ace though). They do What Makes You Beautiful and THEN IT ALL GETS GENUINELY THRILLING - it's a She Makes Me Wanna Beautiful mash up. And a proper mash up. AMAZING. Release this now. NOW!!!

MARCUS-GARY ~ I hate these "x factor helped me make something of my life" speeches. It shits all over people who work hard at jobs that they love & who don't necessarily want the spotlight! Ooo rant over. *Sings Wind Beneath My Wings* They do a lovely Always A Woman, perhaps the best since that advert or Garth Brooks. Gary gives lovely piano as always. It's quite heavenly. Based on their recent album debuts of the mentors and translating those into votes, Marcus is a shoo-in to win. (Take That = 12 for Progress Live; NDubz Greatest Hits = 38; and the aforementioned 56 for KellyNotClarkson, though i believe it will rise 'somewhat' this week). Have i doomed Returning Act again with this new scientific formula??
preFIX-TULULLAH ~ Thank god they have called it a medley not a mashup. Jessie is still over-acting and gazing at Tulullah lovingly (but still can't beat the Alexandra-Beyonce Snot Off of 2008). Jessie is actually truly terrifying when she tries to be all street and beatboxes. She's about as street as Miranda's mom. Such fun. It really is only ok overall. "How do you feel about a fifth member" asks Dermot, and the girls look petrified knowing that is an absolute reality on this show. Some silly girl has a tattoo of Little Mix on her arm. Not shown? Rhythmix inked out on the other arm...
RETURNINGACT-KELLYNOTCLARKSON ~ RA can't believe she got KNC as her mentor (so what a kick in the knickers when she booted her off week one). KNC knew that RA was something special (which is why she booted her off in week one). Their River Deep Mountain High is not bad thanks to more unintentionally hilarious moments (the adlibs, Kelly dancing, Kelly doing a 'cry' movement to match the lyrics, etc.

LEONA ~ What happened to Leona and Alexandra? Surely both should be enormous still across the world? Instead they are in the same pop void that destroyed poor Shayne Ward. God knows what she is singing but i assume it is from her new EP of rushreleased covers as a gift to the fans in time for Christmas. Someone needs to explain gift to Leona. You don't buy your own gift!! It's no Run or Stop Crying Your Heart Out is it? It's far too quiet at the start and doesn't really go anywhere. The judges do a standing ovulation which shows they really will stand up for anything...
THE BOOB ~ though i do prefer the Mans Zelmerlow and Matt Dusk swing into xmas albums, the Boob's festive offering is proper good all by itself. A reet bonny treat. Plus THANK GOD SOMEONE IS ACKNOWLEDGING IT IS CHRISTMAS. That is all. *watches All I Want For Christmas Is You by Same Difference*
RESULTS ~ based on my scientific formula of album sales by mentors, in addition to temporarily liking her, i doomed Returning Act and she will be Returning no more! See you for part two later on then...

NIGHT TWO:

Are you weeping that it's all over and you won't get to read my blog about it every week?? :D I'm always at a bit of a loss as to what to write about after this cos as usual I've spunked all my energy on xmas and x factor!! What will I do now?? Anyway, enough about me. The judges arrive and Tulullah literally has to be hoisted down the steps as she has decided to come as wrinkly thrown away purple quality street wrapper. Bring back Dannii, Will Young for the Voice, etc...

GROUP NO ~ Marcus surely shows the girls how to strut, even though of course 4 vocalists in a group are bound to drown him out. Oh! All the other finalists minus COCKOZZA are here. VIVA THE RISK, MISHA, 2 SHOES & JONNY!! Jesus Christ, Goldie is here? For someone who didn't want to be on the show she sure is lingering like Tulullah's perfume this weekend. Fuck off Goldie. And Kitty Litter.
MARCUS ~ Song of the series. I did love Higher & Higher. It was absolutely exuberant. I hope it's as tremend tonight. Phew. It is. Though i hope they don't get him recording it for an album. Originals only please. I want UK Bruno Mars, not the new Ray Quinn. He certainly is more natural and engaging on stage than preFIX...
preFIX ~ oh my god, yes a girl group has made the final and could win. Can we stop harping on about this now. Tulullah introduces them with the same words as she used last night. Verbatim. This does not bode well for the originality of the Little Mix career. It's Don't Let Go. I still think ET was their performance of the series and the one that made me almost like them. Jessie is by far the weakest member of the group. He "whoa oh uh ah" thing was appalling. And they can't even walk down the stairs in precision. It's the little things that count. Still even for a preFIX grinch like me, it's hard to begrudge them their moment to shine...
XMAS MARCUS ~ A Christmas Cracker?! SQUEAL! I'm in heaven. I was bemoaning on twitter the lack of festiveness. So glad they listened :D It's Last Christmas and despite it's weirdly edited intro and some dodgy camera work it's all quite pleasant. Would it really really kill Take That to do a Christmas song by the way? PS Kelly is SO drunk tonight...
preFIX XMAS ~ They do Silent Night. I'm secretly hoping for a rap breakdown. Louis writes something down and underlines it. That is how thrilling the performance is. It is one of their better vocals though (when the blonde one isn't overegging the pudding, which is about 90% of the time).

WESTLIFE ~

They are singing to a montage of highlights that it is hard to pay attention to. I will probably quite miss Westlife to be honest. They are not everyone's cup of tea, but I've enjoyed an awful lot of their records and you can't deny their success. I bet Gary is secretly furious they are not singing his Lighthouse song which rocketed them to no. 32. I'm a bit sad they aren't singing You Raise Me Up though...

MARCUS ~ CANNONBALL: The way Gary says "X Factor Story" makes it sound like sex factor story. I wouldn't mind seeing Marcus and Eton Roader David Heath having a smooch if I'm honest :P Anyway, Cannonball for whoever the winner is? I'm not against it (as I haven't heard it as i type this), I just think it's a massive step backwards. Where is the individually picked song for the winner (regardless of whether a cover version or not). Marcus does make this sound utterly delightful though (there had better be a key change). (there is. He 'smashes' it). (AMAZING). (Whether he wins or not, this is now my winning single)
LLITTLE MIX ~ CANNONBALL: I will grant them their name as it's the finale. They sing it well. Not as well as Marcus though.

COLDPLAY ~

I'll be sad if they don't do Viva La Vida or Christmas Lights. Theblogthatmarkwrote will be sad if they don't do Paradise. I'm made happy by the fact that everyone in the audience has glowing wristbands on and look amazingly colourful. They eventually get round to Paradise as the second song, which does sound like an XFactor Winner's song. That Chris Martin - what a sweaty betty!!

THIS IS IT... Oh. Well that's that then. The winning reprise of Little Mix's song is an absolute shambles. When the finalists descend on the stage, Little Mix stop singing, and have a jolly good chat. So unprofessional. How weird that their vocals carry on when they aren't singing. Hmmm. Pre-ordering the Marcus and Misha albums now then...

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR (when Little Mix are as big as Joe McElderry and Marcus is as big as Olly Murs)!!!!!!!!!

Weekend Supplement ~ 9th December 2011: Approval granted...

2011-12-09T10:28:00.001-08:00

Well hello! Glad tidings to you and your kin. Which i used to think was Ken, but that only works if you are Barbie really doesn't it?? Anyway. I am full of festive merriment today as I am in full planning of the xmas-factor party on Saturday night. My eggs are nogged, my tree trimmed, my secret santa gifts wrapped and I'm now tra la la-ing with gaiety (is there any other way to tra la la??!) as i put up the fairy lights to sparkle the place up a bit. As I've been ramming Christmas down your throats a bit (oo-er), I thought I'd give you the day off, remind you of how ace The Approval are and go & have a gander at the winter coats on the Abercrombie website... have a super weekend!!

THE APPROVAL ~ REVISITED:

Regular readers of this blog (all 12 of you, thanks Mom and Aunty Henry) will know that once I become a little bit smitten with musical talent, i tend to go on about it all the live long day. Simon Curtis, Elouise, The Overtones, et al... And of course, one of my most recent delights is boy duo The Approval. Fresh from their still charming and still amazing debut EP (read about it here; download it here), they've put together a video to showcase their quite splendid tune Up To No Good (don't let Santa know they are up to no good. He checks that naughty/nice list twice!!) They've teamed up with Quintessential Clothing to create the clip, which showcases their acoustic skills as well as the studio version playing over a montage of well dressed shots. The acoustic section at the beginning is a real treat - Simon does an excellent job with his rapid fire vocals and the harmonised chorus over the plucking guitar works incredibly well. Then that rousing, spirited studio version kicks in and you get swept along with that addictive chorus and alluring hand clap rhythms. Visually, the boys frolick around with lots of attractive, well dressed people while flirting with the camera so it's not exactly hard work is it??! :D Anyway, it's still an amazing tune from an act that a) are my top tip for 2012, b) let their personalities shine in the video and c) look criminally good in tuxes... :)

(PS - if you fancy more from the charm offensive that is The Approval, then you'll need to check out their excellent acoustic version of Hide & Seek.)

top 21 songs of the week:

Madonna is the top new entry of my most played songs of the week. The song is understated elegance and totally gorgeous. Take A Bow, Madonna because this has already become one of my favourite ballads. It reminds me of when This Used To Be My Playground came out, all sombre stately Madonna before she let rip with the saucy, enticing and scintillating Erotica album. I'm all for a little bit of history repeating...

21 ~ Gravitonas, Lucky Star
20 ~ Auryn, Last Night On Earth
19 ~ Kevin Borg, Unstoppable
18 ~ One Direction, Gotta Be You
17 ~ The Feeling, Leave Me Out Of It
16 ~ Nerina Pallot, Butterfly
15 ~ Indigo Girls, We Get To Feel It All
14 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War
13 ~ The Overtones, Whoops
12 ~ Marit Larsen, Coming Home
11 ~ Same Difference, Music
10 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
09 ~ Madonna, Masterpiece (NE)
08 ~ William Young, Come On
07 ~ Erasure, Be With You
06 ~ Olly Murs, Dance With Me Tonight
05 ~ JLS, Take A Chance On Me
04 ~ Shona White & Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
03 ~ Eric Saade ft Dev, Hotter Than Fire
02 ~ Boy Banned, Stars Are Saying Yes
01 ~ Elouise, Dear Santa (2 weeks)

Christmas 2011: A very scandi-pop Christmas!

2011-12-08T23:30:00.000-08:00

I think I'd quite like to spend Christmas curled up in Hotel Rival in Sweden. I imagine it's jolly lovely indeed and a rollicking festive time would be had by all. There have been some very delightful Christmas songs come out of Sweden and it's neighbouring countries in recent years. here are a few of their efforts this year...

Mans Zelmerlow ~ Kara Vinter: I have already extolled the virtue of mans at Christmas in this post here. But frankly, as he has a brand new festive song out (translation, Dear Winter), what better excuse to imagine oneself cuddled up to Mans by a roaring fire as he croons sweet nothings into your ear?! *Takes a moment* His new song (from his new Christmassy album of the same name) starts with a delicate piano that floats through your speakers like falling snow, enhanced by Mans gorgeous vocals which shine like the brightest star on a crisp frosty night. From this enchanting intro, it swells into a layered, warming melody with a stark percussion juxtaposed with a sweeping orchestral instrumental that - when all put together - creates a beautiful tune that sounds heartwarming whether you can understand the lyrics or not. Marv.
(MANS UPDATE - 15TH DEC 2011: Hurrah. Mans has only gone and performed Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas (top) and Kara Vinter (bottom) on Swedish television. Most marvelous he is looking, but more importantly, he sounds bloody brilliant too. Gorgeous arrangements, gorgeous vocals, gorgeous songs, gorgeous Mans)...
Marie Serneholt ~ Himlen i min famn: A few months ahead of her melodifestivalen 2012 entry (Salt and Pepper), Marie is warming up her vocals with a gorgeous, evocative number. It's very stately and elegant, sounding like something from Anastacia or a musical of that ilk. It's perfect for sitting on a window seat, in an oversized jumper, watching the snow fall - I love songs that conjour up these vivid images. A string laden middle 8 creates more images of a swirling formal dance across a glittering ballroom floor before Marie's crystalline vocal comes back for one more run through of that hypnotic chorus. Truly heavenly and angelic at any time of year...

Shackles ~ A Christmas Kiss With you: Take the shackles off my feet so I can dance! So sang mary mary once, and those lyrics are very apt for the very charming indeed song by Swedish duo, Shackles. It dashes along like a sleigh ride, with a perky instrumental, playful vocals and an exuberant, joyful delivery from the girls. Those flirtatious yet ultimately romantic lyrics make you want to grab the one you love and shimmy. Add to this the video above - with roaring fire, tree, glass of champers, festive knits, etc - and they have the most enticing Christmas musical gift I've heard in a while :) PLUS! One of them has quite a foxy looking fella to smooch under the mistletoe and that's ALWAYS a plus :)
Páll Óskar og Sigga Beinteins ~ Jólin koma með þér: Hurrah! I love a festive duet :) Remember when Mans got all smoochy with Agnes on a slowed down All I Want For Christmas? Or even Kylie & Jason's not festive but sort of especially for you?! Anyway, two legends of Icelandic eurovision have teamed up for a dreamy seasonal ballad and a sterling job they have done with it too! It's laden with bells chiming and their vocals playing off each other & harmonising like two love birds cooing in the glistening morning snow. As if the pretty melody wasn't enough, there's a killer key change to make your spine shiver in the last minute or so :) A genuinely engaging and delightful tune. Hurrah again!

Video breakdown: Eric Saade ~ Hotter Than Fire

2011-12-07T04:50:00.000-08:00

Oh Christmas has come early this year! Not only has young Eric produced a phenomenal pop album right at the end of the calendar year (read review here), but he's whipped out a rather sensational video to go with his blistering track, Hotter Than Fire. Here is what happens, frame by frame...

Eric is in a car again. I would have to go back and have a looksie to see if it is the same car he was in when he was parading around telling everyone to put their hearts in the air. He has the air of "drives like a loon on loon tablets" about him :D
The leather gloves are still omni-present though, leather glove fans :) Hurrah!
He pulls up outside some manky old dilapidated building with a broken window and an aging "Featuring Dev" sign on it. This is probably because the single features Dev.
Eric goes in to the darkened room. This is not advisable. It looks like a crime scene from Castle or some such show. It's the type of place you end up with a bag over your head and a ball in your mouth! How salubrious ;)
Luckily, eric just tosses his sunglasses over his shoulder and does some funky nifty dance moves. It's all very Michael Jackson esque and pleasing.
The rooms get better as he dances through them. One of them has some television screens in them. Dev pops up on these screens and does her chorusey bits. She has quite nice hair.
The camera pans between a new room which has some wine in and a dentist chair, and the Dev TV room. There is no cut. I've rewound a bit. Ooo this is all in one take. No mistakes then please Eric!!
Eric's had a bit of a sitdown in the dentist chair while the Dev bit has been going on. He needs a bit of a rest probably - i mean, he's done 2 albums, melodifestivalen and a tour this year. He's a man(boy) not a machine!!
Still, ever the professional, he's back on his feet as soon as the camera returns. He enters a room full of lamps where he does some more complex dancing. Let's face it, it's a higher level of dance routine than your average Steps video...
Blimey, how many rooms has this building got? Eric now has a boogie in a room with a film projector (how quaint). There is good hat grab screen grab at 2m09s as he shimmies right in front of the projector which means his shadow will have ruined the view for anyone watching.
It must be getting chilly because before leaving Film Room, Eric zips his jacket back up (boo, take it off, etc) but throws his trilby away. He has a scant disregard for his accessories. I feel like running in to the building and bagging myself some sunnies and a hat :)
At 2m30s, lets just marvel at the complexity of what Eric does, in one take - jumping on the table, fancy footwork and then some gravity defying moves. It's mightily impressive, utterly flawless, totally precise. Tremendulent.
At around the 3m point, there are more death defying gravity stunts from Eric and as he looms into the screen, I can't help but think this would make a magnificent 3D video...
Eric struts his way back through all the rooms with a manly confidence that is quite alluring...
It all comes to an end with a close up of Eric (RAR), and him doing one final matrix style leap before putting his glove to the camera and fade to black.
Literally breathtaking :)

Christmas 2011: A Cornucopia of new festive singles....

2011-12-06T07:10:00.000-08:00

Oh my days and a half! The festive season is in full swing. I was meant to be at a festive Puppini Sisters concert tonight, but they have postponed it for a week so they can take part in a Micheal Buble radio special. Bah and humbug I say. To get me out of the funk of not having some 40s style carols crooned to me tonight, I am presenting you all with a marvelous round up of not one, not two, but eight essential new festive tunes that you may have missed this year! So glad tidings to you as you plough on with festive merriment my chums :)

Christmas singles round up 2011:

Macaulay Culkin (Home Alone at Christmas) by Joshua Desjardins

Joshua Desjardins ~ Macauley Culkin: The follow up to the bonkers genius of I'm A Nerd is an equally witty, zesty and clever slice of pop engineered perfectly for the Christmas market. It's a giddy, rollicking rapid pace reindeer ride of a song, with a perky disco beat, engaging vocals by the brilliantly surnamed Mr Desjardins. What gives this song it's heart and charm are the sparkily compiled lyrics that reference almost every holiday cliche you can think of and revolve around the kicky hook of "now i'm home alone and sulking/who am I, Macaulay Culkin?". Take a listen above for a spiffing good time. PS, loving the ho ho oh introduction. PS part two, let this song by a warning to all naughty girls and boys. Santa does check that list twice...
Matt Wertz ~ Snow Globe: Recommended by none other than boy banneder & x factor guest blogger extraordinaire, Pob, I quickly fell for the musical charms of onesie & ugg boot rocking Matt Wertz. This song has such a sunny disposition to it, with some genuinely whimsical lyrical moments about living in a snow globe where it's festive every day, and everything is wonderful and candy cane magical. AND! Not only is the chorus a soaring good singalong, but is layered with some lovely piano, riffy guitar and even a spunky ukelele vibe. Magic :) (Do check out the charming video below too!!

Victoria Justice ~ It's Not Christmas Without You: A small part of me wishes that this was part of Spectacular 2: A Very Christmas Musical, and that Simon Curtis had gotten his cheesy pop on to duet on this whirling dervish of a seasonal nugget.It's a full on Christmas pop song with a powerhouse vocal from young Victoria, lots of chimes & jingle-bellsings, and some horny horns to give it a bit of pep & vigour. guaranteed to have you singing around the Christmas tree within minutes of hearing. More sugary than a Praline Mocha, but just as delicious :)
Jordin Sparks ~ Angels Are Singing: This song has made me super eager for a full Christmas album from the super lungs of Ms Sparks next year please. It's based around the classic 12 Days of Christmas and never has it sounded so heartfelt and soulful, mixed with a handclap beat and a joyous 'angels are singing' refrain. It really brings the magic of the holiday season through your speakers and puts a massive smile on your face. SMITTEN.
Kelly Clarkson ~ I'll Be Home For Christmas: Another idol i'd be willing to splash out money for a festive album is Kelly Clarkson. And trust Kelly to take this holiday standard and still manage to make it sound completely mesmerising & enchanting from the trumpet infused opening to her wistful vocal that just shines like the brightest star. It's completely heartbreaking and devastating, but utterly beautiful...
Gavin Mikhail ~ Evergreen: I love how Gavin has not only produced an entirely original Christmas tune that is as gorgeous and powerful as his stunning song, "Brave", but also has a truly glorious animated video to accompany it (below). It's a song of intricate piano, luscious chords and a heartfelt vocal from young Gavin himself. There's a gorgeous moment where it all gets very quiet, before it powers up the volume and intensity for one final run through of the resplendent chorus. Absolutely marvelous...

Sunturns - Hallelujah (Christmas Is Here!) by spoontrain

The Sunturns ~ Hallelujah (Christmas Is Here): I don't know much about them, but I bloody love The Sunturns. They are a searing beacon of musical hope in an oft too bleak landscape. And, god bless em, they have put out a whole album of seasonal tunes! HURRAH! My favourite is the one presented here for you - it's got a riveting, uptempo melody to it, some tips of the hat to Do They Know It's Christmas, a lovely refrain, a slightly cynical edge to the lyrics, yet it's all so inviting and convivial that you can't help but get swept up completely with. There are also some brilliant island guitars, a nice blend of the main vocalists in the verses and some added choral style harmonies thrown in for good measure. Give it a go. Bloody brilliant and totally worth 3 minutes of your time :)
Mika ~ Vive Le Vent: I have started to hope that perhaps all of Mika's future songs might be in French because he is so darned good at it. His festive offering for a compilation album is the jazzy and spritely Vive Le Vent - an offering so full of joy and exuberance that you may need no other song this holiday December. It's a mix of the Jingle Bells music merged with some Joyeux Noel, a heavenly angelic choir, a spry and playful vocal from Mika - it all adds to one of the most spectacular songs. You can almost imagine it soundtracking a montaged busy shopping trip through the seasonal throngs before collapsing in a heap of presents and bags at the end. Essential x a million :)

The Sunturns - Christmas is Here (Hallelujah)
Kim Wilde - To France (Christmas Edit)
Mika - Vive Le Vent

Christmas 2011: The Duets Edition :)

2011-12-05T02:46:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love a good duet at Christmas. I've already written about Justin Bieber teaming up with Mariah Carey (and there's now the most awful/awfully amazing video to go with it); there are plenty more people waiting in the wings to get their duets on. Here are some of the best so far of 2011...

(CHRISTMAS) TEA FOR TWO:

She & Him ~ A Very She & Him Christmas: Ooo, I've been wanting a nice set of Christmas tunes from Zoe and M., ever since the former was tra la la-ing away in Elf (The Movie - read my review of the musical soundtrack here. it's delightful). And what an elegant collection they have put together. Against the endless collections of festive staples, this comes across as deliciously quirky and effortlessly engaging. All the tracks are just lovely, but some of the stand outs include The Christmas Waltz (a gentle production really enhances the song and provides a wonderful showcase for Zoe's crystalline vocals); Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas/I'll Be Home For Christmas (they slow the tempo down from traditional versions of these songs and it works oh so well - makes it oh so romantic and a little bit alluring. Essential); Rocking Around The Christmas Tree (that kicky beat and some genuinely warming guitar frames Zoe's vocal so it is almost as if she is right there in your living room. Playfully perfect); & Christmas Wish (M gets more of a chance to sparkle on this track and as such, it makes a heavenly contrast for the rest of the album). A delectable selection of tunes :)
Emmy The Great & Tim Wheeler ~ This Is Christmas: I can't say it was the Christmas album I was expecting this year, but it's one I keep returning to.Emmy continues to showcase herself as a brilliant singer-songwriter and her voice blends exceptionally well with Tim Wheeler (best known from Ash). Because they sometimes use samples from classic Christmas tunes (and always with a devilishly insightful irony), most the tracks on here seem instantly familiar, with a somewhat anti-festive lyrical tinge. That doesn't mean the music isn't a treat, nor that it can't provide a nice diversion and juxtaposition to more traditional fare out there this year. There is one cover version (Marshmallow World) but the rest are all originals that seem destined to become classics in years to come. Highlights include the zippy, peppy Christmas Day (I Wish I Was Surfing) which demonstrates some amazing power chords and an instantaneous chorus; Home For The Holidays (a wistful tune reminiscing on regrets of the ghost of relationships past); and the genuinely witty (Don't Call Me) Mrs Christmas. There's a definite biting wit that runs throughout this album and it works well as an alternative take on the Christmas period. Zombie Christmas forever!!

Sherrie Austin & Shane Stevens ~ Naughty or Nice: Hurrah! It's a duet from my fave new musical obsession, Shane Stevens and his gal pal Sherrie Austin. Well, to be fair, it's a Sherrie song with Shane along for the ride but that works as well :) It's a country twanged, rollicking affair that has a real playful, frisky vibe to it as Shane & Sherrie sing about whether or not they've been good enough for some Santa approved loving this year. Their voices literally bounce off and then intertwine with each other in a most pleasing fashion, and the chorus is reminiscent of some of the best of Shania Twain. totally radio friendly, totally sing a long after even just one listen. add to this a really charming, tongue in cheek video where Sherrie gets to lounge around a pool looking stunning with some 3/4 naked hunky santas and Shane gets to frolick around his Christmas Tree, also looking stunning (in an ace tux-esque jacket too). Plus there's some festive party dance moves going on in the middle 8. Shake what your mama gave you I say :)
Caro Emerald & Brook Benton ~ You're All I Want For Christmas: It's been quite the year for Caro with her album taking off all across Europe, her jazz tinged tunes and sultry vocals seducing many a music lover into parting with their cash for her catch collection of songs. She has teamed up with velvet toned Brook Benton for this dreamy, romantic, shuffling ditty with timeless instrumentation and oh so giddy in love lyrics. It's hard to resist the infinite seasonal charms of this tune and makes a great addition to her album at this time of year. Seek out at all costs :)

Kara DioGuardi & Jason Reeves ~ New York in Winter: This is actually a track from last year that I missed but one that just sparkles so effortlessly and brings such a warming glow each time I listen to it, that I cannot go without bringing your attention to it. It's essentially a Kara dominated vocal, though Jason provides some truly swooning & precise harmonies that enhance the tune tremendously. It details the magic of the festive season in New York, giving a vivid imagery and a splendid romantic vibe. In love with the city, in love with love, in love with your special someone, this song is illuminating & an opportunity for 2 fine vocalists to bring a little of their own magic to the season. Stunning.

Album Assessment: Eric Saade & Adam Tyler...

2011-12-04T03:59:00.000-08:00

While whittling down my favourite albums and singles of the year, two new releases popped up on my mp3 player & I knew I just had to take a break from all the festive Christmas music I've been posting about and let you know why they are two supremely excellent collections that you absolutely must own. So grab yourself a glass of warm milk (ew), a giant chunky cookie and settle down for a jolly good read...

Eric Saade ~ Saade, Volume Two:

It's no secret that I'm a bit obsessed with Mr Saade. I find him one of the most exciting new pop prospects to emerge for some time. Add to that, the guy is a machine in terms of churning out quality pop, excellent stage performances and always looking immaculate. So it's onto his 3rd full length collection of tunes in just 18 months. Frankly, I'm not really done with Saade, Volume One just yet. I would have quite liked Made of Pop as a late summer single, followed by the bonkers but brilliant Killed By A Cop in October, & finally Stupid With You as a jingle bellsed remix for the Christmas market. But not being one to look a gift horse in the mouth, bring on Volume 2 I say as it's jam packed with excellent pop and - combined with volume one - makes for one of the finest albums of 2011.

It all kicks off with Sky Falls Down (featuring Hearts In The Air collaborator J-Son) - it actually feels more like a J-Son song rather than an Eric number. It's a flowing, trance-dance, ibiza-esque number with a soaring chorus where Eric gets chance to shine. There are great use of synthesizer sounds throughout the track and the beat really is quite compulsive, so overall it's a more than decent way to kick off the album. It steps up a gear with the next track, Rocket Science, a collaboration with Salem Al Fakir. It initially blends quite well from the opening number, but then transforms into a retro sounding pop song & is an excellent merging of the two different styles of two different creative performers. Plus I'm a sucker for whoa whoa whoa ad-libs in a chorus. Of course, next track (Hotter Than Fire) stands out - partly from familiarity at this point and partly because it is one of the most insistent, amazing pop songs of the year. It still sounds great, has a ferocious beat and some tremendous vocals from Eric. Love is Calling could quite easily be the follow up single to Hotter Than Fire. It's something that wouldn't sound out of place if recorded by Kylie Minogue and certainly would light up many a gay hotspot dance floor this new year's eve. It's an out and out dance anthem with a 3 part chorus and a nifty refrain in "heartbeat back, bring my heartbeat back" that you'll find yourself singing at the most inadvertent of times.

Crashed On The Dancefloor is another solid sing a long track, but is followed by two stunning tracks that must be added to the "potential single" pile. Explosive Love is one of those tracks that mirrors the title of the song - there's a huge pulsating dance groove simmering impertinently in the background while Eric delivers a seductive vocal during the verses; this all then culminates in a convulsive, addictive chorus that just refuses to quite. utter magnificence. Backseat for me is sheer perfection. Each Eric album has a massive standout song - this is the It's Gonna Rain/Made of Pop of Saade Vol. 2. Eric goes a bit dubstep, says "swagger", has bass heavy verses before this hyper produced, manic, wall of sound layered chorus kicks in. Add to this the additional hook of "riding in my backseat - back back backseat" and the fact that it may be the most suggestive lyric since Rachel Stevens' 'I Said Never Again' and it's pure thriller from start to finish.

The album draws to a close with 3 final songs. Feel Alive is a modern, relevant dance number where Eric's voice really stands out above the production, beats and synths. It's also quite uplifting and feel good which is always a bonus. This is followed by the utterly bonkers but brilliant Fingerprints. It's quite unassuming to begin with but once that insanely alluring chorus kicks in with the novelty of "go-oh-oh=one" sweeping vocal, you'll be totally battered by beats into submission. So you'll need the lovely ballad of Without You I'm Nothing. I'm a sucker for a big romantic number and this rounds off the album in a blissful style.

Overall, a lovely companion album to Volume One with some massive pop moments going on. Eric continues to delight and impress.
Potential singles: Hotter Than Fire; Love Is Calling; Backseat; Explosive Love; Fingerprints

Adam Tyler ~ Shattered Ice:

I've somehow managed to completely miss the fact that Adam has had his debut album out now for a good 3-4 months. For shame on me. I have concocted an elaborate punishment for myself, which no doubt the sadistic side of me will quite enjoy should Adam ever chose to administer it :D But I digress... what i have missed for the past quarter of a year is a solid pop album with confident melodies, snappy & relevant production, memorable choruses and an endearing vocal style from young Adam himself. It all kicks off with Like A Drug, which not only acts as a strong opening number, but additionally sets out Adam's stall as a performer as it were. It's a stark, throbbing, electro-club killer that just wills you to pulsate along to it's mesmerising rhythms and beats. This segues seamlessly into Pull The Trigger, which marries the ambient rave grooves favoured by JLS and The Wanted on their hit singles this year (You Make Me Wanna; Glad You Came respectively) & adds a sonic, explosive chorus into the mix. It's clear on both these songs that Adam loves the pop music he sings and that he listens to - a theme that continues on Music Freak. It's a literal love letter to the world of music and all that it stands for; a tune that any pop afficianado will identify with & relate to :)

Two standout songs on the album are presented in full version and a more stripped back acoustic sound. First up with this is the gorgeous gothic ballad I Won't Let You Go. It's all plaintive vocal, lush piano melody and swirling strings before the tempo starts to increase & it becomes a full on dance ballad the likes of which haven't been seen since Girls Aloud's Untouchable. The more delicate piano only version is beautiful as a stark contrast to how a song can work in two very different styles - it's haunting and hypnotic & a little bit devastating. Similarly Forgive Me (which tells a brutally honest tale of all his own flaws and mistakes) works as both a funky Erasure-esque 80s number, with seductive synths and a dirty beat, but also excels as a guitar driven confessional that certainly wouldn't sound out of place on any CW show. Or performed by someone like Dashboard Confessional - it's that versatile.

Elsewhere, Emergency desperately needs to be a single. Cleverly built around a beat that instantly reminds of a life support machine crossed with the urgent whir of an ambulance siren, coupled with dramatic chords and a delicious, yearning chorus. There's also a stately, elegant orchestral version of the tune that brings the melody to the forefront and gives it an entirely different soundscape to work to. Finally, don't leave the album without paying attention to one of it's most "pure pop" moments - the title track, Shattered Ice. There's elements of Usher, David Guetta, Lady Gaga, but plenty of Adam to make the soaring layered chorus feel like it's totally his own. And, like the rest of the album, of course it is. An accomplished set of work by someone worth keeping an eye on...

The X Factor ~ Live Shows: Week 9 (Motown/Songs To Get You To The Final)

2011-12-03T00:30:00.000-08:00

Prior to the semi final (I love a good semi I do), in light of the horrifying news that Damien Rice's Cannonball is being fingered as the winner's single (& produced by Dappy? SHUDDER), I thought I would look at some alternatives that won't be the winner's single but show a darn sight more thought and consideration than has clearly been given to the process so far. That sentence was far far too long wasn't it?! Anyway, here are some thoughts that you may or may not agree with...

MISHA B ~ although according to paddy power, she is the least likely of the 4 to be on the stage next week (bah, etc), she should still have a debut single that is completely sassy, catchy and not at all generic. So she should definitely get something akin to Little Jackie's saucy single 31 Flavours. It's funky, down n dirty and could probably have a kick ass rap in the middle of it. Brillo.
MARCUS ~ he wants to be the new Bruno Mars forward slash Olly Murs (if it is Olly getting all rock n roll with the Muppets, not dubstep Olly), so why not give him something a bit blistering, a bit retro and a bit contemporary like the very good indeed, criminally ignored song by Jerry Reid called Out Without Your Boyfriend. It's a rollicking good time and Marcus would put on quite the performance...
preFIX ~ If they are to win this competition despite their often mediocre performances, then they need a blistering song to launch their career. How about a relevant, up to date mix of the little known (in UK anyway) Play song, I Must Not Chase The Boys. It's cheeky, flirty, a bit of a wink at the audience and a massive chorus that could sound even more brilliant with the right production giving it a 2012 sheen...
RETURNING-ACT ~ lets face it, it honestly doesn't really matter that much what song she gets, because she'll only bellow it forth with all the finesse of a steam roller. However, if she shows a bit of restraint, the current Swedish single from Molly Sanden has a nice x-factor winner vibe about it...

THE SEMI FINALS:

Hurrah! It's the x factor semi finals. I love a good semi I do, so lets hope it lives up to my expectations :) Lots of "previously" happens while Carmin Burina plays dramatically (is there any other way for it to play?)Dermot comes in shuffling away with his dancing girls and nearly takes someones eye out with his hip thrusting. He is, of course, followed by the judges. Tulullah (which comes up as revolting on autocorrect on my phone. Coincidence?) is far far too skinny, promotes her cat piss perfume with her arm and looks a bit drunk. Drowning her sorrows at the flop N-Dubz hits album maybe??

MISHA ~ poor Misha B. I still blame her inexplicable lack of popularity on Tulullah. I am actually a bit devastated that I sit here preparing myself for a final that will actually feature shouting instead of her. Her "Dancing In The Street" has hot boys dancing, her hair looking amazing and some very weird, yet very hilarious "wiki wiki waka" ad lib at the end of the first line. She really can sing anything and make it sound entirely brilliant (though she should have sung Love Child).
RETURNING-ACT: KellyNotMarieOrClarkson has clearly had some sort of mini "episode" and was totally unprepared for the camera. So unprofesh. I've popped my earplugs in in anticipation of RA shouting her way through Ain't No Mountain High Enough. As always, she remembers to tone it down at the start, but she's soon pumping up the volume like M/A/R/S/S. The gospel choir and dancers do make it quite exuberant though in spite of this. KellyNotMarieOrClarkson bellows her critique at RA ("uhhh,may,zzing") because no one knows how to talk in normal volumes around her any more. And is Louis going to mention the geography of every contestant's home town and suggest they deserve to be in the final? I think he is...

preFIX ~ The wavering of likingness continues. I really think preFIX are more of a Reynolds Girl style act with better production values than a Girls Aloud style sensation. They do "You Keep Me Hanging On". They do look quite good this week so thank God the styling is being sorted. The vocals, however, are not brilliant. The dancing is very "count 1-2-3-4 in head, what's the next step, deer in headlights" panic style dancing. RedhairMix seems to mess up at one point and BlondehairMix overcompensates by over-emoting & shouting through the middle 8. The judges thought it was mediocre. They were right.
MARCUS ~ Apparently Marcus hates his name. Look, luv, it's a better popstar name than David Sneddon (this doesn't detract from the fact that Best of Order was excellent). Apparently part two - Marcus always wanted to make a music video and this is something he didn't get to do when he replaced the skinny tall one from Eton Road. And apparently part three, Robbie Williams wears onesies these days. Good gravy. Marcus does My Girl dressed as if he is off for a barley malt with the still closeted football captain. It totally works for him though as does his almost but not quite flawless vocal and performance. When it's over Gary does his "wave my fart away" gesticulating at the already too rowdy audience to get them to cheer louder.

MISHA ~ Misha is sitting down for a nice ballad version of Fucking Perfect by Pink, who was quite good last night when I went to see Happy Feet 2. This song was also on Glee this week and as Blaine (darren criss) sang it (with Kurt), it was very good on that because anything Darren Criss sings is gold. But I digress. Misha's version was lovely. It really focuses on her vocals and she gets to semi-rap in the semi-finals. The final few moments were absolutely gorgeous. The whole thing was mesmerising. I could hug Gary for his honest critique (well I could sometimes just hug Gary anyway :D) even though the truth of it is incredibly sad :(
RETURNING-ACT ~ There is some weird eye thing behind Returning-Act that isn't quite as filthy as the flaming gash in Lord of the Rings but gets close. She has successfully Stars In Their Eyes'd KellyActualClarkson and Christina Aguilera so I exhibit no surprise when she adds Avril Lavigne to the list of people she impersonates on a weekly basis. Tulullah's cheeks are a bit flushed - possibly from the booze as she still looks pie eyed, possibly from gary making her feel 2 inches tall in his last critique. The DILF-y fella is on a roll this week as he once again calls RA shouty. Brilliant...
MARCUS ~ What we need now from Marcus is a scintillating big production dance number. It's what we get but it is just ever so slightly off all the way through. Marcus descends from the heavens, is a bit wobbly vocally but soon picks it up (though low baritone notes aren't his friend) and has a good old boogie across the stage. It was a good performance, it wasn't an amazing performance and ergo boyband V can still claim they have done the best cover version of this song. Personally I would have changed the order of Marcus' songs (though what singing this first would have changed I don't know, so ignore my waffle).
preFIX ~ Tulullah introduces her little baps by doing a really good impression of Returning Act, ie, shouty shout shouting. Their VT is really annoying - stop blubbing already and get on with the song. They do If I Were A Boy and Jessie looks like she's been drugged. Actually she looks really angry all the way through the song like she's gonna knife a mother. It's not amazing at all and indeed it's only ok at the best of times. Louis basically says it's shit. Gary says they are shit. Tulullah then has a massive nervy b and looks a right clown. GOOD LORD.

THE RESULTS SHOW:

Voice over man explains that it is the semi final and therefore we will find out who makes the final! That is BRAND NEW INFORMATION!! God, ITV really have low expectations of their audience don't they??! Tulullah looks 3 sheets to the wind again. I do quite like Gary's flowery brooch however. It reminds me of one my gam gam used to wear...

GROUP NO ~ Oh sweet Christ, it's my beloved Wilson Phillips with my third fave song of theirs, Hold On. I half expect "bridesmaids - out now on blu-ray" to pop up on the screen. It's totally geared for Little Mix, but the trio of Marcus, Misha and yes, even shouty Returning Act show the groups wafer thin vocals up something rotten with their lovely harmonising. In your face Little Mix. Which is probably what Dappy shouted right before the pleasure moment when producing their winner's single. When the song is being sung quite well by Marcus, it occurs to me that Craig never sang a song that was by a male vocalist. Did he? He was like the reverse of the new Leann Rimes covers by men only album! It also occurs to me that if Returning Act had stayed in after week one that a) KellyNotMarieOrClarkson wouldn't have had to reinvent her support of her and retro-fit it into the show's history and b) she probably wouldn't have made it quite this far. Possibly. Or am I just having sweet dreams?
THE BIEBS ~ I can't say I'm a Biebs fan (though that Baby song is infernally catchy, the most catchy Baby song since Amy Grant's Baby Baby and Halo James' Baby) but I'm very forgiving of Christmas music, especially when it sounds like I'm Yours by Jason Mraz. Surely it's the first Christmas song to feature "shawty"? JLS will be well jealous, though their bastardisation of Do You Hear What I Hear is annoyingly catchy. Bring back Christmas theme week I say - remember the ace Pop Idol 2 festive single and album?? "kiss me under the mistletoe" sings the Biebs. "YES" screams Louis...
KELLYNOTCLARKSONORMARIE ~ I really like that Shake Them Haters Off single she did. Was it even released as a single or did I just imagine it? Not sure about this "medley" of hits, though she does have that vaguely amusing "trying far too hard" look in her eyes that used to befall Cherevyl Cole. NEXT...
RESULTS ~ Get on with it already. Oh ffs, Little Mix and their paper thin vocals are through. At least Marcus is next. Misha looks like she totally knows, just like she has ever since she got shafted royally by Tulullah all those weeks ago. Yup, she knows. Well done Britain on putting through shouty and a piss weak group. I would give up, but i've come this far so i'll see it through to the bitter end... It's all about Marcus then. Now, when can I pre-order Misha B's album?

Weekend Supplement ~ 2nd December 2011: Shane Stevens & Back To Earth

2011-12-02T01:30:00.000-08:00

Well flap me sideways and bugger me gently! It's the second day of December and after a massive onslaught of festive themed posts, I've decided to give you the day off by showcasing a young fella singer i've become a bit smitten with. In case (like me) you are already having festive withdrawal symptoms, grab yourself a venti Praline Mocha & a mince pie and visit some of my recommendations for seasonal songs this year...

Fancy a very Deluxe Christmas? Click here...
It's the new festive Killers song as well as a look back at their previous efforts here...
Teen Dream Christmas featuring Joe McElderry, Justin Bieber & Go Go Go (+ a round up of my fave 10 pop-xmas songs) here...
New Christmas singles from Plain White T's, Natasha Bedingfield and One Republic here...
Elf The Musical soundtrack here...
A swinging Christmas with Michael Buble, Mans Zelmerlow and Matt Dusk here...
Best intro to Christmas single ever from Matt West here...
A very Mariah Christmas here...
Elouise and her Santa's Little Belter EP here...
And finally, the charming Boy Banned single here...

Introducing Shane Stevens:

Ladies and gentlemen, he may not have met a sleeveless shirt he didn't love, but when not showing off his guns, Shane Stevens is a bonafide, burgeoning music talent that you should be keeping an eye on. His debut single, Back To Earth, is a country tinged pop-rock affair that is built around sumptuous piano chords, a distinctive & confident vocal, a real knack for melody and a chorus that grabs you from the onset before pulling you inevitably deeper into the song. It's all about that soaring feeling you get when your life feels so much more jubilant when you are young & in love. The production of the music appropriately mirrors the optimistic, joyous lyrical content and there are some cracking "whoa=ho=ho" as backing ad libs as the song draws far too early to a close. A fine taster then from his upcoming EP and ooo, look - there's a video. Here's one of my tongue in cheek breakdowns of what is occurring visually...

Shane is in bed (hurrah!) in a sleeveless top. He is clearly just waking up because he does the human version of a cat licking itself by giving his face a good ol' rub to bring itself to life...
He gets up dead quick like, in an "oooo i've completely overslept and now i'm going to be late all the live long day" sort of way. It's clearly the morning after a bit of a shin dig, as his place is a right mess. Lets hope that this isn't how he always keeps the place or he will be needing to hire the services of a maid. Or one of those naked butler fellas. I plump for the latter personally.
Blimey! Shane is wolfing down his breakfast. I think it's cheerios, but I could be mistaken. It might be rice crispies. He is going to get indigestion at this rate and then he will have to stop off to get some Rennies.
He has a good scrub of his teeth. He is quite a vigorous brusher, until he clearly remembers some pleasant memory from his shin dig as he pauses, brush in mouth, and has a little smile to himself. No flossing though... :D
Shane may be the only waiter in the entire universe who walks to work with such a spring in his step. Frankly, I would walk with a spring in my step if I looked that good after a boozy party. I usually look like crap :(
Shane slightly leers over some very happy looking couple then decides that life is too short to be waiting on other happy looking couples when he could be part of a happy looking couple himself. he throws his apron on the floor (litter bug!) and some quite fierce looking woman (think Joan Ferguson from Cell Block H) runs after him.
She gives him a proper finger wagging (this is not a euphamism)! I almost expected her to start shaking her fist at the sky. I suspect that she is telling him that he is breaking all sorts of employment laws by walking off the job like that. And if he thinks he's getting the denim jacket back he's clearly forgotten, well then he's very much mistaken :)
Shane has now changed. He is in a cardigan and a nice stripey t-shirt. When I wear a cardigan, I look like Roy Cropper (google him), so must take some style tips. He is jolly happy and pleased with himself.
A pair of boobs float past the screen at about 1m50s!! Some girls are snogging in the street...
Shane looks a bit "aww, i want to be snogging in the street" at this. He does wistful well. It makes you want to give him a hug, chuck him on the chin and go "buck up there soldier!"
Ooo, maybe he knew I was thinking that because what follows is a bit of "yay life, yay me, yay my cardigan and amazing cheekbones" moment as he throws his hands in the air (but doesn't wave them round like he just don't care)...
Shane is so lost in the moment that he doesn't notice two burly security guards chasing after some miscreant. Or assassin! Yes i bet it was a ninja assassin... how exciting the streets of New York can be :)
In fact, Shane is just oblivious to anything that isn't the thought of his special someone. He practically ruins a marathon and ignores a mime. This is all well and good, even romantic when it takes place in a video, but i accidentally wandered into the path of a marathon once and you would have thought i had stolen a baby from the ferocious reaction I got!!
He is now on a rooftop, the sun is shining, he is spinning around (Kylie) and having a right good singalong. However, he keeps checking his phone that looks like a cassette tape and I am scared that his special someone won't turn up... the goons!
HURRAH! They did turn up :) Phew. Although you don't get to see their face. BAH. Perhaps it will be continued in the next video???

Top 21 songs of the week:

21 ~ The Feeling ft Sophie Ellis Bextor, Leave Me Out Of It (NE/VID)
20 ~ Simon Curtis, How To Start A War (NE)
19 ~ The Overtones, Whoops (NE)
18 ~ Nerina Pallot, Butterfly
17 ~ Indigo Girls, We Get To Feel It All
16 ~ Jason Mraz, The World As I See It
15 ~ Kevin Borg, Unstoppable
14 ~ Gravitonas, Lucky Star
13 ~ Auryn, Last Night on Earth
12 ~ Marit Larsen, Coming Home
11 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
10 ~ One Direction, Gotta Be You
09 ~ William Young, Come On
08 ~ Erasure, Be With You
07 ~ JLS, Take A Chance On Me
06 ~ Olly Murs, Dance With Me Tonight
05 ~ Same Difference, Music
04 ~ Shona White & Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
03 ~ Eric Saade ft Dev, Hotter Than Fire
02 ~ Boy Banned, The Stars Are Saying Yes
01 ~ Elouise, Dear Santa (1 week)

Coming soon ~ x factor semis! A very duetting Christmas! New festive singles! A very Nordic Christmas... and much more seasonal cheer :)

Christmas 2011 ~ In magic we trust...

2011-12-01T06:17:00.001-08:00

Well hello everyone. I must say you are looking resplendent today, though I'm not sure about what you've done to your hair :D No, I'm just teasing, you look lovely obviously. Anyway, it is December 1st, I have my 3 advent calendars set up and it is now officially the start of the most wonderful time of the year. And what better way to celebrate than to dive into an EP of deliciously addictive seasonal tunes for your house and tree decorating soundtrack...

ARMAND DELUXE ~ IN THE MAGIC WE TRUST (CHRISTMAS EP 2011):

In The Magic We Trust (2011) by Armand Deluxe

As if his 2010 Christmas EP (ecoutez here, s'il vous plait) wasn't enough, Mr Deluxe is back with enough jingle bell magic to power Santa's sleigh. There are 3 brazenly amazing new tunes as well as a bit of a retwiddle of my very favourite track from the 2010 'affair'. It all kicks off with the extremely convivial It's Almost Christmas Day, a party singalong that is saturated with chimes, bells and a perky, kicky beat that will have you swaying along to Terrence Davis' "hell yeah, it's Christmas" vocal style. The instrumental feels instantly familiar, as if elements of every festive song you've ever known have been thrown into the Deluxe blender to create something sparkling for you. Lyrically it details how you should just embrace the season, forget your woes and just get on with being happy. Love the subtle addition of a kiddie choir in the chorus, it adds a cute factor but it's certainly not overpowering. This is followed by The First Thing On My Christmas List, sung by Eve Washington. This manages to succeed in doing what made acts like Abba and Steps so successful - it's a quirky, peppy, pop tune with a soaring melody & catchy chorus that acts as a complete juxtaposition to the somewhat downbeat lyrics of spending Christmas without that special someone who can make it all complete. The rockier, yearning middle 8 is a giddy little treat before that delectable chorus returns to tantalise your senses all over again. If only all pop music were this "teardrops on the disco floor", the world would be a better place...

Next up is a gorgeous, classic sounding number called What It Took To Get Here (Ding Dong), a timeless little ditty that could have been sung by Doris Day. however, it's ably performed by Alina Mirela who gives this jazz tinged production a little sass and a lot of attitude. The "ding dong" refrain in the chorus is devilishly clever and one of the most fun things I've heard this year. Oh and the piano is so playful & teasing in the middle 8, before additional chimes come in is a joy to listen to. It really is like listening to a years old festive standard, yet it's new and entirely wonderful. The EP is all too soon rounded off with a 2011 remix of the spectacular The Echo Will Be In My Heart. Talk about a rousing vocal performance from Eartha Willis, who takes control of the track and allows the percolating chiming melody and E-Street Band-esque horns to perfectly complement her exuberance and energy. It's a little more ethereal and floating than last year's version, but still flutters like a snowflake, conjouring up images of a peppermint winter that's so sugar sweet, you won't need a taste to believe...

So all in all, a pleasing mix of genres, a thorough understanding of seasonal music from all involved and some genuinely engaging tunes that remain embedded in your brain long after the music has stopped. Well done Mr Deluxe, writer, producer, DJ extraordinaire, all round nice guy and foxy fella. In your magic I trust.

Christmas 2011: The Killers ~ The Cowboy's Christmas Ball

2011-11-30T04:10:00.001-08:00

There are two things about The Killers that can be taken as standard. One is that lead singer Brandon Flowers gets hotter every year (like a latter day Gary Barlow). Two is that reliable as clockwork and timely as Santa's sleigh, they release a festive themed single on December 1st each year in order to raise awareness and funds for AIDS charities (as part of the RED campaign, and in conjunction with World Aids Day). This years effort is a real corker so here is all the information...

This year, it's time to get your yeehaw on as The Killers give us their most country music take on Christmas yet. It's a peppy, jingle bell chiming good time set over an energetic bluegrass riff, with Brandon in storyteller mode, giving us the low down on (yes, you guessed it) the cowboy's Christmas ball. I imagine this is a bit like those not very glamorous at all events at Southfork Ranch in Dallas where multi millionaires would turn up for a BBQ. Frankly, not enough pop or Christmas songs reference the killer line dance move of the dosey do, so there's a big plus right there. It slots alongside Brandon's ambition to be the vast, jackanory of a sweeping America & it's so bloody enjoyable from start to finish that there's not much to moan about really. Oh, and in case you aren't up to date, here is what was delivered in Christmas pasts from The Killers...

A Great Big Sled (ft Toni Halliday) (review here)
Don't Shoot Me Santa (review here)
Joseph, Better You Than Me (ft Elton John & Neil Tennant)(review here)
¡Happy Birthday Guadalupe! (ft Wild Light & Mariachi El Bronx) (review here)
Boots (review here)

Christmas 2011 ~ Pop Goes Christmas! (Joe McElderry, Justin Bieber, Go Go Go!)

2011-11-29T07:03:00.001-08:00

Teen pop is ace at any time of year. It does (for me anyway) take on a certain je ne sais quois mixed with joie de vivre during the holiday period. Here are some albums and music by current teen dreams, along with a playlist of essential festive teen pop from days of "yore"...

Joe McElderry ~ Classic Christmas:

Aw. Little Geordie Joe. It's almost like the world has watched him blossom from a boy into a fine young fella you could take home to your mom. After winning the X Factor, it's true his career didn't pan out the way he probably thought it would (though I still maintain his debut album is a poppy delight), but went on to win Popstar to Operastar and endear himself to a whole new audience. His Classic Christmas album (see my review of his Last Christmas single here) successfully balances styles for fans of both shows. At times he is a traditional popstar, in other places his voice soars with his operatic training (particularly on the duets). Joe manages to put a fresh spin on the tunes that are wheeled out by music acts across the world this time as year, as well as doing some lovely interpretations of the lesser known tunes. While Last Christmas remains my favourite, his vocals really shine through on tracks like When A Child Is Born (one of my favourite carols ever) and his dreamy rendition of White Christmas. Perfect music for decorating the tree to and then rewarding yourself with a peppermint hot chocolate. Ah Joe :)

Justin Beiber ~ Under The Mistletoe:

Oh my. I am actually writing about a Justin Beiber album. I did quite like that Baby Baby Baby track (even in Little Mix format) and I am prone to being 3D and shouting "Never. Say. Never!", which is a bit of an oxymoron when you really think about it. However, even acts I'm lukewarm on can chuck out a festive album and before you know it I'll have (in this case) BeiberFever! There is a mix of Justin penned originals, as well as teaming up with Christmas veterans like Mariah Carey, Boys II Men & The Band Perry. It's quite a likeable collection of tunes (not sure the word "shawty" works for me in a Christmas song, but i am quite old now :D), with FaLaLaLaLa (with Boys II Men) being a sumptuous highlight alongside his suprisingly addictive Christmas Song with Usher. It's nice to have an upbeat, modern take on the Christmas season :)

Go Go Go ~ A Mistletoe MashUP:

Blimey! Those Go Go Go boys are quick off the mark aren't they? While entertaining the kiddies at Alton Towers (alongside West End shows), you can tell that the heart of a pop band beats under the children entertainer exterior. This has started to sparkle forth in some of their youtube clips and non more so than their frankly quite delicious take on the aforementioned Justin Beiber song. The stripped back, stark yet gentle acoustic version by Steve and Carl is quite lovely to behold; I like how sincere they are about the vocals before they seamlessly blend into the romantic I'm Yours by Jason Mraz. The songs weave over and through each other and both boys' vocal delivery really stand out. But when they harmonise? Oh, so engaging :) Do check out their perky cover of 10,000 Nights by Alphabeat too! Hurrah!

My top ten pop into Christmas classics:

Christmas 2011 ~ An alternative guide to my proposed Christmas number one competitors...

2011-11-28T03:16:00.000-08:00

For years now, the Christmas number one has been dominated by the x-factor winner (or, whichever novelty/alternative track there is a facebook campaign to promote). It wasn't always this way, and acts would go out of their way to release a single that gave them the best chance for that all important and prestigious festive number one. It would often be a real surprise hearing who had taken the top spot and solidified their place in history. Sadly that doesn't seem to happen any more, but that doesn't mean I don't imagine what songs would have a good shot if a) the world had my taste in music and b) we lived in a world where the x in xmas didn't stand for X Factor, but the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of Santa. here are some alternative tracks for your approval if you don't fancy all the seasonal stuff I've been pushing on you :)

THE FIZZYPOP CHRISTMAS NUMBER ONE CONTENDERS:

The Great Tribulations ~ Go Back To The Beginning Of The End: Ooo, new act alert! The Great Tribulations are from Denmark, brothers, nerds by day and superheroes of music by night. Their debut track, presented for your listening pleasure above, is a weirdly off kilter, but ultimately enticing blend of sparkly gothic pop that blends elements of acts as diverse as The Killers & A-ha. It's racing, pulsing disco beat is the heart of the song that stacattos & stutters (purposely) in parts, only to spring back into life, ever more essential than before. The vocals are deliciously hypnotic, pulling you into the story the song tells, making it so you don't want the experience to end. A fine debut, can't wait for more...
The Feeling ~ Leave Me Out Of It/Rocket Man: They may not be the multi platinum artists they formally were, but that doesn't mean that Dan & the lads aren't capable of producing lovely radio fodder that deserves to be heard by as wide an audience as possible. If I were them, I'd have this out as a new single (it's a lovely duet with foxy Richard's missus Sophie EB-J that is beautifully delivered and reminds me of a modern day Don't Give Up) with their new, faithful version of Rocket Man as a double A side (buy the latter here, it's a giddy little treat). Their album remains one of my faves this year and I'm just dying to go to their festive show on Dec 20th in Bath...
Simon Curtis ~ How To Start A War: I haven't spent nearly as much time on Simon's latest album RA this year as I have his previous efforts in days of yonder. I did however fall in love with the filthy Flesh (I'm now picturing the video as an homage to Rubber Man from American Horror Story!) and his ace of base-ish duet with Ro Danishei (Wicked Baby) is one of my top songs of the year. This is a more studied, careful effort from Simon - and for me out of everything on RA best demonstrates his singing ability and songwriting skills. It's a tune that even 6 months after initially hearing it I'm not tired of and indeed stands alongside any of his idol Darren Hayes' recent work. Exquisite and exquisitely sad...

Nelson Clemente ~ Champagne: I have criminally not been aware of Aussie singer, Mr Clemente in the past, though I was aware of his sparkling contribution to the Ballroom Remixed project earlier this year. His new single, Champagne, wins on both pleasing cover art and an absorbing, ingratiating tune that shines from start to finish. Set over a perky disco/dance beat (though his fine vocals are given a chance to blossom in the verses), it's a tale of looking on the brightside, a tale of optimism and hope with clever lyrics, insightful bon mots and a chorus that just won't quit. Because it's 2 legit. 2 legit to quit. in other words, it's a smashing party anthem that will benefit any office Christmas party this coming season :) More please, Nelson...
The Overtones ~ Whoops/Forget You: I know, I know any bloody chance to write about my beloved Overtones. Frankly with Westlife imploding just before splitting up, they are my go to group for style tips, catchy songs and witty twitters. Whoops would make a brilliant single - awash with seductive horns, pertinent & sharp piano chords and a huge big band feel that enhances the song from it's vocally central acoustic version to a soaring, jazz infused party that just refuses to end. Throw their finger snapping charity cover of Forget You on the flip side and it's an out and out winning combination. Grand!

Single Selection ~ Jonas Oakland, Ms Trez, Donkeyboy, Youngblood & Eclipse

2011-11-27T05:02:00.000-08:00

Ok, Christmas is in full swing here at myfizzypop (not an actual place!) so I am having to bombard you with a plethora of new and exciting non festive tunes from the scandinavian pop world today. This will enable you to feast on the amazing swe-pop goodness before returning to your seasonal diet of Christmas amazingness (not an actual word!). Here's what I've got lined up on my mp3 player this morning...

Jonas Oakland ~ Where Were You Last Night:

Take one hard working, amazingly cheekboned upcoming Swedish popstar. Throw in a soft rock classic beloved in Sweden since the 80s. Add a dark and throbbing electro-club twist to the proceedings and what do you get? If your answer is "the amazing new single from Jonas Oakland", then pat yourself on the head for you are correct. And what a bloody corker it is! From it's icy cool synth driven to opening to Jonah's impassioned vocal delivery, all with added beats that throb so hard your speakers seem to come to life. It seems to grow and grow until it explodes out of the middle 8 in a cascade of enticing dance rhythms that command you to shake your money maker. I defy you not to want to dance after hearing this track. Dear god, please tell me there are some remixes on the way. A condifent step forward in an already intruiging career from the charming Mr Oakland. Trust me, he doesn't need the comparisons to BWO, Simon Curtis et al. He's a complete pop entity in his own right. Well done...

Ms. Trez ~ Louder:

While the UK seems to be under the spell of the not-as-good-as-people-think-they-are Little Mix, I'm all about this spicy Stockholm based girl group Ms Trez (misstress, geddit?). They just seem to effortlessly exude pop sass and class - and nowhere is this better exhibited than on their feisty single, Louder. Set over a down and dirty insistent groove that cast a spell over your hips, grinding them onto the dancefloor, the girls deliver a sultry vocal that all culminates in a schlager fuelled, hands in the air, exuberant chorus. It's instantly memorable and a stand out entry in the crowded girl group market. Safe to say, Wonderland this is not. It's quite clear that all involved, including the writers and producers, have an inherent love and understanding of pop that shines forth in each note, beat and vocal treat. As Rachel Stevens once sang, more more more please :)

Donkeyboy ~ City Boy:

After a nigh on perfect first album, Norwegian pop group Donkeyboy are back and the internet is spaffing up the chuff over their ever so fine new single City Boy. With shades of Pet Shop Boys, what initially seems to be a sparse percussive club groove grows and evolves into a warmer, inviting pop track that is enhanced by an enchanting melody & addictive chorus. They remain the kings of subtlety and understatement as the song draws you in with each progressive listen. Add to this a video that is reminiscent of a Doctor Who episode and they have another winner on their hands. So X Factor winner's single 2012 then??

Youngblood ~ Blame It On You:

SCREAM! New Swedish boyband alert!! I haven't been smitten with a Swedish boyband since What's Up back in around 2007 (the group that spawned - ooer - Eric Saade), but I am already pants off charmed by these boys (well it doesn't take much). It helps that they have a modern, yet not inaccessible look about them and of course (most importantly) a highly catchy, relevant debut single in Blame It on You. It's peppy, perky and built around a more organic real instrumental build up rather than studio bleeps and tweaks. It's part McFly, part A1, part One Direction but seemingly all YoungBlood. Am loving that finger clicking, foot tapping stripped back middle 8 before a final run through of the entirely compulsive, magnificent chorus. Stuck in my head already, i'll be singing this for days. Thanks Scandipop for the heads up!!

Eclipse ~ Never Give Up:

G4? Loved them. Blake? Can't get enough! Il Divo - i'll partake in their wicked game... So yes, I'm all on board for (p)operatic new Swedish group Eclipse, which gives three fine gentlemen the chance to show off their lush, rich vocal harmonies all while looking good in a tux. Never Give Up is appropriately sweeping, with nice orchestral flourishes alongside a lovely acoustic guitar. The gorgeous baritones and tenors send shivers down my spine, particularly when they all seamlessly blend during the chorus. It's all very majestic, romantic and filled with (& fuelled by?) hope & optimism. There's a truly stirring middle 8 before a massive, key change that powers the song to it's dramatic conclusion. Breathtaking :) I fully approve.

The X Factor 2011 ~ Live Shows: Week 8 (Guilty Pleasures & Heroes)

2011-11-26T23:59:00.001-08:00

After this week there are only 2 more weeks to go with the factor that purports to have the "X"... Dermot is feeling particularly perky at this thought and does his most mortifying yet oddly engaging dance routine to date. Nice waistcoat though which reminds me it's £25 off if you spend £100 online at Burtons today. Hurrah! He reminds us that this week, no one is safe, which has surely been the point of the show the whole time?! The judges enter and Tulullah defies OFCOM by doing double arm advertising for her perfume, which I'm pretty sure has the tagline "Tulullah - it's the scent that lingers longer than she does". Classy. Dermot has a quick chat to Louis to fill time, and the wee fella says he wants to see someone who will have a career in the music industry. He will. Janet will be making his tea for years to come down at Walsh Enterprises...

LITTLE MIX ~ My wavering between loving Little Mix and absolutely despising them veers towards "love" as they head off to Winter Wonderland and do a passable acapella of Mariah's All I Want For Christmas. THEY KNOW HOW TO WIN ME OVER, those little muffins (Wha?!) How fun. Their first song is actually 2 songs and gets off to a dodgy start with a wobbling vocal. Once the added pre-recorded vocals come in, it's much improved. I think once I accept that they are not the greatest girl group to come out of the UK ever (hyperbole much, KellyNotClarkson?!), I'm oddly drawn to their medley of Justin BeiberFever's Baby and The Supremes' Where Did Our Love Go, though it's no Streets Have No Name (Can't Take My Eyes Off You) by Pet Shop Boys. Looking back over the series, it's been subtly and not so subtly set up that a girl group gets this far. The boys were jinxed by musical chairs within their line up, throwing goddawful contestants like Frankie into the (little) mix (literally, probably the horn dog) and harping on about how girl groups never do well. If Eternal reformed with this as a blistering dance mix single, I would probably like it more...
JANET ~ Janet is not a Christmas person. SHUT THE FRONT DOOR! DEVIL!! Based on that very statement alone, I am done with the devil-in. She has literally turned her back on the birth of santa and the greatest time of year?! Bah humbug to you evil genius. Bah humbug. A pox on your house. Ooo my pox has worked. Her version of MmmBop? Never has the song sounded less like a good time; her dancing is awkward and awful; her right arm flails around as if independent of her actual body... Even before she misses her cue, it seems as if she just can't be bothered. "It was a real mess" says Gary sagely (he does sage so well. And stuffing. *insert rude joke here*) The audience inexplicably boo at this, as if it wasn't a real mess. BONKERS!
MISHA B ~ Let's just forget last week's outfit happened. Hurrah! Misha is happy this week so no more devastatingly cringeworthy conversations with KellyNotClarkson. I'm not sure in which universe Girls Just Wanna Have Fun is a guilty pleasure, but Misha has obviously been listening to the Happy Feet 2 soundtrack and decided that, like Pink, putting Rhythm Nation as the backing track to another popular song works wonders. And it does. The rap is hilariously rapid fire brilliance, though I am slightly distracted from it by darren doing a booty dance. In a snuggie. I have just noticed by the way, that KellyNotClarkson is wearing Kath (of Kath and Kim fame)'s dress from the episode where she has a hen party and spray tanned the wrong shoulder. Amaze.

MARCUS ~ Ooo you can really see his alleged botox. Marcus has a nice practice in Gary's recording studio and goes on about how amazing it all is, even though he has obviously been in a recording studio loads of times before, not least to record the X Factor Charity Single (now with even less Cocozza!) He does Wham's Im Your Man (as a tribute to poorly George apparently) and of course it's gleeful, playful and a little bit sexually flirtatious in parts. Oh my. He steals the Aston-Marvin JLS move of flashing his stomach and then proceeds to thrust his crotch in Louis' face. Oh my part two. I love Marcus. It was a tiny bit shouty, but I adored it. I would buy that tomorrow if it were a proper studio recording...
RETURNING-ACT ~ Apparently her fans are called Lilies. Dear Lord. "Do It For Middlesbrough" says some really gruff builder in the VT. Well that's a ringing endorsement for her then. KellyNotClarkson says we will see a different side of Returning Act this week. This means China In Your Hands, which starts off all soft, then gets very shouty. She just about straddles the line between powerful controlled vocal and shouting in the chorus, but the shouting always wins through. I literally had to turn down the volume at one point. Clearly I heard something different from the judges/rest of the world because they loved it. I think it must have been nostalgia for the song!! BESERK!!

LITTLE MIX ~ We are onto heroes songs now. It all gets a bit serious and preachy as Little Mix become ambassadors for loving yourself. Or something. They are doing x factor staple Beautiful by Christina Aguilera. Returning Act and Christina lookalikey will be furious. She'll have to pretend to be Kelly Clarkson now. Look, it's not as good as Damien doing it in Mean Girls and like Girls Aloud's See The Day, it's all very well intentioned but ultimately quite boring. It's not manipulative at all either that they get Jessie to do the bit at the beginning and end. Perhaps if they stopped harping on about her supposedly non-conformist size, we could all just get on and concentrate on the singing! I've veered towards not liking them again now. Will have to rewatch the medley...
JANET ~ The VT about the stress of learning 2 songs is now brilliantly appropriate. She then says that she doesn't want to mess up the words!! What a stitch up! KellyNotClarkson says Janet's musical tastes are quite alternative as the Devil-in starts to sing Under The Bridge by multi million selling, world renown act All Saints... uh, I mean Red Hot Chilli Peppers. The dreadful wailing like a banshee at the end of the tune is just downright awful on a level not seen since Frankie. Gary and Tulullah give brilliant passive-aggressive backhanded compliments. The heroes section of the show is on a one way track to dullsville. Bring on Misha B!!
MISHA B ~ please don't do a ballad Misha. This half of the show is a snooze. Oh, it is a ballad. it's Killing Me Softly. It could still be saved by some Fugees style arrangements and a "one time". Yay! Fugees it is. It's quite understated, lovely and still a little bit dull. She does immerse herself into the song though which enhances the performance greatly. Oh what a concise analysis from me. Onto the next then!

MARCUS ~ I do like Lately by Stevie Wonder. S Club 7 (mostly Bradley though) did a lovely version (no really!) so I will judge it on that. Firstly, Marcus in a tux? Yes please. Secondly, it's better than S Club. It's almost but not quite on a par with Over The Rainbow by Shayne Ward, which remains my favourite X Factor performance ever. Loved it. LOVED. IT. KellyNotClarkson spouts some shit about it that is factually inaccurate. Ignore her cos as the Borelow says, it was sensational.
RETURNING-ACT ~ That Happy Feet 2 commercial was inspired genius. "you look like a rainbow" "yeah a rainbow with man titties" Amazing. Returning Act cannot top that, though as predicted (no, I genuinely wrote the bit about her being Kelly Clarkson before she came on!) she is doing a KellyActualClarkson song. That. Is. Uptempo. Hurrah. It's all fine, but then it's earplug time as she literally bellows her way through the choruses and middle 8 (where she doesn't even attempt Kelly's high notes) with all the grace and emotional depth of a rampaging hippo. I'm speechless...

THE RESULTS SHOW:

No dance for Dermot tonight, but there is a solid gold (presumably) tie pin and an inordinately long "previously". Dermot "woofs" when he announces Jessie J is on the show. I'm not sure what this means (but I am weirdly looking forward to Olly Murs performing with the Muppets. Will it be Olly and the Murrpets?!) Tulullah has a hula hoop on her thumb for when she is peckish later. Kelly Not Clarkson couldn't be arsed with her hair so did a plait. Lazy...

OLLY ~ I do love this song. It may well be - nay is - his best single to date. The whole Muppets thing is ridiculously cutesy but as a huge muppets fan works for me. Miss Piggy just makes me smile and the whole thing has me busting out the A Muppets Christmas Carol DVD (so good, blu ray it already Disney!) Two things - first, Olly in a tux? Oh yes please and may I? Two - the short haired dancer at the front looks like my friend Mark. Is she a man in drag? Whatever, she makes Tulullah look feminine so that's a plus. Best muppets collab since Kylie and Kermit did Especially for You...
JESSIE J ~ like with Little Mix, I waver in my devotion to Jessie J (the J stands for Jay). Sometimes she is ace and releases songs like Price Tag and Who's Laughing Now. Then she goes and compares her busted ankle to being an amputee. The goon. I'll have to tolerate her if I'm going to blog the voice next year (heaven help you all). She has stolen the set of Janet Devil-in's Kiss Me, but forgot to light the lamps. It's all very nice if you like that sort of thing...
CHARITY SINGLE ~ Now just the contestants aren't good enough, so there is added JLS and One Direction. However, great cause. Misha and Marcus shine, Sophie is surprisingly good, Amelia shouts, Charlie Nu Risk is still quite hot, Frankie is absent and Kitty gets mercifully little screen time. Buy it. Download it. Investigate the cause.
RESULTS ~ Oh the tension. I can't bear it. Oh wait. I can. Phew. Oh vile. In the continuing tradition of "if you were bottom two last week, we'll announce you are safe first this week", ReturningAct lives to bellow another week. At least Marcus is through. Thank Christ. I find myself shouting Come ON MISHA at the screen but it doesn't work as muffin munching little mix (hey, words can't bring them down) love themselves through to the semi final. Misha is never going to win is she? At least this means a far more innovative and exciting debut album is in the works...
SING OFF ~ KellyNotClarkson does her best sad face, the one you couldn't see when she did her best sick voice a few weeks back. Janet forgets to put on a skirt and does Chasing Cars. If she lies on the floor a la Izzy in the season 2 finale of Grey's Anatomy (DENNY!), even I'll bloody vote her back in. She doesn't - instead, she makes me wish I was still on time delay so I could fast forward because BY GOD THIS IS DULL. KellyNotClarkson looks like she has had a stroke during Janet's snoozeathon which isn't surprising. Misha B does Out There On My Own from Fame. Every note is amazing. (Next year's charity single should so be Starmaker). The girl is stunning. So i'm kind of glad Misha was bottom 2 so I got to hear this majesty :) Luckily the judges agree, Janet is dispatched. She looks elated and basically says FUCK YOU to the X Factor, in a round about sort of way, forgetting that it us that put her where she is now, and we can put her back down too. The ingrate. She didn't even know what conditioner was before the factor of X!!! SHEESH!

See you at the semi finals? I love a good semi, I do...

Weekend Supplement 25th November 2011 ~ One Month til Christmas 2011!!

2011-11-25T10:20:00.001-08:00

The same level of dread that some people feel knowing there is only one month til Christmas is around the same level of joy I get at the same news. I can legitimately play Christmas tunes to my hearts content without funny looks from people; the world feels a little brighter, a little more hopeful to me and it's sort of sad that it only lasts for 4-6 weeks of the year. And today is Black Friday! So if you are one of my Americanos (blue jeans and chinos) readers, you will have no doubt had a lovely thanksgiving and bought lots of discounted clothes at Hollister, Abercrombie and Express for me (for which I thank you!) Here are some new festive singles you may not have had chance to listen to yet...

CHRISTMAS 2011 ~ WE 3 SINGS:

One Republic ~ Christmas Without You: I'm always smitten like a smitten little kitten with songs entitled Christmas Without You. Take a goosey goosey gander at my thoughts on such titled songs from 80s teen sensations Debbie Gibson and Tommy "better with age" Page respectively :D And now Ryan "you would, wouldn't you?!" Tedder and his One Republic boys have whipped up a melancholy little tune to add to this collection. It's constructed around an ethereal, almost whimsical piano opening that then grows into a swaying mid tempo bluesy vibe. The lyrics are quite sad, tinged with regret and recriminations. I do like that there's an air of hope and optimism despite being quite a downbeat song. Ryan does the desperate, pleading vocal quite well and there's no doubting his songwriting ability. You'll just want to have something a bit perkier on hand for when the song comes to a close...
Plain White T's ~ Nuttin' For Christmas: ...and this will do the job nicely. Fresh from the hallowe'en song triumph House On Shady Lane, those boys in Plain White T's are back with a rollicking singalong from the third in the hilariously charming Prep & Landing cartoon specials (usually airing on ABC). It's called Nuttin' For Christmas and is all about the T's being on the naughty list this year but launching through a blistering power-pop punky instrumental with such gleefully devil-may-care vocals that you can't help but feel they probably don't care anyway :D A giddy little treat :)
Natasha Bedingfield ~ Shake Up Christmas: Whatever happened to Natasha Bedingfield? Well she is back with an entirely enjoyable, tis the season style tune that, yes, does sound a bit like a Christmas remix of These Words, but is so delightful in it's delivery that you soon find yourself singing along. It's all part of the Coca Cola campaign which helps make sense of the title, but even without that association, it's quite quite mesmerisingly lovely...

Top 21 songs of the week:

21 ~ Nerina Pallot, Butterfly (NE)
20 ~ Indigo Girls, We Get To Feel It All (NE)
19 ~ The Feeling, Dance For The Lights
18 ~ Darren Hayes, Bloodstained Heart
17 ~ Steps, Dancing Queen
16 ~ Kevin Borg, Unstoppable
15 ~ Jason Mraz, The World As I See It
14 ~ Gravitonas, Lucky Star
13 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
12 ~ Marit Larsen, Coming Home
11 ~ Auryn, Last Night On Earth
10 ~ William Young, Come On
09 ~ One Direction, Gotta Be You
08 ~ Erasure, Be With You
07 ~ Shona White & Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
06 ~ Olly Murs, Dance with Me Tonight
05 ~ Same Difference, Music
04 ~ JLS, Take A Chance on Me
03 ~ Elouise, Dear Santa (Bring Me A Man)
02 ~ Boy Banned, Stars Are Saying Yes
01 ~ Eric Saade ft Dev, Hotter Than Fire (4 weeks)

Coming soon: Duetting this Christmas, theatrical at Christmas, teeny bop Christmas and *GASP* a full video breakdown of Love Actually. IT'S EPIC!!

Christmas 2011: The theatricals (Elf The Musical; Winter Wondrettes...)

2011-11-24T05:07:00.000-08:00

While I impatiently await the once rumoured (I think, i might have just dreamed it) Mariah Carey musical based on her Christmas albums (i think it was to do with some evil man, or Janet Devlin, building a mall and ruining Christmas, etc), there are a few stage shows with a highly festive theme that are totally worth your while. Here are two fairly recent additions to the Christmas musical genre, as well as two ghosts of Christmas musicals-ish past...

Elf ~ The Musical:

Weirdly, considering my quite ample love of Christmas, I was never that into Elf The Movie. However, add a few show tunes, some jingle bells and a jazz hands dance routine, plonk it on a stage and I am so there. The stage story isn't that much different to the movie version, with Buddy determined to help his real father and the cynical New Yorkers discover the true meaning of Christmas. It's sort of Big meets every Christmas movie ever made, but there is so much charm and feelgood factor here that it is nigh on impossible to dislike. And the soundtrack is a chintzy, sparkling festive bauble treat. Much like this year's critical darling Book of Mormon Broadway, the tunes feel instantly familiar by emulating songs you already know and love - they are performed with such exuberance and joy that you instantly get swept up in the emotion of the songs & find yourself singing along. Of particular note are the glorious opening number "Christmastown" - it's all choral falalalas, perky lyrics & matching vocal delivery, chimes and bells and of course the most rousing chorus this side of "Belle" (the opening tune from Beauty and the Beast); "Nobody Cares About Santa" is a refreshingly snarky lament by criticized Kris Kringles on the lack of yuletide civility, and "Never Fall in Love," a harshly funny comedy number for Buddy's love interest, has bite and sass, especially as delivered by Amy Spanger, Broadway's go-to girl for spunky ingénues. Overall, even if you haven't seen the stage show, the story is well told through the music and it's a memorable score that keeps on giving with each listen. Lovely...

The Winter Wonderettes:

This is the not widely known sequel to the not widely known Marvelous Wonderettes musical by Roger Bean. The story is basically that Santa has gone missing at the local store, so the Wonderettes have to step in and entertain the townsfolk with a variety of singalong festive treats. It's certainly more of a singalong delight than an out and out musical, but the classic, almost Andrews Sisters-esque arrangements of the tunes along with some pitch perfect harmonies make for some jolly listening. Songs like Dear Santa (to the tune of Mr Sandman), Jingle Bells and Rocking Around The Christmas Tree have a real zest, pep and energy to them, while Christmas Will Be Just Another Lonely Day and What Are You Doing New Year's Eve add a touch of wistfulness, reflection and melancholy to the proceedings. Don't get too glum though because there's a soaring finale of Ring The Christmas Bells mixed with Sleigh Ride. It's quite quite smashing :)

Like these? Try these on for size (Ghost of Christmas Musicals Past):

Daniel Boys ~ Ave Maria: I'll take any opportunity I can to blog about the lovely Mr Boys. if you haven't checked out his awesome new cover of As Long As You're Mine with Shona White, check out my review here. Daniel has dabbled with Christmas songs when he contributed to the Christmas in New York cd - his rendition of Ave Maria is utterly mesmerising, flawless and spellbinding. A gorgeous showcase for his voice as well as perfect soundtrack to those frosty dusky starlit nights. Heaven...
Beauty & The Beast (The Enchanted Christmas) ~ usually the direct to dvd spin offs from Disney films are a bit disappointing, but this one is a regular seasonal go to for me - and one I would die to see a stage version of. There are some charming moments in it as well as one of the most singalong Christmas tunes to come out of the House of Mouse in decades with As Long As There's Christmas. This has been presented ballad style by people like Peabo Bryson, Michael Ball & Roberta Flack as well as a pulsating pop version by Play. The reprise in the movie is also a lovely brief nugget.
The Forgotten Carols ~ ooo I'm going all Mormon for a minute. One of the memorable musicals from my upbringing was this Mormon staple about the people who are often forgotten in the Christmas story. What became of the innkeeper who turned them away? The shepherds who saw the angel? How did Joseph really feel? You don't have to be particularly religious or even Mormon to enjoy these traditional and memorable, well executed tunes...

Christmas 2011 ~ A Swinging Christmas (Michael Buble & so many others!)

2011-11-23T08:24:00.001-08:00

There's something very classy about an un-bowed bow tie hanging round the neck of a dapper young fella singing swinging Christmas tunes. Or a loosened tie while he pours a glass of Bucks Fizz before limbering up for his next festive soiree. Miraculously in a country that doesn't often send festive albums to the top spot (did the Wilson Phillips Christmas set even chart?!?!), Michael Buble is sitting pretty atop the UK album chart. Here's what you get with his album...

Michael Buble ~ Christmas:

This isn't Michael's first foray into seasonal music. He's had a Christmas EP out, duetted with Anne Murray and joined the Barenaked Ladies for one of my most favourite modern Christmas tunes (more on that later!) However, his first full length Christmas album - simply titled Christmas - is a heartwarming belter. Of course he is tackling seasonal faves in his own style, and that's nothing new (see below) but the arrangements are sparkling and his (and singing partners) vocal performance is enthusiastic and engaging that it's hard not to want to tux up and sing along. The standouts are where he teams up with other folk - the Jingle Bells duet with my beloved Puppini Sisters is a sparkling, harmonised delight (and not just for the delicious "merry Christmas Mr Buble" that opens the track); after Shania Twain teased her comeback earlier this year, it's lovely to have her featured here on an adorably shuffling White Christmas where her vocal simply bounces around off the melody and jazzy backing. Elsewhere, I certainly can't get enough of album opener It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas and his interpretation of All I Want For Christmas Is You gives it a more morose, wistful feeling. The one original track - Cold December Night - is to be commended for standing up against such holiday evergreens. It's a perky, evocative description of Christmas round at Michaels and his vocal has never been so engaging. Understated arrangements, enough jingle bell effects to power a sleigh and an album full to the brim with tunes you'll be singing along to straight away - what more could you want?! Caution! Gap and Starbucks will be pumping this through the speakers non-stop through New Years... :)

If you like this, try these (the ghosts of swinging christmas past!)...

Matt Dusk ~ Peace on Earth: I'll confess. I've always preferred Matt Dusk over Mr Buble. Just a matter of personal taste I guess (though I'm always insanely jealous of his hair and how good he always looks in a suit!). This is more of an EP than an album (and pretty hard to get hold of), but it's definitely worth getting hold of! It all kicks off with Christmas Is Finally Here, an original number that starts off as a slow, mellow jazz number before evolving into this huge orchestral, finger clicking production (with some really lovely piano and an elegant, understated vocal from Mr Dusk). Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas & Silent Night are very traditional "rat pack" renditions of beautiful songs that Matt excels at, while his merging of Peace on Earth with Little Drummer Boy is a stark, yet startlingly mesmerising duet that can be a little jarring at first, but then completely wins you over. Cool Yule and It's A Marshmallow Christmas pick up the pace (with the latter getting down with it's bad self thanks to sexy sax and funky bass). It's all wrapped up with a near perfect duet with Theresa Sokyrka on Baby, It's Cold Outside. Playful, flirty, insistent, it's a true gem of a rendition. Amazing...
Mans Zelmerlow ~ Christmas With Friends: Ridiculously overlooked outside Sweden, this was a departure from Mans normal bombastic pop style, but one that suited him well - and MAN, he looked good in a suit :D Highlights include his duet with Bjorn Skifs (I Pray on Christmas - a rollicking, horn infused, flowing tune that is so natural and effortless that it feels entirely made up on the spot); his original track (December - a warm, engaging, swinging big band tune. There's something magical about hearing a festive song sung in Swedish and the melody is pure joy. Try not to explode with joy over the key change and sing-repeat finale :D); Baby, Please Come Home (This is a classy addition to any Christmas dinner party soundtrack and gets you fingerclicking along. Brilliant orchestration of the music too. I'm loving Mans formal Christmas look too - you can just imagine him coming home, loosening his tie and smooching the face off you under the mistletoe. Now, that's magic); and of course his now classic duet of the Mariah fave (good for Mans for turning the ebulliant original into something quite refined and dignified as a ballad version. His voices soothes like eggnog as he serenades the lovely Agnes Carlsson on this smooth, slowed down but equally lovely version. Click the link and see stills of Mans in all his winter finery. My fave ~ 22secs when his shirt sleeves are pushed up but he is still wearing a scarf. His neck is chilly but his arms are hot. Still totally snoggable under the mistletoe though!) Ultimately, his big band readings of yuletide faves are brimming with elegance and a genuine warmth and love for the genre and songs he sings.

Puppini Sisters ~ Christmas with The Puppini Sisters; Hurrah! I have gorged on this album again with a vengence this year already as I am of to see them on Dec 7th at a Christmas themed concert they are doing :) On this album, they have stuck to their absolutely delightful Andrews Sisters for the new millenium mantra. This has led to an amazing album of jazz tinged, boogie woogie Christmas faves. Take their turn on the Elton John fave (Step Into Christmas) -it is a fizzy explosion of joi de vivre all wrapped up in their tightly knitted harmonies. So much fun yet put together so very cleverly, very carefully and very well. Check out their older christmas tunes too like Jingle Bells and Little Match Girl. Top drawer!
Barenaked Ladies with Michael Buble ~ Elf's Lament: And so it comes full circle as I return to Michael and his team up with BNL on their festive album from several years ago. I bloody well love Elf's Lament. You know what Gregory Maguire did with Wicked - where he totally spun the world of Oz on it's head? Well that is what the Ladies have done in this song - taken our deeply ingrained image of happy little elves beavering (titter) away for the good of the world and given it an "up the union" type slant. Maybe working conditions aren't so great. Maybe the pay isn't as wonderful as it should be. Maybe the job satisfaction is minimal. It's all addressed here, with some grand harmonies, a kicking chorus and an infinitely catchy hook. And despite it being a good old moan (albeit with a slight wink), it certainly is one of the perkiest and upbeat (musically) Christmas songs of recent years. Quite simply marvelous.

Christmas 2011: Festive singles from Matthew West, Joe McElderry and A1 ,

2011-11-22T03:11:00.001-08:00

There are a cornucopia of new festive singles invading the market place at the moment, to which I say ding dong verily, I must review them :) I'll try and limit it to 3 a day (to which I say, we three sings?!), as well as highlighting the Christmas albums that are eminently worthy of your attention. Onward with the merriment! (What utter nonsense, etc... :D)

Matthew West ~ Come On Christmas: Two things - first off, Matthew actually has a whole album of seasonal delights out entitled The Heart of Christmas. This includes a duet with Amy Grant, who in the 90s (along with Mariah Carey and uh, Garth Brooks) was my go-to Christmas artist. So hurrah for that. Secondly, this isn't actually the official single from that album. That would be the title track (view the heartwarming video here) which also accompanies a movie of the same name. However, this track - the song that opens the album is so jam packed with festive cheer, gleeful musical arrangements and seasonal good will that I can't not bring it to your attention. It basically encapsulates everything I love about the holiday period, why it should really last all year and why you can never start enjoying it too early. All this is accompanied by some joyous horns and a genuinely uplifting vocal from young Matthew. Add to this the most wonderful sax breakdown in the middle 8 since Debbie Gibson's Should've Been The One (sorry Lady Gaga Edge of Glory), and it's a song you'll start singing in July and won't stop humming til June... Immensicles!

Joe McElderry ~ Last Christmas: Who would've thought that l'il Geordie Joe would go onto re-capture the hearts of the nation after the sadly underwhelming response to his debut album? But hurrah, the likeable chappy is moving forward with his Classics themed albums and this new single (obviously a cover of Wham) is from his upcoming Christmas set. Joe doesn't deviate much from the original (save for a stately orchestral opening), but his sincere vocal and added festive sound effects give this a real hearty glow that makes it incredibly difficult to dislike. Oh and based on the video clip above, Joe is obviously a good hugger - and Christmas round his place looks like a real visual and gourmet treat. Gorgeous! (Click here for my post on other "Last Christmas" covers!)

A1 ~ Another Year Gone: Frankly everything about the A1 comeback has been an absolute treat. The album Waiting For Daylight featured some amazing tracks including brilliant single In Love (And I Hate It) & the epic The Life That Could Have Been. Their brand new track (sadly only available in Norway, but you can hear it on their website) is a reflective, melancholy tune built around a stark acoustic guitar that is juxtaposed with a more warming vocal and melody from the guys. It builds layer by layer, particularly with the addition of some tinkling piano and a soaring, but sad sounding chorus. Sometimes it's good to take a few moments to review the year gone by and make new affirmations for the year ahead and you might as well do it while listening to an accomplished piece of music... (Click here for my post on other end of year songs!)

Back tomorrow with more 'we 3 sings'...

Album Assessment: Christophe Willem ~ Prismophonic

2011-11-21T04:17:00.001-08:00

There have been quite a few good pop albums this year that have flown under the radar. Same Difference set the standard for the Steps come back album with The Rest is History. Eric Saade has yet to break outside of the Scandanavian block with the epic Saade Vol.1. Only a canny few outside of Spain know of the new boy band on the block Auryn and their sparkling debut album Endless Road. A welcome addition to albums that deserve as huge an audience of pop appreciators as possible is French pop star Christophe Willem, who already wowed me with his last album Cafeine (read review here). Here's the gen on his latest...

PRISMOPHONIC:

If you are looking for an album that is a glittering celebration of pop, dance, life and love, then you could not do any better than this rapturous collection of new tunes from the one and only Mr. Willem. Ably guided by Steve Anderson (Kylie, Elouise, Westlife), the album explodes with an innate love of pop that shines through in each collaborative track. And what a list of collaborators there are - Kylie, Richard Stannard, Karen Poole, Isabel Guzman, Richard X, Sarah de Courcy... Incredibly, there is still an admirable sense of cohesion about the project and Christophe's beguiling vocal style holds it all together, urging you to go back for more once the experience is over.

It all kicks off with the swirling Starlite, which is so bold and confident in it's delivery & statement of intent that it surely must be under consideration for single number 2. It shows that Christophe has no problem in being a male equivalent of Kylie in his intoxicating disco numbers, with this one having some glorious beats, dreamy whirling synths and an inviting, falsetto vocal from Christophe. As if that wasn't brilliant enough, it's beserk enough to include a sample of Ain't Nobody by Chaka Khan which is just the cherry on the iced bun for me... Next up is lead off single, Cool, which I reviewed here. I still love the down and dirty Prince-esque beats that create a nice juxtaposition with the more poppy "ooo ooo oooo" that serve as a background to the addictive chorus. The type of song that Marcus would be begging to sing if he won the X Factor. L'Amour Me Gagne has euro-smash written all over it. The beats are mesmerisingly hypnotic and Christophe's vocals weave together like musical alchemy with the instrumental that he becomes one with the track.

The heady aroma created by this immersion into Christophe's world of dance is given a temporary respite, a pause to reflect as he provides one of the most bewitching ballads of the year. Si Mes Larmes Tombent is crafted around some lulling piano that flows effortlessly. It's Christophe's voice that is the glue binding this tune together. It's absolutely bewitching to listen to and although I don't understand all the lyrics, there's a passion and emotion in the vocal delivery that's a little heartbreaking. It's slightly jarring to go from this tune to the "if One Republic were remixed" duet of Indelibile. It's big beats and some nifty sound effects that elevate the track from just average, but the chorus while not completely instantaneous does remain with you long after the song has finished. Perhaps if Jamais Du and Indelibile had been switched in the running order, the latter would be stronger. Jamais Du is another corker, a laid back, rave-esque ballad that is reminiscent of Untouchable by Girls Aloud with the genius addition of some hammond organ in the middle 8. The spell cast continues with Automatik (co-written by Isabel Guzman no less!) which doesn't so much shimmy into view, but explodes into existence. The sparse verses erupt in a cascading wall of beats, throbbing deliciously from your speakers, another flawless vocal and a middle 8 so blatently sexual that the album should come with it's own condom/cum-rag! This is followed by another magnificent pop moment in the Kylie co-write Pas Si Loin. It would fit neatly along side any of her recent output and I particularly love the pause, as if giddy and breathless from the thrill of the song at the end of chorus.

The album starts to draw to a close with Je Rejoins La Scene. With shades of Scissor Sisters, Britney and Darren Hayes, the song crescendos to an inveigling beat until you seem to be soaring along with it. It's a compliment that the more I listen, the more it reminds me of perhaps a modern interpretation of Running Up That Hill by Kate Bush. Le Temps Qu'il Reste is another Untouchable moment - a song that exists perfectly within the context of the album, but once flying free takes on a life of it's own. Swoony "aah-oohs" mixed with a string drenched beat become the unexpected after 8 on the pillow of pop. It all draws far too soon to a close with the epic finale of Falling. It's a gorgeous, understated ballad that with a wider audience would be a staple for x factor auditions next year, yet no performance will ever reach the inherent beauty of this version. Simply stunning.

All in all, an essential piece of pop whether French is your language or not. Christophe Willem is a talented young fella, surrounded by people who understand him, understand music and understand how to create a complex world known as Prismophonic.

(Do also check out Dontstopthepop review!)

Ennemis in L.O.V.E continues the Prismophonic journey. I love a bit of spelling in pop (check out Eric Saade sticking to three letter words like P.O.P and H.O.T!) and this is the equivalent of musical foreplay. It teases, entices and totally gets you in the mood. This is achieved through the purring way the spelling of love is delivered, the percussive beats that are relentless but not intrusive and clever use of synth chords. it's reminiscent of when club music in the 90s was softer, more melodic, less demanding than it is now.

New & Noteworthy ~ introducing The Approval...

2011-11-20T05:08:00.001-08:00

I am warning you now that this blog is going to get entirely weighed down with X Factor and Christmas in the run up to 25th December, which leaves precious little time to feature new acts. Ergo, I have to be quite picky with them. Usually there are 3 elements that catch my eye - the first (and i'll admit it's shallow) is if the act is quite good looking and foxy, then i'm bound to give them a whirl (& also overlook any imperfections that may need to be ironed out. Secondly, there should be some catchy tunes, coupled with the potential to grow into something quite amazing. And finally, a passion for pop from the artist always goes a long way. A lot of the new, upcoming acts have elements of some of these categories - very few have all of them. Let me introduce you to The Approval, who I am quite excited about as they (for me) seem to easily tick all 3 boxes...

THE APPROVAL ~ TIME WILL TELL EP:

Let's face it, Roland (the current Mr England no less) and Simon of The Approval haven't really been tarred with the ugly brush have they? In fact, I feel better looking just by listening to their music so that's a massive bonus right there :) They are only young whippersnappers (19 and 22 respectively) yet have their sights set on harnessing their musical craft and creating a career for themselves that is not based on shouty performances on tv talent shows. Rather it's about letting the music speak for itself and their debut EP, Time Will Tell, is a charmer from start to finish. It mixes the styles of bands like The Kooks & The Feeling with pop majesty of artists as diverse as Katy Perry, Gary Barlow, Deacon Blue and Ben Folds. She's Got Me is a sweet, driving power pop tour de force built around a persistent guitar riff, sweeping layered strings and a sincere vocal that really soars during the chorus. On it's own, it stands up as lovely romantic pop tune but then there is this moment of musical genius at 2m28s when a stripped back middle 8 launches into a jaunty, perky hand clap section lead by some glorious jubilant piano chords. It's a genuine thrilling moment and the one that pinpointed for me that The Approval are something special to watch out for... Up To No Good begins with verses that have a tip of the hat to Ed Sheeran about them, married with this completely intoxicating chorus that adds a glorious synth riff for an added frisson of excitement. Add some luxurious strings and a middle 8 that crescendos in the same way as "i've got soul but i'm not a soldier" in All These Things I've Done (The Killers) and it's a complexly created, yet easy to listen to pop masterclass in how to create genuinely engaging music.

Hide & Seek is a more mid-tempo ode to the perils of the games people play in relationships. Again, it has an effortlessly ingratiating backing track that is mixed with harmonies that weave together as easily as the instruments. Great falsetto in the choruses and it's all delivered with an aura, a tinge of sadness - and this isn't always easy to do; to add real emotion and pathos to a song. Again, some heavenly piano work going on in this song and I'm always a sucker for that. Talking of which, See It Through begins with a flowing, almost playful piano riff that is then offset (but totally complemented) by percussive beat and a vocal imparting words of wisdom (including clever lyrics "dreams can come true/or the movies lied to you"). What stands out about all the tracks is that there is this organic live feel about them that makes it so easy to picture them being performed live.

Ultimately, this is an accomplished introduction to an act that clearly has a love for pop music - and ability to turn that passion into genuinely well crafted tunes that deserve a much wider audience. I'm smitten...

If you like this, try this...

Summer Fiction ~ Christmas Eve For Two: What a find this is. Not only is it a fine introduction to the lovely deep vocal style of Mr Summer Fiction (not his real name, I assume :P) but it's a totally delightful festive song that stands out from the normal perky sleigh bells. The music is in fact a bit of a juxtaposition to the lyrical flow of the song; almost like a reverse Abba. The music is maudlin, fairly sparse (yet totally mesmerising) as Summer Fiction sings about his hopes for a new love, his wish for a perfect Christmas Eve - never has serenading sound so plaintive and earnest. The "ba da da dom" backing vocals are almost heartbreaking; the sparse middle 8 and gentle jingling bells help you to cling to the optimism that perhaps this is one deserved festive wish that will actually happen. A genuinely stunning and lovely piece of work.

The X Factor 2011 ~ Live Shows: Week 7 (Movie Night)

2011-11-19T08:08:00.001-08:00

The M&S Pre-Live Show Preview :)

It's not just Christmas. It's M&S Christmas. And it's not just X Factor at Christmas. It's M&S X Factor at Christmas. This year the contestants are all gussied up in their finest Marks and Spencers clobber, promoting the best place to buy your Christmas party nibbles (their Bucks Fizz is to die for). Not only that but you also get a little listen to the charity single When You Wish Upon A Star, not Wishing On A Star which I accidentally/mistakenly thought it was. This is much better (though frankly I still think the Hotel Rivals Second Best To None track would be a corker). Anyway, there are many things that I quite like about this commercial break. First off, the ruthlessness of it all - even though it's Christmas, they update it and cut out the ditched contestants! Amazing! No Kitty! No Frankie! ReplacementAct is in there though. It's all brutally Dickensian, isn't it?! Secondly, Little Mix actually come across as a viable Girl Group option in this advert. They look quite good and sound quite good. Thirdly, while there is a bit too much Craig and ReplacementAct for my liking, Marcus and Misha really do shine. I love that Marcus gets about 1 second to rock out to the guitar instrumental, and Misha looks stunning bringing the proceedings to a close. Plus everyone in the ad who is not in the X Factor seems to be having a great time (probably because they are paid to be but hey, who cares? I'm a sucker for things like this!) Hurrah it's Christmas and Marks & Spencers have done the Love, Actually of festive adverts. Mazel Tov! Now on with tonights show...

MOVIE WEEK!

Gah! I am never in for the x-factor this season so I am not twitter compatible and this makes my opinions irrelevant 12 hours later! Yet still I persist possibly out of a sense of commitment or a sense of narcissism, I haven't worked out which yet :D Tonight, I was at something called Eden Bar in Birmingham (very good) and Kendro of comedy X Factor Audition Fame were actually there! I brushed past one when they were waiting to go onstage. This is better than when Jon Pertwee told me to shut up (I was 9 at the time). They sang about Doing The Kendro and a verse & chorus of Born This Way. It was uniformly dreadful. Absolutely awful. Non-Blonde-Kendro got in a right strop when the few people in the crowd didn't scream and cheer. He shoved the mic back at the DJ (ooo, phallic, etc) and went "Thanks Birmingham, I drove all this way for you" before stomping off. It was better than Kitty singing Born This Way, Dermot's look of horror when she did so and Harry Hill saying on TV Burp "yes, and that's why you were voted off the show" put together. Amazing.

Anyway, it's Movie Night. Probably because they went to the Twig-Lit premiere. What this really means is "Pick Any Song & Then Wikipedia It To See If It Was In A Movie" Night. I do like the "starring the judges/acts" bit at the beginning though, even though poor Louis is left out. Like Kitty and Frankie in the M&S adverts!

Dermot enters. (me). (STOP!) With a dancey strut and some bond girls. His moves say "moves like jagger" but his eyes say "how has my career come to this"?! Luckily KellyNotClarkson is wearing something far more ridiculous than his dancing so attention is duly shifted. Phew, Dermot. PHEW!

CRAIG ~ He is singing a Bond classic. It better be Sheena Easton's For Your Eyes Only or I will be in a right mood. Apparently his life is quite showbizzy now and is going to get even more showbizzy as Tulullah announces that all remaining acts will play to more people than she ever has on the X Factor Live Tour. GASP! I have actually never been. Usually because I'm plum worn out from blogging it for 4 months, so I need 8 months to recover. God knows how I'll cope with blogging the Voice early next year! Anyway, Craig is doing Licence To Kill. I always thought a cymbal sound was badly placed in the actual version of this so it sounded like Licence To Kilt. But that is neither here nor there is it? It's a perfectly competent version which isn't exactly a ringing endorsement. Why is he trying to do the growly noises? He comes across as less sexy, more Rowlf from the Muppets. He does seem alarmingly happy about his licence to kill, like Joe McElderry gurning his way through Somebody To Love 2 years ago. I'd sleep with one eye open if I were Marcus... Gary gets in a mood about people critiquing his song choice, because he has never done that in the past. Good gravy.
JANET ~ I have now decided that Janet is in fact an evil genius like the kitty (not Kitty) in Cats & Dogs. She is already hinting that she will be the next Matt "Christmas" Cardle by suggesting the music on the x-factor isn't really her thing. Though I ponder her being an actual genius when she tries to be all humble and says "I can't believe people at the premiere were calling my name. How did they know my name?!" Come off it Janet, no one is that thick/naive. Words. Fail. Me. Oh no they don't because I'm carrying on. She is doing Kiss Me which is more famous from Dawson's Creek and then used in a movie. A) Her dress is hideous. B) Her dress is still hideous. C) The song should be about the joy of anticipation, the tingle and frisson of excitement of new love. Janet sings it as if she is asking her roommate/ordering a minion to go and get a pint of milk. Gary compliments the song choice. AMAZING!

RETURNING-ACT: God, she sounds like Bea Arthur when she talks. I can't watch the VT as her & KellyNotClarkson annoy me far too much. So let's get on with the song. She does a song called Think, when if she wants to be Christina Aguilera (she does) she should have done Express from Burlesque. She's very shouty in parts, which always gets mistaken as powerful singing on this show. However, i 'think' (see what I did there, etc) that Think was quite good. She certainly Aguilera'd the stage. KellyNotClarkson looks like she could stab Louis for asking why she sent Returning-Act home. Baby Mama. Her arm pit bristles were shivering with indignant rage. (Note - Returning-Act has not perfected her phone number face... She's gone all Eoighan Quigg!)
MISHA ~ love the Meesh. They played her Sweet Dreams after Kendro were on in Eden last night and people went crazy for it. The VT is all very sad and I do feel a bit sorry for her. KellyNotClarkson does some major empathising/manages to make it all about her. With the VT in mind, her choice of I Have Nothing seems a bit manipulative on the part of the producers/Kelly. Still it's a powerful, distinct performance that a) makes me wish she'd done Car Wash instead and b) makes me think her album should be ballad lite with a ballad bonus track at the end. Oh and c) I'm doing too many of these alphabetised lists, but I do agree with Gary that I want sassy Misha back...

preFIX ~ I have never heard of Set It Off, but then I'm getting old. I google it (not "fondle" like my phone changes it to when i text my friend about it) and am not impressed with the result. However, The "Desperate for a Number One" Saturdays & Taylor "guns/Abs/glutes" Lautner endorse them so it's bound to be good. Oh it's actually an En Vogue song that was purloined later for the movie. I give in - it actually IS quite good. I really can't believe I'm coming around to preFIX. The dance moves at the end were embarrassingly shoddy though...
MARCUS ~ Is he really singing Ghostbusters? Surely no one can out Jedward Jedward's version??! Marcus meets a famous Scouse singer. Sadly it's not SOnia but last year's runner up, Rebecca Ferguson. Oh. (Oh hush me, I do actually like her new single). Resplendent in Pink (no capital there, otherwise it looks like he is resplendent in the popstar Pink and that's a whole different show) he does a rousing, gleeful version of Higher and a jolly good time is had by me. And the audience I hope. VIVA MARCUS COLLINS AND HIS CHRIST LIKE POSE FINALE! Religious! (One note - Gary needs to stop doing his "wave the fart away" arms to encourage audience chanting.). IMMENSE.

THE RESULTS SHOW:

Last night, 6 acts sang their hearts out. According to bastion of accurate nonsensationalist journalism The Star, if Returning-Act sings one more song, she will go blind! So the group sing off should be interesting then :S

The judges come on. Apparently tie pins are making a come back. I am so not de-rigour.

GROUP NO ~ Craig and Misha are dressed horribly and look like a really awkward first date. Like a young Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie. You can see Craig looking at Misha thinking, I wish you were Danyl/a biscuit. Marcus excels of course and hurrah! Returning-Act can still see. Thank the Lord. Panic over The Star! See, I can be nice. Janet Devil-in looks completely miserable to be there as always. GOOD GOD! Rhydian has really let himself go hasn't he? Oh wait, no it's master guitar licker and creator of Robin Hood:Prince of Thieves movie ballad (which wasn't performed) extraordinaire, Bryan Adams. Where the fuck is Mel C?! Anyway, the song is all very shouty. Bryan's advice of learn your craft and write your own songs is a bit of a juxtaposition as to what this show is all about isn't it??
REBECCA ~ I think (from memory) I found Rebecca vocally competent last year but mind numbingly dull. Like Sophie Habibis. I do like the dance mix of her single, but we won't be lucky enough to get that tonight. The judges stand up for her performance when they clap, proving that an x-factor ovulation is compulsory for guest acts, not based on performance merit. Because despite her impressive pipes and ability to out-Adele Adele, Rebecca was entirely perfunctory.
RIHANNA ~ I'm going to confess something shocking. I don't get/really like Rihanna. *GASP* So i go and empty the dishwasher while she is on. My phone goes wild, but it is mainly texts about that goon that almost mooned the camera while Dermot was doing that "natural" chat with the contestants schtick that is always death.
RESULTS ~ YAY! Misha B is through, continuing the pattern of "bottom 2 acts from previous week going through first". preFIX are through. I have decided that last night they really weren't that great, they only got an En Vogue song because KellyNotClarkson had said the week before that they should be more like En Vogue and when I watched it back, the whole performance was based around such obviously pre-recorded vocals that it was taking the piss a bit. Still such audacity got One Direction to the final last year, so hey who knows! Marcus is through next (and he looks more and more like a hot, prequel version of Cat from Red Dwarf each week) and so is... WHA?!?! JANET DEVIL-IN. She is harder to get rid of than crabs. But I don't mind Returning-Act being in the bottom 2 though feel sad for Craig.
THE SING OFF ~ Returning Act looks proper miserable while Gary looks like someone has punched him with a sign reading "BAD SONG CHOICE". Craig is first up with a nuanced, quite nice performance of Will You Love Me Tomorrow. His top is distractingly blousey though and he looks sadder than a lost puppy who has also lost a smaller, cuter puppy. His key change is nowhere near as good as Shayne Ward's Over The Rainbow key change. Dermot is uninterested in Craig's tears as these are only useful when there is air-time to fill. But Returning-Act must sing so he is unceremoniously ushered off stage. R-A sings Gaga's You & I. Which sounds like Gaga doing You & I. Except she tackles it with all the emotion and facial expression of a dime store mannequin, shouting into the breeze. This is what passes for talent these days on the x-factor I suppose :S Cue twitter hating Gary for calling Returning-Act shouty! Louis totally shafts Craig who he has supported for weeks until now and deadlock means Craig is on the 10.45 back to Liverpool...

WHAT WILL NEXT WEEK BRING?!?!?!

Weekend Supplement ~ 18th November 2011: My new musical obsessions...

2011-11-18T00:30:00.000-08:00

Before the blog gets completely weighed down with festive posts (you would think 3 would be enough this week, but actually I have plenty more. They are coming out the wazoo whatever that means!!), I thought I had better get you up to date on some of my fave new acts that I am becoming increasingly musically obsessed with. Each one represents a musical delight, so do be sure to check them out and let me know what you think. Right, enough chatter, onwards and tally forth with the tunes!

Eli Lieb ~ Place of Paradise: I know several things about Mr Lieb. He has amazing hair. He has done the requisite amount of youtube covers (inc Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Adele, Britney, etc) but has shown his supreme taste by including Hurts. He looks proper dapper in a shirt and tie. And perhaps most importantly, his Place of Paradise single is a corking piece of music that not only showcases a fine, confident vocal from the fella, but is an engaging tune that becomes more rewarding with each listen. It's a powerful, moving rock-tinged ballad that builds slowly; wisely focusing on that mesmerising voice while complementing with the crescendo-ing backing instrumental. It all works incredibly well and will no doubt make you want to dive into his debut album (here) for more songs filled with passion and emotion. Quite stunning...
Baker ~ Echo: The artist formerly known as Christopher Baker has been around for a while now, so it's with some shame that I confess I have only just picked up on him. No matter - like all the cool kids, I'm late to the party but making an entrance with a splash because his spritely single Echo is a pulsing pop club dance treat that demands to be heard & respected. Set amidst throbbing beats and fuzzy electro synths, Baker's vocal propel the track forward leading to that catchy hook of a chorus. Interestingly, the track is layered in it's production with a smorgasboard of beats and beeps that remind me of the heady golden days of Pet Shop Boys and Erasure. Loving the falsetto in the chorus too. One to play over and over again while you grab the one you love. And shimmy...

The Young Professionals ~ D.I.S.C.O: Another act I'm ridiculously behind on, but their debut single (above) and subsequent album are absolute corkers. A project from Israeli popstar Ivri Lider, the music is an instantly intoxicating, dark, throbbing journey through late night clubbing electronica, but always with a brutal honesty, heart and dedication to the craft. Perhaps the best intro to the band IS their samplover/covrample (sample and a cover!) of famous "we can spell too" dance smash D.I.S.C.O. The verses are hypnotic, the chorus familiar and it weaves a melodic spell over you that tips the hat to Bodies Without Organs, Kylie and even Depeche Mode. And do watch the video above for some deadpan, visually stunning work with the best dance routine this side of the Steps reunion. Thanks to Larry Flick for turning me on to them :)

Top 21 songs of the week:

21 ~ Kelly Clarkson, Mr Know It All
20 ~ Ro Danishei ft Simon Curtis, Wicked Baby
19 ~ Kevin Borg, Unstoppable
18 ~ Darren Hayes, Bloodstained Heart
17 ~ Steps, Dancing Queen
16 ~ The Feeling, Dance For The Lights
15 ~ Marit Larsen, Coming Home
14 ~ Nicola Roberts, Yo Yo
13 ~ Jason Mraz, World As I See It
12 ~ Erasure, Be With You
11 ~ William Young, Come On
10 ~ Gravitonas, Lucky Star
09 ~ Shona White & Daniel Boys, As Long As You're Mine
08 ~ Elouise, Dear Santa (NE)/(VID)
07 ~ Auryn, Last Night on Earth
06 ~ One Direction, Gotta Be You
05 ~ Boy Banned, Stars Are Saying Yes (NE)
04 ~ JLS, Take A Chance on Me
03 ~ Olly Murs, Dance With Me Tonight
02 ~ Same Difference, Music
01 ~ Eric Saade ft Dev, Hotter Than Fire (3 weeks)

Back tomorrow with an overview of the M&S X Factor advert, as well as a full overview of Saturday's show. Simmer down with your excitment there folks...

Christmas 2011: Mariah Christmas all over again...

2011-11-17T02:47:00.001-08:00

Imagine a world where All I Want For Christmas Is You. JUST IMAGINE? I lived in that world between 1974 and 1994, and although I didn't know any better, the world seemed a gloomier place each December somehow. So thank god (I found you) for Mariah Carey and her obsession with the festive period. She produced obviously what is now regarded as a modern day Christmas classic in that aforementioned track, but additionally wooed the world with 2 albums packed to the brim with snowy goodness. Last year it was all hand claps (Hey Santa) and non-hip hop remixes of AIWFCIY (thank god). This year, she has some not exactly new, but new-ish festive treats that could serve as a Merry Christmas II You Special Edition on your iPod...

MARIAH GOES DUETTY:

When Do The Bells Ring For Me? (w/ Tony Bennett): Yes, the Amy Winehouse and GaGa duets may have gotten all the attention from Tony's Duets II cd, and no this isn't particularly a festive tune, but ultimately it is very good and it sort of has that not-Christmas-but-Christmas single about it. It's a beautifully orchestrated, restrained performance that seems to sparkle with each nuanced delivery. Think Natalie Cole doing Unforgettable. The muted horns and gentle bell chimes give it an elegant festive feel that will no doubt last all year round (particularly with that gloriously stirring and dramatic finale)...
When Christmas Comes (w/ John Legend): This gently rhythmic solo cut from Mariah's second festive opus now becomes a gently rhythmic duet with velvet voiced crooner John Legend. It doesn't deviate much from the original version (ie, it's a lovey dovey romantic and dewey eyed tune full of hope, cuddles and optimism for the Christmas season), but it does give added layers to the chorus when John and Mariah's vocals weave around each other like tinsel draped beautifully round a full, green tree. It's all very pop on a scarf, get some peppermint hot chocolate and snuggle up to the one you love, but who doesn't crave that at Christmas? Swoon...(Do check out her original version performed live last year here)
All I Want For Christmas Is You (Super Festive w/ Justin Bieber): The extra festive version from last year that gave perhaps the best version of the song since, well, the original is now a super festive duet with none other than not-babydaddy Justin Bieber! Amaze! There's a bit of an ad-lib off between the two at the beginning, but it's soon sleigh bells away with the actual song. It's really quite difficult to screw this song up - it exudes joy almost whoever is singing it, and Justin doesn't do a bad job of keeping up with mumsy Mariah. As expected, it's a jolly good time :) And now I want to go and watch Love, Actually...

MERRY CHRISTMAS II YOU EXTRA FESTIVE EDITION PROPOSED TRACK LISTING:

01 - Santa Claus is Coming to Town (intro)
02 - All I Want For Christmas Is You (Super Festive duet with Justin Bieber)
03 - Hey Santa!
04 - Little Town of Bethlehem/Little Drummer Boy
05 - Christmas Time is in The Air Again
06 - The First Noel/Born Is The King (interlude)
07 - When Christmas Comes (duet with John Legend)
08 - When Do The Bells Ring For Me (duet with Tony Bennett)
09 - Here Comes Santa Claus
10 - Charlie Brown Christmas
11 - Oh Come All Ye Faithful/Hallelujah Chorus
12 - O Holy Night
13 - One Child
14 - Auld Lang Syne
15 - All I Want For Christmas Is You (Extra Festive version)
16 - Hey Santa (Low Sunday Edit)
17 - Auld Lang Syne (Remix)

Boy Band Update! Auryn and a cast of thousands...

2011-11-16T04:20:00.001-08:00

There was a time when I would struggle to do a comprehensive boy band update because it was really only Westlife and maybe some classical men-band acts like Blake and Il Divo. Now the marketplace is heaving with buff fellas harmonising with other buff fellas and doing homo-erotic dance routines. And I for one ain't complaining. Here is a review of my current fave boy band, along with a run down of what everyone else of note is up too...

Auryn ~ Endless Road 7058:

5 piece Spanish boy band Auryn are perhaps one of the most charming propositions for a boy band I've come across in a while. I'm not sure whether it's the Spanish accents and mediterranean good looks that does it, or whether it is the contemporary yet classic musical sound they have opted for. Or perhaps it is a mixture of all these things and more. Regardless, their debut album stands out in a crowded schedule of boy pop album releases this winter and is packed with potential singles, dreamy ballads and one interpretive cover version. It all kicks off with the driving force of Elevate - a song saturated in stirring strings, a driving percussive beat and an aura of classic Take That about it (it's a vocal Mark Owen would be jealous of). A thrilling chorus gives you an idea of the quality of song that Auryn have opted for and it remains with you long after the album has finished. Not one to rest on their laurels, the next track Favourite Guy, is a completely different - a perky finger clicking ditty with a nod of the head to acts like The Overtones, yet keeping a distinct aura of Auryn about it. It details the loss of love and is possibly the most catchy song on the album - definite contender for single number 3? I've already written copious amounts about singles 1 (Breathe Into The Light) and 2 (Last Night on Earth) - so needless to say, they are still standouts and excellent pieces of pop. Their more down tempo tracks, such as chugging ballad Still (which features some truly glorious harmonies and a soaring, inspirational chorus) and dreamy Spanish language tracks Cartas Entralazardas (with some heavenly piano playing) & Volver show a more tender side to the fellas. I Don't Think So is a rollicking power pop anthem that is enhanced by fuzzy guitar riffs and a enticing vocal performance in the choruses; this is echoed again on a cover of Adele's Rolling In The Deep which acts as a perfect showcase for their seamless harmonic style while adding a more aggressive touch with the guitar in the middle 8. Overall, an impressive debut from 5 lads who surely have a career waiting for them far beyond the shores of Spain...
Potential singles: Breathe Into The Light, Last Night on Earth; Your Favourite Guy; I Don't Think So; Still

Catching up with everyone else...

Lawson ~ Standing In The Dark (acoustic): I do enjoy an upcoming boy band. Lawson, in prep for their 2012 tour, have uploaded a dreamy acoustic version of their swoon-worthy song, Dancing In The Dark. It not only showcases their ability to produce some lovely, naturally flowing guitar melodies that truly give the song a propulsive narrative, but is also an opportunity for their emotive, pure vocals to cast a spell with their musical alchemy. I shall certainly be checking out their UK Tour in Jan... (Check out my review of their Marry The Night cover here. What, no headless acrouements?!)
JLS ~ Jukebox: It may be cookie cutter pop of the most common denominator variety, but I become increasingly smitten with the X-Factor's most successful act's latest single, Take A Chance On Me, with each consecutive listen. Their third (!) album is pretty much what you'd expect - rave o'clock anthems, some dreamy ballad, some self penned stuff that's not at all bad and quite personal - and my personal new favourite, a non-festive take on Do You Hear What I Hear, entitled Do You Feel What I Feel. It's Rodgers & Hammerstein Club Is Alive madness to a new level of bonkers! Please be single number 3...
The Wanted ~ Battleground: Everything seems to be such a rush for The Wanted that it seems there is no time to pause and enjoy exactly what is happening. barely 2 weeks after Lightning made number 2, they were already touting the video for morose ballad, single number 3, Warzone. And whipping out a special edition of Battlezone, minutes after the standard version was released! Grife! Anyway, the album is pleasant enough - if you like the mix of singles (either trancey rave pop or Ryan Tedder-esque ballads), you'll be pleased by what you find here...
Big Time Rush ~ Elevate: I have a huge soft spot for Big Time Rush. Not only do they manage to be hugely entertaining on their daft as anything epononymously titled tv show, but they continue to grow as boy band artists. If new single Music Sounds Better With You is anything to go by, their new album (out next week) is sure to be a doozy. Plus they look proper handsome and dapper on the cover. As if this wasn't enough, a Beatles-esque movie is due early next year with some contemporary yet vintage covers of the fab four tracks! YAY!
Take That ~ 8 Letters: probably released to promote their Progress Live Tour DVD, granddaddy boy band Take That mine their progress/progressed album one more time for perhaps the most traditional single they have chosen from it far. Still a fave of mine, it's a gorgeous ballad that fits in with their most recent work as well as their more classic material. Sigh...

What I Missed Whilst In Spain (Kyle Brylin, Christopher, Derek Darker, Nick Hagelin)

2011-11-15T05:44:00.001-08:00

Here I go, here I go, here I go again - girls, what's my weakness? (Shouts) MEN! Ok, then... and if you get that pop culture reference, you get a prize. Well done you. Anyway, while I was sunning myself and getting my feet nibbled in sunny Spain last week (see here), lots of my favourite fellas were busy being musical and creative. So in a tribute to men in general, here is what some of the singing dudes have been up to...

THE EP:

Kyle Brylin ~ The System: Christ on a crosstrainer! I seemingly only have to blink and I've missed amazing new music from young Kyle Brylin. He really is a machine with his output of quality electro-pop songs (occasionally mixed with amazing pop frippery such as FizzyPOP of course...) This week he's not only donned one of my favourite fashion accessories (a bow tie; bow ties are cool) making him look hotter than ever, but he's unleashed his beast (ooer) of an EP, The System, onto gagging for it pop afficianados. The title track is a glorious, throbbing slice of dance bliss with a saucy yet seductive synth riff running through it. His voice flows over the mayhem, oddly reminiscent of Tommy Page before the track pulses to an orgasmic climax. Elsewhere That Bad sees a sparse percussive handclap and casio-inspired groove create a simplistic yet engaging 3 minute romp that comes with an entirely gratuitous but entirely amusing & pleasing video (above). In it, Kyle shows off how amaze he looks in a bow tie, some tongue in cheek vainery as well as strutting his stuff. I love a bloke who doesn't take himself too seriously... Go Hard or Go Chrome continues the dark, pounding nightclub theme of the EP with more intoxicating beats & a hypnotic vocal from the fella himself. Brand New Love is a spiralling, optimistic plea for perseverence set amidst an Ibiza-esque club track and some lovely keyboard enhancements that just make you want to let go of your inhibitions and shake your moneymaker til you can shake no more. It's all finished off with Stereo, which brings your club hopping adventures to a close; seemingly about the allure of music, the pop world and all the good and bad that go with it. All tracks equal a sweaty good time, but do pay attention to the lyrics and dig a little deeper. It's confessions on the man-floor...

THE SINGLES:

Christopher ~ Against All Odds: Brilliant hair? Check! Amazing cheekbones? Check. Dreamy but powerful voice that would get him to the final 3 in x factor? Check! Hurrah! It's new popstar Christopher. He's from Denmark and his debut single is a mid-tempo ballad that is very good indeed. Think a somewhat updated That's My Goal - the type of winner's song that the aforementioned X Factor used to put out before they got obsessed with cover versions. It's infinitely catchy with a chorus that just won't quit, a swirling beat that enchants and a oh so delightful ay-oh vocal hook that somehow makes the song a million percent better... If that wasn't enough, do check out young Christopher's version of Robyn's Call Your Girlfriend and check his webpage too. Aces.
Kyle Brylin ~ Revenge: Well flap me sideways and bugger me gently! At the same time as whipping out his EP, Kyle also has a separate single out called Revenge. And that's very in at the moment isn't it? It's doing well as a tv series for ABC (it's a sudsy good time) and now it's a rollicking good pop tune for Mr Brylin. I love a tune full of bitter recriminations and this is brimming with them (love "you're a gutter whore chasing fortune and fame". Ouch!) I can picture a suitably dark and malevolent video where Kyle chases a hooded fella throughout the song (showing his crimes of course in flashback), knocks him out and as he pulls the hood off the poor tied/gagged fella in the final scene, it turns out it's Kyle! He's seeking revenge on himself! Psychological!

THE COVERS:

Derek Darker ~ Lego House/Waiting For A Chance To Come: I must say I do appreciate this current trend of upcoming singers hawking their wares via cover versions on the internet. It's like the x-factor being played out right on youtube. Derek Darker (along with Nick Hagelin below) is one of my current faves for doing this. fresh from his triumphant cover of Ur Love (the only version of the Cher Lloyd song I can stand), Derek now has two fine acoustic versions of current pop classics for your perusal. Not only does his voice make me melt ever such a little on Lego House, but he's also all poppified (well done young sir) in the video. On Waiting For A Chance there's a nice cute moment at the start where he's checking out his hair in the mirror, before allowing the (quite hot) guitarist to commence about the business of music. Both tracks shine with a charm and Derek's genuine love for the songs shine through in his performance. More please, more!
Nick Hagelin ~ Stereo Hearts: The thing I like about Nick Hagelin cover videos is that there seems to be so much thought and effort gone into them. Each one takes a new setting, new characters and an interpretation of a modern classic & gives a visual spectacle to go with the aural treat. This time it's the Adam Levine/Gym Class Heroes track. In a playground. With shapes. And Nick's posse throwing shapes (ie A DANCE ROUTINE!!). And a random person walking past with child. All this on it's own would be amazing, but the acoustic version really is a treat. Nick Hagelin is the real deal. it's about time the world sat up and took notice...

Christmas 2011: Elouise ~ Santa's Little Belter EP

2011-11-14T04:19:00.001-08:00

Having seen Arthur Christmas yesterday (it's brilliant), reviewed the festive-but-not-festive Boy Banned single here and had a delicious Peppermint Mocha from the bucks, I'm fully on board for the new EP from Elouise and her capable team. And - SCREAM - it's a festive EP!! It's like it was made for me! Here's what you get for less than a fiver (bargainings!)...

Elouise ~ Santa's Little Belter:

Following up her epic Stardust & Stardust Melodies EPs, Elouise has now gone all festive with Santa's Little Belter (also the title of her upcoming Christmas shows in London). What's brilliant about the EP is that you can already imagine a narrative from the 3 songs that would no doubt fit extremely well in her live shows; alternatively there are 3 wonderfully produced and performed Christmas tunes that stand up on their own merit. I'll attempt to do each song justice, track by track...

Dear Santa (Bring Me A Man) ~ It's every single girl (and gay guy)'s dream to get all snuggly and warm with a foxy fella under the mistletoe each year isn't it? I was only aware of this song because of a recent cover by Australian girl group Young Divas putting a dancified version on their last studio album. This rendition takes the song to a whole new level. It's like The Weather Girls meets Donna Summer's Last Dance remixed by Chic. And given a shake down by Santa's elves themselves! It has a really organic, natural sounding disco vibe that is created through using real instruments (IMAGINE) rather than studio trickery of sound effects, pre-programmed synth loops and a bass machine. It's reminiscent in a way of the entire Voulez Vous album by Abba and twice as camp :) It does begin very tribute to Last Dance - an almost reverent, hushed, piano fuelled ballad, with sumptuous harmonies and pleading lyrics. This all spirals into a very tribute to It's Raining Men with a deliciously camp "hi (hi!) We're Santa's Little Belters..." spoken intro to an increase in tempo and glitter dust flying through the air like snow on Christmas morning. Now is as good a time as any to say that the Belterettes really give added joy to the tune and enhance Elouise all the way through the song, a real tour de force. It's like having a sixties girl group as backing vocalists!

As mentioned, the feel of a live band aids the track enormously - all muted horns, funky piano, throbbing bass. Over all of this, Elouise manages to purr her wish list with sex appeal and conviction, while ably conveying her inner yearning for a fella without it seeming desperate. Take 2m36s on the full version - she belts out her needs in a way that would have the x-factor live studio audience making themselves wet with adulation for the power of the performance. The choruses are so layered that it's a reward each time you listen with new instrument quirks and backing vocalist magic revealing itself each time. There's an absolutely gorgeous moment from 3m43 onwards where a brass instrument plays Deck The Halls over the thrusting dance track and the Belterettes add some fa-la-la-las to the proceedings. This then begins to cast a festive spell, as if conjuring up a man with Elouise bringing her fella to life with the magic words of "Let it Snow" (think about it, it's quite rude in a way :D) and the Belterettes weaving their wintry alchemy with those bewitching chants of fa-la-la-la/fa-la-la-la on repeat. It's almost a seasonal, spiritual successor to her Could It Be Magic interpretation from earlier in the year. As if all of this wasn't enough, Elouise gives a truly stunning vocal performance, loaded with nuance, passion, a cheeky wink and a thorough understanding of the lyrical flow of the tune. Stand by to be stunned, because this is knockout.

Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) ~ More organic, live sounding magic happens on track two and it's as if Elouise has dragged Darlene Love and the E-Street Band down to the studio :) It's more "traditionally" festive than Dear Santa, with a lovely shuffling sleigh bells and a rousing horn section giving the tune a rather euphoric feel. However, like all the best Abba tracks (for example) there is a sadness hidden among the joy as Elouise details a Christmas without her man. It has the horniest, most playful sax breakdown of the year in the middle 8 (take that Edge of Glory!), giving the tune a timeless, classic feel that makes you instantly fall in love with the track. A crescendo of "please, please, please" by Elouise (and the Belterettes! Elouise-ites) brings the track to a screaming musical orgasmic conclusion. And there's one final shudder of joy as Elouise adds some spine tingling "ooooo"s over the backing vocals and instrumentals. It conjours up images of frosted windows, yearning glances, snowy lanes - and there really is something quite magical about making a song so vivid in it's imagery through lyrical and musical interpretation. If this was an edible treat, there's no doubt it would be a moist Christmas chocolate yule log... :D

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas ~ This features one of the most enchanting and beguiling introductions to a song that I've heard in a long time. A lovely tempered down vocal from Elouise plays delicately with a truly charming piano performance that continues throughout the entire song. There are some lovely chord progressions and the pianist knows when to build the tempo, crescendo the volume and reign it in to let Elouise shine. They complement our heroine perfectly - and she rewards this with her most beautiful vocal since last year's stirring You'll Never Walk Alone. There's a simply heavenly scale-progression of chords around the 2m10 mark that gives way to a fragile, plainative wish for peace and harmony at Christmas time. It's beautiful in it's simplicity; it's simplistic in it's delivery of beauty. I'm genuinely a bit tearful just from listening to it...

The narrative ~ There is wisdom in structuring the tracks in the order I've given them here. Dear Santa sees Elouise search for a man, perhaps conjouring one up with her festive powers, to see her through the long lonely nights by the fire (and hey, if that fire gets out of hand, well obviously the new dude is going to be a fireman of her dreams) and this continues the mystical theme of Could it Be Magic and the perfect fella theme of the aforementioned Fireman of my Dreams... Flash forward a few years and the reality isn't quite as rosy as it should be, with Elouise pleading with her chappy to return to her again for the holidays. Placed in the context of alone again (naturally), it adds a pathos and sadness to an already morose (yet musically uplifting) number. So luckily it's the optimism and perfect hope of Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas that rounds off the EP - a tune about seeing the best in things, whatever your situation. Elouise and her crew become excellent story tellers, perhaps even when they don't intend to. A triumph of a Christmas release.

Buy Santa's Little Helper here and here.

Christmas 2011: Boy Banned ~ Stars Are Saying Yes

2011-11-13T00:50:00.000-08:00

It is only 6 weeks til Christmas and I am throwing caution to the wind (whatever that means) and embracing the festive season with gusto from now. This very second. And this very blog post. Bah humbug to all those who say Christmas comes earlier each year - I say grab hold of the season of good will and make it last as long as possible :) I'm kicking it all off with what I have seriously found to be one of the most charmingly sincere and effortlessly engaging singles of the entire year...

Boy Banned ~ Stars Are Saying Yes (The Review):

Songs that pay tribute to the girl and boy groups of yesteryear are always difficult to pull off. There are only a few successful examples that spring to mind. En Vogue did some lovely harmonising, evoking classic Supremes and Chiffons on My Lovin'. One of Girls Aloud's finest moments was their sixties pastiche mixed with modern sensibility on The Promise. Boys II Men did some delightful old school classic Motown with It's So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday. But recently? Not so much. The always charming Boy Banned seek to rectify this with their absolutely wonderful new ballad, Stars Are Saying Yes - which is not only their finest single to date, but one of the dreamiest songs of the year.

Much like One Direction, BB have eschewed the trend of reference clubs and beats over an identi-kit Ibiza rave backing track for a more timeless feel that highlights the carefully nuanced creation of the tune, but also focuses on their fine vocals and spot on harmonies that are allowed to shine forth. Lyrically it's a tale as old as time, but one that never gets tired of being told - boy meets girl, boy stops being a player, girl quits her gad-about-town ways, their eyes meet across a crowded room and love blooms. It sounds cliched, heck it is cliched, but it's performed with such sincerity and staged in such an endearing way that even the hardest, most cynical of hearts will be drawn into the song. Musically, it's a layered track of harmonies that blend together seamlessly, a shuffling doo-wop vibe (think of The Warblers from Glee - always the highlight of last year's patchy season) and the most heavenly piano couplet that flows like a babbling brook in springtime over sparkling stones. Together, it's the most magical form of musical alchemy that casts an enchanting spell that's not soon forgotten. Add the gently shuffling sleigh bells and it has that festive-but-not-festive vibe that the greatest Jason Donovan single ever (When You Come Back To Me) had. It's a gem. Kudos to all involved because this is magic.

Boy Banned ~ Stars Are Saying yes (The Video):

This is normally where I would do a lovingly sarcastic screenshot by screenshot breakdown of the video, but I am so enamoured with the song that I'm not sure I have it in me to riff on it. Oh go on then, you've persuaded me...
The boys are on a nice rooftop terrace somewhere. Potentially in London. I suppose I should get this out the way quite early on - I like a fella all suited and booted, so they all look quite dapper and handsome. Particularly Adam :D
Ethan starts crooning along. The others (except Pob, the tee-total!) are having a quick sip of the booze. They have gone for the manly options like red wine, a mimosa and a flirtini...
Ethan is now flanked by what Frankie Cocozza would describe as "two fit birds". This is probably quite an accurate description as they preen like peacocks, billing and cooing at his every move. You can't blame them to be honest...
David's hair is out of control. It is at a Harry One Direction level of unpredictability. If he keeps growing it, it will soon become the fifth member of the group...
Now Pob and Adam are being wooed by the ladeez. Adam gets his tie straightened even though it wasn't askew to begin with. When (at 1m06) Curly Haired Tie Straightener kisses him on the cheek, he does a "oh you" look of surprise that I used to give my granny when you would plant a gummy smacker on me before I could resist :)
Meanwhile, Pob and Ethan continue their seduction of the ladeez. Pob usually gets a good ol' tonguing out of these videos so I'm surprised he hasn't made a move yet! And in this metrosexual world, would it have killed any of them to have a bit of a flirtatious beverage with some hot guys?!
Poor David isn't getting any action so he has a bit of a sing song looking over the streets of London. The boys clearly feel a bit sorry for him, so they join him, even though it suddenly turns to daytime. Still, it's a nice shot of all four of them (& David's Hair).
David's Hair is still crooning over the skylines as we approach the 2m mark, while Pob's Cheekbones are dazzling his lady companions. ooo, that makes them sound a bit like hookers. That wasn't my intention at all!!
Adam has a good ol' chortle with some red headed lass. She probably told him what Kelly Rowland was wearing on the X Factor on Saturday night. Hilarious!
The booze keeps flowing. Lots of "cheers" happen. David's Hair keeps wooing the London skyline. Ethan points out a star. That is presumably saying yes...
Curly Haired Tie Straightener tries to look pleased for Red Haired Girl when Adam sings in her face, but you can see that she is secretly gutted and is thinking, i should've straightened his trouser zip instead...
She was right, she should have! Adam The Playa (hate the game, not the playa, etc) goes in for another chaste peck on the cheek but this time from the Red Haired Girl. What a cad.
And then! God knows what he got up to inbetween shots because at 3m his tie is all over the shop :D
Hurrah! At the end there are some extra boys in the video! metrosexuality for the win!