Beats by Dre

They've arrived!!!

Rx

Rolling In The Deep

So these are the top 5 songs of 2011 according to 4Music...
Anywho, here they are with my opinions attached to the bottom.

Number 5 - Pitbull with Give Me Everything



I actually really like this song. I like it best when I'm drunk, in a club, dancing around like a loon. And it is mainly the chorus I love.
But it's so damn catchy - its become an anthem in most pubs and clubs across this fair Isle. A success in the midst of the usual RnB rammle from across the pond.


In at 4 - Jessie J with Price Tag



I used to like this song. Then it got played over and over and over again on Radio 1, then over and over and over again on local radio a few months later and then got played again over the festival period and now it sounds like a pneumatic drill in my head.... "b bling b bling, ch ching ch ching...."
And once that is over you hear her sing it live like she's from the ghetto with even more drilling noises.
Sick. Of. This. Song.

Numero 3 - LMFAO - Party Rock Anthem



I BLOODY LOVE THIS SONG!!
Still trying to perfect the dance moves. One of the best songs of the year for me!

Number 2 getting close to the top spot now..... Maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera - Moves Like Jagger



This will always remind of the time when I was on the tube with two 'ghetto' chavs. The short fat ginger one who said 'bruv' waaaaay too often, was acting all cool and like top dog when the other lad (much more ghetto looking) said: "I love that Moves Like Jagger song. I've been singing it all day. Who sings that again?"
Top dog replies: "ABBA"

It took all my strength to not laugh in the short, fat, ginger chav's face.
I do not like this song. It's annoying beyond belief and offends my ears.

Drum Roll please....... Number 1 is (what else could it be....) Adele with Someone Like You



This version of the song is sublime. I remember watching this live and nearly ended up in tears whilst shivering from all the hair on my neck standing on its end.
An incredible song which is truly deserving to be the best selling song of the year. I couldn't wish the accolade on a more genuine and down to Earth star as Adele either.

Rx

Songbird

So Little Mix won the X Factor... (I was rooting for Marcus!)

I won't offend your ears by publishing their version of Cannonball. Instead I'll post the video for the original by Damien Rice; the beautiful, touching and serenely exquisite version.

At least Mr Rice is making a few dollars from the Little Mix cover as his version rockets up the iTunes chart. :)

Rx

Vince the Loveable Stoner

The BBC Sound of 2012 Long list has been released today. I love this list, it's one of my favourite music events of the year. It reminds me of being snuggled up inside, when its freezing outside, huddled round the radio listening to fabulous music.

Here are the favoured few:

A$AP Rocky
Azealia Banks
Dot Rotten
Dry The River
Flux Pavilion
Frank Ocean
Friends
Jamie N Commons
Lianne La Havas
Michael Kiwanuka
Niki & The Dove
Ren Harvieu
Skrillex
Spector
Stooshe

My bets are on... Skrillex and Lianne La Havas to be in the top five somewhere.

The top 5 list is revealed daily from the 2nd Jan on Radio 1 with the winner being announced on the 6th.

Rx

All I Want For Christmas

Patrick Wolf – Brumalia EP

It would appear that Patrick Wolf isn’t content with releasing one album a year. After the release of Lupercalia in June this year, he followed it with the Lupercalia EP and he has now released the Brumalia EP. What a busy little bee he’s been!

Brumalia is a seasonal release from Mr Wolf, and is centred around winter, naturally. The EP kicks off with Bitten, a touching song about lost love backed by cellos and violas. Eerie melodies and dark bass lines evoke a sense of winter storms yet the song has a truly uplifting chorus. The chorus gives hope to the lost protagonist of the story who by the end makes it out safe after the storm.

Following from Bitten is Together, where the thumping bass continues on. Together is more upbeat and reflects on what could have been in this love story. The strings on the track really give a rounded sound and depth to the song which emphasises the touching lyrics.

Next comes This Time of Year, the Christmas single of the EP. This is very catchy. With a kind of 90’s pop vibe you’d expect this to be awful but it’s a very accomplished and classy attempt at a Christmas single. And considering the attempts in recent years for a decent Christmas number, he’s done a wonderful job.

The classic hymn Jerusalem is the shock entry in the middle of the EP. Wolf’s version is very inspiring and emotive, and with it, oddly haunting. As soon as it starts, it’s over and you’re left in amazement at just how good Patrick’s voice is.

Nemoralia starts well for the most part but then is suddenly filled with odd noises which make for uncomfortable listening. Trumpets and synths with electrical noises all competing against one another ends up being a bit of an assault on the ears. Questionable production at the end, let’s move on.

Pelicans sees the return to the Patrick Wolf we know and love. More energetic, this song is quirky and off the beat in one second then all of a sudden extremely calm and serene in the next. The contrast makes for an enjoyable song which echoes the past albums of Wolf.

Trust rounds off this EP in a lovely way. It is a relaxed ending which is backed by a beautiful harp melody. The song is an uplifting story explaining how all will be well if you just have a little faith. He sings ‘to trust my words and trust their meanings; to trust when love you are receiving’ – striking lyrics which will speak to all in this powerful and moving track.

Overall Brumalia is a wonderful EP which shows off Patrick’s creative genius and his flair. Give this little gem a listen.

Rx

Mardy Bum

Arctic Monkeys at the o2 – 30^th October

The lights go down. The tension starts to build as twenty thousand fans wait for four lads from Sheffield. The excitement grows until it’s about to boil over and then… You Sexy Thing rings out through the o2. The crowd goes wild dancing and pretend stripping to the Hot Chocolate classic until they appear from side of stage. Laughter turns to hysteria.

The thunderous bass line kicks in as Don’t Sit Down Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair immediately sends the crowd into a frenzy as the Arctic Monkeys start their simply incredible show.

The pace doesn’t let up for the whole night as the band show off a superb selection from their four albums. The crowd are relentless, loud and energetic - singing every word to every song – at times it’s hard to hear the band over the singing/shouting crowd. Alex can only look on, stunned at the adoration felt for his band.

‘How’re you doing Millennium Dome?’ asks Alex sporting his rather gorgeous new quiff.  One of the few times he addresses the crowd and they love him for it. After the obligatory scream-off between sides of the stadium, Alex dedicated Fluorescent Adolescent to the winners (the right hand side) and the energy in this huge stadium is euphoric.

Of course particular highlights are I Bet That You Look Good On The Dancefloor and When The Sun Goes Down when the crowd scream to high heaven. But even the ballads give chills as twenty thousand croon to Do Me A Favour.

After a brief pause the boys step out for the encore. Suck It And See is greeted with an enormous cheer but it is nothing to the volume of the crowd singing Mardy Bum to the band. In a toned down acoustic version the song takes on a romantic feeling and, loved up the audience are treated to the customary 505.

Tonight showed a band that is completely at home in the huge venues they can fill and they were spectacular! It’s been a very special evening - a truly amazing night.

Set List

Intro: 
("You Sexy Thing" by Hot Chocolate)

Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair 


Teddy Picker 


Crying Lightning 


The Hellcat Spangled Shalalala 


Black Treacle 


Brianstorm 


The View From The Afternoon 


I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor 


Evil Twin 


Brick by Brick 


Dance Little Liar 


This House Is A Circus 


Still Take You Home 


Pretty Visitors 


She's Thunderstorms 


Fluorescent Adolescent 


Do Me A Favour 


When The Sun Goes Down 


Encore:

Suck It and See 


Mardy Bum (Alternative live version)

505

Rx

People Help The People

The silence of live music is deafening.
Barely a quarter of pubs and small venues have a music licence to show live music due to the complex and confusing Licensing Act of 2003. Small gig venues are dying through out the country and a change is needed to prevent the British music industry from wilting away into manufactured abyss.

Fortunately there is a voice at the end of the mic in the shape of the Live Music Bill which is currently in Parliament. Liberal Democrat Peer Lord Tim Clement-Jones raised the Bill in the House of Lords in an attempt to stop the “absurdities of the Licensing Act which is stifling emerging artists” he said in an article for the Guardian last year.
The House of Lords spokesperson for Culture, Media and Sport is keen to promote Britain’s creative culture and he is concerned that the domination of British music worldwide is potentially being thwarted by the current legislation. The Bill proposes to change the current Licensing Act to allow small venues (200 people or less) with alcohol licences the liberty to show live music without having a music licence however, local authorities can remove the exemption if complaints from residents are upheld. This change would also allow schools, hospitals and other venues that don’t sell alcohol complete exemption from the licence for events with 200 people or less.

Clearly these exemptions allow up and coming talent to grow and show off what they have to give to the music world. The freedom for pubs and other small venues to allow live music will encourage more people into the pubs which, may been seen as a negative by some groups as it may encourage binge drinking but it will also give many more bands and artists the opportunity to hone their talent. Small venues will also benefit financially from this change in law as it allows them the choice, which they may not have been able to afford before, to offer more variety to their customers, which could draw in more custom.

Lord Clement-Jones said last year: “The decrease in live music in small venues, as evidenced by the DCMS’s (Department of Culture Media and Sport) survey into the act, is potentially denying us a generation of new performers.”
In a plastic pop generation, the music industry is hungry for a variety of new and fresh acts to diversify the charts. The new law will allow more and more venues to open their doors to live bands, which can only strengthen and improve the quality of music in this country. Most of our current successful bands started off gigging in small pubs and clubs and it would be a shame to lose that culture in the UK.

 Former guitarist of the Beautifully Decayed, Hannah Linne said: “I think it is a great idea [The Live Music Bill] because it will give local bands much more opportunity to play live and get good at playing live. And it gives the chance for record labels to gauge a bands popularity too, they can see an actual reaction from crowds rather than a number of hits on Youtube or MySpace.”
No doubt the music industry will continue to grow and make more money of the back of this Bill and perhaps that’s why it is going through Parliament – to try and save an industry which is losing money year on year to pirate downloads and Spotify. But surely the increased competitiveness of the market would lead to better quality artists and we would be left with the cream of the crop of talent from the UK.

 Regular gig-goer Gillian Ashton, said: “In the X-Factor age we are ending up with no creativity in the industry. It would be great to allow more venues to open their doors to new music – it will encourage creativity.”

The Live Music Bill had its Third Reading in the House of Lords last week and is now to go to the House of Commons.

The Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM) said earlier this month: “We are delighted that this Bill, with Coalition and Opposition support has made it to the House of Commons. The government must now urgently support this Bill through to its conclusion and deregulate live music.”

It’s hard to find a problem with this Bill passing through Parliament and the lack of opposition to it leads to the question why live music was regulated in the first place. The support which this Act will give to our home grown talent will encourage more and more talented people to share their gifts with the world which can only be a good thing.

To track the passage of this Bill go to The Live Music Bill Parliamentary site.

Rx

Midnight City

This is a rather beautiful cover of my favourite song at the minute...

And for the original...



Rx

Otis

Oh dear. Steps are back at the top of the album charts....

Don't get me wrong I loved them back in the 90's they were the second band I ever saw live (after Boyzone. Word) But in hindsight, they were pretty awful. I feel bad for subjecting my parents to their 'songs'. Tony, Sheila, I apologise profusely.

I feel bad for the people going to see them on their tour as I just don't think they'll be up to much...
Or maybe the audience should just all get really smashed, everyone likes a bit of cheese when they are smashed - it might help them get through the night...



Rx

Lions In Cages

The thoughts of many this week...



Wonderful Sketch

Rx

Into Dust

This is going to be massive. Big. Huge. 212.

Rx

Lithium

This week marks twenty years since the incredible second album of Nirvana's short but inspirational career, Nevermind.

It seems incredible that this album is only twenty years old. Most journo's are commenting on how 'it doesn't seem like five minutes since it was released... etc etc.' But I actually think its pretty incredible what this album has done in twenty years. It propelled Nirvana to international stardom and gave them eternal recognition in the grunge arena. There are countless bands that consider Nevermind a massive influence in their careers, it made so, so many young guys and girls pick up guitars and inspired a whole generation of new musicians. That's not bad for something that's only twenty years old. Heck, it's done shed loads more for the world than most things have in twenty years, eg me and I've got two years on it.

I think it's a brilliant album and a masterpiece from one very talented and tortured individual. Whatever reasons prompted his end, commercialisation of his work, corruption of the industry etc, I think Kurt would be very proud of the legacy and influence his seminal album has given the world.

I could post here every single track on that record, but you have it anyway, everyone does right?

So here is a tribute from Radio 1's live lounge this week from a very underrated artist. James Morrison gets a lot of stick and I get why but it's completely unfounded. He's a great bloke and this is a wonderful version of my favourite Nirvana song.



"It's better to burn out than fade away."

He certainly hasn't faded away.

Rx

Shake It Out

So I finally found this song which has been on adverts for aaaages and I kept forgetting to look it up.

It's the gorgeous Mazzy Star with Into Dust. I have now realised the song did actually come out in 2009... *on the ball*



Anyway, it's beautiful and I can't stop listening to it!

Rx

What The Water Gave Me

Congrats to PJ Harvey for her win at the Mercury Music Prize!
And what a wonderful album Let England Shake is. Truly well deserved. I think she is so interesting and refreshing in an industry full of churned out identical artists.

Such a touching speech  was given by the singer who is the only artist to date to win the prize twice. She mentions that the last time she won, on September 11th 2001 she couldn't be at the awards - she was in Washington watching the Pentagon burn. It was chilling to hear and reminds us all of the great accomplishments in a world filled with despair and destruction.



Great performance on our favourite, Later... With Jools Holland.

Rx

I'll Be There For You

It's finally happening.

Friends is leaving e4.

I'm so sad. It's your reliable and familiar TV which is always there for you in the evenings. And it's going to be replaced with Scrubs. Which, yeah is good but it is no Friends.



Sad, sad times.

Rx

Don't Go

Blitzen Trapper - American Goldwing

When you think of the US North West and its music scene you think grunge, punk and angry young men and women trying to perfect their Courtney Love impersonations. You wouldn't generally think of a light-hearted, laid-back country and western band… but maybe you should.

Blitzen Trapper are a six-piece hailing from Portland, Oregon who have been on the rounds since 2000 with American Goldwing being their sixth album. This record has been evolving since lead singer Eric Earley was six, apparently, when he got trapped under his brother’s Honda Goldwing. So with twenty or more years in the making the album should be their best work yet. And after the success of Furr the country music world is surely expecting something great.

The sound on this album is rather special. With hints of the White Stripes, Barry Louis Polisar, Lynyrd Skynyrd and whole load of indie thrown into the country mix, American Goldwing makes for pretty interesting listening. Although this is definitely a country album, it’s not conventional country , there are unexpected surprises which crop up throughout to give the album a bit of life.

The record eventually ends up as a mixed bag of upbeat country and some slower ballads, all written by lead singer Eric Earley. Earley’s voice is great; he’s got a lot of soul, even sounding like Dylan at times, especially in the ballads. It’s fair to say that the tracks about heartfelt topics are much better than the tracks about how time flies or the ones about nature and the mountains... The title track for example, ‘American Goldwing’, encourages everyone to ‘Get on board’ and make the most of life. It’s just dull, it barely evokes a reaction, let alone the kind of reaction needed to get a song talked about. Yet the songs about love and heartbreak make for a much more enjoyable listen. He croons in ‘Girl in a Coat’, “I been caught, been shot, been buried alive but that’s nothing compared to the look in her eyes.” The emotive topics, love, hate, pain are the reason why iconic songs become iconic – more people can relate to them. It’s tried and tested and you’ll find that Blitzen Trapper missed an opportunity to make this album great. There are glimmers of greatness, but not enough to make this album memorable.

The band's big break came when The Hold Steady took them on tour and Rolling Stone grabbed a hold of them back in 2007. Now, with Sub Pop Records behind them the album is sure to attract some attention in the US and further afield but you get the feeling it will be short-lived until they produce an album where all the songs are great not just a few. Overall, the album needs some more emotion and depth within it to make it more interesting. The ballads are good and if the album were full of them you’d love it, but the breaks to nature and irrelevant topics spoil what could have been an impressive album.

Rx

American Goldwing

So it's One Direction's turn to have a crack at their own post-X-Factor-try-and-get-a-single-out campain. The start sounds just like Grease.

 

Well it was always going to be a bit naff, a bit too catchy and have wayyy too many up close and personal shots of those boys wasn't it?? But I have to commend the boys for their efforts. They realise that they are pieces of meat to the teenage population - girls can dream about getting with their favourite band member; boys can copy the band's hair and clothes in order to get with the girls who dream about getting with the band. It's tried and tested, boy bands have always had this effect on the kids of the day so why mess with a formula that works?? That was One True Voice's problem. Look at them now. And look at Take That. Stick to the formula that works! What I do find hilarious though is the flood of haterz ripping into the girls in the video! Jealousy does strange things to teenage girls, I should know, I was one once, but that's a whole other story. But there is just so much hatred! Crazy stuff.

Rx

Superstition

Woooooop! The X Factor is back! Everything inside of me as a music journalist tells me to hate this program as its unorganic, no one works for their success, fills the charts with crap, makes it loads harder for bands etc blah blah yadda yadda yadda. We all know the arguments against the X Factor but I can't help but love it! Mainly as an entertainment show, not a music show but it's just great! This girl will go far (video from her youtube, xfactor youtube has disabled embedding??!!)

 


 And this always makes me happy:
http://youtu.be/A8oFfMes8x4

Rx

Swagger Jagger

Best song around at the minute:



I love this guy! What a voice, he's got such soul! He's been dubbed the 'male Amy Winehouse' which I can't disagree with, the word is spreading at just how great he is - I reckon he's here to stay.


Worst song around at the minute:



I don't like Cher Lloyd. I think this song is appalling. I don't think she sings very well at all.
But, with all that in mind, I somehow find myself drawn to her. I find myself interested in her shit tattoos, her tragic attempts to be 'out there' and her general pikey ways. It's utterly bizarre. Everything about her I dislike yet she's so magnetic, everyone, including me wants to know what's going on with her... I don't get it.

Rx

"Now this is a story all about how..."

My life got flipped turned upside down!
Ahhh the Fresh Prince is being aired on Viva again! It's part of their Yank your Viva season... an unbelievably crap theme hosted by an equally crap presenter, some dodgy comedian trying to "make it" whilst wearing too much eyeliner. *Been done*
But at least the Fresh Prince, Carlton and Geoffrey are back! It makes me very happy!



The song reminds me of Oceana in first year of uni. The cheese room. Dancing in a circle with the Nightingale massive. Amazing memories.

Rx

Jar of Hearts

<iframe width="560" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/KlyXNRrsk4A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Love this song. Love this video.

Though it made me think of this atrocity:

<iframe width="560" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/_BI0szjpxJs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

I reckon this is actually the worst song my ears have ever been subjected to.

Rx

Last Friday Night

As the tributes to Amy Winehouse continue to be aired on TV late into the evenings, it gives us a chance to see unseen performances and wonderful collaborations. However good her albums are, the sheer talent of this wonderful jazz singer is only shown when she sings live. Here are a few of my favourite performances.

http://youtu.be/WbVp09E1LRg





The Jools Holland performances are upbeat and amazing, the BBC Session is emotional and heartfelt. The many sides of Amy are shown here, and I love every one of them.

It is such a shame that it takes tragedy to celebrate her wonderful career.

Rx

Just Friends

As Back to Black resonates throughout the musical households of Britain today, a genius is remembered.
Biography writers tap away at lightning speed to get their version of her life to print first.
Back to Black sells out of HMV.
Crude Facebook statuses pop up about how she should have actually gone to rehab.
Russell Brand’s website crashes as fans seek solace in his words about his friend.
A strange turn of events occur when an icon dies.

Back to Black is one of the best albums I own. The story of her tortured soul spoke to so many people and her stacks of awards for it are truly deserved.
The music industry has suffered a tragic loss this weekend. Her music will live on and we will not find another star like her for a very long time.
May she find the peace she has been searching for.

This is a tribute written by Russell Brand. Truly touching.

When you love someone who suffers from the disease of addiction you await the phone call. There will be a phone call. The sincere hope is that the call will be from the addict themselves, telling you they’ve had enough, that they’re ready to stop, ready to try something new. Of course though, you fear the other call, the sad nocturnal chime from a friend or relative telling you it’s too late, she’s gone.

Frustratingly it’s not a call you can ever make it must be received. It is impossible to intervene.

I’ve known Amy Winehouse for years. When I first met her around Camden she was just some twit in a pink satin jacket shuffling round bars with mutual friends, most of whom were in cool Indie bands or peripheral Camden figures Withnail-ing their way through life on impotent charisma. Carl Barrat told me that “Winehouse” (which I usually called her and got a kick out of cos it’s kind of funny to call a girl by her surname) was a jazz singer, which struck me as a bizarrely anomalous in that crowd. To me with my limited musical knowledge this information placed Amy beyond an invisible boundary of relevance; “Jazz singer? She must be some kind of eccentric” I thought. I chatted to her anyway though, she was after all, a girl, and she was sweet and peculiar but most of all vulnerable.

I was myself at that time barely out of rehab and was thirstily seeking less complicated women so I barely reflected on the now glaringly obvious fact that Winehouse and I shared an affliction, the disease of addiction. All addicts, regardless of the substance or their social status share a consistent and obvious symptom; they’re not quite present when you talk to them. They communicate to you through a barely discernible but un-ignorable veil. Whether a homeless smack head troubling you for 50p for a cup of tea or a coked-up, pinstriped exec foaming off about his “speedboat” there is a toxic aura that prevents connection. They have about them the air of elsewhere, that they’re looking through you to somewhere else they’d rather be. And of course they are. The priority of any addict is to anaesthetise the pain of living to ease the passage of the day with some purchased relief.

From time to time I’d bump into Amy she had good banter so we could chat a bit and have a laugh, she was “a character” but that world was riddled with half cut, doped up chancers, I was one of them, even in early recovery I was kept afloat only by clinging to the bodies of strangers so Winehouse, but for her gentle quirks didn’t especially register.

Then she became massively famous and I was pleased to see her acknowledged but mostly baffled because I’d not experienced her work and this not being the 1950’s I wondered how a “jazz singer” had achieved such cultural prominence. I wasn’t curious enough to do anything so extreme as listen to her music or go to one of her gigs, I was becoming famous myself at the time and that was an all consuming experience. It was only by chance that I attended a Paul Weller gig at the Roundhouse that I ever saw her live.

I arrived late and as I made my way to the audience through the plastic smiles and plastic cups I heard the rolling, wondrous resonance of a female vocal. Entering the space I saw Amy on stage with Weller and his band; and then the awe. The awe that envelops when witnessing a genius. From her oddly dainty presence that voice, a voice that seemed not to come from her but from somewhere beyond even Billie and Ella, from the font of all greatness. A voice that was filled with such power and pain that it was at once entirely human yet laced with the divine. My ears, my mouth, my heart and mind all instantly opened. Winehouse. Winehouse? Winehouse! That twerp, all eyeliner and lager dithering up Chalk Farm Road under a back-combed barnet, the lips that I’d only seen clenching a fishwife fag and dribbling curses now a portal for this holy sound. So now I knew. She wasn’t just some hapless wannabe, yet another pissed up nit who was never gonna make it, nor was she even a ten-a-penny-chanteuse enjoying her fifteen minutes. She was a fucking genius.

Shallow fool that I am I now regarded her in a different light, the light that blazed down from heaven when she sang. That lit her up now and a new phase in our friendship began. She came on a few of my TV and radio shows, I still saw her about but now attended to her with a little more interest. Publicly though, Amy increasingly became defined by her addiction. Our media though is more interested in tragedy than talent, so the ink began to defect from praising her gift to chronicling her downfall. The destructive personal relationships, the blood soaked ballet slippers, the aborted shows, that youtube madness with the baby mice. In the public perception this ephemeral tittle-tattle replaced her timeless talent. This and her manner in our occasional meetings brought home to me the severity of her condition. Addiction is a serious disease; it will end with jail, mental institutions or death. I was 27 years old when through the friendship and help of Chip Somers of the treatment centre, Focus12 I found recovery, through Focus I was introduced to support fellowships for alcoholics and drug addicts which are very easy to find and open to anybody with a desire to stop drinking and without which I would not be alive.

Now Amy Winehouse is dead, like many others whose unnecessary deaths have been retrospectively romanticised, at 27 years old. Whether this tragedy was preventable or not is now irrelevant. It is not preventable today. We have lost a beautiful and talented woman to this disease. Not all addicts have Amy’s incredible talent. Or Kurt’s or Jimi’s or Janis’s, some people just get the affliction. All we can do is adapt the way we view this condition, not as a crime or a romantic affectation but as a disease that will kill. We need to review the way society treats addicts, not as criminals but as sick people in need of care. We need to look at the way our government funds rehabilitation. It is cheaper to rehabilitate an addict than to send them to prison, so criminalisation doesn’t even make economic sense. Not all of us know someone with the incredible talent that Amy had but we all know drunks and junkies and they all need help and the help is out there. All they have to do is pick up the phone and make the call. Or not. Either way, there will be a phone call.

A genius.

Rx

I Would Do Anything For You

*Shamelessly jumping on the bandwagon*



What a good looking band. Hot.

Rx

How We Roll

This song is wonderful!
I can't wait for the album. Plus this video makes me all nostaligic and happy about my Glastonbury memories. Watching this was great but I got very burnt - I still have the tan lines three weeks later...



Rx

You Need Me

Hilarious.



T in the Park looked wicked - it's on my festivals-to-do list, along with Bestival and Benicassim (once my skin learns not to burn).



Cannot wait to see the Arctic Monkeys in November!

Rx

Black Treacle

Amazing video. Katy Perry is great, you can't knock her for entertainment value and producing catchy and fun pop songs.

Seven Nation Army

And then I found this which also made me laugh :)

One of the better Radio 1 DJs:



Rx

Undercover Martyn

Glastonbury.

IT IS BLOODY AMAZING!!
It truly deserves its renound reputation of being the best festival in the world. I had such an incredible time... Some personal highlights:



Coldplay really were the best band of the weekend. Utterly enchanting and spine-tinglingly good.




This song holds so many touching memories from an incredible performance. They were sublime (even with the tax dodging).

Other highlights include:
Plan B doing a karaoke session complete with Stand By Me as well as a Coming Up Easy cover, then watching him 'mosh' on stage (in the loosest sense of the word) with his very angry guitarist.

Paolo Nutini (dream boat that is!) covering MGMT - Time To Pretend and Hot Chip - Over and Over as well as singing Coming Up Easy and my favourite lyrics of all time. It was in love I was created and in love is how I hope I die

Laughing Gas, MD, Meth and 'doobie'.

Meeting the lead singer of Two Door Cinema Club at the secret Radiohead gig.

Watching Two Door Cinema Club - what a wonderful first band of the weekend.

Everything Everything dressed in jumpsuits and yellow wellies. Wicked.


Lowlights:

Getting sunburnt. Again.

My tent getting broken.

My wellies getting broken.

My sunglasses getting broken.

Not remembering Beyonce, Shangri-la, Arcadia or Sunday night generally.

Wu Tang Clan. Absolute bollocks. Shit.

Coming home.

My amazing friends made the best festival in the world my absolute heaven - I think I'll be waiting a long time for another weekend that incredible.


Rx

Louder

Found this gem on my iPod whilst flying over a rather sodden looking Download Festival



That is one talented gentleman.

Rx

Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall

So my poor old Untitled Playlist has been a bit neglected of late. And it's a piss poor excuse I have for my lackadaisical approach to this fair blog.
Basically I'd lost my way a bit, I started to doubt myself and my whole ethos to my life and career. I panicked that journalism makes no money but accountancy does - yeah it's mind-numbing and soul-destroying but at least I'd have a nice flat overlooking the Thames to wither away my miserable existence, right?
Anywho, further into the demise I went and I was getting pretty fed up until I went on holiday.

I-Beeeeeef-Ahhhhh *shakes head in the excitable scream*

To Ibiza Rocks I flew (not on time, delayed, snore) and it was magnificent.

Highlights:
Swedish House Mafia at Cafe Mambo then on to Pacha (best club night ever!!)
Brother and The Wombats at Ibiza Rocks Hotel then on to Ibiza Rocks Bar and Es Paradis (worst DJ EVERRR)
Watching the sunset over San Antonio Bay
David Guetta at Pacha
Meeting Pritchard from Dirty Sanchez
Pete Tong at Cafe Mambo (fittest 50 year old going)
The list of stupid things my friends said
Being nocturnal for a week
My tan line :)

Lowlights:
My friend getting sick
Me getting sick (dodgy chicken burger)
Delayed flight out there
Even longer delayed flight back
Coming home to the worst rain I've ever seen!
Spending 10 precious minutes on hold to a retarded courier service. I shouted a lot.

But what I most loved about this holiday was that it reignited my absolute passion and belief in myself and in the music that I love.
Incredible.

And today I got another tattoo. I love it. I love that it represents what I truly care about and where my passion lies.
It's a musical note on my wrist.

So peace out kids, I'm back on track. Nothing to fret about...

p.s. Song of the holiday:



They were absolutely amazing. The best €70 I could have spent.

Rx

Joker and the Thief

Afghan Hounds debut....

Once you’ve found the Afghan Hounds MySpace page (after a momentary detour to the Google image results to check out what an Afghan Hound actually looks like) you’ll find a whole lot of houndstooth and not much else really. The reason being that this band is so brand new that they haven’t even played their debut gig yet! Hailing from Leeds and forming in September last year the band have just been working in the studio instead of braving the live circuits, a rather inorganic start for a band but it seems to have paid off. The album is incredibly well produced and accomplished – you wouldn’t think that this band are unsigned and haven’t played to a crowd yet…

The self-titled debut album is very tidy and succinct - each track ties into the next one brilliantly and by the time you’ve reached the final track, it mirrors the melodies of the very first track. At less than a year old Afghan Hounds’ mature attitude and considered approach to their album shows up many of their peers. They have produced an album, and a good album at that, not just a collection of singles.

The tracks themselves hit some good notes too in this 50minute long homage to indie music. Melodic guitar riffs and strong bass lines are what this whole album is all about. It’s easy to listen to and detailed tunes create dramatic emotions throughout the tracks. There is quite a cheerful vibe to the music but Matt Flint, the lead singer who sounds suspiciously like Guy Garvey, sets the tone with his moody and thoughtful crooning. Charismatic lyrics suit Flint’s voice perfectly as he sombrely confronts the big issues of life. “The young crowd offers a way out somehow” pulls at the heartstrings in Oh Farhad and sticking it to the man is addressed later on “If you want to conform let yourself drop” in Let Yourself Drop. When each part of the band combined together the sound is created is so comfortable that this could easily be their fifth album released for their ten year celebratory tour – there is a good chemistry behind the band.

However, despite its many good points the whole album does sound a little bit too much like Elbow, there are similar vocals to Wild Beasts, practically the same riffs as Bombay Bicycle Club, and so on and so forth. It’s a great shame as the tunes are good but had they arrived 7/8 years ago, they could have cemented their spot easily – now I think they may struggle to break into this big, bad, highly-competitive world as their material has sadly been done before.

You can tell Afghan Hounds have thrown everything at this album, big issues in the lyrics, perfect riffs and melodies as well as their whole detailed development of the album which create a debut which is hard to fault. However, whatever you think of the album, at some point whilst listening to it you will think to yourself, "Hold the phone. Why am I listening to Elbow? What the devil is iTunes messing about at?" But, alas, before you start clicking off Facebook and rebooting your lappers, the dull disappointment will set in as you read, 'Afghan Hounds - Torches'. It just doesn’t quite hit the spot.

Nice shed.

Rx

The Ballad of Mona Lisa

So I watched The Hangover and I'd forgotten how amazing the music is in it... A great soundtrack.







Rx

Castro Dies

I got my hands on the new Guillemots album and here is what I think of it:





Guillemots - Walk The River


Walk The River marks the welcome return of Guillemots three years after their last album. And with Fyfe Dangerfield back on side after his stint working for John Lewis the band have produced a simply wonderful album.
This album starts off spectacularly. The title track ‘Walk The River’ is haunting and beautiful, Fyfe repeatedly croons the poignant chorus, ‘Walk the river, like a hunted animal’ which makes for fond listening. Commanding drums and stripped down vocals are joined by exceptional guitar to create a song which would be a perfect single off this album.
‘I Don’t Feel Amazing Now’ is equally beautiful with its cheery tones despite it being about heartbreak, ‘my heart is on the table, you can’t take it if you want, it’s yours.’ Love is a strong theme throughout this album but Guillemots’ take on it is subtle and abstract – a refreshing change to the sickly mush we often hear.
By the time you arrive at ‘Sometimes I Remember Wrong’ you are faced with a bit marathon for the ears – slogging through a 9-minute epic half way through the album does get a bit tiresome. However, once it’s over the album gets its second wind as current single ‘The Basket’ kicks into life. Synthy and shouty, this song is the most diverse on the album, fusing together all three albums into a small four minute riot.
Emotive and punchy hooks sum up the album nicely. Touching lyrics and easy going melodies mean this album is more subdued that the previous albums from Guillemots but the depth of emotion in Dangerfield’s voice really does make up for the lack of bangs and whistles. The album starts off promising a more mature version of the Guillemots of old and, although it’s not perfect, by the end of this great record you’re likely to be pretty satisfied by what you’ve heard.

What a cool looking band.


Rx

What You Know

So the Glastonbury line up is out! :)

And it is blooming amazing!!!

I cannot wait!

Rx

Walk The River

SO this review is from May 2010. I found it again.

Lightspeed Champion - Bodega

Tonight's gig was a showcase for “Life is Sweet! Nice to Meet You” -Lightspeed’s latest album.

His performance was relaxed and fun whilst still being seamlessly precise, even despite the rough and ready approach taken by his technicians.

Even after he broke a guitar string on his first note, he continued to scurry around the fret board like ants after jam. There was quite a mix of fans in the crowd, ranging from the young superfans practically sat in his lap to a middle-aged balding bloke at the back singing along to every word, eyes shut.

Lightspeed seems to have found himself with this new record, he’s letting his amazing guitar solos and personal charm do the talking as opposed to him just being ‘cool’. This change has a better chance of attracting fans other than those who tick the box ‘pretentious’ and the new ones will undoubtedly stay with him because of it.

And this is a picture from said gig.

Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange

Time To Dance

Jamie Woon - Lady Luck


After the success of the anthemic Night Air, the music world was waiting with baited breath for Woon's second single, would he prove himself as the star we all hoped he would be? Thankfully, along came Lady Luck and she has firmly cemented Jamie Woon's place into the Dubstep elite.
Lady Luck is sensual and soulful, filled with passion and romance whilst being edgy and so damn cool at the same time. The lyrics are minimal and pretty simple which just makes for a showcase of Jamie's incredible voice. His silky tones caress the lyrics and evocative melody to create something really rather special. Staccato, off beat rhythms juxtaposed against Woon’s smooth vocals make this song stand out as a triumph for commercial RnB fused with Dubstep. This song is certainly raising expectation for his debut LP Mirrorwriting which is released on April 18. However, ruling Dubstep alongside James Blake and Magnetic Man, Jamie has every reason to be confident at telling the world that Dubstep is here to stay - we can only but obey.



Rx

Machu Picchu

So another album review from yet another indie band


Dutch Uncles – Cadenza

Cadenza is the ‘first’ album from Dutch Uncles and as Cadenza means a dramatic flourish of accomplished musicians and exceptional music I was expecting something special.
I say ‘first’ as Dutch Uncles were actually signed to an independent German label back in 2008 and released an album on the continent. Yes, I thought it a rather obscure beginning for a Mancunian indie band too. However, now back in Blighty and signed to Love and Disaster Records, Dutch Uncles are ready to release their first UK album.
Eleven three-minute songs of pure indie sounded right up my street but on reflection, I’m afraid I’ve heard it all before. Tight riffs and snappy lyrics with punchy drums are usually a pretty good combination – the killer combo has been proven time and time again. However, the reason indie music has lasted so long is that bands put their own stamp on the genre, something which has been missed by Dutch Uncles.
Highlights of the album are ‘X-O’ and ‘Fragrant’ which really show off lead singer Duncan’s tremendous voice. His voice and the whole band’s style in fact, echoes the likes of The Mystery Jets and Bombay Bicycle Club. And in that is what is most frustrating about this album. It isn’t a bad album, not by any means - it’s just nowhere near good enough to compete with its peers. Whilst listening to the album for the first time all I could think of was Two Door Cinema Club, Egyptian Hip Hop and Everything Everything. And there are serious questions to be raised when your album sounds like an uninspired version of three other brilliant albums.
Cadenza is a copy cat album bringing little originality to the table. There’s no stop-and-take-note element to this album. I mean, I didn't even notice the album had looped over until I was on track 5 again. These days with the sheer volume of music that is around, you have to stand out. The spark and unique point about this band is missing – using obscure time signatures just isn’t enough to get you heard.
All in all, if you want non-descript indie which is pleasant enough for background music then Cadenza will be right up your street. However, for something a bit more special and memorable, look to any of the other bands mentioned above.
It’s fair to say I had high hopes for this album - an edgy five piece from Manchester pounding out the indie should have been great. Unfortunately it turned out to be just another indie album to toss on the scrap heap.


Rx

I've Had The Time Of My Life

Beach Fossils – What a Pleasure

Just when you thought we’d lost classic indie music to the thumping synths of drum and bass over the last few years, Beach Fossils come to the rescue with a simply brilliant new EP.

Not content with just another indie record to be listened to, acknowledged and dismissed all in one week, lead singer Dustin Payseur clearly took his time over this album. ‘What a Pleasure’ is wonderfully complete. The harmonies and melodies intertwine amongst each other like teenager lovers alone for the first time. The music cradles the wistful and romantic lyrics into a delicate yet dynamic record. Each song ties into the next and by the last track of the EP, ‘Adversity’ links right back round to the opening track ‘Moments’. The composition of the instruments is classy and mature which, in short, makes for complex and beautiful album. Kudos to Dustin for creating a symphony with two guitars and a drum kit.

There are hints of Field Mice and even the XX in the new, more focused sound offered by Beach Fossils since their last album. Wild Nothing also feature on the track ‘Out In The Way’ and they have clearly influenced Beach Fossils in honing their sound into the delight it’s become.

At just 21 minutes the EP is over way too soon. Like the fleeting romances Payseur is crooning about, each track is short, impressionable and infatuating. You find yourself getting absorbed by the music as you float away with the lyrics into daydreams of lazy summer days. Dustin’s melancholy voice creates stark contrast to the benign and charming lyrics, “the sun lights the room because we talked all night.” The juxtaposition works so well – it adds another enchanting layer to this opus.

What I personally love about this record is how honest and simple it is. It’s not trying too hard nor is it covered up with ridiculous outfits or accompanied by a stupid dance routine. It’s just great music. And that’s what it’s all about isn't it? The reason we listen and search through hundreds of albums is to find glimpses of genius and something which you really connect with. So when you land upon those special records they stay with you. And this totally does it for me this album.

What a pleasure indeed.

Check it out here:

Beach Fossils New Album

And the published version here:
http://www.rhythmcircus.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=868:beach-fossils-what-a-pleasure&catid=48:cd-reviews&Itemid=124

Rx

Champion

Suck It and See.



What a great name! So the Arctic Monkeys have released a date for their latest album, 6th June it will be hitting our shops so we will have heard it by mid May.
Track list goes as follows:

01. She's Thunderstorms
02. Black Treacle
03. Brick by Brick
04. The Hellcat Spangled Shalalala
05. Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair
06. Library Pictures
07. All My Own Stunts
08. Reckless Serenade
09. Piledriver Waltz
10. Love is a Laserquest
11. Suck It and See
12. That's Where You're Wrong

And here's the first album of the album. Number 3.




Rx

Hitz

Yes I do.

I LOVE this.



I think Kissy is such an underrated DJ and mixer. His Radio 1 show is just always brilliant.

Rx

Come Closer

I love Jamie T.

Since Jamie first abused our ears with Sheila and her friend Stella back in 2007 he has pushed boundaries which other singer-rapper-musicians can only dream of. Instead, they can only follow in the footsteps of this amazing talent.
Yet, we've seen or heard nothing from the boy wonder since Glastonbury last year. With no live dates planned nor album rumblings, I have to wonder where the cold-blooded murderer of our fair English tongue has disappeared to.

Come back Jamie!



"I. Love. Him. He. Love. Me. Too. That's. Why. We. Get. To-Geth-errrr."

Rx

Born This Way

Ooof. The new Radiohead song.



We've got to get that dance down.

Hailing from the new album 'King of Limbs' which I am just about to get my hands on, Lotus Flower is an incredible punch in the music scene's face. Take that, Take That and Beiber. Listen to some proper music.

Rx

Under Cover of Darkness

Innercity Pirates review....

Innercity Pirates – Cutting Noses Chasing Tales

Screaming at the start of a record never usually excites me but there was something rather intriguing about the next EP of Innercity Pirates as it kicked off. In fact, as “Cutting Noses Chasing Tales” progressed the ferocious guitar and loud drums tied with Russell Toomey’s voice makes for pretty thrilling listening.

Ten songs, all short, all snappy, all fit together well. This band has clearly thought long and hard about their next release. There are songs to dance to, songs to shout along to - this album is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, yet the band remain unsigned. You’d think that surely one of their 11,000 Myspace friends could help them out?

Russell really does make this record special. There’s such an intensity of emotion and charisma which resonates through his voice and alongside his argumentative attitude the songs really grab your attention. From the angry acid tongue in “She’s a Bastard” Russell’s voice is equally powerful in the slow and rather moving verses of “Dead Man”. Colourful and blunt lyrics match the voice which sings them which creates an overwhelming sense on raucous enjoyment to the whole album. It really is well worth a listen.

This record is full of squeaks, screams and catchy choruses which show glimpses of the Hives, some Pulled Apart By Horses and a bit of the Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster. However, with all these influences comes a completely original sound which should gain them some recognition for all the hard work they’ve put into it. Hailing from Barry in Wales the four-piece are ‘under the radar’ and touring incessantly trying to claw themselves to the top of the greasy pole that is our music scene, or at least to a record contract at any rate.

The album is released 28^th Feb and the band are on tour at the minute hitting most major towns around our fair isle so get your dancing shoes on and join the mosh pit.

Rx

Blind Faith

The Strokes are finally back!



And what a wonderful return it is.
I can't get enough of this song, I actually 'love' this song - it's lastfm official and everything.
I just can't find fault with this song. The band are as sharp as ever, Julian's voice is amazing and I am very excited for the rest of the album :)

Rx

"Yes! It's an extender!"

NME Tour 2011 - 8th February 2011

The Vaccines kicked things off.
What a let down. After hearing Wreckin' Bar and Post-Break Up Sex I was expecting The Vaccines to be something different - finally a new wave of indie after the mundane raft of crap we have seen of late. But alas, here is another band to add to the scrap heap, who we won't remember in two years time. With a bassist stuck in the 90's in a Nirvana tribute act and a guitarist that looks like Uri Gellar, the whole band doesn't gel together in this muddled set. Of course, the 14 year-old indie children enjoyed it, moshing along to the slow song 'Blow It Up' but why wouldn't they? Its light-hearted indie-pop with no depth, which we've all seen before. After a few songs showing off signature moves and riffs from the Smiths and We Are Scientists - the whole thing just got really tiresome. Bring something new to the table!
5 Word Review: Just another sodding Indie band.

Everything Everything followed.
Striding out in matching Ghostbusters style jumpsuits, Everything Everything finally get this gig going. Jonathon Higgs' voice really shone - I was gob-smacked at how good it was live. I was convinced he was all computerised but no, he's just that good! He reached beautifully high notes that sent the crowd into an out-of-tune-dancey-moshpit-sing-a-long. They were the shock of the night for me, they just surpassed expection. MY KZ UR BF was a particular highlight a which sent the crowd into a complete frenzy. Amazing stuff.
5 Word Review: Who're gonna call? Everything Everything.

Magnetic Man came next.
Joining together the three DJ's of Benga, Skream and Artwork was always going to be good - but throw in Katy B, John Legend and other friends into the mix and it was sure to make a phenominal sound. Magnetic Man delivered something special tonight. Some of the most extraordinary mixing I've ever heard - the music itself was incredible. Beats dropping here, there and everywhere made for a magical performance. The whole set was flawless. The MC orchestrated the whole affair wonderfully, psyching the crowd up to every song, finally ending with -  "Phew, it's hot in here. I need to crack a window. Open a door. Where's the window? I need... I need...I need..." to which the crowd duly screamed "Airrrr" and hysteria ensued. Incredible.
5 Word Review: Only bloody stole the show!

Crystal Castles finished proceedings.
Poor old Alice hobbled on stage with a cast around her broken leg but showed true showmanship by jigging around as best she could anyway - determined to play, despite her Doctor's warnings. The performance was bound to be dampened by the lack of movement but she still screamed and shrieked to high heaven. You couldn't fault the music nor the atmosphere from the crowd - it was electric. However, something was missing - a working leg for instance- which would have just made the show reach the peak it should have done. It couldn't be helped but that extra spark was absent.
5 Word Review: Should've been brilliant, just slipped.

Rx

Viva La Vida

So whilst I was at the Retford Times, I got a free pedicure. Here's what I thought of it.

Bored of your normal pedicure routine? Or do you just fancy a bit of the bizarre?
Why not try the new WonderFish treatment which is sweeping the nation? I called into Impulse in Hallcroft which is the first salon in Retford to show off the unique and somewhat unorthodox pedicure treatment.
After rinsing my feet I sat on the bench, feeling rather nervous and with increasing trepidation I lowered my feet into the Fish Spa. The tiny fish went crazy and rushed to my feet - the tickling sensation and laughter took over and I quickly pulled my feet out again. Once I’d stopped giggling and composed myself, I managed to lower my feet into the warm water. The enthusiastic fish fought to get to my feet looking for any hard skin to soften. The Garra Rufa fish, also known as the Doctor Fish, are only a few centimetres long and are native to Turkey, often used in spas across the Middle East. There were around 100 fish suckling at my feet – they have no teeth so don’t fret, they can’t bite!
It was captivating to watch the frenzied fish at work, swarming in and around your toes, nibbling at the skin. Even though it was possibly the weirdest feeling I’ve ever felt, once I’d relaxed into it, the almost vibrating sensation was oddly relaxing. After a rather giddy 15minutes I took my out my feet and they felt remarkably smooth and soft. Utterly bizarre and wonderfully weird, the WonderFish are well worth a visit.

Louise, receptionist at the salon, talked me through the advantages of having the unusual pedicure: “It’s great for everyone but is particularly good for people suffering with Psoriasis, Eczema and Calluses. The painless massage also stimulates blood circulation.
“If maintained, once or twice a month, the fish alone can keep on top of hard and rough skin on the feet and hands.
“There is space for two people to have the WonderFish treatment so you can bring a friend along to experience this new pedicure.
“It’s a really good novelty experience too. Just pop in for 15minutes and you are left with really smooth feet when you leave.”

Impulse charges £10 for 15minutes with the fish and for an extra £10 you can enjoy the Fish Deluxe Pedicure which includes a 45 minute finishing pedicure.
Loyalty cards are offered at the salon, giving a free session with the WonderFish after four sessions and gift cards are also available.
Bookings aren’t necessary for the WonderFish alone but are advised so as to avoid disappointment. Call Impulse on 01777 709977.

Rx

Hoppipolla

On a much more serious note, I was working at the Retford Times this week. I had to do some real journalism about real matters not just blokes with guitars...
Here's some vox pops:

This week, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has announced proposals to change paternity rights. The proposals will see parents sharing maternity leave, allowing fathers extra time off work if the mother goes back to work early. This could see fathers having up to six months off work for paternity leave. Currently mothers are allowed up to a year off work and fathers a mere two weeks. Labelling the current rules as ‘Edwardian’ Clegg’s proposals should be in force by 2015.


But what do the parents of Retford feel about these changes?


Ms Oprych was fully supportive of the idea and its options for flexibility. “It’s good for the man to get more, but depending upon circumstances, it may be necessary for mother’s to take the full year themselves.”


Mrs Hookings of Retford championed Nick Clegg’s ideal that the new proposals would keep up with modern life. “Some men want to have the input so it’s a good idea that they get their turn.”


Mrs Anderson of Retford highlighted the issue that fathers may not be willing to take advantage of the proposals. “Men may feel peer pressure to not take the time off as it is not the ‘macho’ thing to do. There’s definitely still a stigma attached to men being the stay-at-home parent. However, it would be a great opportunity for men to share the experiences that new mums face.”

Mr and Mrs Willoughby of Retford, said that the changes would be completely dependant upon the circumstances of the family. Factors such as each parent’s careers and the financial burden play a vital role in this. “It’s a good idea to allow for option and choice. Currently the father gets a pretty raw deal. Thumbs up to it!”


Ms Marsden of Worksop commented that it would help the Dad to be more involved with caring and job-sharing however there are some practical issues which may cause problems. “Modern women may expect a more equal division of parenting. However, I can’t see many employers being impressed by the provisions. It’s a great idea but many men may be discouraged in the workplace from taking extra time off.”


Boring, eh?
I think I'll stick to music.

Rx

Someday

It's that time of year again....

The Brit Awards have returned!
The nominees were announced this week at a very exclusive pre-party at Indigo2 hosted by the ever insufferable Fearne Cotton. Tinie Tempah stole the show bagging himself FOUR nominations! However, he has been nominated for British Male and British Breakthrough so I'm not quite sure how that works... How he can be new and established I don't quite get...
Any who, here is the full list on nominees!

BRITISH MALE SOLO ARTIST:

• Mark Ronson
• Paul Weller
• Plan B
• Robert Plant
• Tinie Tempah

I reckon Mark Ronson should win this but I think Tinie will edge it. Don't get me wrong he's a worthy winner, I just think Ronson has had more impact and therefore more deserving this year plus he has better hair.

BRITISH FEMALE SOLO ARTIST:

• Cheryl Cole
• Ellie Goulding
• Laura Marling
• Paloma Faith
• Rumer

Ellie for me closely followed by Laura. Both worthy winners. I hope to God Cheryl doesn't win...

 

BRITISH BREAKTHROUGH ACT:

• Ellie Goulding
• Mumford & Sons
• Rumer
• Tinie Tempah
• The XX
• Tinie Tempah will win this by a country mile. He's had such an amazing year. This would just be the icing on the cake for him.

 

BRITISH GROUP:

• Biffy Clyro
• Gorillaz
• Mumford & Sons
• Take That
• XX

Mumford all the way.

 

BRITISH SINGLE

• Alexandra Burke ft Pitbull - All Night Long
• Cheryl Cole - Parachute
• Florence & The Machine - You’ve Got The Love
• Matt Cardle - When We Collide
• Olly Murs - Please Don’t Let Me Go
• Plan B - She Said
• Scouting For Girls - This Ain’t A Love Song
• Taio Cruz - Dynamite
• Tinie Tempah - Pass Out
• The Wanted - All Time Low
• Florence and You've Got The Love is the most fabulous cover ever (save for maybe Muse and Feeling Good) and would easily be my choice here. Pass Out second. I am offended that Parachutes is in this list - makes me slightly worried about the panel.

 

MASTERCARD BRITISH ALBUM OF THE YEAR

• Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More
• Plan B - The Defamation of Strickland Banks
• Take That - Progress
• Tinie Tempah - Disc - Overy
• The XX - XX

I fancy that the XX will have a Brit Award to sit alongside their Mercury Prize for their stunning debut album.

 

INTERNATIONAL MALE SOLO ARTIST

• Bruce Springsteen
• Cee Lo Green
• David Guetta
• Eminem
• Kanye West
• Eminem. He will always be my Best International Solo Male, even when he's addled his brain through drugs and starts rapping about the fairies and elves that are now looking after Hayley.

 

INTERNATIONAL FEMALE SOLO ARTIST

• Alicia Keys
• Katy Perry
• Kylie Minogue
• Rihanna
• Robyn

Got to be Rihanna.

 

INTERNATIONAL BREAKTHROUGH ACT

• Bruno Mars
• Glee Cast
• Justin Bieber
• National
• Temper Trap
• As much as I haven't fallen in love with Justin Bieber the rest of the world has and I concede that he really is the International Breakthrough Act of the year. It is crazy how Bieber fever has taken over!

 

INTERNATIONAL GROUP

• Arcade Fire
• Black Eyed Peas
• Kings of Leon
• The Script
• Vampire Weekend
• Kings of Leon everyday of the week for me, however, I am not impressed with their new album nor their corporate sell-out clad-in-their-own-label-leather-jacketed selves. I really want them to win to make up for the lack of recognition they got when they were in their prime.

 

INTERNATIONAL ALBUM

• Arcade Fire - The Suburbs
• Cee Lo Green - The Lady Killer
• Eminem - Recovery
• Katy Perry - Teenage Dream
• Kings Of Leon - Come Around Sundown
• Arcade Fire's album is the best one here. Actually as I type this 'Suburbs' has just come on XFM and just confirmed to me how brilliant this album is.

 

CRITICS’ CHOICE

• Jessie J (Winner)
• James Blake
• The Vaccines
• All of these nominees will have brilliant years but I think Jessie J does edge it for me. The right choice I think.

 

BRITISH PRODUCER

• Ethan Johns 
• John Leckie
• Markus Dravs 
• Mike Pela
• Stuart Price
• Tough call here between Ethan and Stuart though I think Stuart might get it due to the fact he produced more albums last year. However Ethan produced Laura Marling's album (fabulous) and the Kings' first three (and best) albums. Tricky.

Also check out this wicked performance of Tinie Tempah's new song Wonderman featuring Ellie Goulding at the Brit Awards Launch party.

Rx