The Veronicas // You Ruin Me

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Somewhere in the back of our minds, we seem to recall The Veronicas a number of years ago…so long that actually, we don’t remember the music just the name. However now we have the lead single from their forthcoming self-titled album, and it goes by the name of You Ruin Me.

Melodically, it’s a piano driven track with strings entering just as the vocals start with the chorus. Vocally, it’s full of heartfelt emotion and feel very much like a break-up song with opening lyrics Job well done/ standing ovation. Yeah you got what you wanted/ I guess you won. Looking at it as a whole, the song is minimalistic but that lends to the vulnerability that runs through it.

The question is in a music scene that seems, at time, saturated with ballads, will this stand out? Only time will tell but apart from that, it’s not a bad wee track.

Rating: 5/5

Bentley Jones // Defying Gravity

(Deluxe Edition mp3 cover)
Standard
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Deluxe
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It’s been 2 years since Bentley Jones last album release but between then and now we’ve had a sprinkling of single & EPs. And now it finally time to get our hands on the album release that has been teased for months.

The album opens with the first single Evolve before heading into Follow You Down to maintain the pace before we slow things for two uptempo ballads in the form of
Without You (Come Back) & I Have Loved.

Next we have 夢のしずく or the Japanese version of the single Nothing. Everything. Next we make a return to a sound that shows that there is still the naughty streak there (R1D31T) before taking a punt of the title track of the album, a cover of a song from the Wicked musical,  Defying Gravity which we can’t help think sums up Bentley and his career to a t.

Once again we slow it down for One Too Many Goodbyes before it’s back to the more uptemponess with Talk 2 U.  Axiomatis is a bit of an odd track given that it was actually composed between Jones and his fans (known as The TruthST4LK3RZ) and also features them on instruments, backing vocals…pretty much this is their anthem and it’s a bit of feat to have pulled off in what some might determine as a short timeframe.

As almost a reward for buying the physical release we have an additional track.Devil's Cry (Shall Never Surrender) is Bentley take on the theme from Devil May Cry 4, originally planned from a now scrapped project, the song has been given a spit & polish to bring it into line with the rest of the album. The One on the standard edition (read downloadable from other sites) brings the album full circle and end it’s off perfectly.

However, if you’re like us and opted for the deluxe physical edition, then you’ve still got a few tracks to go. 残酷な天使のテーゼ (Theme from "Neon Genesis Evangelion") is a modern taken on the 90s anime theme. Next we’re given the English version of a tracks a few back. Yes we are talking about Nothing.Everything, a track that if we’re honest, we weren’t keen on until hearing the Japanese version. And in closing we have the Japanese version of the album title track Defying Gravity, known here as 自由を求めて.

The accompanying DVD of the deluxe comes with videos for Evolve, I Have Loved, Nothing.Everything, Axiomatis and two tracks previous released on an EP, What Now…? and The Place Where Dreaming Ends. Live ukulele versions of Evolve & Nothing.Everything, a track by track and message from Ben wrap the DVD up.

Looking at the release, there is probably more falsetto here than we were expecting and sometimes it does feel as if he is reaching the top end of his range for it. However, it is probably because it’s not something that we are entirely familiar in hearing from Jones, except in the occasional track. That aside, it feels a very personal album from him but that the imagery constructed from the lyrics may resonate with those listening.

Rating: 4/5

Various Artists // BBC Radio 2 Presents Sounds Of the 80’s

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It was probably only a matter of time before an album was released in…celebration of the revival of BBC Radio 2 show. But this is not the original tracks…as you might have guessed given the tag line: Unique covers of classic hits.

Now when it comes to covers, for us, we like to hear a song respect the original but at the same time be given something that make it’s their. There’s a few example of this with the likes of the The Script’s take on Drive, Ed Sheeran’s Atlantic City, Caro Emerald’s Walk Like An Egyptian, James Blunt’s I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues, The Pierces Don’t Give Up.

Then you’ve got the tracks that sound a bit more samey as the original but work for the vocalist like Arthur’s Theme (The Best That You Can) by Rummer, Smalltown Boy by Dido, Train’s Holding Back The Years & The Overtones take on the Wham! classic Wake Me Up Before You Go. And then at the other end of the scale, you have the tracks that either sound too similar and no imagination like Kian Egan’s Run To You, Boyzone’s Whole Of The Moon & Level 42’s Need You Tonight or you have to wonder what they were thinking at the time (Christina Perri’s Turn Back Time, Birdie’s Lucky Star)

Overall, it’s a bit of mixed bag but the better tracks outweigh what in our opinion is some of the weaker tracks on the double cd release. On the most part, the covers are done well, but some need a good looking at whilst some just need someone to plug them into the National Grid to give them a bit of a jump start.

Rating: 3/5

Peter Hollens // Peter Hollens

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Frequent visitors to this blog will know that we’ve featured some of Hollens’ singles. Well, now he’s only gone and got an album released on a major label!

Opening the album is I See Fire (of Ed Sheeran fame) which automatically reminds you that, for the majority if not all the tracks on this album are made using only voices. Next is a take on The Elder Scroll’s Skyrim theme fearuring another of this blogs favs, Lindsey Stirling, which is for one track features over 100 seperate tracks to produce the sound. A take on Jason Mraz’s song I Won’t Give Up, delivered with the same passion as heard in the original.

Next we head to Broadway for a Les Miserables Medley featuring Hollens’ wife Evynne before another collaboration, this time with Sabrina Carpenter in the form of the U2 classic, I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For. Things take a tender moment with the American folk song, Shenandoah before changing location for another folk song, this time from Ireland in the form of She Moved Through The Fair.

Hallelujah comes next and is a duet with Jackie Evancho (you might know her name if you watch America’s Got Talent) and leads into a duet with Brian Wilson (of Beach Boys fame) in Our Special Love. Back to the folk songs and first we have The Parting Glass that we’ve previously reviewed before he have Black Is The Colour of My True Love’s Hair featuring Avi Kaplan (of Pentatonix) on vocal duties as well.

Ashland’s Song is Peter’s own composition, written for his recent newborn son, and is a track that parents will no doubt be able to relate to. The final track on the album is Misty Mountains (as heard The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey) and for us, we feel it leaves you waiting for more.

Overall, we find difficulty in finding fault with the album when you consider that it is all recorded using, for a number of them, just one voice. It would be easy to say ‘oh but he’s already released some tracks individually’ (which he has and the majority can be bought over on Loudr) but ignoring that fact, this album is quite a nice introduction into Peter’s world particularly for those who may not be as familiar with his works. That said, it’s also a nice collection for fans as some of the songs featured are from the fan favourite videos. We, meanwhile wait to see what next in store.

Rating: 5/5

Brian Wilson & Various Artists // God Only Knows

 
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It’s not long until that time of the year again, and yes, we are talking about Children In Need, so it’s time to cue the singles to aid in the fundraising effort.

The track (a cover of the Beach Boys classic, God Only Knows) isn’t only a fundraising single but also launching BBC Music. In similar tone to the 1997 single, Perfect Day, this single features a plethora of performers with the likes of Emeli Sande, Lorde, Elton John, Chris Martin (of Coldplay), Florance (without her Machines), Kylie, Pharrell and more, each taking a line of the track as well as having Brian Wilson shown playing the piano and singing two of the lines (one being the final of the track which seems appropriate)

This isn’t a bad track and considering the number of different voices on the single, it does work well and is one that will probably appeal to all ages. And it’s for charity too so it’s doing some good too.

Rating: 5/5

Jedward // Ferocious

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It’s been a few years since we’ve crossed paths with Jedward (our last outing being just before the 2011 Eurovision song contest) but we’ve just come across the newest single from their fourth album (titled Free Spirit) called Ferocious.

It’s in the streams of pop and dance. But the vocals sound more mature than our last crossing. And maybe that’s in part that the song was inspired by fans who letters about their problems. And in true agony…uncle(?) style, the following lyrics are found: Life is never easy/Don’t ever pack it in/Deal with all the highs and lows/ Don’t let them say you can’t.

To be honest, it actually a decent track although we do have a small issue with the repetitive nature of part of the chorus (Ferocious/Ferocious/I will be ferocious) which does fell a wee bit like they couldn’t think of anything else to put here.

Maybe the boys have turned a new leaf. Only time will tell.

Rating: 3.5/5

Jonathan Antoine // Tenore

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It’s just been short of a year since Jonathan’s last outing with then partner in music, Charlotte (who herself released her own album this year too) but now it’s time for Jonathan to take centre stage with his own solo outing in the form of Tenore.

The opening tracks do sort of set the tone & style for the album, that being quite operatic and it shows with the likes of La donna è mobile from Rigoletto, followed by
Torna a Surriento & Nel blu, dipinto di blu (Volare) (though we’re used to hearing this at a slightly quicker tempo!)

Be My Love is the first track that we get to hear Antoine put that voice through English before head back into Italian with Parla Più Piano  followed by Panis Angelicus
& Una furtiva lagrima from L'elisir d'amore

So Deep is the Night (Arranged from Chopin's Tristesse, Etude Op. 10/3) brings things back to a slightly lighter tone before to head into a little bouncy track with Arrivederci, Roma. Fanfare is called for with Core 'ngrato as well as with Granada before ending the album on a high with Love Changes Everything from Aspects of Love with a simple piano accompaniment leading in.

Overall, this album seems to suit Jonathan and feels much more natural than what we’ve heard in previous outings. Once again we can hear him growing in confidence and utilising that powerful voice. There are still some moments where he is a little rough but these are few and far between and just shows that he still has some things to learn. But that aside, the arrangement of the tracks have been sympathetic to his voice with neither drowning the other at any point.

Some may see the tracks as safe but to us, this album says, this is me. We look forward to seeing where or maybe what Jonathan gets up to in the future

Rating: 4/5

Kitty Brucknell // Glitter in the Sky

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Do you remember Kitty? She was a semi-finalist in the 2011 series of The X Factor. Now 3 years on and she’s ready to release her debut single.

We just don’t know where to begin and, in some instances, we think the song feels a bit like that too. It reminds us a lot of the Rod Stewart track Young Turks with lyrics that just seem randomly strung together. It is a shame too, because comparing this to her other track that she’s released on her YouTube channel, Chains, it feels that this song doesn’t really showcase her vocals

Maybe this track is just to get people talking about her ahead of her album, Glamour & Damage, release at the end of the month.

Rating: 1/5

Hudson Taylor // Chasing Rubies

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We’ve never came across these Dublin based duo but there is something about their release, Chasing Rubies, that caught our attention. It’s got a bit of a folk-pop feel to it and in ways, reminds us a little of Razorlight’s America but more quicker tempo and an Irish accent.

Beautiful melodies & wonderful harmonies make this a track to look out.

Rating: 4/5

One Direction // Steal My Girl

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Some you win and some you lose, that’s how we’ve come to see the One Direction boys when it comes to singles. Despite our ups and downs with the lads, we always like to come back and see what they’re going to offer up next. After seeing them in a new light with Story of my Life we thought we’d have a gander at the latest offering, Steal My Girl.

Alas, any hope of a more mature soon so far seems to have been dashed. This latest offering feels more album material rather than single material though we’ll allow it to be pulled out for concert performances because we reckon that it will definitely get a sing along. But in general, it feels a little too Westlife-esque and a bit of a slip from where they were headed.

One could hope that this is just a minor slip up and that the next release from the forthcoming album, simple titled Four, gets them back on track.

Rating: 2/5

The Vamps // Oh Cecilia (Breaking My Heart)

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We remember looking at the track listing for The Vamps album, seeing this and thinking, ‘a cover…ok, we’ll let you have that’.

But thing about Oh Cecilia (Breaking My Heart) is that it only really borrows two things from the original Simon & Garfunkle track, simply titled Cecilia, that being the chorus and, in part, the rhythm. Apart from that the lyrics are original and in one way, probably bring a 70s song up to date and exposing it to a new audience. It’s their track whilst keeping elements of the original and for us not a bad track.

Rating: 4/5

Justice Crew // Que Sera

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This is the first time that we came across the Australian group who originally started out as a dance crew.

Que Sera won’t take long to get stuck in your head, particularly the chorus. For us, it feels a bit like the 90s. We hear tinges of then boy band 5ive but also, more recently reminded of Lady Gaga’s Alejandro. From what we understand, this is a new direction for the boys, so there will maybe be those who aren’t fans of it. For us, we like it & look forward to see where else the boys go

Rating 4/5

Meghan Trainor // All About That Bass

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In a world where body shape is everything, and where the PhotoShop is the answer to (almost) everything, surely no one would speak out about it?

Well, obviously Meghan Trainor didn’t get that memo as her debut release is all about loving yourself no matter if you fit the norm of not. But back to the song. It’s one of these that feels it samples a little bit from every genre but it all works seamlessly…oh and once it’s in your head you’ll probably find yourself singing along with the chorus.

One worries though that given this week it made UK chart history by entering the chart purely on airplay before being released, will this become one of those songs that is quickly hated across the land…

Rating: 3/5

Jessie Ware // Say You Love Me

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We last featured this artist back in 2012 but we recently stumbled upon her latest release, Say You Love Me.

Ware’s soulful voice rings clear in this heartfelt love song. Love song yes, but what we’d call double sided: it’s a more modern song but at the same time, it has almost a lullaby quality to it. All the elements here are in balance and work harmoniously, working in a gradual build to it’s climax before ending as it started.

A beautiful offering from the Brixton lass and worth a listen

Rating: 5/5

The Queen Extravaganza @ O2 ABC Glasgow, 18th September 2014

Just short of a year ago, the Queen Extravaganza came to Scotland on their first tour of the UK. Now, they were back in the same venue to rock Glasgow again.

Once again, the stage was covered by the large curtain baring the Queen coat of arms. In the build up (and while the audience was still filing into the venue) the instrumentals of Made In Heaven and The Prophet's Song played in the background. It wasn't long until the curtain dropped and it was straight into Tie Your Mother Down and Don't Stop Me Now, the audience joining in with the singing.

Lead singer Marc Martel welcomes the audience on what is a historic night for Scotland...with the Queen Extravaganza returning to Glasgow. Without missing a beat, the band head into a medley of tracks of Save Me, The Seven Seas of Rye, Killer Queen and Hammer to Fall. Marc leaves the stage allowing the remaining members Francois-Olivier Doyon (Bass), Nick Radcliffe (guitar), Tyler Warren (drums) & Brandon Ethridge (keyboards) to perform Dragon Attack with Warren on vocals.

Marc returns to the stage with guitar in hand for a performance of Crazy Little Thing Called Love before heading into a tale of starting this current UK tour on Freddie Mercury's birthday and how this next track was being dedicated to him. Cue a beautiful rendition of Love of My Life, again with the audience joining in and Martel encouraging it. How do you follow that? With the great A Kind of Magic of course.

Next is tracks from the album A Night At The Opera starting with the beauvaugard track Lazing on a Sunday Afternoon before once again giving the stage to drummer Tyler for the song I'm in Love With My Car. Before the next track, Marc admits that he first heard the next track back in the 90s thanks to a film. That film was Wayne's World and the song of course is Bohemian Rhapsody. After this fan favourite follows another in the guise of Under Pressure which see musical director and keyboardist Brandon Ethridge joining in vocal duties taking on David Bowie's sections of the track and it works well.

I Want It All & Another One Bites the Dust come up next before Tyler Warren gives one of his drums solo merging seamlessly into Ogre Battle & Stone Cold Crazy. I Want to Break Free is next up after this followed by Radio Ga Ga which involves a little bit of participation from the audience in a vocal challenge. Glasgow's so used to these that they probably have a gold medal in it. Before the next track, Marc pay tribute to Brian May and how he was the deep thinker of the group and that reflected in his song writing...And from there it's into Fat Bottomed Girls. And finally, it's Somebody to Love with more audience participation in the harmonies (and sounding beautiful too!)

Of course that's not the end of the show. No and appropriately, the next track for the show is The Show Must Go On. And to round it off with We Will Rock You & We Are the Champions.

This time around was different from their last outing in Glasgow. Gone is Jennifer Espinoza and Nick Radcliffe was in place of Brian Gresh so there was a bit of a difference in sound but to no detriment of the show that was offered. It's always a great night out and great tribute to the music that is Queen. And despite what else was happening elsewhere in Scotland, the only mandate being agreed on in the O2 ABC that night was the the Queen Extravaganza rocked.

Photos (c) Vhari Lannigan

Sharon Corr // Full Circle

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We heard this is a well known coffee shop and our first thought was the Corrs. Well we weren’t too wrong given that Sharon was one of them but has continued on a solo artist.

Full Circle is actually the second single from her latest release The Same Sun but probably what attracted us to it was how much that this sounded like an acoustic Corrs track. It’s wrong to compare it but it’s going to happen, but we loved how the track just kept at a regular pace with Sharon’s light celtic toned voice coming through beautifully like a shining sun.

Rating 4/5

Sheppard // Geronimo

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This is the first time we’ve came across the Brisbane group, but we’ve got a feeling that we might expect things from them if this track Geronimo.

Don’t let the folksy beginning put you off as it’s soon into a driving beat and just vibrates happiness. With the power more or less being left to the chorus sections, the verses balance this song with a bit more laid back feeling to it. It’s one of these songs that is going to have to smiling and probably singing and dancing along with before you’ve even finished the first listen through.

A perfect pick me up with the dark nights closing in.

Rating: 5/5

James Blunt // When I Find Love Again

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It’s been nearly a year since we’ve heard from Mr Blunt but after being on a bit of a world tour, he’s re-releasing last years album, Moon Landing as the Apollo Edition with the first single from it When I Find Love Again.

We can’t help thinking that this is a little bit of a mash up of previous songs Bonfire Hearts & Stay The Night as it’s a bit of an upbeat happy number and is likely to be one to get the fans singing along with the chorus and clapping along. Won’t look out of place with the tracks that are already on Moon Landing as it was a bit of a mix of everything.

Rating: 4/5

Train // Angel In Blue Jeans

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It’s been a while since we’ve heard anything from these guys but now we get to hear their latest single, Angel In Blue Jeans, taken from the forthcoming album, Bulletproof Picasso.

For us, it’s not quite there for us. The ‘ohhhhh’ at the start and found in the choruses are all to familiar in the last year and we soon found ourselves longing for the end of the song just to get away from it. The song itself minus that is not too different from previous releases, so even the casual listener will probably recognise it. But for us, it’s just lacking something of those songs Hey, Soul Sister and Drive By.

In fact, this could be seen as a country version of the latter.

Rating: 3/5

Katie Sutherland // Meddle With Hearts

 
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It's been a while since we've heard from Katie Sutherland since the release of her debut album, but now she's released her latest EP, Meddle With Hearts.

The first track we hear is a familiar track amongst fans and title track to her debut album, Canvas. The remaining tracks on this release are all new. With Her or Not starts off as a gentle guitar driven track slowly building with the inclusion of instruments
while the The Sorry Song reminds us of a little of Because I Do (previously released under her stage name Pearl & The Puppets) Another Counsellor is a pleasant number and slower than the rest of the tracks found here.

Overall, it's not too different from what those familiar with her previous works have heard as it's sort of working along the same lines as that. It is good to hear from her once again and hopefully this (along with whatever else she is planning) will tide people over until the release of her next album.

Rating: 4/5

B*Witched // The Stars Are Ours

 
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If you were growing up in the 90s then you’d probably have heard these four with his such as C’est La Vie, To You I Belong and Rollercoaster to name a few. A few years ago they reunited on ITV’s The Big Renunion and now, in 2014, they’ve released their first EP in 10 years.

The Stars Are Ours however feels as though it’s a mix of the 90s mashed with today. That is, there a moments in the song that it feels a little Madonna Ray of Light in delivery of the lyrics with a melody that feel just a tad too familiar to a certain Avicii track. Just feels a little too desperate to match the pass but stay constant too that makes this feel just slightly awkward.

Rating: 1/5

5 Seconds of Summer // Amnesia

 
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The latest release from the Aussie foursome is leaving us with Amnesia but more a feeling of deja vu.

Yes the last couple of tracks from them to be release were more rock and this one is more mellow showing another side to them, wanting to forget about a relationship that’s obviously meant something but now they’d rather forget. We can’t help thinking that musically, this could be this year Story of my Life hence the deja vu rather than amnesia.

Rating: 4/5

Various // A New World: Intimate Music from Final Fantasy

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For over a decade, Distant Worlds has been enchanting the world as it brings the music of Final Fantasy from the screens of all sizes to the stage. And now, a new interpretation is upon us with A New World: Intimate Music from Final Fantasy.

This is a live recording from the London premiere back in February. Bringing together 18 tracks from across the Final Fantasy series, here will be found a mix of well known themes (One Winged Angel from VII & Zanarkand from X to name but two) as well as bringing lesser known tracks. All the tracks have been given new arrangements for this event and, although not having the power and gusto that would be expected with a full orchestra, these renditions still have that something special and are suited for the intimate nature of this event.

Highly recommend a listen to this if you’ve ever heard Distant Worlds live or on CD or even just a fan of music of Final Fantasy

Rating: 5/5

Scarlette Fever // Helena EP

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Doesn’t seem that long since we had a release from Scarlette, but soon to be upon us is her latest EP, Helena.

First up we have the title track and we have to say, throughout the track, the one thought that went through our heads was, “Wonder what this would sound like sang by Kylie” as that was initially the first vibe we thought of got from this. 6ft Woman gives a bit of rock to the proceedings and, as we thought, the remix on the last release does do this track justice.

Piece Me Back Together is a beautiful slow number full of emotion. For us it’s a track we could see in the closing scenes of a drama and for closing an album off. Finally, the last track we have is P.S. I Hate You which brings back the rough side again. We previously heard this as a live acoustic from a session in L.A. and glad that it doesn’t seem that anything has changed in this studio version.

We’ve been fans for a few years now and for us, there’s a familiar feel but with that addition to sounding more mature. The last offering of the remix may not have been everyone’s cup of tea, but hopefully this will appeal to more general fans.

Rating: 4/5

Owl City // Beautiful Times Feat. Lindsey Stirling

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If we said Owl City to you, we reckon the first thing that jump to mind would be that track from a few years ago…yes you know the one, we are talking about Fireflies although we’ll give you credit if you also said Good Time, the duet with Carly Rae Jepsen.

It’s a darkish song lyrically although melodically it has a light and happy feeling to it but it unmistakably Owl City. Of course, it also features a blog favourite Lindsey Stirling but we'd like to have had her a wee bit more involved that it seems she is.

Other than that, it's not a bad wee number and perfect if you're looking for something a little different.

Rating: 4/5

John Barrowman // You Raise Me Up

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Apparently it's been 3 years since John Barrowman's last release (Tonight's The Night) and now he's back with his latest release, You Raise Me Up.

Opening with Christina Perri's A Thousand Years we immediately hit a snag with the opening verse as it's too proper (ever word pronounced instead of allowing to flow) but this seems soon rectified as the song progresses. From ballad to more upbeat with Doobie Brothers Listen To The Music and this makes for a more comfortable listen. All too soon though we're back to a ballad in the form of Raise Me Up before heading into Demi Lovato's Skyscrapper which we can't make our mind up what side of the tempo is wrong, the lyrics or the melody.

Barry Manilow's Mandy is next and for fans, they already that John can deliver this as he's previously performed it live on tour. Back to upbeat track with That's Just The Way It Is (we originally know it done by Celine Dion) but all too soon we're back to ballads with Simon and Garfunkel's classic Bridge Over Troubled Water (beautifully performed we might say) and Goodbye My Friend

The Broadway classic This Is The Moment is up next and proves no difficulty for Barrowman, given his theatrical background. Back to an upbeat track with a cover of Michael Buble's Hollywood before finally closing with a classic Scottish track Loch Lomand although we do have mixed feelings over it.

Overall, we feel that there's a bit of hit and miss here with the track selection. Some work well while other just seem not to suit at all and whether this is just down to the arrangements or the songs themselves is difficult to say. For the adoring fans out there, they will probably enjoy. For us, we think the albums of cover is that comfortable jacket that's getting a little frayed. We'd love to see something a little different...like an album of original material. We'll even settle for an EP for starters.

Rating: 3/5

Film Review: Mrs Brown’s Boys D’Movie

It's been a hit on the stage. It's been a hit on the small screen. So can D'movie do the same on the big screen?

The film revolves around Mrs Brown discovering what unpaid taxes on her stall and ultimately, becoming the face of a campaign to save the Moore Street market. But through this, a dark secret from Agnes Brown's past will rear it's head...

The film itself works 50/50. The TV show works as it's filmed in front of a live audience but it's a little odd not to hear laughter in the film. There's a few moments in the where obvious mistakes have been made and left in, which sort of takes you out of the film.. Although there is plenty of laughable moments, the jokes in the film do seem to be a little tamer compared to what we're used to. We found that we were laughing at some points where others weren't but we guess that all comes down you your sense of humour

We think this could have been much more but that there is something missing here that seems to have been lost in translation from stage and small screen to the big one. It's still enjoyable but if you've any doubts, maybe wait until it comes out on DVD.

Rating: 3/5

Scarlette Fever // Return of the Fever

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We sort of kept an eye on this young lady for the past few years since seeing her live supporting Mike & The Mechanics and now her latest release comes in the form of an EP titled Return of the Fever.

Although 4 tracks, there is actually only 3 songs as one of the songs, Where’s The Fun?, actually features twice. Why? Because this isn’t probably what you expected. This is actually remixes of tracks from her forthcoming album (at last check titled, Attack of the 6ft Woman…we think) and these tracks are 6ft Woman, P.S. I Hate You and already mentioned Where’s The Fun. What we’ve always loved is that the remixes of Scarlette’s songs always seems to be sympathetic to the original track (you can check out the originals on Soundcloud in case you want to compare) instead of making them something that they aren’t.

If you’re needing something to tide you over to the release (come on Scarlette, we’re waiting!) this might be up your street.But if you prefer you music un-remixed, you’re going to have a wait a little longer.

Rating: 4/5

p.s. you can check other remixes of her previous tracks also on her Soundcloud page

Pixie Lott // Lay Me Down

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It’s been a while since we’ve heard anything from Miss Lott but now she’s back with her latest offering Lay Me Down

You might recognise part of it given that it’s currently being used in the advertising campaign for Ballista hair sprays & dry shampoos (which, coincidently, features Pixie promoting their products. 10 points to the marketing/promotional team.) The song itself reminds us a little of her first album and in fact her debut single Mama Do but with a mix of her last album.

It’s good enough to make you forget about that monstrosity that was Nasty…

Rating: 4/5

The Vamps // Somebody To You Feat. Demi Lovato

 
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We keep coming back to this 4 piece boy band in hope of hearing something that originally made us love these guys. But to be honest, we think this is one of those times that we’re going to have to sit on the rather prickly fence.

We can’t help thinking that this would be the Pop child of The Lumineers Hey Ho and One Direction’s Story Of My Life but instead of the familiar Hey Ho they’ve replaced it with Yeah You. We’d really have loved if Lovato’s verse had been a solo effort instead of being joined in backing vocals by one of the guys and maybe even getting her to have the preceding chorus to herself as well.

Besides this small sticking point on vocals, it is one of those songs that we think is probably going to get stuck in your head from the first listen and be that one song you can help joining in the chorus no matter how hard you try to fight it. It’s possibly going to be filed under ‘Songs that will be played continuously over the coming months’ and possibly even ‘Guilty Pleasure’

Rating: 3/5

Charlotte Jaconelli // Solitaire

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Recognise the name? You’re probably more used to seeing it as part of Jonathan & Charlotte but late last year, the pair went their separate ways due to creative differences. So what is Charlotte’s debut album like?

Opening with the ballad Feels Like Love, we hear what sounds more like a pop vocal with a classical edge. Title track Solitaire is next and is more classical in feeling before we head straight into complete classical mode with Pie Jesu.

I know Him So Well (from the musical Chess) is next and comes in the form of a duet with West End star Kerry Ellis which, for the most part works well. Off to the movies now with When Somebody Loved Me (from the Disney Pixar classic, Toy Story 2) before the classic Richard Marx track Right Here Waiting For You, again delivered with that pop but classical edge voice.

Lascia ch’io pianga is another classical track that showcases Jaconelli’s voice before heading back to the musicals with another duet, this time Daniel Koek in the form of All I Ask Of You and this time works well for the entirety of the track.

Staying with the musicals, we head off to Les Miserables for On My Own but seems sang ‘too proper’ for it to sound natural, however this proper voice works for the next track in this list which is I Dreamt I Dwelt in Marble Halls and flows better. Finally the album closes with I Could Have Danced All Night but it leaves you feeling like there should be another track after this. Maybe swap the last two tracks for a more natural ending?

We had a feeling given the last release with Jonathan, Perhaps Love that there was a difference in direction with the pair, and while it’s sad to them split, this now give them the chance to flourish. It’s a mixed bag of songs which is obviously leaving Jaconelli open to experiment and find her niche. Our only complaint is something we picked up on the last time and that is the over pronunciation of words which makes the flow in certain songs feel unnatural. It feels as if at times she is trying too hard, almost like a need to say ‘I can do this on my own’.

Should there be a second solo album, we really hope that she can find a focus on what she’d rather be doing. This shows she can do a variety but we suspect that she also needs a variety of vocals to match the variety of tracks

Rating: 3/5

5 Seconds of Summer // Don’t Stop

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No, 5 Seconds of Summer is not a reference to the usual British Summer, but are in fact an group from Australia.

Don’t Stop is actually their second international release (She’s So Perfect was the first) and for the most part is a great little pop rock number. The issue is after a few listens there’s not much to hear and it starts to wear a little thin. It’s a shame too because we think that they’ve got potential. With their album due out at the end of the month, time will only tell.

Rating: 3/5

Gareth Malone // Voices

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We’d be surprised if anyone hadn’t heard of Gareth Malone. He’s already had a no.1 thanks to the Military Wives, has got workplaces singing together and now he brings a new choir of young talented people together to produce Voices.

This collection of songs bring a number of modern tracks (Alicia Key’s Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart, Bon Ivor’s Calgary & Lana Del Ray’s Video Games to name a few),some older tracks (Erasure’s A Little Respect, The Moody Blue’s Night’s In White Satin & Fleetwood Mac’s Go You Own Way) and some more choral tracks (Now Sleeps The Crimson Petal on the standard with the addition of O Magnum Mysterium & Passion Chorale on the deluxe version).

Many of these tracks do work well in a choral arrangement though the version of Death Grip’s Guillotine may lead to feelings of sea sickness while Go Your Own Way shows potential but seems to get lost along the way. It’s an interesting take on the genre but at the same time, it shows not everything works. It’s a shame too, as we were really taken with the live EP from the Supperclub last year (available on Amazon) but this doesn’t seem to capture what you hear live.

If it was a school report it would probably read, shows potential but could do better

Rating: 3/5

Cheryl Cole // Crazy Stupid Love

 
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Has it been 2 years since Cheryl’s last solo release? No matter how long it’s been, she’s back and previewing her latest single, Crazy Stupid Love featuring Tinie Tempah.

Now, we admit that her previous releases haven’t rated highly with us but we’re always willing to give another chance. Sadly though, this song is doing nothing for us.It feels like a mish mash of things in the hope that it works. We’re really struggling to understand the whole point of the Sax solo. It just feels sort of out of place. And Tinie’s rap section…it just about saves this from completely drowning.

That said, we do recommend checking out the WestFunk & Steve Smart remix of the track which, in our opinion, is the better of the two.

Is it likely to do anything? Maybe Maybe not. But with it not being released until next month, is it possible that people will be driven crazy stupid by the time it comes around?

Rating: 2/5

Peter Hollens // The Parting Glass

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We were always a little bit disappointed that the last song featured on Assasin’s Creed 4: Black Flag didn’t turn up on any of the soundtracks (some of the sea shanties turned up on their own collection!) and we never knew the name of the track either.

It seems that it’s quite common track actually. But now, thanks to the wonderful talent that is Peter Hollens, the song is brought to life once again with his multi layered vocal approach. This approach gives it a sort of haunting feeling before midway there’s a bit of a bounce. But don’t let this fool you as it soon returns to what we heard at the start.

A beautiful little number…there’s nothing else we can say!

Rating:5/5

Emmelie de Forest // Rainmaker

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Has it really been a year since Emmelie de Forest won the Eurovision with her song Only Teardrops? Apparently so. And Rainmaker, the first new music to be heard since the release of her album, last year, was made this year’s official Eurovision theme.

It carries a familiar celtic/tribal feel to it, so not a million miles away from what we’ve heard before and it won’t be long until the way oh way oh way gets stuck in your head and your singing along with it. It’s a fairly safe song and probably best given a) given the length of time and b) what the song was for. The song itself is likely to appeal to those already familiar with her work but will be interesting to see where she goes from here

Rating: 4/5

Foxes // Holding Onto Heaven

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Bright melodies, strings and voice similar to Florance (of & the Machine) make the 3rd single from British singer Foxes

It’s got a an old school feel to it without being old school. It makes for easy listening and you’ll probably find yourself joining in with the chorus, even if it is just to sing a long with the ‘Oooohhhh’s.

Our own quibble is that 3 songs in, we’re starting to feel very familiar with and seem to be hearing the same thing with just a few tweaks. Question on our mind is, can she keep this up?

Rating: 4/5

Molly // Children Of The Universe

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Tomorrow’s the Eurovision Song Contest in Copenhagen and this year’s representative for the UK is Molly with her song Children Of The Universe

It’s a change of tact this year as the BBC have gone with a unknown rather than a well known singer (Bonnie Tyler, Englebert Humperdink & Blue from the past few years) with a song specifically written for the contest. The song itself is more in tune with what is present at the moment with Molly providing a strong vocal performance.

Will we see the UK in the top 10 tomorrow? Only time will tell

Rating: 4/5

Shakira // Shakira

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Deluxe
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Has it really been 4 years since Shakira’s last album, Sale El Sol? Seems a bit longer to be honest but we need not wait any longer as her new album, simply titled Shakira, is now here for our listening pleasure.

Before we start, we should point out that in regards to track listing, the physical & download have the same tracks just in a slightly different order but for the purpose of this review, we’ll be referring to deluxe download.

Opening with a samba beat is Dare (La La La) that feels like it’s a little bit of everything from Shakira’s past. Next it’s the first single from the release in the form of Can’t Remember To Forget You featuring Rihanna whilst Empire brings a mix of soft notes flowing into big powerful ones in the chorus.

You Don’t Care About Me takes a dark turn with a tale of a toxic and unreciprocated love. But from the dark it’s time to get down with a wee bit of reggae in Cut Me Deep featuring MAGIC! before we hit the rock with a Avril Lavigne sounding track in the form of Spotlight

A beautiful guitar driven track comes in the form of Broken Record before we go a little country along side fellow The Voice judge Blake Shelton with Medicine which proves to a great combination. Continuing with the guitar is on the beautiful ballad 23 with a cheeky little appearance from Shakira’s baby at the end.
And to finish this trio of guitar tracks is The One Thing.

On the standard release, the last three tracks are in Spanish; Nunca Me Acuerdo De Olvidarte (Can’t Remember To Forget You), Loca Por Ti & La La La

On the deluxe side of things, there are an additional three tracks starting with Chasing Shadows which reminds us a little of something that the Eurthymics would release while That Way is a beautiful piano driven ballad. Finally we have….wait for it….yes, another version of La La La this time subtitled Brasil 2014 and featuring Carlinhos Brown and of course is her offering for the up coming World Cup. The question for this track is what version came first? The Spanish, the English or the World Cup version….

Shakira herself describes this as an album of going back to her roots but there is still the chance to hear a sound that has run through many of her past works. Hopefully this album may be more accessible than Sale El Sol (as that was predominantly Spanish vocals) and we feel that there is a little something for everyone here. Will be interesting to see where things go from here.

Rating: 4/5

Bentley Jones // Evolve

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So it been nearly 6 months since we last heard anything from Mr Jones on the music front (the last being The Closing Of The Year) but now he’s back and ready to present his latest offering in the form of Evolve.

The song is all about growing up and moving on, something given his history seems to fit. It also feels much more upbeat than some previous releases although with what feels like serious undertones.

We’re quite excited by this and are looking forward to hearing what Bentley is going to be offering come the release of his next album to see what else he’s going offer now he’s evolved.

Rating: 5/5

East40 // Let The Games Begin (Glasgow’s Children’s 2014 Anthem for UNICEF)

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For 11 days at the end of July and beginning of August this, Glasgow will host it’s biggest party in the form of the 20th Commonwealth Games.And for the first time in the Games history, Glasgow 2014 are partnering up with UNICEF to make sure that it’s not just the atheletes who come first, but also the poorest & excluded children do too

Let The Games Begin features children from St. Mungo’s Learning Community in a song penned by Jonathan Carr and Scott Hutchison (Frightened Rabbit) in a song that captures the whole spirit of the games and not only for the children but for everyone who has or has yet to be involved. Our hearts are stolen near the end of the track by probably the youngest members of the choir.

And with 76p from each download going to UNICEF, what better excuse do you need to get in the mood for the Games?

Rating: 5/5

Lindsey Stirling // Shatter Me

 
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It doesn’t seem that long since the release of Lindsey Stirling’s self titled debut but now she’s back with the follow up album, Shatter Me. So what’s in store with it?

Opening with the first single Beyond The Veil, with it very unassuming intro, we’re soon back to the familiar sounds of Stirling’s work. Mirror Haus. is another which builds into a roaring track whilst V-Pop at first seems to be a bit of sample (of a dance related track we can’t remember) but keeps the pace set by the previous tracks.

A first for Stirling’s solo work is a collaboration with Lzzy Hale (of Halestorm fame) who provides vocals on Shatter Me on what proves to be a stellar match. Heist has the tempo and emotion of one to open with but then there are moments of almost calm before the heist is back on. Roundtable Rival reminds us a little bit like a song from the shows Riverdance or Lord of the Dance whilst Night Vision has a sort of mid-tempo.

Take Flight is this albums Song of the Caged Bird though with a bit more edge as Acendance continues with the edge. We Are Giants feats vocal talents of Dia Frampton, which to us feels a bit like a tame Shatter Me. Swag just has plenty of that with a great little hip hop beat before coming to an end with Master Of Tides which does have a bit of a nautical feel to it.

At least, that is where it would end unless you buy the deluxe version which has three bonus tracks Eclipse (which implies a feeling of watching such an event), Sun Skip (which reminds us of the theme song from the Japanese animated film Paprika) before ending on an orchestrated version of Take Flight.

Overall it’s not a bad little album. It has a bit more edge than her debut and it was hard to see where Stirling would go with this album after the success of her debut. This album is a first in which her solo works involved lyrics. It’s one of few albums in recent years that we’ve managed to listen from start to finish without skipping. The question is: where does Lindsey Stirling go next?

Rating: 5/5

New Music Friday: Steve Appleton

If you were here on Monday this week, you’ll have seen us mentioning this singer/songwriter as he supported Sandi Thom on her recent UK tour. To us he sounds a bit like Paolo Nutini & Jason Mraz. Have a look at the videos below and have a listen for yourselves

Official Site

Ella Henderson // Ghost

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Recognise the name? Maybe not so let us refresh your memory by telling you that Ella was a contestant on the 2012 X Factor in the UK, managing to survive to week 7 of the live shows. Now nearly two years on, she’s ready to show what she’s been up to and that first showing comes in the form of Ghost.

The song itself has a bit of an Adele meets Leona Lewis vocal sound to it, but it good little upbeat number and one that seems well delivered. Hopefully one that radio will agree with and that people will see how far she appears to have come since the TV reality show.

Rating: 4/5

Christina Perri // Human

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So it’s been a while since we last checked in with Christina Perri although we did check out A Thousand Years before it & the debut single Jar Of Hearts became so covered! But now she’s back and the first offering from her new album is Human

The song begins with gentle lulling vocals with the melody seemingly building too, only to drop away at the first chorus to allow Perri’s vocals to shine through. But after what can be deemed a vulnerable moment, the music returns for the rest of the track, with what seems a growing confidence in her vocals as the song continues.

We have to admit that this is quite taken with the track it does seem that Perri’s vocals have come some way from our first meeting. It’s a heartfelt yet powerful track and one that many can probably relate to. After all, we are only Human

Rating: 4/5

Sandi Thom @ Howden Park Centre, Livingston 17th April 2014

It’s been just over a year & half since Sandi Thom last toured the UK but that was with a full band. This time around it’s just Thom being a one (wo)man band playing all bar the kitchen sink (maybe she plays this too, we’re not quite sure but wouldn’t be surprised) in a evening of stories and songs performed as they haven’t been heard before.

Before Thom was support act Steve Appleton who was also was his own band, this time though with a little help from a loop pedal. He worked through a set of his own music including Diamonds & Valantina and admitted that he had been trying new material on the Scottish audiences. After a small interval it was time for the main act.

Opening the set with two tracks from the latest album, Help Me & Stormy Weather, it’s clear that this isn’t what has gone before, with the songs being performed in what can only be described as new arrangements bringing a new feeling to them. Thom welcomes everyone to the show before heading into a tale of heading to London to ‘live the dream’ and about the drunk in the local pub who could belt out anything that was requested and that this was the inspiration was the next track, The Human Jukebox.

It’s a jump to the third album, Merchants & Thieves for the next track, Belly Of The Blues before back tracking to The Pink & The Lily for The Shape I’m In (a song inspired by the events of her first visit to LA where after a bit of a wild night with the Scottish Rugby Team, she spent the night on the street). It’s back to the present album for the next track, Buffy Sainte-Marie’s The Big Ones Get Away a song which, on the album, she performed with the lady herself.

Runaway Train provides an opportunity for a little audience participation in a call and response (something the Scots audiences usually can’t resist taking part in). A reminisce of her days in the band The Residents, it time for a cover track, one frequently performed as part of this group. It comes in the form of the Fleetwood Mac track, Landslide. 

Time to head back to the debut album for the next track in the from of What If I’m Right before we get the title track of the current studio album, Flesh & Blood. Things slow down again for My Ungrateful Heart from The Pink & The Lily before it time for I Wish I Was A Punk Rocker (With Flowers In My Hair) in which she plays the harmonica, strums the guitar & stamps her feet all at the same time. A short break and she comes back for one more track in the form of When Horsepower Meant What It Said.

As said at the start, this was not the usual Sandi Thom concert. The stripped back approach seemed to work with tracks from all 4 studio albums being given a new working bringing them a new life. The venue seemed to be perfect for what very quickly felt like a very intimate experience between artist & audience. The mix of tracks showcased that Sandi’s voice could do quite & tender but also big & powerful but also meant that there was most likely something for everyone in the set whilst showing how far she’s come since she was first presented to us. A different night out and one that we would like to see again.

Photos: © Vhari Lannigan

Sandi Thom
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Steve Appleton
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