MIXTAPE
Ghost Stories
Coldplay
(reviewed 20.05.14)
Turn Blue
The Black Keys
(reviewed 13.05.14)
Turn Blue is The Black Keys eighth studio album, believe it or not. It was released on May 9th this year and has very positive itunes ratings.
After such a huge number of previous albums, I wasn't sure what to expect. Would they stick to what seemed to be working for them with El Camino, which was their previous album, or swing in the opposite direction, like is seemingly the trend at the moment.
Spoiler: They stuck to safe.
It's not a bad thing. The albums quite good actually. It's a bit more power ballard-y than the last, and the songs are a bit more mellow but there are definietly some winners. It doesn't quite had the drive and kick that El Camino had, but it's definitely not a miss.
If anything I'd call this a filler album. It's good. There are parts you really like. But I'm hoping it will lead up to something crazy.
In saying that there are some true to form, really nice typical garage soul rock tunes that the Keys have been so well known for.
Black Keys, I'm waiting for my 180. Surprise me next time.
★★★
Ghost Stories was released on May 16. It is Coldplay's sixth studio album.
It's very different to the rest. It actually surprised me how different. I'm used to a few serenading Coldplay songs, for sure, like 'Yellow', 'The Scientist' and 'Lost'. But it seems this album is totally full of them. There's no 'Viva La Vida' or 'Princess Of China' here. The most upbeat song is 'A Sky Full Of Stars', which almost equivalent to 'Clock's' in energy. There's even a song that sounds a bit like Imogen Heap's 'Hide and Seek'.
This album seems a lot more low key than the rest. It gives me a feeling like I'm floating in space, it's very connected - everything just kind of flows into each other. I would imagine it's the kind of music that's played in a massage parlour or a yoga studio. It's very relaxing.
And of course, another plus side of the stripped down effect is hearing more of Chris Martins beautiful harmonies. If that's what you're after this album does not disappoint. Full to the brim, in fact.
If you're looking for new dance tracks, this albums probably not for you. But there are some really lovely songs that are just so calming, it's hard not to like them. I would have enjoyed to hear a few more upbeat ones, but considering this is an album of love and loss, I think they've done a pretty good job.
★★★
ALBUM REVIEWS 2014.
Silence / Win
Kim Churchill
(reviewed 03.06.14)
I had heard of Kim Churchill before, in face I've seen him live, back a few years ago at Caloundra when I had no idea who he was, but was simply mesermised by his voice. I remember we bought his little mini album immediately after and to this day it is still constantly played. So it was with lots of excitement that I listened to his latest album Silence/Win which was realised on the 23rd of May 2014.
Kim has a really interesting voice. His tracks are part folk, part soul and park rock - so quite a mix. He manages to capture a lot of emotions throughout his music, reflecting the land and moods of the people - not unlike Xavier Rudd in fact. He has beautiful subtle harmonies and makes the kind of music you expect to hear when a character in a movie is on a roadtrip through a forest.
My favourite thing about this album though, is the building melodies. It's probably my weakness in music, and boy oh boy does he deliver. His songs start simple, maybe just voice and guitar, perhaps with one or two other soft sounds. He slowly builds and builds, adding more instruments which ends up with this gorgeous full, rich sound. It's fantastic.
I liked this album a lot, it had a good mix of slow and fast and the guitar sinks right down to your core. Good job Kim, you didn't let me down.
★★★★
x
Ed Sheeran
(reviewed 24.06.14)
Ed Sheeran is a beloved songbird of our generation. His new album, x came out only a few days ago, on the 20th of June, however has already gone viral. On the morning it came out, I saw more than three instagram posts dedicated to his brilliance and this album. Needless to say I was intrigued.
And I'm not going to lie, I really just expected to be serenaded the entire time with sad beautiful love songs. I was pleasently surprised actually, what started as simple guitar melodies and harmonies turned into some funky grooves.
As a side note, if you were holding out for sad beautiful love songs, you won't be disappointed.
The album covers a fair range of emotions and, to an extent, styles of music. Of course there are the beautiful sweet ballards, but there are also a few spoken rap type tracks, like a lot of his older stuff. So kudos to him for variety.
I liked this album, and would definitely recommend a listen. I was never Ed's biggest fan - that being said it's not like I hated him or anything, I just never really got into the hype he caused, but I definitely can feel myself getting into this.
★★★
Jersey Boys
Music from the Musical
(reviewed 01.07.14)
Jersey Boys is the smash broadway hit that Clint Eastwood has turned into a motion picture. When I heard Clint Eastwood was producing it, I literally took a double take, but then I watched the trailer and I was completely on board. I've seen the music, we talked about it on the show a few years ago when it came to Brisbane, but the film looks like it's made exactly how the musical is set out which makes me very excited.
Jersey Boys is the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The soundtrack was released on the 20th of June, with the film being released in Australia on the 3rd of July.
It features a whopping 25 tracks, and acts almost like a greatest hits album for the band. What's really interesting is that like most musical soundtracks, the stars sing covers of the tracks, there is also a lot of originals chucked in there too, John Lloyd Young, who plays Frankie Valli, does a lot of the covers and it's a spitting sound for Frankie himself.
If you like The Four Seasons or you're a fan of the musical, I would definitely recommend this album. It fufills all my 60's needs for this week and makes me even more excited for the movie.
★★★★
Bombs Away
Sheppard
(reviewed 22.07.14)
Lots of people have been waiting very patiently for this album, but finally Bombs Away, the debut album from Sheppard is here. We've featured Sheppard a bit this year and last, when they first came to fame with 'Let Me Down Easy', and keeping up with their journey from then on. It's really great to see a Brissie band doing so well.
Bombs Away is scattered with familiar tracks, of course there is 'Let Me Down Easy' and 'Geronimo' but there are also tracks such as 'These People', 'Smile' and 'Halfway to Hell' that I recognised because they had played them at various performances, so it's nice putting a name to those tunes.
I must admit, I was a little disappointed that 'Hold My Tongue' and 'Flying Away' weren't on this album as in my opinion they are some of their best songs, but I do understand that this was an opportunity to showcase new hits.
I've always found Sheppard really likeable and listenable, and this album is no exception. The songs are mostly all upbeat and catchy and focus on a spread of common themes which means that there is bound to be one song even slightly relatable to you.
Their lyrics are a little cliche sometimes, but their tracks have such a contagious groove it's hard not to tap your feet. Warning for parents though, there are a few explicit songs, so if you're thinking of buying the album for your kids just take that into consideration.
I think Sheppard have a really good thing going for them and I'm looking forward to see what comes next.
★★★★
1000 Forms Of Fear
Sia
(reviewed 29.07.14)
1000 Forms Of Fear is Sia's 6th studio album and was released on July 4th this year. It's done really well jumping the charts all around the world.
You may not know this, but Sia has actually written a fair few hits for other people. She has contributed to songs sung artists such as Shakira, Kylie, Katy Perry, Rita Ora, Christina Aguilera and even wrote Rihanna's smash hit 'Diamonds'. She's also done a lot of work covering songs for different televsion show soundtracks, as well as some of her own being used for massive businesses marketing campaigns and even the olympics.
This album has some ups and some downs but Sia's range is really what took it for me, it's incredible. Most of the songs tend to be a bit more on the upbeat side, there are a few slower tracks but even those aren't really that stripped back.
She does a really good job of making the songs feel like their lyrics. In 'Elastic Heart' it's like you can feel an elastic band been flicked and pulled and in 'Cellophane' you can actually hear the crinkles if you listen really hard.
It's easy to see how Sia has become such a rising star. I know she's been around for quite a while, but apart from a few minor hits here and there, she's never really gotten the recognition she deserved. She has such a strange, strong, but likeable voice - she almost has that Adele type of sound, in a quirky kind of way.
In saying this I had a my hopes a bit too high for 1000 Forms Of Fear. I think that Chandelier may be the only really bit hit we hear from this album, which is a shame because she is so talented. I truely hope I'm wrong.
★★★
Angus And Julia Stone
Angus And Julia Stone
(reviewed 05.08.14)
This week I chose to review the deluxe version of Angus and Julia Stone's self titled third studio album together. Originally it wasn't looking likely we'd see another Angus and Julia album anytime in the near future, but that all changed when legendary American producer Rick Rubin stepped into the scene and said he wanted to record with them. If you haven't heard of Rick Rubin you'd definitely be familiar with his works, he founded Def Jam records and has produced countless albums since the early 1980's, holding no less than seven grammy awards including one for Adele's 21. So you can kind of see why the Stone siblings were on board with him.
The different between this deluxe edition and the ordinary one is really just more tracks. Both are available on itunes, but you really only need the deluxe if you're a die hard fan.
I found this album seemed a lot more faster paced than their last. Everything is still really low key, and has that acoustic folk sound, but this album just seems to have a different vibe. And I am totally on board, I've always enjoyed Angus and Julia but this album really mixes things up a bit, and I've found myself getting more into this album than their last because it has that variation.
Don't worry though if you're looking for the A and J sounds we've come to love you won't be disappointed. You still get those soul chilling tones and a good mix of Julia based vocal songs and Angus based vocal songs.
What I thought was particuarly interesting though was how Angus takes on more of that traditional Aussie folk sound (think Paul Kelly-esque) In 'Get Home'. Maybe it's the fact that the song is slightly more upbeat than their traditional type of songs. Whatever the reason, it works.
As per usual, the brother-sister duo compliment each other perfectly and this album really demonstrates their talent and why they have played such an influential part in the Australian music scene.
This album was definitely worth the reunion.
★★★★
Vessel (EP)
Kite String Tangle
(reviewed 13.08.14)
The Kite String Tangle is a solo project by artist Danny Harley, focusing on mostly alternative electronic soul kinds of sounds. He first came into fame circa 2013 when he won a competition to play at Falls Festival, and since then has gained quite a considerable fan base.
Vessel is the debut EP from Harley and consists of six tracks. It was released on August 8th 2014. 'Arcadia' is by far the most popular by far, but the album also includes his first big hit 'Given The Chance' which is always a good thing.
The tracks all have that element of dance-y electronia but then switch to this low-key chilled out melodies. Not unlike Asgeir's beautiful vocals, The Kite String Tangle manages to pull these fanastic lines in the middle of the tracks that simply make you melt.
In saying that, the tracks are quite similar sounding. Arcadia and Given The Chance are definitely the memorable stand outs. However, he definitely uses the combination of alt-electronic sounds and flowing melodies to his advantage, it does make some great sounds.
The result of these mixes of elements of music make you feel as though you're floating when you listen to some of these tracks, granted a few are a little more upbeat. I'm always on board with Brisbane artists, so it'll be interesting to follow The Kite String Tangle and see what Harley has instore for us in the future.
★★★
Evergreen
Broods
(reviewed 27.08.14)
New Zealand is on a hot streak right now, first Kimbra, then Lorde and now brother and sister duo, Broods. Evergreen is their debut full length album and was released August 22nd 2014. And it seems like their whirlwind to fame is on the up and up, even though it was only released a few days ago it already has stellar itunes reviews.
They do well to mix the ballard and dance genres pretty perfectly. Theres a soft synth electronia backing and some really loose drum loops.
One thing I really liked about this album was the hooks. Most choruses offer up something different to their chorus which is really what you want to hear in this type of music.
They set a different mood with each song which is excellent. You can almost listen to any song and go 'hey this reminds me of when...' etc. etc. They reminded me a lot of Chrvches, with the lead singers light breathy harmonies and laid back dance tempos.
The album is super versatile, you can pretty much pump up or tune down any of the tracks if you wanted a different feel. It's a smart move, not only for variety, but also for marketability.
I see good things ahead for Broods. I really liked this album and I think it will do quite well, even if it's only in its own niche musical genre (although I hope I hear some tracks bursting out onto mainstream radio soon).
★★★★
Bittersweet was released on the 29th of August this year. I was a bit sceptical when I chose this album because I wasn't sure it was my cup of tea. I looked at the song titles and I thought they looked a bit cliche. Let's just say I wasn't itching to get into it.
But boy oh Boy Kasey you made me look like a fool.
The variety is amazing. It's almost like a rollercoaster ride, you go from a hoedown to a serenade to a rock toe tapping number, it's crazy.
The banjo is awesome and works well throughout the entire album. The heavy country rock rhythms are excellent and the melodies are so catchy.
The lyrics do get a bit so so every so often but what I really liked was the classic country rhymes and imagery littered throughout all of Bittersweet and it's just great. That's probably how I'd describe this album. Just great.
There is even a track with Bernad Fanning of Powderfinger chucked in there for a bit of colour. Not that it really needs it.
I would say even if you don't really like country you'll probably like this album. It's really well mixed and has a whole bunch of relatable themes. It's an album for the young and old, and definitely worth a listen to.
★★★★
Bittersweet
Kasey Chambers
(reviewed 03.09.14)
Dream Your Life Away was released on the 5th of September and contains 13 tracks. This is his debut full length album.
What I got immediately is some really strong Josh Pyke, Xavier Rudd, Bernard Fanning and Angus Stone vibes. Just imagine mixing all of those artists together. That's what I felt like I was hearing.
The album contains the widely praised 'Riptide' and a couple of others you may have heard here and there like 'Mess Is Mine'.
There is a heavy emphasis on the percussion beats and accompanying harmonies. Together they make really earthy tones, and flatter the vocals. A common trend is starting off with a basic, simple, guitar riff and vocal melody and building up the instrumentation as we journey further into the chorus. It doesn't happen in every song, but it is evident in a lot of them.
Dream Your Life Away is full of low key songs which make me feel like I'm sitting at a beach on a lazy late afternoon, just watching the waves roll in. Which to be fair, isn't a bad image at all.
The only criticism I'd have would be that the tracks are so smooth and freely flowing that I kind of forgot where one started and the other finished. But that can be a good thing, especially for this album. There were definitely some stand out tracks though.
All in all, I'd say I got exactly what I expected from a Vance Joy album. It met my expectations, and while I wouldn't necessarily listen to every track again, there are definitely some that I think will be regulars in my mixes.
★★★
Dream Your Life Away
Vance Joy
(reviewed 10.09.14)
Songs of Innocence was released on the 9th of September, and has a solid 11 tracks. It is U2's thirteenth album if you can believe it. And it is totally free.
So how do you get this mysterious free U2 album I hear you ask? Well chances are you already have it. It was an iTunes only album, and in an effort, probably to make people praise the gods of Apple, is available to anyone and everyone who has an iTunes account. In fact, iTunes went as far as to download it automatically to everyones account. So really you don't need to do anything. It's probably already there.
This move by iTunes has come under controversy with people who don't like U2 finding this full album already synced and added to their phones, mp3's and tablets. So on the surface it might seem like a really nice idea, but if you're not a U2 fan, you've drawn the short straw.
But what of the actual music? Well it contains a fair few tributes, one to Joey Ramone, another to Bono's mother. The name are a bit cliche. It's definitely U2, but it's like it's missing something. The tracks don't seem completely full.
It just doesn't sound very U2. And not in a good way. It just sounds same old same old. There are no big kicks. No big shining moments. It's like they're trying too hard. Or some hater said to the band, 'look if you don't release something you're going to become irrelevant', and they took that advice a bit too much to heart. Where is Bono's passion? Where is the crazy The Edge guitar riffs? Where is my heart thumping drum loops? These are the questions that I didn't get an answer to in Songs of Innocence.
But hey, don't just go from what I say. Go listen to the album yourself. After all, you do have it, whether you like it or not.
★
Songs of Innocence
U2
(reviewed 17.09.14)
There There
Megan Washington
(reviewed 24.09.14)
There There came out on the 12th of September this year. It is Megan Washington's 3rd studio album. And fun fact, if you didn't already know, Washington is a Brisbane girl, she studied music at QUT and the Queensland Conservatorium.
On first glance, I was impressed. This is without even listening to a track, I saw the album artwork which is two sketches of Washington's face, and the track names all seemed enticing. Even the title of the album, "There There" seems awfully comforting.
Washington's signature soothing harmonious vocals are again scattered throughout this album. Her talent shines, in both her melodic sounds and her lyrical value. The tracks all feel like they're going somewhere, and she's made really good use of a variety of instruments; I heard some strings, heaps of different types of percussion, simple piano, as well as the basic rock instruments.
There is some great variation on this album. The track 'Who Are You' has some fantastic but incredibly subtle drum rhythms just as the chorus builds. There are ballads and some sweet toe tappers. Her transitions are flawless and they all bring something a bit different to the table.
Overall, I liked There There but I can definitely pick some favourites. Washington is so talented and this album didn't disappoint. All I'd really add was a standout upbeat jam and I would have been totally hooked. I'm a big fan and would absolutely listen to it again, but I think out of this and her previous albums I would probably choose to play them on repeat rather than this one.
★★★
This Is All Yours was released September 19th 2014, by English band alt-J. It is their second album, and first after the departure of guitarist Gwil Sainsbury.
This is a strange album. You as the listener get constantly shifted through these eerie, unconnected sounds, into nostalgic acoustics with classical folk ballad elements. It's an interesting experience.
The album is a journey. No but literally. It begins with a track titled intro, which really gives you the vibe of the album - that is, everything. You should expect everything and anything.
It moves through tracks with a whole bunch of interesting titles. In fact, while the album artwork is bright and enticing, it was the song track names that really drew me in the most. Some examples include 'Arrival In Nara,' which is followed straight after by a track simply titled 'Nara,' 'Every Other Freckle,' 'Left Hand Free,' 'Choice Kingdom,' 'Garden Of England (Interlude),' 'The Gospel Of John Hurt,' 'Bloodflood Pt 2,' and ends with 'Leaving Nara' to create a nice symmetry. And these are just a few of the titles, there are many more.
There are tracks that sound like they belong medieval carnival, ones that have such heavy bass to a point it is all consuming, one that uses instrumentation so well that I could have sworn it was rain and not a drum that I was hearing. The album takes you to feelings of curiousity, loneliness, excitement, power, motivation, melancholy and relaxation.
In one word, I'd simply call This Is All Yours mesmerising. I never got bored, the tracks were so different that I listened to every one and was still longing for more. There is so much variation and I'm so impressed in not only the song writing, which is very good, but also the skilled use of timbre.
I would absolutely recommend this album a listen. It was well worth my time, and if you've got an open mind, and an interest in the alternative indie-electric rock scene, you're likely to love it as much as me.
★★★★★
This Is All Yours
alt-J
(reviewed 15.10.14)
Little May is the EP from Sydney based trio, Little May. They have been slowly gaining the music industry's attention, after they won a compeition to play at Laneway Festival last year. This EP was released on the 10th of October 2014 and has six tracks
The free floating melodies are accompanied by beautiful airy harmonies. I really like how they manipulate the tempos and play a bit with the instrumentation. The first track off the rank starts off quite slow but builds to this kind of running beat and it feels like it is really hitting that climax, the music sweet spot.
I soon found out that this type of variation was a bit of a running theme throughout the EP. They use the technique of rapidly changing the elements of the song to create this difference, a song that doesn't easily get boring. They do it a lot... but hey... if it works!
There are really lovely vocals, and it is safe to say that the girls have a lot of talent. I was reminded of First Aid Kit, Emma Louise, Washington and Lisa Mitchell. They have a really breathy sound, that they translate into raw emotion.
I'd classify this album indie folk, but I'm almost leaning towards the country genre too. There are some elements that stand out every so often. It certainly isn't straight country, but it does have some characteristics every so often.
This is a solid EP. The ladies' angelic voices are the shining point for me. I would probably describe the sounds as almost like the female trio version of Asgeir. Lovely relaxing tunes, perfect for a warm lazy afternoon.
★★★
Little May (EP)
Little May
(reviewed 22.10.14)
Down To Earth came out on the 24th of October this year and is Flight Facilities debut album. If you've heard of Flight Facilties it might be because of one of the following reasons: They're aussie boys, they sang those catchy laid back electronia tracks 'Clair De Lune' and 'Foreign Language' and have done heaps of remixes of bands like Foals, CutCopy and Sneaky Sound System.
I felt like there was a lot of familiarity about this album. There were sounds I knew, like train and plane announcements and other random samples scattered throughout the album.
Their track, 'Clair De Lune' is on this album which I thought was really interesting since I remember it being such a big hit quite a while ago. It's an interesting move, lots of artists don't put a successful track from a while ago onto their next album in order to showcase their new songs. But in the case of Flight Facilities, I think it adds to that sense of familiarity.
There was a very busy vibe about this album. Flight Facilities certainly haven't skipped on any of the details. It felt full, and worthy of time. There are heaps of guest apperances including (but not limited to) Emma Louise, Reggie Watts, Owl Eyes, Giselle and Kylie (yes our Kylie Minogue).
Some tracks sounded very relaxed disco, others had some city moods to them, and others 90's laid back pop sounds and r'n'b grooves.
All up Down To Earth is a really mellow groovy piece of work that draws you in with its catchy tunes and range of voices. I liked how the beats aren't too heavy, but there is still that essence of wholeness about these songs. I could really find myself getting into the Down To Earth headspace.
★★★
Down To Earth
Flight Facilities
(reviewed 29.10.14)
1989 (Deluxe)
Taylor Swift
(reviewed 12.11.14)
Taylor Swift's latest long awaited album, 1989. came out on the 27th of October. I choose to review the deluxe version, which has 16 tracks and 3 voice memos. The voice memos consist of Taylor doing a little intro to what the memo was about, and then a little taster that she sent off, before she recorded the album. It's a personal touch that works well with her fanbase and album themes.
There is a bit of experimentation in this album. I have mixed feelings. I really like Taylor Swift, I enjoy how she's constantly evolving, learning from mistake and writing about it. 1989 seems like it's definitely the next stage in her journey. The lyrics have taken on a different theme. Some parts, vocally, reminded me of Hayley from Paramore. It's an interesting twist.
She has absolutely moved away from country, 1989 Taylor is all pop. There are some definite hits. Shake It Off for one, but there are some other goodens too.
There are upbeats and downbeats, lots of showing off her many octaves, which is a cool showcase. There are a few stripped back songs. She does a good job at mixing it up though, a fast track usually follows a slow one and visa versa.
The backing music often sounded like ambience music, which confused me a bit. It kind of felt a little out of place, it made the vocals and instrumentation feel a bit too disconnected.
This album reminded me a lot of my school years. Early 2000's girl group vibes all round. Any of these tracks could fit in perfectly to 'So Fresh hits of Summer' or a 'Barbie Slumber Mix' (if you were 9 in the noughties, you'd understand). Think Hilary Duff and Kelly Clarkson.
If you're a Taylor Swift fan, of course you'll love this album. For me, it seemed like it missed it by this much. It melted into each other, but makes it a bit difficult for this album to be memorable for me.
★★★
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Soundtrack
Various Artists
(reviewed 19.11.14)
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay soundtrack was released on November 14 this year. And let me tell you, the soundtrack has definitely not held back in getting talent. This album features Lorde, HAIM, a Kanye West rework, Ariana Grande, CHVRCHES, Bat For Lashes, The Chemical Brothers and Charli XCX. Just as a general compliation album goes, it's a pretty sweet mix.
The tracks do really well to reflect the experience of The Hunger Games. It's upbeat, with twinges of longing and melancholy, and an underlying feeling of hope and moving forward. They are tracks that work really well as stand alone songs, but when you hear it in the context of The Hunger Games a light goes on and it's easy to connect the two.
There is a good mix of genres featured in this album. There are some that have big elements and influences of rap and folk, lots of new wave feels, and then some that are definitely just alt pop.
I definitely heard some tracks that I straight away throught I could really get into. There's one called 'Lost Souls', by Raury, whom I had never heard of before, but immediatly fell really into the rhythms. Lorde of course is another one, she doesn't disappoint either.
The only thing that you have to watch out for is that a lot of these tracks featured on the album are only downloadable if you buy the entire album. It's only a handful of them, but it is a bit annoying.
I really enjoyed listening to this soundtrack, and discovering news artists. The whole album captures the apocalyptic vibe really well, and did a good job making me want to see the film even more now. There are some abstract sounds, but in the context of the series it works. I enjoyed testing the Mockingjay waters.
★★★★
The Golden Echo
Kimbra
(reviewed 26.11.14)
The Golden Echo came out back on August 15 this year and features 12 tracks. It is Kimbra's second album. If you don't know of Kimbra, she is a New Zealand born artist, but she lives in Melbourne, so like all good kiwi things, we've kind of claimed her as our own (because she is so talented and has an amazing voice).
She channels a lot of electronia mixed with 90's mellow vibes. This, it turns out, is the perfect combination for her ecclectic unique voice.
The songs go in directions you wouldn't expect. I wouldn't call this a conventional album. There are parts that when I heard them first, didn't make a whole heap of sense to me, but after listening to them over the past few months I have come to really enjoy.
There are even some neo-disco elements. Almost - remember that song 'Celebration'? (celebrate good times come on)... there are tracks with that amount of energy which is awesome. The kinds of tracks that make you toe tap without realising you're toe tapping.
It's a different direction to her previous works, her older stuff is very pop easy listening. The Golden Echo is her next step in developing and experimenting with her sound. It's a change, but a welcome one. Don't get me wrong, I loved her old album, so much that I bought it on vinyl too (she has the voice for vinyl). However, I enjoyed this album, after really pushing myself into it.
I think this album is not just for a one time listen. I think if you just skim over it you would get a very different experience from it, and it is the kind of album you kind of just have to delve yourself into.
There weren't any tracks I didn't like, but there were definite favourites. My only criticism was that if you wanted to get one of the best tracks, 'Miracle', you had to buy the whole album. But in saying that, in order to really get the most out of The Golden Echo you really need the whole album anyway.
All in all I thought this album was an interesting and enjoyable journey.
★★★
John Newman is a name you hear a lot after the word 'featuring.' He has done a lot of collabs, including one you've probably heard of called 'Feel The Love' with Rudimental.
His own album, Tribute was released October 11th 2013. And, I'll be honest, my expectations for this album were a bit too high. I'd only really heard some of his collaborations and two of his more well known tracks from this album, 'Love Me Again' and 'Cheating'. I was a bit let down by the rest of the album.
The first time I gave it a listen through, it sounded to me like he was trying to be a British Justin Timberlake. Which is fine, I'm a JT fan, but it just didn't seem to quite get there.
It also sounds like he's purposely making his voice nasally, which turned me off a lot throughout the album.
It had high ratings on itunes, so I guess that's why I thought it would be a bit better than it was. It wasn't terrible, but it didn't seem like a particuarly memorable album. It all sounded pretty much the same to me.
All in all, he has potential but I probably wouldn't choose to listen to Tribute as a whole again. I would definitely keep listening to the two already circulating everywhere, but I don't see many more of these tracks becoming big hits.
★★
Chet Faker is a name in music that you tend to hear being thrown around a lot, but don't quite know exactly it means. Chet Faker, aka Nicholas Murphy, is becoming more and more well known in the industry, mainly for collabs and singles. Until now. Finally, we have the release of his very first studio album.
I'd personally be more prone to call Built On Glass a journey rather than a debut album. Chet has a very sultry kind of voice, and he likes to experiement which is cool to hear. There are random instrumental parts, as well as a mix of talking and singing, which normally would turn me off a bit, but his voice is so smooth that it somehow works. There are also some interesting unexpected tempo changes so you can't really predict where the album is heading. Another thing that got me confused was a track titled '/' which was literally just a man saying to turn the record over.
There are some really nice harmonies too, you can tell by listening that he's obviously really talented and has put a lot of thought into the album. It's electro-soul which wouldn't seem to go together but it works.
It reminded me of the background music in a cafe. A really really hipster cafe.
I liked this album, and if you like Chet Faker or the kinds of smooth alternative folk sounds, you'll probably like this album too.
★★★
Kate Miller-Heidke and I have had a long and interesting history. Make no mistake, I've never actually met the woman. But I did discover her early into my high school years. Before one of her songs was on the Neighbours ad and everyone became obsessed with 'Last Day On Earth', I was obsessed with her previous album, Little Eve. And since then, while I've enjoyed her new stuff, nothing has ever measured up.
Until now.
O Vertigo was released March 14 this year. Right away, as soon as you hit play on the first track, she's already drawn you in. There's a lot of different sounding rhythms and sounds, which may be the reason I liked this album so much, it's got elements of Little Eve here and there, but mixed in with this new, modern kooky sound. There's songs that feature Megan Washington, Drapht and even Passenger, which is awesome, because they all work really well together.
The opera style is back too. If you didn't know, KMH is actually classically trained as an opera singer, which is amazing, but even more amazing is how she uses it to differentiate herself in her music. She also has the most beautiful harmonies, it's almost like a choir is singing along with her.
The best way I can think to descibe this album is fun. It's really fun to listen to. Definitely give it a go.
★★★★
You may not have heard any of Ziggy Marleys music but you probably have heard of Jamaican artist, Ziggy Marley, himself. As the name would suggest, he is related to the legendary Bob Marley - his oldest son to be exact. Ziggy Marley has the music in his blood and has been performing since a very young age - with his dad, with his other siblings, and of course, solo.
Fly Rasta was released on the 18th of April. It's no surprise that Ziggy is an artist that performs in the reggae genre, it's practically a given. However I found this album had some really nice Ska and Jazz elements and even a touch of folk type sounds.
The album has a really nice vibe, it made me feel like I was walking around a chilled out festival in the afternoon, just taking in the atmosphere. The lyrics are postive, the grooves are mellow and soulful - the album on a whole has a really happy feel about it. There are even a few tracks that have more of a stripped back feel which is really nice to hear.
while I can't say I listen to a lot of reggae, this album almost makes me wish I did. It does a really nice job of putting you in a good mood. Imagine sitting at a beach cafe of an early afternoon, watching the waves roll in. With a few little upbeat tweaks. That's the best way I can describe this album.
★★★
In keeping with the theme of artists in the news, I chose to review Pharrell Williams new album, GIRL. This album came out just last week on March 3rd and has been long awaited by many fans. So I thought I'd see if it live up to the hype. Now even if you don't think you've heard of Pharrell, chances are you probably have, through another artist, he's done a fair few collaborations recently. Also he wore that weird hat the the Grammys. Ring any bells?
And chances are you've heard the most popular song off this album, 'Happy'. Because that has been playing absolutely everywhere lately. But what about the rest of the songs?The whole album reminds me of the early 2000s mixed with disco. Like you could definitely boogie down to it but its more an upbeat easy listening type mix. There are only 10 tracks and they all have the same kind of sound. 'It girl' sounds very jamaroquai-esque and I was about to say that there is a very early JT sound about it, but then I realized the next song featured him. There's also a duet with Alicia Keys.
I really like Pharrell but this album just didn't do it for me. There were a few tracks with few cool rhythms and such but overall, I was kind of underwhelmed.
★★
Foster The People's latest album Supermodel came out on Jan 14 this year. It's received generally positive feedback from what I've heard. Their first self titled album was a big hit and I was very curious to see how they chose to follow it up.
From what I hear through the grapevine, this album had some Moroccan influences. The album generally has around about the same dance feel to it, but there are definitely more percussive and even some more psychedelic rock elements which is very interesting. While the other album was dance track after dance track, this new one has a lot more variation. It's always interesting to follow a band as they progress into different stages of their music career.What also drew me into this album without even listening to it was some of the song titles. Puzzling but intriguing, they include some crackers such as 'A Beginners Guide To Destroying The Moon' and 'Goats In Trees'. What I also loved upon actually listening to the tracks is the experimenting they've done- even including some brass which is really different to what they've done in the past, but works really well for them.
I really enjoyed listening to this album, it definitely took me by surprise, but it was a good surprise. If you're really into FTP I'd highly recommend listening to both albums back to back, to see the progression.
★★★★
Rudimental recieved such fantastic reviews over the weekend for their performance at Future Music Festival so I decided it was about time that I gave their whole album a listen. Home was released back in April last year and has done really well. What I noticed immediately is how many of the songs I already knew. Even ones that I didn't even realise were theirs. It seems that they're still getting new hits off this even though Home is almost a year old.
You might recognise such songs as 'Feel The Love', 'Not Giving In', 'Waiting All Night' and 'Free'. They also have awesome guest performers scattered throughout the entire album, including but not limited to Foxes, Emeli Sande and John Newman.
Speaking from a live perspective, they're definitely worth going to see as their talent radiates from them, which is really promising. There is nothing worse than listening to an album only to find they sound completely different without the effects a studio can bring.
Overall the album has quite a positive feel, generally I felt energetic and quite courageous listening to a lot of the tracks. A good gym album but an even better psych up album.
★★★★
Since the Arctic Monkeys were in music news this week for snatching up a few British Music Awards, I decided it was about time to give AM a review. If you haven't heard of the Arctic Monkeys, they're a British indie rock band formed way back in 2002. If the name sounds familiar you probably heard them performing at the 2012 London Olympic Games Opening Ceremony.
Personally I'm a huge Arctic Monkeys fan, so the expectations were high for this album. It was released back in September 2013 and has been soaring in popularity. The tunes are catchy, they've got multiple hits and there is just something about AM that makes you want to get a move on. Almost motivational in a way.
If you're into the old rock, you're gonna like this album. The rhythms really sink down into you and get your toes tapping. I wouldn't say Alex Turner was far off when he said they're bringing rock and roll out of hibernation.
I love the Arctic Monkeys and I would have to say this is probably one of my favourite albums of the past few years. No matter what your music taste is, it's definitely worth a listen.
★★★★★
Temples is one of those rare bands that I had never actually heard of until I came across this album to review. So I really had no idea what to expect. But as soon as I started playing the first track, I knew I could dig their sound.
Temples are an English rock band that formed in 2012, and Sun Structures is their debut album. It was released on the 7th Feb 2014.
They have a distinct psychedelic rock sound, what I could almost descibe like a Tame Impala mixed with the Beatles in their 'acid phase' kind of mix. In some songs, like 'Keep In The Dark', there's even some Muse-esque sounds with the galloping rhythms.
Sun Structures is catchy for sure. There are cool warped surfy type guitar rhythms and I definitely got a nostalgia kinda vibe when I listened to it for the first time. The tracks branch out into unexpected melodies an rhythms, but after a while it does all sound a bit similar and it all blurs into each other. But hey, for psychedelic rock, that's probably a good thing.
Temples are a cool band, that's for sure. Would I listen to Sun Structures on repeat? Nah. But would I recommend giving this album a listen? Definitely.
★★★
Released on Jan 31st 2014, The Jezabels do not disappoint with their second album, The Brink. Their debut album, Prisoner, reached number 1 in the Australian charts, so there were some quiet high expections for this long awaited album. And while I wouldn't say it's as good as Prisoner, it definitely has lots of potential. It's already rated quite highly on itunes, and a couple of the tracks have hit the mainstream radio which is always a good sign.
This album has the classic Jezabel sound, so no disappointments there. If you're looking for more of singer Hayley's haunting vocals and the fantastic eccentric drum rhythms then I encourage you to listen away. However there are a few new(er) surprises. Hayley sings almost fully soprano in the track 'Look of Love' which works really nicely in contrast to the distinctive sounds of previous tracks (ie. starting low and hitting high notes every so often for that element of surprise). I also found when listening to the track 'Time To Dance' the sound has become what I can only descibe as 'more aussie'. Like they've channeled James Reyne and Paul Kelly when they were writing.
I liked The Brink. No I don't think it's better than their first. But I don't by any means think it's a dud either. It's easy to listen to and forfills my Jezabel fix (for now).
★★★
Tribute
John Newman
(reviewed 06.05.14)
Built On Glass
Chet Faker
(reviewed 29.04.14)
Fly Rasta
Ziggy Marley
(reviewed 22.04.14)
O Vertigo!
Kate Miller-Heidke
(reviewed 01.04.14)
Supermodel
Foster The People
(reviewed 18.03.14)
G I R L
Pharrell Williams
(reviewed 11.03.14)
HOME
Rudimental
(reviewed 04.03.14)
AM
Arctic Monkeys
(reviewed 25.02.14)
Sun Structures
Temples
(reviewed 18.02.14)
The Brink
The Jezabels
(reviewed 04.02.14)
