MIXTAPE
Uptown Special
Mark Ronson
(reviewed 04.02.15)
Mark Ronson is no stranger to collaborations. He has done some great mixes with Amy Winehouse, Kasabian and Phantom Planet. But boy oh boy has he outdone himself with this album.
You'll hear some familiar voices featured on this album - Stevie Wonder, Bruno Mars and Kevin Parker to name a few. And they have never sounded better. All the voices are just so strong and empowering and it's simply brilliant to listen to.
Uptown Special has a crazy amount of energy. I've been listening to 'Uptown Funk' for months now and I haven't gotten sick of it yet. In saying that they aren't all super speedy - there are some chilled slower paced songs as well scattered throughout which really smooth the transition through the album.
There are just such groovy rhythms on this album. It's almost like we are in alternate universe and the 90's was the when funk emerged - that's what this album sounds like. There are some old school futuristic synth sounds and songs that sound like elevator music (in the absolute best way possible).
Every single song made me tap my toes. It is really rare that I find an album that makes me want to get up and dance around the house to every song, but Mark Ronson has done it. I would buy this album twice if I could.
Uptown Special is an explosion of funky tunes. There was not one song that I didn't like on first listen. What a fantastic start to 2015.
★★★★★
ALBUM REVIEWS 2015.
Man It Feels Like Space Again
Pond
(reviewed 11.02.15)
Man It Feels Like Space Again was released by Pond on January 18th this year. I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't this. Man It Feels Like Space Again is so different to their older things, while still holding onto those foundational elements - an effect that can only be understood by listening to tracks back to back. This album is full of alternative rock mixed with a bit of grunge. It has a quite a bit of a DIY sound but it makes it seem so authentic and doesn't take away from the cognitive process. There is so much going on here I don't know where to start.
The beginning of the album kind of sounds like they mixed the 70's with what they thought the future is going to sound like. There are some very psychedelic noises (think Beatles, Neutral Milk Hotel esque) that journey into danceable indie tunes. It's quite clever really.
The album progresses to what I would call 80's "disco" slow dance. I imagine it would fit in really well at the height of the tension in the school dance movie scene. 'Holding Out For You' seems like the epitomine of this.
We journey back into the futuristic noises, however this time they channel more of a David Bowie mood.
Nostalgic chilled rock is where we head next; Radiohead and The Verve immediately sprung to my mind.
Of course there are some outliers. There's a track that I could have sworn was Bob Dylan if he decided to add heaps of synthesiser to his songs. And their title track I couldn't quite pin down. But all in all, I felt this album, whether intentional or not, played tribute to some great styles of music.
I would call this album a furtistic journey through the ages. Complete with very cool album art, and interesting song titles, it's quite a sensation, but it was a fun listen.
★★★
Title
Meghan Trainor
(reviewed 18.02.15)
Theres a lot going on in Meghan Trainor's album Title. Or is there? Released on the 9th Jan this year, the new girl in town who has been bringing us catchy, if not completely socially correct, tunes such as 'All About That Bass' and 'Lip's Are Moving'.
She kind of appeared out of nowhere didn't she, Meghan Trainor. She's trying to be 50's style pop mixed with the autotune of the now. It's a tweenage alt girls dream, with the 'I going to call my album 'Title' to show that I am above silly stereotypical album names' (side note, there is actually a song called 'Title' in the album). Some tracks remind me a lot of the songs of the girl groups of the early 2000s actually. All in all the subject matter is pretty naive though.
There are bits and pieces of those 50's rhythms, the doowop beats but there are also some very suspciously Taylor Swift vocals going on, like in '3am'.
Speaking of her vocals, they baffled me a bit. She has a light swift like, high voice, but every so often she pronounced things so oddly. In fact I was quite surprised to put her face to her music, I was expecting someone quite different.
You have to praise her for her ability to break into the mainstream music market. Sure, she'll probably has a crazy production and press team behind. But cred when cred is due.
I mean, there is an impressive amount of songs on this album - 15 in total. But she doesn't really offer anything new. The whole things sounds pretty similar, there are slower ones (she's trying to be Amy Winehouse I think), and more upbeat finger clickers but nothing really stood out for me.
There is talent here, but you can almost here the production which sours the deal. I can physically hear the marketing.
★★
Fifty Shades Of Grey
Official Movie Soundtrack
(reviewed 25.02.15)
This week, I put my personal feelings about the film aside and decided to concentrate solely on the music. Yep, this week is all about the Fifty Shades Of Grey soundtrack. Released on the 10th of Feb this year, it's hit the top of the itunes downloads, so I thought it was about time I paid some attention.
And what can I say. Before even listening, the album seemed impressive. I'm talking Beyonce, The Rolling Stones, Frank Sinatra, The Weeknd, Sia, Ellie Goulding, and even Danny Elfman was on board.
First thing I noticed, however, was the fact that EVERY track has the title, then in brackets 'from the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack'. Like we didn't know. Because they absolutely need more marketing.
There are a couple of album only tracks (and of course they are the Beyonce, Frank Sinatra and Rolling Stones ones). In a sad turn of events, they are the ones I'd most recommend. The 'Haunted' queen Bey remix is on point.
Then there is just a random 'Beast Of Burden' chucked in there for good measure. It didn't really fit. Don't know if it slots perfectly into the film or what not, but in the soundtrack it seemed super out of place.
I did like AWOLNATION's version of 'I'm On Fire' though. It was a stripped back version of a classic, something I can always appreciate.
The whole thing seemed very cheesy with a dash too much of romantic sexual tension. In an awkward way. I came into this review before seeing the film, but it's like I can feel the cheese.
There are a lot of hit and misses in this soundtrack. Mostly misses. Even Danny Elfman couldn't save it.
★★
The Wanderings of The Avener
The Avener
(reviewed 04.03.15)
The Wanderings of the Avener was released on the 20th of February this year. Apart from 'Fade Out Lines', I had never really heard of The Avener before. I had some kind of indie electro expectations, but what I experienced was actually very different.
This album plays a lot with auto tune to create these weird furturistic space sounding vocals. There seems like there is a lot of channelling Royksopp and Robyn, and even some Adele-like vocals (although that's only in one song).
This album was different to me because it uses a variety of different voices, most of whom I had never heard before, but all of whom has immense talent. It's strange to hear such a wide mix, although it really kind of sums up the album - a big mix.
There are a few instrumentational tracks, a song featuring Rodriguez and even a low key cover of the Black Key's 'Lonely Boy' chucked in for good measure.
I liked how this album was really focusing on experimentation. It was interesting to hear all these familiar elements - country, pop, indie, electro - which were melded together to create something unfamiliar. There's a track called 'We Go Home' where the vocals sound country-esque and the backing has very dance rhythms. Very cool.
Overall, the chilled backing of most of the songs really drew me in. It's a subtle twist that made me really intrigued with what the next track would bring to the table.
★★★★
Gracetown is San Cisco's second album, released on the 6th of March this year. You may have heard of them from hits such as Awkward, Wild Things, Fred Astaire and Beach.
This album has a nice balance of both Scarlett (the drummer) and Jordi (the lead singer)'s vocals. They both have such quirky voices that it works really well for the band. It's really nice to hear more of Scarlett too, having her vocals on more tracks spaces out the songs and adds that little bit more variety.
It seems they are experimenting more with the electronia genre (although don't be alarmed, they are still very much their old indie pop sounding selves). There is definitely some more dabbling with the synthesiser. Lots of genuine grooves and bodymovers.
Gracetown is really an album of more of what already works for San Cisco. They don't offer anything really new, but this album is almost as good as their last, which is a plus in my books. They have a style, they have an audience, they know what their fans want and they are giving it to them. Nothing wrong with that.
If you're a fan of San Cisco, you'll like this album. I can hear a fair few hits, and in fact they have already had a few. The upbeat style did mesh a few songs into one another for me, but all in all I enjoyed listening. At its core it is simply a very San Cisco album. They channel the 70's image, but their music is definitely of the now.
★★★
Gracetown
San Cisco
(reviewed 11.03.15)
Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit
Courtney Barnett
(reviewed 25.03.15)
Man oh man have I been waiting a long time for this album to come out. I've been hearing so much about it, and have been having this long time love affair with two or three Courtney Barnett songs, it's safe to say I was pretty pumped to give her debut album a spin.
Now you might be in the quickly shrinking boat of people that have never heard of Courtney Barnett before. Let me give you the basics. She's a singer slash guitarist from Melbourne and she's gaining momentum pretty quickly. She's already headlining multiple festivals, both national and international, and has recieved critical acclaim for a few of the tracks she released early from this album.
This album, titled Sometimes I Sit and Think and Sometimes I Just Sit was released on March 20th this year. It has 11 tracks.
Her sound is incredibly DIY. But loveable DIY. It's got a real aussie essence thought - her accent is strong and she really grips into the rough edges side of rock and roll. She has a very spoken vocal type of voice in her tracks, which you might think would put you off, but actually it really sets her apart from the rest of todays music. She's different, she's not perfect, she's the sound we've been looking for.
What the album does really well is show another side of Courtney. On the radio, or from friends, I was mostly used to hearing these heavy rock tracks. It was nice hearing a softer side as well.
The music itself seems to be really influenced from that 60s/70s era of bare to the bone riffs and rhythms. The lyrics are fantastic, they simply just don't stop. They're weird and wacky and wonderful. And they have meaning. They deal with everyday issues (and blantent ones at that - there is a track called 'Nobody Cares If You Don't Go To The Party'), and you can tell these are stories that have come from somewhere.
I was disappointed that 'Pickles from the Jar' didn't feature in this album, because I think it would have worked so well. Nevertheless, Courtney Barnett has produced such a cracker of a first album, I'd definitely recommend a listen.
★★★★
Chasing Yesterday was released on the 6th March this year. It is The High Flying Birds' second album.
The original album had 10 tracks on it, but there are 14 tracks on the deluxe album, which is quite an effort on their behalf. And let me tell you, it's worth giving them all a listen.
This album starts off ballad-y. But ballad-y in the best way.
Every track adds something new, while still being tied to the previous track. It's a great way to make the whole thing consistent.
There is everything in this album - pub rock rhythms, toe-tapping rhythms and even little twinges of country. It's a great mix.
The lyrics are mystical and just really interesting. They follow a very Noel Gallagher theme, so these are not unlike Oasis lyrics (which is a good thing).
There are even little elements of Beatles in some of the songs. Although I guess there always has been. It's nice to hear influences appear every so often, it makes you appreciate the music.
There are some serious riffs going on in Chasing Yesterday. It's a fairly full on with the upbeat tracks. Granted there are some slower tracks, but none are really that slow, if you get what I mean.
Overall, this album feels like coming home after a long time. I sunk straight back into the familiarity of The High Flying Birds' crazy listenable music, and I had such a nice time. Think U2 (before the free iTunes album).
I thought (and think) nothing but nice thoughts about this album.
★★★★
Chasing Yesterday
Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds
(reviewed 01.04.15)
Cinderella (The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), is the accompaniment to the Hollywood live-action remake of the Disney classic. The soundtrack has a whopping 33 tracks, which is absolutely astonishing. It is also pretty much all classical - so if you're not into that you can skip this review.
Almost all of the tracks are composed by Patrick Doyle, with the exception of one song sung by Lily James, one by Sonna Rele and one by Helena Bonham Carter.
It contains all the classics that are pretty similar to the original which is great for those die-hards.
They are all so classic Disney and beautiful and take you away to a far away kingdom where you don't have to worry about everyday frets or upcoming challenges.
The thing I love about these classical tracks is how quickly they can change your mood. One second there are high strings and everything is bubbly and happy, the next the cellos and the double basses chime in oh boy you can tell something bad is going to happen.
Pretty much everyone knows the story to Cinderella, and this album's music describes what goes on in the story pretty darn well. It's also quite refreshing to see an soundtrack that is from a remake princess film, that is full of classical compositions, rather than just what happens to be at the top of the charts right now.
This would be a beautiful soundtrack to fall asleep to. I could just tell I would have wonderful dreams after hearing this.
★★★
Cinderella
Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
(reviewed 08.04.15)
Glitterbug (the deluxe version) was released on the 13th of April (7th of April on itunes) this year. It's got 13 tracks on it and is the Wombats third studio album.
I feel a progression is defintely happening with the Wombats music. In their first studio album we had them establishing themselves in a very alt-pop kind of way that was all the rage when I was in highschool. Then we had their second album which seemed to have a big theme of nostalgia - we had tracks like '1996' and 'Techno Fan' which kind of had this longing for times before.
Now we have Glitterbug which game me the first impression of a every later 80s, early 90s synth rhythm kind of sound. It obviously has lots of original Wombats traits, so on the surface it does sound similiar to their previous album. However, I really think that there is a bit more experimentation in this album, and you can tell they are evolving and defining their sound (whether they intend to or not).
Most of the tracks are upbeat, which isn't unusual for the band, because it is a style that works so well for them. They are great at creating really catchy melodies.
This album follows a pattern set out by the previous albums - there are going to be some real standout hits. And if you buy the album, you're probably going to enjoy all of the tracks. But there are definitely some great beats going on here, they've managed to create a pretty spot on album again.
My only concern is that for me some of the tracks blended into each other, but really, I think this could be avoided by giving the album a good couple of spins.
★★★
Glitterbug
The Wombats
(reviewed 22.04.15)
All Possible Futures is the second studio album from Melbourne alt-indie-techno band Miami Horror. We've been waiting a while for another album, and this one was finally released on April 24th this year.
The aesthetics of the album scream nostalgic America of the 1950's. All those pastel colours and convertable cars. The suspicions all but seemed proved correct when I noticed the title of the first track - 'American Dream'. I guess that's what Miami Horror has always reminded me of though - nostalgic sounds. It seems to be the trend right now, taking big elements from the past decades.
But what of the music? Does it live up to the expectations set up the last album?
There are 15 tracks, which fluctate between finger-clicking toe-tappers and shoulder swaying ballards.
They do again what they did so well in the first album - create these lower key tracks that explode into hip moving grooves. It's pure talent and I'm so pleased they have managed to pull it off again.
I loved the dream like tunes with snippits of interesting sounds like a glockenspiel. I was pleasantly surprised to listen to some tracks and actually know them already - they've done a really good job at releasing singles beforehand.
A few of the tracks reminded me a lot of some of the Flight Facilities songs - this kinds of plays back into that building on nostalgia feel a lot of acts seem to be doing right now.
I loved this album, I'm such a big fan of creators who set you up with one thing and deliver another - just like Miami Horror are known for doing. There wasn't one track I didn't enjoy having a little dance in the living room to.
★★★★
All Possible Futures
Miami Horror
(reviewed 29.04.15)
Wilder Mind is Mumford and Sons third studio album, and their first album after their hiatus a few years ago. I'm looking at the deluxe edition, which has 16 tracks (including three live ones), and was released on the 4th of May,
Lets start with the pros. This album show cases Mumford and Sons as a whole again, which is always a good thing. They are a very talented band with a lot to offer, so I was really excited to review this album.
There are some absolutely beautiful songs. This album shines when it comes to stripped back acoustics - songs like 'Cold Arms' and 'Only Love' are breathtaking.
And the cons? They've ditched the banjo.
I talked about this a few weeks ago, but it came out that the band ditched the banjo to allow for a more freeing style of music making. Which I totally understand as we tended to associate Mumford and Sons with banjo sounds.
But that's just the thing - we associated Mumford and Songs WITH banjo sounds. Without the banjo, they seem to be a bit unsure of what they want to be. They've completely changed their sound, so much that when I played the first track on the album I thought I was listening to Boy and Bear. There are also so major Foo Fighters influences going on.
In all aspects musically there is nothing wrong with Wilder Mind, but it just didn't seem to capture all the talent and fullness Mumford and Sons have been in the past. I respect what the band is doing, but I feel like they've lost a bit of what seperated them from other bands.
★★★
Wilder Mind (Deluxe)
Mumford and Sons
(reviewed 06.05.15)
This album was released on April 24 this year and has seven tracks on it - one of which is a remix.
Dipz from the Zong is really interesting - it isn't called an EP as such, but it seems to act like one. They have another album that is of a really similar name, but I just found it interesting that even if this was just a 'taster' album, there wasn't anything (on iTunes) to tell me anything more about it.
It's like someone has mashed Tame Impala with The Beastie Boys. It seems to switch all over the place. It really did go in some weird places.
The sounds were really full most of the time. There were some serious hard grunge rock vibes going on. They really seemed like they were trying to fill out their space. If that was what they were going for it worked. They have definietly managed to create this barrier of music that simply blasts you from all directions.
It also seems like a really raw sound going on. A few of the tracks are actually the original demos which I assume means that a later version or 'radio version' was released. These few tracks portray the raw essence that is The Delta Riggs.
For an album only having 7 tracks it was pretty good. Not at all how I expected. I'd definitely give a few of the tracks another listen, but it seemed like it was just a bit messy for a whole album.
★★
Dipz from the Zong
The Delta Riggs
(reviewed 13.05.15)
Dark Night Sweet Light was released on May 15 this year. It's got 11 jam packed tracks on it, and is their 5th album.
Hermitude is a duo from the Blue Mountains, but you may have heard of them via remixes from the likes of Flume. They rose to fame with their track 'HyperParadise' in 2012.
If you've never heard of them, Hermitude has been all about the club beats, and this album is no exception. It's full of ambient beats with some guest appearances from Young Tapz, Chloe Kaul, Mataya and Yeo.
There seems to be a few more low key tracks on this album which provides a good barrier of breakup between the fast paced ones. This album really seems to go up and down a few times. The way Hermitude have put together the track listing seems pretty much perfect.
There are definitely some killer tunes on this album. 'Through The Roof' featuring Young Tapz was released as a single earlier in the year and got a lot of love, due to it's Spanish elements that really made it stand out from the crowd. 'The Buzz' featuring Mataya and Young Tapz has been getting the plays now though, due to it's club thumping rhythms that seem very reminiscent of 'HyperParadise'. There is also a reprise of one of the tracks which is a bit different, but it was interesting to hear how they adapted the first version, since they themselves have been remixed so many times.
Dark Night Sweet Light is a interesting album. Sure there were some tracks that seemed a bit -for lack of a better term - "normal", but that's what you get when they slot in a couple of full blasting mixes into the middle of the album. For those alone it is worth a listen.
★★★
Dark Night Sweet Light
Hermitude
(reviewed 20.05.15)
Talk has been a long awaited album and has recieved a lot of hype in the process. This is the frontman of Silverchair's debut album. Released May 22 this year, it features 15 decently sized tracks. For the lead singer of an incredibly influential rock band of the 1990's/2000's, Talk couldn't be further from Silverchair.
There is a whole heap of experimentation and a whole heap of working with sound machines and samplers. You can tell it's Daniel Johns only by his voice - and even that is played with most of the time.
This album is new - but not? It channels a lot of early 2000's boy bands vibes like in 'By Your Side' but then combines that with a lot of trap beats.
We really get to hear Johns' vocal range - which is very impressive. That is one aspect that really works in his favour in a few of the tracks.
I found this album to be very 'stop-and-starty'. This was both in the individual tracks and throughout the whole album. Apart from 'Aerial Love' I can't really pick the songs apart. And the only reason I can hear 'Aerial Love' is that I've heard it on the radio so much.
I respect what Johns is doing. I really respect how he is jumping what seems like is completely out of his comfort zone and attemping a new genre. I don't think it quite works. I get that it is experimentation and he is branching out, but it all sounds a bit radical and as a result kind of flops. This isn't just a case of preferring Silverchair - although I think it is impossible to not make that comparison. It's more that Talk just sounds like a heap of sounds muddled together that don't make much sense.
★
Talk
Daniel Johns
(reviewed 27.05.15)
I had mixed emotions coming into this album review. On one hand I really do love Florence and admire her talent, musicianship and outlandish style. On the other, I had heard her track 'What Kind of Man' about 50 MILLION times on the radio and to say I was sick to death would be an understatement. I liked the track when I first heard it, but after the seventh time hearing it in one day, my liking turned sour. So yeah. Mixed emotions.
How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful has gotten some great reviews since its release on May 13th this year. More than a month after its initial release and it is still at number three on the iTunes charts.
But what of the actual music? Has Florence and her machine done it again?
The short answer? You betcha.
The massive 16 tracks contain a few bonus and demo tracks which is a rare treat to be released so early in the game. They also have a ton of variety.
There are the well known Florence vocals that continue to amaze, as well as a range of instruments that add texture in the best places. Some songs are classicly slower and others are shoulder swayers.
If anything this album is a bit more pop-y. Not in a bad way though. Just in a more commercial way. I don't know if this album is better than the last, but it certainly doesn't lose any points. Except 'What Kind Of Man'. I've lost my love for that one.
It seems that this album uses less drama and more focus, if that makes sense. Florence focuses on the raw music, rather than relying on theatrics. It certainly is worth listening to.
★★★
How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful
Florence + The Machine
(reviewed 17.06.15)
Jamie xx's In Colour came out May 29 this year. It has 11 tracks, and impressive iTunes reviews. I was intrigued.
It started out not like I expected. Catchy STOMP-like rhythms litter the first track, creating what I would consider late 90's dance beats.
The second track started more smoothly, but pushed its way into trap-like music. But the relaxed kind. Like something you'd hear in a tv show where people are at a party that is super trendy but nobody really likes.
From there it is a kind of swirly journey through echo and loops. Each track is different but the same. All bring a new element to the table, while still continuing a familiar theme.
Every track surprised me. I got halfway through and was blown away at how much I had no idea what was going on. Most album you kind pick at common threads, or predict patterns. In Colour gave you nothing, and then everything all at once.
The majority of what you hear is ambience made into music, but every so often you get snippits of conversation and voices, almost like you're moving from room to room, but every room is a different party.
This album is what the my parents would call 'out there'. There isn't a real direction, a real purpose or a real point. What there is, is a bunch of sounds perfectly crafted together to create this master album. I enjoyed it, so maybe you will to?
★★★
In Colour
Jamie xx
(reviewed 01.07.15)
Currents is the long anticipated album from Aussie band, Tame Impala. It was released on July 17 this year and is their third studio album. All I have heard in the last few weeks is how amazing this album is, so I thought it would be the perfect album to review to start off the second half of the year (at least on this show!).
We heard 'Cause I'm A Man' earlier in the year which was an instant hit, and channelled the Tame Impala psychedelic sounds we have come to love. And while the psychedelic influences are most definitely 100 per cent still there, the sounds have almost switched to pop rather than rock. It's a win-win situation for most fans - we get to keep the Tame sounds but we can hear the progression and journey that Kevin Parker has taken the band through.
These are dancing tunes. They have steady beats and range from wild toe-tappers to slow dancing ballards. There are some really interesting samples too and instrumentation that brings out themes and compliments the tonalities.
While the previous album took some major influences from the 70's era Beatles sound, Currents seems definitely all about the 80's. I can so easily slot any song of this album into an 80's cult classic movie and it would pretty much fit perfectly. It makes me wonder whether Parker's going to move to 90s grunge for his fourth album.
I really enjoyed listening to Currents. I like seeing progression and evolutions in music and Tame Impala continues to delight.
★★★★
Currents
Tame Impala
(reviewed 03.08.15)
Hoops is the latest album from Aussie rockers, The Rubens. It was released on the 7th of August this year. The Rubens sky rocketed to fame with their debut self titled album a few years ago. You probably remember the tracks 'My Gun' and 'Lay It Down'.
Hoops definitely brings back the rock, that's for sure.
I was immediately drawn in by their hypnotising rhythms. The best way I can think to descibe it as is literally catchy - I literally felt like I wanted to catch the music. It gave you just enough that you wanted more, but it didn't overpower your ears.
I can hear some very big Foo Fighters elements coming through too. The heavy instrumentals combined with the strong vocals - I would even go as far as to call them the Australian Foo Fighters after hearing this album.
Each song makes me want to do that embarrassing head nodding, air drumming combo you do when you're really digging something.
There are bits of variation here and there but mostly this is a very heavy rock album. And it's brilliant. I feel like we haven't had a proper Aussie hard rock album in quite some time; but the Rubens have definitely ended the dry spell. I would 100% recommend a listen, I loved every second.
★★★★★
Hoops
The Rubens
(reviewed 19.08.15)
Wild is the latest EP from Aussie YouTuber Troye Sivan. It was released on the September 4th this year.
Troye is a 20 year-old vlogger. He got a fair bit of praise from his album he released last year called TRXYE. Although this EP only came out a few days ago, it has already gotten great reviews.
What struck me when I first listened to the Wild EP was how mature Sivan sounds. Compare this album to the last and there is almost like a world of difference between the two. His vocals are strong but soft - a perfect balance.
The other thing that stuck me was the influences I heard- there was some J-Biebs, and some Michael Buble. But mostly it was very like Daniel Johns.
Broods and TKay Maidza feature on the album which is pretty sweet guest artists to have on your EP.
There is some really nice sampling and synth sounds featured. It's a really nice mix of modern and soft sounds, which seems to be a bit of a trend right now. There are only a few tracks, as it is an EP. The EP does fall into the trap of each track sounding a little too similar to the last, but overall I thought this was a really nice album. I liked it a lot more than the last album. I feel can hear the progression, it really feels like there has been a maturing of the music. Sivan has succeeded in making me feel super insufficiant for not having a chart topping album when I was twenty.
★★★
Wild EP
Troye Sivan
(reviewed 16.09.15)
Honeymoon was released on the 18th of September this year. It has a substancial 14 tracks.
There are very classic Lana Del Ray haunting vocals with minimal instrumentation that send shivers down your spine. There are morbid piano and harmonies and strings that chill you to your core. She has a way of completely absorbing you in the moment, all consuming your attention in seconds.
She is the epitomine of melancholy. All her tracks make you think of dramatic moments - they give you flashbacks into your past that you didn't really think you needed to see again. Yet they give you clarity. That's what these tracks feel like.
There isn't a whole heap of variation but you don't really expect that from a Lana Del Ray album. What she does do really well is manage to make each song sound enchantingly interesting.
This album certainly lives up the the last. If you're in it for her signature sounds then you're in the right place. There are a whole heap of solemn sounds, so if that's your jam, this will be a perfect meal for you.
★★★★
Honeymoon
Lana Del Ray
(reviewed 24.09.15)
On Another Note
Sol3 Mio
(reviewed 14.10.15)
On Another Note is the second album from New Zealand trio, Sol3 Mio. This album was released on the 19th of September this year. It features a big 16 tracks, which are mainly a variation of covers.
I discovered Sol3 Mio only about a week ago and I've been obsessed with them ever since. I was completely blown away by their sound
The boys from Sol3 Mio do covers of a whole heap of genres. There is an Ed Sheeran cover, a Sound Of Music cover and even some old school italian love songs. And they definitely have the voices for it. Think modern acapella mixed with The Ten Tenors and you can get an idea of what these guys sound like.
They all have such beautiful voices and harmonise to perfection. I feel like I could listen to them for hours on end.
I would love to see what they would come up with if they decided to write their own songs. It would be interesting to see what style they decided to follow through with.
I loved everything about On Another Note. From hearing them live to hearing them on this album, I couldn't tell the difference, which is incredibly rare. I can honestly say I would highly recommend seeing them in person - it'll send chills down your spine. I'm very excited to see what these talented guys do in the future.
★★★★
I was so excited to delve Boy and Bear's third studio album, Limit of Love. It was released on only the 9th of October this year and features 11 tracks.
We are really used to hearing rock-folk-indie sounds from the aussie band, and if that's what you're after they won't disappoint. However there are still a few surprises.
Yes, there is a whole heap of folk going on, but there are also some big influences and tributes to other genres - the most prominent in fact being country - bits and pieces seep through and we hear elements of different styles and artists here and there.
There are also some really interesting sounds that appear sporatically throughout this album. Heaps of bits and bobs of aux percussion is scattered here there and everythere and really makes a point of difference for some of the stand out tracks.
There are still the classic Boy and Bear sounds too. I can't say there is the fun of 'Milk and Sticks' or the multiple classics from the second album but there is still fun to be had here.
I'm not sure that this album had the same momentum as the last couple - it definitely slipped under the radar for me. Still, it's a good time, especially if you like music that is upbeat and just really easy to listen to.
★★★
Limits of Love
Boy and Bear
(reviewed 21.10.15)
Revival
Selena Gomez
(reviewed 02.11.15)
Selena Gomez is one of those people who seems quite genuine for a child disney star but someone that you could never really take seriously when she decided to get into music. It's not because she isn't talented... quite the opposite. It's more that we have seen this so many times before - actress/actor turned singer turned whatever else. It's a boring concept, and one that I have never really invested that much energy into.
Until now.
Revival is her second solo album, which came out on October 9th this year. I came across an interview with Selena in it where she talked about Revival and how it was a really personal album for her to made. It also seems like she is addressing different issues in each track, which I think was something she was trying to get at.
What I love is that the songs sound different from one another. There is even one featuring A$AP Rocky which proves a change of pace to what I envisioned Selena to be like. I liked it though, it brought a nice sense of variety. I was also struck with lots of melodies that Beyonce and Lorde made really popular - those dragged out sing-rap sounds.
This album did seem to have a fair amount of auto-tune which confused me a little as I have heard nothing but good reviews about her singing talent. I'm not sure if it was an intentional effect, but I didn't think that was really necessary.
I liked my first [proper] experience with Selena Gomez. Would I go out of my way to listen to her again? Maybe not. But she definitely did produce something that I enjoyed listening to.
★★★
Art Angels
Grimes
(reviewed 10.11.15)
Art Angels is Grimes' fourth album. The album cover has a very Gorillaz vs. Japanese new-age style to it, which kind of sets the tone for some of the album. Emphasis on some.
Something I was not expecting right off the bat was the incredible classical twist that I heard in the very first track. It was, quite frankly, beautiful. Mixed with her breathy harmonies, it was an absolute surprise.
The album continues on in a completely different way. The next track was a early 2000's influenced girl-group sounding piece, that took drum samples from the kitchen phase of the 80s and 90s. It was superb.
This album is very different to her last. In a good way though - Grimes seems like she's building her image around constant change. Not in a Lady Gaga kind of way, in an experiemental and growth kind of way.
The whole album continues on this twisting and turning adventure. She sings in different languages, theres some tame screamo, punk-pop with Gwen Stefani influences, funk(?!?!?), fantasy beats, electronia and girl-rap.
After listening to this album I could really tell why it was called Art Angels. It really sounds like a piece of art. Each song stands strong on its own but boy oh boy do they work together well as a whole. This album was fun, upbeat, and above all not boring. What an absolute good time.
★★★★★
Paper Mache Dream Balloon
King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard
(reviewed 19.11.15)
Paper Mache Dream Balloon was released on November 13 this year by Australian band King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard.
Wannabe Beatles vibes. Slightly too overproduced to be their sound, but definitely feeling some 70s era elements.
This album is simple but catchy. There are high pitched (what sounds like) clarinet sounds and soft, subtle harmonies.
The band do have a knack for choosing weird and wonderful titles though - as you'd expect from a band called King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard. The song titles actually made me quite curious and kept me listening a lot of the time.
There are some fun parts - in the title track there is a sudden change in tempo which I really enjoyed. However for the most part it is a bit same-y same-y. It's the kind of stuff we are hearing from Tame Impala but just not as good... yet.
This isn't to say these guys don't have the talent- they do. They put together well produced and written songs. It just sounds like it's part of the first few steps, unlike other bands who are mimicing the 60s sounds and are a few paces ahead.
This really feels like a not-so-subtle throwback to the music of the late 60s and 70s. It's pleasant, but I wouldn't spend hours listening to it.
★★
25 has recieved so much hype that when it came to this week I couldn't not review it. It's Adele's third studio album, and the third she's named after her age (her first 19, then 21). Which is a nice but also impressive testimate to her strength, growth and talent as a musicians.
25 has 11 tracks, starting off with the smash hit 'Hello'. But the album takes a turn - if you thought that the whole album was going to be as moving and deep as 'Hello' prepare to be surprised.
I was immediately struck by 'Send My Love' which is basically the complete opposite of 'Hello'. It's groovy, and reminded me of The Lion King for some reason.
And the rest of the album follows similar themes. There are still a few other power ballads, but some of it is upbeat as well which was surprising. It's almost like she's combined the 'Chasing Pavements' era of 19 with the 'Someone Like You' era of 21 and made a mixmatch of sounds and rhythms.
I quite enjoyed it and can easily see a lot of these becoming hits as well.
I liked hearing the more upbeat. It's an interesting change. I'm in no way saying that Adele should completely switch genres - I still think 'Hello' is the standout track. It's just nice hearing more variation and the next stage of her musican journey.
★★★★
25
Adele
(reviewed 25.11.15)
Like You Want To
Kita Alexander
(reviewed 02.11.15)
Every so often I come across EP's from interesting artists. As a general rule I avoid them in favour of a full album, however this week I decided to embrace it and go along for the short ride that is Kita Alexander's EP Like You Want To.
It was released on November 27 and only has four tracks.
The title track has gained a whole heap of love and it's easy to see why - she is so easy to listen to. It remind me a little of early days Madonna, minus the 80s elements.
There is a whole heap fo synth and looped percussion but it works in the context of this song. There isn't anything too complex about this EP which I like. It's easy and enjoyable to get through.
There isn't a lot of variation though. If you asked me to name a track, I probably couldn't do it without looking at the name. They all meld into one another pretty well, which is the downfall of the EP when an artist showcases their favourite works.
Regardless, this EP is very relaxing. It's the kind of music you'd hear in a boutique or indie cafe. I look forward to what Kita Alexander brings us next - fingers crossed for an entire album!
★★
