Lopez Blogs

My title for this post lacks inspiration...
Thursday, November 16, 2006

Hello boys and girls. Are you sitting comfortably? Then I shall begin... because this is going to be a fairly lengthy post. It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas is it not? Standing behind a woman in Starbucks (toffee nut latte - yummy) who had bought her husband a christmas card from her freaking cat highlighted how crazy but fun this time of year is. Unless she was going to make the christmas card from her "pussy" (Mrs Slocombe style - calm down mom and dad!) as a wee jape - but then again that is still frankly a little bit weird. Lots of DazPresents Christmas gifts arrived from Amazon today so i have bought some nice silvery wrapping paper to wrap them up in. Darren always goes a little insane with the tape when wrapping my gifts and I usually need a blow torch to get into them! Still it's not as bad as one Valentine's Day when he gave me two bags of flour and said "don't say i never give you flours". I still lay awake crying at night over that one....
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THE ONES DANCING LIKE A ROBOT TO ELECTROPOP:
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It's very hard to dislike Jean. Not Jean that I used to work with because she was a walking nightmare to manage and reminded me of Joan Ferguson from Cell Block H. Shudder. No I am talking phantasmagorical musical group Jean. Which when you think about it is a great name for a group. Better than George for a solo singer. But I digress. TheZapping loves Jean for many reasons - their myspace page gives us epileptic fits on a regular basis; they are friends with the lovely Switch22 and attend Scissor Sisters concerts together; they get to go to glamourous places like Jersey which is where Bergerac lives; it has Matthew in it from Bad Boys Inc so clearly reminds me of many furtive "under the duvet" moments from my teens. And of course Jean make great music also. Electric Legs starts as a sparse piece of electronica with a great vocal (particularly on the line "she was a lady, a supersonic beauty queen") before plunging head first into a killer of a chorus at about the 1min30 mark. Girls Aloud should whore themselves out for a chorus this creamy :) Spiralling proves they are no one trick pony - a hauntingly beautiful ballad that quite rightly focuses on Matthew's vocal, which carries the song. It's kind of Erasure-esque and that's a huge compliment from me. I thought Erasure did ballads (Always, Am I Right, You Surround Me) incredibly well... then it goes all Shakespear's Sister "Stay" in the middle and you are titillated and aroused musically all over again. Some say the electro-clash movement is tired and over, but Jean make it fresh and exciting all over again. I don't want to gush too much. I'm a natural gusher (once it went in Darren's eye and he felt blinded) so just head on over to their sites and check them out for yourself...

Similar to Jean, but not quite as good (though still pretty fine) are T.H.E.M. - The Human Ego Maniacs, who are Christiana and Justin. Based in LA they have been making dance records for a few years but I have only just clocked them on my radar. Again, they manage to take the inspiration from Bananarama, Human League, Duran Duran and turn it into something pulsing and exciting. Killer Killer is a logical choice of single - persistent electro beats and a chorus that is so unassuming at first that it's genuinely surprising when you are still humming it ten minutes later. For something more immediate check out the giddy Beautiful which rather excellently makes use of the refrain "Mirror Mirror on the wall..." Super...
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LINK: Jean's myspace site
LINK: Bootleg Baby's myspace site
LINK: Andy Jean's myspace site
LINK: THEM's myspace site
LINK: Purchase THEM's new cd via iTunes
MP3: Jean vs Mylo - Electric Legs
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THE ZAPPING BOOK CLUB:
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Books are generally quite ace aren't they? As someone quite wise once said (i think it was Belle from Disney's Beauty And The Beast) they can take you away to magical places where you won't discover it's a prince til chapter three. Or something. Anyway, The Zapping Book Club will recommend a couple of books on a weekly basis (or when I remember any"hoo") and hopefully have some sort of theme to it. But it's all a bit hit and miss with these things isn't it? Anyway, this week it's all about reality talent contests...
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~ Chart Throb by Ben Elton: I'm not usually a huge Ben Elton fan, but this book certainly caught my eye. Basically it takes a pop shot at the world of "unscripted" television shows such as X-Factor and American Idol where the judges (a music mogul, the nation's fave mom and some other bloke... sound familiar?) control everything that happens until one contestant changes the rules and the judges face becoming ex-factors themselves. I've not finished it yet so can't tell you what happens, but it certainly is a mighty interesting read so far :)
~ My Sister's A Popstar by Kimberley Green: Aimed much more at a teen audience (which suits me down to the ground whatever that means...), this is a pretty hilarious tale of a young girl whose sister wins a tv talent show, does a national tour and then returns home with cameras in tow as she is talked into having her life become the next hit reality show. Amid the comedic situations lies a touching story of a young girl struggling to find her place in life in the shadow of her bigger sister. Quite lovely...
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LINK: Purchase Ben Elton's Chart Throb
LINK: Purchase Kim Green's My Sister's A Popstar
MP3: Eton Road - This Old Heart Of Mine (from X Factor)
MP3: Leona - Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word (from X Factor)
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THE ONE WHERE THE ZAPPING TRIES TO PREDICT THE FUTURE:
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~Generally, I worship the ground that Poppostergirl walks on. Not in a creepy stalking way though. It's a metaphor, children. Anyway, in a recent comment, PPG referred to a boyband being put together and while this one may not be it, i am hoping they will be one of a glut of boybands storming the charts in 2007. It all started with Lee Mulhern, who looks about 13 but is 17, has some straight forward cover versions on his myspace site and is part of a band called Streetwize that was put together by that guy who got sued by Backstreet Boys and N*Sync. Still, the guy knows how to launch boybands so Streetwize could be in with a shot. My tip - try more songs like the disco-tastic Love Kills on Lee's site rather than the ballads. It will make you stand out more :)
~ And while we are predicting 2007 stuff (just like our 7 to watch in 2007), Music Week went on and on today about how there are so many female artists releasing new albums in first quarter of 2007 - including Kylie & Sophie Ellis Bextor (yay), Dido, Delta Goodrem and Kelly Clarkson (meh!) and Norah Jones and Lucie Silvas (zzzzz). Still you can't go wrong with the first two can you? And of course, if you read yesterday's post you'll all be as excited as me that Deborah Gibson is coming back. Yep, take it from me - first quarter 2007 is going to yield some great female music...
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LINK: Lee Mulhern's myspace page
LINK: Streetwize's myspace page
MP3: Lee Mulhern - Love Kills
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THE ZAPPING RECORD COMPANY PROJECT 2007:
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Remember when we told you that we were going to attempt to be a record company in 2007 and pick & choose singles for a select bunch of artists? no? Better click here and refresh your memory... Anyway, how it will work is that there will be 13 artists who will each release one single every 13 weeks. That's four singles over the course of the year. The single release will be promoted on here and you will be able to vote on where you think it would chart based on the rest of that week's releases...Now don't roll your eyes, it will be interactive, contributory fun :) Trust me :) Anyway, I have picked a certain number of artists for the "roster" (listed below), but will need 3 more to complete the line-up. And that is where you get to choose - they can be signed, unsigned, famous, breaking out, anyone you like, but they must have at least four songs to their repertoire... Suggest away dudes...

• ~ Simon Curtis
• ~ Gavin Mikhail
• ~ Justin Lanning
• ~ Switch-22
• ~ Lockdown
• ~ Billiam
• ~ Beyond
• ~ Conor
• ~ Pacific Avenue
• ~ Deborah Gibson

QUICK BITZ/BLOG WATCH:
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~ Lots going on in the land of The Feeling right now. Love It When You Call is out on Monday and I can't wait - two new b-sides and a Lo-Fi-Fnk remix. Plus a competition to win a phonecall from The Feeling? I would so love it if they called :) (he loves it when you call, boys...)
~ Why is the guy on the far left dressed up to look like granny crooner Ronan Keating (can i get away with saying that if I like Westlife??)
~ Goodness, it's all coming together for Mika... not only is he on Jools Holland on Friday, but he has a digital download EP out on Monday called Dodgy Holiday, and his debut album will be out in the new year preceeded by the brillo Grace Kelly...
~ Check out Daniel Kirkley rocking the essential black tie/white shirt on the set of his video for My New Dawn...
~ There is a new Abi Ryan track on her producer Jim's myspace page called Nothing Can Compare...

~ Remember when Heat was good - here is a vintage letter from yours truly from early 2004. They like me, they really like me...
~ We like Dan's blog - he quotes erasure, likes brillo pop music, comes up with lists of songs that have order and reason to them, likes the best Madonna b-side ever (Supernatural), has a wife who deserves a medal for being in labour for about 3 weeks and looks suspiciously like Dr Who. Marv.
~ I liked him for about 3 minutes last week, but now am over him. But if you are so inclined, you can download (for sample purposes only of course) Chris Daughtry's album over at Kimberley's excellent festive blog...
~ It's always nice when other bloggers you admire mention your work. Thanks Arjan for the shout out to my scissor sisters review :)
~ Nick's brilliant idea of doing a "mix cd cover" for the mp3s he posts is now up - quality music resides at AlienHits...
~ What About Brian gets a full season? YAY!
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Coming soon: A little interactive thing we like to call The Zapping Myspace X-Factor audition post (catchy huh?); a fashion update; some more lists at the weekend over on the spinoff blog; gay singers; crappy but addictive tv; 24 days of Christmas; more on the feeling and mika; a christmas gift guide of what you can buy me, er i mean buy your loved ones... and so much more its not even funny. Well some of it will be a little funny...

Posted by Paul 1:00 PM 5 comments

Labels: ben elton, eton road, jean, record company project, them

Same old brand new hair
Wednesday, November 15, 2006

I went and had my hair cut by the lovely PaulHair (as we call him to avoid confusion) to perk myself up a bit. Paul always does a good job, but he has excelled himself this time. I love my new spikier, more styled than ever new 'do! Plus I kinda think it looks a little like Ben Adams hair. And having popstar hair is never a bad thing. Maybe i have blogstar hair?? (god i look rough in the pic!)

Posted by Paul 11:51 AM 6 comments

What are you famous for?

Well you think you have your post all planned out for the day and then a rather exciting mp3 arrives in your inbox that makes you rearrange everything. But isn't that what is great about blogs - they are so spontaneous, even more so than newspapers and you can gauge people's reactions to things within minutes of an mp3 leaking or some news snippet report. By the way has anyone else been watching telenovela Desire that airs on MyN in the states and just started on Trouble over here. It is corny, ridiculous, cheesy, is on a quality level with the late lamented (by me) Sunset Beach and thus i am totally addicted already. Expect something more on that soon!! Anyway on with the post for today, kicking off with that surprise mp3...
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THE ONE THAT CAN DO NO WRONG:
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Major Le Sigh. It's true - and it's certainly no secret that my favourite female singer of all time by quite a long shot is the artist formerly known as Debbie - Deborah Gibson. Heck, this blog was even originally named after a line in her Electric Youth single. At the turn of the millenium, fans were treated to the amazing pop album MYOB (2001) and then an album of lesser known broadway standards Coloured Lights (2003). Things went a bit quiet then, with non music based projects moving to the foreground (Playboy; Skating with Celebrities) - although we got the classic Naked single and a so so duet with Jordan Knight. Luckily, it seems a new album is on the horizon and lead off track Famous has been sent to fans. A funky jaunt taking a dig at those famous for being famous, the song is rich with guitar licks, driving beats and an of course impeccable vocal from my fave lady. And just because Deborah must know I love my ballads from her, she has posted a gorgeous track called Sounds Like Love from her new movie Coffee Date. More on that later in the week. For now, sit back, relax and let fame wash over you...
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LINK: Deborah Gibson official site
LINK: Deborah Gibson myspace page
MP3: Deborah Gibson - Famous
MP3: Deborah Gibson - Sounds Like Love

THE ONE THAT NEARLY GOT AWAY:
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In preparation for tomorrow's post on what books i am totally feeling right now, i thought i would link this little preview in to music. I just finished Gary Barlow from Take That's autobiography "my Take" and I have to say it was a pretty amiable read. It's always interesting to me to see people's take on their most famous years and Gary is refreshingly honest about his own ego and flaws that lead to his fall from grace hitting him heavy and hard. For those of you that don't know, when Take That split it was Gary who was meant to be the huge solo star. And indeed he took his first two singles to number one. Then Angels happened for Robbie Williams and as much as I love the guy, he treated Gary abominally in the press, stating that it was he that had been the talent in Take That, not Gary. In effect, Robbie sabotaged Gary's career by using his own popularity to verbally abuse and pour scorn. If that was a "real" workplace, there certainly would have been a case for bullying and harrassment. But the damage was done and Gary's career lasted two short albums. Which is a shame, because while those albums were in no way perfect, they certainly had glimpses of Gary's songwriting ability. Forever Love and Open Road from the first album were natural progressions from Take That and are great little pop gems. Superstar and Lies from the second album continue to showcase what Take That would have sounded like if they had continued. Gary then turned his attention to writing and wrote songs for Delta Goodrem, Blue, Atomic Kitten, Lara Fabian and many others. The closest we got to a 3rd Gary Barlow album was his collaboration with Donny Osmond on What I Meant To Say. Gary wrote and produced the majority of the tracks and it's hard not to imagine him singing them. Breeze is a super little ditty and there are numerous others on the set - not groundbreaking, but timeless classic pop. They say what is past is also prologue and Gary's influence is all over the new Take That songs, yet there is a certain something that suggests the group is more collaborative than ever. Let's just hope they are back for good...
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LINK: Informative Gary Barlow fansite
LINK: Purchase Gary's autobiography
MP3: Gary Barlow - Forever Love
MP3: Gary Barlow - Open Road
MP3: Gary Barlow - Superhero
MP3: Gary Barlow - Lie To Me
MP3: Donny Osmond - Breeze On By
MP3: Donny Osmond - What I Meant To Say
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THE ONES THAT COULD HAVE BEEN MANAGED BETTER:
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It started off so well. Lead off single Thinking It Over was fairly fresh and original for a pop band at the time, with a garage influenced beats over a smooth R'n'B jaunt. Sure Doin It was a slight blip, but everything was back on track when Liberty X's Just A Little hit the top spot for four weeks in May 2002. Hit after hit followed including gorgeous ballad Holding On For You and Richard X classic Being Nobody... but as soon as Everybody Cries from sophomore set failed to make the top ten, fear and doubt set in at Liberty X camp and their career has been mismanaged since. Only 3 singles into the second album, it was abandoned when tracks like Whatcha Doing Tonight and The Poet could easily have been singles. After an extended break, the group came back with the gospelly Song 4 Lovers and an album laden with potential singles. But once again, the opportunity was lost. Instead a dodgy disco cover was released as the Children in Need single and tracks like Then There Was You, Dirty Cash and X (although touted as a potential single) all went unnoticed. So below is what i present to you as my ultimate Liberty X greatest hits - they should have left the dodgy cover versions for a christmas release greatest hits. People are so much more forgiving then - how else do you explain the Girls Aloud/Tiffany monstrosity...???
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Thinking It Over
Doing It
Just A Little
Got To Have Your Love
Holding On For You
Being Nobody
Jumpin
Everybody Cries
Watcha Doing Tonight (mp3)
The Poet
Song 4 Lovers
Then There Was You
Dirty Cash (mp3)
X
Divine Intervention
A Night To Remember
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THE ONE THAT GOT STRIPPED:
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I kinda forgot about John Mayer. There he was, making me sing a long all summer to a song about running through the halls of your high school (which i used to do, usually followed by a bunch of guys yelling "get him - its homopaul!" Aah memories...) and then i didn't remember to check out what he was doing next and got into Teddy Geiger instead. Oops. My bad. I wouldn't say I'm a huge fan of John, but his music can be a pleasant diversion even though he gets less hot with each album he releases. But after listening to his stripped performance (see link), it sounds like his new music brings together all his influences - Waiting for the World has some gorgeous guitar in it and socially conscious lyrics while Jimi Hendrix cover Bold As Love shows he still has magnetism and power as a performer. I may have to check out his new disc after all... .
LINK: John Mayer's Stripped Performance
MP3: John Mayer - Waiting For The World (Stripped)
MP3: John Mayer - Bold As Love (stripped)

QUICK BITZ/BLOGWATCH:

~ 7 to watch in 2007 mini update: New pics of Pacific Avenue over at their official photographers blog. Check them out - we love this band. A lot. Thanks for the heads up azzy :) Plus Justin Lanning has a new video diary up on his site - i've tried out what he suggests in the video and it's quite delish. Check out ep 2 of Justin's World...

~ Last Thursday's Greys Anatomy was a classic - half the hospital staff (male) on a camping trip was inspired. The chief's uncomfortableness with Joe and Walter's relationship was too hilarious as he tried to be cool with the gays :) "I have a gay cousin. Brokeback mountain. I'm hip!" Genius!! But the baby storyline ~ get me a tissue :(

~ OOOooo - finally - some Dangerous Muse news over at Arjanwrites. It seems they will be continuing with sporadically releasing EPs every now and then for the forseeable future. Just hurry with an album boys...

~ haven't effused over Nick's blog for a while, but it's still as brilliant as ever. check out the frankly quite weird b-side to the frankly quite good Lovelight from Robbie Williams...

Coming soon: A walk down the Avenue(s); Definitely something v soon on Jean and THEM; most probably something on Jack's Mannequin and some other "alternative bands"; A fresh wave of fresh faced myspace singers; more info on TheZapping Record Company project; a fashion feature; gay singers (blame Observer Music Monthly); the 24 days of Christmas; Zapping guest writers during my holiday; that lengthy Lois and Clark piece; Books; and no doubt lots more inbetween the moon and new york city...

Posted by Paul 7:33 AM 11 comments

Labels: deborah gibson, gary barlow, john mayer, liberty x, take that

England is our spiritual home...
Tuesday, November 14, 2006

There are lots of songs about Monday are there not? Manic Monday, Monday Monday, Tell Me Why I Don't Like Mondays et al... but i cannot think of a single song with Tuesday in the title. Unless i'm being utterly thick. Which is not unlike me. Perhaps you could enlighten me if you are not too busy?? Anyway, i'm currently trying to learn some new Christmas songs on the piano and it's a bit frustrating that they don't sound quite as brilliant as I want them to. Still, practice makes perfect and all that. I am still off work for another 3 (!) weeks so will have plenty of time to let my fingers work their magic (that will please DazPleasure). That may also be why my blogs are so freaking long at the moment. Ooo Crystal Gayle is singing Jingle Bells to me - how lovely...
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THE CONTINUING CONCERT ADVENTURES OF RUTHIEPOOS & PAUL (& DAZPRACATAN AND LOU!!)
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It really amused me that someone on The Feeling forum said they enjoyed reading my blog for the continuing adventures of Ruthiepoos! She is getting as famous as DazPanteloons! Hehe... Anyway last night we trekked from the apartment through the dodgy part of Birmingham to go and see the Scissor Sisters in concert at the National Indoor Arena... which of course was packed with girls in cowboy hats and feather boas, and gays in sparkly tee shirts. I looked positively demur... I have to say overall, while i absolutely love the Scissters live, there was a certain something missing from the performance that i can't put my finger on. It was a great evening, but not as magnificent as the other times i have seen them. Here are some highlights and lowlights of the night though...
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~ The programmes were pricey but nice. An LP sized box contained some gorgeous photos and the band's feelings on making Ta-Dah and touring it around the world...
~ The support band The Gossip were rubbish. It was like watching a giant lava lamp osmose around the stage while someone skinned a cat. I was not impressed. At all...
~ Then there was an hour wait for the Scissters which was ok because we got to hear about Ruthiepoos new job and take poor quality mobile phone photos. Because we are hardcore party animals. I think Ruth dribbled on my cashmere sweater at some point too but i am not sure...??
~ When the Scissters entered the stage, they did so through those elevator doors on the front of their cd. Which is quite clever, no?
~ the first six songs were all magnificent in the extreme - i particularly liked when Del came up front at the instrumental outro of I Can't Decide (a definite audience fave) and did a funky little jig with Jake...
~ Ana Mantronic is the queen of on stage banter (take notes Sandi Thom!) - she dedicated Laura to the first lady ("may she rest in pieces someday") and Lights to two sisters in Ireland who chopped up their mom's boyfriend, and whom the press christened the Scissor Sisters ("you know you've made it when serial killers are named after you")...
~ Some of the songs were just plain not good live or in a weird order. I would've skipped Transistor altogether, put ballad Mary after the glorious Land Of A Thousand Words (the best bond theme never written and performed below thousands of twinkling lights - a definite highlight) leaving the show to be finished with two party stompers...
~ The encore was also super good and bought it all back together. Great lights show and the big screens had some great camera work during Filthy - constant live images changing instantly led to a frenetic but exhilarating viewing experience...
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SETLIST:
~ She's My Man
~ I Can't Decide
~ Tits On The Radio
~ Laura
~ Lights
~ Kiss You Off
~ Paul McCartney
~ Take Your Mama Out
~ Everybody Wants The Same Thing
~ Land Of A Thousand Words
~ Transistor
~ Comfortably Numb
~ Music Is The Victim (surely should have been a single?!)
~ Mary
ENCORE: I Don't Feel Like Dancing
ENCORE: Filthy/Gorgeous
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Check the spin off blog for a nostalgic visit to the last Scissters concert we all went to together...
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THE POP ROYALTY:
Yes, I'm still utterly excited about the return of my favourite boyband ever to the charts. Take That release their first new single in ten years digitally today with Patience finally being available on iTunes. It's a clever title insofar as it refers to the theme of the song, but also the long wait fans have endured for the hinted at return in their splitting up speech back in 1996... Two new songs on the single showcase the matured sound of the reformed group, while retaining their ability to put together timeless pop classics. Trouble With Me has gorgeous piano intro and multi layered harmony on the catchy chorus, that boasts pulsing guitars and a real cohesiveness between the group. Beautiful Morning is not too dissimilar - a great uplifting track that shows the band at the peak of their game. If the album is this good, I may explode.
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Similarly, Kylie is another act that has endured the harsh world of pop for many years. After a unappreciated (by some) diversion in the mid nineties, she emerged as the worlds leading popstrel in the new millenium and her comeback tour after beating cancer has the world eating out of the palm of her hand again. New song written with the Scissor Sisters "White Diamond" has been eagerly youtubed by fans all over the blogosphere, is definitely the spiritual successor to I Believe In You and has me practically salivating for new material. A showgirl indeed....
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MP3: Take That - Beautiful Morning
MP3: Take That - Trouble With Me
MP3: Kylie - White Diamond (live)
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THE S CLUB JUNIOR:
Aaah how i wanted to dislike Bianca Ryan. I'm not a big fan of tweens with large vocal capacity and hadn't even heard of the tv talent show that she won. But Simon Cowell adores her, and she certainly has an impressive voice that belies her young years. So against my better judgement, I have ended up liking her! Gah! Her debut album reminds me a little bit of Play's full length debut - not in terms of musical style, but in terms of liberally borrowing tunes that have been successful everywhere but America. And of course, Simon Cowell will use songs he knows and loves time and time again. Hence, Bianca's version of current Westlife chart-topper The Rose; a slightly strange version of Jamelia's Superstar (surely it would have been more fun for her to do Beware Of The Dog) and even a slowed down version of Hear'say's Pure and Simple. All not bad, some much better than others. Her version of I'm Telling You I'm Not Going is bloody amazing though...
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LINK: Purchase Bianca Ryan's debut album
MP3: Bianca Ryan - Superstar
MP3: Bianca Ryan - Pure and Simple
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QUICK BITZ/BLOG WATCH:
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~ 7 to watch in 2007 mini update! Justin Lanning (above with a very popstar plastic bag in background ;) ) has been interviewed for Error FM and is quite rightly their featured artist of the week. Click here to check out their website...

~ 7 to watch in 2007 mini update2! Gavin Mikhail is releasing his very fine album Like Normal People Do in Japan in early 2007, with two previously unreleased bonus tracks. Bonus indeed...

~ 7 to watch in 2007 mini update3! Pacific Avenue have some mighty fine black and white head shots up at their myspace site. Very boyband, very big in 2007 :)

~ Billiam have a cool live performance up on their myspace page or you can view it on my myspace profile. It's nice to see classic boyband coming back and these guys could give Eton Road a few tips about slick choreography...

~ You can stream Emma Bunton's new album over at her official site. I was cold towards her debut, loved her last album and seem to quite like this one so far - excluding the pointless but money raising so yay Downtown...

~ NOOOOOO! The Upper Room have split?! This is surely tragic news :( I am gutted :( I will do a post mortem soon and a bit of news on a new band rising out the ashes...

Coming soon: Definitely something on Gary Barlow; Definitely something v soon on Jean and THEM; most probably something on Jack's Mannequin and some other "alternative bands"; A fresh wave of fresh faced myspace singers; more info on TheZapping Record Company project; a fashion feature; gay singers (blame Observer Music Monthly); the 24 days of Christmas; Zapping guest writers during my holiday; that lengthy Lois and Clark piece; Books; and no doubt lots more inbetween the moon and new york city...

Posted by Paul 8:49 AM 11 comments

Labels: bianca ryan, kylie, scissor sisters, take that

with love from me to you...
Monday, November 13, 2006

Good Monday to you one and all. I decided to give myself a bit of a blogging break at the weekend by posting my "lists" over at TheZapping Spin Off blog that i had written up on another forum earlier in the year - and it took me almost as long anyway! Gah! But i do this blog because i love it and you can't keep me away from it for long ;) It's like my own little part of the universe where i control what's going on... I don't get thousands of visitors, but i'm always thrilled when people come back day after day :) I was well moody last night - i finally got round to watching a tv box set i'd had for a while only to find out there were two disc twos and no disc one! I've had it so long i can't remember where it's from. Ditto The Lion The Witch And The Wardrobe dvd... we couldn't get the subtitles to turn off for love nor money! There they were on the screen all the live long day! GAH! Then DazPropertyTycoon beat me at monopoly so I was well moody the rest of the night ;) Still on with today's randomness...
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THE JUDGEMENT FACTOR:
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Sigh. Part of the genius of The X Factor is that the judges are directly pitted against each other. This means you get slimey Louis Walsh siding with Sharon every opportunity he gets, Sharon giving little backhanded compliments because she's the "nice" one and Simon telling it like it is. Now on the one hand I have a lot of respect for Mr Cowell. He doesn't hold back on his opinions and is usually right. But then, he always seems to think an album of covers and ballads will surfice for the winner and consumer interest generally wanes shortly after this. So it was quite delightful to see Simon actually genuinely lost for words when his two acts tallied the lowest votes of the night. Tragic :) But prior to that there were only a few ok performances this week. To be honest, I really don't have any interest in Sharon's over 25 category and i think if i have to watch another week of Ray's hypermaniacal "dancing" swing tributes on stage, i'll be reaching for the cyanide. For me this show is still all about Eton Road (though Leona is absolutely genius - i'll let Samuel tell you why).... they put in another fun performance on Saturday of the Beatles' From Me To You (though what that middle eight was about i have no idea!) and if Louis lets them do either Don'cha or I Don't Feel Like Dancing next week as promised I will love him forever. PS. They should have done this boyband tribute though this week, ably performed here by lovely V... PPS. I still adore those slightly rubbish but loveable MacDonald Bros...
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LINK: Eton Road website
LINK: The Bitch Factor Blog site
MP3: Eton Road - From Me To You
MP3: V - Boyband Tribute
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THE AMRAZINGNESS OF MRAZ (see what i did there?!):
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Aw, I love little Jason Mraz. Over the past few years he has quietly and unassumingly worked his way up to one of my top five male singers. I love his laid back melodies, his clever wordy lyrics and his utterly geeky coolness aura that seems to surround everything he does. And not only has he put out a couple of great albums, he seems to constantly be recording little gems for other projects. I'm Yours (a b-side) perfectly soundtracks my feelings for DazPenicillin; a rather chilled out cover of One Love featured on The Gap cd; various other covers have popped up on other soundtracks and most recently a rather genius mash-up of The Joker and Everything I Own with Chrissie Hynde shows up on Happy Feet (some Penguin movie out this Christmas). It really shouldn't work, but it really does. Chrissie's voice with echo effect nicely complements the sometimes sexy Mraz and the whole track is another great entry into Jason's canon (steady!)...
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LINK: Jason Mraz's official website
LINK: Pre-order Happy Feet soundtrack
MP3: Jason Mraz - The Joker-Everything I Own
MP3: Jason Mraz - Summer Breeze
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THE RETURN OF THE MACS:
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It's about to get confusing in the world of ex-boyband acoustic pop rock. Because two similarly monikered popstrels are about to make a comeback in 2007, going down the serious musician trail. First up is Ste Mak (formerly of the excellent BBMak) who I previously wrote briefly about here. Armed with nothing but his distinctive vocal and a guitar, Ste is producing some great tunes that are a logical extension and maturation of his work in BBMak. Angels over New York is a great uplifting tune that with proper production could be an anthemic stadium sing a long track, while The Only One fair crackles along with an addictive energy that screams "first single status"... It will be interesting to hear what happens once these myspace demos hit the production line in readiness for public consumption...
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Next is Stewart Mac, formerly of boyband Triple8 (who gave us the crunk rock of Knockout and Give Me A Reason). It seems that every upcoming male solo star these days has the obligatory white shirt black tie photo shoot, but hey, Stewart looks good with it so who's complaining. Like Ste, Stewart has gone down the the acoustic pop route, with one difference. While Ste's songs are works of craft in progress, there is an instant accessibility with Stewart's music. He has a keen talent for developing a melody that will work it's way into your brain and make his songs a lot of fun to listen to. Actually, some of the tunes remind me of the great songs on Third Eye Blind's debut cd which i was obsessed with in the late 90s... Anyway apparently an album is forthcoming and I can't wait to hear it. At this stage in the game, i give the edge to Stewart...
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LINK: Ste Mak's myspace site
LINK: Stewart Mac's myspace site
MP3: Ste Mak - The Only One
MP3: Ste Mak - Angels Over New York
MP3: Triple8 - Knockout
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THE 5 BEST RETURNING SHOWS (SO FAR):
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Some shows that I have previously loved I am currently only sticking with out of loyalty and the hope that it will get better again soon (yes Lost, I'm talking about you...) - it's called The X-Files Syndrome. Others I haven't gotten around to watching just yet (Veronica Mars; Gilmore Girls) so this is based on everything else...
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5 - Veronica Mars/Gilmore Girls. Yes I know I haven't watched them yet, but i have such faith in their combined brilliance that I know they will be magnificent. I worry a little for the soft ratings of VM, but hopefully the CW will have faith to let it continue and build a solid audience on Tuesdays... and i hear that GG hasn't suffered at all for Amy Sherman-Pallidino's departure. Phew...
4 ~ Prison Break. It's like crack isn't it? You know the plots are utterly ludicrous. You know that no one else would be able to elude capture that many times or that there wouldn't really be that many corrupt officers chasing them. Yet it just reels me in week after week, like an exhilarating rollercoaster ride. Though I think i'd be quite happy if the story was completely wrapped up in season two... best not to drag it out. Don't want to make me sick...
3 ~ Smallville. After a crappy season 4, year 5 experienced something of a creative renaissance leading up to a great, if somewhat nostalgiac season finale. Fortunately the greatness has continued into season 6 - not in the least for the addition of leather clad bow slinger Green Arrow who looks to start up a Justice League. The promo ads look stunning and it's the only good thing to come out of the disappointingly not picked up Aquaman pilot,,,
2 ~ Desperate Housewives. Is back to being brilliant. Although actually i still really liked season 2 apart from that dodgy man in the basement storyline. Bree continues to hog all the best lines, Susan continues to have the best slapstick comedy and Lynette has the best neurotic mother role i've ever seen. Separately and together these wives are certainly at the top of their game this season...
1 ~ Grey's Anatomy. Well really, what else could it be. The only show since Felicity to string out a love triangle for so many seasons and still make it watchable, heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. Off set shenanighans seem to have overshadowed the storylines of late, but this is still my favourite drama on television at the moment. Viva McDreamy!!
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QUICK BITZ/BLOG WATCH:
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~ Another guilt free Mika download from Arjan - at this rate, I will soon have the whole album ;)
~ L'il Henry may not be able to post comments on my site (boo!) but he has set up a forum related to his Fetch Me... site. Well done that man :)
~ They are probably all from somewhere else, but Michel saves you having to look all over the place for an impressive array of video clips and photos from Kylie's Oz Tour...
Oh dear god - the winner of a show i never heard of has covered The Rose. Simon Cowell is SO original ;) Lovely Jessica has the goods. Oh my god. Someone help me. I really like it...
~ at this very minute in time DazPod is being very weird and slightly sexy with his iPod...
~ call me a geek (and lose your teeth ;) ) but it's quite exciting that Babylon 5 is making another movie, no?
~ Is this site for real? They have the whole Everwood collection on dvd, but is it legit??
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Coming soon ~ well it's the Scissor Sisters tonight with Ruthiepoos, so you know that's gonna feature; some more about TheZapping Record Company feature; that thing on Books probably linked into Gary Barlow; Lois and Clark; more up and coming myspacers; another fashion update; Jean; 24 Days of Christmas and lots more...

Posted by Paul 8:56 AM 7 comments

Labels: eton road, jason mraz, ste mak, stewart mac, x factor

This is not a post...
Saturday, November 11, 2006

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Although I am not posting "proper" again until Monday, I couldn't let the weekend go by without a shout out to one of my best friends, Richard who suddenly got very old this weekend. Not only is Richard one of the nicest, funniest people you could wish to meet, he has a hot fiance in Carly, a gorgeous baby daughter and is possibly the most uber-metrosexual bloke you could ever wish to meet. He is equally as happy discussing bum love as he is fanny love and has a mouth like a sea grizzled sailor. Even though he mocks my love of McFly by calling me his hard rocking gayer amigo, i am still super pleased I got to know Richard and stayed in touch despite the miles between us. Happy birthday matey!
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Sunday edit! Be sure to reread the article on Bliss in the post below this one and check out Jadion's comments on his upcoming involvement in the band!!
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NEW LINK: My top 20 pop acts revealed at TheZapping Spinoff Blog

LINK: My top 15 girl groups revealed at TheZapping Spinoff Blog
LINK: 2 New holiday diary entry over at Holiday Diaries

Posted by Paul 10:29 PM 10 comments

it's a one way destination
Friday, November 10, 2006

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Just when I think I am going to have nothing to write about and that I'm going to have make my posts shorter, I have an influx of ideas into my tiny little mind and have to jot them down on a pad somewhere because otherwise i totally forget and get frustrated when trying to remember. Which may actually be a sign of early onset working age dementia, but let's hope not, eh! Anyhoo, I had to go up to Boots chemist today and instead of just picking up my tablets, I ended up getting some more of that amazing Shower Burst gel in the can that gives the most amazing foam, some more L'Oreal for men products (because I'm worth it too...) and a 12 pack of condoms because they came with free lubricant. Now that's an offer you can't refuse!! Plus I felt all festive because everywhere was piping in Christmas music, and their were sparkling trees everywhere. Sigh. I've said it before and i'll say it again - it's the MOST wonderful time of the year...
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THE SUGA v SPICE, NOT ALL THINGS NICE:
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The new one from Sugababes that looks as rough as a badgers arse came to me in a dream last night and reminded me that as much as I've not connected to them as a group, they certainly rival if not equal Girls Aloud and Spice Girls for putting out a great run of catchy pop singles. The 'Babes have a habit of picking AMAZING first two or three brillo tracks as singles from albums, only to balls it all up with rubbish fourth songs (Shape Of My Heart, Caught In A Moment...) Sadly, their greatest hits collection ignores the best Christmas number one that never was (New Year), but still has perfect sculptures of pop excellence in Overload, Freak Like Me, Round Round, Hole In My Head, Push The Button and Red Dress. And much like seminal Girls Aloud songs (SOTU, Biology, The Show, Love Machine, Whole Lotta History) they aren't just pop songs but gorgeous little indelible reminders of how pop should be done. No their greatest hits collection isn't perfect, but it's a hell of a lot better than most...
NOTE! Be sure to check out my top 15 girl bands on the spin off blog tomorrow (which will include the Babes doing a cover of Rocks)...
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LINK: Purchase Sugababes' greatest hits cd
MP3: Sugababes - Push The Button (Napster acoustic session)
MP3: Sugababes - Easy (Napster acoustic session)
MP3: Sugababes - New Year
BONUS MP3: Starsailor - Push The Button
BONUS MP3: Orson - Push The Button
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THE BACKSTREET PRIDE LIVES:
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Let's face it, George isn't the most popstar name in the world. Even if you go by just the first name, it still lacks that certain je ne sais quoi. But it is rude to pick on people's names and I would actually probably possibly call my adopted child George if I can ever talk DazParent round... It doesn't matter what you are called though when a) you dress as well as George clearly does (i love people creating a look for themselves, it's an important part of pop music...) and b) when - under the watchful eye of Backstreet Boy Howie Dorough - you have created a fun and accessible dance-pop debut album entitled Believe. Awash with slick beats, soulful vocals, catchy melodies, harmonicas, a variety of styles from ballad to dance to soul to pop and still make it a cohesive album that pretty much works from start to finish. It's not the most original sound in the world, but if you are looking for a solid piece of work that pays tribute to classic r'n'b sounds from the past three decades wrapped up in silky smooth vocals, you could a lot worse than Believe...
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And while we're on the backstreet bandwagon, let's not forget Brian Littrell who went all religious on us earlier in the year with his debut album Welcome Home. If you are not into Christian music (and i'm not particularly, though i do like House of Love by Amy Grant), you may just want to check out the more ambiguous of the tracks and listen to My Answer is You and the title track. Both are radio ready pieces of pop that hustle and bustle with strumming guitars, daniel powter-esque catchy chorus and power pop vocals from Brian, that actually wouldn't sound too out of place on a new BSB album...
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LINK: Visit George's myspace site
LINK: Visit Howie's myspace site
LINK: Learn more about the Lupus Foundation
LINK: Visit Brian's myspace site
LINK: Purchase George's Believe cd
MP3: George - Talk To Me (remix)
MP3: George - I Wanna Love You (remix)
MP3: Brian Littrell - Welcome Home
MP3: Brian Littrell - My Answer Is You
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THE JADION CONNECTION:
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Let's face it - this time next year, Jadion could well be the producer to keep an eye on. That's not to say he isn't already, but I have faith that his acts (simon curtis and fayden) have what it takes to put some 'joi de vivre' back into the pop charts. And i'm not just saying that because he put me as one of his top friends on myspace ;) Now girl group Bliss are about to have some Jadion magic poured their way, although the songs previously on their site were older tracks with a different producer... Anyway, it at least caused me to check out Bliss' music and I'm glad I did. I don't often focus on girl bands but with Girls Aloud and Sugababes nearing the end of their shelf life (boo) and me not really liking PCD, Bliss are a refreshingly pop breath of fresh air :) They are very influenced by euro-pop and have cute vocal harmonies and faux-raps that kinda make you smile (in a good way!) while listening to the music. They are about to start working with Jadion on a cover version of a track that you wouldn't immediately think of but is bound to end up another slice of pop genius :) Viva Bliss!! Be sure to check back soon for some more of Jadion's artists...

EDIT: Be sure to read the comments for some news from Jadion himself - i can't wait for the hot tracks he is bound to produce for this promising act :)
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LINK: Jadion's myspace site
LINK: Bliss' myspace site
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THE 5 BEST NEW TV SHOWS OF THE SEASON:
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Although we are only about 7 episodes into the new tv season, it's clear what shows are great and what require a little more thought (yes Six Degrees, hang your head in shame). If the new season has taught us anything (and it hasn't), it's that JJ Abrams is sadly overextended and all three of his shows (Lost, Six Degrees and What About Brian) are suffering. Luckily, there are some real gems this season, including some i didn't think i would like at all...
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5. Brothers and Sisters ~ I wasn't expecting to like this at all. The pilot was reshot and the exec producer replaced - never a good sign. But whatever happened, it was for the best because we now have a mature addictive sudsy sunday night drama to enjoy. Sally Fields is great (we like her, we really like her) and there is gay snogging, so where can you go wrong?
4. Torchwood ~ Ok, it's not American, but it certainly is very good. This Doctor Who Spin-off proves that, apart from Bob and Rose, Russell T. Davis can do no wrong! As it's aimed more at adults than it's parents show, it's the Angel to Buffy and works very well. Plots are fast paced and interesting, there are gay "leanings" and intergalactic shannanighans. Trust me, Dan from Project 76 has much better write ups of this :)
3. Ugly Betty ~ aah finally a chick show that will gain a following to rival Sex and The City and Ally McBeal. Utterly ridiculous and thus utterly addictive, Channel 4 have bought this to firm up their Friday night schedule next year. Be sure to check it out, because as soon as you do you will be hooked on this delightfully frothy nonsense :)
2. Robin Hood ~ You would think with the huge pic above that RH would be number one. SAdly not, though it was very close. It just has quite a good looking cast ;) I'm not sure quite why i like Robin Hood so much. At times its a bit meandering and doesn't seem to know where it's going, but i love a good romance story and much like Lois and Clark, that is what keeps me hooked week after week. Plus that man can shoot his arrow well good!! ;)
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1. Heroes ~ I wasn't even going to watch this show, as i felt it sounded a little too familiar to the X-Men and 4400. However, DazPolitical, who is quite harsh about American tv shows got into it and I knew it had to be good. From inventive, sometimes morally ambiguous characters, the show has a good steady narrative, mixes humour with huge themes and seems to have a fair idea as to where it's heading. Premieres on the SciFi channel in England in Jan 07 so be sure to check it out. Plus Milo Ventimiglia is pretty fine, no?
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THE COMING SOON CATEGORY:

• 24 Days Til Christmas With The Zapping ~ although it is killing me to sit on all the great little Christmas treats I have for you all (and watch others post them first :O), sit on them I will until the first of december when you will be treated to 24 days of (fairly) themed posts and accompanying festive mp3s...
• 7 To Watch in 2007 ~ from January 1st, this feature will be a lot bigger, better and run more often, though not intefering with the usual gloriousness of my posts ;) Am not really sure how that's going to work yet, but work it will dammit!
• The Zapping Record Company Project ~ another feature will launch Jan 1st 2007, where I will pick several acts for a fictitious record label (some famous, some up and comers) and for 12 months plan what singles they put out from albums, when - but you decide how well they do! Ooo excitement he wrote....

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QUICK BITZ/BLOG WATCH:
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~ not to be too excited, but from Nov 15th, Starbucks are offering a card you can preload with credit and use around the world. When you spend as much at La Bucks as I do, this is tres exciting news...
~ Check out utterly adorable looking new blog Bubblegumpoppop! It's so pink and inviting. You just kinda wanna dive right in :) Also be sure to check out Chad's blog... not only does he have good looking friends, but he loves Wicked and kind of fancies Robin Hood. Genius!
~ Jessica has a post on the general genius of Take That and references my soon to be beloved Eton Road. What a little treat...
~ Congratulations to Sounds of Sweden on their 100th post :)
~ Bloggers around the globe are creaming themselves that Girls Aloud covered Amy Winehouse in Live Lounge today. And rather marvelous their version is too. Two of my faves seem to have got there first though - Samuel Hotstuffguy and darling Xo...
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Coming soon: No posts til Monday, but check back for reminders tomorrow on where to see my top 15 girl groups and my top 20 pop acts :) Have a great weekend!!

Posted by Paul 1:54 PM 9 comments

Labels: bliss, brian littrell, george, jadion, sugababes, tv

california dreaming
Thursday, November 09, 2006

Gosh, well lots to get through today people. Without saying too much though, how VERY disappointing was the fall finale of Lost last night? I can't help but feel it would have been much better if ABC had held over the show and premiered it in January for an uninterrupted run a la 24. But what would i know?? I can't be greedy and be a tv advisor as well as guiding pop careers in danger of veering off "the rails". That would be selfish. Today i have the exciting task of booking our airport parking for our holiday in a few weeks. And i think we may hire a car while we are there. Ruthiepoos is in Gran Canaria right now, and has apparently been to some dodgy leather clubs with some Danish bears. Saucy...
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THE VOICE:
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It's not very often I click open a myspace page and am totally halted in my tracks by the stunning vocals of one of the many myspace music acts out there. But when i was looking through some of my friends that i had just randomly accepted adds from, I clicked on Daniel Kirkley's page and that's exactly what happened. His stunning baritone (?) voice was wrapped around a track called My New Dawn, which not only features his soaring vocal (somewhat akin to Josh Groban, but somehow more accessible); but swirling strings, a gorgeous piano melody and great inspirational lyrics in the verse and catchy chorus. Indeed, I can actually see Westlife "borrowing" this track for their 2007 Christmas single. To be honest, it's shocking to hear this great voice come from this unassuming guy - it's such a powerful vocal. And you know that I have to have likeability in my popstars... Daniel has put a webisode of the making of his My New Dawn single on his myspace site, and he comes across as a thoroughly grounded and likeable chappy. Plus, he has good popstar hair and that is always a huge plus. I'm eager to hear more from this rising star...
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LINK: Daniel's myspace site
LINK: Daniel's official site
LINK: Purchase Daniel's Points of Grace cd
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THE CALIFORNIA DREAMERS:
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The Magic Numbers second album "Those The Brokes" shows that they are indeed channelling the spirits of Wilson Phillips. Sacrilege? Not at all - La Phillips remain one of my very fave girl groups of all time and I adored The Magic Numbers debut cd... both acts (although a good 15 years apart) had debut albums full of breezy sun drenched pop tunes soaked in tight harmonies and strumming guitars. Indeed, Ruthiepoos and I can't imagine seeing MN play in the winter as it wouldn't seem right... However, whereas WP embodied all that was perky and upbeat in their songs, the perky music of Magic Numbers hid lyrics of heartbreak and betrayal, a theme that both acts tackled on their second albums. For Wilson Phillips, it was a more mature, certainly darker effort for them - and ultimately, less successful, which led to the band splitting for 13 years. The Magic Numbers second album however, stays faithful to the style of the first, which if you liked it, is great. The question is, is it different enough to attract new fans? Well, lead off single (the glorious Take A Chance), This Is A Song and You Never Had It are radio friendly hits waiting to happen. Yet mid album you come across Undecided where a more bluesy rootsy sound takes hold - and works incredibly well. Overall a solid sophomore set that may not win new fans, but will certainly solidify the substantial base they already have...
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And while we're at it, what's with the rubbishy Wilson Phillips greatest hits collections floating around? After the perfectly pleasant California covers album came out 2 years ago, it was the perfect time to put together all WP group stuff, some Chynna solo and The Wilsons album into one collection, like so...

1. Hold On
2. Release Me
3. Impulsive
4. You're In Love
5. The Dream Is Still Alive
6. Daniel
7. You Won't See Me Cry (mp3)
8. Give It Up
9. Flesh and Blood
10. It's Only Life
11. I Hear You (mp3)
12. Chynna Phillips - Naked And Sacred (mp3)
13. Chynna Phillips - When 2000 Comes
14. Chynna Phillips - I Live For You
15. The Wilsons - Monday
16. The Wilsons - Everything I Ever Need (mp3)
17. The Wilsons - Miracle

LINK: Buy Magic Number's Those The Brokes cd
LINK: Buy Wilson Phillips California cd
MP3: The Magic Numbers - This Is A Song
MP3: The Magic Numbers - Undecided
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THE SHOULD'VE BEENS (an occasional feature):
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Reality pop hasn't been kind to the majority of acts it has spewed out. Alex Parks? Steve Brookstein? One True Voice? And so on and so on... anyway one of the premiere reality pop acts in Britain (this century) was of course Hear'say. 5 kids picked entirely by the judges (this was before the potential for audience involvement was fully realised) it was more MTV real world than the X Factor/American Idol shows you watch today. In two short years Hear'say went from being the hottest band on the planet to a national joke. And i believe it was because their career was mismanaged. They should have led off with great double AA side Bridge Over Troubled Waters/Monday Monday before moving onto their two number one singles Pure and Simple and the superior Show Me The Way To Your Love (that i'm a whizz at on the piano - just ask DazPopsensation...). And they certainly moved onto the second album far too quickly, leaving some gems from an admittedly messy debut unloved. Gentle ballad Carried Away should have been the next single, followed by anthemic Love Never Dies at Christmas (when Everybody was released) - and as it was Christmas, why not throw their cover of Boogie Wonderland as AA side? Then move onto Everybody and be sure to mine the Cathy Dennis penned highlights like Suddenly. Sigh. If only Hear'say had me as a manager, maybe their greatest hits would be more fleshed out than my imaginary one below...

1. Bridge Over Troubled Water
2. Monday Monday
3. Pure and Simple
4. The Way To Your Love
5. Carried Away
6. Love Never Ends
7. Boogie Wonderland (mp3)
8. Everybody
9. Suddenly (mp3)
10. Angel In My Heart
11. You're All I Need To Get By
12. Straight From The Heart
13. I Knew You Were Waiting (mp3)
14. Lovin' Is Easy
15. If You Wanna Roll With Me (unreleased) (mp3)