Lopez Blogs

As you will be aware from Monday's rather gushing post, I am excited about the Ballroom Remixed project and have written about many of the artists involved before. Today children, Ballroom Remixed is bought to you by the letter "J" as I investigate some of the artists I've not been aware of in the past. These are presented for your approval below...

Jeronimo ~ I do enjoy a decent teen idol and it's nice to witness one in the making. Jeronimo is a charming young fella (so young, i'm pretty sure he wasn't born when I was first following my teen idols like Tommy Page) who is embracing his opportunities in the music industry with gusto. And why not indeed? Because in this world of vocodered vocals and indecipherable beats, Jeronimo's debut single, Superman (featuring Stay C of pop sensations Twenty4Seven no less! Pop historians may now squeal!!) is a solid bouncy slice of enjoyable pop with a superb vocal effort from the young dude himself. It's drenched in island rhythms with a hip swivelling beat that no doubt gives him the perfect experience to be part of the Ballroom Remixed project. The lyrics are endearingly naive, as he believes that being good enough will be enough to get his lady friend. Add to this a cute as new born puppies video (he gets the girl!) and it's a solid effort that demands repeat listening in the summer sun. Dazzling :)


Joshua Desjardins ~ I'll admit it. I always have the allure for someone who wears a bow tie and embraces his inner nerd. It makes me wish i wore braces/suspenders more often (although...)! Anywho, hoping to be more successful than the last Joshua in pop (poor Mr DuBovie) is one Joshua Desjardins who is currently wowing New York with his man cabaret show, Nerds Among Us. Not only is the title deserving of a one hour dramedy on THE CW, but it gives Mr D the opportunity to show off his range of bow ties, his razor sharp wit and his jolly fine singing voice. Not only is there a riotous rip through the song Les Poissons (retitled Desjardins) from my 7th fave Disney musical, Little Mermaid (one of several I could play from start to finish on the piano without skipping a bit), but for those who want a delightful taste of what this geeky dream is about, check out his crush-on-Obama admitting run through Bridge Over Troubled Water/Waiting On The World To Change. He goes from comedy to having you in the palm of his hand with his lovely, earnest singing style in seconds. It's genuinely exquisite. Can't wait to see what he brings to Ballroom :)


Jerry Reid ~ To be honest, very little is known about Jerry Reid. Having looked at his website, i can present you with some facts: He has been blessed with amazing pop star hair, which is very important to me. He can turn his hand to rock that's as sombre as anything from Kelly Clarkson's My December (Happy New Year shows off his gravelly vocal to fine effect and makes me hope for something uptempo and a bit rockabilly on Ballroom). There are several videos of him on you tube, though none particularly recent so may not be indicative of his current musical leanings. This makes him a bit of a mystery and one that I want to solve. So I look forward to hearing what he brings to Ballroom Remixed, seeing if he still has amazing hair and I'm pretty sure he'll continue to win me over with his slightly dangerous vocal style. I'm giddy with anticipation...

I love a bit of new music I do. It's always exciting to follow new acts, all ready to take their place on the pop stage and be as magnificent as they can be. or something. Increasingly, I find that there are better singers on youtube and la twitter than there are in the actual charts, but what do I know... Any"hoo", here are 3 lovely new (to me) acts that you should spend some time with this week getting to know a whole lot better...

Craig Powell ~ Remember Uniting Nations? Well Craig used to sing for them, but now he's uniting music lovers everywhere (and getting them to hug!) with his enticing blend of dance, pop and trance. It's a heady mix that JLS have tried to perfect (on One Shot and Eyes Wide Shut) and The Wanted are giving a good bash (on their brillo new single Gold Forever), but Craig gets it right straight out the gate with his delectable single Can't Let You Go. It's powered by a throbbing, vibrant beat that pulses with energy and is more than enough to get you doing your "thang" on the dancefloor on a saturday night. I also need a nice pop melody there are singable verses and catchy refrains such as "don't stop moving baby/i can't let you go" reverberating throughout. Tremendulent. And then there's the video - it may be done on a budget, but it's charmingly effective and has several things to like about it: Craig's jacket is lovely, I'd quite like one like that I think; the cute as a button couple being all coy and flirtatious with each other; and the ingenious flashmob literal take on the title as a g-rated All The Lovers takes place in a busy shopping centre with lots of people hugging each other during the chorus. Quite lovely as it happens. Buy it here!


Oliver Wimmer ~ Let's get the obvious out the way immediately. Oliver has excellent pop star hair. While this may have no baring on whether his music is bonza or not, it's certainly a step in the right direction. Oliver hails from Austria, where i have spent many a lovely summer exploring the foothills of the Tyrol region (though he might actually be German. I'm confused). His music isn't like any of the tradtional folk music I heard there however. It's more of Maroon 5, given a euro-pop remix. His single (put forth for this year's Eurovision) is the rather funky Let Love Kick In. It's riddled with down and dirty guitar licks and drum riffs that drive the track forward, yet it's all held ably together by Oliver's quite sexy vocal style that absolutely shines as he ranges between his lower register and a sparkling falsetto. The chorus is initially unassuming but ultimately quite insidious as it worms it's way into your head. I'd like to hear more please (and I did - he had me at The Story Of How I Lost Christmas. Amazes).


Austin Jennings ~ It would be lazy and poor penmanship to say that Sirius XM Search for LGBT Popstar winner Austin Jennings is like a male Adele. But it would be a good start and get you on the right sort of page (or at least within the right chapter) for what to expect. What is instantly clear with Austin is two things - firstly, he has an incredibly distinctive voice that draws you inextricably into whatever emotional tale he is spinning with his music. Secondly, you can absolutely and wholly tell that Austin grew up listening to classic pop, rich in melody and story telling. His astonishingly good single Damages casts a musical spell by weaving a shuffling beat together with strumming guitar, gutwrenching lyrics and the warm addition of resonant strings that provide added layer and depth to the tune. The middle 8 is a truly melodic feast as Austin firmly knits the tune together with the skill of a veteran that belies his young age. Definitely a worthy winner of the aforementioned contest, and like Adele an impressive talent for such a young age. Music that makes you want to give him a hug...

Continuing the discussion from Monday and how the onslaught of social media has changed the way pop careers are launched (and destroyed)... today it's a look at breaking down the barriers between fan and artist and how perhaps now more than ever fans can be intimately involved in the creation and launch of their hot new faves latest release. Many people have used this to their increasing advantage - for example, Simon Curtis built up a huge twitter following by offering free tracks once his twitter followers had reached certain levels. It worked and now 19,000 hang on his every word and eagerly await his next album. But there are other, more cost effective ways to encourage fan - let's see what one young English troubadour has up his sleeve...


I've written about Luke Leighfield a few times. His third album "Have You Got Heart?" (turns out I have) had me utterly enchanted. For those too lazy to click on the link for my review, it's essentially a giddy and enticing mixture of saucy Queen-esque guitar riffs, Billy Joel via Ben Folds piano chords, achingly memorable melodies and a sterling vocal delivery infused with passion and emotion from the singer himself. He's created these songs from scratch and worked extraordinarily hard to get them out there for public consumption and his love for music and melody shine through in each note, each nuanced vocal inflection, each bitingly relatable lyric. Added to this was my obsession with his Christmas single I'm So Confused By Christmas this festive season which made me resolve to be a better person. And it's insightful view of Christmas life would have fitted perfectly onto Have You Got Heart. If you haven't already heard that album you should really check it out now - follow Luke on twitter for details of how to purchase. And do so quickly because it's time to move on. Luke announced today that he is ready to record his next album, New Season. He's written the songs and he promises they will be amazing - i've no reason to doubt him, particularly if the song above (New Season with the We Heart Arts Band) is on the album. I mean, that song alone takes a driving beat, crashing cymbols, some wonderfully intricate piano work and guitar licks that make me tired and exhilarated watching them all at the same time. Sadly, Luke is out of money. I mean it takes time to be a full time musician, marketing yourself, making music and getting it out there. Bring on Project New Season. For an initial upfront investment of varying levels you can get everything a guaranteed copy of the cd to your own song to a show in your living room to Luke being at your general disposal for a day! You don't see Lady Gaga doing this! You can learn all about the different offers available by visiting this website AND watching this video. Viewing of the video is absolutely essential. It not only shows how utterly charming Luke actually is, but evidences thathe scrubs up well in a suit, demonstrates he has a great sense of humour and showcases his tres bon taste in music (there's a bit of Annie Lennox's Walking On Broken Glass as well as Vanessa Carlton's A Thousand Miles). Add to this a cheeky wink from his photographer, a full run down of products on offer and 10% of all money going to Christian Aid and you'll be whipping out your credit card and begging Luke to take your money. And quite rightly so. He's going places and you can help him get there. Now let's finish with his cover of the lovely Nerina Pallot's Real Late Starter which is equally as brillo as Joe McElderry's cover only in very different ways.

There is always a massive plethora of new acts and new music out there, that it is often very hard indeed to keep up. New acts need something to draw attention to them - sometimes that is an image or a clever song title or a bit of a gimmick. For me, it will always be a catchy hook no matter what genre the act likes to dabble in. Here are 2 that have caught my eye (not literally, though it is a bit bloodshot today) this very week who you might want to check out...

THE VETTES ~


Imagine a group whose pop meets fuzzy modern rock is so incredibly addictive and moreish that their entire debut album plays like a greatest hits. Imagine elements of amazing band Garbage, delicious 80s synths and a front woman as compelling as Lady Gaga (only without the pork chop dress). Add some dance beats and deliriously wonderful melodies and you have five piece band known as The Vettes. They have a contagious zest for modern day celebrity and approach it with fun and enthusiasm on their brilliantly titled debut album "Plasticville". It's an album filled with clever lyrics (I personally love the song about L'il Wayne) and anthemic choruses (Give Em What They Want is a well deserved choice for single). They gently mock celebrity but make no bones about wanting to be part of that ludicrous culture. It's this self deprecating sincerity mixed with their fun factor that makes them an absolute riot to listen to and I can only imagine how joyful they are to see live. Totally brillopants and so worthy of your time. PS - while definitely a group full of lookers, Chad is a bit of a corker :)

THE LITTLE STEVIES ~

Many a fine group has emerged from down under. My latest obsession is of course Amy Meredith, but now I have the Little Stevies to add to an ever growing list (what's going on with VanShe?) Not only do they provide me with a fine level of engaging musical goodness, but i've spent many an hour on their interactive website this week, watching video diaries of their various shenanighans over the past 12 months. It's their hard work and musical talent that has paid off - they've won various grants over the past year to help them tour and promote their music internationally. The results of that are a brand new single entitled Feel It. It's a beautifully ethereal track that matches solid, percussive acoustic beats with a strumming guitar. Melodically it's all kept together by a quirky and effective female vocal in the verses and lovely harmonies during the chorus. The video is a hoot too, with the band undertaking various dance routines while getting their groove on. And all in one take! Marvelous. Oh and dude watch? The waistcoat wearing guitarist is a tall drink of water :)

Weds ~ revitalising dormant album campaigns part one; Thurs ~ Morning Jolt!!

The album megamix is here - scroll down to youtube video for review!

As Duchess Kylie of Minogue once sagely pointed out, it's no secret. No secret indeed that one of (perhaps indeed my very fave) fave acts ever to emerge from the X-Factor is the sunny as a sunny side up egg on toast splendiferous pop duo Same Difference. More than anyone to appear on the show, the embraced their love of great pop music week in week out until they were crowned 3rd place finalists and unleashed their magnificent debut album (suitably titled "Pop") onto the world. It's perceived failuure (it did actually sell well over 100,000 copies) is a mystery. Beyond the bouyant single We R One lay a number of other gems ready to get nipping at chart success including the smart, sleek dance ditty All Roads Lead to Heaven and gloriously swooning shuffle bug Better Love Me. And lets not forget the criminally unreleased PWL remix of Turn It Into Love...
Thankfully Sean and Sarah were not down and out. They relaunched themselves onto the pop world last August with a striking new look, a sexy down and dirty in the club video (the little scamps)and a punchy new single called Shine On Forever (Photo Frame). That and a song they've played live a few times (Souled Out) both showed that their mission statement is still to produce great pop music, but making sure it has a grown up edge to it. Sharp beats, booming chorus, memorable melody. This is all very promising for their second album which they released copious amounts of information about this week. Entitled The Rest Is History, it's a bold statement as Sean & Sarah power forth, determined to bring quality, cheeky, fun pop to the masses. What I love about the title is that not only could it be the title of a greatest hits album but it signifies that while they certainly are not ashamed of their past output, it's time to set aside your preconceptions and just enjoy. The brilliant cover image seems to reflect this. Present are their previous iconic images (bubblegum pop for We R One, sexy clubbers for Shine On Forever) but front and centre are the delightful duo looking dynamite and determined. Sean frankly looks entirely edible while for some reason I absolutely adore the slightly awkward poseable doll leg tilt/toe tap of Sarahs.

EDIT (12/1/11) To accompany the excitement of the album cover, an album megamix is now fully available to have a listen to and gives you an idea of what The Rest Is History will sound like. I've already commented on Souled Out and Shine On Forever (and you can read my thoughts on buzz track Karma Karma below) so here are some thoughts on the other juicy goodness that lies within. Euphoria is an instant Topham & Twigg classic (I met them once, nearly fainted with excitement. The shame). It's like the Same Difference declaration of independence; their coming of age if you will. It's a full out dance number with a huge chorus that hears them cry "i wanna be outrageous/i don't care where it takes us"... and the type of song that truly echoes the title, particularly with those booming beats, spiralling synths and the type of OTT production that this tune needs and deserves. The title track sounds like it should've been their winners single on X Factor if things had turned out a little differently. It already sounds like a Christmas number one to me - there are chimes in there, an inspiring chorus and musical nods to Glee and High School Musical. It's more relaxed than Euphoria but still fizzes along nicely. Heartbeat mercifully isn't a cover of the Steps classic - nay, it's nicely in line with their more mature, dance orientated sound, fully adhering to driving things forward while acknowledging the past. god, they are adorable!
Which brings us to the "buzz track" that you can hear a clip of on their revamped website - Karma Karma. A duet with Swedish pop legends Alcazar, I've been lucky enough to have a sneak listen. To say that is an absolutely pounding, hugely euphoric disco moment is an understatement. To say it's a cross between Boney M's Rasputin and Steps' epic Summer of Love does not do it justice. It builds up from some ebulliant house-piano chords and a dirty disco beat pulsating with a fuzzy synth riff kicks in and the "whoo-oh"s start. Sean and Sarah take main vocal duties on the first verse before that soaring chorus kicks in. "Karma, karma cut the drama, never satisfied" complete with handclaps, more whoos and that insiduous, addictive synth riff. It's bloody brilliant. And that's all before the spine tingling, hands in the air, grab the one you love and shimmy key change that comes out of the middle 8. I may well explode. So yes. It's brilliant. And a deserved number one on my chart. They are back. And I for one am thrilled :)

Top 21 singles of the week (the New Year clearout!):

21 ~ Brandon Flowers, Broken Hearts & Jilted Lovers (NE)
20 ~ Maroon 5, Never Gonna Leave This Bed (NE)
19 ~ Scissor Sisters, Whole New Way (NE)
18 ~ Take That, The Flood
17 ~ Kylie, Better Than Today
16 ~ Bjorn Johan Muri, Nobody Knows
15 ~ JLS, Eyes Wide Shut (NE)
14 ~ Shayne Ward, Obsession (NE)
13 ~ Eric Saade, Break of Dawn
12 ~ Le Kid, We Should Go Home Together
11 ~ Daniel Boys, To Make You Feel My Love
10 ~ Darin, Drowning
09 ~ Gravitonas, You Break Me Up
08 ~ Jessie J, Do It Like A Dude (NE)
07 ~ Avril Lavigne, What The Hell (NE)
06 ~ Matt Cardle, When We Collide
05 ~ Elouise, You'll Never Walk Alone
04 ~ Rochella Danishei ft Simon Curtis, Michelle
03 ~ Tove Styrke, White Light Moment
02 ~ One Direction, Forever Young
01 ~ Same Difference, Karma Karma (1 week)
Back on Monday with 5 songs - 1 a day to get you through to the weekend :)

Rochella Danishei ~ End Of The Rainbow:


Out of the ashes of the still mourned girl group Candy Coated Chaos rises a phoenix from the flames. A new female ambassador, flying the pop flag for unapolgetically raw and honest music that comes with a dark disco beat and a truly biting lyrical edge. Rochella's End of the Rainbow sets out it's statement with a spoken intro track, reminiscent of when Janet Jackson ruled the world with her Rhythm Nation 1814, promising a world where bluebirds don't fly, just a disco ball spins high in the sky. Buckle those seatbelts kiddies, because we certainly ain't in Kansas anymore...

Guided ably by musical maestro Jadion (Candy Coated Chaos, Simon Curtis), End of the Rainbow kicks off with a couple of startling addictive pop tunes that instantly reel you into the world of Rochella. Drunk Txt is like a decade later, female remake of Backstreet Boys' The Call. Intro-ing with appropriate sound effects, a heavily synth driven verse structure sets a more sombre musical scene where Ro is out with her girls but is missing her man. What's particularly clever here is how the verses place Ro into a world where she clearly doesn't exactly want to be and the chorus transforms into a bouncy chant a long epic where she's happily/guiltily drunk texting and sexting her fella. The music matches this perfectly and it's a deliriously relatable song with one of the poppiest choruses you'll here in 2011. This is followed by Never Been Kissed. A swirling, romantic, sparkling tune that is truly evocative of that giddy feeling you get when you find that instant connection with someone. Remember all those dizzying tunes when Britney, Christina, Mandy, Jessica et al emerged from the woodwork about 10-12 years ago? It's reminiscent of those classic pop tunes, yet with a totally modern throbbing beat pulsating throughout. This is going to sound absolutely epic on the radio...

The brightness of these opening numbers is soon shadowed by a more sombre look at the world. The lyrical bite kicks in and while the tunes are still uniformly excellent, there's a darker work of art in progress. Blackout is the appropriately titled track that starts this off. The Russian spoken intro is strangely enticing and the relentless beat feels like some sordid climaxing one night stand presented in musical dirty treat. I'm OK on the surface seems like one of those declaration of independence albums but scratch a little deeper and there's a little bit of vulnerability. Some wonderfully and possibly filthy bonmots such as "I feel you watching me/i know you wanna eat/come into mama's kitchen/i'll fix you up a treat" and a pleasing reference to Single Ladies make this a pop cultural treat and have you rooting for Rochella when she reaffirms that she's gonna be ok. Unlove Pill slows things down a little and is a haunting, stark, painful synth-ballad with some brutally raw lyrics. The music here is a repetitive synth riff with minimal effects other than a beautifully delivered vocal - and here is a good time to point out that Ms Danishei has a rather lovely voice. She knows when to let loose, when to be more restrained and when to pour emotion on a track without it seeming treacly and OTT. Similarly, she works her voice round the music and vice versa in an era when people can get too lost in autotune and vocoder madness. It's a treat to listen to, particularly when she turns her hand to different genres...

It's no surprise that Michelle is one of my favourite tracks on the album. Not only is an aggressively, posturing rock-esque track but it features one of my fave male singers ever in Mr Simon Curtis. The track works equally well on Rochella's album as it would on Simons - someone who knows a thing or two about vengeful pop. It's like a superbly remixed Garbage track - fuzzy synth guitar effects, unforgiving beat that matches the truly vengeful lyrics. The vocal playoff and tradeoff works exquisitely and you're drawn into a world that's like a musical Inception - it turns you on your head, takes unexpected turns and is a truly intoxicating experience. Play back to back with Simon's other Rochella collaboration Brainwash (from 8 Bit Heart) and it's a musical nirvana of the darkest variety. Gotta feel almost sorry for Michelle though. Not only does her name rhyme with hell (I guess "Claaaaaarrre you stripped my feelings bare" didn't have the same ring to it :P) but she has some serious wrath coming her way. Stunning.

The rest of the album continues with a bowl of pop treats for you to get stuck into Ur Fucking Crazy may have a title that will make your grandma blush (not mine, she had a right potty mouth) but has a bouncy beat and some truly amusing lyrics about an ill fated relationship - and as Mel points out, some of the cleverest lyrics you'll hear this year ("I would say I'll see you later/If you hadn't tattooed your name on my derriere"). It's laden with attitude and a delightful call out to some of those mistaken relationships we've all come across in our lives. Baby Doll seems to be the anthemic call of the album - Simon has his robots, Gaga has her monsters, Rochella has her dolls. It's got a rather brilliant instrumental behind it all with some quirky sound effects and a positively singalong chorus that will have people chanting this coming of age saga for years to come. The title track samples Judy Garland and tramples over the dreams of a pot of gold at the rainbow. What you do get instead is a dark, vibrating beat and a scintillating chorus that shows sometimes dreams don't come true, hard work doesn't always pay off but we'll always have some great music to dance to - and this is the message thealbum concludes with; Prey To The Beat (great title) suitably rounds everything up full circle and gives her listeners a ray of light penetrating through the rainbow world she's created.

An incredible debut album and one that really deserves a huge amount of viral success in 2011. I've seen the end of the rainbow and it is Rochella.
Potential singles: Drunk Txt; Never Been Kissed; Michelle; I'm Ok; Baby Doll

Andrea Lewis ~ 54321:


Released in late 2010, I shamefully didn't get around to reviewing this although I was clearly smitten with the Simon Curtis duet Talk To Me as it topped my charts for several weeks and was one of my top songs of the year. The album, however, deserves some time spent with it as it is a delightful piece of work that skilfully blends genres, influences and tempos into a cohesive, enjoyable piece of work. Andrea kicks off the album with a tempered, orchestral invitation to her listeners to join her on the journey, to fly with her, to become heroes. It's a heady mix of allure and aspiration that kicks off the album in style. And then something even more amazing happens that deserves it's own countdown to it...

Voodoo may be one of the best pop tracks you haven't yet heard. A blistering, scintillating r'n'b driven track, heavy with a swirling handclap beat and a soaring chorus that is just off kilter enough to keep you on edge but slick enough to have you dancing along - breathless, giddy with anticipation for whatever is going to come next. It's brimming with energy, delivered with a truly enthusiastic vocal and makes you thankful that pop like this still exists. It's pop, it's orchestra, it's magic, it's pure vocal. Something that Alesha Dixon wishes she'd come back with and could rule the pop charts here for several weeks. Oh, and that incredible note from 2m30s? Spine chilling (and do check out a rather brilliant dance remix by Jadion on Andrea's site. Amazing)... There's time to catch your breath on the elegant She. It's disguised musically as a dreamy romantic ballad, but as with the most inventive pop nowadays there's a twist in the lyrics as Andrea balances being in an unevenly numbered relationship with the protaganist of the title. There's a wonderful semi-rap in the middle 8 that leads into a pleading, almost angry delivery of the final choruses where Andrea states her case to a militant beat. It reminds me of the tracks by Pebbles and Karyn White in the early 90s, that quiet storm remix of a track that is completely open and exudes charm because of this.

Robot starts off with a vocodered spoken intro before a powerful vocal kicks in over a sparse synth and strictly timed beat. Mix into that some well timed sound effects and the feel of a motown influence and the cold, unfeeling Dexter that she seems to be dating would have to have a heart of ice not to be thawed by this warm, engaging tune. There seems to be a theme of sadness, regret and letdown on Andrea's album and her pain is sadly our gain. Take Rain Drops - it's the juxtaposition of a mid-tempo tune where the beat bounces along and Andrea taking something as cliched as raindrops as metaphor for heartbreak and making it sound fresh. There's a rapped middle 8 where we get the male perspective - it's a neat trick that will work to truly devastating effect later in the album. The next track is necessary to show that Andrea is moving through her negative experiences - Conquerers is an anthem in waiting; verses on par musically with Paparazzi and All Night Long (Alexandra) and a skybound chorus that really showcases the power and versatility of Andreas impressive vocals. It's a midway point of hope, optimism and determination.

I've written extensively about Talk To Me in the past. I'll try and recap with new words. Simply put, I think it's one of the most beautiful, soulful, heartwrenching break up ballads I've ever heard. It's a living breathing work of art, built around a shuffling motown beat, finger clicks and a simple but lovely piano chord construction. The lyrics detail Andrea pondering the breakdown of a relationship and how it could've been better with communication. Lovely backing vocals in the chorus add to it's timeless appeal. The kicker here is a guest vocal in the middle 8 by Simon Curtis. It's the male response and paints the other side of the story to completely devastating effect. The vocals weave together as an emotional deconstruction takes place. The song ends with some sort of acceptance but the crushing knowledge that this is one relationship that will be mourned on one side at least for some time to come. It's an entire weepie of a movie in one song and a simply outstanding tune.

Linda comes across as an almost industrial tune - the instrumental and production are almost reminiscent of Depeche Mode circa Personal Jesus/Enjoy The Silence. It all works surprisingly well with Andrea's vocal. It's a slightly hazy affair, the swirling repeated vocals creating the effect that love/rage can bring where your mind goes a little bit crazy... It's all rounded off nicely with Fool of Me which starts with delicate piano play that becomes more and more ominous as additional sound effects, instruments and layered vocals are added. Musically it brings it full circle from the scintillating Voodoo and Andrea taking a stand against the errant lovers who have wronged her. There is also an outro with some Soul II Soul and Janet Jackson mixed in there and finishes off a fine, emotive, soulful album. A lovely piece of work that will hopefully bring Andrea's music to a much wider audience... Potential singles: Voodoo; Talk To Me; She; Robots; Conquerers

Revisiting Simon Curtis & His 8 Bit Heart:


One year ago, Simon unleashed his debut album (review here) onto twitter after reaching a certain number of followers (I think it was 8000?) and created something of a viral monster. Fans were soon clamouring for his brand of smartly constructed pop and the blog world imploded with kudos and an unprecedented devotion to an unsigned act. One year on, the album remains an essential example of how a concept album can produce many wonderful standalone moments, yet still work as a cohesive piece of work. So littered is it with sci-fi and pop culture references both in the lyrics and the production (note the lengths of the songs all end in a zero or five) that repeat visits remain necessary to discover all the hidden wonders that abound. New things intruige - for example, the number 7. On both Rochella and Andrea's albums, these are the songs that Simon duets on, yet on 8 Bit Heart it's an interlude, a phone conversation. Hidden meaning by design or merely coincidence (also is that Simon masked on Rochella's album cover?!)?

Diablo remains my favourite song on here, a sprawling tune that I still believe could be the male Bad Romance and would love to see a high concept, high budget video for. 8 Bit Heart remains a sweet diversion from Simon's sometimes vengeful, sometimes bleak world view - a tune that sounds like Lamont and Dozier were in the studio with him. It's completely endearing and can be interpreted in so many ways. I often thought it could be the anthem for the NoH8 campaign. New favourites emerge all the time - Brainwash is captivating all over again, while Joystick is a saucy romp that I can't wait to get to.

Anticipation remains high for a new album. Laser Guns Up has been premiered at live shows, surely more will follow at his LA gig on the 9th Jan. Here's hoping that Simon can translate the online hype into something that earns him the money he needs to translate his vision and bring it to the fanbase he's spent so long cultivating...

Let's face it. The final quarter of 2010 on my blog has been dominated by the X-Factor. As has British pop culture. it's not just a talent show any more - it's a genuine talking point phenomenon. Normally, I'm fixated only on the finalists and while they certainly entertained me during the live shows this year, more than ever before I had a tinge of sadness that one group in particular hadn't made it to the live shows. Princes and Rogues. They seemed to sparkle together from their first audition until they were told at Judge's Houses they were going no further.

But hurrah! Rather than let doom and gloom kick in, the fearless fivesome set about honing their skills, performing up and down the country, doing some quite charming youtube videos of songs, being quite prolific and interactive with their burgeoning fanbase and essentially working their little socks off to ensure continued success. What I really like about Prince & Rogues is that they all seem such charming fellas, they have harmonies to die for and a style that is both totally accessible and utterly quirky. Added to all this an unashamed love of pop music (none of this "oh i want to be doing thrash metal really" nonsense) which shines through in their choice of cover versions and it all adds up to a winning combination. I'm hopeful that they will be recording some tunes soon - I'd be thrilled to take one of their songs to premiere on the Larry Flick radio show... But for now, here is a chat with the very lovely, very charm the pants off you P&R...

Let's get the obvious questions out the way first - how did you five boys come together?

Jonny and Cameron had separate ideas that they both wanted to enter x factor as a band. Cameron and Jonny had known each other for about 5 years after meeting at other band auditions. Jonny put on his status on facebook about putting a band together, Cameron then messaged him saying he wanted to do it. They met in London to discuss what kind of band and how they should go about it. After some failed auditions held by Jonny to find members, Cameron knew Dave, Dave knew Ashley and Ashley knew Derek. So by degrees of separation we all formed through friends of friends.

Any regrets in doing the x-factor? How do you think you will use the platform of the show to succeed where others have failed?

No regrets at all. Our only regret is we didn't enter sooner. People complain about not getting through and its a fix etc etc. But after spending time with Cher, Matt, Rebecca at Bootcamp and then One direction at judges houses, it was amazing to sit at home and really watch there lifes change. They were all normal people like us at Bootcamp, hoping that they were going to be chosen. Watching Matt win was so emotional. Especially after him snoring so loud one night at Bootcamp, Derek did not get any sleep! (because there are 5 of us, one of us had to share rooms with another contestant at Bootcamp.) Amazing things really can happen to normal people. After getting to judges houses people become bitter about not being chosen for the final and they forget what an achievement it was to get there in the first place! All we want to do is entertain and of course we would have loved to do it on live tv every week but its not the only place to do it. We have the whole world to explore!!!. When we got back from judges houses we didn't waste a second, we had photos done, a great booking agent secured and gigs up and down the country performing at most of the same venues the finalist perform at anyway.

What do you think of Wagner progressing so far in the competition when groups like yourselves weren't given the opportunity?

Well you do have to remember its not only a Talent show but a TV show as well and he did make great TV. We never really thought of him as taking our place as he was not in our category. Perhaps we might have felt different if we had been in the Live shows with him.

How have all the Christmas lights performances been going? What is your favourite so far?

They have been great fun, we love any gig we do. Warrington lights stands out to us as all as the staff and acts were brilliant. We also got to perform along side Treyc Cohen, so it was nice to see her again and catch up. Cambridge lights was also amazing, did you know it is known as the 'Geeky' city?as you can imagine we fitted right in there,lol.

I did not know that! And talking of geeky cities, you've really honed the geek chic style look and yet made it quite individual among yourselves. Did you consciously come up with a cohesive image together or did it just naturally happen? Where's your favourite places to get your clothes? How come Ashley looks so good in a bow tie and yet i look like my great uncle Leonard?

We took the idea and ran with it when Simon Cowell said at our first audition 'It was a bit geeky'. He knows what he is talking about so we took his advice. We scoured our own wardrobes as well as, charity shops, vintage shops and the high street. When we starting looking we saw that 'Geek Chic' was everywhere! Ashley is our main Geek Chicer, he helps a lot with the styling and has a great eye for a bargain. Most of the bow ties you see only cost about £2 from Camden!

I so need to go shopping with you! Will the theme of your look carry forward to any music you are recording? I see you going with an 80s geeky vibe to your tunes but could be completely wrong...

We want to make big epic songs with live instruments but with that 80's electro pop element. People like The Hurts, Mika, Alphabeat and Frankie goes to Hollywood all do this. Also most noticeably Take That's new album which has every different type of style on it rolled into one. We also love the strong backing vocals of Glee. They really make the backing vocals stand out rather than fade into the background which is great for a band like us. So we want to make some great 'Geek Chic' classic pop tunes. The kind of song that no matter who sang it you don't mind having it stuck in your head.

That would be magnificent. if you could hurry along with that i'd be most grateful :P Especially as you've done some acapella video cover versions on Youtube - most noticeably Relax, Video Killed The Radio Star and a gorgeous version of Red. How did you choose those songs? Who arranges your harmonies?

Cameron and Jonny firstly arrange the songs. Then as a group we get together and work through them, either adding things or taking away things that don't work. Relax was actually the first song we performed at Judges houses which they didn't show on the Television. We choose the songs as we love the 80's fun vibe they had and with red it shows of our harmonys and that we can be serious...sometimes!

How are you different from a typical boyband?

Were kind of like 'The Inbetweeners' of boybands! We have decided we are not a boyband and not a manband. I think we differ as all 5 of us can sing, a lot of emphasis goes on our strong harmonys and quirky image. Were not trying hard to fit into the generic category of ' We're a boyband and we have to be really cool' We are just being ourselves which is a bit geek and a bit chic! We all know everyone has an inner geek....Even Simon Cowell! We have just decided to embrace it!

"Kind of like "The Inbetweeners" of boybands! Just don't work some of their vocabulary into your songs!! So working together as a group, are you like those naughty rascals - do you get up to any mischief on the road? Did you really trash Simon's house? (And were you disappointed Sinitta wasn't in her leaves this year...)

Lots of mischief, dont forget there is a Rougue in each one of us as well as the Prince. Some things we can never reveal..But we have fraped davo, we wrote on his status that he was going to be a father. He started getting texts saying congratulation. Some from family in Dubai and OZ! There person who was most confused was his GF Marriane who called from Holland to ask what was going on. As our gigs are all over, we stay in lots of different hotels, 'knock door run' is good in hotels because whoever is at the back usually gets caught!

Ok here's the exclusive, Here is the story behind wrecking Simons house! There was no drinking and no partying BUT, it was Jonny who ruined the 15 Thousand Pound rug...Basically we had been filming in the sea, messing around having fun and all the contestants had access to one room in the house. We were the last band to get filmed so everyone had been walking in and out over the rug so it was a bit damp already. Because we were the only band to actually throw ourselves in the sea we were soaking wet. We were all getting changed when Jonny dropped his swimmers and half of the sea bed feel out on the rug. Loads of muck and stones. That's when the picture got taken by 'The sun' when they had laid it outside to get cleaned and dry off! So we are sure it's ok now. Sinitta rocked her catsuit this year so we were not to disappointed.

Who has the worst habits and how long do you think you can put up with them for?!

Recently we stayed at Jonnys house in Clitheroe, we were all sitting when his dogs came over and starting licking his feet. He actually lets them get right in between his toes. We cant actually talk about it for too long as it makes us feel sick.

I think I just tasted my lunch again actually hearing that :P Who's who in the band, character wise? (e.g. joker, serious, dog licking one, etc)

Derek- The Random one
David- The Dizzy one
Ashley- The Sensitive one
Jonny- The Mad one
Cameron- The Sensible one

Johnny - is it true you were in Avenue? Did you sing on Set Your Body Free? One of the greatest unreleased pop tunes of the new millennium! What are your memories of your time in that band?

Yes its all true,lol.I had an amazing time in Avenue.We worked so so hard and every time we had a knock back we just grew stronger as a unit and managed to achieve things we didnt think possible.We also managed to record some amazing songs ie. "Set Your Body Free",it was a TUNE!!!!!!!!!i recently found a video on Youtube of Brian Freeman choreographing at a dance seminar to our song.You need to check it out,the kids are amazing dancers.

Derek - will you be returning to Ireland for Christmas or do you think you will stay in London? What are everyone's plans for the festive season?

We are all going to have 2 weeks off over Christmas. Derek will be back in Ireland for Christmas and spending new year in London. Cameron will be home in Scotland for both Christmas and New Year. Jonny, ash, David will be spending Christmas at home and New Year in London.

Have you had any interesting come ons from your female/male fans? What's the weirdest thing that's happened?

Well Diva Fever did take a fancy to Ashley! The weirdest thing I think is signing fans with permanent marker in some crazy places...

You can't really blame Diva Fever. He is quite 'the fox'. Finally, what are your goals for 2011?

its a secret,watch this space !!

A secret?! Outrageous! All that schmoozing and they remain tightlipped :P Well you can be sure that I'll be covering it here - thanks to all 5 boys for being so generous with their time and fun with their answers. Princes and Rogues, you are kings among men :)

Grab your snuggie, get a mars bar and a beverage and get comfortable because this is going to be a fairly lengthy list of artists I shall be monitoring very closely throughout 2011. Some of them will already be familiar to you as I've written about them extensively already, while some will be brand new to you. All of them have something magical to offer in 2011 that makes me very excited for a new musical year. This is all in no particular order of amazingness because they all are quite sparkling and special :)

YOUR BRIGHTEST HOPES FOR POP FOR 2011...

• Claire Maguire ~ She's already a shoe in to win the BBC Sound of 2011 poll. She's from my home town of Birmingham so I feel abit of an affinity with her. Essentially, her stunning vocal style has been beautifully wrapped in a musical production that is powerfully emotive without actually being overpowering. Her debut single Ain't Nobody adds sumptuous violin and evocative guitar into a thunderous soundscape that thrills from start to finish. Her new single Last Dance is out in late February and sounds equally as delicious. Truly startlingly good.

• Xylos ~ I'm unforgiveably behind on this effortlessly charming group, but better late than never I say... The group weave together a beautifully intricate sound that is deliciously light and airy pop music matched with clever lyrics, vocal innovations and a driving beat to keep it all on track. The male/female vocal playoff on their heavenly single Not Enough is an absolute delight to behold, and with some vocal chiming to give it some quirk, it's a track you'll have on repeat until their debut album is released on Valentines Day. Magic.

• Vogue Collective ~ Not much is known about Vogue Collective other than they are quite enthusiastic on twitter and that their song Tarantula (which soundtracks the video above) has been stuck in my head for days. Basically you can't beat a song that has a fun beat, some whoo whoos and a chorus to die for. And their vocals are spot on and blend together nicely. For further evidence, check out their rehearsal footage of Rule The World. Saturdays, watch your backs...

• Escort Knights ~ Sometimes my pop world needs a little edge and four piece Escort Knights provide some much needed indie cool to my playlist. They have this really contaigious energy about their music which is filled with blinding choruses, fuzzy guitars, shuffling beats and witty, wry lyrics. Their very excellent single I Don't Know Your Name showcases all of these fine traits, while Summer Is Coming shows they are not afraid to show a different side to their music, adding an addictive bosa nova beat, a bit of romantic sax and a more laid back acoustic vibe. This is all lining up to be something very special indeed.

• Ed Drewett ~ Ah Ed. Cheeky charm. Snazzy dresser. Goodlooking fella. Was responsible for two great moments in 2010 (co-wrote All Time Low by The Wanted & featured on Prof Green's Need You Tonight). Now everything is aligning for solo success. Champagne Lemonade was a mere pre-success tipple as his album sampler shows a knack for catchy tunes, current production values yet an old time tip to the hat to strong melodies and brillo chorus. Particularly on Parallels and Vital Signs. And if you are not utterly smitten after watching the clip above, then you need to check your pulse!

• Graffiti6 ~ This talented duo are an act I kept an eye on throughout most of 2010 but didn't spend nearly enough time with. I'm chagrinned and aim to change that in 2011. They have produced some tremendous tunes that are breezy, sunshine, soulful ditties that match Jamie's wondeful vocal with TommyD's knack for making each tune sound like ice cream on a summers day. Stop Mary (above) is an absolute gem of a tune and you should all be eagerly anticipating their debut album. They make everything so effortlessly wonderful.

• DeeDeeLovesMe ~ one of the things that annoyed me about the constant claims about Cher X Factor Lloyd being the most innovative thing in the UK ever since 3D tv was that there were perfectly brilliant artists like DeeDee already out there. DeeDee's debut EP "The Lowdown" is filled with cutting edge, cabaret tinged pop with an absolute bite that come across as very miss kitty with claws. Take the track above - hammond organ, handclaps and a shuffling beat all add up to a very catchy pop tune, yet there is arsenic in the lyrics. Plus the deliciously malevolent middle 8 on Balls will make your grandma blush. Much more please in 2011...

• Tove Styrke ~ In Sweden, not winning X Factor or Idol isn't a hindrance. So in love with pop music are they that they take 2nd, 3rd, 7th, 10th place finalists and give them a career. And that's normally because they come out with music that far surpasses British and American champs. Tove is the latest - her debut album is filled with icy pop gems that ingratiate themselves into your ears and brain on first listen and refuse to let go. Her voice is stunning, the tunes are marvelous. World domination is a must.

• BoyBanned ~ The group has altered slightly and definitely evolved over the past few months and are ready to launch themselves onto an unsuspecting public with their debut single Street Lights. Evocative of classic boyband moments from years gone by, it's a sparkling ballad with a silky smooth layered vocal and some lovely guitar-piano riff. What also works well about the song is you can totally imagine it as a balls to the wall dance mix, with the guys leaping up from their stools and launching into a dance routine. And you know how I love a good boyband. Familiar yet enticing all at the same time - both band and song :)

• The Ultra Girls ~ I totally want the Ultra Girls to do a superhero theme for one of their videos. Perhaps they could rescue me from the clutches of some evil (but suitably good looking) villain called Sir Spanxalot?! I love that the name of the group already gives them a fun personality that is matched by their onstage presence and choice of songs (Girls Will Be Girls is a spicy jam and trouble with a capital T)! Plus they can tone it down for some dreamy smooching music as their take on The Wanted shows above. I'm excited to follow them this coming year!

• Nick Hagelin ~ Oh how I adore it when some quality boy pop heads my way. Let's go thru the ingredients for a nice slice of boy pop pie. Ability to sing - yup, Nick has a voice that bypasses the need for vocoder and autotune, and therefore sounds surprisingly fresh. Catchy tune - yes! ICU is a insistent, pulsating dance track with pop overtones that sparkles from start to finish. Dedication to pop ~ yessirreebob! His ethos seems built around huge melodies, danceable beats and music that makes you feel good. Now that I can totally get on board with. Plus he has cheekbones to die for.

Acts I've written about lots before and have nothing but huge pop wishes for in 2011...

• Elouise ~ check out her stunning performance of No More Tears (Enough is Enough) here...
• Simon Curtis ~ his 8 Bit Heart bought him to an adoring internet public in 2010. Parlaying that into a record buying public is his next mission, should he choose to accept it...
• Kyle Brylin ~ ready to release his dancefloor epic Committed complete with a video in January, while you are waiting check out some lovely acoustic Kyle here...
• Dirty Disco ~ This visually arresting, musically stunning group established their signature sound and a solid fan base in 2010. Expect to hear much much more from them in 2011 as they forge forward with an electrifying assault on the pop world. Check them out on Larry Flick's Morning Jolt tomorrow with some live studio sessions. I'll be reviewing shortly!

Coming soon ~ an interview with my brightest pop hope for 2011 (tomorrow), then sometime over the weekend reviewing 2 scintillating albums that are FREE DOWNLOADS from Ro Danishei & Andrea Lewis...

I love a good balls to the wall, deliriously gleeful, wonderfully wacky dance orientated pop number I do. What's fluffy and throwaway to one is gold dust to me and I savour every nuance, note, beat and boogie along the way. It makes up much of my listening material to be honest with you. But that doesn't mean I am not completely appreciative of what some may class as a deeper level of artistry - where the song is lovingly crafted by the singer and a composition comes together that is musical poetry. So this post is the first of two dedicated to finding the best unknowns (to me, previously anyway) out there who music makes me soar...

• Luke Leighfield ~ Luke is on his third album at the moment, so shame on me for not noticing him sooner. However, better late to the party than not turning up at all - and I'm taking one of Luke's songs with me on my guest slot on The Morning Jolt radio show tomorrow morning. His latest album Have You Got Heart (click on the title for more info) is full of heart on sleeve pop tunes, built around intricate piano melodies and heady guitar riffs that are reminiscent of troubadours like Ben Folds and Julian Velard. Lyrically, there's little subtlety within the songs and you know exactly what the young fella is talking about - this isn't a criticism; rather it's a rallying call to the masses to share in the musical experience and relate to your own life. I love this type of writing - Robbie Williams excels at it, and he's done all right out of it. For Luke, it seems the message in the music is to share your passion and that's mirrored with his campaign to give the album away (or make a donation - highly recommended option for the quality of work you are going to get). The vocals, the floating piano, the aggressive guitar - it's all pulled together by an excellent production value and draws you fully into what is ultimately a completely rewarding listening experience. Do check him out...

• Joe Brooks ~ I wrote about Joe Brooks about 3-4 years ago, when he was just a young whippersnapper of a lad and he kindly sent me a signed cd. Which i still have. He is currently touring the UK (with one of tomorrow's blog subjects, Jason Reeves) promoting his corker of an album Constellation Me. What you get with Joe is someone who manages to weave an intricate web of melody and lyrical incisiveness that is both painfully aware and candidly uplifting. His musical style is both earnest and engaging, and the fella knows how to craft a tune with his magic guitar fingers that will stay in your head for days. There's a personality that shines through the music and Joe clearly favours craft over current trends as he creates a sound that transcends shelf life. His vocal performance on songs such as Rules of Attraction and Superman make the music emotive, powerful and heartfelt. Definitely one to watch out for and apparently effortlessly charming live (i'll let you know later next month!)...

• The Woe Betides ~ It seems disrepectful to say that The Woe Betides are like a casserole of pop, but I mean it with sincere love and admiration. They take elements of musical styles, such as grunge, electronica, lo-fi folk, mix it all together and produce something that by all accounts should be a gigantic mess, but is actually entirely intruiging. It's the harmonies and handclaps, the infusion of cold emotion or hot passion (dependent on the need of the song) into the vocal delivery and the structure & life within the songs. Their debut album Never Sleep mixes things up throughout the tracklisting and will often exchange instruments and vocal styles seemingly at a whim, but always to the benefit of the tune you are listening to. There's often a juxtaposition within the music too - innocent sounding vocals play off against fuzzy guitars or intense melodies to great effect. If you are just starting to check them out, you could do worse than begin with their catchy single Sylvia - and try as you might, you'll end up singing "sylvia' you're a terrible person/but i'll never love anyone else" all the live long day. Splendid.

Tomorrow: More singer songwriters from USA inc. Jason Reeves, Matt White and Jason Walker!

Do you ever have one of those moments? You know the one - when you hear a song and the world around you seemingly stops while your entire being becomes immersed in what you hearing, such is it's beauty and charm? Talk To Me by Andrea Lewis (and guest vocal from Simon Curtis) is one of those songs. I wrote a little bit about Andrea's sizzling Voodoo single a few weeks ago and had eagerly been waiting for her debut album "54321" to be released. It was made available for free and legal download yesterday (poetically 10.10.10) on her own website.

I haven't had time to go through the whole album as of yet, but naturally I was drawn to the song that featured the vocal stylings of one Mr. Simon Curtis. After being extremely familar with Simon's dark electro-pop stylings and adoring the scintillating energy of Andrea's Voodoo, I was expecting a ferocious club thumper of epic proportions. That is not what I got. Talk To me is an instantly stunning mid-tempo ballad that sifts through the scattered and uncertain debris of a failed relationship. It's built around lilting piano and guitar, with a deep backing vocal and finger clicks adding to the layers of the track - gives it a vibe akin to those glorious 60s motown ballads. The real joy amongst the sadness of the lyrics is how pure and undiluted Andrea's voice is. In an age where vocoder rules for even those who have proven their vocal abilities on national tv talent contests, it shines like a glistening star. Better still, there's a fragile emotion in her delivery that adds a huge vulnerability to the track and pulls together the incredible pathos going on here. Communication seems to be the root of all the fractured couple's problems as she details many situations that could have been better with a little conversation. What's sweet is the bittersweet optimism - that actually any of the problems can be solved ("do you see the light of the setting sun and will you talk to me")... It's a musical alchemy that flows nicely - and this in of itself would be quite incredible. However, there's more...

The middle 8 introduces Simon's vocal appearance. I would say with some confidence that it is one of my favourite vocals of his. That for me would elevate the track anyway. it's the cleverness of what his vocal performance does - it fleshes out the story with a different point of view on the communication issues and leads to a wonderful, if somewhat heartbreaking vocal tradeoff for the rest of the song (Simon "there's nothing left to say because it's over"; Andrea "do you feel the breeze through the open window...and will you talk to me"). But - as i've stated - amongst the sadness, these beautiful vocal performances and heavenly instrumentals fly and something incredibly special and poignant has been created here. I can't overstate how in love I am with this song - I'll be spending time with the album as soon as I stop playing this on repeat. Gorgeous.

It's being billed as the surprise upset of the week - yup, Cee-Lo is beating Robbie & Gary to number one with his unrepentant and slightly glorious Fuck You. Don't feel too sorry for R&G - the single still has high sales figures and I suspect some people are saving their pennies for the variety of options out on Monday for the big Robbie Greatest Hits packages. Plus, Britain loves a good curse word song. The fact that this one is set to such a wonderfully motown inspired groove makes the middle finger chorus seem so much more naughty (and yet so satisfying). There are bitter lovers all over the country singing into their hairbrushes while burning pictures of their ex to this song - it's that connection that's propelling this to the top stop (and potentially holding Joe McElderry off next week too). And if Cee-Lo isn't enough, check out a couple of smashing alternatives:

CJ Baran does Fuck You: Ah CJ. I wrote about him before because essentially he is very good indeed. And a bit handsome. He's getting rather good at doing decent cover versions - and this is no exception. He's all pretty fly for a white guy in the better than most popstars with a huge budget video clip that he's produced. Not only is the cover a jauntily produced affair, but the video is a hoot. Cycling around town, plethora of cheesy gifts, giving that middle finger some proper gusto, nice bit of grooving in a tank top in the park, funky graphics to match the lyrics - it's all quite satisfying indeed. What i'm loving is the studio shots of CJ dancing around and letting the rhythms of the tune totally infuse him - all inhibitions are good and it's a joy to watch. Oh and I'm quite partial to the way he gives the middle finger too. And the brilliant middle 8 and instrumental breakdown. Visual treat that works for me. Sign up for a free download of the video over at CJ's official site.

The Overtones do Fuck You: Ah The Overtones. I wrote about them before because essentially they are very good indeed. And a bit handsome. Not to repeat myself ;) It's a rather layered and brilliant harmonic version of the track that makes it sound like a 50s doowap classic. The version works so incredibly well because they deliver it with such sincerity and it's such a juxtaposition with the sweetness of their vocal instruments playing off against the decidedly had enough lyrics. They actually manage to bring out the sad pathos of the song, particularly when they slow it down at the end and it becomes a bit of a heartbreaker thanks to their careful staging of "i guess the change in my pocket wasn't enough"... Oh good things are going to happen for this boys, I can just feel it...

Any other cover versions I should be aware of?! (Tomorrow! TAKE THAT!)

Boy bands eh? I've adored them ever since I was little and will probably continue to adore them when i've long since been in my cold cold grave (because by then modern technology will enable me to live on cyber-style as an iPad or amazon kindle or on twitter or something). Yet - much like any other pop genre - success can be a tricky thing for them to attain. For every Westlife, Take That, JLS or The Wanted, there is a Digital, Billiam, V, Vigo and Avenue. Most of whome I've effused about on these pages at one point or another. crikey! Anyway, time to have a look at some of the current stock out there and what they are currently up to (and most importantly how hunky they are)...

THE ALTERNATIVE SELECTION:

• The Overtones ~ what with Glee shining a spotlight on innovative vocal harmony, the time is right for a group of fellas to come along and woo England with their doo-wop stylings. The Overtones are 5 everyday chaps who come from a painting and decorating background. Obviously singing on the job has paid off as they now have a record deal and their first album is out in October. Amazes. They have produced a mix of original songs and 50s/60s cover versions. Their debut single "Gambling Man" is a self penned effort that effervesces with charm - it's a solid, finger clicking 3 minutes of jazz tinged cool that is heavy on melody and weaves their voices intrinsically with each other without overpowering the music. I also like that it's a bit cheeky and while is imbued with their musical influences also manages to feel entirely at ease in today's pop landscape. This is reflected in their clothing choices too - vintage "Mad Men" styling with a hint of modern geek chic about them. I'm tres excited about their debut album Good Ol' Fashioned Love and sense that they may be a new obsession of mine. Hurrah! Oh and they are quite dishy too :P
• Straight No Chaser ~ I've enjoyed the Christmassy albums of SNC for a couple of years now. This vocal harmony group manages to outdo Glee with their latest album full of a variety of cover versions that manage to twist and invert what you know about the song and bring something new to the table. Take their latest single - Tainted Love. Sure everyone has heard this tune in Soft Cell format, but in the hands of SNC they turn it into an effortlessly cool, wonderfully harmonised effort where their voices replace the instruments and still make it sound layered and lush all at the same time. The video (click here - embedding disabled which is of course hideous) seems like a riff on The Hangover movie as the boys get up to all sorts of shenanighans in Las Vegas. Oh that's my type of party...

THE TRADITIONAL ROUTE:

• Boy Banned ~ busy preparing their debut UK single are the quartet known as Boy Banned. Possibly a play on the Girls Aloud name (and of course boy band, i'm not totally thick you know :P) they are busy building quite the following on twitter and facebook and engaging with their fans at every opportunity. A clip of their first single proper Street Light shows them leading with an engaging tune that builds on a strong, resonant vocal with minimal instrumental (that's vaguely reminiscent of the brilliant Living In A Box song Room In Your Heart that some boy band absolutely must cover or I will explode!) before launching into a luscious, mid-tempo ballad with an engaging beat and memorable refrain. It builds on all the successful tenents of previous boybands and bodes well for the full length version and video which is apparently coming soon. Oh, and while all the boys seem very charming, I must confess that it's Ethan's pop star hair and innocent face that has me most entranced ;)
• Big Time Rush ~ how on earth have I missed the monumental Nick tv show about a boy band?! This is ridiculous! Why did nobody tell me? They not only have some madcap adventures on tv, but they are prepping their debut album for release in October. If it is like their lead off single Til I Forget About You, it promises to be a power pop extravaganza the likes of which haven't been seen since the glory days of The Click Five (are they still going?!) Season 2 has just started on Nick, so I'm busy playing catch up so I can keep up with the tween phenomenon!

Other established boy band goodness coming your way this "fall"... new take that! new A1! new Westlife! new McFly! new JLS! More Wanted! And they say boy bands are over... Who else should I be checking out?

It's absolutely no secret at all that I am a pop boy through and through. I like my music bright, cheerful, danceable, sometimes heartbreaking, loud and energetically, unashamedly pop. And that's ok. But sometimes pop music comes in other forms which make me yearn for something outside my comfort zone. I'm not always as vocal about the songs I come across that perhaps don't fit neatly into my "pop" genre, but that doesn't mean I love them any less. Here are three that I currently adore muchly...

Frankie & The Heartstrings ~ Fragile:

I first wrote about F&TH back in January and have followed their progress ever since. They've managed to turn a dedicated online following into an active fanbase, which has lead to the release of the track you see above. And what an exquisitely crafted tune it is - from the earnest building of the 60s infused verse structure through to a lovely melodic chorus, lead singer Frankie takes us on a tale of lamentable love doused in retro-pop sensibilities. There's a drama in the lyrics that gives the songwriting a real frisson of raw emotion; in turn this gives the music a real relateability regardless of where you are in your life. And by concentrating on creating music that has a timeless feel, it eschews current trends but I suspect will sound equally delightful in 10 years time, rather than dated and dreary. Definitely one to watch.

My First Tooth ~ Orchards:


My First Tooth are a real quirky kick in the backside. They take folk based music and soak it in a rich melodic and harmonious pop structure that gives the delivery a real passion. Think Surfjan Stevens but not... There's a je ne sais quoi about them that draws you in and makes their tunes part of your larger collective daily experience. Orchards is their new single, and one that aims for the sky in it's ambitious delivery and actually hits the mark too. It's jangly and perky, with some bonkers violin action going on right in the middle of the song, making you feel deliriously giddy with the energy and emotion it creates.. The harmonies are lovely and it's a warm, engaging ditty that I can only imagine would sound brilliant and energetic on a live stage. I'm definitely off to check out some of their earlier work that was released late last year. Alcopop are certainly churning out some quality bands lately :)

Candle Thieves ~ Breathing (Just For You):

True story - I personally like to think the parenthisised 'just for you' is, in fact, just for me. That may be incredibly narcissistic though :/ Perhaps that is just one of the other misfortunes spoken about on their very good indeed debut album Sunshine & Other Misfortunes which takes upbeat perky pop melodies and mixes them with downbeat lyrical genius. Their latest single, Breathing, is a sweet and sour addition to this canon - it continues with their use of unusual instruments (glockenspiel, casio - i think?!), weaves in their magical ability to develop an instantly ingratiating and lush melody and wallops out an entirely mesmerising chorus that is full of joyous harmonies. It's all underscored with a lovely galloping syncopated rhythm that drives the song forward and makes it an ideal choice for chart success. Gorgeous. (Bright Lights as the next single please)...

I was very tired yesterday (shocker) so decided not to do a blog, even though I had a nice boyband one semi written in my head (which this morning has merged into something even more glorious). But then just as I was ready to curl up for a couple of hours of Withering Tights and season 5 of Weeds, I discovered a few new pop songs that made me want to weep at the near perfect musical majesty that was coming out of my headphones. So two different artists and two different songs, but both completely worth many many minutes of your time...

Bright Light Bright Light, Love Part II:

There has already been lots of much deserved buzz about the Rod Thomas led musical act Bright Light x2. He is beloved by bloggers, gotten so much attention on Larry Flick's Morning Jolt and has now been signed to Popjustice's new music label Popjustice HiFi. This is very pleasing news indeed because his first single "proper" (read my thoughts on A New Word To Say - still in my top twenty most played songs - here) Love Part II is all sorts of brilliance. It's a synth-dance beat driven love song about a boy who has made our Rod realise that love and all its associated risks are totally worth putting your heart on the line. The verses are bass heavy, being powered forward by a drum beat and a sincere, sweet endearing vocal before being lead into a gloriously swirling chorus - the music seems to let go and be free just at the same time as the lyrics ("Do what you want with me/let everybody see/that i'm in love again"). It's almost the boy version of Hearts Don't Lie by Gabriella Cilmi - deliriously gleeful, packed with melody and a huge sing a long chorus that makes you feel better just knowing it exists in the universe. It's all stripped back a little during the middle 8, but then the chorus comes back in and magic happens all over again. AND! If that wasn't enough, you can download the b-side for free over at PopjusticeHifi - Cry At Films (only featuring Del Marquis of the Scissor Sisters on guitar! Crikey!) reminds me a little bit of a modern take on Halo James or Breathe. It's a more melancholy track than Love Part II as Rod questions where he went wrong in the relationship - god, if it's because he cries at films, then I'm screwed. it's delivered so earnestly and there is an innate sadness in the vocal delivery that it's hard not to get swept into the emotion of the song and feel a little blue. Heavenly though, and you can always flip Love Part II back on to cheer yourself up again. One of 2010's most amazing new pop heroes...

Darin, Lovekiller:

While the world was waiting for the new Darin single, he quickly whipped out the absolutely delightful, romantic, swoon-fest that is my number 3 most played song this week, Can't Stop Love. he may have mimed in his performance of it, but he looked just adorable in his modern take on a tux and lip synched with such passion and sincerity that it gave the song an extra layer of excellence. I thought he may have delayed this song based on the success of that, but no - here it is and dare I say it is better than the brilliance of Can't Stop Love. It's a freaking pop masterpiece. It starts off as a string lead, dramatic reading with the occassional crashing boom and some direct and to the point lyrics as it all builds up to the largest chorus this side of a BWO comeback. "You're a cold blooded murderer" sings Darin as a choir belts out "MURDERER" and instantly it puts the quite good actually Diana Vickers, The Boy Who Murdered Love to shame... The fact that it's all set over a slightly updated musical instrumental that is more than reminiscent of Richard Marx's Hazard only adds to the bonkers genius of the song. In an alternative universe, Joe McElderberry would come back with a song like this and prove his "theatre boy only" critics wrong. However, this moment belongs to Darin and it bodes incredibly well for his upcoming album. Joy of joys :) (Scandipop loves it too! Poppostergirl is Darin-amoured; SwedishStereo is all over it like a rash :P)

Coming soon: Some delightful indie-pop; boy bands; perhaps that Pipettes-TheLike-Rose Elinor Dougal album reviews triple threat post that has been bobbing in my head for weeks...