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Category Archives: Madonna

Madonna’s “Rebel Heart” leaked and landed on iTunes : TRACKBYTRACK ALBUMREVIEW

22 Monday Dec 2014

Posted by d1esel6 in Album Review, Madonna, MUSIC

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D'Angelo, D'Angelo Black Messiah, Madonna, Madonna Nicki Minaj, Madonna Rebel Heart, Madonna Rebel Heart Review, Nicki Minaj, Rebel Heart Review

MADONNA-REBEL-HEARTAs usual, I’m late. Sunday afternoon, after one of many naps, I looked at my iPhone and saw an alert from Spotify that a few new Madonna songs were available. That Friday, I remember seeing something on IMDB about how Madonna‘s upcoming 13th album “Rebel Heart” had leaked online. Knowing the songs were on Spotify and iTunes come Sunday was a bit surprising, but I figured that Madonna was on some “fuck you, pay me” stuff and her and her team decided to upload 6 of the leaked tracks to iTunes and make the album available as a pre-order.

I’m sure her pre-order sales are massive, because it’s MADONNA and it was mandatory for all the gays to buy whatever she has available. (I’m just not sure how this will show up on Billboard!?) I eventually went ahead and followed suit, but I was definitely hesitant at first. I wasn’t initially impressed with the previews on iTunes, I felt they were a smidge “reductive”. The day went on, and I kept thinking about the release. I kept thinking about the direction Madonna seemed to be taking and the odd decision to go ahead and release the material for purchase.

Than it dawned on me as I remembered a comment someone made on IMDB about the leaked material. Someone thought it might have been purposefully leaked by her camp to get an idea of what the masses thought of the music. Which is actually not a bad idea after that “MDNA” debacle. And when you listen to the 6 songs, you get the impression that there might not be a CLEAR direction for this album. Of course, once it’s released on March 10th 2015 there are supposed to be 19 tracks in total (all are untitled as of now, except for a song called “Mona Lisa”), and the album might be totally complete.

But the idea that MAYBE Madonna’s camp leaked the music to get opinions from fans inspired me to go ahead and download the 6 songs, which is somewhat an EP at this point right? At first, I was just going to download the few songs I liked based on the previews. Those would be the first three tracks, plus “Illuminati”, and then I decided to just go ahead and get the entire thing. The purpose was to come up with a sort of “Career Advice” post about the direction of the album based on the 6 songs.

Instead of that, I’m just going to go back to a format I used just once (I think). The Track by Track Review. Just off the bat, I like half of what Madonna delivered and the other half is kinda meh. I’m on the fence right now, I’m not totally excited about the March release but I’m very curious. However I am glad I bought the songs (I didn’t pre-order because… iTunes just sucks with pre-orders. You end up getting songs twice and… yeah it’s just not the business), because I have something to talk about today!

“Living for Love”

Predictably, the GAYS LOVE this song so far. And why not, it’s a nice inspirational little dance song that is very anthemic and classic sounding. It’s definitely paying a bit of homage to the Gospel-House songs of the 90’s, with the positive-minded “I Will Survive” type lyrics and the background sounds of a choir-like presence. It’s reminiscent of that style of Dance music, but it’s a lot softer which is totally appropriate and makes this song it’s own. Add the fact that there is a really nice keyboard sequence coming out of the hooks that give the song a contemporary edge.

The only complaint I could think of is with the lyrics which come off as sometimes very corny, but overall the words flow nicely with the production, and it ends up being a very satisfying feel-good type record.

Grade: B +

“Devil Pray”

This song is heavy on the acoustic guitar, and it has a powerful message (I’m assuming) to match. She talks about the decay of the world and how unity can bring it back. “If you wanna save your soul, then we can travel all together, and make the devil pray”. It’s a nice song, but honestly the part that gives me life is the pitch-controlled “save my soul” that comes right after the hooks. It’s an element that really saves this song and makes it exciting, and makes it 2015 and not a total throwback Madonna sound (the guitars remind me of “Don’t Tell Me” and “Miles Away”). This will take some growing on me, but it’s definitely a NICE song.

Grade: B –

 

“Ghosttown”

FLAWLESS. This is a beautiful song that’s beautifully layered. It has little pieces of different genres and different decades, with a ridiculously catchy hook. It’s definitely the shining light and saving grace of this release, because it really is one of her best songs in a long while. Everything about this song, from production to vocal delivery and lyrics, is on point.

Grade: A

 

“Unoplogetic Bitch”

While one can definitely groove to this Reggae-Light track, it’s the most irritating to me because it just doesn’t sound like a Madonna song. In fact, it sounds like a Rihanna song that Madonna got her hands on and decided to FORCE her voice onto it. It just doesn’t sound right, there’s something very off-putting about the track overall and ultimately I think that Madonna is just out of place on this song and maybe it should have been a duet between her and say… M.I.A. As it stands, it feels very un-organic and one that’s easy to skip over. Though… it may grow on me.

Grade: D

 

“Illuminati”

Seems like Madonna has taken it upon herself to say “bollocks” the all the Illuminati talk going around the blogs. She says this without saying too much at all, because the lyrics are really FUN (even though the delivery is slightly dark), “everybody in the party, shining like Illuminati”. I actually enjoy that balance, because the production here is really good, really dark and really NOW. It’s definitely the most ambitious of the 6 tracks, and it’s definitely a song that will grow on me, and fast!

Grade: A –

 

“Bitch I’m Madonna” featuring Nicki Minaj

When I heard the previews, I deemed this the WORST song of the 6. And it’s the one I wanted to like the most! I think in a few write ups I’ve done for this blog I’ve said, literally, that the Queen of Pop needs to OWN that title and say “Bitch, I’m Madonna!” and she did on this song. I do feel like the song is a tad generic though, generic and slightly uninspired. Plus I don’t feel the attitude that is needed for a song like this is really matched with Madonna’s vibe. She should have attacked this with much more strength and ego, but she sounds typically high-pitched and girl-like.

I will admit though, the song is catchy AF and I really don’t hate it anymore.

Grade: C

 

So that’s that! “Rebel Heart” will be officially released March 10th, and I hear that more songs will become available in February. For now, we have what Madonna deems as an “early Christmas present” in these 6 songs, which are pretty okay and make us fans very inquisitive about the new outing. It’s not clear really what the overall theme or direction the album will have, because all 6 songs are pretty different. It’s just good knowing we have new music from the Queen coming soon. (Now… WHERE IS RIHANNA!!!)

-BTW.  I DID buy D’Angelo‘s “Black Messiah” last week the day it was released. I am a big D’Angelo fan, and was really excited to hear the news and hear the album. Now I like what I’ve heard so far, but I can’t really say I’ve been in the right mood to listen to the entire thing. Once I do, I’ll come back on here and talk about it. Maybe sometime before the end of the week. I just wanted to say that because some of you might have been wondering.

Top 10 Biggest Comebacks (excerpt from Full Blast Magazine) : IMO

03 Tuesday Apr 2012

Posted by d1esel6 in Aerosmith, Cher, Chris Brown, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Marvin Gaye, Meatloaf, MUSIC, Santana, The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner

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For Your Information, my writing isn’t just devoted to this blog… Over the years I have contributed pieces to different blogs and online magazines as well. The online magazine I have contributed the most to has been Full Blast Magazine, which went on a hiatus almost a year ago. Fortunately, the magazine just launched it’s first new issue in so long and in the spirit of the magazine coming back, I decided to write a Top 10 list of the Biggest most Memorable Comebacks in Music.

Of course, I want you to actually go to Full Blast Magazine to check out the full article as well as the interviews and reviews in the new issue. However, I do want to give my readers here the gist of what I worked up. Here goes…

10. Chris Brown
The now infamous night nearly dimmed the very bright future that was Chris Brown’s career, it seemed like he was on his way out. In 2011 though, Chris released an amazing album in “F.A.M.E.” which resulted in Brown having one of the best selling albums of that year and earning his first Grammy.

9. Cher
A Comeback doesn’t always have to be returning from a tragic place. Cher’s album and #1 single “Believe” gave the Diva a whole new audience in the younger generation. Her Comeback was less of a return to form, but a return to relevancy.

8. The Rolling Stones
In the mid to late 70’s The Stones’ shocking publicity stunts and over exposure started to wane on the public. Then came 1978’s “Some Girls” album, a huge critical and commercial success that made the public pay attention to their music again.

7. Madonna
Madge suffered one of the biggest media backlashes ever in the early 90’s, and it wasn’t until she scored the much sought after lead in “Evita” and shortly after announced her pregnancy that the masses started to pay attention to her again. The album that followed, “Ray of Light”, was a critical and commercial success and earned Madonna her first Grammy in a major category.

6. Meatloaf
1977’s “Bat Out of Hell” is one of the best selling albums of all time, but Meat Loaf’s career after such phenomenal success did not translate to his 4 subsequent albums. 1993’s “Bat Out of Hell II : Back Into Hell” placed #1 in 9 different countries, while the breakout single “I Would Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)” earned him his first Grammy and topped the charts in 28 countries. From near obscurity to one of the more Iconic players in Rock

5. Mariah Carey
Outside of Mariah’s ‘Lambs’ most people had written her off after her divorce, subsequent shedding of clothes and buddy-ing up to Hip Hop stars. 2005’s “The Emancipation of Mimi” was the Comeback that was long overdue, scoring one of her biggest singles and Billboard’s #1 song of the last decade “We Belong Together”, she also won her first Grammy in over 15 years and the overall public opinion turned positive.

4. Aerosmith
Around the mid-70’s Aerosmith’s moderate success started to dip. Surprisingly, in 1986 the Rock group collaborated with Rap duo Run DMC on a re-working of their song “Walk This Way”, and it instantly transformed the group into relevant Rockers for the MTV generation.

3. Marvin Gaye
Motown King Marvin Gaye was literally “washed up” in Europe, homeless and floating in debt before he signed a new record deal and released 1982’s “Midnight Love”. The album was a hit, and his Iconic single “Sexual Healing” became a #1 hit, earning him his first two Grammy’s in his 30 plus year career.

2. Santana
The band had major success through the 70’s and 80’s in Latin Rock circles, but it wasn’t until 1999 when they signed with Arista Records and released “Supernatural” did they become a mainstream phenomenon. It was their first #1 album in 28 years, they also acheived their very first #1 Single (“Smooth”). In the end “Supernatural” sold 27 million copies, topped the charts in several countries and earned 9 Grammys.

1. Tina Turner
We all know the triumphant story by now. After her divorce from Ike, Tina found it hard to find success on her own and was relatively out of sight for the remainder of the 70’s. “Private Dancer”, her 1984 album, gave her break out solo success with 3 Top 10 Hits including the #1 single “What’s Love Got To Do WIth It”. The album garnered 4 Grammy’s and established her as The Queen of Rock and Roll. If it wasn’t for the success of “Private Dancer”, who knows what her legacy might have been.

Full article here!

My Top 10 Songs of the Week “Feature This!” : MYFAVORITES

02 Monday Apr 2012

Posted by d1esel6 in Beyoncé, Coldplay, Drake, Ludacris, Madonna, Major Lazer, Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott, MUSIC, MYFAVORITES, Sleigh Bells, The Strokes, The-Dream, Top 10 Songs of the Week

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No write-ups this week, sorry. And I guess somehow the Top 10 day has changed from Friday to Monday. Temporary? We’ll see. Anyway Enjoy!

10. Drake feat. The-Dream “Shut It Down”

9. Mariah Carey feat. Damian ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley “Cruise Control”

8. Madonna feat. M.I.A. “B-Day Song”

7. The Strokes “The Modern Age”

6. Mariah Carey feat. Krayzie Bone and Da Brat “I Still Believe/ Pure Imagination (Damizza Remix)”

5. Missy Elliot feat. Ludacris “Gossip Folks”

4. Beyonce “I Miss You”

3. Sleigh Bells “End of the Line

2. Major Lazer feat. Collie Buddz and Lindi Ortega “Good Enuff (Cash Flow Dub)
**dam, sorry but I can’t find a link to this anywhere!?**

1. Coldplay “Paradise”

Top 10 Madonna Videos : MYFAVORITES

28 Wednesday Mar 2012

Posted by d1esel6 in Madonna, MYFAVORITES

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Madonna, Madonna Music Videos, Madonna Videos, MDNA, MDNA Week, MyFavorites, Top 10 Madonna Music Videos, Top 10 Madonna Videos

“MDNA” Week continues… and how could I possibly have a Madonna week and not celebrate her amazing Videography. From her start, she’s been making videos that are groundbreaking, taboo, dramatic, sexy, thought provoking, controversial and every thing in between. The Queen of Re-Invention often used her music videos to shock with a new look, or just shock with the concepts or social commentary. The only problem was narrowing the list down to a Top 10, as so many awesome videos had to be left out (some of my favorites that suffered from the chopping block : “Music”, “Borderline”, “Justify My Love”, “Die Another Day” and “Bedtime Story”) but I think this Top 10 is a very comprehensive list. Debatable? Sure, but enjoy it anyway and Know that I Heart comments!!

10. “Vogue”
I don’t think I could make any kind of list about Madonna’s career without involving her signature “Vogue”. And Yes this video is a classic one, with the first mainstream introduction to ‘Voguing’, and Madonna giving FACE and BODY and STYLE. It’s one of her most timeless videos.

9. “Don’t Tell Me”
One of those videos that make you appreciate the song even more. It’s relatively simple, but some of the subtle effects used along with the contemporary line-dance make the video totally stand out as one of her most fun and vibrant videos.

8. “Express Yourself”
This video has a ton of Iconic images from the Queen, from the suit wearing crotch grab, the platinum blonde bob drinking the cat milk, and her “girl in chains” image among others. It’s a lot, but never too much, and overall it’s like a piece of art in motion

7. “Ray of Light”
Beware, this hyper-paced video could cause epileptic seizures! However if you can hold out long enough, you’ll get a very unique video that strangely enough perfectly matches the hyper-paced song it’s for.

6. “Open Your Heart”
Another Iconic Madonna video, her old school peep show for underage eyes has Madonna looking great and being almost sexier than any of her previous videos. One could probably read too much into the video, but there’s no need because ultimately it’s just a Fun video for a Fun Pop song.

5. “Papa Don’t Preach”
Madonna’s first “Mini-Movie”, she grabbed an acclaimed actor Danny Aiello to bring to life the story of a teenage girl dealing with impending pregnancy. The song and concept were timely and rather risky for a big Pop artist like Madge, but the video is so perfectly paced and the drama and emotion are totally felt. It’s a bit of an edge of your seat video, will Papa Preach or not!? Watch and find out.

4. “Rain”
Madonna and Director Mark Romanek made the very sterile world of electronics and A/V equipment look classic and just beautiful. “Rain” is one of Madge’s most beautiful songs, so the video matches up perfectly with it. It’s the contrast of making beauty out of the cold behind the scenes world that makes the video so effective and moving.

3. “Take a Bow”
Allegedly, this video helped Madonna get the role of “Evita” and you can see why. Such a dramatic TeleNovella-like video with so much passion and intensity and emotion. She looks amazing, the story is so well put together, and the direction and visuals are perfect for the tone and feel of the song. A true Masterpiece, and at the time a very subdued and classy Madonna that people weren’t used to seeing.

2. “Human Nature”
A fierce, risky, sexy and unique dance video that for so many reasons is easily one of her best. It’s completely captivating, the dancing and staging in the boxes were truly innovative (how many videos tried to copy that afterwards), and in true chameleon form Madonna gives us another unexpected yet Hot look. Top notch and unforgettable video.

1. “Bad Girl”
One of Madonna’s most underrated songs from one of her most underrated albums, and this excellent video is also one of her most underrated outings. With Christopher Walken co-starring as some sort of contemporary grim reaper, she tells the story of a woman hitting a breaking point with her destructive lifestyle. The styling is perfection and the story is tragic, yet you can’t look away and you never get bored watching it.

“MDNA” gives Madonna Fans Few Highlights and Heavy Filler : Album Review

27 Tuesday Mar 2012

Posted by d1esel6 in Album Review, Madonna, MUSIC

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Madonna, Madonna MDNA, madonna mdna review, MDNA, mdna review, MDNA Week

What would “MDNA” Week be without a review for “MDNA”!? It would suck, so here we go… Being a life-long Madonna fan, I usually get really excited before the release of a new album. With “MDNA“, her 12th released this week, there was a lot more apprehension than excitement. The biggest fears came from the two singles “Give Me All Your Luvin'” and “Girl Gone Wild” which seemed very uninspired coming from a Queen whose known for taking risks and pushing boundaries. “Luvin'” came off entirely too Young and Pop-ish to be taken seriously, while “Girl” felt like standard Dance/Pop Top 40 fare with nothing at all intriguing or new. The fear for “MDNA” was that it would be way too commercial and have Madonna, a LEGEND, dumbing down her sound to fit in with the Katy Perry’s and Ke$ha’s of the world. Luckily, the album isn’t too far into the “Desperate Young-sounding angle”, but it’s also not far enough into the “Mature Adult Artist angle” either. The end result being a very mish-mosh and uneven album even when it has some great shining moments. What the album really needed was a objective editor, the album is a bit over-long and with a bunch of filler. Had certain songs been taken out, the album would have felt better on the whole. Songs like “Some Girls” “Superstar” (Lady GaGa and Katy Perry sounding, respectively) and “Best Friend” are so run of the mill, they have no place on the album which at it’s best moments does try to reach for new ground — or at least involves more thoughtful and creative production, which those songs do not. Eliminating the Basic would have benefited the album and made the strong cuts stand out even more. Speaking on the highlights though, “Gang Bang” is a very interesting and intense production (though the lyrics getting repetitive and annoying after a while). “Love Spent” has word play and very intriguing and ever changing production. I happen to love when Madonna get’s all 60’s on us with “B-Day Song” and another stand out track “I’m A Sinner”, she sounds more alive and confident on these tracks than pretty much anything else on the album. While “I F**cked Up” is a stellar electro-ballad that’s easily the most heartfelt and personal on the album (without being too maudlin like say “Falling Free”). “MDNA” fulfills the Madonna-itch that most of her fans have been feeling since the let-down of “Hard Candy” nearly 4 years ago, but as an album it doesn’t feel as cohesive as that album. As fans we expect a lot from Madonna, and the new album doesn’t do much to show the Artist we know she can be. Fun, Danceable, Catchy… yes! However 12 albums in, Madonna should be giving us a lot more than just that. 3 of 5 Best: I’m A Sinner, I Fvcked Up, Love Spent

Discography Review: Madonna (1998-2008)

27 Tuesday Mar 2012

Posted by d1esel6 in Discography Review, Madonna, MUSIC

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American Life, American Life Review, Confessions on a Dancefloor, Confessions on a Dancefloor Review, Discography Review, Hard Candy, Hard Candy Review, Madonna, Madonna American Life, Madonna American Life Review, Madonna Confessions on a Dance Floor, Madonna Confessions on a Dance Floor Review, Madonna Discography, Madonna Discography Review, Madonna Hard Candy, Madonna Hard Candy Review, Madonna Music, Madonna Music Review, Madonna Ray of Light, Madonna Ray of Light Review, MDNA Week, Music, Music Review, Ray of Light, Ray of Light Review

It’s “MDNA” Week! As Madonna releases her 12th album tomorrow (actually available on iTunes now), it should be fun to look back at her extensive and very diverse Discography to give some perspective on this new outing. In 1997 Madonna came back from a 3 year break and totally switched her sound up. Most of her albums following that groundbreaking hit followed suit, but in different ways. From 1997, up until her last album before “MDNA”, Madonna hit some triumphant high’s and some low’s but still maintained her Queen of Pop label easily.

So let’s get “MDNA” Week Officially going!

After owning the 80’s, the early 90’s were not such a great time for Madonna. She was suffering a pretty severe media backlash, and although some of her best work was released during this time, mainstream didn’t seem to give two fvcks. That is until she won the coveted title role in the film adaptation of “Evita”, followed shortly by the news she was pregnant with her first child. She scored a Golden Globe win for “Evita” and it looked like she was back in the good graces of the public. Meaning all eyes were on her highly anticipated “Ray of Light” album. And surprisingly, since it was such a stark contrast to her earlier work, the album became a huge commercial and critical success.

Madonna had shown diversity in her work up till this album, going from House to R&B to Pop, but with “Ray of Light” she chose to attack a underground genre (and the UK Underground specifically) mixing her Superstar status to an Electronica sound. The result is a beautiful mix of William Orbit’s lush yet complicated tracks and Madonna’s lyrical and melodic gifts. Orbit might have stolen the show with his very ambient, polished and almost soothing brand of Electronica, but matched with Madonna’s very introspective lyrics it makes the album an amazing stand out in her career.

Lyrically, she’s in full reflection mode, tackling her love/hate relationship with Fame (“Drowned World/Substitute for Love”, “Ray of Light”), how celebrity had affected her outlook on love (“Frozen”), and of course celebrating the life-changing job of being a mother (“Little Star”). Vocally, thanks to the training for “Evita”, she’s the best we’ll ever hear her. Everything Madonna brings to the table is top notch, very thoughtful and perfectly executed. Every now and than the relaxing vibe is interrupted by a louder more aggressive number, but overall it’s a classic album for Madonna. She really stepped out and risked a lot and it paid off in a huge way.

Rating: 4.5 stars
Best: Ray of Light, Drowned World/Substitute for Love, Skin

With “Music“, a short 10 track album, Madonna was able to balance out what was great about her previous Award winner with a throwback to her more fun side. Mirwais, who produced the bulk of the album, seamlessly mixes the very heartfelt and ambient stuff of “Ray of Light”, but also ups the tempo with some amazing Dance stuff as well. From the now classic title track, to single “Don’t Tell Me” and the insane “Impressive Instant”, you get the fun and catchiness Madonna was famous for. And with the beautiful “What It Feels Like For A Girl”, “Nobody’s Perfect” and “Gone”, you get the introspective and heartfelt lyrics we now knew she was capable of.

“Music” is easily one of my Top 3 Madonna albums, it’s just a great listen from start to finish. Amazing, inventive and inspired production from Mirwais and a fun joyful but still personal Madonna. Just a great collaboration and a great album.

Rating: 5 stars
Best: What It Feels Like For A Girl, Music, Impressive Instant

Coming after “Music”, Madonna delivered her most hard edged aggressive and risky album yet in the form of “American Life“. Easily my least favorite Madge outing, but even I have to appreciate her for going there and not compromising. The album was produced mainly by Mirwais again, ditching any elements of Pop and giving listeners a really intense and loud album that is full-on Electronia with no commercial filter. With the key-screeching on “I’m So Stupid”, and the stuttering electro-blips on the title track, it’s almost a Noise-Pop album before that term was even invented. The album does have a softer side in tracks like “Love Profusion” and “X-Static Process”, but overall the album doesn’t work for me, but still has some amazing career stand outs. “Nothing Fails” is a heartfelt ballad that truly gave me goosebumps the first time I heard it (and to this day). “Hollywood” the aforementioned “I’m So Stupid” and James Bond theme “Die Another Day” are other stand outs for me.

If you can take the noise, there’s some very personal lyricism on the album. A little grating for me, but still a decent album that’s worthy of checking out.

Rating: 2.5 stars
Best: Nothing Fails, Die Another Day, I’m So Stupid

After going so incredibly Dark, Madonna’s next album “Confessions on a Dancefloor” lightened up the mood a bit. This time collaborating largely with Stuart Price, she delivered a true Dance album. However it’s not just simple 4 to the Floor beats and simplistic lyrics (we’ll get there pretty soon), Price structures complicated futuristic tracks that may be some of the best production Madonna has sung to. There’s some motivational, inspirational tracks that pepper the album but overall it’s Madonna getting back to being fun. The mega-hit “Hung Up” is a tongue and cheek Disco-homage, “I Love New York” has in-arguably some of Madonna’s worst lyrics but the Electro-Rock track is just so fun and catchy you don’t even care. And though there are some great lyrics here and there, the album is more focused on a feeling and vibe without getting too deep. And in that way it’s a excellent album, it all flows so well together and again Madonna got even more stand out cuts for her lengthy discography. “Get Together” is perfection, one of my favorite Madonna cuts ever. “Forbidden Love”, “Let It Will Be”, pretty much every song here is a winner and one that can stand on it’s own, but as a complete album it’s just ecstasy.

Rating: 4.5 stars
Best: Get Together, Hung Up, Forbidden Love

“Hard Candy” was a perfect title for what Madonna set out to do with her next album. By enlisting Timbaland and Neptunes’ Pharrell Williams, she wanted to add a harder Hip Hop edge to her sweet Pop Dance sounds. One thing about this album, you can’t help but dance your way through it. The guys provide her with some dance-floor ready beats that make you ignore the other short comings of the songs. Those short comings though are really evident throughout the album, and another reason why “Hard Candy” is such an appropriate title because there’s almost zero substance to any of it. There are a few tracks where there’s actually a point (“Devil Wouldn’t Recognize You” and oddly “Give It 2 Me”), but the majority are just party numbers where “get up on the dancefloor” and “see my booty get down” are pretty much the standard. It’s catchy stuff, and given songs like “My Humps” and “Sexyback” were dominating airwaves, seems like Madonna wanted a chance to just be silly and fun.

The lasting impression is it’s a really fun album, but not as innovative and thoughtful as we had come to expect from Madge at the point. And frankly, being a huge Neptunes and Timbaland fan some of their material was a little dated already. Pharrell really came to play and gave her some creative and different tracks (“Incredible”, “Give it 2 Me”) and Timbaland contributed a true gem in “Miles Away”, but it just had a “been there done that” “you can do better” feel.

Rating: 3 stars
Best: Heartbeat, Candy Shop, Incredible

My Top 10 Songs of the Week! “Am I A Man… or…” : MYFAVORITES

26 Monday Mar 2012

Posted by d1esel6 in Amy Adams, Barrington Levy, Beyoncé, Bob Marley, Jason Segel, Jennifer Hudson, M.I.A., Madonna, Major Lazer, MUSIC, Sleigh Bells, The Muppets, The Partysquad, Usher

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Amy Adams, Barrington Levy, beyonce, Bob Marley, Bob Marley and the Wailers, Deena Jones, Diplo, Dreamgirls, Effie White, Jason Segel, Jennifer Hudson, M.I.A., Madonna, Major Lazer, MIA, Miss Piggy, My Top 10 Songs of the Week, Sleigh Bells, Switch, The Muppets, The Partysquad, Top 10, Top 10 Songs, Top 10 Songs of the Week, Usher, Walter

Happy Monday!
Some of you might be wondering… “What the hell happened to the Top 10 Songs this past Friday?” Well as “MDNA Week” begins today, last week was “Midterm” week with so many papers due and tests to study for. By Friday, I was spent… I did a rough draft of seven songs but when I got home I didn’t even log onto the computer before falling off to sleep. So sorry for the wait, but it’s cool because I can add a few songs I was loving (and rather embarrassed that I couldn’t get out of my head) over the weekend.

10. Madonna “Girl Gone Wild”
still not going crazy over the song, but the video that came out last week is pretty amazing. sexy, visually stunning, good dancing, and Madge looks great. definitely brought a new dimension to the song, which is still a very basic output. (get ready for “MDNA Week!”)

9. Beyonce “Dreamgirls”
How did I get Here? I forget now, but one song led to another which led to another and somehow I landed on the “Dreamgirls” movie soundtrack and this was one of the highlights. The scene is so pretty, and Beyonce’s err Deena’s spin towards the end gives me life every time.

8.(tie) Jason Segel & Walter “Man or Muppet”/ Amy Adams & Miss Piggy “Me Party”
Yes! I Went There. So I’m a kid of the 80’s so The Muppets were like my heroes, so when the recent movie “The Muppets” was released for rent I had to see it. And these two campy, cheesy and hilarious songs stuck in my head for the whole weekend. I still have “I’m a Muppety Man” replaying in my mind.

7. Bob Marley & The Wailers “War”
First line: “Until the philosophy which hold one race superior, and another inferior, Is Finally and Permanently Discredited and Abandoned, Everywhere is War!” … enough said! #TrayvonMartin

6. Jennifer Hudson “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”
Did Jennifer sing the Hell out of this song!!?? Yes she did!!! After not seeing the movie or hearing the soundtrack for a minute, I came back to this and was as impressed as when I heard it the first time. She did a phenomenal job.

5. Sleigh Bells “End of the Line”
I BOUGHT an album this weekend (well two! thanks Sopa! *laugh), this had been on my wish list for a while and I JUST finished it, but this song was an early stand out. It’s so peaceful, but still has those heavy and intense synths that the Bells are known for now. Could this be a single that makes top 40!? Who cares, but it’s an awesome song.
(you’ll have to settle for a live clip.)

4. M.I.A. “Bird Flu”
This track is so… different! I can’t really even explain what it is that I love about it, but it’s definitely something a little off-kilter but I can still dance my butt off to it.

3. Barrington Levy “Sensimella”
Last week, I was trying to find “new/old” music from some Reggae legends. Along with Barrington I grabbed some Steel Pulse, Aswad and Black Uhuru. This song, among a few from Barrington’s “Poor Man Style” album, stuck with me.

2. Major Lazer feat. The Partysquad “Original Don”
When I first grabbed this track, I was kind of like “wtf!?”… but it’s catchy so I kept going back to it. Now I pretty much love it. Yeah sometimes it gets a little exhausting, but I love this mix of Dancehall and what I’ve been told is called HardStyle. Fun song.

1. Usher “Climax”
Usher is really out to make sure his seat as King of R&B is still his. And this song can easily do it. It’s a bit of elevated R&B, a really strange but simple track by Diplo with some great lyrics and some standard flawless and very much alive vocals by Mr. Raymond. Can’t wait to see what else is on this forthcoming album, because this song is pure gold. (And I also really love the video!)

Madonna Week is Coming!!

23 Friday Mar 2012

Posted by d1esel6 in Madonna

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Girl Gone Wild, Girl Gone Wild Gif, Madonna, Madonna MDNA, Madonna Week, MDNA, MDNA Week

Be forewarned!!

Madonna‘s “MDNA”, her 12th album, is coming out this coming Tuesday so I’m going to do what I did with Rihanna, Kanye and Jay-Z on the weeks of their big releases. A number of blog posts next week will be devoted to The Queen of Pop, including a review of “MDNA” (which I have heard already, but still letting it steep a little more in my musical mind). I haven’t decided exactly what I’m going to write about her, or how many posts… but I will definitely do a “Top 10 Music Videos” and a “Discography Review”. (If you have any other suggestions, let me know)

So just stay tuned!

Top 10 MTV VMA Performances : MYFAVORITES

26 Friday Aug 2011

Posted by d1esel6 in Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, Diddy, Jamiroquai, Janet Jackson, Kanye West, Madonna, Michael Jackson, MYFAVORITES, Red Hot Chili Peppers

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Alicia Keys, beyonce, Diddy, IMO, Jamiroquai, Janet Jackson, Kanye West, Madonna, Michael Jackson, MTV VMA, MTV VMA Best Performances, Red Hot Chili Peppers, RHCP

The MTV VMA‘s are airing this weekend (more on that later), and the list of performers this year are surprisingly un-impressive. And there are a few things that will happen at the Awards that I don’t agree with and thus I won’t be watching.

However, the VMA’s have given us music lovers some very memorable and iconic performances in it’s 27 years of broadcasting. Here are my personal favorites of all-time, the ones that have been the most memorable after all these years.

10. Kanye West“Runaway” (2010)

Seems like Kanye is always performing to redeem himself after a controversy the year before. His debut of “Love Lockdown” at 2008’s ceremony came after he went on a tirade in 2007 for not winning Video of the Year. This performance came after the Taylor Swift incident in 2009. The lyrical content (“i always find something wrong, you been putting up with my shit for way too long.” “let’s have a toast to the assholes”) worked because of the controversy, but the great thing about this performance is his use of the space. It’s very artistic in it’s simplicity, and the shocking red he wears in front of the mostly white backdrop also works so well in a really strange way.

9. Janet Jackson“That’s The Way Love Goes/If” (1993)

Her 1993 Album “janet.” brought out the sexy side of Ms. Jackson If Ya Nasty and it was only appropriate for her to bring that sexiness out on stage. And she definitely brought it with this mini-medley of her two huge MTV hits that year. Her choreography was on point, going from sexy to high energy and intricacy. And if she was lipping, well she did a clever job because the vocals aren’t exactly like the album recordings, so props for that. Easily one of her best performances, and one that most Pop chicks should study.

8. Alicia Keys“No One/Freedom” (2007)

Britney got all the attention that year for her ultimate-hot-mess of a performance of “Gimme More”, but Alicia emerged as the true artist that year and she gave one of her best live performances. She debuted the monster hit single “No One, and it was obviously a song at the time she was really into because it’s clear she put her heart into the performance. Than she switched things up and did a short cover of George Michael’s classic “Freedom 90”, and it felt like a big party. One of the few performances where Alicia seemed to be genuinely having fun.

7. Jamiroquai“Virtual Insanity” (1997)

Jay Kay and crew hit MTV big time with their video “Virtual Insanity” (which ended up taking home best Video of the Year), the video was such a hit because people wondered what effect was used to get his sort of “treadmill” room to operate. And the best thing about this performance is he (tried at least) brought that effect to life. In his music, you can tell he’s a soulful cat who commits 110% to every line he sings and when he performs it’s the same, and evident in this clip. He’s just so entertaining to watch.

6. Beyonce“Baby Boy/Crazy In Love” (2003)

For her debut VMA performance (belive it or not, Destiny’s Child never had proper VMA stage time), Bey pulled out all the tricks. From being lowered upside down from the ceiling, to the Rockette style “uh-oh”dance, this performance was wall to wall energy. And she sang live and danced her heart out, she was really trying to impress on her first time and it’s safe to say she did (from the looks of that Standing O).

5. Diddy“Bad Boy For Life/ I Need A Girl/ Pass The Courvoisier” (2002)

Talk about everything but the kitchen sink. Diddy spent a lot of time and money on this extravagant performance in 2002. He had just come off a summer of hits from his Remix album and this was a good medley of a few of those club bangers. He brought out Usher, Pharrell, Busta Rhymes and Ginuwine… as well as a troupe of dancers, weird acrobatics, explosions, glass shattering and pretty much every thing you can think of that would fit on the stage safely. Still, without the bells and whistles this was a really impressive performance from him. His dancing was on point (well), and it was just a good time on stage in general. We can look past his obvious lipping right!?

4. Madonna“Like A Virgin” (1984)

This is probably the most memorable performance of the VMA’s of All-Time for several reasons. This was the first annual presentation of the awards, and one of the first times Madonna did a big performance of her uber-hit “Like a Virgin”. No, it really isn’t the most impressive work from an artist on the stage, but the shock value of this sexually charged “bride” rolling around on the ground was actually quite taboo at the time. It became a bit of a controversy, and this might be what started Madonna’s envelope-pushing.

3. Red Hot Chili Peppers“Give It Away” (1991)

For me personally, this is one that sticks out when I think of great VMA performances but maybe not to other people. The Peppers performed their big MTV hit “Give It Away”, and in true to Rock Star form they decided to break the rules.Well, I’m sure these people were hand selected but this was the first time (and I think only time since) that I’ve seen a band and their fans on stage together rocking out to a song. It’s just the type of energy you’d expect from the young MTV, you watched it and wanted to be on the stage with them. And Flea rocking out in his tightie-whities has become sort of an iconic image (remember their appearance on “The Simpsons”!)

2. Madonna“Vogue” (1990)

Madonna is literally the Queen and King of MTV at this point, so it figures she’d have more than one performance on this list. In 1990, this was her second year in a row performing, and this was coming off one of the biggest most successful years in her career. This performance was highly anticipated, and people just didn’t know what she was gonna do, but knew she’d do something crazy. The result is a very well executed 18th Century inspired performance of her hit “Vogue”. Though she was lipping, the performance is one of the most entertaining and engaging performances. And only Madonna could do something like this and make it work.

1. Michael Jackson Tribute Performance (2009)

The Grammy’s did a tribute, BET Awards had a tribute two years in a row, and pretty much EVERY Award show that year had a Tribute to King of Pop Michael Jackson after his surprising death. The MTV VMA’s were the only ones who really got it right, and rightfully so. MTV and Michael Jackson basically made each other, so they would know the appropriate way to tribute his talents. Mainly focusing on dance, many a famous choreographer (including Wade Robson, Tyce Diorio and Laurie Ann Gibson) donned Iconic MJ wear and tore the place up with their moves.

The icing on the cake was sister Janet Jackson coming out to the surprise of everyone and killed it. A really loving tribute, and it really did show why he was such an Icon and such an Influence to the whole MTV generation.

>MySpace Blog Reviews: A Look Back!

28 Sunday Mar 2010

Posted by d1esel6 in Adele, Akon, Al Green, Alicia Keys, Anthony Hamilton, Ashanti, Beyoncé, Brandy, Britney Spears, Chris Brown, Christina Aguilera, Ciara, Colbie Caillat, Coldplay, Common, Concert Review, Danity Kane, Day26, En Vogue, Erykah Badu, Estelle, Fall Out Boy, FloRida, Gnarls Barkley, Grammys, J. Holiday, Janet Jackson, Jason Mraz, Jazmine Sullivan, Jill Scott, John Legend, Jordin Sparks, Kanye West, Kardinal Offishall, Kevin Rudolf, Keyshia Cole, Lady Gaga, Leona Lewis, Lil Wayne, M.I.A., Madonna, Mariah Carey, Maxwell, MGMT, Music Video Review, N.E.R.D., Nas, Ne-Yo, New Kids on the Block, Panic at the Disco, Pink, Raphael Saadiq, Ray Lamontagne, Rick Ross, Rihanna, Sara Bareilles, SWV, T-Pain, T.I., The Jonas Brothers, The Killers, The Pussycat Dolls, The Roots, The Ting Tings, TLC, Usher, Vampire Weekend, Weezer

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adele, Akon, Akon Freedom Review, Akon Review, Al Green, Album Review, Alicia Keys, Anthony Hamilton, Ashanti, Award Show Review, Beck, beyonce, Beyonce I Am... Sasha Fierce Review, Beyonce Review, Black Keys, Brandy, Brandy Human Review, Brandy Review, Britney Spears, Britney Spears Circus Review, Britney Spears Review, Cee-Lo, Cee-Lo Green, CeeLo Green, Chris Brown, Christina Aguilera, Christina Aguilera Review, ciara, Ciara Review, Colbie Caillat, Coldplay, Coldplay Review, Coldplay Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends Review, Coldplay Viva La Vida Review, Common, Common Review, Common Universal Mind Control Review, Danger Mouse, Danity Kane, Danity Kane Welcome to the Dollhouse Review, day26, DAY26 Review, En Vogue, Erykah Badu, Erykah Badu New Amerykah Part One Review, Erykah Badu Review, Estelle, Fall Out Boy, Fall Out Boy Review, FloRida, Gnarls Barkley, Gnarls Barkley Review, Gnarls Barkley The Odd Couple Review, Grammy Nominations, Grammy Predictions, Grammys, J. Holiday, Janet Jackson, Janet Jackson Discipline Review, Janet Jackson Review, Jason Mraz, Jason Mraz Review, Jason Mraz We Sing We Dance We Steal Things Review, Jazmine Sullivan, Jennifer Hudson, Jill Scott, John Legend, John Legend Evolver Review, John Legend Review, Jordin Sparks, Kanye West, Kanye West 808's & Heartbreak Review, Kanye West 808's and Heartbreak Review, Kanye West Review, Kardinal Offishall, Katy Perry, Kevin Rudolf, Keyshia Cole, Lady GaGa, Leona Lewis, Lil Wayne, Lil Wayne Review, Lil Wayne Tha Carter 3 Review, Lil Wayne Tha Carter III Review, M.I.A., Madonna, Madonna Hard Candy Review, Madonna Review, Mariah Carey, Mariah Carey E=MC2 Review, Mariah Carey Review, Mary J. Blige, Maxwell, MGMT, MTV Making The Band, N*E*R*D, N*E*R*D Review, N*E*R*D Seeing Sounds Review, N.E.R.D., N.E.R.D. Review, N.E.R.D. Seeing Sounds Review, Nas, Nas Untitled Review, Ne-Yo, Ne-Yo Review, Ne-Yo Year of the Gentleman Review, New Kids on the Block, New Kids on the Block Review, New Kids on the Block The Block Review, NeYo, NeYo Review, NeYo Year of the Gentleman Review, NKOTB, NKOTB Review, NKOTB The Block Review, p!nk, P!nk Funhouse Review, P!nk Review, Panic At The Disco, Panic At The Disco PrettyOdd Review, Panic At The Disco Review, Pharrell Williams, pink, Pink Funhouse Review, Pink Review, Pleasure P, Portishead, Pussycat Dolls, Pussycat Dolls Review, Raphael Saadiq, Raphael Saadiq Review, Raphael Saadiq The Way I See It Review, Ray Lamontagne, Ray Lamontagne Gossip In The Grain Review, Ray Lamontagne Review, Rick Ross, rihanna, Robyn, Sara Bareilles, SWV, T-Pain, T-Pain Review, T-Pain Thr33 Ringz Review, T-Pain Three Ringz Review, T.I., T.I. Paper Trail Review, T.I. Review, The Black Keys, The Jonas Brothers, The Killers, The Killers Day and Age Review, The Killers Review, The Pussycat Dolls, The Pussycat Dolls Doll Domination Review, The Pussycat Dolls Review, The Racounters, The Roots, The Roots Review, The Roots Rising Down Review, The Ting Tings, The-Dream, Ting Tings, TLC, TPain, TPain Review, Usher, Usher Here I Stand Review, Usher Review, Vampire Weekend, Vanessa Hudgens, Weezer, Weezer Red Album Review, Weezer Review, Weezy

>

Here’s just a blast from the past, the couple of months in 2008 I started my MySpace blog!

May 25, 2008 – Sunday

08 Album Reviews
Current mood: high
Category: Music

I got Usher “Here I Stand” today and was going to write a little review. And I figured since i have the time (i’m at work, but theres no research work to do and no calls coming in) i’ll go ahead and talk about some of the good cd’s that have been released this year.

Gnarls Barkley, “The Odd Couple” – definitley a cooled down/melancholy-ish version of their first album but it has some great StandOut tracks that rival “Crazy” or “Smiley Faces”. My favorites are “Charity Case”, “Whatever”, “Would be Killer”, “Going on” and the first single “Run”. The tracks, by Danger Mouse, are just hella moody and than Cee-lo brings the perfect lyrical and vocal arrangements to match the tracks. I would imagine it would be hard to write to some of the tracks so i give Mr. Green all the props.

The Divas: Janet, “Discipline“/Madonna, “Hard Candy“/Mariah, “E=MC2”

Mariah Carey definitely wins this race by a mile. Madonna’s “Hard Candy” is very — Different, and i do give her credit for trying something new. i HATE the first single with Timberlake, so my expectations were very Low for this album (because “4 Minutes” and the other leaked track “Candy Shop” sounded like re-treads of Nelly Furtado/Gwen Stefani tracks). I think Pharrell is the real star of this album though, his production on “Incredible” (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Va6eBb2osrs) “Heartbeat” and “Give it 2 Me” are damn-near Amazing. These tracks renew my faith in the Neptunes (who had been slowly dying up until Jay-Z’s “I Know”). It’s a true DANCE album, and at least she sticks to that concept. Janet’s “Discipline” on the other hand starts out really good. Than, it slips into a completley different album and vibe. And than towards the end it sounds like she just tacked on some unreleased stuff from years ago (“What Ur Name” and “The 1” seriously sound like they were recorded and mixed and mastered and shelved in 2004). I think the problem is that it’s too long, she should have shaved some fillers out of the mix. Still “2Nite” “LUV” “Greatest X” and “Rock With U” are still Standouts and worth listening to over and over. And ofcourse the first single “Feedback” still has heat.

But, Mariah. I think “E=MC2” is her best album. It’s an album that has No-Filler. Every song has something about it that makes you want to come back. The album has been out almost 2 months, and it seems like i have a new favorite song every week. “Side Effects” “OOC” “For the Record” “Cruise Control” and “Migrate” ofcourse is undeniable thanks to that undeniably addictive every-Man T-Pain. Mariah took her time and put together a truly Solid Album.

The Roots, “Rising Down”

I’m not a big fan of the Roots. I own two of their albums but don’t really listen to them all that much. So ofcourse i wasn’t expecting to even Care about a new Roots album. I saw the video for “Rising Up” on BET and loved it so i was like, what the hell i’ll download it. This cd is shockingly good to me, i like every song. It’s like every song has this intensity on it that you can’t deny (“Get Busy” “The Show” “I will not apologize” for example) and every song has some pretty important lyrics that are definitley refreshing to hear. They even have some ready made Radio-friendly tracks, however i guess it’s sad because i doubt i’ll hear “Singing Man” or “Rising Up” on the radio over something like “Get Silly”. This is definitley my biggest surprise of 2008.

I take that back. Panic at the Disco, “Pretty.Odd” is oddly good. I mean it has this whole oldie Beatle early 60’s rock type vibe to it and i wasn’t expecting that from the people who sang about a bride being a “Whore” on their last album. So i guess i was surprised to listen to it and find it… Pleasant Lol! I dont know, it’s not one of my Favorite albums of the year at all — but it’s a nice album that i may end up getting into more as the year progresses.

Danity Kane, “Welcome to the Dollhouse“/Day26, “Day26”

I was definitley wrapped up in the Making the Band series when i was into these two albums. Now that the season has worn off, i realize these two albums aren’t really as great as i thought they were at first. Danity Kane’s is alright , standouts being “Sucka for Love” and “Xtasy”. Most of the album though sounds like a Rihanna/Britney/Pussycat Dolls wannabe-electro-pop-r&b/light sound so the songs may not be Terrible, but end up being pretty forgettable. Day26’s sounds more like a Jagged Edge/Jodeci/112 compilation. I like most of the songs, but again… they are pretty forgettable. I gravitate more towards the uptempos “I’m the Reason” “Im my Bed”. and “Co-Star” is a REALLY great song (vocally) which shld be a single. I give them credit for putting together a pretty solid cd for their first time… but neither of those two albums will even really be remembered at the end of the year.

Usher, “Here I Stand”

So — the album i had the highest expectations for. And yeah, okay… Usher pretty much delivers. He MIGHT have the same problem as Janet though with maybe too many songs. However, i just downloaded it today so it still needs time to truly grow on me. That being said, there are already a number of stand-outs that i see myself looking stupid in the car singing along to. “Whats Your Name” (http://youtube.com/watch?v=yuiImpkZ4k8) with Will.i.am is HOT!!! “Trading Places” (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ovm-VWS0VgI) or “Before I met you” should definitley be the third or fourth single. “This aint sex” “His mistakes” and “Apetite” are other instant standouts. The rest is pretty okay, there’s only one song i really dont like. I will say that Vocally, he definitley is miles ahead of the Timberlakes and Chris Browns and NeYo’s. All in all, after only having the cd for a few hours I really like it though. I’ll definitley buy it on the 27th.

I cant remember right now any other cd’s i may have downloaded, but those are definitley the top ones of the year. I’m eagerly anticipating a few of the upcoming releases though. N.E.R.D. (6/10) is probably the Most anticipated right now, Weezer (6/3), Lil Wayne (6/10), Coldplay (6/17), Ne-Yo (8/5), Nas (7/1), Sean Paul, Busta Rhymes are some of the ones dropping in the summer that i can think of.

so signing off — The Drums, The Drums, The Drums, The Drums…

(The Ting Tings “Great DJ”)

EDIT: I forgot about Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu, “New Amerykah, Part One”

The reason i probably forgot to mention this, is because it’s my biggest let-down of the year so far. I Love Love Erykah, but it took me Years to get into her last album “Worldwide Underground” and i feel like this album will have to have the same fate. I do like a few of the songs already, first single “Honey” and “That Hump” definitely speaks to me and cheers me up. Other songs are pretty good (oh yeah “Hip Hop The Healer” is pretty awesome) but i haven’t listened to that full cd in so long i dont even remember a title. I will say that the “Honey” video is probably my favorite music video i’ve seen in Years. It reminds me of being little and looking through my mom’s/aunts/uncles record collections =)

http://youtube.com/watch?v=_9jpkF1ehD8

July 1, 2008 – Tuesday

N*e*R*D, Coldplay, Weezer, WeezY & The BET Awards – Reviews
Current mood: optimistic
Category: Music

New reviews.

So June is officially over, about 5 hours ago, and I didn’t post any reviews of the new music i’ve gotten this past month. So let’s just go ahead and do that Now!

First of all, the last blog i said that Usher’s “Here I Stand” may grow on me. Well unfortunately it hasn’t. I barely listen to it anymore. It’s such a run of the mill R&B album and for Usher that’s a No-No. So i’m pretty much over Usher in the 08. And did you see his BET Award performance?? He was so tired, he was lipsynching and we hasn’t Hitting his moves. Really disapointing.

Anyhow onto the June reviews.

N*e*R*D,Seeing Sounds

Nerd’s first album was pretty awesome. It dealt with concepts you didn’t really hear, and the mixing of Rock/Alternative/HipHop was genius at the time and really refreshing. Their second album was a more polished album sonically, however it didn’t have as many solid tracks. Seeing Sounds is completely different from both two albums. I have yet to determine what exactly the albums main message is… what i can assume is a message of “DO YOU!” but i could be wrong. All of that aside, it’s a really good album. The production this time is CRAZY! The group still plays with Rock and Alternative and mixing it with pop, but this album also introduces more of an Electronica vibe and some Drum and Bass thrown in the mix. The concepts of the songs are pretty out there, but some are really relateable. All in all, I’d give this the stamp of approval. “Windows” “Spaz” “You know What” and “Sooner or Later” are my favorites (along with the UK only bonus cut “Lazer Gunz”- which is the first song you hear when you log on to my page).

Coldplay,Viva la Vida or Death and all his Friends

Okay here’s the deal. I thought “XY” was an amazing album. However i read somewhere that the critics didn’t agree with me. Now i’m reading really great reviews of This album and I don’t know if i agree. The album is cool. I really really like the song “Lost!” and a few others. However, it’s not really a memorable album thus far for me. I know that i enjoyed a majority of it because most of the album is still on my iPod. But there is nothing like “Talk” or “Square One” on this album. It’s very mellow. Chris sounds good though, and the band does do some awesome musical arrangements. I just wish i could remember more than 4 song titles.

Weezer,Weezer aka The Red Album

“Heart Songs”. That’s the reason to get this CD. It’s an awesome song just about their musical influences growing up. The first time i heard it, it sounded just like a normal love song, with a great track that i instantly loved. When i listened to the lyrics i fell in love with the song even more. Aside from that song, the first half of this album is good. The second half kind of ventures off into terrain that’s a bit less adventurous, more predictable and unoriginal. “Everybody get Dangerous” “Trouble maker” and “Pork and Beans” are the only other real standouts. Not that great. Not that bad.

Lil Wayne,Tha Carter III

So he’s the greatest rapper alive eh??

Well this album isn’t bad. I must admit though that i can’t listen to it all the way through. It’s like he’ll have some nice cuts like “Mr. Carter” “Dr. Carter” “Shoot me Down”, and than have two or three less than thrilling tracks afterwards. A pretty uneven album, that actually sounds like he had been saving tracks for the past two years and just put them on this album. Making it sound like more of a compilation album than an actual album. BUT, i can’t fault him. That’s the way of Hip Hop these days. I wish’d he would have done something like “Hip hop is dead” or “American Gangster” where all the songs have a vibe about them. Maybe in the future. For right now this is a pretty solid Hip Hop album (which pretty much sticks to the Hip Hop album Norm) with a number of filler tracks. By the way i also like “Got Money” “Let the beat build” ofcourse “Lollipop” and “A Milli” and i actually like the one with Babyface “Comfortable”.

Now let’s talk about the BET Awards.

I THINK?? they gave out some awards?? I’m pretty sure. But we all know that the BET Awards (and any other Music award show for that matter) is about the Performances. I already told you all what i thought of tired ass Usher (I really think this was not the right time for him to come back out/ i think he’s dealing with his own personal issues and is just not invested in the music thing right now… i could be wrong). It was funny thought because I’m sure Chris Brown and Ne-Yo were super nervous thinking they couldn’t top him. But they did. Chris Brown did a Slower set which surprised me. He started with “With you” and than into “Take you down”, where Ciara came out and did some nasty/naughty dance moves with Breezy. The only bad thing about his performance was … it was too short! Since about 2006, me and my friend had said that a Chris Brown/Ciara dance off type thing would be the Dopest thing ever. And yes when they got into their danceOff part they Killed. But it just didn’t last long enough.

Ne-Yo, in my opinion, KILLED IT. He’s not the best dancer (and i noticed that on second viewing) but he knew better than to do some difficult ass choreography because he still had to actually sing Live. When he did hit his moves, he Hit them. And i think the best thing, it seemed like he was trying to pull off this “Year of the Gentleman” persona… and being able to hold onto that character while dancing and singing and hitting your marks and working the stage… to a House song… is most likely pretty difficult and he pulled it off. Standing Ovation! I cant wait to hear what his album is gonna be like.

Alicia Keys seemed like she was the highlight of the night to most people i talked to. She basically did her own “Teenage Love Affair” with three backup dancer/singers. Like a girl group right? Than she broke it down and started singing “Weak” and everybody was like WTF. And than SWV came out and finished the song with her, than EnVogue came and sang “Hold On” with her. And than TLC or TC came out and did “Waterfalls”. It was definitley nice to see all these chicks that used to love back in Jr. High again. Nice performance Ms. Keys.

Another person I was REALLY glad to see again was Maxwell. His performance was My personal favorite of the night. He was the third performer in a Al Green Tribute. Jill Scott did her thing with “Still in love”, Anthony Hamilton sounded so much like Mr. Green on “Tired of being alone” but Maxwell killed it with “Simply Beautiful”. And one thing i do have to say about the BET awards, i LOVE when they do the tributes. Because when the actual Tributee is on stage doing their thing, you see in the audience all the different generations of performers from different styles singing along.

Who else performed? Well TPain did a mix of all his “featured on” hits with Rick Ross and FloRida and all the gaggles of rappers that were on that “Im so Hood” remix. TPain came BACK out during Lil Waynes closing performance. These performances were good and all, but not worth writing about. Nothing else was really worth writing about. But i do have to put Keyshia Cole on blast. She sounded terrible. And, okay maybe i’ll rephrase. Her voice in itself wasn’t bad. But she does not know how to use her voice , Live. She really needs to work on that.

But the 08 BET Awards was pretty okay. Better than last year.

July 21, 2008 – Monday

Nas… ” ” better known as “Nigger”
Current mood: melancholy
Category: Music

THE most anticipated album of 2008 did not disapoint.

Nas’ past few albums have been like Textbooks to me. An album that talks in many ways about one issue. So, much like a textbook, i really need to study the material and than come up with an overall feeling for said Textbook. Therefore my final review for this album is still Pending.

I’ll say now that it IS a great album, it did NOT disapoint. And current standouts are “America” “N.I.G.G.E.R.” “Y’all my Niggas” and “Black President”. Every song is great though. Support this man… maaan!

September 15, 2008 – Monday

Janet Live! and Ne-Yo – Reviews
Current mood: breezy
Category: Music

I finally went to a concert!!!! So i missed the major concert i wanted to see this year and that was the Glow in the Dark tour. I also missed Mary J and JayZ, Coldplay, Musiq Soulchild, and Alicia keys. I missed the Killers last year and just barely was able to see Beyonce. So with work sucking at the maximum capacity for the last two weeks, i just needed to let off some steam and get drunk and get loud. So me and my friend Aleta finally decided to go to the Janet Jackson show. A couple of cool things happened though, we didn’t have to pay for parking AND i only bought $40 tickets… but i think the show just wasn’t selling, so people that worked at the arena were running around Giving people seats in the lower sections… so basically i paid $40 for $120 tickets. AWESOME!!! How often does that happen? Never! At least not for me.

The show… yeah i guess it was cool. Lol! No i had fun. I think just the fact that Janet was onstage for 2.5 Hours singing pretty much ALL of her hits. In fact i think she did ALL of her hit singles, and a few album tracks from the new album and some verry verry old songs… and songs that don’t belong in the Oldies but ‘Good’ies category. It was a fun show for the fact that she kept it moving. I’m not gonna get too negative on her, there are a few things that i have small gripes with. They are very minor though, so it didn’t take away from the whole experience.

So i had fun, and it made me kinda miss concerts!! Hopefully 09 will be a better year for me. Kanye GO ON TOUR AGAIN NEXT YEAR PLEASE!!!!

And now my album review.

Ne-Yo “Year of the Gentleman”

When “Closer” came out around April of this year, Ne-yo’s album shot to the top of my most anticipated albums of the year… and I dont even really like dude. The album was supposed to drop in june originally, than it got pushed back to August, and now it’s being released this Tuesday the 16th. In the months it’s taken to actually be released, I did seriously lose a little interest. And the followup single “Miss Independent” is good, but it wasn’t as hot or different as “Closer”.

Anyway the album leaked, and even though it’s not quite what I expected it’s still easily the best album by an R&B Dude to come out this year (Take that Usher!)

The album is really alot more laidback than I expected. In fact I expected a totally different sound from the interviews he was giving talking about the album, that it would be really different, how he’s tired of R&B, how Patrick Stump of FallOutBoy was supposed to collaborate on a track. And when i listened to the album, the first thing i thought was What Happened. It’s a total R&B album, nothing else… “Closer” is the only thing on the album that seperates itself from Ne-Yo’s sound from his previous two albums.

What I’ll give Ne-Yo credit for is his songwriting and the ability to make some catchy hooks. Easily one of the top songs on the album, “Why Does She Stay” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wH8rKj6VYi0 is a good example. It’s just really refreshing to hear lyrics like:

I step outside of myself
To see how much she loves me
And all the things that i should do for her that i just dont…

just dont…
And i realize

She’s so much better than me
Im so unworthy of her

Why does she stay ?

Which is quite a change from the “I cheated on her, now i dont understand why she doesn’t trust me” or the “I’m so much better than your current dude, you need to drop him and get with me” type of songs that come from most R&B Dudes (Take that Usher!)

There’s another really well written song, well there are ALOT actually… but the one i really love is “So you can Cry” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkpLZkUR68M ,

Life is long
There will be pain but life goes on
With everyday a brand new song
But if you rather stay at home
Let me do you a favor

I’ll ask the sun to shine away from you today so you can cry
(if that’s what you want)
I’ll ask the clouds to bring the rain for you today so you can cry .

Nice right!

And than there’s the song that is just WAITING to be used at all the upcoming weddings “Stop this World”. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzSrPjBXQ7w

Bottom line, this 12 track album has Several potential hits… and even if he didn’t go outside of his box as much as i expected (and that was probably more due to his label and those politics than him) he still delivered.

September 28, 2008 – Sunday

Saadiq, The Way I See It – Review
Current mood: annoyed
Category: Music

It must really suck to have your very first solo album be a Masterpeice. Where do you go from there?? Usually down. It happened to Lauryn Hill, and unfortunatley it looks like it’s happened to Raphael Saadiq. 2002’s “Instant Vintage” was easily the most refreshingly soulful album released that year, if not the whole decade. And his just released third solo album shows that even though this man is still obviously a genius, he seems to be having a hard time matching the artistic success of his first outing.

Not to say that “The Way I See It” is a bad album. It’s a step above decent. It’s a throwback to the 60’s and 70’s Motown sound. And the inspirations behind a couple of the songs are painfully obvious. The album definitley stays true to that sound, and the songs end up sounding like they literally could be put on a Motown hit album and fit perfectly. And, that might be a bit of the problem with the album. You’ve got Amy Winehouse, Duffy, and even Solange Knowles (i know right) using the 60’s throwback style but the difference is that they also add contemporary elements to make it something new. Saadiq didn’t add any up to date elements to make the songs pop a little more, but maybe he didn’t want to.

Having said that, the song “Oh Girl” is easily the best song on the album. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0qJ_V66n8Q It’s actually a little more “DooWop” than the rest of the album, the fact that the production is so raw and the lyrical and melody are so simple. Much like “Still Ray” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoyaITkdLA0 from “Instant Vintage”, a simple song all around that makes such a powerful memorable classic. Some other high points on “The way i see it” are “Calling”, which is also a simple slow burner, the first single “Love that girl”, and “Never Give You Up” which features the Legend Stevie Wonder.

Outside of that, it’s a decent album to have on but it’s nothing that i’m running to my iPod to listen to. Though, like i say alot, it might grow on me. His second solo cd “Ray Ray” i seriously only listened to it once when it was released in 2004, and just last year I started to listen and it really grew on me. So maybe in 2011 or something I’ll fully appreciate this album. For right now, it’s Aaiiight! =)

October 5, 2008 – Sunday

TI, Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson, PCD, NKOTB, Jason Mraz, Britney, Killers … Week in Music
Current mood: anxious
Category: Music

It’s dead at work, so time to Blog.

So this week was a bit of an exciting week for music, at least for me. There were two highly anticipated album releases this past Tuesday in the form of T.I.’s 6th album “Paper Trail” and Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson’s self titled debut album. Some news on Beyonce’s upcoming third solo album, and single releases from Pop Queens Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera. Ciara and The Killers also released their first singles from their upcoming Fall releases.

So where to start?

Britney vs Christina. The late 90’s Pop Tarts are back, and practically going head to head this Fall. Ofcourse Christina Aguilera’s album coming November 7th is just a Greatest Hits (“Keeps Gettin’ Better — A Decade of Hits”), and Britney’s “Circus” due November 23rd is a full fledged studio album which is supposed to be her “ComeBack” (even though her last album was released a little over a year ago, but whatever!). However their first singles are being released just a few weeks apart from each other, and oddly enough they sound almost exactly the same. Christina’s “Keeps Getting Better” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsnOdf3_8jc) was debuted officially at the recent MTV VMA’s during an lipsynched, Lady Gaga inspired performance. And just like the lackluster performance, the song is very boring. Coming from Christina Aguilera, this single is a true disapointment. For an artist who has always prided herself on going against the grain of the Pop scene and doing her own thing, this song sounds like every other song on Dance/Pop radio these days. It sounds like Britney Spears (specifically Britney’s “Blackout” album cut “Radar” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3wvPts-Z8w) and the mere fact that the song sounds like Anybody other than Christina warrants a pretty low rating. Britney’s new single “Womanizer” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_bu4N5qacU) isn’t much better, it’s a dance/pop/electronic upbeat song that is very similar to pretty much all of Britney’s post-KFed recordings. It’s a fun, upbeat song though. You can definitley dance to it. And even though I personally Hate the hook on the song, it’s damn catchy and something as repetitive as that is only going to help the song gain popularity.

Beyonce. Ms. Destiny’s Child or Mrs. Jay-Z or Miss Sasha is also planning a Fall release (scheduled for November 18th) with an as yet untitled album. Unlike Britney and Xtina, Beyonce has not released hardly ANY info. She is slated to premiere Two new singles on Tuesday October 7th, and it’s pretty surprising in this Digital Day and Age that neither of these singles have leaked online yet. Not even a snippet has leaked. It’s quite impressive that she was able to withold it from leaking, and a smart move as well. However on different blogs and message boards there is information that has been gathered to keep us Stans happy while we wait. An official statement from Beyonce’s camp has the two song titles as “If I Were a Boy” and “Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)”. The former is being pushed to Pop radio, and is written and produced by Toby Gad who is behind Fergie’s monster hit of last year “Big Girls Dont Cry”. There was a demo of this song released a few weeks ago, it’s sung by the cowriter of the song but it’s allegedly alot different than the final version Beyonce recorded and wrote additional lyrics to. Give it a listen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpWHml42_Rg . The other single is produced by Tricky and written by The-Dream who have basically appeared on every R&B and Pop album released since their massive hit “Umbrella” last year. No other info was given out on this song besides the facts that the song is upbeat, the video is done and the dancing in said video is supposedly “On Point”. Additionally, like i said before there is no album title yet but a few things have been passed around online. The first official report had the album titled “Virtuoso Intellect” which was quickly followed by “Virtuoso Effect”. Than a few weeks ago on one of the boards, someone very trusted that allegedly works really close to Beyonce said the album title would be “sumthin u hear her say all the time”. A few days later, it was reported somewhere that “Empowerment” was the title. All this mystery! I think that’s good, there’s no mystery left with albums these days.

Jennifer Hudson. She stole all the spotlight from Beyonce during the promotions for her Oscar winning role in “Dreamgirls”, but apparently the spotlight might not shine too long on Hudson’s music career. Her self titled debut album came out September 30th to some Very underwhelming reviews from some of her die hard fans. I personally haven’t listened to the album yet so i’m just reporting what i read, which was that the self titled debut is nothing but a hodgepodge of different styles and that it doesn’t work too well. I may just download it this weekend and post another review if i feel it’s worthy. I do know that she needs to release a follow up single, because “Spotlight” the albums first single, died Months ago.

By the way, i did download The Pussycat Dolls second album “Doll Domination” last week. And surprise surprise, it doesn’t totally suck. A Very predictable pop album for sure, but they are a predictable pop group so you can’t expect much else. Only about half of the album is worth listening to. Top songs being “Halo” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Jf9moh09so) “Hate this Part” “Elevator” ‘Happily Never After” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqWL1C2Etik) “Magic” and a song that is really stupid but i just can’t get enough of “Bottle Pop”. Everything else is really Average, not terrible but not memorable at all. And while we are on predictable pop groups, New Kids on the Block delivered a reunion album a few weeks (months?) ago, and aided by their recent VH1 Behind the Music special (and my B urging me to listen to it) I checked out some of the songs. I didn’t like many of the songs, they aren’t bad… but those dudes are out of it. I don’t totally remember New Kids from the 90’s, i wasn’t that into them just maybe two or three songs here and there, but it seems like Jordan and Joey are the only ones who can actually sing and the others just kind of phone in their vocals. Still “Click Click Click” is a really good song, and i can’t get “Twisted” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pScuRQjqRoo) out of my head for the life of me.

Keeping in the vibe of Average albums, I have to talk about Jason Mraz. I think “We Sing.We Dance.We Steal Things” is now his third studio album, and with “Im Yours” being such a great single, i felt a little compelled to listen to the whole thing. The problem, Jason Mraz is obviously a talented guy. He has a great talent for coming up with creative melodies and he seems to have some great musical influences, and the problem is that either he or his label don’t know which influence they want to copy from the most. There are some really awful songs on this album, for instance “Butterfly” which is him obviously trying to be Jamiroquai with terrible results. Honestly there are really only two singles you need to hear, the first single “I’m Yours” and his duet with Colbie Caillat “Lucky”. While you get those online, get “The Remedy” from his first album in 2002. This is the song that made me take a first notice at this guy. I think he has potential to be a huge artist, but unfortunatley this album isn’t really going to take him there.

That finally brings us to T.I., whose 6th album “Paper Trail” dropped the same day as Jennifer Hudsons. And it’s evident that T.I. is going to anihalate her on the charts come Thursday, and you know what… he kind of deserves to. This album is still Typical Hip Hop. Pretty much the same concepts, the same producers, the same type of songs. However T.I. is one of the dudes who actually has talent so him alone sets this album apart from Every Other Hip Hop album. Funny that it sounds so much like his other albums though, at certain points during listening to the album I thought “T.I.’s the Jagged Edge of Hip Hop”, meaning those R&B dudes tend to release the exact same album year after year. However i love Jagged Edge, and yeah i love T.I., so it ends up working in his case. Best songs include ofcourse “Swagga Like Us” with Jayz Kanye and Weezy, “Ready for Whatever”, “My Life Your Entertainment” with Usher, “Live your Life” with Rihanna, “I’m Illy”, “Porno Star”. All the rest of it is good though, and ofcourse this will probably end up growing on me in the coming months, there is already enough to get me to want to actually listen to the album more than once.

Oh, last but not least… The Killers have a new single out. It’s called “Human” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvVOoCKjonY) and it’s produced by Stuart Price who i f’ing LOVE. He’s one of those Euro Electronic artists, he has a bunch of electronic groups that he heads and he also produces and remixes under various aliases. He actually contributed a hit remix to “Mr Brightside” under the alias Jacques Lu Cont. Anyway i love that guy, and i love the Killers so i obviously love the song. I really can’t wait for the album “Day and Age” which is supposed to drop November 11th. They also have a show in San Francisco on October 21st. Who Wants to Go With Me???

Additonally, there have been some shake ups with other Fall releases…

Keri Hilson’s “In this world” has been moved from October 7th to November 4th. And TPain’s “Thr33 Ringz” moves from September 30th to November 11th.

October 14, 2008 – Tuesday

New Videos
Current mood: chipper
Category: Music

Beyonce’s back!! Nobody should be surprised that I’m excited, but i think people will be surprised how awesome her two new videos are. Ofcourse “If I were a boy” as a single and video completely Shit on “Single Ladies”, but they are both good efforts.

If I were a Boy is a cinematic, movie styled music video with a bit of a Power struggle/role reversal plot going on. Its just really well done, and the video fits the song perfectly. The twist ending seals the deal and makes it that much more powerful. And there’s all kinds of Hotness in the video as well.

Single ladies is really simple. Its just her and two girls dancing on a plain set. The lighting and the cinematography on this video Amaze me and are really the stars in the video. The choreography is simple, but has some interesting moves in there and really sexy. And beyonce’s legs… OMY! The song is still kind of boring to me though.

http://www.mtv.com/player/embed/..

  • Beyoncé
  • New Music
http://www.mtv.com/player/embed/..

  • Beyoncé
  • New Music

So Common released “Unviersal mind control” earlier in the summer, so i’m not sure why he’s just now getting around to releasing a video for the single. Frankly he should have chosen a new single to make a video to. But anyhow, the video is kinda cool… i like the Pharrell robot. but Common is looking a little long in the tooth these days, so it kinda feels like it’s not … hmm… Age Appropriate. This should have been Lupe’s video.

http://www.mtv.com/player/embed/..

  • Common
  • New Music

Ciara also premiered a new video this month, and while the video is insanely futurstic and original. The song in my opinion doesn’t match. And i really like the song. But the sound is very urban, very “driving down Mission with the bass bumping” and the video needed something a little more Futuristic, Electronic sounding. Ciara is still the best dancer out there right now, and this video at least proves that.

Last, and pretty much LEAST (lol) is Britney Spears’ “Womanizer”. Okay i have to admit the video is kinda cute. It reminds me ALOT of one of her other classic videos, “Toxic”, it almost follows the concept exactly. Britney looks really good though, i mean not only is her body back on point, but even her face. It’s not all puffy, and she actually has life in her eyes. All in all this video is pretty good I can’t lie. It’s entertaining, never boring, and visually appealing, and it did the job a video is sometimes supposed to do and it makes the song a little more bearable. It’s just a little predictable for Britney, it seems like she does the same stuff over and over. But i think i’ve already made that complaint.

http://www.mtv.com/player/embed/..

  • Britney Spears
  • New Music
October 20, 2008 – Monday

P!nk, T-Pain, John Legend, Ray Lamontagne, and Fall Out Boy … Week in Music
Current mood: irritated
Category: Music

I love my iPod, i mean i would probably literally bust out in tears if anything bad were ever to happen to it. (That being said, i really need a new one) I’m starting to love my iTunes just as much because it really is one of the only places I check out regularly that keeps me up to date on whats new. I hate the radio, and there are hardly ever any music videos on music video channels, I watch stuff on youtube but that’s really only when i’m specifically searching for an artist or if somebody on a message board links the video. Other than that, I would be a lot more out of the loop if it weren’t for iTunes. For instance, this Tuesday I go on there to check out “What’s New” “What’s Hot” and notice some dude named Ray Lamontagne is sitting at the top of the iTune album chart. I clicked on some of the samples from his album, and the voice made me download it. The album “Gossip In the Grain” is not necessarily the type of album i would normally listen to, it’s very folk/blues/rock and very mellow love songs. However a great voice will make you pay attention to things you normally wouldn’t, and this guy has a really awesome unique voice. It’s perfectly suited for rock with it’s raspiness, but it also has a deep soul to it that is somewhat close to Temptations’ David Ruffin or Sam Cooke. Still, for me there aren’t many stand outs on the album, it’s a nice alternative option for me when i’m bored with Overproduced Pop tracks (and believe it or not, that Does happen from time to time).

I also found two new Fall Out Boy singles. Actually I downloaded “I Dont Care” a few weeks ago, and it’s a cool song, kind of typical Fall Out Boy song. This week they released a follow up in the form of “What a Catch, Donnie” and this song is really … pretty… amazing. And speaking of Voices, I definitley think Patrick Stump has the Best Male Voice out there today, at least in the commercial mainstream Pop world. He just knows How to sing and How to perfectly compliment the song with his voice and vice versa, and he nails this song which is somewhat of a ballad for them. (The best part of the song actually is towards the end, they incorporate some of their older hits into the closing melody… Nice!)

Staying in the Rock for the Pop Charts frame of mind, Pink‘s 5th album “Funhouse” will be released in stores October 28th and although i got it online already, it would actually be worth the purchase. I’ve always loved Pink, and even though her last four albums have all been more Rocked Out Pop than the R&B of her first album, each album always takes a slightly different direction. The 4th album “I’m Not Dead”, for instance, was way more of a Fun Popped up Rock album while the one before that “Try This” (which btw was criminally underrated, check out “Save My Life” and “Waiting for Love”) was alot darker deeper and moodier than anything she released before. Unfortunatley, or maybe Fortunatley for some, “Funhouse” is more of a mash up of both of those albums. There are an awful lot of slower songs, surprising given the albums title. Those slower songs do happen to be the best off the album, the second single “Sober”, the albums closer “Glitter in the Air” and the should-be single “I Dont Believe You”. All of these tracks show off her awesome voice, which apparently has grown quite a bit in the last 2 years. These slower tracks also showcase some great songwriting which is rare in the current Pop scene. I must say that this album was Obviously inspired by her divorce and she talks about it Alot in a huge number of the songs on this album. There are a few upbeats on this album, nothing as fun as “U + Ur Hand” or “Cuz I Can” or even this albums first single “So What”. “It’s your fault” “Ave Mary A” and “Bad Influence” are the best of the more uptempo half of the album. Overall, Pink always delivers even if she didn’t really do anything all that Risky with this album.

Let’s get back to how great iTunes is for a second. I notice they’ve been doing this thing for certain artists where they release a different song every week or so as a “Countdown” to the album release. They did it for T.I. leading up to “Paper Trail”‘s release, and it seems like they are doing it for both T-Pain and John Legend who have albums releasing within the month. Now John Legend’s last album “Once again” was one of my favorites, and the First single he dropped on iTunes, “Green Light”, is one of the best of this year. Featuring Andre 3000, it’s an uptempo club banger booty/bass track which is a departure for Legend’s slowed down R&B style he normally goes for. And the music video fits perfectly. He followed that up with a ballad “If You’re Out There”, and yeah it’s one of those Inspirational anthems and i’m not a big fan of those but the lyrics are on point. I just never feel the need to want to hear it. I downloaded the other two singles he’s dropped “No Other Love” featuring Estelle and “Everybody Knows” — but haven’t gotten around to listening to them.

T-Pain, Teddy Pain, Nappy Booi-o-e!, Teddy Pinned-her-ass-Down, whatever you wanna call him. I know ALOT of people say they are sick of him and his vocoder, but i’ve never gotten tired of him. In fact every single thing he touches i seem to like… if only for his verse or hook on the song. He has a talent for melodies and hooks, and the singles released so far from his upcoming 3rd album “Thr33 Ringz” are all proof of his obvious hit making skills. By now i think everybody’s heard “Can’t Believe it” featuring Lil Wayne, which is some what of a slow jam/love song, took me a minute to get into this song but it’s definitley solid. “Silver and Gold” is actually Not available on iTunes and Won’t make the final cut of the album, but check it out… it’s just a fun Dranking song in the vein of “Bartender” and “Buy U a drank”. I guess there was some “controversy” with Kirk Franklin in regards to this song, apparently Franklin also has a Gospel song titled “Silver and Gold” and he was Upset that T-Pain used the same title to sing about liquor (“Drinkin both kindsa Patron’s/ I done mixed up Silver and Gold” as opposed to “I’d rather have Jesus/ than Silver and Gold”). I’m curious if this is the reason the song isn’t included on the albums tracklist, if so that’s weak, i mean it’s only a TITLE!! Not the first time two artists have shared the same song title and the songs have been drastically different.

Anyhow, he released “Chopped ‘N Skrewed” featuring Ludacris last week and this week “Freeze” featuring Chris Brown. Now I do like both of these songs, but these might be evidence that T-Pain may just be dipping in the hitmaking. They just sound very similar to his other songs… “Chopped ‘N Skrewed” actually sounds like a Chopped and Screwed version of “Silver and Gold” but Ludacris does contribute a nice verse that’s worth checking out. And “Freeze” kind of reminds me of that one song he did with Lil Mama “Shawty get Loose”, it’s a nice dance song and it has a cool hook but i don’t really see it going anywhere.

And lastly, I heard probably the 2nd Worst Song of 2008. Here is actually my rankings for the Worst songs this year…

1. Vanessa Hudgens, Sneakernight — I dont even want to waste much time talking about this CRAP, I’ll just say I’ve learned to Mute the commercials when I’m watching Nickelodeon (this song is played on her EckoRed commercial that they seem to play every 10 seconds on Nick!)

2. Pleasure P, Did you Wrong — Heard this song today and WOW it’s Terrible! Dude can’t sing (AT ALL), the concept is played the Fk out, and the lyrics are just plain stupid and lazy, example:

I ain’t tryna waste your time
And, I ain’t tryna waste my time
There ain’t no need to waste no time
’cause we done put in too much time
I ain’t tryna waste your time
I ain’t tryna waste my time
Ain’t no need to waste no time
’cause we done put in too much time

TERRIBLE!!

3. Ashanti, Good Good — So at least she put out a decent music video behind this Mess. However this is Ashanti stooping to the lowest common denominator… Come up with a stupid repetitive hook and not even worry about anything else and i’ll get a hit. Wrong! I think this song may have finally put that nail in the coffin that is her Career.

Alright, until next week…

November 2, 2008 – Sunday

John Legend “Evolver” – Review
Current mood: energetic
Category: Music

I wish I wasn’t so lazy. I intended to include my review of John Legend‘s new album “Evolver” in my updated Week in Music blog last Monday. I was lazy, so I didn’t. And I’ve been putting off for a few days (I had a test this week so studying kind of took up my time), all the while knowing I was going to write a Glowing review of the album because it is really that good.

Firstly, I’ll just say that I haven’t been a Huge fan of Legend. I didn’t really like his debut album “Get Lifted” all that much, and wasn’t really even excited when his follow up was released in 2006. Eventually (thanks to Starbucks) I bought the second album “Once Again” and it became one of my top plays of 2007. And a pattern I can sense with John Legend that I hope he continues is that he keeps all the songs on one album in the same Vibe and they seem to all be connected. Much like some of the greats have done in the past. “Evolver” isn’t a Legendary or even Amazing album, but because everything flows so well into each other I think this is probably one of the best ALBUMS of the year. And by ALBUM i mean something that was put together to be appreciated on the whole and not just a Compilation type album (Janet, Usher). The Vibe… To me, being that I’m so damn old (LoL) is very early 90’s. Makes sense, the pop charts have been dominated by 80’s inspired music the past 5 years… the natural transition would be to bite off music of the 90’s. Except on “Evolver” there are subtle hints of the 90’s under pretty contemporary production, like the PM Dawn inspired harmony tacked on the end of “Everybody knows”, the SWV sample on “It’s Over”, and even the lyrical content of “Quickly” is very reminiscent of A/C Phil Collins. Again, just subtle hints so the music on the whole does sound really Fresh and original. And there are some classic songs on here, the music industry is so unpredictable these days so i’m not sure if “Everybody Knows” or “This Time” will get the success on Pop radio that it deserves. They are both Classic ballads that rival Richard Marx, Bryan Adams and Michael Jackson in the 90’s, with very relatable lyrics and slick production. The whole album is solid, there’s not one song I hate or would even skip past (okay maybe “If You’re Out There” which is more along the lines of a Gloria Estefan power ballad for the Olympics or in this case a Democratic Campaign — GO OBAMA!!) but some definite stand outs for me are “I Love To, Love” (reminds me of “Show Me” from the last album… but sweeter) “Cross the Line” (Love the production on this) and “It’s Over” (Kanye kinda kills it, again!).

All in all, it’s definitley John Legend’s Best, but on top of that it hopefully showcases what we can expect from him in the future, solid ALBUMS and not just singles.

November 11, 2008 – Tuesday

Beyoncé “I Am…” – Review
Current mood: okay
Category: Music
No matter what anybody says, Beyoncé is definitley the closest thing we’ve seen to a Living Legend in a long time. And it’s not even because she’s the Best vocalist, or the best dancer. It’s not because her songs are groundbreaking or even original or innovative. It’s basically because she’s so well rounded a artist/performer/celebrity. She combines her talents with her image and she’s just one of the best total packages out there.
That being said, in anyone’s music career the Third album is (in my opinion) the MOST important album, Especially for someone as huge as she is. And it shows on “I Am…”, her third album in stores on November 18th, that Beyoncé understood the importance and took her time. The album is split into two discs, and the first “I Am… Beyoncé” is Amazing. It’s obvious she was going for a more mainstream Pop vibe with this side, and even though it’s a pretty calculated move the songs are instant classics. First single “If I were a Boy” is a perfect taste of what you’ll get on the album. That song is almost a bit of a Rock/Pop anthem which fits well into the Top40 Sound of today, but obviously has inspiration from an 80’s Adult Contemporary sound, this song reminds me of the 80’s pop duo Heart, while “Smash into You” and “Satellites” (two amazingly great songs) have a bit of a Genesis/U2 vibe to them while still staying contemporary. The excellent production value and the writing on this half of the album almost overshadow Beyoncé, but only Almost. Like on the second single “Halo“, an excellent peice of lyricism (Thanks to Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic and writer and producer of Leona Lewis‘ “Bleeding Love”) and a great track, but Ms. B’s vocals are so strong she makes you feel the power in the words…
I swore I’d never fall again
but this don’t even feel like falling
gravity can’t begin
to pull me back to the ground again.
And now that brings us to the second disc, one “I Am… Sasha Fierce”. This is supposed to be the upbeat “sassy” side of Beyoncé. It’s really her Stage persona, but if we’re being honest Sasha Fierce peaked on the last album “B’Day” (in the studio that is, Sasha Fierce still KILLS Everybody on stage!!) . The vocals were so strong and the lyrics were so attitude filled, unlike alot of the stuff on this rather disapointing side of this new album. I guess there is some sass on this side, just laid over some pretty boring tracks. “Ego” is supposed to be released as a single and it’s a nice track with a nice hook but the lyrics need some work. (Although i do tolerate most of the song to hear her cuss Finally…
Ego so big
you must admit
I got every reason to feel
like I’m That Bitch.
Yeah B, you are)
However it seems like she got real lazy on this half of the disc. The creative vocal workouts are gone, the interesting lyrics are gone, even the tracks on here are underwhelming. They almost feel like she didn’t really put much thought or effort into alot of these songs. I mean listen to the first Urban single “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on it)” without seeing the awesome video it’s just “Get Me Bodied” part two. And i won’t even get into “Diva”, her female answer to “A Milli” (i’ma a Diva i’ma i’ma a Diva. Diva is the female version of a hustla) which could have been pretty good but the song definitley lacks something. Alot actually.
There are some really great standouts on this half though. “Hello” is a sweet upbeat love song about Jay. Very addictive hook and just a great total production, vocals included. And “Radio” is a bit of Change for her style, it’s a Europop club track and she brings a real Urban vocal style to it. This album seems to be intended to cross her over into a true International star and this would do huge in other countries. As well as “Sweet Dreams”, which most of us Stans were playing all year when we thought it was titled “Beautiful Nitemare”. Another club offering that will do big on the other side of the pond.
All in all, Beyoncé went to work. At least on reforming her image as a International Pop Star with huge classic anthems. However she took so many steps forward on the first half of this album, and so many steps back on the bottom half. Anyhow, we’ll see you on Tour Ms. Sasha.
On a side note, Jim Jonsin is doing his thing this year. I’m glad he got a chance to show his diversity on this and former DC3er Michelle Williams’ albums. For me Jim Jonsin is THE producer to watch for next year. And one of my favorite producers Mr. Bangladesh who has been floating under the radar for Years (but finally has some major exposure this year because of “A Milli”) also came to work. Although “Diva” does sound almost exactly like “A Milli” (and also Kelis‘ “Aww Shit!!“) his production of “Video Phone” is f’ing awesome
November 30, 2008 – Sunday

Kanye, Killers, TPain & Britney Spears
Current mood: happy
Category: Music
I am So Late.
Being Unemployed now, I wanted to really start trying to do weekly blogs. Maybe bi-weekly. And I meant to post this Blog about two weeks ago… but have just been really lazy. That being said, I want to get this out for Monday… because Monday is going to be my Official New Blog date.
So now that that’s all cleared up, here we go…

Firstly, the album I’ve been Dying to write about… Yeezy’s new one. Now the song “Amazing” is the best way to describe both Kanye Wests 4th album just released November 25th “808s and Heartbreak“, and Kanye west himself.

I’m a monster
I’m a maven
I know this world is changin’

Never gave in
Never gave up
I’m the only thing I’m afraid of

No matter what
You’ll never take that from me
My reign is as far as your eyes can see

It’s amazin’
So amazin’

Speaking about the artist first, he’s definitely drives in his own lane and always has. He has always gone slightly left from everybody else in both Hip Hop and just Music in general, especially on his Second album “Late registration”, but still making his stuff mainstream enough for it not to be ignored on the charts. With this album though, he seems to be driving on an entirely different Highway than everybody else. And some of the creative calls he made on this album truly (imo) present him as a genuine Artists, the likes of which we haven’t seen probably in a decade. For instance, the longer than 3 minute instrumental looping at the end of album opener “Say You Will” track, or the minimal lyrics on the also Amazing “Street Lights”. The tracks in themselves also take music to new grounds. He seems to have cultivated a Perfect blend of real late 90’s Electronica, Hip Hop and Mainstream Pop classics, and normally trying to hybrid too many styles ends up a mess and this works seamlessly. Because he’s a genius. One complaint about the album is that he seems to be talking about the same thing on every song. However that complaint also sort of proves what a great artist he is, this album was obviously motivated by his emotions at the time and a way to vent to get over the Heartbreak. And not only lyrically, but vocally (and yes he does sing most of the songs… but not in the way where he’s trying to become the next John Legend. More of just a melodic way to get his lyrics across) you can feel the pain, like when he screams “I won’t EVER Love again… Never again” on the albums BEST track “Coldest Winter” you really really feel it. This is truly my album of the Year. Kanye has Yet to disapoint.

However, Britney disapoints me all the time. She had a trio of live televised performances within the past few days… and let’s just say she’s no longer the Dynamic Live Performer fans Claimed her to be. Which is truly disapointing because before those performances I did get to listen to her new (now 6th album) “Circus” being released Tuesday and I don’t hate it. Her last album “Blackout” released in the midst of her “Crazy Bitch” phase, was Fun but very One-Note and Britney was barely there. Her vocals were totally vocoded and there was just no life behind the lyrics. “Circus” fortunately does bring her voice more to the forefront, and while there are an awful lot of “Blackout”-like Dance cuts, on the whole is alot more diverse and somewhat similar to her Best album 2002’s “In the Zone”. The standout cut on this album is “Unusual You” which may just be the best song she’s ever recorded. It really is a beautiful song, lyrically production wise and her vocals do really set the song off. The next really great track is the Addicting Max Martin production “If U Seek Amy”, which suceeds in being that Guilty Pleasure song that actually eclipses Katy Perry’s trio of addictive singles put out this year. And it’s such a “naughty” little hook that’s so much fun to sing a long to…

All of the girls
and All of the boys
are begging to
If U Seek Amy
(get it? If U Seek Amy… F U C K ME)

… The album actually shows a little progression in Britney’s stifled career and is actually a pretty good (stay clear of “Kill the Lights” and “My Baby” – but Do check out “Out from Under”) listen. She just needs to work round the clock on delivering an Awesome performance one of these days or this album is gonna tank Hard!

I was also surprised that T-Pain‘s third album “Thr33 Ringz” didn’t completely suck. It’s really just a Fun, Funny album. You dont really expect anything of much substance from a dude who could deliver such a hilarious lyric like…

One, two, three, four
Get the hell up out my door
Five, six, seven, eight
I don’t need your sex, I’ll masturbate

… but a line like that is really Fun to sing and he has alot of stuff like that on here. I think what he was trying to accomplish was pulling off a great Album instead of just another vehicle for a few singles to be plucked from. He does try to get diverse on us, with the truly Hardcore Hip Hop (Karaoke with Dj Khaled) and some straight up R&B (Reality Show with Musiq Soulchild and Raheem Devaughn). He even tries (and fails in my opinion) to do a bit of a Message song with Mary J Blige, Diddy and Akon in the form of “Change”. He doesn’t totally fail with this album, none of the songs are Unbearable, but he’s showing that he’s a bit more than just the Auto Tune dude. All that being said, this album basically comes down to 5 great songs. The singles “Cant believe it” with Lil Wayne, “Chopped and Skrewed” with Ludacris and three great album cuts “Blowing up” with Ciara “It aint me” with an amazing verse from T.I. and “Therapy” with Kanye. I think you can get away with just those 5.

And while we were speaking, kind of, about Disapointments I have to say The Killers have (at this moment) disapointed me. Their third proper album “Day and Age” was released the same day as Kanye. And maybe being so blown away by that album set my expectations higher for the Killers. I mean, they are my favourite Rock/Alternative group for the past few years and add that they hooked up with one of my Favourite EuroDance producers Stuart Price I expected to listen to what I assumed would be the Greatest album of the Year. However, when i first listened to it, i felt like i was listening to some weird 80’s compilation. I heard a bit of Paul Simon, Huey Lewis, Hall and Oates and even Madonna in there. I’ve only listened to the album once since than, and it did sound better the second time around so maybe i should just save the Definitive review for a few weeks and see where how much, if at all, it has grown on me. “Neon Tiger” and “Goodnight, Travel Well” are pretty Great songs though as are the two singles “Spaceman” and “Human”.

December 3, 2008 – Wednesday

Grammy Predictions
Current mood: optimistic
Category: Music
The Grammy nominations will be announced Tonight. They are making a big Television special out of the nominees, seems pretty lame to me, but the Grammy nominations actually do excite me. This year should be really surprising. I’ve actually been listening to older music this year so I’ve been somewhat out of the loop of today’s music (besides it generally sucks so bad can you blame me). I mean I’ve JUST discovered a couple of acts (keep reading) that had their buzz brewing since the Beginning of the year. So obviously if i made some predictions I’d probably be all wrong, but I do have some Hopes for nominees … artists and songs that i think actually Deserve nominations. So here we go.

I had this feeling in the summer when M.I.A.‘s “Paper Planes” song became so Huge in the US, that they might actually put this up for Record of the Year. And not only because the song is amazing, also because M.I.A. has been getting a Huge critical reception since her 2005 debut album “Arular” and she has yet to be nominated for a Grammy or any other American award for that matter. The Grammy committee loves to Look like they are young, fresh, and worldly and that’s M.I.A. and that’s Paper Planes. On top of that, she actually was set to Retire this year (which she has since retracted thanks to this song). She’s not a new artist but she’s a critical and media favorite who attained that commercial success this year and Grammy’s tend to award that. I wouldn’t be surprised if she got a couple of nominations. They’ll either put her in Urban/Alternative Performace or Dance recording. They might actually put her up for Hip Hop Performance Female which would be Smart because she would have virtually NO competition.

I’m just gonna say Rihanna needs to win Dance recording for “Disturbia“. However, the dance category is probably going to be filled up with MGMT, Lady Gaga, Ting Tings, Madonna, Janet. Plus they generally tend to have a bunch of respected House DJ’s and Electro heads in this category as opposed to pop stars. They’ll probably put her up for R&B Song and R&B Vocal Female for “Take a Bow“.

Jason Mraz should be nominated and Win Pop Vocal, Male for “I’m Yours“. And I’m guessing Sara Bareilles (“Love Song“) and Colbie Callait (“Bubbly“) will be in the running for Pop Vocal Female. However the obvious Winner in that category is going to be Leona Lewis who I predict will be a Grammy favorite this year. I see her getting this award for “Bleeding Love“. And she’ll definitley be in the running for New Artist which i was sure she would win a few months ago but she’s going to have to fend off other Critical favorites Adele, Vampire Weekend, MGMT, Ray Lamontagne and Estelle. By the way, put money on Adele for “Chasing Pavement” in that Pop Vocal Female category.

I really can’t call who I think will be the lead nominees or even the Album of the Year category. Last year, (when the Grammy telecast turned into “The Amy Winehouse Show” – still mad at that.) the nominees almost mirrored the Billboard top Albums and Singles, giving the impression that Grammy voters only voted for stuff that they heard on Top 40 Radio, and this year might just be the same. Having said that, Coldplay would probably get the most nods. Their album “Viva La Vida” got some of the best reviews this year and sold through the roof. Plus the Grammy’s already LOVE Coldplay, this could be the year when they truly become U2. I’d definitley put money on them for Album of the Year and since they are favorites one of their songs (don’t ask me which) should be in Record and Song of the Year as well. Also if we’re looking at chart dominance you might even see Lil Wayne up for Album of the Year for “Tha Carter III”, if not he’s definitley going to sweep practically All of the Hip Hop categories (Rap Album, Rap Song, Rap Solo, Rap Solo Male, Rap Performance Duo or Group, Rap/Sung Collab, ) and I don’t see why he wouldn’t Win all of those awards to be honest.
If we’re looking critically, you might see Vampire Weekend, Portishead, The Black Keys, The Racounters, Ray Lamontagne, Robyn and MGMT in the mix in the big 4 categories. I would also count in Raphael Saadiq, Beck, The-Dream, Ne-Yo, Gnarls Barkley, Panic at the Disco, Mary J. Blige, Keyshia Cole, and even Katy Perry for a nod or two.

So, let’s see how well I do.

December 9, 2008 – Tuesday

Grammy Noms, Brandy, Common, Akon … Week in Music
Current mood: impatient
Category: Music
Yeah Yeah Yeah, it’s Tuesday. I was supposed to post this yesterday… but whatever, nobody reads my blog. So just one day late isn’t going to kill… Anybody.

Now let’s first talk about how Awesome I am, and how good I was at predicting the Grammy nominations. Lil Wayne actually came out the leader in nominations with 8, and I really can’t say I’m surprised. His album sold through the roof this year, and Grammy’s just couldn’t ignore him. What’s even more awesome, is he was nominated for every single thing I predicted last week:

Also if we’re looking at chart dominance you might even see Lil Wayne
up for Album of the Year for “Tha Carter III”, if not he’s definitley
going to sweep practically All of the Hip Hop categories (Rap Album,
Rap Song, Rap Solo, Rap Solo Male, Rap Performance Duo or Group,
Rap/Sung Collab, ) and I don’t see why he wouldn’t Win all of those
awards to be honest.

7 of his nominations came straight from the Rap categories (Rap Album, Rap Solo for “A Milli”, Rap Performance Duo or Group twice for “Mr. Carter” and “Swagga Like Us”, Rap/Sung Collab for “Got Money” and Rap Song twice for “Lollipop” and “Swagga Like Us”) his eighth nomination came for Album of the Year. So I did pretty good there. Coldplay trailed Weezy with 7 nominations, and as you can see I was pretty spot on with those predictions as well:

Coldplay would probably get the
most nods. Their album “Viva La Vida” got some of the best reviews this
year and sold through the roof. Plus the Grammy’s already LOVE
Coldplay, this could be the year when they truly become U2. I’d
definitley put money on them for Album of the Year and since they are
favorites one of their songs (don’t ask me which) should be in Record
and Song of the Year as well.

They are up for Album of the Year, as well as Record and Song of the Year plus Pop Performance Duo or Groupfor “Viva la Vida”, Rock Song and Rock Performance Duo or Group for “Violet Hill”, and Rock Album.
Outside of the lead nominees I definitley called a few other nominations… “Paper Planes” by M.I.A. for Record of the Year. Adele and Sara Bareilles for Pop Vocal Female (additionally Adele surprised me and got Record of the Year and Song of the Year for her song). Jason Mraz competing in Pop Vocal Male for “I’m Yours” (also nominated for Song of the Year). Rihanna‘s “Disturbia” up for Dance Recording, and Leona Lewis for Pop Vocal Female for “Bleeding Love” (also nominated for Record of the Year).
Which leads us to my biggest surprises or Snubs of the year. The most glaring snub was Leona Lewis in the New Artist category. I mean seriously… The Jonas Brothers and Jazmine Sullivan over her? The-Dream not getting ANY nominations for his superior “Love/Hate” album and singles (while J. Holiday – whose only hit “Bed” was written by The-Dream – is up for Contemporary R&B Album of the Year? Did anybody even listen to that album?). And i’m not entirely surprised by the snubs of Janet Jackson and Mariah Carey, but given this years nominees they should have found themselves in at least two or three categories (especially Janet, who should have been up for Dance Recording with “Rock With You” or “Feedback”). I was really surprised that MGMT or Vampire Weekend weren’t mentioned at all.
And I guess I should talk about the welcome surprises. Ne-Yo , Album of the Year? Again, I felt like The-Dream and even Raphael Saadiq‘s albums were better but I was proud to see Ne-Yo up there. Keyshia Cole stormed through the R&B categories with “Heaven Sent” and I really believe she should win, that was one of the Few TRUE R&B Singles out this year. I was really happy to see Robyn up for Dance/Electronic Album as well as Beck and Gnarls Barkley competing for Alternative Album. Also Very happy to see the producer of both of those albums (as well as the Snubbed Black Keys) Danger Mouse up for Producer of the Year (He should win it).
In a couple of weeks I’ll post my predictions for Winners and see how I do. The awards will be telecast sometime in early February (really close to my Birthday… hint hint)

On to some new releases that might (but probably won’t) be up for Next Years Grammy nominations. Released last Tuesday was Akon‘s now third album “Freedom” and it’s set to debut in the top 5 albums this week. And if you’re a fan of the albums first single “Right Now (Na Na Na)” than you’ll most likely dig this album on the whole. Akon is a pretty talented producer and writer (I mean if you can put a song together that’s good enough to not be totally irritated by his voice than he’s doing Something right) but this album isn’t anything revoultionary. It’s actually a bit dated in certain respects, if this album came out last year I would have liked it alot better. It just relies a little too much on the electro-pop sound that’s been inundating the radio for the past two years, although songs like “Keep You Much Longer” and “Beautiful”, which features Colby O’Donis and Kardinal Offishall, are a little above average and do fit into that sound really well. Akon does try to diversify this album a bit, which makes the album not a total dud. The albums follow up singles “I’m So Paid” and “Holla Holla” are standouts, as are “Against the Grain” (featuring Ray Lavender — Nice Voice) and “Be With You“. The rest, well I have to admit that I kept thinking “when is this song going to be Over” a few times. For Akon though this is his most solid album to date. And it’s alot better than I expected.

Meanwhile, Brandy‘s 5th album “Human” hits stores today, and it’s a little weaker than I expected. I have always given Brandy praise for getting better with each album. However “Human” isn’t better than her previous (damn near Masterpeice) “Afrodisiac”, while that album was alot more mature and real, this album seems to cater to a Younger Poppier crowd with some pretty generic lyrics and concepts. I mean her answer to the World’s problems is to “Warm it Up (With Love)”, she talks about how her man is the “Definition of Love”, and the title track she sings “I’m only Human, Forgive me… I’m only Human, Love me”. None of those songs are awful, but given all that Brandy has been through since the release of the last album, you’d think she’d sing something a little more personal and heartfelt instead of Any-Artist-Pop-Songs. There are some moments of genius on this album though and they mostly come in the form of ballads along the line of her past hits “Have You Ever” and “He Is”. The albums second single “Long Distance” (which also suffers from very generic lyrics “You know right now I can’t be home, but I’m coming home soon”) just sounds like an instant Classic, and even better is “True” which wins on all levels (Lyrics, Production, Vocals) and even that song gets eclipsed by the “Acapella” of “Something’s Missing” which is a very fresh and original arrangement. Vocally, Brandy has always been very underrated and her voice has just grown leaps and bounds with every album. And on top of the growth, she’s a very creative vocalist and that is one of the things that is clearly displayed on this album. I would recommend the album though, even though it’s pretty Generic, there is alot on here that most people will relate to and again Brandy came to work vocally on this album. However, if you go to the store to buy this album and you don’t have “Afrodisiac” or the 3rd album “Full Moon”, do yourself a favor and pick both of them up.

Finally, also being released today, is Common‘s “Universal Mind Control”. The album was initially supposed to be released this summer under the title “Invincible Summer”. Than news came that Common only intended to do an EP for that title and put together a full album due in November. Knowing that, I can understand some of the inconsistency on this album. Even with that one complaint, this really is one of the better albums this year. Firstly, I have to say that I’m loving the fact that Pharrell is back, he really impressed me earlier this year with the stuff he did for Madonna’s album and now on Common’s album (which he produced 7 of the 10 tracks) he gives you a taste of why we loved the Neptunes in the first place (the club banger “Sex 4 Suga”, the laid back old school “Announcement”) and a taste of where he’s headed (the albums best track “What A World” featuring Chester French). A producer by the name of Mr DJ takes the reigns for the remaining 3 tracks and from the sounds of it (“Make My Day” featuring Cee-Lo, and “Everywhere” featuring Martina Topley-Bird which are two of the more superior tracks) he might be here to stay. Aside from the production, Common does bring something to this album (which yeah, it could have been just as good if it was all instrumental). Common commented on the album earlier this year and said that it was supposed to be a bit of a throwback dance Hip Hop album and he does bring very old school 80’s Rap flows very nicely to the very futuristic tracks, which are best displayed on the aforementioned “Make my Day”, which has him telling a Story in the same vein as Slick Rick and “What a World”. I’d definitley recommend this album, it’s not the classic that his last album “Finding Forever” was (which if you don’t have it, Buy it… Excellent Kanye and Will.I.Am productions), but at least it’s different and in this late stage of Common’s career it’s good to see he’s getting a little more Fearless with his music.

December 25, 2008 – Thursday

Best of 2008
Current mood: drunk
Category: Music

Merry Christmas to all my adoring fans.

Right!

Anyhow I have my lists of best albums and singles of 2008, and I meant to write a blurb about each album/song. However, it’s Christmas and I’m at my Grandma’s house and I guess I should enjoy the Holiday instead of blogging unnecessarily. I just thought I should post something… it’s been about three weeks since my DSL at home was shut off and I’ve missed some entries… so here is the most important entry of the year.

So I’ll just list my favorites now, and maybe one day at the library I’ll fill in my critiques about each ranking.

Top 15 Albums.

1. Modern Guilt, Beck

2. Paper Trail, T.I.

3. Robyn, Robyn

4. 808’s and Heartbreak, Kanye West

5. The Odd Couple, The Odd Couple

6. E=MC2, Mariah Carey

7. Oracular Spectacular, MGMT

8. Tha Carter III, Lil Wayne

9. Evolver, John Legend

10. I Am… Sasha Fierce, Beyonce

11. Year of the Gentleman, Ne-Yo

12. Universal Mind Control, Common

13. Not 4 Sale, Kardinal Offishall

14. Untitled, Nas

15. Shine, Estelle

Top 25 Singles.

1. Disturbia, Rihanna

2. Paper Planes, M.I.A.

3. Gamma Ray, Beck

4. Feedback, Janet Jackson

5. A Milli, Lil Wayne

6. Closer, Ne-Yo

7. I Luv Your Girl, The-Dream

8. With Every Heartbeat, Robyn

9. I’m Yours, Jason Mraz

10. Touch my Body, Mariah Carey

11. Great DJ, The Ting Tings

12. Let It Rock, Kevin Rudolf featuring Lil Wayne

13. American Boy, Estelle featuring Kanye West

14. Heaven Sent, Keyshia Cole

15. Heart Songs, Weezer

16. The Youth, MGMT

17. If I Were a Boy, Beyonce

18. Swagga Like Us, T.I. featuring Jay Z, Kanye West & Lil Wayne

19. No Air, Jordin Sparks with Chris Brown

20. Dangerous, Kardinal Offishall featuring Akon

21. Love Lockdown, Kanye West

22. Don’t Touch Me (Throw Da Water On Em), Busta Rhymes

23. I Don’t Care, Fall Out Boy

24. Everyone Nose (All The Girls Standing In The Line For The Bathroom) [Remix], N.E.R.D. featuring Kanye West, Clipse & Lupe Fiasco

25. We Made It, Busta Rhymes with Linkin Park.

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