You can always count on Gaga to deliver a visual feast and she doesn't disappoint with the video for her new single, 'Applause'. Taken from her upcoming ARTPOP album, the song carries many of Gaga's usual trademarks; it's a self conscious celebration of pop culture, commercialism, and fandom. The video is a fast moving montage of abstract poses, remote pop culture references, plus a good dollop of oh-so-fabulous Gaga choreography. it's a visual spectacle directed by renowned Dutch fashion photography duo Inez and Vinoodh It's great;she's like a 21st century musical version of Andy Warhol. Say what you will about Lady Gags, but no one right now is doing it quite like her- while most artists are concerned with portraying "bleak, gritty, realness" in an effort to appear genuine Gaga is giving us pop for pop's sake and it's refreshing and exciting! I love this.
British singer Bluey Robinson puts his own spin on Justin Timberlake's most recent offering, 'Take Back The Night'. The London singer, whose new EP is due out later this year, is on top form as he performs this acoustic rendition of the track. Showing off his awesome Michael Jackson-esque vocals, and taking full advantage of the song's retro vibe, Robinson switches up his version with a snip of the Luther Vandross classic, 'Never Too Much'. Hear what you think, here...
One of UK music's most exciting newcomers, Elli Ingram has dropped the video for her latest single, 'Mad Love'. The song is taken from her debut EP, Sober and tells a tale of obsessive love, and infatuation. The video sees Ingram playing a repressed housewife with a dark side. And in keeping with the EPs artwork, the visual has an overall retro feel from the chintzy china teasets, to the brilliant white Ford Fiesta which apparently belongs to Ingram's love interest in the video. A case of fancy wheels for a fancy man? See for yourselves...
JT gets his Fred Astaire on in the video for 'Take Back The Night'. The retro- disco flavoured track is the first single to be taken from part two of his 20/20 Experience album. The video sees JT in a city street setting, throwing a number of slick shapes, with trendy friends, and a cute kid in tow. There are also a selection of "in the club" shots, as well as footage of his performance at New York's Yankee Stadium too. Mr Timberlake sure knows how to do a feel-good song really quite well. Check it out here...
Keen to keep momentum up, Mancunian singer, Daley is back with his next single 'Broken'. The song starts out sounding like an atmospheric pop ballad, then evolves into a more Breakbeat inspired vibe, with Daley's emotive vocals squeezing out a catchy melody. This song is addictive; yet another solid offering from this talented artist. Have a listen here...
Following the success of his hit song, 'Blackout', Wretch 32 returns with 'Doing OK'. The uplifting mid-tempo features Wretch's trademark laid back flow, alongside smooth vocals from Jacob Banks. The accompanying video is tells story of 'hope restored' against a stark, but welcoming African backdrop; and the little girl is just adorable. The visual fits perfectly with the song; the positive, uplifting beat, and message make 'Doing OK' ideal music for the summer time. Check it out.
Elli Ingram is the latest female UK star to hit the scene. Having caught the attention of many a music loving YouTuber with her reworked version of Kendrick Lamar’s “Poetic Justice”, the Brighton singer/songwriter has continued to impress audiences with her particular brand of mellow jazz infused soul music. This has prompted critics to compare Ingram to some of the UK’s finest modern female vocalists such as Amy Winehouse, and Adele. Her debut EP, Sober, is an impressive six- track compilation of laid back songs, injected with acute youthful wisdom, and edgy personality.
There’s a real focus on emotional experience throughout this EP. Many of the songs detail the struggle to deal with conflicting emotions, and bittersweet moments. It manages to be introspective and personal, without becoming too heavy, or overly self indulgent. Featuring production from London producers, Felix Joseph, and Rudi Redz, Sober comprises a broad mix of musical elements such as Jazz, Pop, Blues, and R&B. These sounds provide an ideal backdrop for the engaging, quirky lilt of Ingram’s voice, which fluctuates between the light, breezy tone of Lily Allen, and the delicate emotive drawl of Sia. Although, musically this EP is steeped in tradition, there is something about Sober that just feels so unmistakeably like now.
The chilled vibe of the title track, “Sober” lulls you into a false sense of calm. Its misty, muted beats, coupled with the soft, rhythm of Ingram’s voice, and the elegant horn section make it sonically deceptive. Lyrically, “Sober” is about being anything but. The song looks at alcoholism, and the often mentally and physically addictive nature of a self destructive lifestyle.
“Then I lose my soul to the poison that I’m on, but I can’t let it go to waste, and I love the way it tastes”
Conceptually, Sober looks at the idea of trying to maintain a balance between indulgence, and restraint. The musical flourishes are used sparingly; they are brief and tempered with simple lyrics and laid back vocals. Even The EP’s striking artwork alludes to the theme of moderation versus excess: A straight-faced Ingram sits, sporting a flush of white-pink hair, and clutching a bottle of whiskey, while surrounded by all the trappings of a chintzy, 60s-style afternoon tea. It acts as a visual representation of the internal conflict brought about by the desire for sobriety and intoxication simultaneously.
“Fun” is a great example of this. One of the standout tracks on the EP; it’s a light-hearted tale of good times. Ingram’s syrupy voice slides over the simple piano- led melody, and soaring strings, which give this track a real sense of scale, and whimsy. In terms of mood and subject matter, “Fun” is like the flipside to “Sober”: where the latter is filled with a sense of murky anguish and guilt, about getting drunk, “Fun” details an altogether more positive experience. The two songs display opposing attitudes towards similar circumstances. But Ingram never allows herself to get entirely carried away in one direction, or another- nothing is all good, or all bad. Even with the frivolous freedom of “Fun” the good times are tempered with sobering thoughts of consequence. That is what gives this song its flighty, yet grounding feel; it’s a gorgeous tune, definitely one you’ll be pressing the skip-back button for.
“Took the walk of shame back home, with no make-up [...] And I know that it’s bad for my throat [...] I was so wasted champagne and rosé, the sun high when we got home, we were so faded [...] We were just having fun. We were dancing in the rain, so free, no shame. I want to feel that way again, so bring the bottles down and we can take the town again”
Elli Ingram is an artist who shows, music’s ability to evolve and adapt. Perhaps not in the most flamboyant or obvious way, Sober includes subtle elements of so many different styles. There’s the 90s R&B flavour of “Mad Love”, and the Neo soul influence on “Elliot”. Her cover of Kendrick Lamar’s “Poetic Justice” is what brought her to the attention of so many. She takes a song that is fast becoming a modern hip hip classic and, (to use a coveted TV talent show catchphrase) makes it her own. It just sounds hot, fresh, and deliberate. It’s a re-work that’s more than worthy of the copious accolades it has received.
Sober is a strong debut. It’s a cohesive culmination of well produced tracks, which are instantly relatable. With these songs, Ingram tells the kinds of stories that a lot of people want to hear, and she manages to strike the perfect balance between personal and accessible while doing so. She has hints of Drake or The Weeknd’s introspective perspective; the catch-you-off-guard, lyrical bite of Ed Sheeran; and this all set to richly textured, Sade-esque vibes. What Elli Ingram has to offer is fresh out of the kitchen stuff. It’ll be exciting to hear what’s to come from this rising UK talent.
So here's the video for the third official single to be taken off Justin Timberlake's latest album, The 20/20 Experience. "Tunnel Vision" features signature sounds from production virtuoso, Timberland, and actually sounds a little like his track for 50 Cent, "Ayo Technology"- which features also JT, funnily enough.
No one does an edgy love song quite like Justin Timberlake, and "Tunnel Vision" is a prime example. The accompanying video is an intense, smoky series of close ups, and slick dance flourishes. Warning, the visual contains copious amounts of, I guess 'arty' nudity- perhaps to to cover the fact that the song is the tiniest bit (can't believe I'm going to say this, and I still love you forever and ever, Mr Timberlake) underwhelming. It's a great driving song, it's just not that interesting, that's all. Anyway see/hear what you think...
Fresh from the success of her debut EP, The Tree, singer/songwriter Ego Ella May has decided to treat her fans to some brand new music. The London songstress brings us her version of Shanks and Bigfoot's dance classic,"Sweet Like Chocolate". Ego Ella May has completely reworked the track, and turned it into a choice slice of slippy, trippy, euphoric soul. Listen below.
It's been a minute or two since we heard any new stuff from Manchester born singer Daley. His debut mixtape Those Who Wait is an absolute stunner, which well and truly caught the attention of the UK's underground scene and earned him a solid fanbase. His last officially released track was "Remember Me" featuring Jessie J, which came out in late 2012.
Since then he has been away in the US working hard at it rubbing shoulders with the likes of Maxwell, Miguel and Pharrell Williams. And now the talent new voice has returned with new song "Songs That Remind Me Of You (#STRMOY)". The song is produced by Stereotypes. And Daley's vocals just keep getting better and better. Fans await a new album due out at some point in 2013. Check out the track and Will Reid directed visuals below.
The video for India Arie's latest track, "Cocoa Butter" is finally here. Her fans waited patiently for new music from the Colorado songstress, and her so aptly named SoulBirds will not be disappointed. "Cocoa Butter" is a solid cut of smooth, neo soul, and the video is just as slick as the the song... And the butter! The track is the first single to be taken from her new album, Songversation, which is due out later this year.
It's been a minute but here's a very special Live Gem courtesy of London poet, George The Poet. Extremely talented, eloquent, and just smart, He shares the same management as the team behind some UK's most exciting new talent like soul singer, Jacob Banks and producer, Wizzy Wow. Having appeared on BBC Radio 1Xtra, George is rapidly putting spoken word on the map as a fresh and exciting form of artistic expression- and audiences are really connecting to what he has to say. It's little wonder he was booked to perform on the legendary show Later... with Jools Holland. Check out this piece of lyrical awesomeness right here- this is "YOLO".
Since the release of The John Doe EP, in 2012, Josh Osho has been busy re-grouping and working on new material. After parting ways with his record company, Island Records late last year, he gave an insightful, and candid interview to AmaruDonTV about the whole experience, and the business of music, as a whole. Now the south London singer/songwriter has returned with"Freewheel" taken from his debut album, L.I.F.E. It's a guitar driven, feel good track with a video that cleverly combines animation, and live action. Check it out.
Singer/songwriter JP Cooper has been doing the rounds on the UK’s live event scene. Armed with a guitar and
a killer set of vocal chords, His particular blend of gospel inspired,
soulful-folk music is proving popular with urban audiences. Having already
played two sold out headline shows this year, the Manchester-born musician
returns with another amazing show. Cooper will play London’s iconic Tabernacle
on Thursday 23rd May 2013 with support from fellow
rising stars, Jake Isaac, Lumi HD, and Marie Dahlstrom.
JP
Cooper, is a name you’ll be hearing a lot more in the future, I'm forever blogging about him, and for fans of
acoustic, soulful music this is an opportunity not to be missed. Check out this
performance of Rihanna's hit "Stay", which he did exclusively for Reload Sessions.
Back in 2010 Daniel Merriweather performed a small set for Billboard.com. He did songs from his critcally acclaimed 2009 debut album Love&War. The tone of Merriweather's voice is just instantly engaging- you want to listen, and once you have, you want to hear more. I love singers who sing with passion to the point where notes aren't always perfect, and voices sometimes crack: passion over polish works, not in every case, but here it works for Daniel Merriweather, Check him out singing "Red".
The UK just keeps raising the game in the talent stakes. Since Ed Sheeran's metoric rise to fame- the UK has witnessed a marriage between
folky, acoustic sounds, with urban, experience. Over the past two years there have been a spate of young musicians picking
up their guitars, not to sing about sunshine and strawberry fields, but
rather to spin tales about their hardknock lives- and it's really kinda cool.
J appiah is the latest artist to catch my attention. The young east Londoner is steadily bringing his music to the fore; his particular blend of soul, folk, R&B, and blues- with added musical flavours inspired his Ghanaian heritage is proving to be very popular on the underground circuit. His latest track "I Aint Rich Yet" describes his quest to become, well, rich, and presumably successful, and respected in his chosen field. I'm guessing he means rich in mind, as well as money. Anyway, it's a really charming, and catchy track. Peep the video below.
Fancy spending a beautiful sunny afternoon listening to
music by some of the UK’s hottest new talents?If so, then Acoustic Afternoon
will be right up your street. The brainchild of online PR, and blogger, Que, Acoustic Afternoon is an event,
which showcases live music from some of the UK’s most exciting emerging artists
in an intimate, unplugged setting. The action takes place on the roof at
Boxpark in Shoreditch. Past performers include, Jamilah Hassan, Whitney
Williams, and J. Appiah.
The Bank Holiday edition of this show will feature
performances from Sylvia Stone and the
Pandas, ALXA, Future Kicks, Tom Bem, and Aleisha Lee
(A.L). Proceedings will be hosted by Rinse
FM’s Yinka with music by DejaVu FM’s DJ Dlux.
Admission is free (yes, FREE), so with your extra change, you
can grab a bite to eat from the all new Cottons
Rum Shack who specialise in providing the very best Caribbean cuisine. There’s
nothing not to love about this event, so if you can, get down there, and start your summer
right!
Acoustic Afternoon: 27th May 2013 (Bank Holiday
Monday)
Mark Asari makes his solo debut with the mixtape, Mark My
Words. The London singer, formerly of R&B group Encore offers a selection
of solid soulful cuts featuring appearances from some of the UK’s freshest
emerging artists and producers.The
8-track collection takes a look at the idea of personal aspirations, ranging
from superficial desires, to a more deeply rooted pursuit of one's dreams. Musically,
the mixtape has classic R&B flavour; there are obvious nods to the popular
R&B sounds of the 80s and 90s.
The Wizzy Wow
produced, “Clockwork” is a smooth track with a dense, murky basslineperfect for the club, or the car, (or
indeed, the car-ride to the club).The song is a depiction of the relentless
pursuit of money, fame, and all the material trappings of success. It features
sound vocals from Asari, and an appearance from up-and-coming south London
rapper Yungen. With its pretty- girls-and- fast -cars lyrics, “Clockwork” revisits the
R&B sounds of the late 90s and early 2000s made famous by artists like 112 and Joe. The song introduces the mixtape’s overall US flavour.
While tracks like
“Clockwork” focus on the material rewards of success, other songs on Mark
My Words touch upon the complicated web of emotions brought about by the
reality of striving to succeed. There is the triumphant, disposition of “Winner”, but also the acute despair of
“Circles”. And on the song, “She Said”, Asari looks at the
difficulty of chasing dreams without the full support of loved ones. The track stands
out as one that’s musically different from the others on the mixtape. The
stripped down, guitar driven melody and simple lyrics are instantly engaging,
and Asari’s poignant delivery makes “She Said” a particularly refreshing
addition.
Of course, no R&B album worth its salt would be complete
without an outstanding slow jam. Thankfully, Asari does not disappoint with the
immaculate, “Fire”. He once again
demonstrates his first-rate vocal talents on this sultry track, which features
production from budding, London-based producer, Jay Weathers; plus the soaring, ad-libs from Wiley’s protégé, Ms D.
All these elements come together to make “Fire” a brilliantly executed track;
it’s a superbly slick, slow jam, with a brooding street edge.
The track, “Never Had
Your Love” is another highlight of Mark My Words. Co-written and produced
by multitalented south Londoner, Slic
Vic, the 80s flavour of this song is just irresistible. Everything, from
the lyrical style to the use of the synths, and the keys give this song its
gorgeous 80s polish. It almost instantly makes you think of Jheri curls, hi-top
fade haircuts, and Alexander O’Neal.
Asari’s voice lends itself so amazingly
well to the summery, soulful vibe of the song. “Never Had Your Love” is a joy to listen to; It’s
a song with such understated charm, that it might take one or two listens to
fully realise the retro genius of the track.
Mark My Words is a compilation of very listenable songs. The
title is a clever play on words, which can be interpreted in two ways: one
describes the fact that the self-penned mixtape is Mark Asari’s experiences in
his own words; the other, is gentle instruction to listen attentively- to pay
attention- to mark the words i.e. music. In terms of style, this mixtape is
pays homage to R&B of old; It successfully blends elements from the 80s,
90s, and beyond. With this mixtape Asari offers today’s lovers of classic
R&B a rare treat: accessible songs, quality production, and velvety smooth
vocals. Mark My Words is a solid debut collection from this rising
talent.
