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Peter Luscombe - 1/30/2010
This is just one of those albums that I really can't explain the true beauty of, it is just impossibly complex in its simplicity.
Let me explain that oxymoron. The individual performances on this album are outstanding. Keenan's vocals are soothing, heartfelt, visceral, incredible, sometimes all of the above at the same time. Danny Carey is, hands down, one of the most jaw-droppingly brilliant technical drummers of all time, and at the risk of sounding like a drumming nerd, how on earth his mind tracks all the polyrhythms and time signatures... it makes me sigh in awe. As for the melodies created from both guitars; I never knew that distortion could sound so beautiful. The lyrics and musical structure combine in an over-the-top display of pretentiousness, the song Schism has over 100 time-signature changes and the title track contains many references to Fibonacci numbers.
And yet, for all of this you would have thought that, when put together, it would sound over-developed, convoluted and a bit of a mess. But no, it all blends perfectly and every time I am left mesmerised, still unable to explain it all...
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Peter Luscombe - 1/30/2010
Basically the gimmicks of this band are that they have: a. two drummers and are: b. fronted by a woman. Now while the second of these may sound sexist, it is not intended to be for you see such a proposition is unusual for this genre, (which according to my local HMV is rock/pop - yeah right!!), especially one with such a hardcore punk style of shouting. As for the two drummers, they really need to flaunt it in order to push forward; together they are really tight and can weave some interesting rhythms, however most of the time they only serve the purpose of being a double track. A solid effort from a band who will I hope will be one of the big names in the next decade.
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Galen Cromar - 1/30/2010
Vampire's Weekend follow-up to their debut, Contra is an album that continues to improve on subsequent listens.
Track highlights for me include Horchata, Holiday, White Sky, and Taxi Cab.
African-style rhythms mix freely with clever use of synthesizers, clean guitars and unexpected but uplifting falsetto.
Comparisons will no doubt be drawn to Graceland-era Paul Simon, among others.
Put quite simply, after the kind of winter we've had, one needs an album like this to put sunshine firmly back in your mind, a smile on your lips, and rhythm in your bones.
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Oscar Huckle - 1/24/2010
After the thumbs up twice for Kaiser Chiefs, 'Employment' and 'Yours Truly, Angry Mob', Kaiser Chiefs release their third album, 'Off With Their Heads'. Will it be third time lucky?
The album is good once again displaying sheer greatness however, there are a few songs which are rubbish. First song is, 'Spanish Metal', a really good opener, feel-good song, I think it's really great. Next song, is hit single, funky, 'Never Miss A Beat', this is the best song on the album for me with brilliant lyrics. i.e. "What do you want for tea? I want crisps" Magnificent!!!! Thirdly, there is, 'Like It Too Much' with the title,' Off With Their Heads' incorporated into it, the song is okay, but drags on a little with the same beat in it over and over again. In fact, it does get a bit repetitive. Next is, 'You want History'. Again, it is okay, but a bit repetitive like, 'Like it too much'. After that, there is the explosive, 'Can't say what I mean.' This is one of the better songs on the album because it is short and sweet unlike some other songs on the album like, 'Like It Too Much' or, 'You want History. Another one of the better songs on this album is second world wide single, 'Good days, Bad days', it's just sheer brilliancy, the lyrics, the tune: in other words, it just is breathtaking. Next is the disappointment, 'Tomato In The Rain', slow and very painful to listen to, the Lyrics are bad, it's like it has been written by a 2 year old. Song 8 is, 'Half the Truth'. This song is very good, it even has a rap by Sway incorporated into it. Next is duet, 'Always Happens Like That' with Lily Allen. Another brilliant romp of excitement to listen to, penultimately, is, 'Addicted To Drugs'. Another indie rock and roll by the Kaiser Chiefs, this is another one of the best songs on the album, love it. Unfortunately, the last song, 'Remember you're a girl' is terrible, no beat, not catchy at all.
As I said before, the album is good, but it is not a patch on the first two albums. The first two albums were magnificent. Magnificent is better than good obviously. So, Kaiser Chiefs, come back when you have recorded an album which is fresh and catchy. Unfortunately, this album didn't meet brilliant heights like the first two. I hope this album was a little warm up in preparation for the next one.
Thanks for reading.
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Sean Anderson - 1/22/2010
So it's here after only eighteen months. And, in rather unfitting words, it's ... fantastic! It is neither no better nor no worse, in my opinion, than Other People's Lives, as it's a completely different album: unique sounds and unique lyrics. It does seem that Working Man's Café is much more personally introspective in comparison to Ray's first studio solo release, with most of the lyrics in first-person.
Vietnam Cowboys is probably the best way possible to begin the album. And those opening chords are probably the best way possible to begin the track! The addictive rhythm, topped with thoughtful lyrics, conceal aspects such as disgust, irony and sarcasm regarding the western world's influence and involvement in other countries and the obsessive trend of globalisation. This song sums it all up perfectly. In fact, it does its job so well that it deserves a longer track on the album; the original live take, circulating on the Jane Street concert bootleg, was almost six minutes long. The CD, including two bonus tracks, still has enough room for more - or longer - songs.
I love what seem to be snide lyrics on You're Asking Me. He conveys his frustration at someone (or people in general?) nagging him on trivial matters that he supposedly ought to know because he's been there and done that. 'If you're asking me, don't take my advice.' Musically, he's tut-tutting and moaning that he'll tell us due to our persistent asking, but he shouldn't be held responsible for what goes on in our lives. Coupled with a charming melody and a sharp twist in the tale at the point of the agitated outburst ('If that's what you really want, then GET A LIFE, GET A LIFE!') this song is fascinating and affecting, certainly a stand-out on the album. One of my favourites, anyhow.
I'm fond of how Ray almost contradicts his previous track in Working Man's Café, where Ray proves that he actually has plenty to say. Painfully, he reminisces about the former character of the old country he once knew and asks us to consider if we have lost this in the modern world of retail outlets, international brands and technological wonders. 'It's really good to see us come so far, but haven't we forgotten who we are?' As a fifteen-year-old, this may be the only world I've ever known, but Davies still manages to provoke thoughts of yesteryear. Overall, the title track is a wistful and beautifully performed song that provides the basis of the album's theme.
Morphine Song, superficially, is a light-hearted song, the comedy of the album. 'Yeah, all fall down, someone help me off o' the ground.' When this track first previewed on MySpace, from the laughable, high-pitched opening lyrics, I thought, Here we go!, chuckling to myself. In fact, on a deeper listening level, this 'funny' song is not what it seems. Underneath, the upbeat tune and trivial lyrics lies a grim story of an intensive care unit, its despairing patients and the insensitive staff that work on it. Davies has created this song cleverly: the portrayed woozy, hazy insignificance of the events symbolise the dimming effect of morphine perfectly. On a deeper level, this song could be a reflection on society itself - perhaps we are failing to notice that we are losing our character because the world around us that provides us with our desires is really sedating and pacifying our mind to an extent where real matters become trivial to us. I know what you're thinking, but don't knock me, because it's the sort of thing one might think about lying in hospital!
In a Moment is another of my favourites from Working Man's Café. I love that bit of jazz on this track. It's certainly a distinctive sound and I've never heard Ray do something with this much soul before. In a Moment, I think, has the potential to brighten up a bad day. The lyrics set off at a slow and laidback pace that sees a man taking a walk having a good old think about his life. At times, they suggest times of hardship - 'something apocalyptic', 'momentary loss of faith', 'any second, love can turn to hate', 'fleetingly it went from wrong to right, in my hesitation I lost you' - but things eventually look up for our man. He tempts our contemplation with the line, 'Do we see the moon or the sunlight?' - does this ring a bell? (Glass half-full or half-empty?) - and reassures us, finally, with, 'In a moment, hope will find a way.' I shouldn't think myself going too far when I label this a breathtaking track.
Peace in Our Time, in juxtaposition with In a Moment, shows us a man whose every last ounce of hope and optimism has been wringed out by his dissatisfied partner. Ray's growl reflects the anger of the song almost frighteningly: 'The living room's a wreck from all the rows!' The following line is almost inaudible with the exploding anger. Now the lid is off the bottle, our relieved man regrets that he has let any of this happen. He has realised that the key to a happy life is reconciliation and, 'Don't want to be a Buddhist, but I need some peace and harmony,' has to be one of my favourite Ray Davies lines ever. From the first time I heard it, it has brought a smile to my face. I'm convinced that the narrator of this track is the same as from Creatures of Little Faith from the first album. That track was his turn to do wrong and beg for change and, in Peace in Our Time, his partner has ripped him to shreds, prompting him to review his life and start afresh. Arguably, it could be said that Ray, as he has done on several other occasions, is using a small-scale timeline and story to project it onto a larger scale: without doing a great deal of 'Bible-bashing', I think that this is a message to the world that war only destroys and achieves nothing: 'All we deserve is some peace in our time, I don't need no sympathy, just some peace of mind ... put it back together; otherwise, we're gonna fall apart ... unconditional love's the best ...'
A further firm favourite of mine is No One Listen. It was great when I heard it performed live in Nottingham and the studio version sounds just as great. The quick, hard-hitting opening notes - that marvellous bam-bam-bam-bam - tell me that, straightaway, this song's going to have lots of energy and oomph.
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Anna Whitwood - 1/20/2010
I was pleasantly surprised with how much I've enjoyed listening to her first album. Being a fan of Girls Aloud I wasn't sure whether Cheryl was capable of making it as a soloist but she's certainly proved why she's able to achieve no. 1 chart success.
My favourite track is 3 Words featuring Will from the Black Eyed Peas. I love how up beat the track is, although an unusual sound, it has a great contrast in its tempo between voice and beat, making it unique.
The rest of the album carries the same theme throughout that being pop / RnB, so if this is the type of music you enjoy and your a Girls Aloud fan then this is certainly worth buying. It's so great to see her achieving success after all her hard work.
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Anna Whitwood - 1/20/2010
Alicia Keys fourth album is interestingly diverse. The album pleasantly surprised me as it doesn't sound like your standard RnB CD, it's very emotional in parts which no doubt portrays her personal life.
My favourite track on the album is number ten 'Put it in a Love Song' as Alicia collaborates with Beyonce, it's undoubtedly the closest Alicia Keys has become to producing a track that could be played on the club scene.
Overall I would definitely say this is some of her more enjoyable music and it's definitely worthy of its chart success.
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Josh Frankpitt - 1/16/2010
Every song is an inspiration, he's just such a legend!! A MUST have!
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matthew shearer - 1/13/2010
What an album? I've heard live sets from Phil Kieran a few times now and listening to this album brings it all right back. Amazing ground breaking electronic/techno from probably the best dance music producer to come from Ireland. Good work
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Natasha Cutts - 1/3/2010
I think this is the best of the Now CDs yet, it has all the hits on and many more! Definitely an album to put on your iPod/iPhone it has everything, I love it =]
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Blazej Zyglarski - 1/2/2010
This album is the most refreshing album of the last few years. It connects masterpiece of Nigel Kennedy with locality of Polish Kroke band. Sound of this music plays inside your soul, dances with your heart and amazes your head.
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Nicole Beebee - 12/26/2009
A beautiful album in which Rhydian, accompanied with a male voice choir and other guests, puts his mark on various classic hits. His version of the Mike and Mechanics song "Living Years" moved me to tears. A great easy listening and very enjoyable offering. Highly recommended.
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Oscar - 12/26/2009
Mika has finally returned after his great first album, 'Life in Cartoon Motion'. Mika has now released his 2nd album, 'The Boy who Knew Too Much'. The album is amazing, better than the first one.
The album opens with the controversial, 'We are Golden'. I like this song. It should really become a national anthem for England soon because of the way the song is sung. 8/10
Then, there's, 'Blame it on the Girls' which in my opinion should become a single in England. Come on, it was already a hit single in America and Japan!!!! 10/10
After that, there's 'Rain' a great song, the brother of 'Relax (Take it Easy)'. A brilliant pop song with a great chorus. 10/10
Then, the album goes slightly downhill with, 'Dr John'. I'm not over keen on it. Dr John is a marmite song. You either love it or hate it. 5/10
But, the beautiful, 'I see you' storms in. This, or 'Touches You' are probably the best songs on the album. 10/10
Then, 'Blue Eyes' kicks in, feels like you're in Jamaica or somewhere really tropical and exotic. 10/10
After that, we hear 'Good Gone Girl' again marmite song, but in my case, I think it's good. 9/10
But, 'Touches You' comes in. A great song. I really enjoy this song, I can't stop singing it in my mind. 10/10
Unfortunately, 'By the Time' is in the album. Personally, I can't stand it. Mika really ruined it. A shame. Had a lot of potential. 2/10
'One Foot Boy'. What a song. Could have been extended for a while longer, though because it is that good. 10/10
After that, we hear, 'Toy Boy'. Quite good, only lacks in the background vocals. 8/10.
Finally, 'Pick Up off the Floor' comes in to the album. Good song, a bit slow though. 9/10.
This album is phenomenal and deserves to be listened by all. Thank you for reading.
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Donna Jones - 12/7/2009
Omg watched this on itv 'One Night Only' then got the cd, it's brilliant his voice and motown tracks - woo hoo!
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Anthony - 12/3/2009
Cliff seems to have been around since time and with these hits you can see why. Re-united with the Shadows and sounding as good as ever, anyone who grew up in the 60s will love this album.
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Bob Angel - 12/2/2009
Great selection of music, the ultimate companion to the film, great for all good music lovers. with Lykke Li's 'Possibility' standing out for being hauntingly beautiful, the album is a must have.
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Peter Luscombe - 11/30/2009
There is so much going on here it's impossible to start with just one track. I have to start with the outstanding musicianship: the combination of Brent Hinds raucous wails and Troy Sanders effective utilisation of clean and harsh vocals works perfectly - no complaints here. Guitarists Kellihers and Hinds constantly produce truly awesome riffs and once these two start shredding away at their strings; with their sweet harmonies interweaving, it creates a fantastic metal wall which is always apparent. Sanders' bass slots nicely into the mix; adding another layer underneath the distorted guitars. However I have to commend Brann Dailor's drumming - sensational work once again. After ringing his drums round the neck in Blood Mountain, he shows his diversity with a much slower style; really grasping the feel with high complexity. There is still some out-and-out metal on this album, such as Divinations with its swirling guitars and high-velocity drums. However with definite Floydian influences such as organ synths and mellotrons, and lyrics concerning astral travels, wormholes and Tsars, Mastodon have taken a progressive approach - and the epic final track 'The Last Baron' with length 13 minutes, is the outstanding achievement of Mastodon's progression. Long may it continue, but they'll struggle to top this album of mammoth proportions.
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miss m i dixon - 11/23/2009
Strange but true, the Miike Snow debut album was recorded in the 400 year old home of King Gustaf III's mistress. From such historic surroundings a very cool, fresh album has been born!
The opening track 'Animal' sets the mood for the rest of the album. Energetic, fun and infectious.
The tracks give off sparks in the style of bands such as Passion Pit and Yes Giantess, encouraging you to nod your head and sing along out loud!
Definately a stocking filler for indie pop fans and without a doubt my album of the year!
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Gary Dicks - 11/20/2009
After hearing them play live at a couple of random festivals last year, I was itching to get my hands on some recorded stuff. I kept checking but it was always "coming soon", so, after a while, I tired of my search.
But then the release of 'Sigh No More' was announced.
I was excited and I bought it on the day of release, hoping not to be disappointed by the recordings letting down their scintillating live performances.
I was not disappointed. It is an elegant mix of hard-hitting melancholy acoustic music with a tinge of "hillbilly" rock. This is largely due to the instrument choice and, in particular, the use of the old banjo.
Though it is far from over done and the style never tires or bores.
This is an excellent set of alternative pop songs with a twist.
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Melanie Cheetham - 11/15/2009
This quirky pastoral rock band from the 70s find new interesting paths. Tracks which make you sentimental, make you go to another world, singalong or just rock. Lyrics as diverse as English immigrants wanting to return, a soldier thinking about his sweetheart at home or a hard childhood. Hard to believe this band are nearing 60s but want to make you see them live and find the sound is just as immaculate. One long track The day the world stop turning gives Pink Floyd a run for their money and play this song better live than PF.