Kids In Glass Houses - Animals

August 28, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Ever since this music video first came out, I've been dying to review it, but time passed and I kind of forgot about it. But now it is finally on my blog.

Kids In Glass Houses are a five piece band consisting of Aled Phillips, Iain Mahanty, Philip Jenkins, Joel Fisher and Andrew Shay. I saw them live in 2008 when they were a support act for Paramore. Back then I had no idea who they were, and it wasn't until after that tour they soon became well known. This song along with the follow-up singles and their album was much more heavier than I was used to from this band, and it kind of makes sense why they didn't chart very well as it is far from "Give Me What I Want" and "Undercover Lover" and "Matter At All". However their new single "Drive" sounds promising, and their new album, 'Peace', out on 30th September, sounds like it could be their best album yet. You can preorder the album, plus grab many exclusives here: http://www.pledgemusic.com/artists/kidsinglasshouses

"Animals" was written by Jason Perry & Kids In Glass Houses. The song has grown on me since I first heard it, and eventually their entire album 'In Gold Blood' has become catchy, and I actually really enjoy listening to it, however I still think it isn't as good as 'Dirt' and 'Smart Casual'. The song failed to chart here in the UK, and I thought it was a sure sign of this band disappearing, but their Christmas single "Secret Santa", managed to chart at 87. So they still have a massive fan base, and I'm sure this new album will bring their best charting position, hopefully.

This music video was filmed in Birmingham, UK. I remember because they offered their fans on facebook to be in the video, I would've applied, but I went on holiday on the day of filming, but knowing my luck they wouldn't have accepted me anyway.

The video is good, I like the use of UV paint, reminding me of The Black Eyed Peas "I Gotta A Feeling". It is a little on the dark side, which is not what we were used to seeing from this band.

The performance piece has vibes and energy and the people they are performing to are clearly enjoying it.

I also like the entrance and the way they enter, as well as when they put the UV paint on.

The priest and the worshippers are a little on the weird side, I don't see the point of it, just that they are showing it, and it doesn't even link in with the song that much. It's kind of scary in it's own way, this was the direction of this album, a darker and hauntingly rock sound. And I never became a fan of their new direction, until a year and a half after it was released.

Overall a song that eventually becomes catchy, and a music video that fails to keep me entertained, there's very little to it, but all kudos goes towards the performance piece.

Loreen - My Heart Is Refusing Me

August 27, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Loreen, real name Lorine Talhaoui, won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012, which brought the most recent contest to Sweden. She has since gone on to release an album and a few singles, along with a re-release of her album, but is she following in the footsteps of all the other winners before her, failing to keep charting in the rest of Europe, and will she just end up releasing in her own country? I surely hope not. I'm expecting a new album at the end of this year, or the start of 2014, with a smashing new song that will chart globally. She is a superstar and deserves credit for it, she deserves to be heard all over the world and not just in Sweden. She has the passion for it, so I hope her fans do too.

"My Heart Is Refusing Me" was written by Moh Denebi, Björn Djupström and Loreen. Loreen performed the song on Melodifestivalen 2011 in attempt to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest 2011, but she came fourth overall. The single then got released as her first single in Sweden. Next year comes and she once again competes to be in Eurovision 2012, and she wins with "Euphoria". Then she wins the entire contest, and this song becomes her second international single. Which gained moderate success in Europe. She has gone on to release "We Got The Power" which she performed on Eurovision 2013, which also got moderate success. These songs are amazingly catchy, and I hope she gets her credit and success in the next year, as she definitely deserves it.

The music video is both narrative and performance. It is highly emotional too, and makes you wonder what Loreen has been through. Clearly that girl is Loreen at a young age, and she has definitely been through the wars.

A hard life is something that is shown in this video, and it definitely is what the song is about. Her vocals out stand me, and it is clear that Loreen means every word of it.

The song and it's video is on the dark side, and dancing really is the uplifting moment of this video, it's where Loreen releases her anger and everything else that has been building up. The inclusion of the slow motion effect really makes her iconic moves look incredible. And although it is similar to "Euphoria" it is also not, at the same time.

The ending is inspirational, it shows that she is still in her dark place, even though she is globally known, and it's like she hasn't moved, and she has just got older. Basically her problems haven't gone away, they're still there but maybe not as prominent as they used to be.

The song gets stuck in my head easily, and it should've been Loreen's second international hit, yet it only did moderately well. It's accompanying music video relates to the song and is highly emotional, just like the song. I feel there is more background to the narrative, which I would've liked to have seen, yet leaving it out was also a good idea, making us want to know and making us want to understand.

Lady Gaga - Applause

August 26, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

I cannot believe I'm reviewing this. This song is one that doesn't necessarily get stuck in my head, but it is being played too often on radios here in the UK, so much so that you recognise the song whenever it is being played. Lady Gaga, real name Stefani Germanotta, is finally back. It has been quiet for the last year, but she hasn't disappeared, hell no, and this song proves it. She is iconic in her own way and she'll never be forgotten.

"Applause", which fans are reading it as 'Applesauce', was written by Lady Gaga, Paul Blair, Dino Zisis, Nick Monson and Martin Bresso. It charted here in the UK at number five. But it wouldn't surprise me if it climbs higher in the next few weeks, since it is definitely being over-played.

This music video is extremely artistic, and that is what Lady Gaga is all about. She's intricate and involved in every aspect of her career, she knows what she is doing, even though at times we don't think she does. She's become what she is because of how involved she is, and memorable is what she aims for.

This artistic video plays with colours, costumes, some things unbelievable and some things shocking. And even though you may think: 'What is she thinking?', she clearly is thinking, and this video has made me watch again and again purely because of it's unusuality as well as the half swan half Lady Gaga.

There is no narrative, but this leaves very little to the imagination. It is in both black & white and colour, and although the black & white is used to dramatic effect, which is artistically great, I can't help but dislike the use of it. Lady Gaga is such an incredible performer and this video (and previous videos) shows it, so why did she need to experiment with colour, it's like taking a step back, in my opinion.

On the other hand, ignoring the colour overall. Her dancing is on point, the complex choreography is too easy for her, she pulls it off like it's something she does everyday, the only other artist I can come up with who dances that great is Britney Spears, yet that is a collaboration we would all love right?

Overall a song that exudes perfection and the accompanying music video exudes artistry, but do we really want that in a video? It may well be entertaining during first and second plays, but after seeing it a couple of times, and not being able to throw that image of the gaga/swan hybrid that is embedded in your head for forever, enough is enough, and your more interested in watching a video you'll enjoy watching.

New Release: Follow Your Instinct Featuring Alexandra Stan - Baby, It's OK

August 26, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Follow Your Instinct, also known as FYI, is a new urban group who happen to be up and coming. They are a three piece group consisting of Addis (a.k.a. Raptile), Lionezz and Viper. These acts alone are pretty credible, this group is what we all call a 'supergroup', that is a group that each member were successful solo artists or in another group before this one. Addis, found fame under the name Raptile, charting high in Germany, he apparently has had 500,000 sales worldwide, now he is ready to take his career to the next lever with this group. In the exact same position is Lionezz who found fame in a TV show called 'ego trip's Miss Rap Supreme', and came 8th overall. As for Viper, he has worked with various producers over the years. This group has been named the new 'Black Eyed Peas', is that true? Guess we'll have to wait and see. They kind of remind me of a mix of 'N-Dubz' and 'Platnum'. I really think FYI and Platnum should collaborate, that would definitely be an unstoppable single. Instead they have collaborated with Alexandra Stan.

Alexandra Stan, she is the whole reason I have bought this single.After having a massive hit in the whole world with "Mr. Saxobeat" as well as doing well with her follow-up singles "Get Back (ASAP)" and "Lemonade", she fell so quickly, which led to her ending up in hospital. Her then boyfriend and manager beat her up after a money dispute back in June. Now she is back, and ready to conquer yet again!

"Baby, It's OK" samples K.C. and The Sunshine Band's "Give It Up". It's a great update of the song, and so catchy. I'm surprised that it looks like it might not become a good hit, since it is one of those songs that easily get stuck in your head. However the lyrics aren't exactly strong and Viper's solo in the song adds nothing. He has a unique voice but it's not something I can see myself listening to, he isn't a great singer, but I can see how his vocals change the track.

This music video is a typical video we've seen over and over again, only this has extra scenes you never expect to see in this type of video, so it's not all bad.

We're getting pretty bored of these rap guys being surrounded by women in bikinis and in some music video even less. It doesn't interest me and what prevents one of these videos being different from another?

This music video however includes a dance sequence with professional dancers, it features two females on vocals, that being Alexandra Stan and Lionezz, so it's not all bad. Alexandra Stan is looking healthy and on top form once again, she even shows that she has dance finesse, give that girl some choreography, she will surprise us all with how she can move. Following from that Lionezz proves she is a dancer, she can definitely pull it off, and it works well.

Overall a great song that gets stuck in my head all day and for the days to follow, you lot should buy this song now! It comes with great remixes too. The music video starts off as a typical rap music video, but soon changes and proves that Follow Your Instinct is not following in footsteps of other great rappers. Keep your eyes on these guys, if they don't make it big, they'll make it global. That's what my instinct is telling me.

Cassadee Pope - Wasting All These Tears

August 19, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Cassadee Pope, lead singer of a band called Hey Monday, who I was obsessed with not long ago. When they went on hiatus I was surprised and a bit sad, but knew that it was for the best, what with them not doing as well as I had hoped, plus they didn't release much here in the UK. So then I heard Cassadee Pope had auditioned for The Voice US. I was excited and tried to follow her but since the show is not shown here in the UK, I found it difficult to remember, but when she won I was once again obsessed with her and her music, this song is so good that I couldn't help myself but buy it, now I can't stop playing it, on my laptop, on my phone, wherever and whenever I can, it's so good.

"Wasting All These Tears" was written by Caitlyn Smith and Rollie Gaalswyk. The song was unusually first released here in the UK, but with no promotion behind it, it failed to chart at all (which we expected), and later released world wide, charting well in the US. If only she were able to promote herself more, the world needs to see how brilliant she is.

The music video has everything I expected and more. The song is about hearts breaking as her boyfriend has cheated on her, and how she doesn't want to waste any more tears on him. The visual of this story is fantastic, and the narrative, which is short, works so very well.

I like the use of the photo book as well as the swing, it's part of reminiscing about past events that is now seen in a different light. She realises that he never really felt much for her compared to how much she felt for him. I love the shower of rain as she is on the swing, it's suggestive of the amount of tears she has shred. I just wish it would stop as the music video finishes.

The performance side is beautiful, as ever. It kind of reminds me a bit of "Candles". The way she performs is the exact same way she used to perform, only her voice has improved since then. She has emotion behind every single word, and she also had that in the Hey Monday videos too.

Overall a song I'm in love with, and I cannot wait for the album, it's going to be one of the best, I'm sure of it. The accompanying video is perfect, it is the only word I can possibly come up with to describe it, and we all know I'm into banjos in music. I can't wait to see what the next few years will give to this superstar in the making.

Buy on iTunes

New Release: Matt Cardle Featuring Melanie C - Loving You

August 19, 2013 Critic Jonni 2 Comments

Matt Cardle, winner of The X Factor Series Seven. He was signed to Syco but soon parted ways so that he could create the music he wanted, and boy has he done just that with this amazing song that should be charting high this Sunday. Matt Cardle is set to released his third album soon, and if this single is to give anything away, it is going to be a much loved album by his fans. The X Factor returns very soon, and the promo advert for it is so good including hits from the winners and the successful acts, however it hasn't included Matt Cardle, as well as other great acts to have come from the show. this brought quite a bit of controversy, as it does every year the promo gets released.

This song features the amazing Melanie C, 1/5th of one of the biggest and one of the best girl bands the world has ever seen, The Spice Girls. But she has definitely made a name for herself. She is currently performing in the west end, and has improved her voice and her acting skills. This is one person who knows how to perform.

The seventh series of The X Factor gave us a few good acts, as well as a few not so good. Reguardless, some got some great record labels, and this is what they have been up to as of late... Rebecca Ferguson (2nd), planning a second album, my guess is that she is on broken ice, if her new album doesn't chart well it could be the end for her and her Syco recording contract; One Direction (3rd), possibly the biggest boy band ever at the moment, here and in the US, if you don't know them, you've been hiding under a rock; Cher Lloyd (4th), working on a second album, after making it big in the US; Mary Byrne (5th), released 2 albums that charted well, and she is working on a third; Katie Waissel (7th), released an album which did not chart, and is now the front woman of a band called Red Velvet; Paije Richardson (8th), has released a few songs but nothing more; Aiden Grimshaw (9th), released "Is This Love" and "Curtain Call" as well as an album, and he is soon going to be releasing a follow up; Belle Amie (11th), released "Girls Up" but then another band member left, rumour has it that they are planning to return as a four-piece; Storm Lee (14th), re-released his album. There's a few other promising acts, but nothing concrete just yet.

"Loving You" is a song that is very catchy. It definitely reminds me of the famous duet between Bryan Adams and Melanie C called "When You're Gone". The song is also being released outside of the UK, in an attempt to crack the US maybe? With a featured guest as big as Melanie C, I guess it has a very big chance. I love the song, and although I am not a Matt Cardle fan, I have bought this song because it is that good! It's currently charting high on the iTunes top 100, getting into the top 10, lets hope it can stay there.

The music video has caused a bit of a controversy spark all over the country due to the kiss... Are they together? I want them to be as they would be a great couple, however I believe they are just friends. But I'm sure their fans would be happy for them if they did start a relationship with each other, we can always keep hoping they'll announce they're together, but it seems unlikely at the moment.

It is mainly a performance piece what with them singing the song in a house. Which is quite empty to be honest. It is full of emotion exactly like the song is and I can't help but feel sad for them as I try to work out why they are so lonely.

The performance piece acts as a narrative too, as far as I can depict, they are two people who have been having a fling together, this relates to the song perfectly such as when they sing 'does somebody hold you when you let me go?'. It is vividly strong, and they continue to sing how it's not enough for their hearts, they clearly deserve to be together, and the harmonies in this amazing song is just outstanding, they should so collaborate again in the future.

Overall a song that just blows me away and deserves a high charting, I'm hoping the more people who hear it the more people who will buy it, and surely radio has been picking it up, and if it isn't, it will do after this week as it seems to be charting this Sunday. The music video is great to watch, I have a few problems like what Melanie C is wearing... What is with that biker jacket? It just doesn't suit her, it may have done if she was wearing it properly, but she really isn't. But no other problems, just that the narrative could have been expanded that little bit more.

Lumidee - Never Leave You (Uh Oooh, Uh Oooh)

August 18, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

So Lumidee's only hit to date in many countries, so of course I was going to review this song as my Sunday Revisit, since she is set to make a comeback, we hope. Her full name is Lumidee Cedeño and has released a fair few other singles, which never gained much interest. She is still a one hit wonder, and returning to this track, like many others before me, has revealed that she wasn't that great of a singer as I remembered, but who needs to be a good singer if you have the right song, you can conquer. Especially since her comeback has shown she's a great rapper. Check out her new song, which vs. Fatman Scoop: "Dance 2013", it has to be a hit right?

"Never Leave You (Uh Oooh, Uh Oooh)" was written by Lumidee Cedeño, Teddy Mendez, Edwin Perez, Steven Marsden, Trevor Smith and John Jackson. The latter two are the real names of the people who feature in this song and those are Busta Rhymes and Fabolous respectively. I am not sure why they aren't officially featured. I guess they wanted to market Lumidee's first track and features wasn't quite so popular as it is now, however Lumidee only got to number two in the UK with this back in 2003, being beaten by Blu Cantrell Featuring Sean Paul "Breathe". I could've sworn this got to the top spot here, but clearly she got a lot of money from this track, since she has come back looking well off. Some people do say that all it takes is one hit song.

This video is definitely old school. The video I have found doesn't show it off that well, and I'm pretty sure there are probably better videos of this music video about. But ignoring the whole picture quality this is a video from the streets, where Lumidee is from.

There is a narrative and a performance piece, along with various dance sequences mixed in with the scenes. This adds to the video a lot.

The performance side is good, Lumidee is just going about her day walking through the crowd as if it is any other day, it's like she's not even aware of the camera and we're just part of the crowd, she is very much a natural. I love Busta Rhymes' rap it works well and he is really getting into this song, the way he is moving and you just know he is happy to be there... Whereas Fabolous... Well he's trying to not be there, hiding under his cap not even moving, as if he's extremely nervous and then when it's his turn to rap his head pops up and it looks like he's thinking 'Is it my turn now?', he soon raps and once he's finished he starts to loosen up a bit. I think they should've helped him to relax more, I hope he has improved from that day.

The narrative side links in well with the song, there's a love interest who is played by J. D. Williams, who has featured in many music videos these are Aaliyah's "Miss You", Freeway's "What We Do", Mariah Carey's "Through The Rain", Cam'Ron's "Lord You Know", Fabolous' "Breathe", Tupac Shakur's "Ghetto Gospel", Mario's "How Could You" and Prodigy's "Stuck On You". Quite the music video actor isn't he. Not much really happens with them two, but you can tell that they were together and there's still feelings between them.

The dancing is really good, and a lot of work was put in to nail all of it. I feel it would have been better to have seen Lumidee take part too, like we wanted Rita Ora to dance in the song "Hot Right Now" by DJ fresh, which she features on. The choreography is on point, and although we don't see all that much of it, it still stands out, and reminds me of the dancing in Step Up and it's sequels. This song would have been perfect for it's soundtrack.

Overall a song that I still like today even though her vocals aren't so great. This song is definitely a guilty pleasure, one of those ones that you still like even though you haven't heard it in ages, and you still know most of the lyrics (much to my embarrassment). The music video, relates, is funny (especially at Fabolous' expense) and was released at the right time. The song should've been number one here in the UK, and I hope Lumidee manages to make a worthy comeback, I am still waiting for that amazing day.

Fifth Harmony - Miss Movin' On

August 17, 2013 Critic Jonni 2 Comments

Miss Movin’ On - Fifth Harmony |

Fifth Harmony, a girl group from the US, who are well known for competing on The X Factor US season two, came third overall. They consist of Ally Brooke, Normani Kordei, Lauren Jauregui, Camila Cabello and Dinah Hansen. They have become the first artist from The X Factor US to chart in the Billboard Top 100, and I hope they continue to succeed. They were competing against many great contestants, and it was such a great series to watch, but what are the finalists up to now?

Tate Stevens (winner), released an album and single, and charted well on the country charts; Carly Rose Sonenclar (2nd), the amazing 14 year old who is currently getting ready to release her first single (expect a chart worthy song, she's so good!); Emblem3 (4th), released a single called "Chloe (You're The One That I Want)" that made them the second X Factor US act to chart on the Billboard Top 100, as well as releasing an album that also charted well; Diamond White (5th) has been signed as well as playing minor characters in various tv series; CeCe Frey (6th), has some news that is yet to be announced, I'm hoping she has been signed as she has star quality; Paige Thomas (8th), has been signed, released a song called "Lolli" and apparently there's an album in the works; Beatrice Miller (9th), became signed in April 2013, but no more news; Lyric 145 (12th), released a single called "I Get It", along with a mixtape that I'm obsessed with, I am hoping for more releases from them in the near future; Sister C (joint 14th) released a self-titled EP, and I'm also hoping they release more in the future. I hope that all the finalists get a recording contract, as they are all amazing and I think it's going to be hard for the third season to top this!

"Miss Movin' On" was written by Mitch Allan, Jason Evigan, Lindy Robbins and Julia Michaels. The song is one of those songs that become stuck in your head after hearing it a few times. I feel that it isn't quite the right song for them compared to the amazing performances they did on The X Factor US... As well as that, the video isn't quite right either...

A performance and a narrative in one, this should get top marks, but if you have already scrolled down, you'll see that this isn't the case.

The performance side is sloppy, messy and out of sync. Come on, this is a girl group, who are bound to be compared to other girl groups, from The Spice Girls to The Saturdays, from Girls Aloud to Little Mix. The girls need to have choreography down to a dot, they need to all be doing the same moves in sync, or it turns out like this.

Not only that but it looks like five upcoming female artists who have collaborated for this one song, they all want the spotlight as if it's a competition and the winner gets a recording contract, it just looks wrong and unappealing.

The narrative attempts to bring it all back, but we're too lost by the awful performance scene to ever be entertained by this narrative, which focuses on the girls getting rid of the past and moving on; hopefully, to forget their ex-boyfriends.

Overall a song that still hasn't been released in the UK, but if it ever does, I so hope it charts well here. And a music video that probably looked good on paper, but in reality, the visual just fails to keep me interested. I'll be giving it kudos, though, based on this being their first music video, as well as that I hope the team behind them bring out a better second single video.

Buy on iTunes (only available on a soundtrack)

Lumidee Vs. Fatman Scoop - Dance 2013

August 16, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Lumidee, remember her? Well known for her first single "Never Leave You (Uh Oooh, Uh Oooh)"? No? Well it got to number two here in the UK way back in 2003, being beaten to the post by Blu Cantrell and Sean Paul's "Breathe". You could call her a one hit wonder here in the UK, especially since her second single "Crashin' A Party" failed to make it in the top 40. Her full name is Lumidee Cedeño, and has been trying to get a hit for a while, and I'm sure she has found one right here, could she get this song to number one here in the UK? Well the song includes another 2003/2004 hit maker called Fatman Scoop, real name Isaac Freeman III, who made it to number one in the UK with "Be Faithful" in 2003, and his second single "It Takes Scoop" featuring DJ Kool, managed number nine in 2004, but no other charting singles to date. Could this song too push him back into the spotlight? I definitely can imagine this song tearing the clubs up and down the country. So I'm hopeful it will do well. And we may just have two stars from a decade ago being well known again.

"Dance 2013" is a remix of the previous 2006 release of "Dance!" which did okay across the world, with a few top 10 hits in Europe. It was written by George Merrill, Shannon Rubicam, Cordell Burrell, Lumidee Cedeño and Isaac Freeman. I am presuming the writing credits are the same for the 2013 remix, as I don't think much has changed except for the extremely catchy beat. The song samples Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" as well as Scooter's "Maria (I Like It Loud)" and Nina Sky's "Move Ya Body" apparently.

The music video is totally different to their first music video for "Dance!", which I will review in the future as it is different. This one is updated, more modern, and the song is definitely one of those songs you are more than likely going to be hearing in the clubs.

The video relates to the song a lot, with various trained professional dancers doing backflips, and various other moves that I can't even think of doing let alone know how to. Some of them really stand out, and I'm like, how'd you pull that one off?

The performance pieces are great to watch, they clearly enjoy this remix and I can't help but sing along, it's such a great song, and if it's not a hit here in the UK, I'm going to be shocked.

Overall a song that needs to chart at number one here in the UK, or at least really high, and it's so catchy. The accompanying music video, relates, is great to watch and is just perfect in every way. I love that they have people off the streets dancing too including Buzz Lightyear, Elmo, Minnie Mouse and Hello Kitty. As well as the Statue of Liberty. So much greatness all in one video.

Sam Callahan - Crazy

August 15, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Sam Callahan, Critic Jonni's first ever Artist Of The Month, way back in February, is soon going to be one of the most talked about artists at the end of this year. He is currently doing well in The X Factor this year, so we'll all be seeing him on our TV screens in the future. He previously released "Runaway Train" as his first single. Next was this single which involved him taking part in 15 crazy stunts for charity, all of which appear in this music video as he reminisces over those stunts. So while you are watching The X Factor this year, don't forget to root for him!

The 15 crazy stunts Sam Callahan was involved in were: 1) A Ghost Hunt, 2) Eat a 26" Pizza, 3) Back flip off the top divers board, 4) Wake Boarding, 5) Pole Dancing, 6) Horse Jump, 7) 160ft Bungee Jump, 8) Morris Dancing, 9) Fire Walk, 10) 100mph Zip Wire, 11) Zorbing, 12) Spartan Challenge, 13) Skinny Dip, 14) Dirt Bike Jump, and 15) Sky Dive. All crazy stunts include videos and they can be seen by clicking here, you can also still donate, he was raising money for Teenage Cancer Trust.

This video is mainly a performance piece, without all the editing, all we would have is Sam Callahan singing the song. However, that is not all that he is doing. His lyrics mean a lot to him, and each word in the song is sung with emotion, and you can really believe Sam Callahan is going to do well in the music industry.

The videos have various scenes to them. The start clip can be considered part of the narrative, as Sam and this girl in the video clip are going on a road trip, and he is clearly fantasising about her, and therefore the song relates to the video pretty well.

Overall a song that deserved to chart, but didn't, however might get a chance when The X Factor returns and his audition is shown. And an accompanying video that is good in some ways, but not so good in others. I have to give credit to the editors, they did a good job with this. But I feel that we should have seen a little more of the narrative and the videos rather than focusing entirely on Sam Callahan's performance piece.

Caleidra - Ask Me Why

August 14, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Caleidra, real name Naomi Higginson, got global press last year when her song "With You" got submitted for a GCSE exam which not only gained her an A in her music GCSE, but it also came with a record deal that planned on pushing her into the limelight. Yet I hadn't heard of her until just a few weeks ago, when this song came to my attention. And I'm surprised Caleidra hasn't become a household name, but hopefully she will keep fighting for what she loves and she'll eventually be someone who everyone talks about.

"Ask Me Why" is one of those songs that after first listen you are unsure about, yet an hour after that first listen you realise it's stuck in your head and you've been singing to it. It is very captivating, and if her other songs are just as good I'm sure this girl will find the success she clearly deserves.

The music video is a typical school teenage music video, this has been done thousands of times from Britney Spears' "...Baby One More Time", to JoJo's "Leave (Get Out)", from Stacie Orrico's "Stuck" to Mandia Nanatsios' "One Last Time", as well as H "Two" O featuring Platnum's "What's It Gonna Be", The Fader's "No Sleep Tonight" and even the most recent Avril Lavigne's "Here's To Never Growing Up". Are we actually getting bored of seeing these settings? Are we seeing them too often?

Well I think it's hard to make it original, but it is always possible. If you think of all the settings in all music videos you have ever watched, you will notice that a lot of music videos contains beaches, towns, parks, tours, gigs and other settings. I just think a school setting are much more noticeable.

The video relates to the song well, and usually a narrative and performance piece in a music video gets high ratings, but there are a few problems. The narrative scene seems old and out-dated, I think it was the camera used, but it has this thing to it, that makes it feel older than Britney's "...Baby One More Time". Caleidra is a modern singer, and that needs to be reflected in the narrative scenes.

On the other hand, the performance piece is great, vibes are thrown out while she sings, especially when she is on the stage, but as well as that the bit where she is beside the water, is bright and fun, and she clearly means every word she is singing.

Overall a song that is appealing and something I may be listening to over and over again. And an accompanying music video that is relatable, fun and really introduces Caleidra to us. Some issues are there, but since the future is Caleidra, this is one girl we should be seeing more of in the future. I wish her the best of luck in conquering the music industry. If she really wants it, she'll get it.

Panic! At The Disco - This Is Gospel

August 13, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

After the last two music videos I have reviewed which were Ellie Goulding's "Burn" and Miley Cyrus' "We Can't Stop", both videos fail to keep me engaged, I thought it was about time I chose a video that did, and this one sure does.

I have to admit, I had lost hope that Panic! At The Disco will ever come back with an amazing track. Their songs are those sort of songs that fit the time period, ones that are catchy at that time of year but never stands the test of time, and when you come across those tracks once again you want to know what made you like them so much. And after the release of their most recent single "Miss Jackson" featuring Lolo, I thought it was the end of them, but this new song has definitely changed that around, and I actually want to hear their new album. This song has given me hope. The band is now a three-piece consisting of Brendon Urie, Spencer Smith and Dallon Weekes.

"This Is Gospel" was written by Brendon Urie, and is extremely personal to him, apparently it was kept back from the rest of the band for a few months before he plucked up the courage to show it's awesomeness to the band. I find it really catchy and something I'll be playing again and again. I hope it charts well here in the UK but since it has received quite a lot of hits on YouTube considering it was only released yesterday, this is bound to be a hit.

The music video is... I'm not quite sure how to explain this music video one bit. But I guess a lot of girls out there are enjoying this video, as the YouTube comments suggest.

Brendon Urie is being restrained and obviously for his own good, guess these surgeons don't let you leave against medical advice. And they sedate him to get him to comply. They clearly know what they want to do to him.

While asleep he gets all dressed up only to be contained into a coffin and filled with water, but he breaks out when the chorus kicks in and just like that he heads towards the light, leaving us wondering if he has gone up to heaven and died during the surgery, or was it the light that brings him back to life, all the surgery done and dealt with?

Overall a song that has impressed me, and I really do hope this band gets a hit out of this, that beats "Nine In The Afternoon" which got to number 13 here in the UK (which now sounds surprising since it's more of a guilty pleasure than anything else). The accompanying music video is good, and is representative of not just the song, but also their band mate Spencer Smith, who has been battling an addiction to alcohol and drugs. I have respect for this band, but they haven't brought me back as a fan of theirs just yet, but I hope their third single release from their new album will make me want to listen to them all over again.

Miley Cyrus - We Can't Stop

August 12, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Miley Cyrus, real name Destiny Cyrus, has finally got her first UK top 10, and not only that but it reached the top spot! Miley Cyrus has FINALLY got her first UK number one, and this song is what put her there. Her previous highest chart number was joint 11, three of her singles from her music career has reached that number and those are "Party in the U.S.A.", "The Climb" and "See You Again". She definitely had a destiny, and this is exactly it. I doubt she'll disappear, and at just 20 (the same age as me) she is very much in the limelight, and I can't wait to see what her album brings, it's bound to be good.

"We Can't Stop" was written by Mike L. Williams II, Timothy Thomas, Ricky Walter, Theron Thomas and Douglas Davis. It has an infectious sound, and apparently was made with Rihanna in mind, I bet they never guessed our sweet little Miley Cyrus would be singing it. But she is far from who we all thought she used to be. I hate to admit this, but I wasn't into it that much the first time I heard it, but the more I've been hearing it, I just can't help but love it as much as everyone else. It really is infectious.

The music video, on the other hand is not what I was expecting. This has a first music video written all over it. But I guess it can be seen as a directional change and so will let it off. Other critics have compared it to Lady Gaga's first music video which features Colby O'Donis "Just Dance" as well as Christina Aguilera's directional change music video which features Redman "Dirrty". And I have to agree.

The song is about being young and having fun and drinking and clubbing and everything that contains, as well as Miley's new favourite dance: 'Twerking'.

There are a few fun bits in the music video, such as the pool and where the water gets splashed over Miley, it is fun fun fun, and what more should you expect. It relates right?

Well it does, but it's not something that I'd go out of my way to watch, the Teddy's are something I would have liked to have seen more of, but it's pretty much crazily fun which makes me realise I'm missing out on stuff at this current moment, and I just feel the video doesn't keep me entertained.

Overall an amazing song that I can't stop listening, well we all can't stop can we? And a music video that does relate but fails to keep me eager to watch it. Leaving me stuck for choice on a rating. But I've finally chosen a rating, and I hope you all agree. As I've previously said, if it was down to the song I would be giving this top stars, but since it's purely music video only, this is my rating. I cannot wait to see what her album brings, and I've heard there's a Britney Spears collaboration on there too...

New Release: Ellie Goulding - Burn

August 12, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Ellie Goulding, real name Elena Goulding, is set to storm the UK Charts this week with this song, if she manages the top spot she will be claiming her first number one. This is the first time she has been reviewed on my blog, since I'm not much of a fan of hers and usually there is other singers I'm much more interested in reviewing. Today it was a toss-up between reviewing this one or The Wanted's "We Own The Night", however I chose Ellie Goulding because I haven't reviewed her previously, even "Your Song" her version of Elton John's "Your Song" hasn't been on my blog yet, although it is uniquely great. I still think she's finding her place in music at the moment, but now that this song is set to chart high, has she just found her place?

"Burn" was written by Ryan Tedder, Ellie Goulding, Greg Kurstin, Brent Kutzie and Noel Zancanella. It was originally recorded by Leona Lewis with her third album in mind, however it didn't make the final cut, I bet the people behind Leona Lewis are screwing at how this hit has slipped through their hands (Leona's version can be found below). I prefer Ellie Goulding's version, but I think that is because Leona's is just a demo (although better vocally), Ellie's has been produced and released, and it sounds better, my opinion might be different if Leona had gone on to release it. This song has been played often on the radio, hence why it's doing so well on the iTunes chart this week. It's not my sort of song (I'm not being biased, it just isn't something I would buy), however I do see how so many people find it catchy and why it has stormed the iTunes chart.

The music video relates to the song well, but that is where I stop enjoying it. Not a lot is going on and I've already had to watch it again and again as I keep forgetting what happens in the video due to the fact that not a lot is happening. Instead I'm looking around my room and tapping and waiting for the video to finish. I am distracting myself without even meaning to.

I have to admit Ellie Goulding looks relaxed, she's having fun and seems to be just enjoying recording the music video as well as singing the song. She seems free and open.

I like that they use the lights to spell out her initials in a triangle. It relates to the song as lights burn, but it's only a slight link.

The party seems fun, in fact I want to be there, guess I need a night out, yet I still have to wait until September. But this looks like a lot of fun, and that's what I need.

Overall, a song that fails to capture me but has become a hit here in the UK, and has become catchy to many other people. And a music video that has failed to excite me, yet has shown fun, lights and everything that an average music video usually brings. So what sort of rating does an average video get from me? Well this rating of course.

Lukay - Dance With You

August 06, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Lukay... Hit or miss? Well he is definitely a hit with me, he can sing, dance and he shows some acting skills in this as well. He is the triple threat, watch out guys, his name will be on your lips in the next few years, and we won't even remember the day he wasn't well known, but for the moment we are living those days. He is a big hit in his home country of Canada winning numerous awards for his music. His first single was "I'm In Love With Music". Now with his second single doing so well, which is not at all surprising with his fan base and amazing vocals and dancing, this is one person we're going to have to keep our eyes on.

"Dance With You" is written by Lukay and is super super catchy, his voice reminds me a lot of Ne-Yo's, but the beat behind it is reminiscent of some of Avicii's stuff. This explains why it is so catchy and something I have watched quite a few times over. But I have to admit it isn't because of the song, it's because of the music video.

My current count is four times watching this, trying to find some flaw to knock this video down a star, but there just is no bad stuff with this video. It's full of amazingness that I can't stop watching.

I like the choreography, as I have stated before, this guy can dance! And that is more than a fact. Whoever the choreographer was is brilliant.

It is both performance and narrative rolled into one, as he wants this girl to dance with him. It reminds me of the chemistry between PSY and Hyuna in "Gangnam Style". He follows her about and she finally dances with him, but looks more of a fight to get him away from her. But with persistence gets you everywhere and she succumbs to his brilliant dancing.

Overall a song that I've already downloaded, and I reckon you should do that too, as it is oh-so catchy. And a music video that I would love to see on the music channels, as it is so good, and we need more dancing in music videos!

Avicii - Wake Me Up

August 05, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Avicii is back with a brand new track, that I was unsure of at first, but as radio play for it picked up and it slotting right into the top spot of the UK chart, I've come to be obsessed with it, much like everyone else. His real name is Tim Bergling and has gone on to release singles under the names of Tim Berg and Tom Hangs as well as Avicii. This is his first single from his first album to be released some time next month. It contains many collaborations and is going to be called 'True'. This Swedish DJ is definitely my favourite DJ in the world, at the moment, and I support all his music, and luckily for me I have yet to come across a track I don't like.

"Wake Me Up" is written by Tim Bergling, Aloe Blacc and Mike Einziger. Aloe Blacc provides the vocals for the track. The song is super catchy and has hit number one in many different countries. This has literally stormed the chart everywhere.

The music video is sweet and interesting, the two girls in the video are great characters, and they both have the Avicii logo on their arms. The little girl doesn't understand why no one likes them. While it's clear to us that they have nice clothes (product placement of Ralph Lauren's 'Denim & Supply') whereas the villagers are all wearing dirty clothes that they have probably worn day in day out. So the older sister rides her horse and goes into a town, where she finds another girl who also has the Avicii sign. They go to see Avicii live.

Afterwards she rides home tells the little girl to pack and they walk on the road into town. The last scene shows another girl looking quite lonely, maybe she wanted to go with them.

The gig promotes Sony, which is another product placement. This is starting to become well known in music videos, especially after Avril Lavigne's "What The Hell".

I was happy to find Avicii and Aloe Blacc appearing. And this whole video has 'The Walking Dead' feel to it, although there is not a zombie in sight, just people branded with the Avicii mark.

Overall a exceptional song that is more than worthy of the number one here in the UK and practically everywhere else. The music video is so relatable since most people feel out of place somewhere within their lives, as well as that it is relatable to the song. My one problem is that I feel there is more to this story than what the video shows. Why are them two outsiders in their village? I feel like maybe there's a prequel to this story, since this leaves me with many questions such as... Where are their parents? How did they get the Avicii mark? And the main question is why aren't they liked?

Buy on iTunes

New Release: Times Red - Not Listening

August 05, 2013 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Times Red is my new release this week, I am definitely a fan of theirs and they came to my attention when they followed me on twitter. That made me make a special on my blog, and made me realised where I had come across them before, which was on The X Factor, where they only made the Judges' Houses. They are a three piece band consisting of Scott Ritchie, Staz Nair and Luke White. They have previously released a single called "Just No Good For Me". This song is different but just as good. They call their fans TReds, I guess I'm one of them too.

The music video is something different, that's for sure. I have never come across another music video that is done the same way as this one has, with the camera, however, I wouldn't be surprised if there has been other videos using the same technique, I've just never come across them that's all, not yet anyway.

It is mainly performance based, with scenes where they're just chilling with mates, which could be a slight narrative, but not much of one.

There are many laughable bits, mainly coming from Luke White, who falls asleep on a bench and gets kissed by two old women (reminding me of Good Charlotte's "Girls & Boys"). Luke also slips near the water making me laugh, as well as pretending to be a photographer and throwing the photos behind him. And not forgetting the Usain Bolt pose.

But is that all the laughs people get? Well that definitely isn't it, people keep pausing the video at exactly 1:42... And I think we all know why.

I also find the camera monumentally great. I love how they throw it up in the air and catch it a few seconds later, it's like they are actually throwing you around. They definitely had fun that day, and I think a behind the scenes video is exactly what we would all like to see.

Overall a song that becomes more and more catchy the more we hear it, and a music video that looks like it should be bland and boring, but much like the song I keep watching it over and over again as it's so unique and fun, sometimes I feel like I'm flying through the air, which is so great. The one single problem I have is that the narrative should have been expanded more. But apart from that, an exceptionally great video!

Buy on iTunes