Philip George - Wish You Were Mine

April 30, 2016 Critic Jonni 3 Comments

After a three hour wait for a game to download thanks to the insistence of my brother and his girlfriend, only for my laptop to the crash whilst we manage to play it; we discussed music videos and this one was the one we talked about, and how it's confusing and doesn't make sense. It surely doesn't relate to the song. Philip George becomes various people, as we follow the central character as he dances his way through the day, in the wish you were mine music video.

Philip George is a 22-year-old DJ from Nottingham in the UK. This is his debut single released on 3Beat Records, his follow-up single "Alone No More" was as much of a chart success as this song was. It seems Philip George is the DJ to watch as he releases hit after hit after hit, and with 3Best behind him all the way, promoting his every step, we'll definitely be seeing more from him. This song hit number two in the UK, just missing out from the top spot thanks to "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars. The song samples "My Cherie Amour" by Stevie Wonder. Hence why the song was written by Stevie Wonder, Sylvia Moy and Henry Cosby.

The music video is intricately thought out, although it doesn't relate and it doesn't make sense.

The start is unsettling slow and focuses on the home setting and his home life. the video inspires dreams and to go after what you want. He turns on his music player and envisions a day filled with dancing, wishing a girl would be his.

Although there isn't a central love interest, the start suggests that the girl he passes on the street is who he is thinking of. The neighbour is an incredible dancer, but it's too obvious that it's a fake setting, it's supposed to make us realise we're in his daydream, yet it just confuses us more with the spotlights.

Philip George turns up in this video as one sexy policeman (I'd stand in front of that window all day if it meant he would appear and tell me to stop looking)! He appears as a good looking shop keeper (I'd be in that shop all the time, not going to lie), and a bus driver (less emphasis on him in this scene). Philip George sees the dancers dancing in reflections or on a camera, and yet they are just going about their normal days,. This is the kid's daydream, and yet Philip George can also see the daydream. It's a nice idea although it suggests the kid wishes Philip George was his, instead of actively including a love interest for the kid.

The ending tells us that this is all a daydream, but the kid smiles nonetheless. He's clearly obsessed with this song and this is what goes through his head whenever he hears it.

Unrelatable and yet some pretty good dancing that is slightly in time with the song. It's not suggestive enough leaving the audience confused. It doesn't make sense and it doesn't relate to the song. This could be linked with any song and it still wouldn't make a difference. A nice idea that isn't followed through enough.

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New Release: AlunaGeorge Featuring ZHU - My Blood

April 29, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

If you want her blood, her love, you have better come see her. AlunaGeorge's amazing new song is quite the grower, much like their other songs. Aluna takes centre stage as always in this cold stare of a video, or should I say visualette? Aluna Francis doesn't do much in her bedroom, apart from stare at her reflection in a broken mirror, telling someone that they better come see her if they want her blood or her love.

AlunaGeorge are a duo consisting of Aluna Francis and George Reid. They have had various occasional hits, with many of their singles not charting at all, however they did get a critically acclaimed debut album. They're ready to follow up with their next album 'I Remember', but their single releases haven't exactly been popular. This song has got me slightly excited to see what is to come, as this is quite the grower, something I could totally see radio picking up as weeks go by, although it doesn't feel like a chart success. The song features ZHU, real name Steven Zhu, who is a music producer and has had a massive worldwide hit with "Faded". His follow-up singles didn't prove so well, but he'll be one that never strays too far from the limelight, definitely will see another chart hit from him soon, no doubt. The song was written by Aluna Francis, George Reid, Steven Zhu and Dante Jones.

Directed by Daniel Iglesias Jr. the video is a visualisation of strength. Aluna Francis acts well, you can feel her pain; her sadness. Her cold stare sends chill waves to me, I wouldn't want to be on the wrong side of her.

Aluna Francis hand-dries her hair, either she's just had a shower or she's come in from a massive storm; the state of the bedroom suggests the latter creatively.

There's a lot of close ups, the smoke rising from the cigarette in the ashtray sends the entire video hazy. Seven years bad luck from the broken mirror, reflects the small amount of change she has.

She performs effortlessly, you can really tell this song means so much to her, and I'm captured by her performance in the mirror, she knows exactly how to send emotion out, and she does an amazing job.

Overall, a pure relaxed performance piece, filled with pain and sadness. Effortlessly portrayed in this visualette, that is an outstanding piece of work, it relates, it's cold and creepy, yet simple and artistic. There's not much else to say.

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Carly Rae Jepsen - Bucket

April 28, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Fresh from coming fifth on Canadian Idol, Carly Rae Jepsen started working on her debut album. It's considered underrated by many, but I feel it's more of a try-hard album, one where she was being too imaginative in her lyrics that it was lost as a whole. This is one of my favourite songs from the album. Carly Rae Jepsen has fun with friends on a beach, as she sings about not being able to build a sandcastle as there is a hole in her bucket.

Carly Rae Jepsen is my revisit this week, purely because I haven't had much choice this week, and I haven't seen this music video. Totally different to "Boy Problems" it really shows how she's progressed as a singer in the music industry. However, I wish I knew her secret to staying young, I'm already looking older than her, even though she's seven years older than me. I'm hoping new music is coming towards the end of this year, as she needs to get her name back out there, with a smashing chart hit. This song was written by Carly Rae Jepsen and peaked at number 32 on the Canadian Hot 100 chart.

Directed by Ben Knetchtel, the music video was shot in Vancouver. It is a simple performance piece that is totally relaxed. Carly Rae Jepsen has been quoted as saying that it felt more like a beach party than a music video.

All the extras were Carly Rae Jepsen's friends. This gives it a good feel-good vibe to the music video as the friendships shown are all very real.

There's no sign of a bucket in the video, although there is a setting sun, and it's hard to believe that it is freezing cold weather.

The performance piece is on point, nevertheless. Carly Rae Jepsen is a performer and that goes without saying, she's got a perfect voice and she can showcase it on a stage, on a beach or at an exclusive acoustic gig.

Overall, it relates to an extent and it's very relaxed. The scenes are intricate even if it was just a simple beach party to Carly Rae Jepsen. I just wish I was one of her friends, as she clearly needs someone to talk to about her "Boy Problems" and she seems to be easy to get along with, she'll be an amazing friend to have no doubt.

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Carly Rae Jepsen - Boy Problems

April 27, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Carly Rae Jepsen dropped this new music video for her fourth single from her critically acclaimed album E●MO●TION, which I am obsessed with. Boy Problems takes us back to the 80's with this feel good song about breaking up with her boyfriend and her best friend not caring because she's got worse problems. Let's be honest, everyone has boy problems or girl problems, there's always some sort of dilemma. There's always a best friend to listen, but sometimes they can only hear so much before they stop caring, especially when you don't listen to them. Carly Rae Jepsen shows that best friends are taken for granted and perfect for spilling your boy problems to, even if they don't care.

Carly Rae Jepsen first appeared on Canadian Idol. She's had a number one with "Call Me Maybe" and although her most recent album was critically acclaimed, the album didn't chart so well. I saw her live during an album signing in September, read more about it here. Surprisingly, she's 30 years old, and hasn't really became the success we all expect her to, although she's had some good hits, such as "Call Me Maybe", "Good Time" and "I Really Like You", I'm hoping new music will push her back in the spotlight, and although this 80's vibe suits her, it's not as popular as it should be. This song was written by Carly Rae Jepsen, Sia Furler, Greg Kurstin and Tavish Crowe.

Directed by Petra Collins, there's a full cast of girls featuring Alexandra Marzella, Manon Macasaet, Torraine Futurum, Chloe Pultar, Carlotta Kohl, Diana Veras, Barbie Ferreira, Kaila Chambers, Tavi Gevinson, Dounia Tazi, Minahil Mahmood, Hannah Park, Paloma Elsesser, Taylor Coward and Samira Alfaris.

Carly Rae Jepsen still looks incredibly young. Her songs always seem bubble-gum popish, with a deep meaning behind each and every one of them, you would never think she was actually 30 years old. But who cares at what age you're discovered, as long as you have hit songs and the amazing voice to go with it, who cares?

The same can be said about boy problems. everyone's had them and everyone's got them. The music video really shows this with the amount of girls in the video, all singing the lyrics to the song, suggesting that they also broke up with their boyfriends today too.

Carly Rae Jepsen is curled up in bed throughout most of the video. She seems upset that she ended the relationship, but at the same time she's in a good mood because she hasn't lost her best friend, and this track is upbeat nonetheless.

There's not a lot to this music video, I've seen Carly Rae Jepsen perform much better than this, and her acoustic version of "Your Type" at that exclusive gig had me in tears. She can perform amazingly, and this just doesn't come across that well. Having saying that, the song and video feels exactly like comfort ice cream, you know... When you've just ended a relationship, and you turn to that fat tub of ice cream in the freezer, and you grab a spoon and eat it all... Well now we've got this music video to watch instead, it's uplifting, it's a comfort and you definitely won't be ten stone heavier the next day, unless you eat ice cream whilst watching this (that's not a suggestion by the way). Overall, it's a good performance piece, but nothing spectacular. Loving the new hair, by the way, Carly Rae Jepsen.

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Sam Callahan - I Love It When You

April 26, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Sam Callahan has done it again, he has released one banger of a song I can't stop playing over and over again. 'What is it you do to me?' High energy, amazing vocals, and the perfect path for him to go down. A past Artist Of The Month, is setting clubs alive with this song, and I'd definitely be requesting it in any club I'm in, and will definitely be playing it at any predrinks and house parties I host. 'I don't know what you do to me'. Sam Callahan is back stronger than ever, sexy upbeat tempo track that compliments his vocals, and a club style music video that accompanies the song effortlessly.

Sam Callahan is another one of The X Factor alumni, but that wasn't where I first came across him. He was promoted before The X Factor and appeared in both Attitude Magazine and Gay Times Magazine, it's where I spotted him over three years ago. He released "Runaway Train" and "Crazy" before entering for the competition. He got to the live shows, with his callafan army behind him. It gave him more exposure and many more fans. After a wayward dip in the rock world, he has turned his sights on dance/house music and this definitely suits him much more. After the release of "Bigger Things", I wondered what was next, and here is my new favourite song from him. I Love It When You was written by Sam Callahan, Warren Meyers, Jenna Donnelly and Matthew Meyers.

Directed by Harvey Lewis, I instantly prefer it over "Bigger Things". A mainly performance piece with a hidden narrative, Sam Callahan finally has perfect stage presence and portrays this song amazingly, he's heart is definitely into this one, and he's loving every minute of it.

Set in Talk Nightclub in Southend, the video has the same feel of the song, with edited scenes that are repeated at times, allowing for an upbeat video. It features Tiffany Theatre College and Vapour Creations (the latter provided the smoke table which holds the drinks in Sam Callahan's booth).

The narrative never quite forms, it works to an extent, but this girl is jumping from one guy to the next, which isn't exactly a rarity in clubs. The first guy she's talking to at the bar is presumable later found in the men's toilets with another girl. Then she comes across Sam Callahan, and after a few exchanges they head back to his booth, where he says something stupid and she pushes him away. Whatever you said Sam Callahan, never say it again!

There's a few people with scary masks on, suggesting alcohol is going to the clubbers heads. Allowing a distorted version of events which totally relates to the song

More clubbing enfolds, including a crowd surf, a champagne soaking (who wouldn't like to get Sam Callahan wet?) and plenty of dancing; with a cheeky UV kiss on his cheek, right at the end.

Overall, an amazingly catchy song that has been stuck in my head since it was released on SoundCloud. The music video finally got released, along with the pre-order of the radio edit. The video relates, it's energetic, has perfect performance vibes from Sam Callahan, and attempts at a narrative that leaves us wanting more. Sam Callahan has found his sound, he just needs promotion and success. I Love It When You is a banger, and it's going to be one of those uncharted treasures that should've been popular.

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MK & Becky Hill - Piece Of Me

April 25, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Becky Hill is back with another smash hit that is no doubt going to be big sometime soon... She's also back with a video that has got us all confused once again; very weird. It does have meaning though, bare with me, there's a total back story to this that can make sense and is open to interpretation, but definitely works and relates to the song. MK and Becky Hill have created a perfect hit that instantly gets stuck in my head, the music video is just as memorable, in it's weird but wonderful ways, nothing new when it comes to Becky Hill music videos.

MK, real name Marc Kinchen, is an american DJ and music producer. He's remix of Storm Queen's "Look Right Through" hit number one in the UK. He has done extensive remixes, which is unsurprising since he has been in the music industry for decades. He had a few hits in the 90's, especially in the clubs. "Always" which features Alana was remixed by Route 94 and re-entered the UK chart at number 14. In doing so, it has kickstarted his career once again. Becky Hill is the new starter, the girl from The Voice UK season one, the girl who's already had a number one and who has been on everyone's lips for a few years. She's been the one to watch in the last half-decade, she's been hyped beyond degree, we've been patient for her album to drop, but she's only released two solo singles, with a third right around the corner. She deserves a lot more success than she's been getting, but I feel she's still trying to find her sound, she found it once with "Gecko (Overdrive)" and definitely this song. She is going down the right path, although I am in love with "Losing". Hope to hear more amazing tracks from this girl. This song was written by Marc Kinchen, Rebecca Hill, Tim Powell and Mary Leay.

Directed by Carlos López Estrada, this video is beyond weird, and yet all makes sense if you look deeper. A pure narrative that contrasts the past with the present and how much has changed.

There's two main cars, two main time zones. The first one is set in the past, the girl is wearing a respectable skirt. There's burgers on the side, the entire car and upholstery is old fashioned and there's car dice, who doesn't love car dice?

The second zone features a more modern scene. The couples clothes are more stylish and the car is much more advanced. There's also a CD walkman, which suggests it's still a past time but much more closer to the present day.

The cars bump into each other, and the white girl kisses the black man, proving that interracial relationships aren't a bad thing, and is definitely not uncommon. It's defining perception, although they could've gone one better and made the girls kiss each other, but I guess they can only tackle one thing at a time rather than taking on every perception.

My favourite part of the video has to be seeing the couples kissing in the cars while there's a full profile shot of the skaters, it's well thought out and technically great. Although a few glitches, such as when the black couple fly out of the car, the girl's red top is back on and then it disappears in the next shot. There's a few little inconsistencies, which drops the greatness of this video.

Overall, a well planned out music video that has a much deeper thought behind it all. It's fun, it's sexy, it's imaginative, if a more than a little weird. Weird is what we've come to expect off Becky Hill though.

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Chart Mondays: No Review. Top 10 UK Singles Chart: 22nd April 2016 - 28th April 2016

April 25, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

For a third time overall and a second time consecutively, there is not a song in the top 10 UK singles chart which I can write a music video review for.

Official UK Charts

Here is the official top 10 UK singles chart:

Drake feat. Wizkid & Kyla - One Dance <---- No official music video yet!
Sia - Cheap Thrills <---- No official music video yet!
Mike Posner - I Took A Pill In Ibiza
Fifth Harmony feat. Ty Dolla $ign - Work From Home
Tinie Tempah feat. Zara Larsson - Girls Like
Zara Larsson - Lush Life
Alan Walker - Faded
Lukas Graham - 7 Years
DNCE - Cake By The Ocean
Rihanna feat. Drake - Work

Eli Lieb & Steve Grand - Look Away

April 24, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

The collaboration we have all been waiting for, and it's even better than we expected. Surprisingly their voices mash perfectly giving us amazing harmonies from two powerful singers, but does the music video match up to the epic sound of the song? Eli Lieb and Steve Grand can't look away from the camera giving us piercing stares as they tell us that this is the end.

Eli Lieb is currently working on his second album. He has released a number of singles and a debut album. He has been on my radar since I first came across Steve Grand, however his music never appealed to me, although I am encouraged to support him because he is an out gay singer, and there isn't enough of them in the world. On the other hand, I don't have a keen interest in his music apart from this song because of the collaboration. His music just isn't to my taste, although he might make me like his songs if he releases more like "Lightning In A Bottle". He hasn't achieved world wide popularity, but with a voice like his, he has the chance. The only thing is, he seems emotionless in his music videos, especially in this one, where Steve Grand puts his all into the visual. Steve Grand, Steve Grand, Steve Grand. He became popular because of his country song "All-American Boy", he then had a successful Kickstarter campaign, and now he is apparently working on a second album. I am obsessed with Steve Grand, and if he ever does a gig in the UK, I'll definitely be there! This song was written by Eli Lieb and Steve Grand. Perfect harmonies, amazing emotional words and two soulful voices.

The music video is a pure performance piece, it really puts the stars on the spotlight, every little thing is seen.

Steve Grand is a much better actor than Eli Lieb, as I have previously mentioned. The song is full of emotion, but Eli Lieb looks like a newly painted white brick wall, not a crack not a smudge, just two piercing eyes as he sings to the camera, it's like he has closed his emotions off totally, although his voice tells us different.

Steve Grand is the total opposite, he puts so much emotion into his visual that we can tell he means every single word he is singing, he really can't look away and he is trying to face the truth. Steve Grand seems much more real whereas Eli Lieb is closed off.

The video includes black and white snapshots, this is where a narrative could've been planned, but it never happened, instead we're seeing a series of shots that look like they have potential for a story line, but it just doesn't work. This could easily have been memories of what they had, and certain scenes does show that, but as a collective, it's more of behind-the-scene shots.

Overall, a great emotional song, with only half the emotion purely thanks to Steve Grand. Eli Lieb needs to learn how to get across what he is singing, or it's never going to work, this is probably the main reason why I'm not a fan of his songs. There should've been a narrative, it would've worked really well as snapshots, and even though in some scenes Steve Grand and Eli Lieb look longingly at each other, it just doesn't have the feel of a narrative. This could've been so much better than it is. The performance piece is the main piece, with perfect lighting, it anticipates the narrative, there should be more but there isn't.

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Little Mix Featuring Sean Paul - Hair

April 23, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Previously released as an instant grat single for their album, this song was an obvious choice for their next single. Little Mix are churning out hit after hit, although I'm still not so keen on "Secret Love Song". This one has already became a ratings hit on YouTube and these girls are just going from strength to strength. In a "Wings" style music video, Little Mix have a sleepover as they attempt to get Leigh-Anne's guy, Sean Paul, out of her mind and her hair.

Little Mix are still the only group to with The X Factor here in the UK. They consist of Perrie Edwards, Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Jade Thirlwall. They are one of the biggest girl bands out at the moment, especially in the UK. Fifth Harmony is pretty much their only rivals (until the return of The Saturdays, I hope it's not much of a wait), and they're both on the same record label. This song features guest vocals from Sean Paul, real name Sean Paul Henriques. He helped The Saturdays score their first number one with "What About Us", but this song isn't doing as well for Little Mix, although a top ten is within reach. He has only ever had number ones as a feature, the other being his hit with Blu Cantrell "Breathe". This song was written by Edvard Forre Erfjord, Henrik Michelsen, Iain James, Anita Blay and Camille Purcell.

The video was directed by Director X, and is inspired by the bonus original video that was released to fans who pre-ordered the album. Both videos are slumber party based.

The video starts off with Leigh-Anne Pinnock looking through Instagram, where she discovers that Sean Paul has a new girl. So she calls her girls and they come over to help her get him out of her head, well hair.

The girls clearly had the best time ever doing this music video, what with pizza and cocktails what more do they want? I feel that this is a normal day in the Little Mix house. (Also YouTube commenter Aimee Johnson joked that Fifth Harmony built this house for Little Mix, because of the music video "Work From Home").

I feel Sean Paul adds a little something special to the song and the music video, even though he isn't really needed and his verse is difficult to hear and understand, it allows Leigh-Anne to be the central character for a change and the girls now have a direct link as to why they're trying to get someone out of their hair.

Overall, one of the best slumber party music videos I have seen. Little Mix are happy and acting themselves. Sean Paul appears on Leigh-Anne's phone, making this all seem real, they are definitely relaxed. I don't understand how they get through five pizzas in total though. Relatable, energetic, meaningful, emotional. This is a perfect music video, even if it is a little embarrassing.

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New Release: Jay Status & DJ Sanj - Dhul Gayi

April 22, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Three hours searching for a new release with a music video, last night alone. PLUS the two hours this morning. PLUS the three hours this evening. I have done a total of eight hours, researching this new release, on top of the almost 60 hours of work I've done this week has made me extremely exhausted. But this blog isn't strictly mainstream, and so any officially music video can be reviewed. I was actually worried I wasn't going to find a new release that had a music video. Stepping right out of my comfort zone with this review, hence the extended research, here's some bhangra music for you all. Jay Status and DJ Sanj, once again, collaborate bringing Bhangra to the stage, no sign of DJ Sanj, but Jay Status shows us he's moves in Dhul Gayi.

Jay Status, real name Stephen Singh, actually comes from Coventry in the UK. He is working with DJ Sanj hoping to revive Indian folk and Bhangra songs with a more western sound. Although he is not well known or popular chart wise, he has a lot of twitter followers and facebook fans, proving he is known in Punjabi music. He has released a number of singles, he's most popular being "Katal Kare", as well as a live album. I presume an official album is highly anticipated. DJ Sanj comes from Canada. He is an international success, having worked with a number of artists. He has already made quite a name for himself, and although he is popular, that isn't going to stop him from releasing music. This song was written by Sabhi Chahal.

The music video as a whole has a good budget, with a lot going on as well as extras. The bhangra dancing isn't at all complex, with Jay Status only being able to dance to the chorus of the song.

The woman who plays the love interest is smiling throughout the video, as if she's not taking this seriously at all, this suggests that it's a little fun and it has a comedic side.

There are three different scenes in this video, all of which look like it's set on a stage. The snow scene is picturesquely visual. The water scene purifies the music video, with some fun and games at the start of the scene. The last scene is totally different, it reminds me of summer.

The dancers are smiling through out this music video, it's obvious they not only enjoyed themselves but they had a bit of a laugh. Hardly any of them are taking the dancing seriously, which suggests that it's light hearted. The entire thing is comedic to a degree and that portrays well.

Overall, this is intriguing to say the least. I did expect a comedic side, from the little knowledge I have from the eight hours of extended research I did for this music video, but experiencing it visually makes it more understandable and entertaining.

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Ms. Dynamite - Neva Soft

April 21, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Ms. Dynamite finishes off my entire Birmingham Pride 2016 Special as my Thursday Revisit. I reviewed "Dy-Na-Mi-Tee" earlier this week, and it's nice to return to her to end this Special. This song was released in anticipation of a new album in 2011, but that so-called album was never released. She followed up with 2013 single "Cloud 9", but no new solo music was released there after. She has been trying out different sounds for a few years now, and I think she's finally found her place, fingers crossed a new album is on the way. Ms. Dynamite went down a totally different path with this song, a relaxed performance, she is a professional artist.

Ms. Dynamite, real name Naomi McLean-Daley, has had a successful career thus far. She has had plenty of hits, both as a solo artist and on featured singles. It's rare to come across anyone who doesn't know her name, and yet she hasn't released a new album in over ten years. A comeback must surely be on the horizon. This song was released in 2011, yet didn't take that well compared to her other singles. It's obvious this was the wrong path to go down, and I'm glad she didn't rush to push out this album as it would not have helped her career. I am hoping she sticks to the dance/house genre to which she has had recent hits with various DJ's, as it totally suits her voice.

The music video is a simple performance piece, that not only shows off Ms. Dynamite as a performer, but it also shows what they tried to do with this song, although it does seem they've mixed a reggae song with an R&B song badly and it just doesn't work. It reminds me of when you're listening to the radio, but you haven't tuned it in to the right frequency so that you have two songs competing to be played.

There's not a lot to this music video. Ms. Dynamite is relaxed during the performance, she has so much soul in both her voice and her body. She knows exactly what she is doing, she's been doing it for years, and she is performing this to the best of her ability.

There's a few other scenes that distracts us from her set. The dancers are the main concept that doesn't make sense. The choreography doesn't go with the song, and the dancing scene isn't long enough, it suggests that they knew it didn't work, but included it anyway.

Overall, Ms. Dynamite does what she loves, gives a solid performance that will be perfect on stage. She does her best with what she has been given, but this video isn't anything special, there's not enough going on, with more focus on the song than the video in itself.

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Blonde Featuring Alex Newell - All Cried Out

April 20, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

The final big announcement for Birmingham Pride 2016 was Blonde! This duo has been setting the chart alight in recent years and they are releasing banger after banger. They will be the perfect act on the main stage as they are definitely not short of hit singles. Blonde and Alex Newell collaborate on this awesome track which relinquishes a woman's past love, she's all cried out and is over it now.

Blonde are a house production duo consisting of Jacob Manson and Adam Englefield. They hit worldwide success with "I Loved You" which features Melissa Steel. Continuing on with that success, they have recently released a song with Craig David, "Nothing Like This", which is firing up the UK singles chart. This duo is the one to watch, they're current, they're releasing hit after hit, and I'm sure a number one is going to be their next step. Alex Newell features on this track, he is going much further than we all first thought he would when he appeared on The Glee Project, and later Glee. He has pushed for a music career and boy has he got one, he is making waves on both sides of the Atlantic, more so in the UK. Alex Newell is the name we're all watching out for, a vocal superstar, he is a talent that will reach new heights soon enough. This song hit number four on the UK charts and was written by Lucas Secon, Cass Lowe, Jacob Manson, Adam Englefield, D. McLean and Rachel Keen.

Directed by Can Evgin, and features Louise Monot as the actress in this fully narrative music video.

The story develops as the song continues. It fully relates to the lyrics, as we watch her pack a bag, that contains a photo and a gun. Louise gets alcohol from a store before going to a garage and holding a mechanic hostage whilst stealing a gas cylinder.

The whole experience doesn't make sense especially since the getaway could be easily spotted by any police car. They arrive at a dock to which they get on board a speed boat, and just as I think the storyline has nothing to do with the song, they send the bag on it's floating merry way and shoot at it from a far distance.

This is where the budget was not blown. They spent so much money on everything that leads up to this monumental point, that they clearly didn't have enough to afford a special effects team or an amazing animation team to make the explosion look real. Instead we are left with an obvious fake blast that fails in every aspect. Very unexciting ending, with an incredible anticipated lead-up.

Overall, a perfect narrative video that epically fails at the end, and yet it's still believable regardless. The ending may look unrealistic, yet it answers all our questions and relates it right back to the song.

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Stooshe - Black Heart

April 19, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Stooshe was the last but one artist to be announced for Birmingham Pride 2016 on 8th April, this will be their fourth year performing at Birmingham Pride. They released their most recent single in January called "Lock Down", which failed to chart. They have a new album in the works, which they will no doubt promote at Birmingham Pride. This song was the follow up to "Love Me". Stooshe focuses on the love relationship of one of their band members, Alexandra Buggs, in this video, who is being cheated on, all during a performance set.

Stooshe are a three piece pop group consisting of Alexandra Buggs, Karis Anderson and Courtney Rumbold. They recently had disagreements with their label over their debut album, which is not surprising since they haven't had an exact chart hit; no number ones and this one from 2012 is their biggest hit to date. Hopefully under their new label they'll be able to release the songs they want to release. Thing is with this group is, style wise, they look like three female solo singers collaborating on a track. They need to tighten their style, they need to look like a girl band to consistently get hit after hit. This song charted at number three, and was written by Jo Perry, Shaznay Lewis, Iyiola Babalola and Darren Lewis.

Directed by Matt Stawski, the video is inspired by old-skool girl band music videos, with the 60's style and a simple performance piece.

The narrative coincides with the 60's performance making Alexandra Buggs centre stage as we see her love life unfold right before our eyes and during the entire performance set.

It works well, it relates, and I love how the Alexandra Buggs' bandmates know that her love is a bad one, but she doesn't believe, she is lost in her love for him, until it is revealed right in front of her.

This reminds me of Destiny's Child "Girl", it's a similar music video in a totally different setting.

Overall, great video that relates to an extent, but the song can be interpreted as something much more stronger than the visual of the video shows. I like the idea behind the video, though, and it really proves that Stooshe's ballads are just as strong as their pop tracks.

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Flashrider Featuring Kelli Leigh & Renald - So In Luv

April 18, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

This is one of those rare songs you find on a compilation album, and love at first listen. This happened in my case, and now it's on my phone and gets played now and again as I walk to work. Kelli Leigh has been confirmed for Birmingham Pride 2016, hence why I chose this song, which I really hope she sings, although it's doubtful considering she is the vocalist for many more popular songs. Flashrider flashes up in scenes in this video, but is rarely noticeable as Kelli Leigh and Renald take centre stage in the performance side of the video. The narrative is slow going but interesting.

Flashrider released his first single in 2003, ten years later he followed up with this song, not much is known about him other than him doing some remixes for artists I've never heard of. Kelli Leigh, real name Kelli-Leigh Henry-Davila, has one of the most successful careers as a hidden vocalist. She has provided vocals for Secondcity's "I Wanna Feel", Duke Dumont's "I Got U" and Bingo Players' "Cry (Just A Little)". She has amazing vocals, she just needs the right promotion, and she might be getting there slowly, especially since she'll be on the main stage at Birmingham Pride. Renald is pretty unknown, he has featured on a couple of other tracks, but that is all the info I can find on the guy. He has strong vocals on this track, and I'm surprised he hasn't had a hit single so far. This song was written by Marc Lennard and Judge Flow.

There is a performance piece and a narrative piece to this music video. The narrative is slow going, as I have previously mentioned, it develops slowly and there isn't much going on.

The performance side of things is energetic. Kelli Leigh shines throughout, whether she is in casual clothes, or that beautiful purple dress, she is a vision of beauty. She can move, she can sing, and she looks good, what is she doing hiding amongst the credits of hit songs? Someone get her to centre stage please, because she deserves to be the next big thing. I am hoping she sings this song at Birmingham Pride, although I doubt she will.

Renald doesn't exactly fade into Kelli Leigh's shadow. He is the main vocalist on this track, with great rapping lyrics and a good lead-up to the chorus. His performance is fiery but falls short compared to Kelli Leigh. As for Flashrider, he appears very little and fails to make an impact in any of the short scenes he appears.

The narration links in with the song, it's a clear concept of love at first sight, but they could've had more desirable actors, Nevertheless, they make a cute couple, and it's interesting to watch how they meet. The ending falls flat, it's on the stupid side, and they don't pull it off that well.

Overall, a very catchy song that gets better with every listen, and an accompanying music video that relates, is energetic and is vibrant. The narrative could've expanded the story much more, it's way too basic. The performance is solid though.

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Chart Mondays: Top 10 UK Singles Chart: 15th April 2016 - 21st April 2016

April 18, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

For a second time overall, there is not a song in the top 10 UK singles chart which I can write a music video review for.

Here is the official top 10 UK singles chart:

Official UK Charts

Drake feat. Wizkid & Kyla - One Dance <---- No official music video yet!
Sia - Cheap Thrills <---- No official music video yet!
Mike Posner - I Took A Pill In Ibiza
Fifth Harmony feat. Ty Dolla $ign - Work From Home
Zara Larsson - Lush Life
Lukas Graham - 7 Years
Tinie Tempah feat. Zara Larsson - Girls Like
Alan Walker - Faded
DNCE - Cake By The Ocean
Rihanna feat. Drake - Work

KStewart - Ain't Nobody

April 17, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

This has to be one of the most underrated tracks of all time. It should've been a chart hit, to say the least. Great vocals, amazing track, and incredibly catchy. This girl would've been one to watch, if she could get the promotion she clearly deserves. She has a real shot, and performing on Birmingham Pride 2016's main stage might be the shot she needs. KStewart shows her life in this visual display video; quirky and fun, this girl would be an awesome friend.

KStewart, real name Kate Stewart, first shot to fame last year when she featured on Oliver Helden's "Last All Night (Koala)". Since then she has released a few singles, this one being her highest charting single to date at number 86. Totally the most underrated song I've ever heard, and I'm sure she has more to come. This should've been a hit, but without the right amount of promotion and without radio picking it up, stars like KStewart haven't got a chance. KStewart's career has just started, this is just a little thing she needs to overcome. A few more features, which become hits, and a perfect solo song will have KStewart's name on everyone's lips. She definitely has the voice for it.

Directed by Debbie Scanlan and edited by Liz Adams, this video is full of extremely visual clips and a performance piece at the end which is snapshot scenes at the Nightingale in Birmingham as well as a snapshot scene of the Hippodrome. The stage scene includes drag queen, Anna Lies, who is one of the best drag queens I've seen in Birmingham.

The videos concept is basic, probably low budget with an amazing filter and editing effects that bring KStewart into the limelight.

The video is too simple, on the other hand. It feels more like a promotional video, rather than an actual music video. There's no relation to the song whatsoever, and as a whole it feels completely messy.

Overall, stylish, cool and relaxed, this video is an insight into KStewart, she clearly likes her music, her fashion and performing on stage. She's obviously LGBT+ pro, performing at the Nightingale, as well as including, drag queen, Anna Lies in the music video. She just needs a better music video, a hit song, and radio and music channel play. As well as featuring on a few next big thing tracks.

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Ms. Dynamite - Dy-Na-Mi-Tee

April 16, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Ms. Dynamite has been confirmed for Birmingham Pride 2016. I saw her live last year at Birmingham Pride and she has amazing energy on stage and I will definitely not be missing her this year. She hasn't released any new songs recently, focusing only on being featured on songs, but again, none recently. This is her highest solo charting position, however "Dibby Dibby Sound" has charted higher since. Ms. Dynamite looks super cool in this video, relaxed with performance perfection, she sure knows how to engage the audience, she can dance and look fantastic, what more can we want? She's Ms. Dy-Na-Mi-Tee!

Ms. Dynamite, real name Niomi McLean-Daley, has had a good career so far, she's taking a break from music, in theory she's made her money. All she needs to do is come back strong in the future. She's released some killer tracks, as well as developed a whole new sound for herself, which is definitely current. This is her biggest solo hit, with featured tracks "Lights On" and "Dibby Dibby Sound" outdoing this song on the UK charts. This song got to number five back in 2002. It was written by Leonard Hibbert, Niomi Daley and Salaam Gibbs.

Directed by Jake Nava, the video is a pure performance piece, there are three different scenes, where Ms. Dynamite shines throughout. She has perfect presence and energy that reflects into the audience easily.

The stage performance is full of life, yet it's relaxed and comfortable, she owns the stage and she was born to perform on it.

The denim outfit suits her the most, it has come back into fashion nowadays too. She's comfortable looking sexy and she really doesn't have to try at all.

As for the dance scene, the choreography is also relaxed, simple and easy to pull off, making it relate to the song well and to the beat; however Ms. Dynamite isn't that great of a dancer, and it comes off a little on the clunky side, yet it works and she's got away with it.

Overall, a well packaged music video, that works well with the song and relates. It doesn't have a lot going on, but that's all right. It's simple, nothing spectacular, but Ms. Dynamite performs effortlessly and does the video justice. Engaging on-stage presence and full of energetic vibes, which were well received at Birmingham Pride last year.

This song wasn't performed at Birmingham Pride last year, but I'm hoping she does this year. I remember watching her perform this on Top Of The Pops, I miss that show.

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New Release: LuvBug - Best Is Yet To Come

April 15, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Best Is Yet to Come - LuvBug |

After watching the awesome video for "Resonance", I was expecting a hell of a lot more than this. They've practically mashed a few Basshunter music videos together, namely "Now You're Gone" and "All I Ever Wanted", paired it with Inna's video for "Amazing" as well as Amelia Lily's "California", and then ended it on a cliff-hanger of an ending similar to all of Basshunter's story music videos. Not only does this make it very copycat, but it doesn't relate to the song and the club dancing doesn't go with the song either. LuvBug fails to entertain in this video, although there is a cameo from Marvin Humes. Copying many other videos, two pairs of friends go holidaying in Tenerife and have a little fun.

LuvBug are making waves at the moment. They are a three-piece production group consisting of Marvin Humes (from JLS), the White N3rd and JKAY. They have released two singles before this one, them being "Resonance" and "Revive (Say Something)", both of which have charted in the top 20. I am expecting to see this song chart higher than their previous singles, especially since the song is receiving a lot of radio play, and it is easily stuck in my head right now, it's oh so catchy! The song's vocals come from Scouting For Girls' front man Roy Stride. A quick look on the iTunes chart shows that it's not doing so well... My guess is that it's going to be a climber, because this song is too catchy to not be a chart hit! The song was written by Steve Mac, Camille Purcell and Roy Stride.

Directed by Luke Biggins, the video was set in Tenerife, Canary Islands. It features four actors, who's names I have been searching for for the last hour or so... Shelby Billingham (instagram) is the lead actress, with Luke (or Jake according to his instagram) as the lead actor. Shelby's friend is played by Tilisha Silchenstedt (instagram) and Luke's friend is Joey Aylward (real name Angel-Jose Aylward according to his instagram).

The video isn't anything new, we've seen it a hundred times before, it's a total mash up of videos. They are woven together beautifully, on the other hand. This is a well thought out video, and the filming of which was done to perfection.

However that is all the good comments I can give this video. Let's start off with the whole fact that it doesn't relate to the song and it doesn't go with the song either, it's clear that the clubbers are dancing to a completely different song since they aren't moving to the beat at all.

The actors and actresses are hot, I'm not going to lie, and Shelby Billingham is stunning! Watch out for her guys! Tilisha Silchenstedt is never a main focus, just a background character and never up shows Shelby Billingham. As for the guys, Luke/Jake is cute, although his body suggests differently, and Joey is the one who knows he's all that. But Shelby Billingham screws Luke/Jake over at the very end, is she stupid? I saw it coming, but I didn't expect her to take the lead, was there a reason behind it all? Guess we might find out in part two, if it ever gets released.

I like the whole idea initially, but it should've been paired with a more upbeat song. They should've changed the scenes, made it less like other music videos and gave it something that would've made it stand out. This will just get washed away, as people will much prefer to watch the original videos that this is similar too. LuvBug will be performing at Birmingham Pride 2016, and I cannot wait for this song!

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Liberty X - Jumpin'

April 14, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

This, along with "X" has to be my favourite song from Liberty X, I think it's mainly because I remember seeing this one on the music channels as a child. Today, Liberty X are my Thursday Revisit, after I reviewed their collaboration with Richard X: "Being Nobody". They will be performing at Birmingham Pride 2016, and I believe Kevin Simm will have his own slot on stage, since he recently won The Voice UK. Liberty X is jumping and dancing in this music video, attempting to look sexy, the girls all pull it off, but the stylist failed to give attention to the boys, who aren't looking that great to say the least.

Liberty X are a five piece pop group consisting of Kevin Simm, Tony Lundon, Michelle Heaton, Jessica Taylor and Kelli Young. They had a number of hits in the 00's, after they were the runners-up in Popstars. They are currently back together, but I believe they are only doing a few shows here and there. Kevin Simm, on the other hand, has gone solo and is the most recent winner of The Voice UK. All he needs to do is prove everyone wrong, and release hit after chart hit and become the most well-known The Voice UK winner and maybe contestant; although competition for the latter definitely comes from Becky Hill, who has that title at the moment. This song charted at number six in the UK, and was written by Lucie Silvas, Charlie Russell and Mike Peden.

The music video is relatable to the song, a lot of dance choreography in this, that is performed perfectly, which is what we have come to expect from this band.

Kelli Young is once again taking lead vocals, which is not exactly how groups work nowadays, although she clearly has the stronger voice. Each group member has their own scene in the video, although what they are exactly doing isn't that clear.

The video continues as imagination roles in and the abandoned building is filled with people, Liberty X's costumes are changed in a split second and they release their amazing performance vibes. I am so hoping they have that sort of energy on stage in a month's time at Birmingham Pride.

Energetic, fun, in-sync, there's nothing this group can't do. The video is relatable to the song and it's quite sexy and well thought out. Problems are that it focuses on the girls much more, they could've at least made Kevin and Tony look more desirable. However, a solid performance-based music video.

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Lawson - Taking Over Me

April 13, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

I actually cannot believe that Birmingham Pride 2016 managed to book Lawson! They are one of the big headliners this year, and although they have yet to have a number one, they've had hit after hit after hit. Although I'm not a big fan of them, and I have never bought their music, I have considered it when they released their first single "When She Was Mine" and I thought about it again after the amazingly catchy "Juliet". Lawson has always released great music, they just need a song people would identify them with, as I don't think they've had that sort of hit just yet. Lawson seeks out a motel to perform in front of as well as spend the night with their respective girlfriends or hookups.

Lawson are a four piece band consisting of Andy Brown, Ryan Fletcher, Joel Peat and Adam Pitts. They recently released a new single called "Money", although I didn't review it today, I may return at a later date, probably after Birmingham Pride 2016 where they will undoubtedly perform it, and review the music video. This single is their biggest hit to date, alongside "Juliet", both of which charted at number three. This song was written by Andy Brown and John Shanks.

Directed by Oliver Collins, the video is mainly a performance based video, with snippets of a narrative that fails to keep us entertained.

The narrative is typical, something we've seen plenty of times before. Andy Brown plays the lead as he goes to meet up with the guys at a motel, and perform their song. They are accompanied with four love interests, who they retire with at the end of the night.

The four actresses are Chelsea Turnbo, Melissa Jones, Kat McCleary and Lexi Johnston. Chelsea Turnbo is the only prominent one in the video, as she is in most of the scenes with Andy Brown playing his on-screen girlfriend.

Performance side of things are average, I don't feel any great vibes from this group in this video, it feels too relaxed, as if they've sung this song a million times before and it's nothing new from them. I am really hoping they bring much more energy at Birmingham Pride!

Overall, this video as a whole is very average. There's nothing outstanding, the narrative is typical and we've seen it plenty of times before, I also feel it doesn't relate to the song all that much. The performance side isn't anything exciting, it's quite bland and fails to engage me.

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LuvBug Featuring Talay Riley - Resonanace

April 12, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

LuvBug was the first act announced for Birmingham Pride 2016 on 7th April, along with a few others to complete their lineup, and I literally screamed as I am in love with their new song "Best Is Yet To Come", which is released Friday, and will most likely chart highly the following week, hence why I haven't reviewed it today, since it will either be reviewed as my New Release or as my Chart Mondays not next week but the week after. So instead I chose their first song, which my brother actually discovered it months before I did. LuvBug hit the dancefloors hard with this tune, and the narrative is fully emotional, and shows that bad people come into good people's lives.

LuvBug are a three piece producing group consisting of Marvin Humes, The White N3rd and JKAY. All three are well-known singularly, the former is known from JLS, the second has worked with a lot of different artists and is definitely currently hitting the music scene hard, the latter has been making a few waves on SoundCloud. Collectively, LuvBug is an unstoppable force, with two singles peaking in the UK top 20, this song and "Revive (Say Something)", however their most recent single is definitely their best yet and will undoubtedly chart in the top ten, if not higher. Watch out for "Best Is Yet To Come". Featuring on this track is Talay Riley, mostly known for collaborating with Chipmunk on "Look For Me", he is just attempting to start his career and it's off to a good start. This song was written by Talay Riley, Marvin Humes and Aaron Cowan.

Directed by Rob Chiu, the video is a pure narrative piece. Featuring two girls and a guy, their names are unknown, so if you know who the actors and actresses are, please comment below.

The start shows an argument, a falling out between a couple, it wasn't until I saw the end that I realised they were searching for something.

A couple are vacating amongst beautiful scenery, camping in their camper van, just the two of them, when a hitch hiker is spotted and joins them on their travels. A straight guy's wet dream, surely. These two girls couldn't be any more different, tattoos and hair colour is a clear distinction, and jealousy from the girlfriend is totally expected.

What I don't expect is the ending where the hitch hiker screws over the couple completely.

Such a summer song with a summery video, that definitely enforces stranger danger on children, and proves to us all that people use others no matter what gender. Bad people come into the lives of good people, and it all depends how it is dealt with. Can't wait to see LuvBug on stage at Birmingham Pride 2016.

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Chart Mondays: Alan Walker - Faded

April 11, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Mike Posner is still at number one with "I Took A Pill In Ibiza" and after worrying I will have a repeat of last week and not have a single music video to review, I find Alan Walker's Faded, hiding in at number seven on the UK chart. This song has had great chart progression, although I reckon it may have hit it's peak this week. Derelict, deserted, abandoned and lost, this guy in this Alan Walker video is walking around in this disaster area searching for something that has faded.

Alan Walker is from Norway, but is English as well as Norwegian. He is a EDM producer and has had a worldwide hit with this song. This song is a remastered version of the original "Fade". He was spotted on YouTube, where "Fade", "Spectre" and "Force" were released under NoCopyrightSounds, before Sony Music Sweden signed him up and released this new version, which features uncredited vocals by Iselin Solheim, who is just starting her career. This song was written by Alan Walker, Jesper Borgen, Anders Froen, Gunnar Greve Pettersen.

The music video was directed by Rikkard Häggbom and Tobias Häggbom and was filmed in Estonia amongst some well known derelict buildings.

It is a scene of beauty, something that has been damaged and lost to the world, so empty that you can literally feel and see that life once lived here, but no more.

A guy stands alone, searching for something lost, something faded. The actor in this video is Shahab Salehi.

At the end, he finds the building in the photo he has in his hand, which he then drops to the floor, and slowly removes his mask. Is he upset that the building isn't still the same? Or is he giving up his life as his purpose has been served. We can presume he kept the mask up to keep himself from consuming the possible poisonous air whilst roaming, but now he's found that building, and it's faded.

Overall, deep and meaningful, with stunning shots of derelict buildings lost because of the world we live in. Definitely eerie and quite lonely, the video stands perfectly alone, faded in it's own concept and yet fails to keep us engaged entirely.

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Richard X vs Liberty X - Being Nobody

April 10, 2016 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

This song has been stuck in my head all day, and I'm really hoping that Liberty X perform this song at Birmingham Pride 2016. They were the next act confirmed, the week after. Not only that, but yesterday, Kevin Simm was announced as the winner of The Voice UK. He is currently doing well on the iTunes store, and he very much deserved to win. He has also been given a slot during Birmingham Pride 2016, so I'm excited to see him on stage twice. Liberty X teams up with Richard X on this awesome cover of this song. Sexy, stylish and controversial, Liberty X shines in this video, with Kelly taking the lead. A powerful performance piece that's advanced and slightly before it's time.

Richard X, real name Richard Philips, is a British songwriter and producer. He has his own album released, to which this was the debut single from. He followed it up with a couple more singles, but never continued releasing. He is fairly known in the industry and has worked with some top stars. He could always return with a follow-up album, but whether he will or not is the question. Liberty X was a five-piece group, consisting of Michelle Heaton, Kevin Simm, Kelli Young, Tony Lundon and Jessica Taylor, formed on Popstars, where they were the runner-up. They currently have management, hence why Birmingham Pride, was able to book them, but it looks very doubtful that they'll ever officially reform, they'll just do the one off gigs now and again. This song got to number three in the UK. It samples lyrics from Rufus & Chaka Khan's "Ain't Nobody" and instrumental beats from The Human League's "Being Boiled". It was written by Hawk Wolinski, Philip Oakey, Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh.

As I mentioned before, this video feels ahead of its time, purely because Fredde Le Grand released a similar video called "Put Your Hands Up 4 Detroit", which got to number one. I like the idea of the video, even though three years later it is remade and modernised.

It doesn't really work when they are all together in a room. It's an amazing concept for its time, and they surely put a lot of money into it to make it just right, but it fails to work as a whole, and it's slightly on the messy side, but that could be due to the idea being put into motion in 2003, they should've done it years later. Fedde Le Grand pulls it off perfectly three years later with "Put Your Hands Up 4 Detroit", going to show how technology has advanced in that short amount of time.

It also fails to relate to the song, but I'm going to give it an average rating because it's a great concept that hasn't been done before, only copied afterwards. It makes Liberty X stand out more, although I'm not too keen on Kelli taking the lead in the song as well as most of the lyrics and vocals.

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