Zara Larsson is the person who sung with MNEK on that song called "Never Forget You". She is a big hit in Sweden, and to no surprise, I have become a fan of her music, thanks to this song, which is so catchy. She released this in June 2015, in Sweden, but the song got released this week on iTunes here in the UK, as well as other music download sites such as Amazon, HMV and 7digital, regardless to what iTunes release date suggests. Zara Larsson does her thing in front of a green screen, allowing the viewers to see her personality and relaxing performance.
Zara Larsson is only 18, and has already had number one singles around the world, we officially have a new star! Perfect voice with a perfect style and image, this girl is going to go far. Sweden is really pulling out the stops, winning Eurovision with worthy songs, hitting charts globally with their singers, they are seriously a country we have got to keep our eyes on, because they are making stars. Lush Life was written by Emanuel Fredrik Abrahamsson, Christoph Bauss, Iman Hullén, Markus Reza Sepehrmanesh, Linnea Anna Soedal and Fridolin Walcher. It has charted globally, hitting number one in Sweden, as well as the top 10 in Belgium, Denmark, Israel, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Finland, Slovakia, Australia and the Czech Republic. This is a massive hit, and I hope will climb the UK charts, because it deserves to, but the music channels won't promote it that much as this video isn't as great as the song. Fingers crossed this climbs, but I doubt it will. I will be buying the song myself after I've posted this review.
Directed by Måns Nyman, the video fails to keep us engaged, there's no choreography and there is a lot of visual, yet not as creative as it could have been.
The reason why this video doesn't fall flat, totally, is because of Zara Larsson. She really does love this song, and it really shows. She performs to us, to the best of her ability, because she knows that this is all they've got for the video. She dances as if there were choreography made for her, enough to look like she made it up, but she pulls it off effortlessly, and it totally works, you go girl!
I hate the visuals behind her at times, as well as the black and white colourisation. We do not need it, it just ruins the music video, although, at times, it is paired with the song lyrics.
The most engaging part is the start, when she pulls her necklace off and flings it behind her. It signifies the end of a relationship, she's finally over it, and she now has a new crush. A potential start to a narrative that never comes.
Overall, it's a perfect song, definitely a worldwide hit, it just needs more radio play here in the UK, it worked for Shawn Mendes with "Stitches". As for the video, this is where Shawn Mendes' "Stitches" does well as the music channels are loving the video, this one isn't one people would go out of their way to watch over and over again. This doesn't quite fall flat, but the low-budget has totally made this awful, and the money spent wasn't well-spent at all, in my opinion, although Zara Larsson does her best to shine throughout.
Nero have come a long way from when they first started, and yet I still feel that they're trailing behind. They have had one or two hits here in the UK, "Promises" was definitely massive for it's time, with their song "Guilt" just as popular, and yet they've died down since and didn't really push themselves when they were at the top of the charts. This isn't their fault and many other bands and singers have followed both before and after them. But this is where the charts are at, and it just takes one song, as usual, to become a worldwide hit. "Promises" may have been their song, but many will follow if they keep at it. Nero transports itself into the anime world, a narrative and a performance piece set in a fictional graphic story.
Nero is a three-piece band consisting of Daniel Stephens, Joseph Ray and Alana Watson. They are from the UK, and have released a string of singles from their first album with "Promises" and "Guilt" being their biggest hits, and "Me & You" charting just outside the top 10. Lately, their singles from their second album have not charted so well. As for the album overall, it too underperformed. This can't be the end of Nero, definitely not. This is a band who doesn't give up, so they will definitely come back fighting.
This was directed by Markus Lundqvist and co-directed by Daniel Stephens. The animation was done by Red Knuckles, who have actually done quite a few things, including the animation for Britain's Got Talent 2015 commercial. This studio might just do some more in the future, that we will all be aware of.
This one is done good, you can feel for each of the characters. The story line is interesting. The guy and the girl wants to run away together, into the night, but they need money to do so. So, he kind of gets some drugs and delivers them to some big fat crazy guy, who owns a club called Satisfy (possibly a connection with their song "Satisfy" which they released as the first single from their second album), who then gives our main character a case with no money in.
He's been made a fool of, and gets shot at, luckily missing every bullet, as well as surviving a grenade, that practically blew up in his face. He calls his girl, who gets upset and seeks out to find him. Then they have a street race together for fun.
As for the performance side of things, Nero looks good as anime characters, and Alana is pulling of the swish moves, as I call it. Which we definitely see a lot of, but no more so than in Caramell's "Caramelldansen"/"Caramelldancing".
This isn't the only link, Britney Spears famously became an animated character in "Break The Ice". Which this video definitely reminds me of.
However there is an error, as one YouTuber pointed out... There are six vials in the first clip, when the case is first opened, but when the robot takes two out for the evil monster, there is only five. Continuity errors are extremely important, even if this is anime. A simple vial cannot go missing!
Overall, great song and a perfect relatable music video. One that I will remember but still not quite understand, there's no background on this thing, where did the vials come from? How did our main character get involved in this? Why is it so important? And where did vial number six disappear to? The questions are left unanswered, and that is the way it's supposed to be.
I'm kind of cheating once again, this was released on 13th November on iTunes, it was pushed forward due to the song appearing on compilation album Now 92. However on Amazon, the EP is released this week, which on iTunes is released the week after. All confusing and not released as originally planned, but just like last week, I've had difficulty finding a new release, so technically this is a new release. KSI and JME are asking if you can keep up, in this catchy song with plenty to sing to, and a good relatable video to match!
KSI, real name Olajide "JJ" Olatunji, is a YouTuber, rapper, comedian and a bunch of other things too, he's a great inspiration to prove to people that you can be whatever you want to be. He has had chart hits, and I imagine his future songs will keep appearing on the chart, as they are unique and extremely popular. In this song, he has collaborated with JME, real name Jamie Adenuga, who is also making quite the name for himself, appearing on the charts multiple times, and his most recent album hitting at number 12. This is where the music is at, and this new wave for grime music is going to hit the charts hard!
The music video was directed by Jack Delaney. It's a good start, I love the three girls, with the one saying about YouTubers and asking the repeated line "all we really want to know is can you keep up?" They're the stereotypical girls who get confused at the simplest thing, and it works so well here. I love how they appear once again to introduce JME.
The rapping from KSI and JME are on point, although I am not keen on the studio recording bit, it wavers the song and although a good idea, they should've stuck to the original recording, as the studio recording is so much quieter.
KSI is surely set to push the competition to the side, with the momentum he is going, I definitely wouldn't be surprised if he has a hit that settles in the top 10 of the UK chart soon, if he pushes himself, I know he can do it, just hearing this song alone proves it. Watch out for both KSI and JME! Can you keep up?
I have kind of cheated with this. Like seriously, who releases a song on Christmas Day? No one, clearly. So, after a lot of searching, I've found out that a remix of Foxes' Amazing is released on Christmas Day which is a Cahill Club Mix, which can be bought here. Since I cannot find any other songs for my new release, I have chosen this music video. Foxes is probably one of the most underrated singers I know. She is getting ready to release her second studio album, and this is the third single from that album. Foxes goes on a road trip and has an amazing time with her friends in this video, showing that all you need is your best friends in your life.
Foxes, real name Louisa Allen, is one of those singers who are totally unique, usually at first listen her songs aren't instant hits, but they're always one of those songs that gain momentum because they become ever so catchy after hearing them a few times. As previously stated, she is definitely underrated. I think she's quirky in a good way, and I will always support her music because she's vocally talented and means every word she sings. This song is written by Louisa Rose Allen, Martin Brammer, Jonny Lattimer and James Newman. Personal and emotional in a perfect pop song, that should've been a hit. The video isn't as great.
Directed by Johny Mourgue, the music video shows Foxes and two of her friends going on a road trip. As per usual, the normal hassles appear, such as getting lost, the map not being any help at all, and the car breaking down, well in this case a minivan.
Foxes cuts her lusciously long hair into a bob in this video, it's a new her, a new style and new direction for her music, but it's still her, and after a while I started to like her hair, just like I started to like this song.
I love the idea behind this, and the old style clips from the home video, shows that she is having a great time and doesn't need a man beside her, even though she is doing the typical things to get over a break-up, eating both ice cream and cake is a sure winner in my books.
The ending is interesting, and also relates to where she is, many people believe she should be charting and her singles are definitely worth better chart placements than what they are getting, however the ending suggests that this album is all about releasing music for her fans, giving them something, almost like a present, to say thank you for being with her. The ending replicates that perfectly, Foxes is just having a great time at the moment, and she'll chart when she needs to, because that amazing voice isn't going to disappear.
Well look who is back, bringing the festive cheer... Well technically they never went away, they've still been releasing music, yet they haven't charted since 2013, and even then it wasn't inside the top 40... So in theory, they are back, but probably not back to the UK singles charts, since this isn't doing particularly well on the iTunes chart. Although I don't know why as I'm loving this song, it's ever so catchy. This becomes my New Release this week under my Christmas Special 2015. Scouting For Girls show us what Christmas is all about in 2015, with this amazing, laid back, relaxing type of music video.
Scouting For Girls are making their debut on my blog today, surprisingly. They are a three piece band consisting of Roy Stride, Greg Churchouse and Pete Ellard. They have had a string of hits including "She's So Lovely", "Elvis Ain't Dead", "Heartbeat", "Love How It Hurts" and number one single "This Ain't A Love Song". Despite that, they have been dropping off the radar on the singles chart here in the UK, however their albums are consistently doing well on the albums chart, despite people unaware of new singles. The song is worthy of being in the UK chart, it's instantly catchy and I was singing the lyrics before I even knew them. This song needs a lot more exposure, if it's got any chance of charting on Friday.
The video, directed by Damien Reeves, is gentle to say the least. Filmed in Marlborough, the whole scene has the feel of Christmas.
This band doesn't need any gimmicks, no reindeer, no snow, just a simple town celebrating Christmas. This is usually what happens when people go to city centres, there is no snow or reindeer. It captures the viewers sense of Christmas, and you could just imagine being there.
A performance piece is set into this literal narrative piece. The crowd seems to be enjoying their stage presence, and their connection as they walk down the road is very clear. This is a band that you definitely wouldn't be disappointed to see live, especially outside in a winter's air.
Overall, a great video, that relates perfectly, almost too perfectly, taking certain sentences of the lyrics and creating a scene because of what has been sung, and then paired them together. Too literal, but in a sweet Christmas kind of way, one that isn't as bad as I'm making it out to be. Definitely a catchy Christmas song, that has definitely became one of my top Christmas songs, and a video I wouldn't mind seeing again and again, well done on capturing the Christmas spirit in a music video.
NOW this is a TUNE! First time hearing it, and first time watching this music video, and it's a HIT! But will it chart? That is the question, according to iTunes it's not looking so well. Could this be due to not enough exposure and promotion? A catchy chorus performed beautifully by Anne-Marie, a Wretch 32 song that is worth listening to over and over again, PRGRSHN makes the track perfect, and a brilliant video to boot, that should be shown everywhere to stop people stereotyping others because of their race and the way they look.
Wretch 32, real name Jermaine Sinclair, has had hit after hit here in the UK, he got to number one with "Don't Go" which features Josh Kumra, as well as number two with "Unorthodox" which features Ed Sheeran. He has shown versatility with this song, and having it next to his other most recent singles on his new album will definitely make him shine. Anne-Marie provides the vocals for the chorus, she is one to watch for 2016, having toured with the likes of Rudimental, she is ready to hit the world. This collaboration should be getting her name out there, but if it charts low, she'll have a lot of work to do to get a charting hit. Ed Sheeran is apparently a fan of her. As for PRGRSHN, real name Ras Kassa Alexander, he has quite a lot of followers on his soundcloud account, he's a producer and he's worked with Rudimental and Josh Record, again he is another new star, is he one to watch? With a song like this? Quite possibly. This song was co-written with Emeli Sandé. I could so imagine her vocals on this, however Anne-Marie was definitely the better choice, although I would like to hear an Emeli Sandé version, who's vocals would definitely have made sure this song charted. Hopefully the song will advance on iTunes soon and get a good charting position as it clearly deserves it.
I love this video, I love everything about it. I love how it's misleading in the first few scenes, making the viewer stereotype the people in it, it's awful how we can just presume something like this without even thinking it through. Anne-Marie shines, she has a super sexy look, and she is a vision, what a way to make an impact, she has definitely gained a lot more fans thanks to this video. Wretch 32, doesn't fade into the background either, and doesn't let Anne-Marie be the spotlight. Such a perfect collaboration.
The narrative is amazing, it tricks viewers into thinking something bad is either happening or about to happen. I feel some scenes were cut out, and I don't get the man and the child bit. I love the fact that the guy is running with a bag and a police woman is running after him, later we find out he was late for his graduation, hence why he's trying to get there on time, the policewoman is his lover. Then there's the kids with the old woman, it's the cutest, most adorable scene that I fell in love with from the first viewing, it makes me question how many kids actually would do such a thing.
This song should be a charting hit, but it doesn't look like this will happen. The video is amazing, brilliant and perfect. It's surprising and fits with the song effortlessly, these guys are misunderstood by many people, including the viewers watching, without a full story we normally fill in the blanks; this video tells us how wrong we can be, and it's a video I'll keep on remembering. Watch out for Anne-Marie, she's a star in the making!
Sigala is on form lately isn't he? Number one in the UK with "Easy Love" and now he's follow-up seems to be racking up the charts. This has pretty much come out of the blue, earlier today I was listening to it and I looked at it's iTunes position and it wasn't looking good, a summer club anthem released in winter... Not something you would expect. Then tonight I saw it in the top 10, like where has this come from? Catchy and definitely so much better than "Easy Love", this song is a summer tune to help us escape this cold winter, Sigala with Sweet Lovin' spreads the sun and the fun.
Sigala, real name Bruce Fielder, is a British DJ and has only released the two singles I have mentioned. He has definitely hit the UK by storm, but will he continue his success, or just dwindle away? Guess that's something we'll have to wait and see, but with songs like this, he will be around for some time, getting those all important chart numbers.
The music video is unsurprisingly similar to "Easy Love", which, at first, made me think it was too similar, but after second watch I kind of started to enjoy it, yet it isn't something new, and has been done plenty of times before. The roller skater is Candice Heiden, who have previously been in Moby's "The Perfect Life" and Chet Faker's "Gold".
The video reminds me of a cross between DJ Fresh's "Louder" and David Guetta Vs. The Egg's "Love Don't Let Me Go (Walking Away)", it's like they've been fused together yet not outstanding us, and more like failing to entertain.
Nothing that interests me, I do think it kind of relates to the song, her sweet loving sending vibes out to everyone she passes. Everyone has one of those days, where they're having such a good day and no one can bring you down, and then you don't even realise that you've made everyone's day automatically. Energy is always sent out in vibes, and sweet loving vibes can be sent all the time.
The UK hates a whiner, let's be honest, and Sandi Thom, real name Alexandria Thom, has hit the headlines with a video she posted on FaceBook about how upset she is that Radio 2 decided not to play this song. She claims the pop song has everything they needed. What's surprising is that she's chasing an old fashioned way of getting music out to the public, whereas her only number one single got to the top of the charts thanks to the internet. Radio has fought off many technological advances and is still the main game changer when it comes to chart hits. Sandi Thom may have made a 360 degrees music video, and a pop song that is worthy of radio play, but it's definitely not a stunner or extremely catchy, and the video follows suit failing to entertain and make us watch.
Sandi Thom's career is spiralling down and down, unable to gain the sales she needs. I remember buying "I Wish I Was A Punk Rocker (With Flowers In My Hair)". An extremely catchy tune, that even when heard now, we still sing-a-long to. This is what she is missing, she needs a song that's catchy for this century. Earthquake fails because it feels like an old song, one you probably would've played ten years ago.
Annoyingly the video also seems ten years old too. Directed by Gev Miron, Ian Fisher and Sandi Thom. The latter wrote on the YouTube description that it's "shot using Go Pro cameras and the latest 360 technology the video is designed to be interactive and allows the viewer to navigate around the room using their curser or tilting their mobile device" (Sic).
So the video contains four characters all played by Sandi Thom. I'm going to name each one of them and review them that way. Number one is Confident. Moving to the right is number two Dancer. Number three I'm going to name Blondey and number four is going to be called Punk Rocker.
Right... Confident is sassy. But mainly performs the song sitting in a chair, in this roof room. She is currently pregnant, and she is glowing, you can tell. And I wish her the best for her baby, which is due in March 2016.
Dancer has her own little wooden stage to perform on. Disappointingly, she is wearing the same dress and shoes. Tied up her hair and changed jackets, not my idea of a different character, more like trying to cheat. There's no choreographed dance routine, just a lot of simple moves anyone can pull off, failing to entice the audience into watching her.
Blondey is also wearing the same dress and shoes. Instead Sandi Thom adorns a blonde wig and a cream coloured jacket. This is more flowy arms and attempt at Arabic dance moves which do not relate to the song at all, do not include dance moves that relate to a certain culture in a song that doesn't, simple. Unless you plan on doing what Inna did for "Yalla" by singing in Arabic.
Punk Rocker also dons the same dress and shoes. This time she has a purple jacket on and her hair has been dyed. This is the most passion we get from Sandi Thom. Without the tricks, without the 360 technology I would've preferred this video to be just us and Punk Rocker, because that is who she is, she's being real and emotional here, she truly is singing the song, believing every word. But the other characters knock this video right down.
Overall I have to applaud Sandi Thom for trying to make this video current, yet it totally fails. YouTube, for starters, can't handle the video that well, and therefore knocks the song from the singing characters, so either that is the fault of the person who tried to line up her lip-syncing to the audio, or it's because the video is using 360 technology. This is a definite no-no when it comes to music videos. Plus the style looks totally old school. The roof has boxes everywhere and I feel like I'm watching some poorly low budgeted 80's music video. It's just completely awful. Sandi Thom's career is spiralling right down, and there is no rope for her to catch, no ledge to grip on to, and her parachute is not working either. Can she ever come back from this. Probably not.
Nathan Sykes has done something no one else has ever done! First time watching this and tears roll down my cheeks. This video has officially made me cry. A real Romeo and Juliet feel to this video combined with The Notebook, a truly amazing storyline full of love, devotion and such a sweet ending with an emotional song to boot.
Nathan Sykes is one fifth of boy band, The Wanted, who are currently on hiatus. Therefore Nathan Sykes is making a career for himself as a solo artist. His debut single "Kiss Me Quick" hit number 14 on the UK chart, however this follow up single has been played on the radio more often and has got a lot of people talking, and now with a video like this, it's bound to get heaps more attention. The song sounds more like John Legend than Nathan Sykes, but kudos to him for creating an emotional ballad that's bound to be a hit.
Directed by Frank Borin, the narrative side of the video is amazing, I love the old woman, painting scenes in which we get to see, like they're her memories. Going back into the past and watching their dates and how they met. A few errors bring questions up such as the film they see which was released in 2015, along with the smart phone he uses to get her number... Was that on purpose? Suggesting the old woman's memory isn't as accurate?
The young woman is played by MaeMae Renfrow, and they build an amazing on screen relationship, one you can't help but wish you had. As for the performance side of things, Nathan Sykes plays the piano well, and sings well, however there isn't much performance that can happen when one is sat behind a piano. Some people can pull it off such as Avril Lavigne in "Let It Go". Nathan Sykes, take notes.
But who cares about his performance behind the piano? When we have him taking his shirt off in a raunchy scene? This music video has everything I want and more for a song that is full with passion. Beautiful song, perfect video, and teardrops rolling down my cheeks. Nathan Sykes and Frank Borin, what have you done to me and everybody else?
Missy Elliott is BACK! She has just proved how amazing she is. It's been 15 years since she last released a studio album, She has proven that there's still a spot for her in the music industry with where this song has already placed in the iTunes charts. She will be getting international chart numbers soon, and cementing herself back into the rap genre, but she's never truly left.
Missy Elliott, real name Melissa Elliott, has been working on production work since her last album, a much needed break. Yet this comeback is stylish, perfect and on point, I'm like wow, you go girl! Pharrell Williams is a nice addition to the song, although his appearance doesn't impress me in the slightest.
Directed by Dave Meyers with a surprising come back video, something definitely to get people talking... But lets start off with the marionette puppets, Pharrell Williams clearly was not available for the day and yet they have made it work so good, it has totally got people talking about the music video and not only that it is done so well that you can tell a lot of effort and time has gone into the marionette puppets alone to get them just right, and it works. However, stars that were able to make the video included Les Twins and Sharaya J.
Choreography in the video is also on point, can't have it any other way, and Missy Elliott take centre stage, I just can't believe she's 44 and moving like that, she looks classy, edgy and full of sass, which is exactly what we like to see.
I love this video, although I'm ashamed at them having to resort to marionette puppets because Pharrell Williams wasn't in the video. However, stylish, out there, and definitely a video to remember, with a catchy song to boot. Missy Elliott is finally back, and hitting those chart numbers all over again, I am expecting a number one on the cards soon.
GWEN STEFANI is back with her first single in the UK in seven years, and what a catchy song, better yet an uncomfortable awkward video. Full of passion and emotion, you can't help but feel for her. I want to jump through my computer screen and hug her until she feels better. Quite the comeback in the UK, but will it chart?
Gwen Stefani is the lead vocalist of band No Doubt, who seem to be on a hiatus as she continues to follow her solo success. She's hit the UK big in the past, and we are used to her outrageousness. It's not as sexualised as other stars are now, but we usually expect something quirky from her, and we can't help but love her for that.
However this video flips what we expect. Directed by Sophie Muller, the video displays a stripped back version of Gwen Stefani, putting her entire emotions into the song, and singing a couple of lines.
Something so easy and low-budget comes across perfectly, it's exactly what is missing from music channels and yet it's not something someone wants to watch again and again. It's clever.
Difficult to rate, as it will receive mixed views. I personally think it's great, and yet even I don't want to watch it over and over again. Awkward, uncomfortable, and sensitive, yet clever, amazing and surprising.
Why are so many artists releasing singles without music videos? Music videos circulating on music channels, is promotion, and yet many this week have released relying on radio play and their fans, such as One Direction with "Perfect", Diplo & Sleepy Tom with "Be Right There" and Ben Haenow Featuring Kelly Clarkson with "Second Hand Heart". Then there's Taylor Swift who has released a remix version of "Wildest Dreams" instead of an official single. So here I am stuck with Alesha Dixon's new one. Powerful and entertaining, Alesha Dixon shows us what Britain's Got Talent has shown her: failure and how to get buzzed.
Alesha Dixon was one third of Mis-Teeq. She soon launched her solo career, and became notable for single "The Boy Does Nothing". Although her highest charting position is with "Breathe Slow". She has only recently released her fourth album, which this is her second single, after "The Way We Are". These two singles, she has released, are unable to chart in the UK, at her own request. She didn't want to define her album by the singles she releases. Yet I guess this is the reason why the album charted at 81. Is she just a failed artist now? She's clearly not making the cut is she?
The song is written by Alesha Dixon, Alex James and Harry Sommerdahl. Catchy and energetic, I had it stuck in my head for all of three minutes, at which point I played Little Mix's new release "Weird People", which I'm currently in love with!
Alesha Dixon is known for her dancing, she won Strictly Come Dancing, which kick-started her comeback, and yet where is the dancing in this bubbly song? And did she really do the robot? Are we sure this is a 2015 video right? It seems so dated.
Donning killer heels, and amazing fashion statements, you can see where the budget for this video has been blown, and yet it hasn't helped at all, compared to Inna's "Bop Bop". I'm bored, and uninterested in what she is wearing. Not only does she not look good, but she looks confused as to what she should be wearing, how to wear it and who she is as a person. Does this reflect in her music? Is she at her standstill where she's just releasing music because she wants to, and not taking a key interest in what she's releasing. She needs another hit, which charts high. Otherwise, she's not going to do as well as she thinks she should.
HaHaHa Production collaborates with Global Records to make this amazing Romanian duet which has got me reminiscing of Morandi Featuring Inna "Summer In December". These songs are in no way similar, even though fans of Inna and Alexandra Stan seem to make out there is some sort of competition, but there really is not. Maybe it's too late for Romanian music to make an impact in the western world, what with all these amazing songs sifting under the radar, but if it's happened once, it can happen again. Inna is on top form, and Alexandra Stan is not far behind, both girls are leading the way, proving you can be successful, They both deserve to chart here in the western world and it's such a shame they aren't. This is another hit that just fails to chart.
Dorian, real name Dorian Micu, is an up and coming Romanian artist, and have released a fair few singles. Very active on social media, he will soon be charting in his own country, I foresee, he is talented to say the least, and to bag Alexandra Stan, as well, to feature is an honour. She has been on top form since the whole fiasco with her manager/ex-boyfriend, and her song "Thanks For Leaving" pushed that problem out of her life. Although she hasn't come into prominence recently, her collaboration with Inna & Daddy Yankee on "We Wanna" definitely hasn't gone amiss. I wouldn't be surprised if her third album does well worldwide, let's just hope we don't wait too long. Motive, written by Andrei Mihai, Dorian Micu and Elena Morosanu, is in their native tongue, and is beautifully and emotionally sung. It is about not knowing how you feel in a relationship and maybe it is too late to get past the hurt and confusion.
The video, directed by Ionuț Trandafir, reflects the song well. Clearly Dorian and Alexandra Stan have had an argument and he's stormed out, into his car and is driving away, whilst Alexandra Stan throws a cushion.
It's clear they both don't know what to do. She doesn't run after him, so maybe she hasn't fallen too hard for him, and he is driving whilst rapping.
I think Alexandra Stan looks a bit like Davina McCall only with blonde hair, when she's on the bed, however Alexandra Stan has had a new hair cut which looks good. Her performance piece in front of the concrete makes me desperate to see her live, so effortless in her moves with so much feeling. She can definitely sing, and I hope I get to see her live in the future.
She made this song, let's be honest, without her vocals this wouldn't have worked out that good. The video fails to be memorable and exciting, relying on both artists presence and demeanour, as well as lacking visually, however the narrative succeeds, if only slightly.
As soon as I heard this track was released this week, I HAD to review this music video. I came across it on YouTube after searching for Birdy's "Wings" song, and I saw the colourful thumbnail and knew this was going to be on my blog at one point. Colourful and on point the video shows the passion that isn't displayed in a narrative.
RHODES, real name David Rhodes, has appeared out of no where, amongst others who seem popular from London Grammar to Rufus Wainwright, from Laura Marling to Daughter, this style of music is really making an impact on the charts, and this collaboration is definitely going to further his career. Birdy, real name Jasmine van der Bogaerde has had a string of hits in the UK, mostly known for "Skinny Love" and most recently "Wings", she has yet to get a top five hit, although with a voice like hers, and the right collaboration or song, she will, most definitely, hit the top spot. At the moment she has yet to make the impact that we're all expecting from her.
Directed by Sing J. Lee, the video engages with the colourful forest and the use of the northern/southern lights used in the sky. I like the camera work on it, if only there were a forest like that, which were sunny, clearly it's cold with what they are wearing.
Birdy fails to perform, she looks like she's just singing and uncomfortably makes you wonder if you want to see her live, he vocal range is phenomenal, but I want more from her, especially in a music video.
Surprisingly RHODES stands out compared, and definitely becomes the star of the video. His voice travels across well, but it's his performance piece that makes you realise he means what he is singing.
Overall, great use of colour, I want to visit this forest, if only it was real. RHODES outshines Birdy, and yet there's just something completely lacking in the video on the whole.
Been ill for a week, hence why I haven't blogged, but I'm back now, with this surprising collaboration. Is this Nick Jonas' attempt at getting into rap and hip hop? Because it is a complete fail. Who is Sage the Gemini anyway? A typical music video featuring a lot of girls in a forest similar to Nicki Minaj's "Anaconda", with two singers who are ecstatic to be surrounded by all these women, only Nick Jonas looks more focused on singing and performing, whereas Sage the Gemini looks obsessed with the girls in the video. Reminds me a lot of Justin Timberlake's collaborations.
The Jonas Brothers broke up in 2013, and Nick Jonas has gone solo. His recent singles have done well in the UK. But this one isn't making an impact on the iTunes chart all that much. Could it be due to the shoddy release date? Amazon, HMV and 7digital released it three weeks ago, yet on iTunes it was pushed back until now. I surely haven't heard it on the radio, although it is kind of catchy.
Sage the Gemini, real name Dominic Woods, has had an all right career in the US. He has previously charted all over the world in a collaboration with Flo Rida and Lookas on the track "G.D.F.R.", but it'll be interesting if he has another hit.
Here is another typical music video, where girls are parading around wearing very little, we've seen this hundreds of times in rap and hip hop music videos, and yet a music video has failed to stand out above the rest.
Even the forest isn't a new thing as Nicki Minaj has done it before. Is there anything original about this video? Not really, and that is what really disappoints me as the song is on the catchy side.
Rachel Platten is one hell of a fighter, she is an inspiration to us all, she tells us that we should always go after our dreams and we will get to where we want to be. The video proves this perfectly and it is her fight song, and this is one girl who won't be disappearing without a good brawl.
I struggled choosing a video today, purely because JoJo has released a tringle of singles, three singles in one, yet there's no music videos for them, and although they are amazing, and you should so go and buy them, I'm unable to review them until there's a video. So instead I chose Rachel Platten's Fight Song which is being played often on the radio, and will probably chart extremely well this week.
Rachel Platten has released two albums, one in 2003 and one in 2011, none of which made much of an impact, yet her songs have featured in some tv series. Now after a lot of hard work, she's proven she can make it. This song was written by Dave Bassett and Rachel Platten, the song encouraged her to believe in herself and it incites us all to do the same, it's uplifting and inspirational, I just believe every word as it is not only what I need to hear myself, but because she means every word she sings.
The music video was directed by James Lees. It directly links in with what Rachel Platten is singing, and that is exactly what I expected.
A lot of artists gig before coming well known, and it is a common story that only a few people will turn up to their first few gigs, and that is definitely shown at the start, along with the pain Rachel Platten is feeling at not quite making it in the music industry.
Then she just goes for it, hops in the car and sees where it leads. Slightly similar to Tim Berg's "Seek Bromance" This is a little unexpected as she's out having fun and doing what she wants, however letting it all go and starting afresh doesn't always work out for people, as we know from other videos. Could they have possibly shown that hard work gets you where you want in life?
Overall a great song, a well linked music video, and definitely something inspirational and memorable. I wish Rachel Platten the best on this week's chart, I bet it's going to do well.
Critic Jonni is back! Kicking it off with this awesome New Release... Which is now on Fridays, thanks to New Music Fridays. Which has not only changed the day of the UK music chart, but has also changed my entire blog. This also means that Revisit Sundays are no longer a thing, and instead revisits are done on Thursdays. So are we ready for the weekend?
Well Only The Young are with their release. This music video is not at all a surprise, it's cheerful and generic. A typical ex-X Factor first music video, and doesn't make me interested in watching it again, although I give it kudos for relating to the song.
Only The Young are a four piece band consisting of Mikey Bromley, Parisa Tarjomani, Betsy-Blue English and Charlie George. They were on the 11th series of The X Factor, which was won by Ben Haenow with Fleur East and Andrea Faustini coming second and third respectively. Stereo Kicks came in fifth place and released one single before breaking up. Jake Quickenden has an independent release coming up soon after finishing ninth. Only The Young came seventh overall, and I hope their career continues past this debut single.
The song is so catchy, it gets stuck in my head after first listen. Yet I feel it hasn't got the spark that first interested me in this band. The big question is whether it will chart or not. I hope it does as I can see this band going a lot further than this one single, but a quick glance at the iTunes chart reveals that this single hasn't hit the top 40 yet. However there's still time. I haven't heard it on the radio either, and radio play is very important when it comes to the chart. Fingers crossed for these guys.
The music video relates to the song well. And I love the black and white photo shoot scenes, it gives the music video something new and interests the viewer. I have to admit, I don't like Charlie's hair curled, though, it doesn't suit him.
Other good parts is that two people get married in a fake wedding, and Betsy-Blue and Parisa do heart hands in the photo scenes.
Overall a good music video with a very catchy song, which I hope charts next Friday. Yet a typical first music video from an ex-X Factor group, and I hope their follow-up music video is more personal and exciting.
So last week was a disaster, my promise of posting a review every day of the week, failed. And even though I did plan on catching it up. I failed to find the motivation to do it. But this week, I will not be defeated and I shall review every day. And our new release for this week is currently sitting at the top spot of the UK iTunes Chart. This is Lorde, with "Royals".
Lorde, real name Ella Yelich-O'Connor, is an aspiring new artist who shows a lot of promise in her vocals, especially since she's only 16. But will she become a one hit wonder, or will she stand the test of time? We shall see, but I fear for the former. Lorde is from New Zealand, and this is her debut single, which has pummelled her into international fame, gaining the top spot in America. She has released two consecutive singles which are "Tennis Court" and "Team", the former has already charted at 197 on the UK chart. The singles have charted well in her home country but internationally they have faired much worse than her first single. Is she a one-trick pony? I think so, but I sure hope she can prove me wrong.
"Royals" was written by Ella Yelich-O'Connor and Joel Little. The song is simple but very catchy, and I can understand why it is an international hit. There were a few inspirations for the song, one of which was seeing a picture in the 'National Geographic' magazine. I just hope this isn't going to be her only hit, internationally; she has much more to give to this world.
There is, apparently, two versions of this video. The normal one and the US version. I am reviewing the US version, since that is the one that appears on the music channels here in the UK. There isn't much difference apart from more visuals of Lorde in the US version.
The music video has a performance piece and a narrative piece (if you can call it that). The performance adds nothing to this video. It feels like she's very relaxed when performing, including forgetting to lip-sync her words during some of the scenes. This is highly noticeable at the very start. Which makes me question, whether she is really into this music, and is it really her? Or maybe she just loves hearing herself sing.
The narrative side is all in slow-motion, or most of it anyway. With cut-scenes showing that they box, like to swim, and shave each other's hair, or their own, in some cases. They like to meet up and socialise. This depicts some natural teenage life, although we are missing a lot.
I feel this is quite incomplete. Is there any scenes that got cut out completely? Or did they just not have the time to include them? The song is catchy, and I think people will be singing and playing it until the song is forgotten about. But the music video adds nothing to the song whatsoever. This is one video that makes me question what the point was in making it. Which then questions as a whole, why make music videos in the first place? So you can all guess where this rating is going... The only good thing I can drag out of this is being able to identify Lorde and it relates to the song ever so slightly. There is worst videos in this world.
I thought it was about time I started this thing up again. Reasons for not continuing was because I had started a job, which took up most of my time, as well as starting uni once again recently. But I am back, and I'm hoping I will be able to continue this on and on for much longer.
Lawson are a four piece pop rock band consisting of Adam Pitts, Andy Brown, Joel Peat and Ryan Fletcher. This is their sixth single to date. "When She Was Mine", "Taking Over Me", "Standing In The Dark" and "Brokenhearted" of which has hit the top 10 of the UK chart, and this single looks like it will be following in their footsteps. "Juliet" is extremely catchy and has been air-played a lot, if it doesn't chart high this Sunday I'll be extremely surprised. This band seems to be going strong. They're only going to get better and better.
The music video is performance based with a narrative to follow, with a surprised ending. But what is more of a shocker is that they nabbed Kelly Brook for the video, if the song was bad, just the appearance of Kelly Brook would make this song a hit, yet this is such a great hit nonetheless and if it doesn't chart high this Sunday, something is wrong.
I like the narrative, with Kelly Brook finding the richest guy, getting him drunk and then taking all his money, or the equivalent of. And we presume she is Juliet, who the boys are singing about, especially as she goes from one of the band members to the next in an extremely flirty manner, but with this twist ending, it completes the video perfectly.
The performance side is full of energy, they clearly love being on a stage and giving people the music they want to make. I think they would be great to see live, and are a great band to get the fans going.
Overall a great song that would've charted high no matter what the video was like. But this amazing video definitely helps the song, especially since Kelly Brook is in it too. I have no issues whatsoever with this video, and it relates with the song, what more could we possibly ask for? You can probably guess the rating if you haven't seen it already. But here it is anyhow...
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.
