LIFE: Reflecting on 2014

With only a day left of 2014, I thought it was about time I looked at what I've done within the year and what I've achieved. It's easy to look back and think about all the negative stuff that's happened in the year, whether that's losing friendships, or not getting something you really wanted to. The amount of times I've said that 2014 has been crap, but now thinking back it really hasn't been. Yes, there are things that I wish I had done that I hadn't but that's what I can aim to do in 2015.

1) Breaking out of my shell.
I've always been quite a shy and quiet person, I've also always struggled with social anxiety. Having spent a little time getting some help with my anxiety and panic disorder, I've been able to come out of my shell more and just be me. It's weird how when you understand more about what is happening to you in those panicky situations how it can affect you. I've managed to make so many more friends and open up to them and act silly around them without worrying. I've also made a lot more plans and had more of a social life as a result of it. It's made me a lot happier and I can't wait to continue this throughout 2015.

2) A New Job.
I got the opportunity in March to take over a concession whilst someone was on maternity leave, therefore acting manager. It hasn't always been the easiest of jobs and I'm not saying that it's my dream job at all. However, it gave me confidence knowing that my area manager thought I could handle it and also been given such a huge opportunity at a young age. I couldn't be more grateful for the experience and what I've learnt from it.

3) Starting this blog.
Now, I know my blog isn't successful like most bloggers, however, it has been something I've been thinking about doing since I was 15/16. I've always enjoyed writing and my love for music is something I'm incredibly passionate about sharing (even though I have no musical talent what so ever *cries a little inside*). However, finally writing these posts, even if they haven't been as frequent as I would've liked, it's gave me some cool opportunities that I cannot wait to continue into 2015 and see where my hobby takes me. Having people contact me saying they like my work is surreal and makes it feel worth while.

4) Going to an Arena concert.
This is something I've wanted to do for years but I've always been too nervous and scared that I would start panicking at the gig. However, this year, I took the risk and went to see one of my favourite bands (You Me At Six) with one of my oldest friends and it was such an enjoyable time. Not only the concert but catching up with my friend who I don't get to see enough.

5) Having the best friends I could hope for.
This year, has shown me who my friends are, and though I haven't fallen out with anyone, its definitely made me realise who I was important to. I've made new friends along the way which I can't imagine not being in my life now. I have friends who will come back from Coventry to cheer me up (a 3 hour train journey, what a friend). Also, I have my friends who I never thought I would be friends with who have turned out to be so incredible. Without them this year I wouldn't have such an amazing year. I've also had old friends come back into my life this past year, and it's felt like we never had that break.

6) Starting my NVQ.
Now, I was supposed to go to University this year after deferring my offer in 2013. But when the time came I knew I was enjoying working and that university wasn't really for me. My manager, however, did tell me about doing an NVQ in retail and as I love learning, I've decided to take up the opportunity. Whilst it might not be a degree like my friends, I am still learning and it is odd to go back into that after a year and half out of education, but I'm sure it will be great for me to do.

These are just a few things that have been important to me in 2014. However, I cannot wait for the next year to come and to start taking more risks and more opportunities. Check back tomorrow to see what I want to achieve in the new year. Hope you've all had a fabulous year!

What has been the highlight of 2014 for you? Leave a comment below letting me know.

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

BOOKS: Jane Costello - My Single Friend

After re-reading Jane Costello's 'Girl on the Run' I went a bit Jane Costello mad and wanted to read more of her books. My sister-in-law's mum had recently given me 'My Single Friend' so I thought I'd give it a go, knowing that it'd be an easy read and would make me chuckle.

The story follows Lucy who embellishes her lifestyle when on dates, despite the fact that she's got a great job and is actually a very lovable character, obviously these embellishments backfire on her. Living with her geeky best friend, Henry, the two of them decide to give him a makeover including two best friends, Dominique and Erin. Whilst they embark on their mission which is 'Project Henry' to make him datable. Giving him a new hair cut, new clothes and new glasses and teaching him how to flirt. We see their friendship develop and unfold, whilst sometimes it's tested.

Henry is literally the best guy friend that we all want and I couldn't help but love him, whilst I wanted to slap him sometimes it was out of love. Lucy is another great character from Costello, she writes about these successful women too which is quite inspiring rather than the female protagonist always being written as a damsel in distress. If you're looking for an easy read with lots of laughs, then this is definitely for you. I read this book so quick as I never wanted to put it down.

If you have any book recommendations for me, leave them below.

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Artist Vs. Poet - Medicine

So, one of my favourite bands (Artist Vs. Poet) are back with a new album, 'Medicine' and when I found out I was so excited, I think my parents thought I had gone slightly crazy. They are one of those bands that no matter what they release I always enjoy what they produce. They've kept changing up their style and experimenting with their music with their recent releases which has kept the sound of the music fresh.

Speaking of, 'Fresh' is the opening track on their latest album. Its one of those songs that you will be singing constantly after the first listen. It's slightly edgier than recent releases and they've gone back to their punk/rock vibe which I really like. However, their lyrics are more mature. The song just makes me want to jump around the room in attempt to dance, its fun, flirty and sexy which is different for them. 

'Medicine' follows the same sort of vibe as 'Fresh' with that edgier vibe. It kind of reminds me of The Bigger Light's 'Battle Hymn' album which I used to be obsessed with. Joe Kirkland has a signature sound to his voice though that really stands out, he's very versatile which goes a long way and I'm pretty sure there isn't anything that his voice can't do well. I'm always blown away with his vocals. This is probably the heaviest song they've released for a while, but I really love it. 

'Break Away' they've released two versions of the song on the album, the full studio version and a piano version. Both are incredibly beautiful but the piano version is my favourite track on the entire album and had me on the verge of tears. The lyrics are gorgeous, about a love that they want back. It's the song that I think that will relate with a lot of people and has a lot of potential. 'When you finally rest your head tonight, are you wishing I was by your side' is a lyric that I just love, you can't help but think about your relationships when you hear this song. 

Next up is 'Sincerely Me' and 'Kids Again' which I already wrote a post on (here) in short, I really love these two tracks, their slightly more acoustic and quirkier. Losing that rock edgy and sounding a little more folk. I love how Artist Vs. Poet can show different sides of what their capable of as a band and the album still sound perfect and not a collection of songs that don't fit together  in anyway. Their sound changes but they're are elements in the music that keeps the album together.

'Leavin' is another favourite of mine. Again, it's a little slower and more acoustic sounding. I like how it builds up into a faster pace, talking about a girl leaving in the middle of the night. It's like a campfire song which I really love the sound of those songs. For me, they sound much more authentic and then they can be played up or down depending on the type of gig that the band is doing. Though they mix up their sound, they're always completely unique and make music that tell stories that are so beautifully honest which is what I really love about the band. They don't attempt to make music that sound like chart music, but stick to what they like and what they want to achieve. They do their own thing which what works for them, the character that they have in the music opposed to having songs written for them that they're not really interested in.

'Somewhere Else' I think I annoyed my parents by singing this song over and over again last night but it got them singing it too, so my plan was executed perfectly in my opinion. It's quite a modern song if that makes sense, in the way that it talks about people playing games and not tolerating it anymore. It has a more of a R&B sound to it in my opinion, but more old school, with a focus on the beat. Does anyone else think of Beyonce too when he sings 'if you put all my shit in a box to the left'? Just me?

'Everything Must Go' demonstrates that softer side of Arist Vs. Poet, depicting a break up and cutting all ties to that person. It's the perfect break up song in the fact that it's not bitter towards a person but just describes how a break up should be.

'Unbreakable' starts with talking that's kind of creepy, it reminds  me a little of a fair ground voice-over. It's got that rock edge to it with a little soul/R&B especially when it comes to the chorus. This is probably one of the tracks that shows off how versatile Kirkland's voice is, as it has really powerful sections, but also demonstrates the rock and R&B side of his voice too. The track has a lot more production to it than I am used to for the band, but it builds to add atmosphere to the song which works incredibly well, and gives an almost ghostly air to it.

Finally, 'Awake' is the perfect way to finish the album. I feel like the entire album is like a love letter to winning a person back and though they may have had other relationships that nothing else can compare to what they and that original person had. Maybe I'm wrong, but music is open to interpretation.

For me, this is the best album that Artist Vs. Poet have released to date. They keep getting better and experimenting as well as growing as a band, which always makes me excited to see what else they have planned for the future. This album blew me away, and they deserve a lot more credit and popularity.

Check out their album on Artist Vs. Poet's Sound Cloud page.

What do you guys think of Artist Vs, Poet's latest release? Leave a comment below with your favourite track.

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Gavin DeGraw - Need

This week has been absolutely mental for me. I've done over 50 hours at work, including early mornings and late nights and somehow managed to go to a party and see one of my friends. To say I'm shattered is an understatement. So whilst I wait for the Strictly Come Dancing results, I thought I would share an artist and a song that means a lot to me.

I've been obsessed with Gavin DeGraw for years now and I can't wait to go to one of his gigs one day, but he doesn't tour the UK enough (hint, hint). When he released 'Make a Move' I immediately fell in love with the track 'Need'. I liked the lyrics and the melody of the song and how he goes from a steady pace into this huge and powerful chorus. It's Gavin DeGraw doing pop that doesn't sound like everything in the charts which is why I loved it.

Over the year, I've kept coming back to 'Need' it's one of those songs that get's me thinking about life and relationships. Plus I relate to the lyric 'you've got these secrets you keep, like the looks that you steal from me'. We've all had friendships and relationships with people where there's been a flirtation when maybe there shouldn't be. This song means a lot to me and always reminds me of one person which is probably why I love it so much.

Check out the audio for Gavin DeGraw's 'Need' below:

What's your favourite Gavin DeGraw track?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

Music: Olly Murs - Wrapped Up Feat. Travie McCoy

This week, I've been non-stop listening to Olly Murs feat. Travie McCoy 'Wrapped Up', even whilst I've been at work it's been playing. On my shift last Friday it was played five times, and I didn't complain once. In fact, I actually used it as a way of knowing how long I had left before I could go home (shh, don't tell my manager) and looked forward to it being played again.

I've not always been a huge Olly Murs fan, I've always thought his songs were okay but I've never felt the urge to go out and by his albums, however I have always loved his personality. It's only fairly recently that I've got into his music. What I do love about his songs is that his cheeky personality and character comes across in a lot of his songs, in particular with 'Wrapped Up'. It's one of those fun songs that you can't help but singing along to, even if  you are in the men's suits department and you're supposed to be serving customers (oops). I love songs that instantly make me happy, as you've probably noticed, and this does exactly that. 

Not only are the lyrics cheeky and fun but the melody and vibe of the song also has that feel. It has that natural and authentic sound to it of old school music with the use of trumpets. I'm really loving that old school vibe in music at the moment, its starting to become a little bit of a trend and I much prefer it to when 'dropping the beat' was popular. The addition of Travie McCoy to the track is perfect. I do enjoy Travie McCoy's work with Gym Class Heroes and so when I found out he was on the track I was very excited. It adds that cool edge to the song and I think the rap actually adds to the song. 'Wrapped Up' for me, reminds me a little of Maroon 5 'Hands All Over' and it's not the first time that Olly Murs has reminded me of them. I'm not moaning though because he does sound amazing. I feel like he's found a style that really suits him, by blending current pop sounds with that older sound creating something fun, unique and current. I'm definitely going to be buying his new album (Never Been Better) this week. 

Check out Olly Murs' music video for 'Wrapped Up' Feat. Travie McCoy below: 

Have you checked out Olly Murs' latest album yet? Let me know what you thought.

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

LIFE: It's Okay to be Single

I've been doing a lot of music posts recently, and today I just wanted to be 'real' and talk about something that's been bothering for a while. I'm at a point in my life where being in a relationship would be really nice, to go on dates and cuddle up on the sofa watching movies that would be lovely. But I'm also the kind of person that likes to be in control of who's coming into my life and who I spend quality time with. I've had two friends trying to set me up recently and I love both of these people to pieces and I know that they're not trying to force me into the wrong relationship but it lead me to this post. IT'S OKAY TO BE SINGLE!!!

My friend told me the other night, 'I want to see you happier' when I asked him why he was trying to set me up with our mutual friends and I love him to pieces but being in a relationship shouldn't be forced. My other friend thought me and her friend would make a good pair and I just wasn't feeling it. I'm not picky when it comes to relationships, I'm not shallow and want a really hot guy or anything like that. But I know exactly how I want to be treated. I told my friend that 'I believe that things happen as they happen'. I honestly believe this when it comes to people. I've had people come into my life when I've needed them the most and whilst we might not talk any more or anything I'll be grateful for the time that we did share together.

Not only is it the fact that I didn't want to just be in a relationship with anyone. For me, the reasons that I'm single come down to having feelings for someone and not knowing what to do with them in the fear of losing a friendship. Also, I work all the time so fitting in time for someone else is really difficult. I'm also very happy being single. I'm surrounded by people who make me happy and who I can have a laugh with without having to worry about someone getting jealous. I also don't have to worry about jealousy over a boyfriend and his female friends. 

This post was just to remind anyone who feels like they need to be in a relationship to be happy that you don't. There are a million things out there that make me happy, for example: this blog, going to work and hanging out with some absolutely amazing people, hanging out with friends,even just chilling out in bed with Gavin DeGraw playing (yes that is what I'm doing right now). It's also okay to feel lonely sometimes. Yes, I would love to be able to go to see that movie but I can't because none of my friends want to see it and a boyfriend wouldn't have the choice, right? But overall I'm in a position where I'm so happy about the people I've got in my life right now and when the time comes someone special will come into my life or something will change and I'll end up falling in love with someone I never thought I would and it will be amazing. But being single doesn't have to feel like a failure. It's the time to find out what makes you really happy and time to focus on yourself.

Is anyone else going through a similar situation at the moment? Leave a comment below saying how you deal with people trying to set you up?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Jesse McCartney - Punch Drunk Recreation

Today, I thought I'd be brief and just share with you a song and music video that I've been obsessed with all last week. I cannot stop listening to Jesse McCartney's 'Punch Drunk Recreation'. It's one of those songs that just lifts your mood.

I love the beat of the song and the fun nature of it. It's still got that old school funk vibe which is seeming ever so popular with artists that have been in the business for a while. We all know I have a soft spot for Jesse McCartney, and if you follow me on Twitter you'll have seen me saying how I would love to dance with him one day. Not only does he seem like a really nice guy and fun to be around but he creates music which is in a genre that I don't normal listen to but makes me really like it. If there's one thing that Jesse McCartney can make me do it is dance (very badly, I may add). 'Punch Drunk Recreation' is the perfect song to listen to cheer you up or to listen to getting ready for a night out. 

Check out Jesse McCartney's music video for 'Punch Drunk Recreation' below: 

What songs have you been loving this week? 

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

BOOKS: Jane Costello - Girl on the Run

I fall in love with books very easily, but it's very rarely a book sticks with me and I want to read that book over and over again. However, Jane Costello's 'Girl on the Run' is one of the few that I have this relationship with. I first read this book a few years ago and I just loved it. The characters are incredibly believable along with their relationships with each other. Okay, so parts may be slightly over dramatised but then it's a book, they're supposed to be otherwise they'd be boring.

Abby Rogers is my hero. She works hard but exercise isn't really her thing until hunky Oli suddenly makes a running club appealing. She's funny and has plenty of awkward moments that make me love the character as she isn't all sophisticated. Not only is it the characters that stick with me, but the reason to the novel. There are some heavier topics within the book and I think Jane Costello explores the topics really well and it's this story that has stayed with me. She also knows how to make small moments stay with you too.

If you're looking for something to get you back into reading then this is definitely one of those books. It's easy and quick to read and I was addicted to this when I was reading it again. It's the perfect 'chick lit' book but with more (does that even make sense?) You will love Abby and Mau along with all the other wonderful characters that Jane Costello created. It's definitely worth the read and won't disappoint.

Have you read 'Girl on the Run' or another of Jane Costello's novel's? What did you think?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Delaney Gibson - Stars

The other night I was contacted asking if I wanted to write a post about Delaney Gibson. In all fairness, I  hadn't really heard of her before, but when an opportunity rises to discover new music, I have a very open mind. I was sent some information about her work, but I always like to do my own research and so this post is all my own thoughts and opinions on Delaney Gibson's latest single 'Stars'.

Delaney Gibson has a very unique quality to her voice, similar to that of artists such as Florence and the Machine and one of my favourite singers, Paloma Faith. It sounds very theatrical which I actually quite like in this song, as it portrays very vivid images. You also cannot deny the fact that Delaney Gibson sounds absolutely amazing on the track. She has that very powerful and strong voice that is very easy to identify as she sounds like no one else. I also like the message behind the song. It's upbeat and positive about chasing your dream and there's a lot of lyrics that stand out to me. 'You've got the stuff that stars are made of, yeah you've got the stuff, you're enough," is a line from the chorus and I think that's one thing that we forget about. If there's one lyric that helps you accept who you are and accept other people it's this. The song is also encouraging to chase your own dreams.

This is a song that will stick with you and not in that annoying catchy way, but it's so honest and powerful that I think it's going to be hard to forget about. I imagine this song to really blow  you away when you see it in concert too. It's anthem like in a theatrical way which is different to what we usually hear on the radio. To accompany the song, a campaign was also launched to do something bold and vulnerable on your social media sites and use the #STARSCAMPAIGN. I think this is a really good idea, so if you haven't already, why don't you join the campaign yourself?

I've also listened to other tracks from her album 'Tall Like the Tree'. My favourite tracks were 'Be', 'Give Up the Ghost' which I thought had a Caro Emerald feel to it. I also really liked 'I Deserve Love' a ballad with a lot of emotion and theatrics once again. Her songs have very strong characters and stories behind them which is very different to what I'm used to, but I really like it. I feel if you're into musicals you'd really love Delaney Gibson. She has that indie folk vibe to her sound on songs too, which is personally my favourite genre of music. I'd definitely recommend checking Delaney Gibson out. She's very different to any other artists that I've listened to before but it's a breath of fresh air and her voice is astonishing.

Check out Delaney Gibson's music video for 'Stars' below:

Are you already a fan of Delaney Gibson? Why not check her out on SoundCloud?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Lilygreen and Maguire - Hologram

Lilygreen and Maguire hinted last night that they had a big announcement today at 5pm, and to say I was excited is an understatement. They are possibly my favourite band/duo/artists. They have this tendency to write songs that are so relatable and beautiful that I can't help but get excited about their new projects. Plus, they are incredibly lovely guys that are passionate about their music.

Their announcement was of their new EP 'Hologram' being available on iTunes now. As soon as I realised this I loaded up iTunes and instantly downloaded it. I'm never disappointed by these guys releases, because I know that they will always be amazing. I honestly don't think they've released a song that I haven't absolutely loved yet. 

'Hologram' includes three tracks, the title track, 'Little Hearts' and 'Counting Cars'. 'Hologram' has that country, folk sound to it once again, and sounds a like the perfect song to sing around a camp fire. The lyrics are beautiful, about a lost love but they have this upbeat sound to it which gives the song an uplifting and positive sound to it. On the first time I played this I couldn't stop smiling knowing that these  guys are doing exactly what they do best. Their songs are incredibly catchy too, and they hold that authentic acoustic sound that they absolutely own every time. I like all the hand claps too. 

'Little Hearts' depicts the story of someone having to chose what they want and your normal relationship troubles. In my opinion the song is too short, I'd love to hear more but that's probably because I'm greedy and can't get enough of their sound. It has that same folky sound to it, their voices seem to have matured a lot since their previous releases and you can definitely hear their growth in the lyrical content. I like all the little 'la, la, la' parts, it makes it sound more authentic and personal, rather than just having music filling the gaps. 

'Counting Cars' the guys placed this song on their YouTube channel a while back now and I've been obsessed with it since I first heard it, so to be able to own it now, makes me very happy. It is such a beautiful song. I get shivers listening to this song, and its one of those songs that you sit and really listen to the story being told, which is one of my favourite things about it.This is probably one of my favourite songs I've heard this year. 

I'm so happy that they are back and with new music. One thing guaranteed with Lilygreen and Maguire is that what ever it is you hear on their studio releases, going to see them live in concert, they will sound exactly the same. They don't use any gimmicks, or hide behind anything. If you like that acoustic, folk approach to music then I would definitely check these guys out. I can't wait to see what Lilygreen and Maguire have in store for the future but if these new songs are anything to go by, I know that it will be amazing. 

Check out Lilygreen and Maguire's 'Counting Cars' below: 

What's your favourite track off the new EP?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Kate Voegele - Wildcard EP

If it hasn't been clear, growing up I was obsessed with One Tree Hill. Not only did I love the characters and stories on the show, but it also had really good music on the show too. A lot of those artists I have followed through their career, such as Tyler Hilton, Gavin DeGraw and Kate Voegele. Recently, Kate Voegele released a new EP called 'Wild Card' and I thought I'd share my thoughts.

It's been a couple of years since she released 'Gravity Happens' and I've been eagerly waiting for some new music from Kate and her latest EP doesn't disappoint. The opening track, 'Just Watch Me' sees her delve into a more country folk vibe. It's definitely a sort of reflective song about where you are and where you want to go. Kate isn't afraid of changing styles with her music and somehow it doesn't come across as her changing to fit what people want to hear or what will be popular, but it just seems to show the growth of her music and where she is. After listening to this song a few times, I really love this song, it's like a reminder that you've got plenty of time to figure out where you want to be and who you want to be.

'Carousel' the track is a little edgier than everything else that appears on her EP and has a hint of the vibe that she had in her debut album 'Don't Look Away'. It's a little quirky, but has that country hint to the sound once again. If there was a single thing that I love about Kate Voegele it's her 'break up songs'.

'Ooh La La' is perhaps one of her sweetest songs, it's almost describing that moment when you fall in love, the melody of the song demonstrates that for me. Kate has a unique sound to her voice, in my opinion, and that's what got me interested in her music. She doesn't have the classic pop voice that you hear everywhere, but has this very unique quality that manages to captivate you and draws an audience in. Her songs also tell a story but their stories that we can all relate to, this is also shown in 'Caught Up In You (Feat. Inland Sky) which is incredibly romantic. Their two voices melt together heavenly. It's like nothing that I've heard Voegele do before and shows a softer side to her voice. It's almost angelic when they join together on the chorus.

The final track on the EP is a cover of 'When I'm Gone' from 'Pitch Perfect'. I actually really like her version and how she's changed the song. It's been slowed down and sounds a lot more meaningful, Kate seems to have more power behind the words she's singer. I may just prefer this to the original which is saying a lot.

This EP, for me, shows how versatile Kate Voegele's talent is, even though she doesn't demonstrate that power from songs like 'Kindly Unspoken'. It's definitely got me excited for what she'll be doing next. To me, she's got a lot more to say and this is just the beginning for her return.

Check out Kate Voegele playing 'Just Watch Me' live below:

Are you a fan of Kate Voegele? What's your favourite song off the new EP?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Taylor Swift - 1989

Honestly, I have literally spent the entire day listening to Taylor Swift's '1989' on repeat. There's not many albums where I just sit and listen to the album back-to-back for hours on end but this album is incredibly addictive. Taylor Swift is always ahead of the game, in my opinion. She made Country Music cool, and after owning that she switched it up to pop and experimented a little with an indie style with 'Red'. Her latest release, '1989' shows her exploring sounds of the 80's and making it cool again.

The opening track, 'Welcome to New York' reminds me of 'The Carrie Diaries' every time I listen to it, which is a good thing suggesting the type of style she has aimed for. I wasn't too fussed on the song when I first heard it but now it's one of my favourites. I dare you to sit still whilst listening to the track, it's near enough impossible. She also teamed up with Ryan Tedder on the track so it's no wonder that the song has grown on me.

The album is full of dance beats, but not like the techno and dub-step sounds that we've heard in recent years, it's for me, that classic pop sound. Despite it being the perfect soundtrack for getting ready for a night out when you listen to the lyrics it's actually really amazing and relatable too. There's no doubt that Taylor is one heck of a good story teller with her lyrics. With this album she's not only switched up the genre of music that she's tackled, for me her lyrics show growth. No longer does she seem to have that naive girl sound to her. She seems to have grown up and whilst the songs are fun and innocent they no longer seem too cheesy, however they hold on to that optimistic approach.

'Style' is quite possibly my favourite dance track on the album, I just love 'you've got that James Dean daydream look in your eye' lyric, I've been singing it all day. 'All You Had to do was Stay' is another favourite. I don't normally like it when artists use that synthesised sound which she's used for 'stay' but I think it works incredibly well with this song. 'I Wish You Would' its a very optimistic song, in my opinion, almost like a daydream. It's like when you've been sat thinking about that person who you once had something with and just hoping they'll come back. I also love the lyrics again of 'you always knew how to push my buttons'. That's what I like about Taylor Swift's music, no matter what song you listen to you always pick up on a particular lyric which  you love or relate to.

If you were to ask me what my favourite track on the entire album is, normally it would be a hard question for me to answer. But for me, the stand out track is 'Wildest Dreams'. It's sounds incredibly romantic and haunting, it's literally like a dream. It also sounds more grown up. We see a lower side of Swift's voice at the beginning which I love on the song. I hope that this is released as a single because I genuinely think it would fly. If it does, just reflect back to this post where I called it.

'This Love' is another slower track. It gives me chills listening to it. Again it shows growth and maturity in Taylor. It's the first album of hers where I haven't been trying to guess who each song is about and I don't know if it's because she's kept her private life, private. But I've found I've enjoyed the album a lot more. I haven't wanted to know who she's writing about and I know a lot of other articles are trying to guess, but my question is, who cares? Every love song written is about someone but we don't question who other artists are writing about. So can't we get over this?

Obviously you can't write a review about her album without talking about 'Shake It Off' it was definitely the right song to promote the album. It shows just how 'pop' the album is and also has that 80's beat and edge to it. I would definitely recommend this album regardless of what you're usual taste in music is. It doesn't really sound anything else out there currently and you will no doubt not be able to turn the album off.

Check out the music video for Taylor Swift's 'Shake It Off' below:

What's your favourite track from the album?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

FASHION: Christmas Party Dilemma

So I have my Christmas work party in two weeks time, a little early we do realise that but it was the only date we could get. Plus, me and some of my work friends go out closer to Christmas just to go bowling - because who doesn't love bowling? I've been browsing the internet for an entire week in the hope of finding the perfect outfit for the party and I've been really struggling. The problem is, we're going to a new pub/cocktail bar that's opening and none of us know exactly how fancy it is inside as it used  to be your standard pub. The other problem is that it's not quite Christmas yet so are all the glittery outfits too much? Anyhow, this is a selection of my favourite party outfits going from casual to all out there. Hopefully this will give you some inspiration whilst helping me find the perfect outfit for my night out.


Dresses 

Playsuits 

  

Tops 

What are you planning on wearing to your Christmas parties? Help me out please! 

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Stay With Me Covers

Like a lot of people I love Sam Smith's 'Stay With Me'. It's an absolutely gorgeous song and he's probably one of the few people who could write a song about a one night stand and make it sound romantic. You may have seen my previous post of A Great Big World which featured my favourite covers from the internet of their 'Say Something'. Recently, I've been seeing a lot of covers of 'Stay With Me' so decided to share my favourites.

Lauren Aquilina - Live at St. Pancras 
This is by far my favourite cover that I have seen on the internet of this song. Lauren Aquilina is one of my favourite artists as it is but being put in a busy place like St. Pancras and playing took some serious guts and she absolutely nailed it. It's almost as if she's oblivious to the people around her.

The New Velvet feat. Lara Johnston

This is the one that inspired this post. I saw this video a couple of days after Lauren's and I knew I wanted to talk about them. This takes a slightly more put together sound with a fuller band than Lauren's with a lot more drum and bass. I've also never seen this song as a duet and thought these two nailed it perfectly. 

Ed Sheeran in the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge 

Who doesn't love Ed? To be honest there is literally nothing that Ed Sheeran could sing and I wouldn't find it beautiful. 

Sam Smith and Mary J. Blige 

Okay so I realise I have cheated. I was searching for another cover to put in to this post, trying to find the best on YouTube when I stumbled across Sam Smith and Mary J. Blige. I simply couldn't leave it out. I mean its Mary J. Blige people. Plus it's gorgeous and quite possibly my new favourite thing in the world (not even kidding guys). 

So, what's your favourite? Or have you spotted someone else's cover which is amazing? 

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

LIFE: A Day In Sheffield

A couple of weeks ago, me and my mum took a much needed trip to visit my brother in Sheffield. With working so much, I've only  been getting one day off a week and those days have been spent trying to chill out and run any errands that I may have. So, a rare Saturday off was spent with a forty minute coach journey to Sheffield and spending time with my mum and my brother before his birthday.

I've never been to Sheffield before, mostly because I'm not the best traveller when it comes to buses, but I wanted to get away from my town for a few hours. The plan was to see his flat and see his new kittens (they are so cute). My family are very much cat people and they were so tiny, which made them even more adorable. We then went for a drink in perhaps the coolest bar/pub that I've ever stepped foot into, 'Bungalows and Bears'. After nursing a hangover, my brother told us he needed a safety beer. The pub reminded my a little of Urban Outfitters but with alcohol and food. It was quite  different to anywhere I've been before, I mean look how cool those bathroom doors are.

Blazer - Missguided / T-Shirt - Topshop / Jeans - Topshop Leigh Jeans / Bag - Miss Selfridge / Watch - Urban Outfitters 

Next up, as we were in a city, we decided to do a spot of shopping. In all fairness, I think I restrained myself only picking up a few bits and pieces. Lush was definitely on my hit list. I was out of bath bombs and they do my favourites. I also visited H&M mostly because we don't have one where I live. I finally managed to pick up a mustard cardigan (you literally don't know how happy I was about this). Last week, my other brother and his wife also had a baby so we all obviously wanted to get presents. Jordi went for a skeleton Halloween outfit which I have no doubt will look extremely cute whilst I went for a Zebra stuffed animal and my mum picked up a few blue outfits.

At half two, we were all incredibly hungry. We stopped into a Weatherspoons one of my favourite places for food. Me and my mum just went for the Jacket Potato and Cheese whilst Jordi went for a burger. We had a good catch up and my brother teased me about our waiter who apparently kept coming over to talk to me before he dropped some cutlery on the floor (something I would totally do).

With our bus at ten past five, we carried on looking around the shops, going down a lane and popping into a quirky vintage type store. It was a really nice day out, it was lovely to see my brother who we don't get to see too often now. It was obvious that he was happy to see us.

How did you spend your weekend?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Taylor Swift - Out of the Woods

So, basically the world freaks out at the fact that Taylor Swift has released a new track from her upcoming album '1989'. I am just one of those people who freaked out. As soon as I got up this morning I downloaded 'Out of the Woods'.

On first impression I was like 'eh, it's okay', but it was only when I was at work later and me and Jo were singing along to the song when we were doing the delivery that I realised how amazing this song is. I think that there is a lot of hype about the song at the moment as everyone is speculating that it's about her relationship with Harry Styles, and do you know what I say? Who cares! I really don't care if this song is about their relationship I simply think it's really unique to what music is available at the moment. Taylor seems to have this ability to see a gap in the market and completely own it. She opened a lot of people's eyes (at least where I am from) to country music and now she is using this 80's inspired sound and making it cool.

Go into this song with an open mind, that is my only suggestion. If you're looking for acoustic/folk type music then you will be disappointed. It is very pop with an upbeat 80's style to it. It's also incredibly catchy I dare you not to start singing 'are we out of the woods yet, are we out of the woods yet, are we out of the woods?' because it's impossible. Though this clearly tells a story about a relationship that had some issues, I still can't help but feel like it's optimistic and feel good sound to it. It's a song that I feel like everyone will love, whether your out with your girls, or chilling out with your mum, this is an amazing song and demonstrates how talented Taylor is at playing with different sounds.

I have no doubt that I will be singing along and dancing around my house and properly work to this song for awhile. It's just too good, and fun and really exciting.

Check out the video below of Taylor Swift talking about 'Out of the Woods':

Have you had chance to listen to the song yet? If so, what did you think? 

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

BEAUTY: FOTD Trick or Treat

As they are one of my favourite posts to read, I thought I'd share what makeup I wore the other day. I wanted to do a smokey eye and make that the focus, therefore I kept  my base natural along with my lips. I also wanted to use my Naked 3 Palette which doesn't get as much love as I wish I did, so having an extra ten minutes decided to have a little play with it. 

Foundation - Rimmel Match Perfection / Concealer - Soap and Glory Kick Ass Concealer / Powder -Rimmel Stay Matte / Bronzer - The Body Shop Honey Bronze Powder / Blusher - B. Cheeky Blush in Candy Cane / Eyeshadow - Urban Decay Naked 3 Trick, Darkside and Blackheart  / Lips - Rimmel Kate Moss Matte 101

I'm loving the copper and amber toned eyeshadow at the moment and so used 'Trick' all over my eyelids. For a little definition, I added 'Darkside' into the outer corners and took it into the crease very lightly and then lined my lower lashes with 'Blackheart'. After touching up my efforts (I'm not the neatest person when applying eyeshadow) with a little concealer, I really liked the overall look. I would definitely wear something like this on a night out. 'Trick' is becoming one of my favourite shadows from the Naked 3 Palette.

What are your favourite autumn eyeshadow shades?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

MUSIC: Artist Vs Poet New Releases

I've mentioned Artist Vs Poet on here before, but a little while ago now they released two new songs: 'Sincerely Me' and 'Kids Again'. So I thought I'd share what I thought of them.

First off 'Sincerely Me' demonstrates a continuation from their 'Sake Of Love' EP. They play with catchy a hook and melody, it's fun and very pop sounding. I also love the whistling within a break in the song, it makes it that much quirkier and I really like when pop songs are a little quirkier. 'Sincerely Me' is incredibly sweet and is like a love letter. Joe Kirkland's voice is so smooth too and sounds like a young boy in love. I bet you'll you be singing 'I'm yours, sincerely me' for the rest of the day once you've listened to the song.

I like how Artist Vs. Poet have seemed to find themselves as a band and what they want to aim for in this past couple of years. They seem to have found their direction. They also aren't like other Rock Bands or Boy Bands, they fit in the middle and make a perfect band, in my opinion.

Second up is 'Kids Again' feat. Amy Allen, is my favourite of the two. It's a little slower and a little darker. I like the duet, I tend to find that most duets are really powerful ballads, but this is really understated and quiet compared to those. Joe and Amy work really well together and it sounds completely unique. The song sounds like the two of them picking faults with each other but still loving them regardless, it's like a couple bickering which I've never heard in a song before. I listen to this song all the time. The melody has a very optimistic sound to it which puts me in a good mood. I think this song could be interpreted in different ways, such as a couple bickering or friends that have grown up together and teasing each other.

I'm hoping for big things for Artist Vs. Poet because, in my opinion, they really do deserve it. They write and create such amazing pop songs and stay true to who they are.

Check out 'Sincerely Me' and 'Kids Again' below:


Are you a fan of Artist Vs. Poet?

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram

FASHION: Missguided Little Burgundy Dress

Missguided is one of my favourite sites at the moment. I find myself too often looking at the new in section and whilst I love the pieces, my bank account really hates it. Anyway, I was snooping on the site the other week and came across the perfect little burgundy dress (did you see what I did there?) Plus it was only £14.99!

God, I look so moody in the first picture. (Dress - Missguided / Necklace - Topshop) 

Burgundy is one of my favourite colours for autumn/winter, and I thought this bodycon dress would be a great basic to have, it's a nice transitional piece too. I think this would be nice on a night out, with some heels, but I actually bought this to wear for work and just out and about. I would pair it with some black tights and some little boots. If I was brave enough to face the cooler weather I would definitely wear this outfit though, bare legged and with some my little Dorothy Perkins Burgundy Chelsea Boots (I love these boots so much). I know it's a little matchy-matchy but I kind of liked the look and the grungy feel it had, team it with a black leather jacket and I would be in my element.

(Boots - Dorothy Perkins) 

I'm sure that they had this dress in other colours which I might have to go back for, it is so comfy and fits perfectly. I don't like when bodycon dress feel incredibly tight and have no give in them, but the jersey material makes it comfortable and flattering. 

What are you loving at the moment? 

♥

Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram