Brighton born artist, Mi'das, is releasing an 11 track album, "All Inside Your Head". Exploring different sides of soul music, Mi'das has created a beautiful album, keeping a perfect balance of fun and simply gorgeous songs such as 'Twilight'. With each track you can hear his passion for music as well as influences from artist such as Elton John and Gregory Porter.
With recognisable songs such as 'Too Little Too Late' and 'Feels Like Only Yesterday' there's still plenty of new songs to sink your teeth into. With his ability to create unique, classic sounding music with a modern flare he has managed to nail that timeless quality to his music firmly, once again.
Mi'das knows how to create drama within his music which is shown on opening track, 'Justice'. A powerful ballad reminding me a little of Jessie J's'Mama Knows Best' in drama, the track is a wonderful introduction to the rest of the album. In juxtaposition the sweet track, 'Twilight', you are able to hear the simplicity and the wonderful song writing created by Mi'das showing off his talent and how he's not hiding behind theatrics.
As well as slowing his tracks down, Mi'das can also have fun with music which he demonstrates on 'Feels Like Only Yesterday', 'If I Were You' and 'Get On Up'. These tracks, in particular the latter, have a lot more swing and jazz feel and lighten the mood of the rest of the album.
One of the stand out tracks, in my opinion is the softly sung 'Grace' (Feat Nate Williams), it leaves me with shivers and has a magical atmosphere. Attempting something very different with the track, Mi'das has kept it very simple and airy which adds to the beauty of the track. 'Grace' sounds completely different to the rest of the album, with a softness and innocence to the music.
As well as creating a beautifully written and incredibly sung album, Mi'das helps to inspire us all, with 'This Year' describing how he's changing and 'going to shout it from the rooftops' and living the life you want to live. Only a piano supporting him, his vocals are showing off their full range as he belts out the final notes. It's the perfect end to the album before his live track of 'Everybody's Changing' leaving his audiences anticipating more to come from the future. You can download the 'All Inside You Head' on March 28th from iTunes or from Mi'das Official Website now.
Check out Mi'das official video for 'Too Little Too Late below:
Jamie Moon, a Nottingham based musician has recently released his new EP 'Oh, My Heart' and with an indie cool sound to the EP it was something that definitely caught my attention in the mix of music that I listen to lately. Going back to my roots Jamie Moon's latest release definitely hits home with me in that respect. The five track EP deals with every aspect of love someone can go through and it's wonderful to be able to go on this journey with the artist.
'Oh, My Heart' has a clear direction from the start, with an almost softly spoken voice, there are clear influences from Ben Howard but without sounding like he's imitating the already established artist. Singing about his own experiences it's hard to not get captivated by Jamie Moon's lyrics and unique voice.
'Bloom' the opening track obviously describing the beginning of a new relationship and watching it blossoming. With an acoustic sound to all his tracks, this has a bit more depth with an airy voice coming through every now and again, the arrangement of this song is gorgeous. It sounds very cautious like you are when you first get into a relationship. Towards the end it builds into a crescendo as if he's finally telling the person how he feels. Incredibly romantic.
'Wallflower' starts more upbeat with an easy going vibe to the acoustic track. Very pop, the song sounds effortlessly cool and cheerful. 'Falling to pieces around you, what you doing to me' finally opening up and admitting his own feelings and wanting them to want him too. It's a very hopeful song that will no doubt have you smiling.
The title track is up next. 'Oh, My Heart' is a lot softer and a lot moodier. Depicting how he will 'meet you anywhere' and do anything for the person, to me it sounds like a song of holding on when maybe the other person isn't. I imagine this to sound incredible live, the intensity that Jamie Moon could no doubt get into it would make for an amazing performance.
'Fear For Your Life' is next starting with that simply acoustic guitar and finger picking. A track about moving on in your life and making more commitments to a person and how it can be scary. With the sound of a drum that sounds like a heartbeat makes it intense and sound a bit edgier and rockier. This is my favourite track on the EP. It's something that I'm definitely relating to a lot at the moment but it also sounds very positive. The track is also completely open and honest which helps Jamie Moon stand out. This is such an incredible stand out track and it's easy to see why he's gathering a supportive following.
The final track on the EP is 'The Day We Met' a heartbreaking account of how he fell for her when he first met her 'can't help but notice you were sad, from the moment that we met'. It's beautifully written and will be pulling at your heartstrings no doubt. You can buy Jamie Moon's 'Oh, My Love' EP here.
Check out Jamie Moon's music video for 'Fear For Your Life' below:
I always look forward to being contacted about new music that someone wishes me to promote because it's a chance to discover new artists. Sometimes, it's a matter of appreciating someone's talent but not necessary loving that particular genre of music but yesterday I was contacted about Oktoba a Brighton based singer-songwriter, Chris Athorne, and it's fair to say that his music is very much up my street as a folk pop singer-songwriter. Oktoba debut album is being released on the 29th October so I'd thoug'ht I'd share my thoughts with you on the album 'Smoke Signals' before its released.
First off the entire album is written by Chris Athorne and he has managed to create catchy songs that make you feel good as well as more meaningful and beautiful songs such as 'On My Mind' recorded and produced by Tim Bidwell (Kate Walsh, Jack Watts) at The Clockwork Owl Studio in Brighton, a wonderful album has been created that leaves you wanting to hear more from the young talent. Reminding me of the likes of Ben Howard and Lilygreen and Maguire which are some of my favourite artists, after the first song I was already hooked.
'Smoke Signals' starts off with just music which I feel gives a whole overview of what to expect from the album, starting with a beautiful and delicate sound and then building into the song to something a little faster and upbeat sounding. To me it's a moving on song and leaving your troubles behind and getting on with life. The chorus, Chris shows off his vocal abilities drawing in some power. 'Something New' is so relatable and just a story of life and being able to get on with life despite how little you way have. It's a slow song but with optimism there, it's one of my favourite songs on the album because its just so optimistic and by the end it turns quite upbeat and is almost an anthem about stating over and trying something new.
'Aeroplane' begins with some whistling which is typical of folk music and sounds almost like a daydream. Using strength to his usual delicate tone, Chris Althorne has created a song that sounds very reminiscent and of children optimism which reminds me of home. It's short but sweet. 'On My Mind' is simply beautiful, this is the stand out for me. There's so much passion and emotion being pulled into the song and you can definitely feel that as you listen to the song which makes it all that more special. 'Oh, honey you're on my mind, everyday and night', clearly a man in love fighting to keep the person he loves with him. There is only one word to describe this song and it's gorgeous. I can imagine that this song sounds amazing live and a song that you can just get lost in.
'Run' gave me shivers, just describing life and how it 'ain't like when we were young', the difficulties of growing up. Each song has a lot of depth to it which I really like as well as wonderful song writing. There's lots of rise and fall in 'Run' which makes it incredibly interesting and power behind his voice at the end. 'I'll Be Fine' maybe with a influences from George Ezra in the music Chris' voice claims the song. 'I'm not lost in love, just going blind' definitely a lyric you can relate to if you've ever been in love and having that person beside you through thick and thin.
'Wind Fire Water Stone' adds a female vocalist to the mix which blends well with Chris', both having unique tones to their voices. It definitely sounds a little more country than anything else on the album again a love song and having that special someone in your life and how they support each other. 'Tongue Tied' about losing love and trying to make things work when their falling apart. It's simple and beautiful yet again. Not knowing what to say to each other to make things right. Another stand out track, in my opinion, with its simplicity and how much people will be able to relate to it. Again he draws into his power and passion making you realise how much it means to him.
'Sticks and Stones' is one of my favourite songs on his ten track album, it's a little slower but still incredibly catchy. It has an echo-y sound to it which I always love, it makes the song sound a little breathy and maybe in a little haunting. Reminding a little of Josh Record's album and we all know how much I loved that. I like the lyrics of 'its hard to know when you can't find love'. I think it's just a beautiful lyric and something that I could definitely relate to thinking about previous times in my life. 'You To Me' is similar also and definitely a love song for someone and no matter what happens in that relationship 'I belong to you' they're always their for each other. It's a very comforting song, in my opinion and I love the use of the harmonica as it adds to the folk sound.
If you're looking for something unique and powerful. An album that will make you think but will also be your favourite sit down and relax album, this is the album to go for. With pure talent and a unique sound there is no doubt in my mind we will hear more when Oktoba release 'Smoke Signals' on Thursday. You can pre-order the album here.
Check out Oktoba 'Tongue Tied' Live in Studio below:
Mi'das (Mike Davies) is back with his latest single 'Feels Like Only Yesterday' and I have to admit it's got a very cool and easy going vibe to it and I love it.
Sticking to his roots of soul meets pop with his soulful voice and guitar, Mi'das has created a song that sounds completely timeless. Influences from the 60s and 70s and mixing his influences of Stevie Wonder, it's no wonder that this song sounds like something from the past but something current too. The song has a classy feel to it, and makes you want to get up and dance a waltz (or is that just me). Plus, its a super catchy song, I was singing this after only listening to it a couple of times.
Showing that pop songs can have more meaning than just being a hit dance song with no real content, Mi'das creates a song full of meaning. 'Feels Like Only Yesterday' tells the story of worry free innocence of youth. Something that as you get older you look back upon a lot, I've noticed. This song easily appeals to everyone, in my opinion, it's got that old school vibe with a new pop sound also and the message is universal. Also Mi'das voice is gorgeous and smooth in it. Reminding me a little of Adam Levine's sound in Maroon 5's 'Songs about Jane' album.
If you're looking for a new artist to listen to, check out Mi'das new song, with a new album set to be released in 2016, I'm sure we'll be hearing a lot more from this artist.
If there is one artist that I always get excited about releasing new material it's Melanie Martinez and her latest release of 'Pity Party' is no exception. With a quirky personality that stood out for me when I first heard her music and a unique voice to follow Melanie Martinez has captured my attention.
Hitting the perfect balance of pop, alternative and punk there's no doubt that she is likely to have a successful career. 'Pity Party' describes the story of being let down and so you try and cheer yourself up by having a pity party. We are all guilty of throwing ourselves a pity party every now and again. I love how Melanie Martinez's songs are always full of character and personality unlike a lot of songs that are in the charts. I think it's a very unique feature that she works really well. When it comes to her music video, these characters simply jump out at you and it all makes perfect sense.
I love how Melanie Martinez has this vintage tone to her voice but she still sounds young also, there is also a lot of strength in her voice too. Everything about her music kind of contradicts each other and it shouldn't work but it does. From her pop meets punk, and her vintage voice and sound and current. It's hard to place Melanie Martinez in a certain category, for me at least. She simply stands out from everything else we hear in the current music industry. Her songs are catchy and tell incredibly vivid stories. I'm always blown away by her releases and cannot wait for her album.
Check out Melanie Martinez's music video for 'Pity Party' below:
Are you a fan of Melanie Martinez? What's your favourite single of hers so far?
Hilary Duff has been an idol of mine for as long as I can remember. I grew up watching 'Lizzie McGuire' as a kid and I've followed her career ever since. She has always just seemed like a lovely person and I loved her movies, her music and her style. So when she announced that she was releasing a new album I was more than excited and have been waiting patiently for the release. With singles 'Chasing the Sun', 'All About You', and 'Sparks' being released ahead of the album as teasers for the album, I wasn't too sure what to expect as each single seemed so different.
If one thing is sure about this album, Hilary Duff has created a perfect pop album and a great comeback.Taking a break from music since 2007, it was obvious she needed to come back with a bang, and this hits the mark. Continuing with the dance sound that she had with 'Dignity' she's taken a fresher tone to the album, with less mystery and a sugary sound. But she also shows maturity with this album. On the whole, the album is very solid pop album that will no doubt get you up dancing.
For me, however, there are some clear stand out tracks, starting with the opening track and single 'Sparks'. It's one that's had to grow a little on me, but I am addicted to it now. It's a track that I can hear playing in clubs and getting everybody up. I also love the new fan demanded music video for the track. I like that it's perfect pop with a little quirkiness to it too, it's also incredibly catchy. Another favourite of mine is 'My Kind'. I like the melody of the music, it has a very current sound to it but with a hint of her previous work which I love. It sounds a lot fresher and with Hilary Duff's sweet sounding tone in voice works well.
'Lies' is co-written by Hilary Duff and is reminiscent of her 'Dignity' album with the echoing and slightly distorted voice in the background. I love the stuttering in the chorus of lies. It's a little deeper this track, describing a relationship breakdown and not putting up with their lies anymore. It's definitely a post breakup song and a moving on track. She shows strength and yet vulnerability in the track and she's hit the perfect balance. 'Stay In Love' is another track similar to 'Lies' though it has a different tone to it, it has the theme of holding on to a love that maybe isn't the best for them. What I love about the album is that all the songs are really catchy but all stand out in their own way.
I was looking forward to the track that Hilary Duff had recorded with Ed Sheeran as a fan of both artists I had a lot of expectations and 'Tattoo' doesn't disappoint for me. I've had this track on repeat since hearing it. Its a lot softer sound to it than the rest of the album and more of the acoustic sound that we are used to from Ed Sheeran. It has a honesty about it and shows her vulnerable. I personally think that it's an incredibly beautiful song whilst remaining catchy. 'Tattoo' is definitely the stand out for me on this album.
Check out Hilary Duff's music video for 'Sparks' below:
Hilary Duff Tattoo (Acoustic):
Have you heard the album yet? What are your thoughts?
A little while ago I wrote about Mi'das and his 'Stronger' EP. To day he released the music video for his second single off of the EP, 'Too Little Too Late'which is released June 22nd. I'm so happy that he is releasing this song as his second single as it was, personally, one of my favourites on the EP and really stood out for me.
Mi'das himself describes the songs story as 'being afraid of getting old and having regrets about how you lived your life about making too many compromises and not following your dreams. It's one of my favourite songs because it mixes my soul and gospel influences wit my love of songwriters and results in the song having a timeless feeling'. 'Too Little Too Late' is exactly that. It has a really cool melody to it and makes you think about your life and where you really want to go. It's easy to sit and live the 'easy' life or the life that you're 'expected' to live rather than the life you want to live. This song, for me, is encouraging for you to go and live that life that you want. Despite it's message it still has a very optimistic approach. I like the use of a gospel choir and which reinforces the idea that living for the moment and following your dreams is something everyone struggles with. The song has that classic sound which Mi'das makes it seem completely effortless. It's a really beautiful song with a lot of soul behind it.
Check out Mi'das music video for 'Too Little Too Late' below:
Have you listened to Mi'das before? Let me know what you think.
I was contacted about reviewing Mi'das latest EP 'Stronger' - which is available on April 30th - and as always, I jump at the chance of listening to new music and hopefully becoming fans of more artists. Always the optimist when it comes to new artists that are brought to my attention, Mi'das hasn't disappointed. With a gorgeous soulful sound to his voice, it's powerful without becoming more like shouting which a lot of similar artists do. Mi'das, also known as Mike Davies, is pure soul and it's incredibly beautiful.
The opening track on the EP, 'Wish Road', I've found sounds rather different to the rest of the EP. It's a lot more haunting, especially his voice at the beginning of the track. I like the sound that's been created to make the song sound like an old vinyl playing as you can hear the crackles. It has that more vintage sound which I think helps with creating that old and haunting sound. It's a beautiful song and not surprising that he's releasing this as his first single off of the EP. It shows off a lot of his skills, such as the power in his voice and his range as well as his song writing. This was the first song I heard of his, and it blew me away, I was so impressed.
'Too Little Too Late' is one of my favourite tracks off of the EP. I like the opening the melody of the song and how it starts quite low and his Mi'das' voice is incredibly smooth and then it has this cool almost pop sound when it reaches the chorus, however, he sticks to his roots. The added use of a choir only helps create that true soul sound which I really love, it helps to create power and drama. The song also shows off his vocal abilities and his range which is rather impressive.
'Vienna' has a little more edgy, it's very much more a pop song and a feel good song. You cannot help but smile when listening to this song, which focuses on about discovering what makes you happy. It's a warm song which makes you want to dance around, it completely takes over your thoughts and makes you happy, at least that's what I discovered. His voice still sounds incredible with a taste of his soulful sound coming through. It's the fun track on the EP which I personally really love.
'Like You Did Then' slows things down for us. With an beautiful soft sound to his voice and the use of an acoustic guitar. It's everything I really love in music. The song demonstrates his fantastic song writing skills. The song, and Mi'das voice gave me shivers which is always a bonus. It's simple with mostly just the use of a guitar and his voice, but it has so much power and stands out. 'Like You Did Then' shows his vulnerability and that, to me, shows complete strength like the title would suggest. It's the perfect end to the EP, showing off everything that he does so well.
Mi'das sounds incredibly unique, in his style of music, there's nobody I can think of that sounds like him. It's like he's took the artists that influences his music and created a whole knew sound which makes him his own artist. He's very impressive and I have no doubt that he's going to go far. He's definitely made a new fan in me. Mi'das'Stronger' EP is available on April 30th and I am highly recommending his music. He is a breath of fresh air and does soul music proud.
Check out Mi'das lyric video for 'Wish Road' below:
Let me know what song you're looking forward to hearing below.
Last week Hilary Duff released the audio for new single 'Sparks' and we see the return to dance/pop music from her. Whilst her last two singles had more of an indie/folk vibe to them this is clearly something that you're more likely to hear in a club.
'Sparks' is incredibly catchy, I listened to the song and had the chorus in my head. It also has that ability to make you want to get up and dance along and have fun. For me, music has to make you feel something whether that's great emotions or simply makes you want to dance. 'Sparks' is exactly that for me, it's fun and flirty, a song perfect to singing along to when your getting ready for a night out with the girls. The song is more mature than Hilary Duff's previous releases, but what else would you expect as both herself and her audience have grown up now. I like the dance approach that she's took this single, it kind of reminds me of 'Dignity' but with more modern beats. I also really love the whistling in the song, it adds that fun and bouncy feel to the song.
Whilst I loved 'All About You' this feels like what I'm used to from Hilary Duff and I know a lot of fans are happy about this return. Either way, I'm looking forward to her album whether that be an indie/folk or dance album. Or the album could be an appreciation of all the types of music that Hilary Duff likes, it will be interesting to see what her approach will be on the album and this release has only made me more excited.
Listen to the audio for Hilary Duff's'Sparks' below:
What do you think of Hilary Duff's latest release?
I've been meaning to write this post for a while now because I am obsessed with Jana Kramer's latest single 'I Got the Boy'. I've been a fan of Jana Kramer since I saw her on One Tree Hilland when she started releasing music I got really excited. I loved her first album and listened to it non stop but nothing, I feel, compares to this single.
'I Got the Boy' tells the story of a girl who fell in love with a boy and how he's now moved on to someone new. It's quite a sad song but it's something I think a lot of us think about when we see old friends/boyfriends/crushes finally growing up and getting married. Its a song for reminiscing which is what I love about country music, they tell stories so well. Jana Kramer has that really strong country sound to her voice which I really love, she sounds completely country music but her voice is incredibly powerful. I feel, that her voice also has the ability to really capture emotion, in particular on this track, at any moment I keep thinking she's going to break down in tears which may sound harsh but I like to hear raw emotion behind a song, I think it makes them stand out.
I love the entire sound to the track, it's got ballad elements but with those clear country guitars which makes it a little less dramatic which I always prefer. It's an incredibly emotional song sung perfectly. Furthermore, its very relatable and it's a song that I can't stop listening to at the moment. Jana Kramer definitely doesn't get enough credit for her craft as this is truly, one of the most beautiful songs I've heard this year. I cannot wait to see what she has to release next. The single is out now and available on iTunes.
Check out Jana Kramer's'I Got the Boy' below:
Have you listened to Jana Kramer before? If so, what's your favourite track?
It's very unusual these days to hear a new artist that their sound of music is so unique that it makes you really stop and listen to their songs, however, Camden based electronic pop band, The Salvador Darlings, managed to do exactly that, for me, with their single 'Show World'. The band offer a darker side of the genre which makes them stand out from the rest of the crowd in this market.
Listening to 'Show World' you can hear a lot of atmosphere within the music which is something that I really like as it gives you that ghostly feel.The atmosphere is likely to be created as additional vocals for the track were recorded in Trafalgar Square. This works really well within this track for The Salvador Darlings, as it adds a bit more mystery to the song and takes it away slightly from what is stereotypically electronic pop music. The vocalist, Carine Fierobe, has a really unique sound to her voice, it's strong and has a very sexy and temptress sound to it. Her voice and the atmosphere in the music creates a darker and edgier sound to the song which sounds incredible.
I feel like The Salvador Darlings approach to music is very different and unique which makes them very interesting to listen to. I was impressed with their first single and can't wait to listen to what they have to release in the future. They are definitely worth watching as this song is incredibly beautiful.
You can listen to The Salvador Darlings debut single 'Show World' below:
I'm always on the lookout for new music - as you are probably aware of if you read a lot of my posts - and the other day I was contacted about Kristyna Myles and her new music video 'I'm Getting Rid of This' after hearing how quirky and catchy it was, I jumped at the chance to listen to her album 'Paint a Brighter Day' ahead of its release which is set for March 23rd.
Kristyna Myles starts her album off with 'New Page' (Interlude) which sets you up for the album. With it only being half a track it quickly shows you what you can expect from the entire album with her strong vocals and a pop and jazz approach to music. Her single 'I'm Getting Rid of This' is my favourite on 'Paint a Brighter Day'. Its incredibly catchy and has a fun approach to it, telling the story of getting rid of the negative things in your life whether that be within your relationships or just in general. She has a very different and unique tone to her voice which I always love as it makes artists stand out and she sounds like nobody else.
Within her music there is also a lot of character such as 'Drop Me A Line', 'It's Not About You' and 'I'll Guess I'll Never Know'. Its quite a unique quality to music, whereas I'm used to hearing stories being told in music, it's rare that you can hear character which again makes her a very unique artist. 'It's Not About You' I can almost hear a little bit of the style that Lily Allen had in her '22' album which I loved but Kristyna Myles has a more powerful voice similar to that of Caro Emerald and Paloma Faith. This track is another favourite of mine, I love the beat of the track, it sounds a little quirkier to other music I listen and really stands out on the album, for me.
You cannot help but smile throughout the entire album. It has a very positive feel to it, and the album name, 'Paint a Brighter Day' is perfect for this album, as it does just pick you up. Particularly track 'Halfway' it has that optimistic feel good sound to it that reminds me of summer. 'Heaven Knows' is another track similar to this, though they sounds very different. 'Heaven Knows' shows her gospel influences as the verses are very subtle and quiet before building into a fun choir in the chorus. I feel 'Heaven Knows' sounds very theatrical and a strong image is given which I love. You also get to see the softer tones of Kristyna's voice and her runs are silky smooth.
I was thoroughly impressed with Kristyna Myles' unique style and her voice is absolutely gorgeous and powerful. I love her unique tone and the qualities that she puts into her music, it makes her stand out from everyone else. If you're looking for something that's a little different to everything on the radio then I would definitely give Kristyna Myles a listen. She will certainly have you captivated.
Check out Kristyna Myles' music video for 'I'm Getting Rid of This' below:
Mumford & Sons are back and I cannot tell you how happy I am about this. I've seen a lot of comments about people missing the banjos and the more folk vibe that they've always had to their music prior to 'Believe' and as much as I loved their old sound. I am also really liking this new vision that they've created. Finding out they had released the audio for their new song yesterday, it's fair to say that I was straight on my laptop to listen to the song and I'm already obsessed with it.
'Believe' has a different approach to music than what we are used to from the band, leaving their banjos to one side they've picked up their electric guitars instead, but they are undoubtedly the same band as before, creating a unique sound with meaningful and honest lyrics. I like the soft approach at the beginning of the song that sounds almost magical and Marcus Mumford's voice is gorgeous in this softer tone.
The song then builds with a solo that is very reminiscent of prior Mumford & Sons just with a heavier and fuller sound. It works well with the softer side that we heard at the beginning as it creates more atmosphere and sounds more like a fight for what they want. It takes a quiet song into something incredibly powerful but equally as beautiful as before.
I was blown away with this new release from Mumford & Sons and cannot wait to see what they are going to release in the future with 'Wilder Mind' being released on May 4th. I have no doubt how amazing it will sound.
Check out the audio for Mumford & Sons'Believe' below:
The other day, I was on Twitter when I noticed I had a new verified follower. It always surprises me when I get a verified follower, especially when they are singers and it makes me curious to find out more about them. The person who followed me the other day was Daniel Pearson after checking out his Spotifypage I was pleasantly surprised.
'Mercury State' is a very relatable album for most people. Daniel Pearson comes from a working class background in Hull, and this shows through the lyrics within this album describing his struggles that have come from the recession. Guitar driven opening track of 'Factor Floor' describes this with Daniel Pearson's striking lyrics. I love the echo-y sound that the track features as he sings 'what more could you want from me' which gives the feeling of unity.
The first song that I played was 'I Still Believe' which is a slow song that is so beautiful, there's a long piano introduction which gave me the chills and then Daniel Pearson'ssilky voice comes into play, which makes it even more beautiful. It's a song that makes you think, and for me it's about cherishing every moment, regardless of what is happening in the world. 'There's still some power in the smallest of dreams', I love that lyric. It's a very hopeful song and very honest which I think is refreshing.
Daniel Pearson also has a heavier rock and blues feel to his music in tracks 'Promises' and 'Hard Times'. I feel like he has subtle digs at the government in 'Promises' and talks about their broken promises which is quite gutsy in opinion. It's also different, as a lot of the music that I hear are more love songs, so this is quite a different approach in modern music to talk about the issues of day-to-day life rather than lost love. It's very much reminiscent to how music used to be. I like the lyrics of 'hope has disappeared, it won't be coming back' and the 'lies you tell by the money you make'. I love the feel and the sound of 'Hard Times' it has that heavier sound and gives the feeling of people fighting back and surviving regardless of the difficulties that the state has put them into.
As well as his different approach to telling stories about real life, and not romanticising life. I think that Daniel Pearson is a great lyricist. Quite a lot of his lyrics stick out to me, not only do they reflect life struggles but I feel like you can take those lyrics and turn them into motivation. Such as in 'Rat Race' when he sings 'it's a hard race to run when you're running with the rats/when you're running out of time', it kind of makes me want to pursue my own dreams more to prove everyone wrong. Also in 'Old Friends' which sees Pearson return to his country/folk vibes with the ending lyrics of 'whether it rains or pours' it's just a reminder that you've got people there who will stick with you through the hard times of your life and they're the ones who count.
I was impressed with Daniel Pearson's completely honest and open lyrics and singing about topics that we don't normally hear. He also shows his range and what he is capable of when he sings with just a guitar and sounds more folk, or then amps it up with a heavier guitar and more production work and then slows it down again with a beautiful song of just him and his piano like 'I Still Believe'. He's quite a unique artist and one to definitely one to watch.
Check out the lyric video of Daniel Pearson's 'I Still Believe' below:
Have you checked out Daniel Pearson yet? Who are you currently listening to?
I stumbled across The Shires music a couple of weeks ago when I fell in love with a song that kept playing at work. After googling the lyrics I found out the song was 'Tonight' by The Shires and I was going to write a post then, but I noticed that they were releasing an album soon so decided to hang out and check out their album. Anyway, The Shires released their album 'Brave' yesterday and my god, it may be one of my new favourites.
The Shires are a British country duo, and we all know how I have a soft spot for country music, who formed in 2013. Their opening track from 'Brave' is 'Tonight'. This is probably my favourite but that's because I've been listening to it for ages. It kind of reminds me a little of Lady Antebellum (who I love). The song is very romantic about falling in love, it's upbeat and cheerful, its optimistic and just describes the moment of falling in love perfectly.
On 'Brave' there are a few up-tempo songs that remind me of typical country but they have their own unique flare and sound on country music.I love 'Nashville Grey Skies' as it demonstrates this country sound that reminds me a little of Dolly Parton in the opening verse. I like how it sounds like they're bringing country to the UK, and creating their own Nashville in their home country. I also love how they sing about 'dancing in the rain' which is typical Britain. It's fun and shows their character. Another of their upbeat and fun tracks is 'Friday Night' its kind of like an anthem about letting loose and having fun with your friends. To me, it has a little bit of pop thrown into it, in particular on the chorus. My favourite of the uptempo tracks though is 'All Over Again' it's cute and tells the story of falling in love with someone over and over. Their voices harmonise and flirt with each other which I really love. It's also really catchy, I can't get the song out of my head.
The track that I find the most different on the album is 'Jekyll and Hyde'. Its more edgy than anything else on the album with a more rock/country approach. For me, I take away that they bring out a different side of the person that they are with. I think it's a good use of the story and makes them a little quirky. I love songs that use well known stories to help tell their own messages. It also shows a different side of The Shires and shows that they are quite a diverse band and have a wide range and tones to their voices.
As well as the up beat and fun tracks, they also show a more romantic and softer side to their character with slower tracks which I can't get enough of. Title track 'Brave' is one of my favourite tracks on the entire album. In the verses, their voices remind me a little of The Civil Wars who are my favourite folk act. Ben Earle's voice sounds silky smooth in this track and gives me shivers. I like how the track doesn't stay slow and peaceful throughout the entire song and builds in the chorus into something more powerful making it sound like they are fighting for each other. 'I Just Wanna Love You' is another favourite. It sounds very reflective talking about what they once wanted and how now that they've grown up that doesn't matter and how they would rather be that special person. I love how they tell stories within their music. It's an incredibly romantic song and I can see this being used on TV or in movies.
'Made In England' describes typical British things that living in Britain we probably don't appreciate or think of as a nuisance. They make rain sound romantic with the 'grey skies' and I love the line, 'vinegar and salt on my lips, nothing like Friday night fish and chips' that really gave me a craving to go to the seaside for fish and chips. It shows that they are patriotic to England despite this country sound that is more typically associated with America.
Following on with the more ballad and slower tracks, we have 'State Lines' which gave me shivers, as they sing about all the little things that make up the relationship. I think Crissie Rhodes voice sounds so beautiful and vulnerable. You can hear the raw happiness in their voices that sounds incredibly precious. 'Black and White' portrays a very clear image of how when you're in love you're just yourself and everything is in black and white. It's incredibly romantic. Finally, we have 'Only Midnight'. I think this is the perfect song to end the album. For me it tells the story of being brave and exposing how you feel to the person you love, it shows their voices off perfectly, with a lot of power behind their voices and there's that flirting in the music again and between their voices that I love. It's all about being brave and being vulnerable. Which I think sums up The Shires perfectly. Country music isn't something we hear a lot of in the UK and so for them to come out as a country duo and stay true to who they are as artists is incredibly brave. I also think their lyrics are very vulnerable and tells relatable stories. I was thoroughly impressed with this album and will no doubt be listening to it for a long time.
Check out The Shires music video for 'Friday Night' below:
Have you checked out The Shires album? What's your favourite track?
Every now and again, I love to listen to a little bit of dance music but I like the more indie sound to it. I'm a huge fan of Foster the People and Two Door Cinema Club, so recently when Years & Years were advertised before a YouTube video, I decided to check them out and I stumbled across their song 'King'.
The music is very much what I like from this sort of genre. It has a club vibe and a party feel so you get that feel goodness from it but the lyrics talk about a destructive relationship which kind of goes against the music. It's odd in that way but I quite like it. The music does just want to make you dance and have a good time with your friends.
The singer uses a lot of runs and trails which adds to the song and follows the music a lot which is quite quirky. Usually, I'm used to runs being used in big power ballads but this is quite unique. I think that Years & Years have found a gap which they fill really well. Getting the balance of songwriting and production just right, plus you can hear that he has a great voice behind him. One thing that normally irritates me about dance music is that it sounds completely different live but after looking at their live performance they do actually sound pretty similar which surprised me. I'll definitely be checking out more of their music.
Furthermore, I really like the music video for 'King' it's quirky and different with the use of contemporary dance. I like the use of showing clips with the dancers moving the singer but then clips of the singer being pushed into those shapes with the dancers invisible, it just makes it quirkier and I love things like that.
Check out Years & Years music video for 'King' below:
Are you a fan of Years & Years, leave a comment below.
Drop everything right now because Maroon 5 have a new music video out. Okay, so maybe don't drop anything but you really need to watch the music video. 'Sugar' was one of my favourite tracks off of 'V' album and this music video makes me love it even more.
Basically, the band crash real weddings in one day around LA to play for the party. Their is a lot of talk about how real the weddings are and if they were staged or if it was scripted, but honestly, I don't care. It's a music video at the end of the day, if its real then I'm jealous because how the hell will a wedding top Maroon 5 randomly surprising everyone? If not, then the idea behind it was brilliant. Either way, the music video has gotten people talking and what more could a band want. At least their music video is classy.
'Sugar' has that old school vibe to it, a little bit of swing mixed in with their usual pop making it a little different to everything else available, it definitely reminds me of summer and makes me wish for the sun to come out and the cold weather to disappear. The song makes me incredibly happy and brightens my mood. It's one of those feel good songs about being in love with someone.
The band looks incredibly dapper in the music video with their tuxes and bow ties. No doubt though if Adam Levine showed up at my wedding their is a good chance I wouldn't be getting married that man is perfection in my eyes. Also, I would've freaked out beyond belief, I mean its Maroon 5 who doesn't love them. It's a cool music video with a feel good vibe to it and if it doesn't make your face hurt from smiling so much then I don't know what will.
Check out Maroon 5's music video for 'Sugar' below:
What do you make of the music video? Leave a comment below telling me.
Villafan is a new artist that has been bought to my attention recently after being contacted about his new EP 'I Still Believe' and honestly his music is right up my street so I have been incredibly eager in wanting to get my thoughts down for you. I've been so desperate that it's currently 23:47 and I never stay up this late working, but I figured I'd make an exception when good song writing needs discussing.
What I particularly love about Villafan's'I Still Believe' EP is the lyrics. They seem to make you think about the bigger picture or about other people such as 'Changing the World' the lyrics are something like 'easier to remind yourself that if you look away that all your problems will fade away' and I really love that line. It is so easy to try and forget about your problems or let things slide but how does that play out in the long run? Furthermore, in 'You're Not Alone' the lyrics that caught my attention was 'someday maybe we'll be a little stronger, but till then maybe hold on a little tighter', this made me think about relationships and how if you're arguing a lot it's easier to walk away but by staying and discussing those issues and having a little faith it makes that relationship stronger. Finally in 'Let Go' I am obsessed with the lyrics in the chorus of 'can you let go of the fear that holds you back' it's something that I feel will resonate with a lot of people. I feel like his lyrics would encourage people to make little changes in their life which surprised me. I was thoroughly impressed with Villafan's song writing and how the lyrics hit me.
I also like the style of music that Villafan expresses on the EP. It has that blues sound that I really like and a hint of jazz, sometimes reminding me a little of Phillip Phillips 'Behind the Light' album which we all know I loved. I love how his music doesn't seem 'current' or 'oldschool' it simply sounds classic and like BBC Radio Merseyside said it's 'music without an expiry date'. His sound doesn't seem to age it just has that classic sound which I think is refreshing from music releases recently. Villafan has that soulful and romantic air to his music too which I loved, you can't help falling in love with his music, its that sound that will make you sway and want you to dance with you partner.
I checked out some of his other releases too when I was looking through his work and came across his signature song 'When We Try' and I was really impressed by his vocal abilities not only in this song but throughout his EP. I like how he has this soft sound to his voice, his falsetto is so smooth and gives me shivers but then his sound builds this power and shows raw emotion behind the words his singing. My favourite track was 'Let Go' I just think that those lyrics really hit home for me and I love how powerful his voice is towards the end of the song. I also love 'Believe', Villafan's voice is gorgeous on this track and sounds romantic, but the song also talks about chasing your dreams and encourages you to continue on your path.
You can listen to Villafan's'I Still Believe' EP on his website. You can also download a free copy of his Acoustic EP which I've been listening to on repeat. You cannot beat some acoustic music.
Check out Villafan's Live Performance of 'Believe' below:
Have you heard of Villafan' before? Be sure to check out his EP's.
On Monday, Tim Schou released his second single, 'Goodbye', and the music video to accompany it. Obviously, I downloaded this as soon as it was available.But that's not all that Tim Schou has done this week. On Wednesday evening he had his Showcase at The Garage in London. Though it killed me not to be there I did listen to the show via Stage It, thanks Christian for keeping us company all evening.
First off, the single. From the previews I knew that 'Goodbye' would have the ability to break my heart. It's one of those songs that really hits home and is incredibly relatable. A lot of atmosphere is created in the song with the music with an almost romanticised air to it which I really love. You also cannot deny the fact that Tim Schou can sing the crap out of the song. His voice seems to get stronger each time he releases something new, plus you can here the emotion behind his voice, particularly when he sings 'sad' you guys know the part. The use of a choir in the final choruses works really well also to create power in the song. I feel like this addition really helps to create the drama and atmosphere to the song.
Not only does the song sound amazing, the lyrics speak volumes too. Tim sings about a love where they 'lost the will to fight' and regretting breaking up with that person. Although the song is powerful that doesn't mean that you won't be singing it non-stop. I cannot get the chorus out of my head and I'm probably annoying everyone that has seen me this week by repeatedly singing it over, only because I can't sing even though I do pretend to be Beyonce too much.
Gutted that I was unable to see Tim Schou at any of the gigs that he was playing this week, I settled with the Stage It show where I could hear the set. Honestly, it sounded amazing which only made me more sad that I wasn't there. But I'm holding out that I'll go to a Tim Schou concert soon. His voice is so powerful and is one of my favourite voices I've heard for awhile. His songs are relatable and you can't help but fall in love with his music. I wish him all the best for the future and cannot wait for an album or more songs to be released because I loved each one that I heard from the gig.
Check out Tim Schou's music video for 'Goodbye' below:
Were you at the London showcase? Leave you comments below about the gig, I'm dying to hear more.
