TiBB Album Reviews Topic (post your Album reviews here) [Archive] - ThisisBigBrother.com

xDramatick

02-12-2008, 10:59 AM

I've been considering starting a review blog, haha. I listened to each track 3 times, and tried to be as fair and honest as I could be.

Britney Spears - Circus
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/e/e1/Circus-_Album.png

Womanizer - 5/10.
Catchy lead single from the star's sixth studio album. Not a bad track, however the 'woma-woma-nizer, womanizer' bridge becomes extremely annoying, as does the rather repetitive chorus, although the spoken part redeems it. I also dislike how it drops really slow for the third verse, I much prefer the live remix. Good tune to dance to though, what it lacks in lyrical content it makes up for in beats.

Circus - 9/10.
Beat-based second single from the album, actually a really good song. I like how the beginning is entirely beat accompanied, and it breaks down into the more upbeat chorus. The lyrics are great, comparing her shows to a circus, and I really love how the tempo changes in different parts.

Out From Under - 6.5/10.
The first of two ballads, it begins rather boring, although the song does pick up after the first chorus. Her vocals are fairly strong in this song, showing off quite a wide range. Decent, strong ballad, a little bit boring and samey for me, nothing really hooks me in, and I generally like a good ballad.

Kill The Lights - 8.5/10.
Reminds me a lot lyrically of Piece Of Me and Toy Solider. I adore the bridge and chorus, though the verses aren't bad. Catchy without being annoyingly repetitive shows that Britney doesn't need the irritating one word hooks. Lyrically great and the breakdown in thrd verse really works.

Shattered Glass - 9/10.
A great upbeat song that allows Britney to show off her vocals. This is one of my favourites on the album. I love how it starts off fairly upbeat and completely changes for the chorus. The only negative for me is the repeated 'glay-ass' but that doesn't take away from the song itself.

If U Seek Amy - 10/10.
Possibly Britney's best song ever, this is by far my new favourite, overtaking 'Gimme More'. Incredible lyrics with the secret message in the title words, easy to dance and sing along to, and a great beat. Amazing song.

Unusual You - 7/10.
Most reviews I've read seem to rate this the lowest but I think it's a decent, mid-tempo song. However, reminds me too much of 'Heaven On Earth' which was my second fave song on Blackout, but still a good song.

Blur - 4/10.
Good lyrics, good vocals in the verses and chorus, just not a very good song. I presume it's about a one night stand, and I find it very forgettable. Despite this, I would love to see her sing it live. I can imagine the set being stripped down to just her, and the microphone, and I think it'd do her some good.

Mmm Papi - 1/10.
Ew. Just absolutely awful. Terrible lyrics, the beat sounds almost comical, and everything about it is awful. The worst song on the album by far. Compared to some of the other songs on the album, and especially the standard of some of the bonus tracks, it's questionable why this made it to the album.

Mannequin - 6/10.
Fantastic beat, and a great chorus. However, the song itself could be a lot better. The beat is fairly unique to the album, and she could have done much better with it. I find it quite boring up until the 'baby, baby, i don't care' part.

Lace And Leather - 7.5/10.
I really like this song. The lyrics are really well written, and Britney's vocals sound brilliant. The verses sound similar to 'Easy' by Sugababes, and it's just as good a song, if not better. On the other hand, it sorta blends in with a few other songs though, and doesn't stand out strong enough to be a single. A bit of a filler track. I can see her putting on a great show with this track.

My Baby - 8/10.
Soft ballad that shows what Britney's capable of. The vocals are both the strongest, and the most beautiful I've heard from her yet, and it's not a bad song. Definitely the better of the ballads, one of her best ever, along with 'Everytime'.

Radar - 1/10.
I hate that they put this on here. It should've had some sort of 'Circus' makeover, or at least a remix. I actually didn't bother putting it on my ipod.

Rock Me In - 6/10.
I don't really get into this song until the first chorus. Showing a more electro-pop side to her, this song is reminiscent of Annie/Robyn. The lyrics are a bit generic, the vocals are decent and it's a good song, but little more than that.

Phonography - 8.5/10.
Sorta like Kylie's 'Speakerphone', I find this song quite a sexy one actually. The beat is amazing, and totally fits with the lyrics. I could see a real good dance routine to this, and should've been an actual album track rather than a bonus, perhaps in the place of Radar.

Trouble - 3/10.
I don't really like this track. It sounds like most generic dance tracks to me. Nothing really stands out for me, not that it's a bad song, no, it's an alright effort, just not for me. A bit bland and lacks anything strong.

Amnesia - 9.5/10.
Why wasn't this an album track? This should definitely be in place of 'Mmm Papi'. By far the second best song from this era. It's catchy, easy to sing along with, and the lyrical content is brilliant. Fantastic instrumental, I think this would have an awesome music video.

Quicksand - 6.5/10.
Like a few others on this album, I'm not keen on the beginning, and don't really get into it until the chorus. Some of the best lyrics on the album, the beat's nothing special, it's fairly mid-tempo and it's not as good as other songs on the album.

Rock Boy - 7.5/10.
One of the rare times we get to hear real instruments from Britney, it makes this track really stand out. Rock influenced dance track, not an amazing song, but definitely not a bad one. A musical direction I'd like to see Britney experiment with in the future.

Overall;; - 7/10.

Best Song;; If U Seek Amy.
Worst Song;; Mmm Papi.

A really good effort from Britney Spears. I much prefer it musically to Blackout despite there being more forgettable tracks I'm not keen on, it should set the star up for a fantastic comeback providing she releases the right songs, gives great performances and continues to promote it.

Princess

02-12-2008, 12:07 PM

Take That-The Circus

The Garden-11/10
Epic. I love that they all share vocals,was a real suprise,although a lovely one. Amazingggg,one of favourites

Greatest Day-10/10
Number 1,woooooo!!!!! I've overplayed this song but still adore it. Such a happy song.

Hello-9/10
Loved this but not as much as the other songs on the album,I hate being mean about TT songs! But it's a little too happy maybe :laugh: I do love when Markie goes 'Oh hello' though and 'It's a lovely day,it's a lovely day',I love that bit!

Said It All-11/10
It's so poignant(hopes is right),it's made me cry so many times. Loved Mark's verse-great lyrics

Julie-10/10
Shalalalalala,lovessssss it. Happy but carries it better than Hello. Really catchy.

The Circus-9/10
This song is amazing but it reminds me of I'd Wait For Life which I always thought was just a little boring. Not enough bv's from the guys. Gorgeous ballad though

How Did It Come To This-11/10
Jason Orange :love: It's such a good song! Really good lyrics,although impossible to sing along to :laugh:

Up All Night-10/10
Love this song-reminds of so much of Mark's solo stuff. Love the marrying middle-8 bit. Rumoured to be the next single

What is Love-9/10
Good song,suits How really well,just not one of my favourites.

You-10/10
Wooooo I caught up with my CD! Love this song,although it sounds like I've heard it before,dunno why. I say the lyrics make every Barlow fan swooon.

Hold Up A Light-12/10
My favourite!!!! At the start when it goes up,I nearly had a heart attack,lol!It's a song about the tours and so fitting,I can see it all in my head as it's happening. Can't wait to see it live

Here-10/10
Much prefer it to 'What Is Love',it's very soft and then a rock instumental!Very un-TT! But love it of course

She Said-10/10
Lovveeeeeee the giggles :love: Cheeky song,pulls if off brilliantly

Overall-A gazillion of out 10

I am being beyond bias but I think it's sooooooooo fantastic,and much better than Beautiful World. Had it on replay since Friday and cannot turn it off and when I do,the songs just won't get out of my head. I would recommened it to anyone. It will be incredible live-so glad I got so many dates.

Favourite-Hold Up A Light
Least favourite-The Circus/What Is Love

Tom4784

02-12-2008, 11:09 PM

BRITNEY SPEARS - CIRCUS

I don't think it's as good as Blackout, The first half is very good (Standout songs are Shattered Glass, Out from under, Circus and Womanizer) the second part of the album suffers from being too same-y.

7/10

THE KILLERS - Day and Age
A very eclectic album, There's a lot of Bowie-esqueness in this album in which I love. I love the varied styles and the experimental instruments (Caribean Drums in a rock song? Amazing!). I didn't like this album at first but now I love it. The Standout songs are Human, A Dustland Fairytale, I Can't Stay, Spaceman and Neon Tiger.

9/10

Tom4784

02-12-2008, 11:09 PM

Nicky.

02-12-2008, 11:18 PM

McFly - Radio:Active -

1. One For The Radio
2. Everybody Knows
3. Do Ya
4. Falling In Love
5. POV
6. Corrupted
7. Smile
8. Going Through The Motions
9. The Last Song

Overall, I LOVE this album, but I don't think I would ever say I don't like something of McFly's .. xD I got the album that came free in the paper.. and have yet to buy the one with 3 extra tracks + DVD :)

Best song - PoV
Worst (But still great!) - Going through the motions

10/10 :)

Damaris

03-12-2008, 07:01 PM

Black kids-Partie traumatic

Hit the heartbreaks-Very good Eight/Ten
Partie traumatic-A standout track Nine/Ten
Listen to your body tonight-Dance indie meets sexual frustration (=Ten/Ten
Huricane Jane-Seriously Amazing Ten/Ten
Im making eyes at you-Average.-Six/Ten
Ive underestimated my charm again-Good Seven/Ten
Im not gonna teac youre boyfriend how to dance-WOW Ten/Ten
Love me already-Pretty darn good Eight/Ten
I wanna be your limosine- :cheer: Love it Nine/Ten
Look at me(When i rock wichoo) Awesome Best on the album Ten/Ten

This album is an incredible indie dance album which should be bought :thumbs:

I recommend to all music tastes

Eight.Seven/Ten

:cheer::cheer::cheer::cheer:

Tom4784

03-12-2008, 07:11 PM

Originally posted by mambosambo12
Black kids-Partie traumatic

Hit the heartbreaks-Very good Eight/Ten
Partie traumatic-A standout track Nine/Ten
Listen to your body tonight-Dance indie meets sexual frustration (=Ten/Ten
Huricane Jane-Seriously Amazing Ten/Ten
Im making eyes at you-Average.-Six/Ten
Ive underestimated my charm again-Good Seven/Ten
Im not going to teac youre boyfriend how to dance-WOW Ten/Ten
Love me already-Pretty darn good Eight/Ten
I want to be your limosine- :cheer: Love it Nine/Ten
Look at me(When i rock wichoo) Awesome Best on the album Ten/Ten

This album is an incredible indie dance album which should be bought :thumbs:

I recommend to all music tastes

Eight.Seven/Ten

:cheer::cheer::cheer::cheer:

I love that album!

I request a sticky for this thread if it can be done please? Thanks in advance if it can be done!

GhettoSuperstar

03-12-2008, 07:46 PM

http://www.194u.com/img/dyn/products/large/0602517900738-large.jpg

Girls Aloud - Out Of Control

01. The Promise - The song we all know and love, sophisticated, catchy and sublime. Exactly why it's a #1! [10/10]

02. The Loving Kind - WOAH what a bloody fierce video, incredible and the most moving song on the album. Wow. [10/10]

03. Rolling Back The Rivers In Time - Despite being the longest Girls Aloud title for a song, ever it's not their best. A wintery sounding tune with a strong chorus, love it. [8.5/10]

04. Love Is The Key - Incredibly catchy, I sing it all the time. Another ace album track from the girls, could be a possible single me thinks. [10/10]

05. Turn To Stone - A repeatative dance number with Cheryl giving sexy lead vocals. She does the job to its best. One of my faves on the album. [10/10]

06. Untouchable - Over 6 mins long but not a bad thing. It's epic. Could easily be a single. I love the end bit, Nadine singing.. "like beautiful robots dancing alone". [9.5/10]

07. Fix Me Up - Back a step now, a funky lil number but should be on album #3 'Chemistry'. Still a good one but not as strong as the others. [7.5/10]

08. Love Is Pain - Ooolala. Nicola is the best on this one. This one is being performed on their ITV xmas special show. [8.5/10]

09. Miss You Bow Wow - Wow it is. ****ing brilliant song I cannot stop playing. Typical Girls Aloud - cheeky, quirky, catchy and fun. Amazing!! [10/10]

10. Revolution In The Head - Something a bit different from the girls and it works. Nadine's rapping is brilliant, haha. I wouldn't make it a single, works too well as a strong album track. [9/10]

11. Live In The Country - Zomg. Yet another favourite of mine. The lyrics is hilarious and I love the beats to it. Love Nicola's part "and when my dumb city friends slum it back in their bedsits". [10/10]

12. We Wanna Party - Good way to end the album on another upbeat track. Nothing short of love for this one. [9/10]

Overall
10/10
For people who have ears - this is for you. This album is just amazing and I am still playing it to death 1.5 months later and hundreds of listens. Can't wait to see it on tour. :hugesmile:

Locke.

04-12-2008, 07:14 PM

R. Kelly - 12 Play: Fourth Quarter

Wanna Make a Baby - 8/10
Hair Braider - 10/10
Skin - 10/10
Screamer - 10/10
At the Same Time - 8/10
Whole Lotta Kisses - 8.5/10
Might Be Mine - 9/10
Son of a Bitch - 10/10
Go Low - 10/10
Freaky Sensation - 10/10
Two Seater - 7/10
Playa's Get Lonely - 10/10
Relief - 9.5/10

Overall: 9.23/10

Best Song: Playa's Get Lonely

Worst Song: Two Seater

MrGaryy

14-12-2008, 08:36 PM

http://www.194u.com/img/dyn/products/large/0602517900738-large.jpg

Girls Aloud - Out Of Control

01. The Promise - Catchy track one of the album's best, only one other track truly measures up to it, second single The Loving Kind. Though a little tiresome due to excess airplay, an energetic thumping track. [10/10]

02. The Loving Kind - It's Call The Shots 2.0, a predictable choice for second single, great track though, hot video too. Good for chilling. [9.5/10]

03. Rolling Back The Rivers In Time - The first of a recurring theme on this album. Very bland, lacking that punch. Kind of winter-esque. Nicola proves to be the best on this one one [5.5/10]

04. Love Is The Key - Going Promise-y again with old school beats. A bit of a grower, but again nothing more than a decent filler. [6/10]

05. Turn To Stone - Going back to the future with this one, nice of them to keep it different. It's a midtempo, bouncy track, with nice vocals from Nadine&&Cheryl and a strong chorus. Bit repetitive though.[7/10]

06. Untouchable - A track very similar the rest, there seems to be no point to it, a filler with out doubt. Nicola eyt again sings wells on it though, nice to hear her take more of a lead this album. [4/10]

07. Fix Me Up - Love this, one of my personal faves, great synthy vocals all round, that are accompanied by strong old school beats. Sexy track. [7.5/10]

08. Love Is Pain - Perhaps third single? Another catchy sing-along tune, great bridge, but like many others seems a bit lack luster. One of the better ones though.[8.5/10]

09. Miss You Bow Wow - Girls Aloud token silly song, again it's missing something, not the best vocals but a different direction for them and a daring move to take, which for the most part they pull off. [6.5/10]

10. Revolution In The Head - Yet another totally different direction for them, going back to The Promise side of things. A nice track, not a single, but one of the strongest on here. [8/10]

11. Live In The Country - Old school Girls, reminiscent of their What Will The Neighbors Say? days. Crap chorus, bland lyrics, none of them particularly shine through on this one. [4.5/10]

12. We want to Party - Perfect way to close it, I imagine they might end the concert with this. Edgy, classy sexy track with a rocking chorus. One of my personal faves. [9/10]

Overall
5/10
An album of mid-tempo fillers, easy listening, very samey, a step down for the girls from Tangled Up. They took a risk and only half pulled it off. Nothing on here is amazing bar the first two singles.

Locke.

26-12-2008, 02:23 AM

Stereophonics - Decade in the Sun (Definitive Collection)

Disk 1

Dakota- 10/10
The Bartender and the Thief- 10/10
Just Looking- 10/10
Have a Nice Day- 10/10
Local Boy in the Photograph- 9/10
Maybe Tomorrow- 9.5/10
Superman- 8/10
Pick a Part That's New- 10/10
My Own Worst Enemy- 10/10
I Wouldn't Believe Your Radio- 9/10
You're My Star- 10/10
Mr Writer- 10/10
Step on my Old Size Nines- 10/10
Devil- 8.5/10
It Means Nothing- 10/10
A 1000 Trees- 10/10
Vegas Two Times- 7.5/10
Traffic- 10/10
More Life in a Tramps Vest- 8/10
Handbags and the Gladrags- 10/10

Disk 2

Madame Helga- 7/10
Bank Holiday Monday- 8/10
Rewind- 10/10
My Friends- 9/10
Climbing the Wall- 9.5/10
Mama Told Me Not to Come- 3/10
Since I Told You It's Over- 10/10
MovieStar- 10/10
Not up to You- 10/10
Getaway- 8/10
I Stopped to Fill my Car Up- 10/10
Carrot Cake and Wine- 9/10
Billy Davey's Daughter- 9.5/10
Raymond's Shop- 10/10
Stone- 10/10
I'm Alright- 9.5/10
First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, ft. Jools Holland- 10/10
Same Size Feet- 9.5/10
She Takes Her Clothes Off- 10/10
Hurry Up and Wait- 10/10

By far the greatest album I have ever listened to! I'd forgotten about some of their earlier hits so it was good to hear them again. But yeah, definitely the best album I've ever listened to. 67485/10

MrGaryy

31-12-2008, 02:25 AM

http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii62/thebiggerbrother/200px-The_pussycat_dolls_doll_domin.jpg

Pussycat Dolls - Doll Domination

01. When I Grow Up - Great track, perfect song to launch their return. It delivers the same catchy riff as Don't Cha, but comes across more sophiscated. [9/10]

02. Bottle Pop - The first filler of the album. A below average track featuring Snoop Dogg, it lacks that punch. Nothing to make me give it a second listen. The lryics leave much to be desired, a poor choice for fourth single. [4/10]

03. Watcha Think About That - Although this song flopped as second single in the states, it's one of my standouts from the album. A cool, relaxed midtempo, with a rap from Missy Elliot towards the end. [8/10]

04. I Hate This Part - Easily one of the best tracks of 2008, one of my personal faves off the record. Nicole delivers perfect vocals throughout, although I would've preferred to have heard from the other girls too. A perfect "token ballad" for the group. [9/10]

05. Takin' Over The World - Yet another lack lusture filler. It completely lack an substance. Also lets us know, that this isn't the Pussycat Dolls, it's Nicole and her back dancers.[7/10]

06. Out Of This Club - Nothing more than a crappy rip off of Usher's Love In This Club. R.Kelly also makes a poor contribution. The whole thing stenches of an R.Kelly filler, which makes sense considering he produced the track. [3/10]

07. Who's Gonna Love You - The group manage to some what redeem themselves with this track. A decent beat, accompanied by Nicole's breathy vocals, the two work well together. A good chorus. [6/10]

08. Happily Never After - This Ne-Yo produced track can only be described as a well above average ballad. The chorus is perfection, it's cookie cutting pleasure. [7/10]

09. Magic - The most solid track on the record since IHTP. It has a dark urban feel to it. There's something captivating about it. [7/10]

10. Halo - Things are looking up for Doll Domination now, as the girls deliver another mid-tempo wonder. It's spooky beat and chilling vocals make it one of the best from the whole record. [8.5/10]

11. In Person - Kind of a 50's feel to this next song. Upbeat and fierce, reminds me a little of Alesha Dixon's The Boy Does Nothing. Although the chorus and lyrics aren't on bar with the rest, it's a decent, solid track none the less. [7.5/10]

12. Elevator - Melody Thornton delivers the first solo from anything the other girls on the whole album. A little bland, but the bridge is catchy and overall, an above average song from the Dolls. [8/10]

13. Hush Hush - Another favourite of mine. The killer lyrics and addictive beat create a fusion of perfection. Has a sort of Timbaland feel to it. Nicole's vocals fit perfectly. - [9/10]

14. Love The Way You Love Me - The girls slip up a little on this one. It comes out a little untidy, constantly change beat and genre's. The vocals are poor all round and the chorus is tripe. [4/10]

15. Whatchamacallit - They girls go back to their roots with this fun, silly but sexy track. They bring it up a notch though, making it more grown up sounding. [7/10]

16. I'm Done - The album "closes" on this nice little piano ballad, with you guessed it - Nicole taking lead vocals! A good track though, different anything they've done before. [6/10]
----------------------------------------------------------------------

17.Lights, Camera, Action - The first of two bonus tracks is this upbeat track featuring reformed boyband, New Kids On The Block. The New Kids, make a decent contribution to the song. The chorus is very catchy and the song overall works well as a bonus track. [9/10]

18.Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps - This is a cover of a song originally written in Spanish and has been covered numerous times. It's a decent bonus track with a sexy, Latina kick, but nothing spectacular.

Overall
6.5/10
Although not as consistent as the Dolls' debut album PCD, it's a decent attempt from the girls. Marks taken away due it being so Nicole dominated. They have shown they are developing as an artist with the inclusion of more ballads. It's nothing spectacular, but a decent attempt.

Fom

31-12-2008, 02:28 AM

Katy Perry - One of the boys

RUBBISH!!! DO NOT GET IT!!!

:spin:

GhettoSuperstar

31-12-2008, 05:06 PM

Originally posted by Fom
Katy Perry - One of the boys

RUBBISH!!! DO NOT GET IT!!!

:spin:

Honestly, it needs to click with you. I didn't get into it at first but it then grabs you and ****s you up. :laugh:

*mazedsalv**

31-12-2008, 05:36 PM

Britney- Circus

I think the album is really good and is on par with Blackout, I cant decide which one is my favourite.

1. Womaniser- Catchy and is for everyone I think, but the word "Womaniser" must be said a zillion times. Great lead single. 7/10

2. Circus- Fantastic 2nd choice single, its really good, and its something to all enjoy, the music video is fantastic, and I loved the part where Britney and her dancers "break it down" 8.5/10

3. Out From Under- Not special at all, dare I say, I find it a bit boring, there doesnt seem to be much to get excited about it. Yes,. britney's vocal are beautiful in the song, but it doesnt do anything for me. 4/10

4. Kill The Lights- Now thats what I call a tune!! The beats are incredible, and its just the greatest song to dance too, one of those songs that you can listen in a car full blast with the window open and not feel embarassed. Fantastic. 10/10

5. Shattered Glass- It has a great start and lyrics are good, and is seen as a fan fave, even though I like it, i think its a bit too overrated. 7.5/10

6. If You Seek Amy- Very strong song, and is loved by almost everyone, its incredibly catchy and very clever... its a sort of Katy Perry'ish song and is very addictive. And people who dont get it, might wonder "Who's Amy?" well if you listen to it carefully you will get it :). 8.5/10

7. Unusual You- Wow!!! By Far the best ballad on the album, and the 2nd best ballad that Britney has done, first being Everytime. Its soo beautiul and emotional and the lyrics are incredible.This is coming from someone whi dislikes ballads. 10/10

8. Blur- Its just there to make the numbers in my opinion, nothing major going on, yess it is sweet, but its not that great. Well i have grown to like it a tiny bit more than first but its still one of the weakest in the album along with Out From Under and My Baby. 4.5/10

9. Mmm Papi- Mmmm indeed. Its tasty!! When I first heard this I hated it, but i did not prepare to grow on the song this much, i love the whole rhthym of the song, The whole song reminds me of something P!nk would do. People may call it a immature song, but who cares?? Its fun, bubbly and enjoyable. 9/10

10. Mannequinn- One word.... Incredible!! I have no other words. Its such a powerful song if you look at the lyrics and the beats are ON FIRE, its soo catchy and its truely one of her best songs ever. 10/10

11. Lace and Leather- Funky and Jarimiquai style, it has a nice disco sound to it. 7.5/10

12. My Baby- Ohh dear.... im sorry Britney, but its not a great song, I have to admit. Its a bit boring, kind of makes me want to be depressed for all eternity, I skip this song all the time now.

Bonus Tracks:

Radar- Its a good song, but it really didnt have to be on here, a bit pointless. 6.5/10

14. Rock Me In- Very good song, it has a strong rock feel to it, just like "I Love Rock n' Roll". 8/10

15. Phonograpghy- Amazing beats.... yess teh lyrics are a bit weird but its a HOT song. 9/10

16. Trouble- LOVE IT!! It should have been on the actual album, it would have massive potnetial... the beats are sick!! 9.5/10

Not much of an opinion of Amnesia, Quicksand and Rock Boy, there all a 6/10 for me, they are average.

Overall- 8.5/10.... The album is sooo good!!!!

M X

31-12-2008, 05:52 PM

http://i41.tinypic.com/350wdur.jpg
Girls Aloud - Out of Control

1). The Promise - a catchy, fun track which will be stuck in your head for days. [7/10]

2). The Loving Kind - A great pop-dance track with that element of Tangled Up's "Call The Shots". The slowness of the track really drags you into the story. [8/10]

3). Rolling Back the Rivers in Time - A track which can be boring, it gets old towards the end. [4/10]

4). Love is the Key - Nothing special, a filler. [2/10]

5). Turn to Stone - A track which is very forgetable, it's not something that stays in your mind.[2/10]

6). Untouchable - a song which tries to hard to be a big epic ballad as it drags on for about ten minutes. [3/10]

7). Fix Me Up - A great, catchy track which is a mix of bubblegum pop, electronica & hip-hop. [9/10]

8). Love is Pain - Another filler which will be forgotten. Very plain. [4/10]

9). Miss You Bow Wow - a song which is lyrically cheeky & quick but fails to have the "oommf" impact it should & tries to have. You should get up on your feet and dance to a song like this but it fails to get you excited. [6/10]

10). Revolution in the Head - A plain filler. [2/10]

11). Live in the Country - A song which is fun and will stick in your head but can be very annoying. [7/10]

12). We Wanna Party - A fast, up-beat track. Girls Aloud going back to their days at St. Trinians, perhaps? [7/10]

Conclusion -

Not Girls Aloud best work. In my ears, their worst album. On first listens to might think "Wow.. this is great" but then realise it's full to the top of boring fillers which won't keep you having a good time & being entertained. For an album called Out of Control it's pretty boring.

Recommended Tracks -

The Promise
The Loving Kind
Fix Me Up
Live in the Country

--

**/*****
2 out of five stars.
four of out ten.

M X

31-12-2008, 06:26 PM

http://www.musicloversgroup.com/images/Katy-Perry-One-of-the-Boys-Album-Cover.jpg
Katy Perry - One of the Boys

She's been called the American version of Lily Allen and has broken records with her controversial pop record "I Kissed A Girl" which has turned into one of the most successfull songs of 2008. But was the success just because of the controversy and is the album that good or did she use the shock-tactic? This is my opinion;

1). One of the Boys - the album's title track & a fun, rock-pop song with shouty-vocals by Perry. A great song! [9/10]

2). I Kissed A Girl - a song which has turned heads, pricked ears & widened mouths but it honestly is a great tune. [9/10]

3). Waking Up In Vegas - a brilliant pop-rock song by Perry with more shouty-vocals and fantastic, unusual lyrics! [9/10]

4). Thinking of You - the third single from the album and the first ballad. It's a nice ballad and puts you in a mellow mood. Not the best song, but good. [6.5/10]

5). Mannequin - a great, up-beat love song about a man who shows no emotions. [8/10]

6). Ur So Gay - was released before the album & is different to all of the other tracks. It has more of a folk influence and many have critizised the song by saying it is homophobic. To me, I don't see it as homophobic as if you listen to the lyrics she isn't saying he is gay & is talking about someone she goes out with. [4.1/10]

7). Hot N Cold - probably the best track on the album. A great pop-rock-electronica track which is one of the best songs of the year. You will be singing it for days! [9.7/10]

8). If You Can Afford Me - A good track but seems like a bit of a filler - not the best but still a good song. [5.7/10]

9). Lost - a nice song but a bit samey as a few songs out at the moment. [5.5/10]

10). Self Inflicted - A great track which tells the story of being hurt [8/10]

11). I'm Still Breathing - a bit of a filler but a good song & strong lyrics & vocals by Perry. [7/10]

12). Fingerprints - a great track which sticks in your mind [6.8/10]

Bonus tracks-

13). I Kissed A Girl (Rock Mix) - Fantastic! I can see it live on the stage & is a great mix! [9.8/10]

Conclusion -
A fantastic album full of up-beat dance pounding and fun tracks and a few ballads. The answer to if she used the shock-tactic is - Maybe she did to promote but the album is great, so not to boost the credibility of the record.

Recommended Tracks -
One of the Boys
I Kissed A Girl
Waking Up In Vegas
Mannequin
Hot N Cold
I'm Still Breathing
I Kissed A Girl (Rock Mix).

---
****/*****
4 out of five stars.
8 out of ten.

M X

31-12-2008, 06:50 PM

http://i40.tinypic.com/w1v90x.jpg
Lady GaGa - The Fame

She's been called the female version of Queen and has been one of the hottest acts on the New York City club curcuit since she was fifteen. She is signed to Kon Live, a division of Interscope, and works regulary with hip-hop star Akon. Gaga, well known for her unusual fashion sense & electro-hip-hop-David Bowie esque- music is nominated for a Grammy.

1). Just Dance - One of the best electronica-dance songs for years. Her flamboyant vocals blend perfectly with the robotic beats. [10/10]

2). LoveGame - robotic beats & vocals from Gaga, a great song! [9/10]

3). Paparazzi - a beautiful up-beat dance song! [9/10]

4). Poker Face - the second from the album & a fantastic song with deep vocals from Miss. Gaga! [10/10]

5). Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) - an electronica-ballad & the perfect dance ballad. Her voice is well shown off in this stunning track! [9/10]

6). Beautiful, Dirty, Rich - third single from the album(?). A fantastic song! [10/10]

7). The Fame - the title track & a superb tune! [10/10]

8). Money Honey - Gaga continues to supply us with amazing dance tracks with this killer tune! [8.7/10]

9). Starstruck (feat. Flo Rida & Space Cowboy) - A brilliant electro-pop song, full of theatrical lyrics! [10/10]

10). Boys, Boys, Boys - A fantastic song! [9.4/10]

11). Paper Gangsta - Another great track <3 [8.9/10]

12). Brown Eyes - another ballad which really shows off her similarites to Queen, The Beatles, Elton John etc. one of the best ballads in years! [10/10]

13). I Like it Rough - Pure heaven! [9/10]

14). Summerboy - Great song! [8.5/10]

Conclusion -
My favourite album (tied with Britney Spears's Circus).
THE WORLD IS GOING TO GO GAGA FOR THIS LADY - IT'S LADY GAGA!

Recommended Tracks -
Every single one. There isn't one single filler.

---
*****/*****
5 out of five stars
10 out of ten.[/i]

Princess

31-12-2008, 06:56 PM

Condensed album reviews.

Britney-Circus
9/10
Really good album,much better than Blackout. Love it. Some songs are bad,some a bit meh,but most are brill
Fav-Circus
Least Fav-MMM Papi

The Saturdays-Chasing Lights
10/10
Amazing every album,love every song. No fillers
Fav-Fall
Least fav-Lies/Work(but only cos I had to)

Beyonce-I Am..... Sasha Fierece
10/10 and 7/10
I love I Am but don't really like Sasha Fierce. I Am is incredible.
Fav-Broken-Hearted Girls
Least fav-Sweet Dreams

Christina Aguilera-Greatest Hits
10/10(maybe 11)
Amazing collection and from an unbelievable artist.
Fav-Come On Over Baby(All I Want Us You)
Least fav-Nobody Wants To Be Lonely

Snow Patrol-A Hundred Million Suns
10/10
I seem to be liking all these albums,lol. But this one is fantastic. May even beat Final Straw as my favourite SP album.
Fav-Lifeboats/Disaster Button
Least fav-Take Back The City(this was a single why?)

Sugababes-Catfights and Spotlights
9/10
Adore it,although prefer Change.
Fav-Every Heart Broken/Unbreakable Heart
Least fav-Beware

Still have Boyzone,Leon Jackson,Adele,Girls Aloud,Anastacia,Pink and Stereophonics to do!

Damaris

31-12-2008, 07:16 PM

The Ting Tings-We started nothing

1.Great DJ.

Wow, this track is fantastic with an infectious guitatar beat and a catchy chorus its hard not to enjoy.

[8/10]

2.Thats not my name.

Well its not hard to see why this is the single that was released first,this song i full of attitude and Katie Whites vocals add frustration to the song which makes it the more better.

[9/10]

3.Fruit Machine

The lyrics are very good and theres also a very good beat to the song but it seems as if the The Ting Tings songs are getting a bit repetitive but still a good song.

[7/10]

4.Traffic Light.

A nice change in pace here,this song is one of the albums hilights it shows a different side of the group.The song also shows how good Katie can sing.

[9/10]

5.Shut up and let me go.

This a brilliant song which will get you singing along.The song also has an Electro indie vibe to it aswell. This is another Highlight of the album

[9/10]

6.Keep you head.

One of my favourites of the album,this song has catchy lyrics and a nice beat.This is a song most indie bands would die for.This has to be released.

[9/10]

7.Be the one.

This song is a very soft indie song.But it wrks a treat,Katie Whites vocals are almost sooothing in the song.This song is very good.

[8/10]

8.We Walk.

WOW.This song is one of the best songs of the year.Again the lyrics stand out but this song will also get you singing along this song is the best song on the album

[10/10]

9.Imprilla Caprisung.

Huh what is this?.I cant sing along to this its not really that catchy.But something makes me want to listen to it more its an okay song.

[6/10]

10.We Started Nothing.

What a great finish.Ths is 6 minutes long but out of all those are worth it amazing.

[10/10]

Overall: 8.5/10

Shaun

01-01-2009, 07:05 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/47/Killers_day_age.jpg/200px-Killers_day_age.jpg
-----------------------------
Album: Day & Age
Artist: The Killers
Running Time: 41:49
Release Date: November 23rd 2008 [UK]
-----------------------------
Brief Summary: Fans of The Killers' previous material may find this album to be a change of scenery, particularly in contrast to Sam's Town. The general feel is a lot less gritty and a lot more 80s-inspired. The majesty, however, remains and whilst it isn't in the form of strong vocals as found on previous songs such as "Bones" or "This River Is Wild", this time it seems to be more focused in the music itself.
-----------------------------
Song-by-song review:
1. Losing Touch - As album introductions go, this isn't spectacular. However, it does well to set the scene for the rest to come: a sense of euphoria and delirium, ignoring the lyrics ("impending doom" aptly summarizes the general feel of this, and other following tracks). 6.0/10
2. Human - The debut single from the album saw modest success in the UK charts (peaking at #3), but is one of their best singles to date. Although the "sing-along" factor found in previous hits such as "Mr. Brightside" or "All These Things I've Done" may have dissipated somewhat, the lyrical confusion aside, the ambiance makes it suitable for either dancefloor or car radio. It can't really go wrong, perhaps explaining the only main criticism to be against the chorus' grammar. 8.5/10
3. Spaceman - The tempo is raised for the second single from the album, and grabs the attention of your ears. Also more singalong-friendly if you ask me, with chants of "Oh"s to please even the least talented of karaoke-wannabes. 7.0/10
4. Joy Ride - A disco/funk bass underlines and emphasizes the return to harmless fun that initially grabbed us in "Hot Fuss", this wouldn't be out of place on a tracklist from KC & The Sunshine Band, Flowers' noticeable vocals aside. 7.5/10
5. A Dustland Fairytale - We're brought down to Earth here for a more sensitive ballad, with only piano and Flowers to guide us through the opening minute. Guitars kick in eventually and you get the feeling that this is set to be a crowd-pleaser, with suitable levels of adrenaline for Flowers to perform as he does well. 8.5/10
6. This Is Your Life - No Michael Aspel or red books here, but a real foot-tapper instead. However, you get the feeling that the song doesn't really amount to its potential, with no crescendo (such found in the previous track). 5.5/10
7. I Can't Stay - With a similar beginning baseline to that of Dexy's Midnight Runners' "Come On Eileen" one can't help but feel a tinge of disappointment at the lack of opportunity to don the dungarees and sing "too-ra-loo-ra" progressively louder. Back to this song, it's my personal favourite of the album. Easy on the ear and friendly to the feet, I challenge you not to sway along. 9.0/10
8. Neon Tiger - One would think they were auditioning to be the next James Bond theme tune. This offering is one of the few hints of "Sam's Town", quite reminiscent of "When You Were Young" but without the gutsy, gritty undertones. 6.5/10
9. The World We Live In - You can't help but feel that the Killers are taking themselves far too seriously with the introduction to this song, it could even pass off as a self-mockery; it's that blatant. Evidently they didn't take note from Sum 41's message of "All Killer No Filler", because for every "Human" and "Spaceman" Killer there's a fairly poor Filler under track nine. 4.5/10
10. Goodnight, Travel Well - A sinister tone lingers on some brass instrument of some variety. Flowers' whispered vocals slowly, and I mean slowly, progress into...well, something. At 6:53 this is far too dreary for me and I suspect many other fans of the Killers' typical bursts of energy found in songs such as "Somebody Told Me". 5.5/10
11. A Crippling Blow - To see us out of the album [or at least the UK version; the iTunes/US equivalent offers two more tracks: "Tidal Wave" and "Forget What I Said".] the tone is thankfully lifted again and we say goodbye to the Killers for another two years or so with a real stomping, crippling blow. 8.0/10
-----------------------------
Overall: Fans of Hot Fuss will love it, fans of Sam's Town might not. But there's something for everyone here and although it might not seem to be, perhaps, complete, it does help to have a bit of variety now and then.
Overall rating: 7.5/10

M X

04-01-2009, 02:28 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/72/Take_That_The_Circus.JPG
Take That - The Circus

The Garden - 9/10
Greatest Day - 9.1/10
Hello -[/b] 4/10
Said it All -[/b]6/10
Julie -[/b] 10/10
The Circus-[/b] 9/10
How Did it Come to This -[/b] 7.1/10
Up All Night -[/b] 9/10
What is Love - 6.9/10
You - 8.1/10
Hold up a Light -[/b] 9.1/10
Here -[/b] 6.9/10
She Said -[/b] 8.9/10

Overall- 7/10

Recommed Tracks-
The Garden
Greatest Day
Julie
The Circus
Hold up a Light
She Said

--

I enjoyed this record and I think it's a big step foward from the slightly dire Beautiful World. Kudos to Take That for making a killer album!

--
Julie is the best track on the album & I strongly recommend it!

--

***1/2/*****
3 and a half stars
7 out of ten.

Princess

04-01-2009, 04:08 PM

^Loads of people seem to love Julie,its between that and Up All Night for next single.

KKBL

04-01-2009, 04:11 PM

Originally posted by Princess

Least fav-Sweet Dreams

:shocked:seriously?its my favourite!

Princess

04-01-2009, 04:12 PM

Originally posted by KKBL
Originally posted by Princess

Least fav-Sweet Dreams

:shocked:seriously?its my favourite!

I based most of those reviews on one listen,I actually liked most of her album,I just chose that one.

KKBL

04-01-2009, 04:28 PM

Leona Lewis
Spirit : The Deluxe Edition
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/91/Spirit_Deluxe_Edition.jpg

1.Bleeding Love - 10/10
2.Whatever It Takes (US Mix) - 9/10
ahhhhh,why on earth was the epic gospel choir removed?
3.Homeless (2008 Mix) - 7/10
sounds the exact same to me...
4.Better In Time (Single Mix) - 8/10
cant decide if i prefer the album version.
5.Yesterday - 7/10
6.Take A Bow - 10/10
Ryan Tedder is a ledgend!
7.I Will Be - 8/10
much better then Avril's version
8.Angel - 9/10
9.Here I Am - 5/10
Ive never realy warmed to this song,i never listen to it
10.Im You - 2/10
Ne Yo is an amazing writer but this is pure crap.
11.The Best You Never Had - 7/10
cheesy but i love it!
12.The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - 4/10
Ive never realy warmed to this song,i never listen to it
13.Footprints In The Sand - 10/10
such a touching song
14.A Moment Like This - 7/10
much better then Kelly's version
15.Forgive Me - 10/10
16.Misses Glass - 7/10
shows a more urban side to Leona
17.Run - 10/10

M X

04-01-2009, 07:03 PM

http://www5.famille.ne.jp/~nandaya/LATOYA.gif
LaToya Jackson - LaToya
Year of Release - 1988

[i]1. You're Gonna' Get Rocked! [9.1/10]
2. You Blew [9/10]
3. Such a Wicked Love [7/10]
4. Not Giving Up on Love [8/10]
5. If I Could Get to You [duet with John Pagano][7.1/10]
6. Turn on the Radio [9.7/10]
7. Just Say No [7.1/10]
8. Does It Really Matter [6.9/10]
9. (Tell Me) She Means Nothing To You At All [7.8/10]
10. (Ain't Nobody Loves You) Like I Do [8.1/10]

--Overall--

A good pop/R&B record with great vocals by LaToya!
****/*****
4 out of five stars.

Locke.

05-01-2009, 07:47 PM

http://i40.tinypic.com/2vs2il4.jpg

Coolio - Fantastic Voyage: Greatest Hits

1. Fantastic Voyage - 10/10
2. Gangsta's Paradise - 10/10
3. C U When You Get There - 10/10
4. Too Hot - 8.5/10
5. Aw Here It Goes - 7/10
6. Ooh La La - 5/10
7. I Remember - 10/10
8. 1, 2, 3, 4, Slumpin' New - 9/10
9. Hit 'em - 4/10
10. Mama I'm In Love With a Gangsta - 10/10
11. My Soul - 8/10
12. Country Line - 7/10
13. Geto Highlights - 10/10

Overall- 9/10

GhettoSuperstar

05-01-2009, 08:15 PM

The Jonas Brothers - A Little Bit Longer (2008)

http://www.nickjonline.com/update-images/NJOalbl_cover.png

01. BB Good [8.5/10] - A good opening track with elements of the 2nd album but a little more mature.
02. Burnin' Up [10/10] - A really different direction for the guys. Really fresh and its so perfect. Amazing video too.
03. Shelf [10/10] - Another potential single. Great guitar. Love it.
04. One Man Show [10/10] - Love the echoey chorus. Brilliance.
05. Lovebug [9/10] - The 2nd single off the album, had mixed reviews from fans but is subtly charming.
06. Tonight [10/10] - I love this song so much I gives me the tingles. Epic. Amazing. You'd be silly not to like this song.
07. Can't Have You [9/10] - Builds up really well. Another big chorus. Can't complain really.
08. Video Girl [10/10] - Screams "single material!". Again, something different from the band.
09. Pushin' Me Away [10/10] - Another favourite from the the album. There is an orgasmic moment in the song. Try and look out for it.
10. Sorry [7.5/10] - Not as good as the ballads on the previous album but still a great listen.
11. Got Me Going Crazy [10/10] - Orgasmic guitar, vocals, kick ass chorus. I think the darkness of the guitar should have been more consistent throughout the song but its sex.
12. A Little Bit Longer [8.5/10] - Simple but effective. Again, like almost every song of theirs it was written by them so it means something.
13. When You Look Me In The Eyes [9/10] - Placed on for the UK release. Sexual ballad. Very good indeed.
14. Live To Party [10/10] - **** me a good way to end the album. Energetic and Jonas-y. Love it!

Overall I think its one of the best albums I own. Can't get bored of it really. Maybe its not for everyone, it took me a while to get into their music but I'm hooked to them right now. The fact they write buckets full of songs and play instruments and are good live is very respectable.
10/10

MrGaryy

05-01-2009, 08:35 PM

http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii62/thebiggerbrother/Madge.png

Madonna - Hard Candy

01. Candy Shop - In keeping with the record's Hard Candy theme, the album opens with this cool but bland mid tempo track. The whole song makes no real impact and sound more like an interlude than a bonafied album track.[6/10]

02. 4 Minutes - This Timbaland produced track is catchy to say the least. The perfect choice for lead single as it immediatly lets us know that Madge has left her disco ball behind her and is now trying her hand at R'n'B. Justin Timberlake also makes a decent contribution [9/10]

03. Give It 2 Me - Though it irritated me at first it quickly grew on me and was a wise choice for second single. It's cool beat is accompanied well by Madonna's squeaky vocals and Pharell Williams' commentary. [8/10]

04. Heartbeat - Getting a little samey with this above average filler. The lyrics can only be described as very amatuer sounding. Not worth a second listen. [5/10]

05. Miles Away - Though this next track failed as third single due to lack of promotion, not even a music video, it;s one of my standouts from the album. Written by Madonna, she speaks of her soon to be ex husband, Guy Ritchie:"You always love me more when we're miles away". The slick acoustic beat works well. [8.5/10]

06. She's Not Me - The fierce lyrics of this track are brought down by the so-so beat. There seems to be no real melody, nothing but Madonna's only average vocals. It sounds like Nelly Furtado cast off. It also drags on a little, as the track is more than 6 minutes long. [5.5/10]

07. Incredible - A pretty average filler, though it does get better as it goes on, with more rock influences showing. Nothing more to say really.[4.5/10]

08. Beat Goes On - Perhaps third single? Another catchy sing-along tune, great bridge, but like many others seems a bit lack luster. One of the better ones though.[6/10]

09. Dance 2night - Though lyrically, this track leaves much to be desired, the chorus is chirpy and feel good, and JT makes a brief but satisfying appearance at the beginning. It is surprisingly one my my personal favourites. [7/10]

10. Spanish Lesson - This J.Lo reject is easily one of the worst from Hard Candy. Dated beats and a tacky theme. Really dislike it, Madonna's voice does not mesh well with the Latino melody.[3/10]

11. Devil Wouldn't Recognize You - Kind of has a bit of a Britney/Blur vibe to it. Actually not that bad, surpassed my initial expectations. Of the two tracks that even edge towards a ballad, it is the weaker, but still on the better side of this record. [6.5/10]

12. Voices - Intriguing intro, however it goes slightly downhill from there. The verses are chilling and spooky, but the chorus kills the hype, coming across distinctly lack luster, not the worst on here by far, but not even close to the best. Worth a second listen [6/10]

Overall
6.5/10
This album makes a statement - Madonna is just about past it. One of the weakest offerings in years from the Queen of Pop, she comes across sounding like Nelly Furtado in a mid life crisis. The best on here are average and the album is extremly samey, I found some tracks running into one and other. The lyrics a very poor. This is a major step down from the fantastic Confessions On A Dancefloor.

M X

06-01-2009, 04:24 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/9f/AmericanLife2003.png
Madonna - American Life
Release Date - April 22, 2003

1. American Life [5.7/10]
2. Hollywood [9.7/10]
3. I'm So Stupid [6/10]
4. Love Profusion [7.9/10]
5. Nobody Knows Me [4.8/10]
6. Nothing Fails [8.9/10]
7. Intervention [7/10]
8. X-Static Process [6.9/10]
9. Mother and Father [5.8/10]
10. Die Another Day [9.7/10]
11. Easy Ride [5.6/10]

[b]Not Madonna's best work but still a good album. I recommed Hollywood, Die Another Day, Love Profusion & Nothing Fails. The album seems to have plently fillers, unfortunatley.

Altogether: -
7 out of 10
***/*****
3 out of five stars[b]

MrGaryy

06-01-2009, 06:46 PM

I love this thread sooooo much. <3

Although I do think it's kinda pointless when people just give each song marks out of ten.

LemonJam

06-01-2009, 07:08 PM

Not that I'd expect anybody here to like them :tongue:

The Cure - 4:13 Dream

1. Underneath the Stars

Good striking introduction, suited title very nicely. Something you can really easily chill to. Very ambient music. Jingling in it came across as a bit cheesy. Around 2 minutes in it gets really emotive and beautiful. Robert Smiths vocals then come then come in to make it even more relaxed. The vocals are relativley difficult to hear however. This track isn't to everyones taste as it can across as repetitive and dire. Ending is really beautiful and emotive.

Rating - 8/10

2. The Only One

Really quite happy with that doomy feel still incorporated. Has that poppy feel to it. However, I do think that Robert Smith vocals do go a bit overboard on this track. Ending is a bit too abrupt.

Rating - 8/10

3. The Reasons Why

Soft but understated introduction. Parts blend together nicely. Robert Smiths vocals yet again portray the lyrics beautifully. Yet again, it gets quite ambient in the middle.

Rating - 8/10

4. Freakshow

Much different to the other tracks so far, has a very poppy feel to it. Effect used on the guitar really adds another level to the song. Simply just a really cool track. Does also come across as quite samba styled at points. Abrupt ending again

Rating - 8/10

5. Sirensong

Relaxing and soothing like a siren, portrays the song perfectly. Gets complex and weird towards the end.

Rating - 7/10

6. The Real Snow White

Again, an interesting track with buzz to it. Again, the parts blend together quite nicely. Really quite loyal of their doomy style.

Rating - 7/10

7. The Hungry Ghost

One of their less ambient tracks (weird considering the title), but the scratching effect n the guitar comes across as quite annoying. I feel the song is alot better without it. Roberts vocals are pretty top on this one. Didn't really portray the title, but generally a decent song.

Rating - 7/10

8. Switch

Annoying and pointless intro but then FINALLY a fast track. Very ambient again. Use of piano really adds to song. Even though the track is fast, I found it really dire with nothing to it that jumps out except the piano.

Rating - 5/10

9. The Perfect Boy

Starts off boring, but when the drums come in and it gets louder, it starts to make sense. Gradually as the track goes on, it really goes on.

Rating - 6/10

10. This. Here and Now. With You.

Definatley not the most conforming introduction. The Chorus is where the song really picks up. As much as I love alternative vocals, Roberts comes across as almost... pervy in this track. Another one which sadly starts to drag on. Over-synthed.

Rating - 5/10

11. Sleep When I'm Dead

Another fast track which picks up from the past two dire and lackluster tracks. But eventually, even this started to drag on.

Rating - 6/10

12. The Scream

Something different, thats for sure. Quite reminiscent of earlier styles. Had an arabic feel to it. The track gets stronger towards the end and more emotive, Robert singing every word with meaning. Another half-arsed ending.

Rating - 5/10

13. It's Over

Really strong metal inspired introduction, but then goes into quite an interesting combination with the bass, guitars and drums. Definatley woke me up, sounds pretty inspired by 80's rock. Vocals only come in after 2 and a half minutes. Nicely pulled off.

Rating - 8/10

Overall
I think I've figured out why the Cures music tends to disapoint. They have a tendancy to use an interesting idea, but then they overuse it, which is really a shame seeing as they're one of the most influential bands in rock music (IMO)

Another thing that bothered me with the album was the fact that it was so overhauled with effects that it made the songs drag on even further, the use of echoes was also overhauled giving a slow and dragging feel.

Sadly, no tracks reached above 8 on this album. There wasn't one track on there that would be my song of the moment. Quite alot of good song on there, but with the way that the Cure drag their sound along the floor, theres no way you can get into a song which is just the same idea all the way through.

Generally on the whole, a fair attempt at an album, with some fantastic ideas and a real cohesion to the tracks, sadly these ideas are kept running until they're dragged on the floor and eventually collapse.

Overall Score - 68%

Stu

06-01-2009, 07:11 PM

Originally posted by LemonJam
Not that I'd expect anybody here to like them :tongue:

Think again, the Cure are fantastic! My parents still blame Robert Smith as the main cause of me having my hair in a shaggy backcomb for about a year.

M X

06-01-2009, 07:46 PM

http://991.com/newGallery/Amy-Winehouse-Frank-397036.jpg
Amy Winehouse - Frank
Year of Release - 2003

The debut album from the soul-singing and now world phenomenon Amy Winehouse.

INTRO- A fiesty little intro which gets you ready for the album. [7/10]

1. Stronger than Me - a fantastic urban-soul track, the best soul song in recent years. She manages to combines shacky vocals with a fantastic voice and lyrics which draw you into the song. You can really hear a story.

2. You Sent me Flying - I love this track. A great blues track.

3. Know You Now - Lovley.. and makes you release that she could be the next big superstar.

4. ****** Me Pumps - The other best song on the record.

5. I Heard Love Is Blind - a beautiful vocal & great lyrics. Not the best on the album, but still great.

6. Moody's Mood For Love - Like the above, not the best but still beautiful.

7. (There Is) No Greater Love - Lyrics are pure gold.

8. In My Bed - Great song, draws you in.

9. Take The Box - the other best song on the record, love it!

10. October Song - great!!

11. What is it About Men - a song which lyrically delierves a great song, just like her voice and delievery.

12. Help Yourself - a song which can get boring to the end but ultimatley is great.

13. Amy Amy Amy - a fantastic urban blues-soul song!

OUTRO - A great outro.

--Overall--

A stunning debut with some fantastic blues-soul songs!
****1/2/*****
4 and a half out of five
9 out of ten!

Damaris

06-01-2009, 08:58 PM

Im seeing The Cure live hopefully with Crystal Castles supporting.:wink:

xDramatick

06-01-2009, 09:11 PM

Originally posted by Stu
Originally posted by LemonJam
Not that I'd expect anybody here to like them :tongue:

Think again, the Cure are fantastic! My parents still blame Robert Smith as the main cause of me having my hair in a shaggy backcomb for about a year.

I <3 The Cure toooo.

I agree with Gazbo though.
Too many 'OMG EVERY SONG IS GREAT 10/10, 9/10'.
It's hardly a review, it's just rating the songs from an album you love :\

M X

08-01-2009, 05:16 PM

http://www.a1tunes.net/pics/latoya.jpg
LaToya Jackson - From Nashville to You
Year of Release - 1994[i]

1. Fanfare - Intro - [9.7/10]
2. Burnin' Love - [7.8/10]
3. So In Love with You [8.9/10]
4. Georgia Dreamin' - [7.2/10]
5. I've Got to Be Bad - [6.8/10]
6. Crazy - [7.9/10]
7. Trash Like You - [8.8/10]
8. Another Hear - [9.1/10]
9. Dance Away These Blues Tonight - [9/10]
10. Boots - [7/10]
11. What You Don't Say - [6.7/10]
12. Little Misunderstood - [5/10]
13. One Strike You're Out - [6.9/10]
14. Break a Leg - [8.1/10][i]

--Overall--
A great Country/soul/disco/R&B album which has many songs sticking in your head for ages.

***1/2/*****
3 and a half out of five
7.8/10
7.8 out of ten

M X

08-01-2009, 05:55 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/8f/Stopinthenameoflovefrontcdalbum.jpg/200px-Stopinthenameoflovefrontcdalbum.jpg
LaToya Jackson - Stop in the Name of Love
Year of Release - 1995

1. Tracks of My Tears [8/10]
2. Two Lovers [9/10]
3. I Can't Help Myself [7.6/10]
4. Baby I Need Your Loving [6/10]
5. Stop in the Name of Love (The Remix) [9.7/10]
6. Baby Love [7.7/10]
7. Someday We'll Be Together [5/10]
8. My Guy [8.8/10]
9. Love Child [7/10]
10. Tears of a Clown [9.3/10]
11. Stop in the Name of Love (Album Version) [9.9/10]
12. I'll Be There [8.1/10]

--Overall--
A fantastic album filled with incredible beats & dance-pop songs which make you want to dance!
****1/2/*****
4 and a half out of five
9/10
9 out of ten

M X

08-01-2009, 09:50 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/8f/The_Satz.jpg/200px-The_Satz.jpg
The Saturdays - Chasing Lights
Year of Release - 2008

1. If This Is Love [8.1/10]
2. Up [9.8/10]
3. Keep Her [7/10]
4. Issues [10/10]
5. Lies [7/10]
6. Work [7.9/10]
7. Chasing Lights [9/10]
8. Set Me Off [8.9/10]
9. Fall [7.1/10]
10. Vulnerable [7/10]
11. Why Me, Why Now [7/10]
12. Up (Wideboys Radio Edit) [9.1/10]

--Overall--
Probably one of the best pop records of 2008. The Saturdays show their vocal talent and great sense of storytelling in this killer album. "Issues" is my favourite song on the album. It has a certain vibe which makes you unable to control the fact your getting totally lost in the record.
****1/2/*****
4 and a half out of five
9 out of ten

M X

10-01-2009, 12:13 AM

http://www.alexnelson.eu/albums/Grace%20Jones%20-%201980%20-%20warm%20leatherette.jpg
Grace Jones - Warm Leatherette
Year of Release - 1980

SIDE A
1. Warm Leatherette [9/10]
2. Private Life [9/10]
3. A Rolling Stone [7.8/10]
4. Love is the Drug [9/10]

SIDE B
1. The Hunter Gets Captured By The Game [9.7/10]
2. Bullshit [8.9/10]
3. Breakdown [9/10]
4. Pars [7.9/10]

--Overall--
As this is one of my favourite records of all time - I love this album! I've always thought of Grace Jones as one of the ultimate musical geniesus of all time and every single of her records are fantastic - but listening to this just restores my faith in Ms. Jones!
*****/*****
5 out of five
10 out of ten.

M X

10-01-2009, 12:31 AM

http://fujichia.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/05/grace_jones.JPG
Grace Jones - Nightclubbing
Year of Release - 1981

SIDE A
1. Walking in the Rain [9/10]
2. Pull Up to the Bumper [8.1/10]
3. Use Me [7.9/10]
4. Nightclubbing [9/10]

SIDE B
1. Art Groupie [9/10]
2. I've Seen That Face Before (Libertango) [9/10]
3. Feel Up [9.1/10]
4. Demolition Man [9.1/10]
5. I've Done It Again [8.7/10]

--Overall--
A fantastic dance album - one of the best albums ever made!
*****/*****
5 out of five
10 out of ten

Shaun

10-01-2009, 04:16 PM

TheMichaelO; Rating each song out of 10 and then writing a couple of lines to sum it up isn't really an album review.

Emilee

10-01-2009, 04:21 PM

Girls Aloud - Out of Control.

The Promise - 10/10
The Loving Kind - 10/10
Love Is Pain - 10/10
Rolling Back The Rivers In Time - 9/10
Love Is The Key - 9/10
Fix Me Up - 6/10
Revolution In The Head - 6/10
We Wanna Party - 7/10
Live In The Country - 6/10
Untouchable - 8/10
Turn To Stone - 8/10
Miss You Bow Wow - 8/10

Overall great album.
Looking forward to their new tour! :love:

M X

10-01-2009, 07:53 PM

Originally posted by Shaun
TheMichaelO; Rating each song out of 10 and then writing a couple of lines to sum it up isn't really an album review. I'm obviously not the only person who has - and then at the end I write about the album as a whole. Each song gets a rating out of 10 and that shows what I think of it. :thumbs:

KKBL

10-01-2009, 08:36 PM

Originally posted by Shaun
TheMichaelO; Rating each song out of 10 and then writing a couple of lines to sum it up isn't really an album review.

well maybe the thread title should be changed.if TMO's posts aren't"really" review's then hardly any of the posts in this thread are "really" reviews either.

M X

10-01-2009, 08:37 PM

Originally posted by KKBL
Originally posted by Shaun
TheMichaelO; Rating each song out of 10 and then writing a couple of lines to sum it up isn't really an album review.

well maybe the thread title should be changed.if TMO's posts aren't"really" review's then hardly any of the posts in this thread are "really" reviews either. :cheer2::dance2:

M X

10-01-2009, 08:38 PM

Sorry if the album's I'm reviewing (or 'posting about') seem really old but... oh well..

Shaun

10-01-2009, 08:40 PM

Originally posted by TheMichaelO
Originally posted by Shaun
TheMichaelO; Rating each song out of 10 and then writing a couple of lines to sum it up isn't really an album review. I'm obviously not the only person who has - and then at the end I write about the album as a whole. Each song gets a rating out of 10 and that shows what I think of it. :thumbs:

Hmm, in retrospect I didn't mean to make it directed solely at you, sorry :P

And fair enough...

Locke.

10-01-2009, 10:28 PM

Coolio - Steal Hear

http://i39.tinypic.com/21j0l13.jpg

1. Gangsta Walk (Ft. Snoop Dogg) - Two of the best hip-hop artists of all time, very catchy chorus, good lyrics, excellent song. 9.8/10

2. Cruise Off - The amazing verses on this track make up for the awful chorus. Coolio sounds great on it too. 9.5/10

3. They Don't Know (Ft. Black Orchid) - Good chorus, good verses, great lyrics. I don't think it belongs on this Album though, it just feels a bit out of place. Nevertheless, it is a good song. 9.5/10

4. It's On - Amazing song. Best of the album so far. Fast paced with a good beat and good vocals. 10/10

5. Boyfriend (Ft. A.I) - A.I sounds awful on this, his vocals don't suit the track, the chorus also sounds like one you would find on a 50 Cent album too, and Coolio should know better than to record **** like this. 2/10

6. Do It (Ft. Ghost) - A minor step-up from 'Boyfriend' but still isn't in the same league as the first four tracks. The chorus isn't really catchy enough, and 'Ghost' takes up too much of the song. 4.5/10

7. Lady and a Gangsta (Ft. K-La) - Finally! After two poor songs we finally have a good one. The lyrics to this are great and it kinda reminds me of a gangsta-styled 'Breathe' (By Blu Cantrell & Sean Paul). 8/10

8. Make Money (Ft. Gangsta Lu) - Gangsta Lu can go **** himself, he isn't good enough for this song and he doesn't sound like a very good rapper either. The chorus is catchy but gets quite annoying after a while. Ok song- would have been much better if it wasn't for Gangsta Lu's verse. 6/10

9. Back It Up Now (Ft. Vizhun, Ghost and Emo) - Is a completely different styled song than what Coolio usually works on, sounds like something you would hear on Channel U. Terruble. 1.9/10

10. Keep It Dancing - This isn't the kind of song that I like but I do think it could have been a club-hit if he did release it. 6.5/10

11. Dip It - Good lyrics and good vocals by Coolio, better than the previous 3 on the album. 7/10

12. Motivation (Ft. A.I) - Coolio puts A.I to shame on this track. A.I has a weak vocal and Coolio's voice sounds really strong. Other than that, the song is just okay. 5.5/10

13. One More Night (Ft. LV) - LV also sings Gangsta's Paradise with Coolio, so I was really looking forward to listening to this song. And I wasn't disspointed with it either, in fact, I would say that it is on-par with Gangsta's Paradise! By far the best song on this album! This is also the song that Coolio was rapping to Ben on the first highlights show of Celebrity Big Brother 6. 10/10

14. Here We Come - Fantastic song, rapping about how people have forgotten him and what rap has become. It lacks a catchy chorus but on a whole it is great. 9.5/10

15. Keep It Gangsta - Everything about this is pretty much average, I think 'One More Night' would have been a better end to the album. 5/10

Taking every song into account I'd rate the album as a whole as 8/10

M X

11-01-2009, 11:30 AM

http://albumcovers.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/kevin-federline-playing-with-fire.jpg
Kevin Federline - Playing with Fire
Year of Release - 2006

1. Intro [1/10]
2. The World Is Mine [2.3/10]
3. America's Most Hated [1.7/10]
4. Snap [1.8/10]
5. Lose Control [1.4/10]
6. Dance with a Pimp (feat. Ya Boy) [1.3/10]
7. Privilege (feat. Bosko) [1/10]
8. Crazy (feat. Britney Spears) [5/10]
9. A League of My Own [3.2/10]
10. Playing with Fire [1.9/10]
11. Caught Up (Skit) [2.3/10]
12. Caught Up [2.3/10]
13. [hidden track] Kept on Talkin'/Middle Finger [1.5/10]

--Overall--
Probably the worst album I've ever heard in my life & he comes over as such a wannabee Eminem/50 Cent it's unbelieveable. The quality of music is just awful & he should be ashamed of himself.
-/*****
0 out of five.
0 out of ten.

M X

11-01-2009, 11:43 AM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/e/e1/Circus-_Album.png
Britney Spears - Circus
Year of Release - 2008

1. Womanizer [9.8/10]
2. Circus [10/10]
3. Out From Under [7.6/10]
4. Kill The Lights [8.9/10]
5. Shattered Glass [8.7/10]
6. If U Seek Amy [10/10]
7. Unusual You [9.9/10]
8. Blur [6.9/10]
9. Mmm Papi [4.1/10]
10. Mannequin [9.6/10]
11. Lace and Leather [7.9/10]
12. My Baby [7.1/10]
13. Radar [7/10]
14. Amnesia [9.3/10]
15. Phonography [9.2/10]
16. Rock Me In [8.9/10]

--Overall--
Fantastic album & a really great pop record.
*****/*****
5 out of five
10 out of ten

AngRemembered

11-01-2009, 11:45 AM

This is slightly of topic but, does anyone know if Leon(X Factor 2007 winner) has produced an album yet, and if so how would you rate it David?

I'm thinking it may make a nice gift for someone I know well, but unless its any good it may go down as a sarcastic joke, and thats not my intention.

KKBL

11-01-2009, 11:51 AM

Originally posted by Angiebabe
This is slightly of topic but, does anyone know if Leon(X Factor 2007 winner) has produced an album yet, and if so how would you rate it David?

I'm thinking it may make a nice gift for someone I know well, but unless its any good it may go down as a sarcastic joke, and thats not my intention.

i think Darren has Leon's album so he could probably tell you if the albums good or not.

M X

11-01-2009, 12:04 PM

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51c3n1omPVL._SL500_AA240_.jpg
Sugababes - Catfights and Spotlights
Year of Release - 2008

1. Girls [6.7/10]
2. You on a Good Day [6/10]
3. No Can Do [10/10]
4. Hanging on a Star [4.5/10]
5. Side Chick [7.5/10]
6. Unbreakable Heart [7.6/10]
7. Sunday Rain [6.5/10]
8. Every Heart Broken [8.9/10]
9. Beware [7.6/10]
10. Nothing's as Good as You [7/10]
11. Sound of Goodbye [3.4/10]
12. Can We Call a Truce [7.6/10]
13. [bonus track] About You Now (acoustic version) [9.8/10]
14. [bonus track] She's Like A Star (with Taio Cruz) [10/10]

--Overall--
A good pop record but is full of lackluster fillers which fail to put you in the mood of pure excitment which past Sugababes records have (ie. "Hole In The Head", "Freak Like Me", "Round Round", "About You Now"). The best track is "No Can Do" which sounds almost Motown inspired with soul elements in the chorus (The Three Degrees, anyone?).
**1/2/*****
2 and a half out of five
5 out of ten

M X

11-01-2009, 12:07 PM

Originally posted by Angiebabe
This is slightly of topic but, does anyone know if Leon(X Factor 2007 winner) has produced an album yet, and if so how would you rate it David?

I'm thinking it may make a nice gift for someone I know well, but unless its any good it may go down as a sarcastic joke, and thats not my intention. Yeah. I've got it - I didn't think it was very good and quite boring. It's called "Right Now".

M X

11-01-2009, 03:25 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/fa/Hudsoncover.jpg
Jennifer Hudson - Jennifer Hudson

1. Spotlight [9.8/10]
2. If This Isn't Love [9/10]
3. Pocketbook feat. Ludacris [7.8/10]
4. Giving Myself [6.7/10]
5. What's Wrong (Go Away) feat. T-Pain [9.8/10]
6. My Heart [7.8/10]
7. You Pulled Me Through [7.9/10]
8. I'm His Only Woman feat. Fantastia [6.7/10]
9. Can't Stop the Rain [8.9/10]
10. We Gon' Fight [9.1/10]
11. Invisible [9.7/10]
12. And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going [10/10]
13. Jesus Promised Me a Home Over There [9.8/10]
14. All Dressed in Love (UK bonus track)[7.9/10]
15. Stand Up (UK bonus track)[9.1/10]

--Overall--
Obviously the recent tragic murder of family members of Hudson's have boosted sales but needless to say this is a fantastic soul/R&B album which will stay with you for a while. It's honesty and frankness really deserve respect!
****/*****
4 out of five stars

DamonJ

11-01-2009, 03:28 PM

Originally posted by TheMichaelO
http://albumcovers.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/kevin-federline-playing-with-fire.jpg
Kevin Federline - Playing with Fire
Year of Release - 2006

1. Intro [1/10]
2. The World Is Mine [2.3/10]
3. America's Most Hated [1.7/10]
4. Snap [1.8/10]
5. Lose Control [1.4/10]
6. Dance with a Pimp (feat. you Boy) [1.3/10]
7. Privilege (feat. Bosko) [1/10]
8. Crazy (feat. Britney Spears) [5/10]
9. A League of My Own [3.2/10]
10. Playing with Fire [1.9/10]
11. Caught Up (Skit) [2.3/10]
12. Caught Up [2.3/10]
13. [hidden track] Kept on Talkin'/Middle Finger [1.5/10]

--Overall--
Probably the worst album I've ever heard in my life & he comes over as such a wannabee Eminem/50 Cent it's unbelieveable. The quality of music is just awful & he should be ashamed of himself.
-/*****
0 out of five.
0 out of ten.

I figured this review is slightly bias considering the events which have happened throughout the last few years. Despite K-Fat being a complete idiot, this album actually was quality, especially the collaboration with Britney.

M X

11-01-2009, 03:41 PM

Originally posted by DamonJ
Originally posted by TheMichaelO
http://albumcovers.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/kevin-federline-playing-with-fire.jpg
Kevin Federline - Playing with Fire
Year of Release - 2006

1. Intro [1/10]
2. The World Is Mine [2.3/10]
3. America's Most Hated [1.7/10]
4. Snap [1.8/10]
5. Lose Control [1.4/10]
6. Dance with a Pimp (feat. you Boy) [1.3/10]
7. Privilege (feat. Bosko) [1/10]
8. Crazy (feat. Britney Spears) [5/10]
9. A League of My Own [3.2/10]
10. Playing with Fire [1.9/10]
11. Caught Up (Skit) [2.3/10]
12. Caught Up [2.3/10]
13. [hidden track] Kept on Talkin'/Middle Finger [1.5/10]
--Overall--
Probably the worst album I've ever heard in my life & he comes over as such a wannabee Eminem/50 Cent it's unbelieveable. The quality of music is just awful & he should be ashamed of himself.
-/*****
0 out of five.
0 out of ten.

I figured this review is slightly bias considering the events which have happened throughout the last few years. Despite K-Fat being a complete idiot, this album actually was quality, especially the collaboration with Britney.
I maybe being bias about the fact that I hate him but I seriously think this album is pure rubbish!

--

Just checked Metacritic too see it's rating & it's the worst rated album ever! HAHA! :spin:

The duet with Britney is the best on the album obviously.

MarkWaldorf

11-01-2009, 03:42 PM

I like Crazy but only the solo Britney version.

Sophii3x

11-01-2009, 05:35 PM

This is the first review I've ever written, so I hope it's ok!

Delta Goodrem- Delta
http://i43.tinypic.com/e83mg5.jpg

1. Believe Again- A truly beautiful song, I love it. The lyrics are just amazing and inspirational, it's just a bit long though (5:46). 8.5/10

2. In This Life- Love this song, really good pop ballad. The piano/guitar heavy intro draws you straight into the song. 9/10

3. Possessionless- My second favourite song from the album, just beautiful. The lyrics are amazing and I just love the chorus. Very personal to Delta, and holds so many meanings. 10/10

4. God Laughs- Another good song, a personal song to Delta in relation to her parents’ divorce. It’s quite calming aswell. 7.5/10

5. You Will Only Break My Heart- A fun, poppy and upbeat song, something Delta hasn’t really done before. At times it’s a little repetitive, but still good. 8/10

6. The Guardian- Even though this ballad is one of the two songs on the album that Delta didn’t write, I love it. The lyrics are amazing and she sings it beautifully. 9/10

7. Bare Hands- Definitely my favourite song from the album. The heavy elecro beats give an edge to it and I love that mixed with the piano, definitely something unique for this album. The chorus is incredible too. 10/10

8. Woman- I can’t get myself to like this song and no matter how many times I try to listen to it, I just want to skip it. It’s very country, which is a genre that I’m not a big fan of anyway and it wasn’t written by her either. 3/10

9. I Can’t Break It To My Heart- Another good ballad. Shouldn’t have been the 4th Aus single over Possessionless though. 7/10

10. Brave Face- This song is too sweet and has a great vibe to it, I like the verses the best. 8.5/10

11. One Day- I completely dislike this song, it’s just rubbish. It just seems that all she’s doing is singing her to-do list. I can’t understand how it made the album over amazing bonus/single b-sides such as ‘Take Me Home’, ‘Fever’ and ‘Breathe In, Breathe Out’, argh. 2/10

12. Angels In The Room- This slow ballad is just magical, her vocals just shine. Good song to end the album with as it’s a song to thank her fans. 8/10
--
Overall= 8.5/10. Been listening to this album since October 2007 and it's an excellent album from Delta, but not as good as the first two (Innocent Eyes and Mistaken Identity). Her vocals are flawless but there's two songs on there that shouldn't be there. I so wish she was releasing this in the UK, but she isn't, it would have done well.

HeatherTWx

11-01-2009, 06:26 PM

http://i474.photobucket.com/albums/rr109/lil_star11/0602517900738-large.jpg
1]The Promise- 9.7/10- Great Song, One of the best on the album. Dead catchy and the video is great too.
2]the Loving Kind 10/10- Second song to be released from this album. I think its just a bit better that the promise althought they are both equally great.
3]Rolling back the rivers in time - 10/10 - Probably my favorite song on the album. Its just so catchy.
4]Love is the key - 8/10 - One of my least favourite songs on the album.
im not sure about it. I'm not keen on the tune or the lyrics.
5]Turn to stone - 7.2/10 - My least favourite song on the album. It just doesnt click with me. I dont really understand what the song is about.
6]Untouchable- 10/10 - I actually love this song so much. This song definatley clicks with me.
7]Fix Me up -7.5/10- This song is quite repeatative but has a good tune.
8]Love is pain -8/10- This song has a sorta fast beat but is quite soft. The chorus is sung well.
9]Miss you bow wow- 9/10 - Love this song, Really catchy. The lyrics are great.
10]Revolution in the head -8.5/10 - Not sure about this song. The rhythm is good. But not one of there best
11]Live in the country - 9/10- Quite a fast beat at the begining. Like most of the songs on the album quite catchy.I like how in the chorus, the voices overlap each other.
12]we wanna party - 8.5/10 - not 100% keen on this song.

overall great album!

Really good and quite surprised at it :)

M X

11-01-2009, 08:46 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/93/Heavy_Rotation.jpg
Anastacia - Heavy Rotation
Year of Release - 2008

1. I Can Feel You [10/10]
2. The Way I See It [9.8/10]
3. Absolutley Positiveley [9.9/10]
4. Defeated [6.2/10]
5. In Summer [9.7/10]
6. Heavy Rotation [10/10]
7. Same Song [7.8/10]
8. I Call It Love [9.1/10]
9. All Fall Down [6.7/10]
10. Never Gonna' Love Again [7.9/10]
11. You'll Be Line [10/10]
12. Beautiful Messed Up World [bonus track] [7.8/10]

--Overall--
A fantastic pop/soul album by the amazing Anastacia. Much lighter & brighter and happier than her last album (when she was battling breast cancer) which had a very hard rock-pop feel to it.
****/*****
4 out of five stars
9 out of ten.

DamonJ

11-01-2009, 09:25 PM

Originally posted by TheMichaelO
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/93/Heavy_Rotation.jpg
Anastacia - Heavy Rotation
Year of Release - 2008

1. I Can Feel You [10/10]
2. The Way I See It [9.8/10]
3. Absolutley Positiveley [9.9/10]
4. Defeated [6.2/10]
5. In Summer [9.7/10]
6. Heavy Rotation [10/10]
7. Same Song [7.8/10]
8. I Call It Love [9.1/10]
9. All Fall Down [6.7/10]
10. Never Gonna' Love Again [7.9/10]
11. You'll Be Line [10/10]
12. Beautiful Messed Up World [bonus track] [7.8/10]

--Overall--
A fantastic pop/soul album by the amazing Anastacia. Much lighter & brighter and happier than her last album (when she was battling breast cancer) which had a very hard rock-pop feel to it.
****/*****
4 out of five stars
9 out of ten.

:lovedup: :lovedup: :lovedup:
I'm IN LOVE with this album.

M X

12-01-2009, 07:59 AM

^Same.

M X

12-01-2009, 03:00 PM

http://static.rateyourmusic.com/album_images/s14081.jpg
Grace Jones - Inside Story
Year of Release - 1986

SIDE A
1. I'm Not Perfect (But I'm Perfect for You) [7.9/10]
2. Hollywood Liar [10/10]
3. Chan Hitchhikes to Shanghai [9.8/10]
4. Victor Should Have Been a Jazz Musician [9.7/10]
5. Party Girl [8.9/10]

SIDE B
1. Crush [9/10]
2. Barefoot in Beverly Hills [9/10]
3. Scary but Fun [9.8/10]
4. White Collar Crime [8.9/10]
5. Inside Story [10/10]

--Overall--
What a fantastic album! An amazing listen & this just restores my faith in the amazing Grace Jones!
*****/*****
5 out of five stars.

Ross

13-01-2009, 03:12 AM

http://i40.tinypic.com/w1v90x.jpg
Lady GaGa - The Fame

I'm going to find it hard not to rate all of the songs 10/10! But here it goes...

1. Just Dance (featuring Colby O'Donis) - Absolutely amazing song, so catchy and guaranteed to cheer anybody up with one listen. I first heard this about November time, it was on non-stop then I kinda grew out of it, now it's back in my head. Just dance do-do-do. I think this is going to be one of the biggest songs of 2009. 10/10

2. Love Game - I love it!! The beat is absolutely incredible and again, it's so damn catchy with it's naughty yet fun lyrics. 'Let's have some fun this beat is sick, I wanna take a ride on your disco stick.' She has to release this song, will be another hit. 10/10

3. Paparazzi - An overall good song, although personally I think it's one of the weakest on the album. It's still catchy, but I think the whole album is. It doesn't stand out like most of them and the lyrics are a bit daft. Still a quality song though! 8/10

4. Poker Face - My favourite song on the whole album. Pure pop genius. I'm glad she is releasing this song everywhere, it's gonna be number one again. I think this track has the best lyrics from all the songs and I'm at an advantage because I've seen the video and it's incredibly sexy. 10/10

5. I Like It Rough - Probably in my top 5 songs of the album. Again, I love the beat and I just think it's a song that can be on repeat for hours and you won't get bored. 10/10

6. Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) - My second favourite song on the whole album. I love the "cherry cherry boom boom" bit at the start. It's a 'slow' song, compared to the majority of the album and the beat again is quality. I hope this does get released because I can see it doing so well and the video will be amazing. 10/10

7. Starstruck (feat. Flo Rida) - At first, I didn't really like this song but after a few listens it grew on me, it's the chorus that gets you. I was surprised how well I liked it and Flo Rida is good in the song. Catchy song, can see it doing well in the US. Not so much in Europe. 9/10

8. Beautiful, Dirty, Rich - Eee, I don't know how to take this song. I don't really like it, I think it's a bit 'off' from the rest of the album. It's catchy, but I tend to skip it while playing the whole album. The chorus is good and that's about it. Although the beat is great. 7/10

9. The Fame - I thought being the album title, this song would stand out from the rest. But it's overshadowed by loads of other songs on the album. I do think it's a song you can dance to all night long though. Catchy lyrics too. 8/10

10. Money Honey - I think to beat to this is too simular to 'Just Dance' - but I don't care I frickin' love this song!! I'm in love. I could happily just listen to this all day. I hope this gets released too. That's m-o-n-e-y so sexy! 10/10

11. Boys Boys Boys - One of the songs with my favourite lyrics. 'I like you alot alot, all we want is hot hot'. This is definately going to be a success if it released but there are better songs on the album which would appeal to more people. Although, again like I've been saying. I think the beat is absolutely amazing! 10/10

12. Paper Gangsta - The weakest song on the album in my opinion. It's still a good song, and you won't get bored of it. I think it could have easily been replaced on the album. I do love the song though, I just think it's boring compared to the other 15 songs. 7/10

13. Brown Eyes - A really slow song, but it's such a beautiful song. I adore the lyrics and it really touches you if you're in that 'sad' mood. It is guarenteed to be one of the favourites for most people. 8/10

14. Summerboy - One of the catchiest songs! It is a great floor filler, and definately one she could release and will be a major hit. Again, pop brilliance. 10/10

15. Disco Heaven - One of my favourite on the album! I do love it lots and I can see myself dancing to it non-stop. It reminds me a bit of old 'Kylie', which is a good thing. 10/10

16. Again Again - Okay, I do like this song but it takes a bit of getting used to it. It's sort of acoustic/less about the beat, more about the lyrics which is one of the reasons why I love it. It's great! 8/10

Overall rating: 10/10

Favourite Songs (In order):
Poker Face
Just Dance (featuring Colby O'Donis)
Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say)
Love Game
I Like It Rough
Disco Heaven
Boys Boys Boys
Money Honey
Summerboy
Starstruck
The Fame
Paparazzi
Again Again
Brown Eyes
Paper Gangsta
Beautiful, Dirty, Rich

xDramatick

13-01-2009, 06:37 PM

Originally posted by KKBL
Originally posted by Angiebabe
This is slightly of topic but, does anyone know if Leon(X Factor 2007 winner) has produced an album yet, and if so how would you rate it David?

I'm thinking it may make a nice gift for someone I know well, but unless its any good it may go down as a sarcastic joke, and thats not my intention.

i think Darren has Leon's album so he could probably tell you if the albums good or not.

Hahah yeah.
I'm slightly biased but I loved Leon's album.
IMO, it's the second best album by an XF contestant so far [after Shayne's "Breathless"]

Let's put it this way, if you're into pop music, and love big voices and chart music;; it's not for you at all.
However if you appreciate blues/jazz music, and are a fan of Michael Buble, then you'll love it.

M X

15-01-2009, 05:40 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/24/FunhouseAlbum.jpg/200px-FunhouseAlbum.jpg
P!nk - Funhouse
Year of Release - 2008

1. So What [9.8/10]A fiesty, aggressive song which you will love.
2. Sober [10/10] Fantastic.
3. I Don't Believe You [7.1/10] A good song. Will be great acoustically on tour.
4. One Foot Wrong [7.8/10]
5. Please Don't Leave Me [6.1/10]
6. Bad Influence [5.4/10] A little bit of a filler.
7. Funhouse [10/10] Just after the mood is going down from the slightly dire Bad Influence this fun, ramaging track comes along.
8. Crystal Ball [7/10]
9. Mean [9.3/10] Great song.
10. It's All Your Fault [9.1/10]
11. Ave Mary A [8.3/10]
12. Glitter In The Air [6.5/10] Meh.. hmm..
13. [UK bonus track] This is How it Goes Down (ft. Travis McCoy) [8.9/10]
14. [UK and Japan bonus track] Boring [5.6/10] Bit of a disapointing way to close the record. After a fair few great songs I was expecting a little more to close the album even if it's only a bonus track. Does what it says on the tin - ..boring.

Altogether;
8.5/10
***1/2 / *****
3 and a half stars.

MrGaryy

15-01-2009, 05:44 PM

Originally posted by TheMichaelO
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/e/e1/Circus-_Album.png
Britney Spears - Circus
Year of Release - 2008

1. Womanizer [9.8/10]
2. Circus [10/10]
3. Out From Under [7.6/10]
4. Kill The Lights [8.9/10]
5. Shattered Glass [8.7/10]
6. If U Seek Amy [10/10]
7. Unusual You [9.9/10]
8. Blur [6.9/10]
9. Mmm Papi [4.1/10]
10. Mannequin [9.6/10]
11. Lace and Leather [7.9/10]
12. My Baby [7.1/10]
13. Radar [7/10]
14. Amnesia [9.3/10]
15. Phonography [9.2/10]
16. Rock Me In [8.9/10]

--Overall--
Fantastic album & a really great pop record.
*****/*****
5 out of five
10 out of ten

That is possibly the most pointless review of the whole thread. :rolleyes:

M X

15-01-2009, 05:52 PM

Originally posted by Gazbo
Originally posted by TheMichaelO
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/e/e1/Circus-_Album.png
Britney Spears - Circus
Year of Release - 2008

1. Womanizer [9.8/10]
2. Circus [10/10]
3. Out From Under [7.6/10]
4. Kill The Lights [8.9/10]
5. Shattered Glass [8.7/10]
6. If U Seek Amy [10/10]
7. Unusual You [9.9/10]
8. Blur [6.9/10]
9. Mmm Papi [4.1/10]
10. Mannequin [9.6/10]
11. Lace and Leather [7.9/10]
12. My Baby [7.1/10]
13. Radar [7/10]
14. Amnesia [9.3/10]
15. Phonography [9.2/10]
16. Rock Me In [8.9/10]

--Overall--
Fantastic album & a really great pop record.
*****/*****
5 out of five
10 out of ten

That is possibly the most pointless review of the whole thread. :rolleyes:
That is possibly the most pointless post of the whole thread. :rolleyes:

M X

15-01-2009, 05:52 PM

Why?

MrGaryy

15-01-2009, 06:11 PM

It's a review of your favourite artist that contains less than ten words of text from you. Oh and if you're going to insult me at least try to be original rather than rehashing my post.

Stu

15-01-2009, 06:19 PM

Wow, what a ****ing barrel of budding journalists we got in here.

xDramatick

15-01-2009, 06:23 PM

Definition of Review;;
An essay or article that gives a critical evaluation

M X

15-01-2009, 06:25 PM

Originally posted by Gazbo
It's a review of your favourite artist that contains less than ten words of text from you. Oh and if you're going to insult me at least try to be original rather than rehashing my post. fgs, just because I am a fan of Britney means I can't rate her songs out of ten & then give an evaluation at the end. And I wasn't insulting you, I was saying what I think is true.

Stu

15-01-2009, 06:28 PM

Originally posted by Darenn
Definition of Review;;
An essay or article that gives a critical evaluation
Proof as if needed that definitions in italics = pure and utter slickness :thumbs:.

Locke.

15-01-2009, 08:02 PM

http://i43.tinypic.com/2vte83d.jpg

Coolio - It Takes a Thief

1. Fantastic Voyage - One of my favourite Coolio songs. Great beat, decent lyrics, and a pretty good video too. Excellent opening to Coolio's first album. 10/10

2. County Line - It has good lyrics but that is about it, the beat becomes tiresome and the song is overall just too slow. 4/10

3. Mama I'm In Love With a Gangsta - Great song. The chorus is really catchy and so are the verses. A good step-up from 'County Line'. 9.8/10

4. Hand on my Nutsac - It isn't as bad as the title makes it sound. The lyrics aren't the best but the vocals are great. 6/10

5. Ghetto Cartoon - Verses are great but I don't understand a word of the chorus, good idea with the song though. 6.5/10

6. Smokin' Stix - Again, it lacks a catchy chorus but the verses are good. Okay song. 6/10

7. Can-O-Corn - N/A

8. U Know Hoo! - Better than the previous three on the album. It has a good chrous and decent verses, worth a listen. 7.2/10

9. It Takes a Thief - Great song! I always look forward to listening to the track that has the same name as the album, and most of the time they dissapoint- but this one didn't. One of the best on the album so far. 9.7/10

10. Bring Back Somethin' For Da Hood - Lyrically this is one of the best songs on the album, again it lacks a good chrous though. 9/10

11. N da Closet - Best song on the album so far!! This would have been a hit if he had released it. Everything about it is fantastic! 10/10

12. On My Way to Harlem - Another good song. It has a good beat, good lyrics and good an okay chorus. 9.5/10

13. Sticky Fingers - Same as above. 10/10

14. Thought You Knew - 9/10

15. Ugly Bitches - 10/10

16. I Remember - 10/10

I didn't comment on the last few songs as I found myself repeating myself quite a bit.

Best song on Album: I Remember

Overall Rating: 9.5/10

M X

15-01-2009, 10:11 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/01/Impossible_Princess.jpg
Kylie Minouge - Impossible Princess
Year of Release - 1998

1. Too Far [7.8/10] A good pop record with a catchy beat.
2. Cowboy Style [6.8/10]
3. Some Kind of Bliss [8.9/10]
4. Did It Again [6.7/10]
5. Breathe [10/10]
6. Say Hey [7.8/10]
7. Drunk [6.7/10]
8. I Don't Need Anyone [6.8/10]
9. Jump [7.8/10]
10. Limbo [10/10]
11. Through the Years [8.9/10]
12. Dreams [7.8/10]

Altogether;
Not Kylie's best work but still a good pop/dance orientated record with catchy beats.
6.7/10
***/*****
3 out of five.

note;; a while after the record was released the artwork was changed to 'Kylie Minouge' because of Princess Diana's tragic death but oftenly changed back.

M X

16-01-2009, 11:29 AM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/79/IAmSashaFierce.jpg
Beyonce - I Am.. Sasha Fierce
Year of Release - 2008

I Am..

1.If I Were A Boy [9.8/10] A brilliant angry ballad where Beyonce's voice really shines.
2. Halo [6/10] Would have been better with Leona.
3. Disappear [7.8/10]
4. Broken-Hearted Girl [7.9/10]
5. Ave Maria [8.1/10]
6. Satellites [7/10]

Sasha Fierce

1. Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) [4.7/10] I think it sounds a bit of a mess.
2. Radio [7.8/10] Much better than the above.
3. Diva [8.9/10]
4. Sweet Dreams [6.9/10]
5. Video Phone [6.8/10]

Altogether;;
A good album with a few good songs. Nothing spectacular and Single Ladies just is a pure mess but a few lovley ballads and groovy dance tracks.
***/*****
5 out of five stars.
6/10
6 out of ten.

Locke.

16-01-2009, 01:30 PM

http://i44.tinypic.com/2vl0dmx.jpg

Coolio - Gangsta's Paradise

1. That's How It Is (Intro) - 10/10
2. Geto Highlites - 10/10
3. Gangsta's Paradise - 10/10
4. Too Hot - 10/10
5. Cruisin' - 10/10
6. Exercise Yo' Game - 5/10
7. 1,2,3,4 (Sumpin' New) - 10/10
8. Smilin' - 8/10
9. Fucc Coolio - N/A
10. Kinda High Kinda Drunk - 10/10
11. For My Sistas - 10/10
12. Is This Me? - 9/10
13. A Thing Goin' On - 7/10
14. Bright as the Son - 9/10
15. Recoup This - 3/10
16. The Revolution - 8/10
17. Get Up, Get Down - 6/10

Best Song on the Album: Too Hot
Overall - 10/10

By far the best Rap album that I have ever listened to. Geto Highlites, Gangsta's Paradise, Too Hot, Cruisin', 1,2,3,4 Sumpin' New, Kinda High Kinda Drunk and For My Sistas are all great songs, and I reccomend them to anyone who likes rap music. The album fully deserved to go Platinum in the UK and 2x Platinum in the US, as it is amazing.

MarkWaldorf

16-01-2009, 02:09 PM

I agree with your review David. Lady Gaga is definitely one of the best new artists around. But The Fame is one of the best songs on the album! :hugesmile:

KKBL

16-01-2009, 02:13 PM

so far Just Dance,Poker Face,The Fame,Eh Eh,Starsturck,Brown Eyes,Beautiful Dirty Rich,Paparazzi and LoveGame are the only ones i like.

MarkWaldorf

16-01-2009, 02:16 PM

Have you just heard it? It really grows on you. I actually can't fault any track :/

KKBL

16-01-2009, 02:19 PM

Originally posted by Markus
Have you just heard it? It really grows on you. I actually can't fault any track :/

i just got it the other day.it will probably grow on me though.

Billy

16-01-2009, 02:20 PM

MarkWaldorf

16-01-2009, 02:21 PM

Originally posted by KKBL
Originally posted by Markus
Have you just heard it? It really grows on you. I actually can't fault any track :/

i just got it the other day.it will probably grow on me though.

Yeah. You like all of the brilliant ones though, so that's okay LOL

Tom4784

16-01-2009, 03:25 PM

LADYHAWKE - LADYHAWKE (2008)

Genre?: Ladyhawke is an Indie pop singer who uses an 80's synth in her songs often.

Thoughts?: I love this album, I regurlary listen to it on college mornings because it's so easy to listen to and the songs are catchy. I love the use of the synth as it gives her a sound that's quite distinctive,If i had to compare her to anyone though I'd say imagine Goldfrapp with a bit more grit and less dance orientated songs. The album contains 13 songs, 9 of which are very good and the other 4 are decent but I think they are a bit boring compared to the other 9. I'd recommend her to anyone who likes indie or pop.

The Best songs: Magic, Manipulating Woman, My Delirium, Love don't live here, Paris is burning, Dusk Til Dawn, Oh My, Crazy World, Morning Dreams.

Check her out on Myspace or Youtube. She is fantastic, musically i'm not an easy person to please I ussually only like 3 or 4 songs on most albums but this album is fun, very listenable (is that even a word?) and one of my favourites from 08.

9/10

Stu

16-01-2009, 03:31 PM

Anybody obsessed with simply having a lot of reviews put out fast : the above is what a review is meant to read like. It is the opinion of a human, not a robot.

Also, are you sure some of you are not just being a *teeny* bit biased when it comes to Coolio? Gangsters Paradise greatest rap album ever, FTW?

Tom4784

16-01-2009, 04:08 PM

SANTOGOLD - SANTOGOLD (2008)

Genre?: Varied. There's some R'n'B Hip-hop-y esque songs in there but most of it is kinda experimental, there's elements of Dance, indie pop and even a slow rocky number? She's a dificult lass to class...

Thoughts?: One of my favourite artists from 08, her album isn't as easy to like as say Ladyhawke's on the first listen. When I first listened to it I only really liked two songs (L.E.S Artistes, You'll find a way). But then I found myself listening to it again and finding songs and layers to them which I hadn't discovered the first time around. All but 1 song is now on my Ipod and I think that'll change the next time I pop the disc into my stereo. There are 12 songs on this album, 1 of which is a remix which i'm not keen on since I think they are lazy aditions to albums. They range from good to amazing, I just wish there was a ppoper song instead of a remix. It does nothing but undermine her talent. I personally can't wait to see more from Santi White.

Best Songs (since I listed 9 last time i've decided to list only the cream of the crop): L.E.S Artistes (Best song), Creator, Shove it, Lights Out, You'll find a way.

She's a versatile lady who might not be amazing on first listen but becomes a delight on repeat listenings. Challenging and amazing, I love Santogold.

9/10

I'm going to redo my Britney Spears and Killer reviews next since my opinions have changed and those reviews were poor. Oh and thanks Stu :hug:.

Tom4784

16-01-2009, 04:36 PM

BRITNEY SPEARS - CIRCUS (2008)

Genre?: pop

Thoughts?: It's not great, similar to a lot of pop albums of 08 It contains mostly filler songs. When I first listened to it I loved the first half of the album but the second half of the album is full of boring rushed filler songs. The song which I just don't get is If you seek amy, I find the song boring, senseless and a shameless attempt at trying to appear 'mature' without going the full hog. They should have done an out and out mature song or kept with a song about a girl called Amy because mixing these two just creates a pointless mashed up song. The good songs on the album are quite good but the second half really lets it down. An album for Britters fans only.

Best Songs?: Circus, Shattered Glass, Out from under, Quicksand (Favourite song, I listened to it a lot on youtube. It's a travesty it wasn't picked up as a song on the album)

5/10

xDramatick

16-01-2009, 04:42 PM

Originally posted by Dezzy
BRITNEY SPEARS - CIRCUS (2008)

5/10

Start running now! :laugh2:

Nice reviews Dezzy, I've been meaning to check out Ladyhawke and Santogold so I'll checkout the songs you've recommended.

My opinion of Circus has gone down too, I only listen to the same few tracks now [Circus, Shattered Glass, If U Seek Amy, Kill The Lights, Ammnesia and Womanizer (Bambi Remix)] haha.

Tom4784

16-01-2009, 04:51 PM

THE KILLERS - DAY AND AGE (2008)

Genre?: Rock with a glitzy glamour edge?

Thoughts?: Chances are depending on how much you like this album will depend on how much you liked the previous two albums. If you were a fan of Hot Fuss you'll probably like this but if you loved Sam's Town then this album might not jar well with you. I loved both albums but liked sam's Town a little better, however I do quite like this album although it's missing something....BIG! Most of the songs are likable although there are a fair few fillers here. My favourite song however was I Can't Stay I loved how different it was and how it actually worked amazingly well (Sunny beach sound with rock? IT WORKS!). Most songs are more light and dance-y but fans of Sam's Town will enjoy Dustland Fairytale which is kind of the BIG song of this album. The problem with this album is that it hasn't really got a big Killers song outside of Dustland Fairytale. I miss my When you were young/Mr Brightside/Bones.

Best Songs: I Can't Stay, Human, Dustland Fairytale, Spaceman, Neon Tiger.

I like the album but the lack of a real big Killers hit outside of Dustland Fairytale hurts and the fillers hurt too. I liked the Glitzy style but I kinda wished there was more Sam's Town in there. Even though I've moaned a bit I did really enjoy the album though.

7.9/10

Tom4784

16-01-2009, 05:00 PM

Originally posted by Darenn
Originally posted by Dezzy
BRITNEY SPEARS - CIRCUS (2008)

5/10

Start running now! :laugh2:

Nice reviews Dezzy, I've been meaning to check out Ladyhawke and Santogold so I'll checkout the songs you've recommended.

My opinion of Circus has gone down too, I only listen to the same few tracks now [Circus, Shattered Glass, If U Seek Amy, Kill The Lights, Ammnesia and Womanizer (Bambi Remix)] haha.

Thanks Darenn! :hug:

Santogold and LadyHawke were among my favourite 08 acts. Both albums i'd reccomend wholeheartedly and deserve to be listened to in full.

I remember quite liking Circus when it came out but now I think it's like a quickie in an alley, It's good at the time but when you look back it's nowhere near as good as you remember. I'm not a huge Britters fan though so I don't think I was really in the target audience.

Locke.

16-01-2009, 05:09 PM

Originally posted by Stu
Also, are you sure some of you are not just being a *teeny* bit biased when it comes to Coolio? Gangsters Paradise greatest rap album ever, FTW?

Best rap album I've listened to, not greatest rap album ever.

Stu

16-01-2009, 05:19 PM

Originally posted by David
Originally posted by Stu
Also, are you sure some of you are not just being a *teeny* bit biased when it comes to Coolio? Gangsters Paradise greatest rap album ever, FTW?

Best rap album I've listened to, not greatest rap album ever.
Cool, thats my bad :thumbs:.

M X

16-01-2009, 05:22 PM

Ladyhawke is awesome. David, that's not the cover of The Fame y'know LOL?

KKBL - Yeah, for me I can say a bad word about any song as I think they all are orgasmic but they will all probably grow on you!

M X

16-01-2009, 08:13 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/80/MariahCarey-Glittercover.jpg
Mariah Carey - Glitter
Year of Release - 2001

1. Loverboy (remix) [7.1/10]
2. Lead the Way [9.9/10]
3. If We (feat. Ja Rule & Nate Dogg) [6.7/10]
4. Didn't Mean to Turn You On [9.8/10]
5. Don't Stop (Funkin' 4 Jamaica) [9.9/10]
6. All My Life [9.6/10]
7. Reflections (Care Enough) [10/10]
8. Last Night a DJ Saved My Life [8.9/10]
9. Want You (feat. Eric Benét) [5.6/10]
10. Never Too Far [10/10]
11. Twister [8.7/10]
12. Loverboy (feat. Cameo) [9.8/10]

Altogether;;
This album is noted for being Carey's biggest commercial & criticial failure to date. Critics called it 'weak' & 'silly' along with the movie of the same title (which this record is the soundtrack for). The flop of this record led to a mental breakdown by Carey and her split from Virgin Records. This album really should be noted for being incredibly underrated! It's a cool, funk, disco, soul & R&B album & her voice shines the whole way through.
****/*****
4 out of five stars.
8/10
8 out of ten.

MarkWaldorf

16-01-2009, 08:15 PM

Glitter (film) is so underrated. It's definitely not as bad as people made out. I've seen a good few times lmao. The album (minus Reflections and Didn't Mean To Turn You On) is pretty weak though and doesn't reflect usual Mariah.

Tom4784

16-01-2009, 08:38 PM

OPERATOR PLEASE - YES YES VINDICTIVE

Genre?: Indie.

Thoughts?: What a hyper album! Most of the songs are up tempo and catchy (Just a Song about Ping Pong being the most frantic). There's also some slower numbers such as 6.8 which is quite good and grandiose sounding. There are around 5 very good songs on the album while the others aren't AS memorable but are pretty good. With this band I can see a lot of potential and I can't wait to hear their next album.

Best Songs: Get What you want, Just a song about Ping Pong, Two for my Seconds, 6.8 and Cringe.

A good album and plenty of potential.

7/10.

M X

16-01-2009, 09:23 PM

Originally posted by Markus
Glitter (film) is so underrated. It's definitely not as bad as people made out. I've seen a good few times lmao. The album (minus Reflections and Didn't Mean To Turn You On) is pretty weak though and doesn't reflect usual Mariah. Yeah. I think the film is great. & the album, I thought, was good but did have a couple of weak songs.

xDramatick

16-01-2009, 09:27 PM

Originally posted by TheMichaelO
Originally posted by Markus
Glitter (film) is so underrated. It's definitely not as bad as people made out. I've seen a good few times lmao. The album (minus Reflections and Didn't Mean To Turn You On) is pretty weak though and doesn't reflect usual Mariah. Yeah. I think the film is great. & the album, I thought, was good but did have a couple of weak songs.

Weak songs?
You didn't give anything less than five :tongue:

M X

17-01-2009, 01:28 PM

Originally posted by Darenn
Originally posted by TheMichaelO
Originally posted by Markus
Glitter (film) is so underrated. It's definitely not as bad as people made out. I've seen a good few times lmao. The album (minus Reflections and Didn't Mean To Turn You On) is pretty weak though and doesn't reflect usual Mariah. Yeah. I think the film is great. & the album, I thought, was good but did have a couple of weak songs.

Weak songs?
You didn't give anything less than five :tongue: Lol Yeah. I mean weaker.

M X

17-01-2009, 01:49 PM

http://www.divadivodance.com/blog/uploaded_images/TheFame_cvr-756622.jpg
Lady GaGa - The Fame
Year of Release - 2009 [UK]

1. Just Dance (feat. Colby O'Donis) [10/10]
2. LoveGame [9.8/10]
3. Paparazzi [8.9/10]
4. Poker Face [10/10]
5. I Like It Rough [10/10]
6. Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) [9.9/10]
7. Starstruck (feat. Space Cowboy + Flo Rida) [9.7/10]
8. Beautiful, Dirty, Rich [10/10]
9. The Fame [10/10]
10. Money Honey [10/10]
11. Boys Boys Boys [8.9/10]
12. Paper Gangsta [9.5/10]
13. Brown Eyes [10/10]
14. Summerboy [7/10]
15. [bonus track] Disco Heaven [6.9/10]
16. [bonus track] Again Again [9.8/10]

Altogether;;
One Word. Wow! Lady GaGa is a brand new dance artist who has been bursting onto the music scene for the last few weeks. This album is flawless! Not one single filler and my favourite album of all time. I'm addicted & Lady Gaga definitley has a big future ahead of herself. The last few songs on the album are quite rock-disco-funk orientated and the first half very dance-pop.. beautiful!
*****/*****
5 out of five stars
10/10
ten out of ten.

I know I have already reviewed this but she has released a revised UK edition and I bought the old edition from the US ages ago.

MrGaryy

17-01-2009, 09:01 PM

Originally posted by Billy
Originally posted by Gazbo
Originally posted by TheMichaelO
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/e/e1/Circus-_Album.png
Britney Spears - Circus
Year of Release - 2008

1. Womanizer [9.8/10]
2. Circus [10/10]
3. Out From Under [7.6/10]
4. Kill The Lights [8.9/10]
5. Shattered Glass [8.7/10]
6. If U Seek Amy [10/10]
7. Unusual You [9.9/10]
8. Blur [6.9/10]
9. Mmm Papi [4.1/10]
10. Mannequin [9.6/10]
11. Lace and Leather [7.9/10]
12. My Baby [7.1/10]
13. Radar [7/10]
14. Amnesia [9.3/10]
15. Phonography [9.2/10]
16. Rock Me In [8.9/10]

--Overall--
Fantastic album & a really great pop record.
*****/*****
5 out of five
10 out of ten

That is possibly the most pointless review of the whole thread. :rolleyes:

I'd say yours were.

Of course you would.

M X

17-01-2009, 10:30 PM

TBH, I don't see what the fuss is about any reviews. I may need reminding on why I care what someone thinks about something I post.

M X

20-01-2009, 09:53 PM

bump

GhettoSuperstar

20-01-2009, 10:26 PM

http://img477.imageshack.us/img477/6516/chemistryng4.jpg

Girls Aloud - Chemistry [2005]

01. Intro - Could they speak any faster? Probably not. Just a simple beat with a whole lotta attitude. Good way to kick off the album. [8/10]
02. Models - One of thee best album tracks they have. Upbeat, well produced, catchy and has Kimba singing away. I love Nadine's verse as I always think thats where the end is in sight. [10/10]
03. Biology - A corker of a Girls Aloud classic. A fan favourite. Should have been #1 but its nice for it not to be to overplayed. [10/10]
04. Wild Horses - "It's taken a long timeee", one of my favourite Nadine moments. This one was amazing on the Chemistry tour and carries on well from Biology. [9/10]
05. See The Day - A cover of a Dee C Lee song. Not their finest but I do have a soft spot for it. [8/10]
06. Watch Me Go - Another classic album track. Cheryl's rapping is just insane but its incredibly catchy. Instant and fresh. [10/10]
07. Waiting - Reminds me of 'Off The Record' TV series. Consistent track but not one of my favourites. [8/10]
08. Whole Lotta History - Despite it being their lowest selling single it still managed to be a strong fan favourite and is a factor as to how it was released. Beautiful video. [9/10]
09. Long Hot Summer - Fierce fierce fierce. Personal favourite, shows their fun side and the verses are just epic. Love singing along to this one like an Aloud mega fan. [10/10]
10. Swinging London Town - Is quite an epic album track. Not single material as it might not click with many people. Although I do find it a bit out of place on this album, I think it suits WWTNS better. [8.5/10]
11. It's Magic - Nicola wrote this track and although its good, it's not their best. I do love the verses and the bridges very much. [7.5/10]
12. No Regrets - Showcases Nadine's voice beautifully. She's so talented! It's a simple ballad but its perfect. [9/10]
13. Racy Lacey - Another upbeat track, very girly. Good way to end the album on a high note. [8/10]

Overall it's a phenomenal pop album with so many different elements to it. It's strengths are that it was such a fan favourite era and it provided us with so much material including exclusive b-sides, dvds and such. Love the single choices too and this album was just incredible to see live on tour. It's biggest weakness is that it can be a bit all over the place as it goes from a big uptempo to a slow balland and then to something darker or something mind boggling. I love it though, it's a treasure. [10/10]

MrGaryy

20-01-2009, 10:34 PM

Originally posted by TheMichaelO
TBH, I don't see what the fuss is about any reviews. I may need reminding on why I care what someone thinks about something I post.

Remind? I never said you had to care in the first place, I was just making a statement.

M X

21-01-2009, 06:28 PM

Me too.

M X

24-01-2009, 04:26 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/e/ef/Control.jpg
Janet Jackson - Control
Year of Release - 1986

1. Control [10/10]
2. Nasty [9.8/10]
3. What Have You Done for Me Lately [8.7/10]
4. You Can Be Mine [7.6/10]
5. The Pleasure Principle [9/10]
6. When I Think of You [10/10]
7. He Doesn't Know I'm Alive [9.7/10]
8. Let's Wait Awhile [10/10]
9. Funny How Time Flies (When You're Having Fun) [9.8/10]

--Overall--
Janet Jackson clearly shines in this record which is full of fantastic pop, hip-hop busting tunes. Compared to her previous awful two albums this is just magnificent. One of my favourite albums I own.

*****/*****
5 out of five stars.

thomaslemon

24-01-2009, 04:39 PM

who sang the last song on celeb big brother

it went 'wanna need somebody........'

Locke.

24-01-2009, 04:39 PM

Originally posted by thomaslemon
who sang the last song on celeb big brother

it went 'wanna need somebody........'

Kings of Leon - Use Somebody

KKBL

24-01-2009, 04:40 PM

Originally posted by thomaslemon
who sang the last song on celeb big brother

it went 'wanna need somebody........'

LOL its Use Somebody by the Kings Of Leon.

M X

24-01-2009, 08:42 PM

It's really popular at the moment -

Kings of Leon - Use Somebody

M X

24-01-2009, 08:42 PM

Originally posted by thomaslemon
who sang the last song on celeb big brother

it went 'wanna need somebody........' Why you posting that in here LOL?

M X

25-01-2009, 08:28 PM

http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/080620/xtina-back-to-basics_l.jpg
Christina Aguilera - Back to Basics
Year of Release - 2006

Disc One

1. Intro - A cute little introduction to get yourself pumped for the album. [6.6/10]

2. Makes Me Wanna Prey (feat. Steve Winwood) - A good duet track with Steve Winwood. Sometimes can be a little bit average as it isn't a stand out track. [5/10]

3. Back in the Day - I enjoy this track. There is something about the lyrical content which makes me really get into the song. [7.8/10]

4. Ain't No Other Man - Not doubt that this song is a very catchy track and I love the lyrics but it sort of reminds me of a cheap cabaret show in Las Vegas. [8/10]

5. Understand - Hmm.. Not sure on this track. Maybe a grower but I'm not sure. When I listen to this record I sometimes skip this track. It fails to catch me. Maybe - eventually, it will become a grower. [4.5/10]

6. Slow Down Baby - A bit bland and a filler. Nothing makes it stand out for me. [5.6/10]

7. Oh Mother - After the slightly dire tracks "Understand" & "Slow Down Baby" I feel that it is a much needed great track. It is a mind catcher and will stick with you. [8.9/10]

8. F.U.S.S. - Oh god, I love this track! Listening to the lyrics at first I soo love it (**** You Scott Storch??) [9.1/10]

9. On Our Way - Hmmm.. certainly a track which I said ''mehh!" on, on first listens but it's a disapoint after the fantastic "F.U.S.S." shame really. [5/10]

10. Without You - A good track with great lyrics. I capurted me into believing, I loved it! [7.1/10]

11. Still Dirrty - Christina getting back into her far to far sexiness days perhaps? Stripped? Mabye not.. [6.5/10]

12. Here to Stay - A real filler. A disapointment as I was hoping something good to begin the goodbye on disc one. [4.3/10]

13. Thank You (Dedication to Fans...) - Aww.. sweet! A nice "Thank You" to her loyal fans. Shame it's not a very good song. [5.6/10]

Disc Two

1. Enter the Circus - I actually really like this song. Really cabaret but a good song. A good small introduction to the second part of this record. [9/10]

2. Welcome - Quite a short track but still a artistic success. I like! [7.8/10]

3. Candyman - The best song on the either of the disc's so far! I love the theme and the sexy lyrics! [10/10]

4. Nasty Naughty Boy - The first filler on the second disc. A disapointed to the so far better disk from the first. [5/10]

5. I Got Trouble - Ohh! A nice track but still very cabaret. It's the sound of a woman trying to be old-fashioned. However, I do love this song. [7.7/10]

6. Hurt - Best ballad. Comes close to Stripped's amazing "Beautiful" as Aguilera's best ballad of her carrer. [10/10]

7. Mercy on Me - A bland one. Nothing there that's very special. [7/10]

8. Save Me from Myself - I like this song. It's a one that has you entertained from start to finish. [8.9/10]

9. The Right Man - Amazing! I really love this song. A good follow-up from the lovley "Save Me from Myself". [7.8/10]

10. Back to Basics - Hmm.. quite a disapointing way to close the record but it's still a good track. [7/10]

--Overall--
I'm torn. This album has the sound of a woman trying desperatley to sound like Marilyn Monroe or something like a cheap cabaret show you would see for a few dollars in Las Vegas. Her strong vocals are sometimes over powerd by real instruments ("Ain't No Other Man") like saxophones etc. It also has a number of bland fillers [/i]("Understand","Slow Down Baby", "Mercy on Me" etc.). Regardless of it's downfalls I do enjoy a few tracks. Stand out's include "Hurt", "Candyman", "F.U.S.S.", "Save me from Myself". I preferred Stripped to the latter so I award it;

***/*****
[/b]3 out of five stars.

*I realise some people
thought I wasn't
really reviewing
so I wrote what
I felt about
each track.

xDramatick

25-01-2009, 08:39 PM

Mercy On Me is amaaaazing ^
I think the album's not really for pop lovers, seeing as it's not a pop album?

Princess

25-01-2009, 08:42 PM

Back to Basics :love: Welcome is one of my all time fav songs! And I argee with Darenn,Mercy on Me is amazinggg,as is Makes Me Wanna Pray!

M X

25-01-2009, 09:14 PM

It's not the fact it's not a pop album, I love albums of various genres. It's just Back to Basics on some parts, failed to amaze me.

Jen

25-01-2009, 09:35 PM

The Killers: Day & Age

http://i41.tinypic.com/10ehv6x.jpg

Track 1: Losing Touch I do think this is a great opening track, when describing this song I imagine the opening of a Killers concert, used to excite the audience. Overall a good song to Robot Dance to. Obv. 6/10
Track 2: Human Even though this song has been played to death on every radio station imaginable... it is undoubtedly a great song. 7/10
Track 3: Spaceman Awesome second single. in the "Uh Uh Oh" bits I know they will make many a person jump up and down in a festival manner. Great Lyrics, maybe a few unsteady vocals but that is what makes this record so special. 9/10
Track 4: Joy Ride Not one of my favourites on the album. Brilliant song to have as background noise, I'm not particularly feeling it. They lyrics are excellent and the chorus saves the record completely. 4/10
Track 5: A Dustland Fairytale My favourite song off this album, it is so beautiful. It also has a very special meaning to Brandon Flowers himself. The song is about how his Mother and Father met and eventually fell in love, then as the years pass by his Mother gets cancer and its basically about how she is fighting it even though they all know she will die soon. Just an incredible song. 10/10
Track 6: This Is Your Life My second favourite song from the album, a great song, beautiful lyrics and perfect vocals. Nothing more to ask for. 9/10
Track 7: I can't Stay I love to dance to this song. It is so upbeat and heartfelt at the same time... I adore it. 9.5/10
Track 8: Neon Tiger This song has been hyped so much. Many love it... many hate it. I love it. Its great, clever lyrics and a different tune. Brilliant. 9/10
Track 9: The World We Live In The first time I heard this song was a couple of weeks before the album was released, it was on You Tube and it interested me.. the title alone. I was drawn to it when I first listened. It reminds me of a song that NEEDS to be featured in Gossip Girl. I know.. random...but it needs to be featured in that show.. LOL 8/10
Track 10: Goodnight, Travel Well I love this song. It is just so clever. Very slow but so well done. It reminds me so much of "Everything Will Be Alright" from The Killers' debut album, "Hot Fuss". 7/10

Bonus Tracks

Track 10: A Crippling Blow As I feel I am repeating myself... I shall just say... listen to this song. It is brilliant.... and very blunt. 8/10
Track 11: Forget About What I Said A good song, well for a bonus track. I enjoy listening to it. I recommend it to anyone who needs a study song. 7/10

Callum

25-01-2009, 10:19 PM

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e100/mychemicalparamore/paramoreteam/ParamoreRiotPreorder.jpg

Paramore - Riot!

1. For a Pessimist, I'm Pretty Optimistic A great song to start off the album, I love the chorus and the guitar intro. Hayley's vocals are great in this. [8/10]

2. That's What You Get I love the whole feel of this song, the sound of the guitars in the background is immense. The chorus itself isn't very strong but it's a nice track. [7/10]

3. Hallelujah Great intro to the song with the guitars. Not a personal favourite of mine though. It's a bit bland. [6/10]

4. Misery Business One of my favourite songs of all time, it's just incredible. The guitars at the beginning create a great atmosphere to a fantastic song. The chorus is stunning, Hayley sings it with such passion. I love the end of the last verse where you can just hear the guitars, it gives me chills. [10/10]

5. When It Rains A nice song, a lot calmer paced than Misery Business. It shows off Hayley's immense vocals. [6.5/10]

6. Let the Flames Begin Great song, it has a nice beat to it. The chorus is really powerful, it starts quite calmy and then goes into a fierce tone in the chorus. [7.5/10]

7. Miracle I like this song, however has to be said the chorus is quite weak. Not a stand out track but it's not bad either. [6.5/10]

8. Crushcrushcrush Love this song. I love the chorus especially, the sound of the guitars in the song sounds brilliant as well. I like how the whole song follows a pattern, it works well. [9/10]

9. We Are Broken A very slow paced song, but I really like it. The lyrics were very well written. [7.5/10]

10. Fences Love this song, I love the beat to the song and the rhythm. The chorus is great, one of my favourite songs from the album. [9/10]

11. Born for This This song is just immense. I love the start, it sounds so good. The chorus is really good too, and the vocals are great. [8/10]

Overall, I think it's a great album. Although some songs are better than others, I could listen to the whole thing without skipping any. One of my favourite albums ever, I wish I could have seen them perform it live. Obviously a lot of hard work went into the album and it reflects on the music.

5 out of 5

M X

30-01-2009, 08:15 PM

http://cover6.cduniverse.com/msiart/large/0000531/0000531020.jpg
La Toya Jackson - La Toya Jackson
Year of Release - 1980

1. If You Feel The Funk [8.9/10] A really good 70's-inspired disco/funk/soul song which really reminds me of a 1978 party (afro, anybody?)

2. Save Your Love [6/10] A good song, a little bit average but on the whole, good.

3. My Love Has Passed You By [7.8/10] A really nice song. La Toya has really good vocals on this track.

4. Are You Ready? [9.1/10] Very D.I.S.C.O!

5. Night Time Lover [8/10] I like this song.. very good dance/soul song which I love!

6. A Taste Of You [7.8/10] I like! La Toya has the voice of the La Toya we have always known!

7. Lovley Is She [6.7/10] A great groove song.

8. If I Ain't Got It [8.9/10] What a fantastic way to finish this record!

--Overall--

Being LaToya Jackson's incredibly underrated debut album (which only managed to peak at #178 in the UK and #116 in the US) is just that, SO underrated! Throughout the whole disc LaToya shines and shows that she is just as talented as Michael & Janet.

****/*****
4 out of five stars.

MrGaryy

30-01-2009, 08:47 PM

Originally posted by Callum
http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e100/mychemicalparamore/paramoreteam/ParamoreRiotPreorder.jpg

Paramore - Riot!

1. For a Pessimist, I'm Pretty Optimistic A great song to start off the album, I love the chorus and the guitar intro. Hayley's vocals are great in this. [8/10]

2. That's What You Get I love the whole feel of this song, the sound of the guitars in the background is immense. The chorus itself isn't very strong but it's a nice track. [7/10]

3. Hallelujah Great intro to the song with the guitars. Not a personal favourite of mine though. It's a bit bland. [6/10]

4. Misery Business One of my favourite songs of all time, it's just incredible. The guitars at the beginning create a great atmosphere to a fantastic song. The chorus is stunning, Hayley sings it with such passion. I love the end of the last verse where you can just hear the guitars, it gives me chills. [10/10]

5. When It Rains A nice song, a lot calmer paced than Misery Business. It shows off Hayley's immense vocals. [6.5/10]

6. Let the Flames Begin Great song, it has a nice beat to it. The chorus is really powerful, it starts quite calmy and then goes into a fierce tone in the chorus. [7.5/10]

7. Miracle I like this song, however has to be said the chorus is quite weak. Not a stand out track but it's not bad either. [6.5/10]

8. Crushcrushcrush Love this song. I love the chorus especially, the sound of the guitars in the song sounds brilliant as well. I like how the whole song follows a pattern, it works well. [9/10]

9. We Are Broken A very slow paced song, but I really like it. The lyrics were very well written. [7.5/10]

10. Fences Love this song, I love the beat to the song and the rhythm. The chorus is great, one of my favourite songs from the album. [9/10]

11. Born for This This song is just immense. I love the start, it sounds so good. The chorus is really good too, and the vocals are great. [8/10]

Overall, I think it's a great album. Although some songs are better than others, I could listen to the whole thing without skipping any. One of my favourite albums ever, I wish I could have seen them perform it live. Obviously a lot of hard work went into the album and it reflects on the music.

5 out of 5

LOL this actually convinced me to download this. :joker::blush2:

M X

31-01-2009, 10:05 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/51/Michaeljacksonthrilleralbum.jpg
Michael Jackson - Thriller
Year of Release - 1982

1. Wanna' Be Startin' Somethin' [10/10] One of the most legendary Michael songs of all time! He proves he is the king of pop with this amazing up-beat classic.

2. Baby Be Mine [7/10] Not the best on the album but still a good track written by Rod Temperton.

3. The Girls is Mine [7.8/10] Classic Michael Jackson. His jumpy voice makes this track!

4. Thriller [10/10] Possibly the most known song ever recorded. But the big question is.. is it a FILLER, FILLER NIGHTS, hehe - it's a fantastic track which will be known forever.

5. Beat It [10/10] Another amazing classic. Everybody knows it and it's easy to see why.

6. Billie Jean [10/10] A lyrically amazing song about an obsessive Michael Jackson fan. The tune is incredibly catchy & stays with you.

7. Human Nature [9/10] Michael Jackson keeps amazing us with amazing, fantastic songs!

8. P.Y.T (Pretty Young Thing) [8.7/10] I love this song. You want to just listen and keep on listening.

9. The Lady in My Life [6.7/10] You kind of thought a better way would close this flawless album. A nice little closing ballad, I enjoy it.

--Overall--
It's easy to see why this is the most successfull album of all time and the most famous. It keeps on amazing you with fantastic tracks. Pure Michael Jackson.

*****/*****
5 out of five stars.

M X

03-02-2009, 12:21 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/bd/Lilyitsnotmesleeve.jpg
Lily Allen - It's Not Me, It's You
Year of Release - 2009

1. Everyone's at It - It's a really lovley way to start the album. Bit of a weird start but good! [8.9/10]

2. The Fear - a fantastic electronic song. Lily showcases her amazing vocals and songwriting skills. Lovley music video too. [10/10]

3. Not Fair - I can just see her in a video for this - perhaps in a western style or as a cowgirl? This song is just cowgirl-y! I love it. [9.7/10]

4. 22 - Reminds me of an Oasis or Travis classic. It's OK, a bit bland but it's good. [5.6/10]

5. I Could Say - Amazing. I just picture lasers while listening to this song for some reason. [10/10]

6. Back To The Start - The most dance/techno orientated. I song which you can move too. [9.9/10]

7. Never Gonna' Happen - Clap! Clap! Ermm.. the song is ok. [4.9/10]

8. ***** You - I love this song! Probably one of my favourites on the album! [10/10]

9. Who'd Of Known - A similar song to Take That's Smile. I love this ballad-y song. [10/10]

10. Chinese - Another slow song. A more dance beat version of Avril Lavinge's With You in certain parts of the verse.

11. Him - Three slower songs in a row? This song is a bit of a filler. [5.7/10]

12. He Wasn't There - A song written about her father. I love this song. Who'd of Known and this song are probably the best slowish song on the record. [9/10]

--Overall--
Many were concerned if Allen could reach the quality of her previous debut album "Alright, Still". Her debut was very Pop/ska and even reggae styled and this record is very electronic/dance orientated. She has certainly made a record with the quality of her debut. It's a fantastic album and I'm sure will be one of the huge hits of 2009.

****/*****
4 out of five stars.

Billy

03-02-2009, 12:23 PM

lmao "electronic song ":L

Sam!

03-02-2009, 12:50 PM

I never listen to albums because I usually only like certain songs on the albums [released ones] but I love Justice, I got their album, Cross, and so I shall review it :) : thumbs:

----------------------------------------------------------

http://fuzznut.net/images/covers/justice-cross.jpg
Justice - Cross
Year of Release 2007

1. Genesis - Really strange at first but the Justice vibe soon comes through, a nice opening tune. [6/10]
2. Let There Be Light - Again, a bit strange at first, nice beat, perhaps a bit repetitive? Nice though. [6/10]
3. D.A.N.C.E - You cannot hate this song, its utter brilliance. [10/10]
4. Newjack - I think its a pretty cool song and the part near the end is proper groovy. Nice electronic beat. [7/10]
5. Phantom - Proper Justice sounding, has a nice gritty, noisy groove to it. [7/10]
6. Phantom Pt II - Follows on from Phantom, Pt II is immense sounding. Again the grittyness but with a light beat ontop. [8/10]
7. Valentine - Much slower than the others, quite trance sounding. [5.5/10]
8. Tthhee Ppaarrttyy - The vocals by Uffie on this one give it a nice edge, I prefer the quicker remix. But overall one of my favourite Justice songs. [8.5/10]
9. DVNO - Utter Amazingness. I can't fault it, its my favourite ever Justice tune. [10/10]
10. Stress When I first heard it I hated it, but its grown on me and I love it. Quite fierce sounding but brilliant. [9/10]
11. Waters of Nazareth A completely different tune to the others but I like it, really quite funky. [7.5/10]
12. One Minute to Midnight. Sounds similar to Phantom Pt II, but the beat being a bit thicker and lower. It's a nice way to end the album. [8/10]

Overall, Justice being one of my favourite artists - I love their album. You know its Justice when you hear one of their songs, cause the beats are so gritty, thick - perhaps DaftPunk a like but all the same completley original. Brilliant album overall

*****
5 stars from me.

M X

03-02-2009, 01:28 PM

Originally posted by Billy
lmao "electronic song ":L hahaa, it is! :tongue:

M X

03-02-2009, 03:56 PM

http://cache.interscope.com/images/local/200/d395972a-741a-4b21-866e-6236ccf9d8a1.jpg
Lady GaGa - The Cherrytree Sessions [EP]
Year of Release - 2009

1. Poker Face [Piano & Voice Version] - Her voice just completley shines in this live track. She sounds like a goddess. [10/10]

2. Just Dance [Stripped Down Version] A fantastic live stripped down version of the smash hit Just Dance. Again, her voice is outstanding. She has a very Christina mixed with Gwen when she sings live. [10/10]

3. Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) [Electric Piano & Human Beat Box Version]. Wow! Nothing Else I Can Say (hehe). [10/10].

--Overall--
A fantastic small three track live EP. Fantastic Gaga proves herself once again. Just proves that even though her music is very studio edited she can still sing!

[b]*****/*****
5 out of five stars.

M X

06-02-2009, 01:15 PM

various covers
http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/8697/badigrl9md.jpg
LaToya Jackson - Bad Girl
Original Edition Release Year - 1989

1. Bad Girl [9.1/10] Wow! What a fantastic way to start the album. It's a fun, jumpy and up-beat disco track.

2. You and Me [6.7/10] It's a good song but can be a little boring.

3. He's My Brother [9.1/10] Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, Randy etc.. certainly Michael. The lyrics "He's no Thriller, he's still the Man in the Mirror" pretty much tells you could LaToya co-wrote it about. Fantastic song and the best ballad on the whole record.

4. Restless Heart [7.8/10] It's an okay song; nothing spectacular.

5. Playboy (Be My) [8.1/10] Something about this song makes me really like it. It's very risky. At the time of making this record she was under the control of her husband and manager Jack Gordon who forced her to pose nude for Playboy and made her sing very sexual songs.

6. You Can Count On Me [6.5/10] It is a filler. It's not a bad song - just not brilliant.

7. Somewhere [6.7/10] A nice soft lovley ballad.

8. Sexual Feeling [5/10] Woah! Take it easy.. for about three minutes of this song it consists of Jackson making sex noises and saying "Ooo. Yeah, that's good - that's nice, keep going!" etc. Not much lyrics.

9. Be My Lover [7.1/10] A good ballad. A little bit dull and a more soulfull version of something you'd expect of Sheryl Crow. Jackson's voice is so small in this song you struggle to hear her.

10. He's So Good To Me [8.4/10] This was aparently a song Jack Gordon made LaToya sing. Certainly not about him, eh? Good song but compared to some of the other songs. A filler!

11. Do The Salsa [10/10] The best song on the whole record. You can't stay still. It's a very sensual up-beat salsa track!

12. Piano Man [9.8/10] A very good way to finish of the record. Love it!!!

--Overall--
A fantastic album again by Ms. Jackson - she continues to impress me.
****/*****
4 out of five stars.

Sam!

06-02-2009, 01:17 PM

God you do alot of these don't you.

M X

06-02-2009, 01:20 PM

Originally posted by Sam!
God you do alot of these don't you. :tongue:
Well - I'm always listening to music and I'm off the school for a while because I'm sick so I'm really bored.

Princess

10-02-2009, 04:08 PM

Same Difference-Pop
http://i456.photobucket.com/albums/qq286/__Ste__/Same-Difference-Pop-453620.jpg
Year of Release-2008

When I bought this album I wasn't expected quality music but what I got was just as good. This album is like Skittles,sweet,a bit sickly if you have too much but you always go back for more. They're impossible not to love. Pop is full to the brim of sugary sweet tunes,from the child-like 'I Need A House' to the HSM cover of 'Breaking Free'. 'Still Amazed' and 'Right Between the Eyes' provide the ever so slighty more grown up ballads.
Conclusion: Poptastic! Cheesy lyrics,cheesy music but who doesn't love cheese?
Best Track:Let Me Be The One
Worst Track:All The Roads Lead To Haevn
4/5
****

KKBL

20-02-2009, 03:18 PM

Lady GaGa - The Fame
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/38/Album_Cover-The_Fame.jpg
1.Just Dance (feat Colby O Donnis & Akon) - 10/10
2.LoveGame - 8/10
3.Paparazzi - 8/10
4.Poker Face - 10/10
5.I Like It Rough - 10/10
6.Eh Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) - 7/10
7.Starstruck (feat Space Cowboy & Flo Rida) - 9/10
8.Beautiful,Dirty,Rich - 8/10
9.The Fame - 7/10
10.Money Honey - 6/10
11.Boys,Boys,Boys - 7/10
12.Paper Ganster - 10/10
13.Brown Eyes - 6/10
14.Summer Boy - 2/10

Overall id give the album 8/10

M X

22-02-2009, 07:46 PM

Summerboy = 2/10 :conf:

Firewire

18-03-2009, 06:00 PM

Hannah Montana: The Movie Soundtrack
http://www.popmusicscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/windowslivewriterhannahmontanathemoviesoundtrackar tworkth-8418hannah-montana-themovie-soundtrack-artwork-thumb.jpg

This is the movie soundtrack to Hannah Montana: The Movie. There are songs by Hannah Montana, Miley Cyrus, Billy Ray Cyrus, Rascal Flatts, Steve Rushton & Taylor Swift.

Release Date: 23/3/09

1. You'll Always Find Your Way Back Home [Hannah Montana] 9/10
2. Let's Get Crazy [Hannah Montana] 9/10
3. The Good Life [Hannah Montana] 8.5/10
4. Everything I Want [Steve Rushton] 8/10
5. Don't Walk Away [Miley Cyrus] 8/10
6. Hoedown Throwdown [Miley Cyrus] 9.5/10
7. Dream [Miley Cyrus] 8/10
8. The Climb [Miley Cyrus] 10/10
9. Butterfly Fly Away [Miley & Billy Ray Cyrus] 8/10
10. Backwards (Acoustic) [Rascal Flatts] 8/10
11. Back To Tennessee [Billy Ray Cyrus] 8/10
12. Crazier [Taylor Swift] 9/10
13. Bless The Broken Road (Acoustic) [Rascal Flatts] 8/10
14. Let's Do This [Hannah Montana] 9/10
15. Spotlight [Hannah Montana] 8.5/10
16. Game Over [Steve Rushton] 8/10
17. What's Not To Like [Hannah Montana] 9.25/10
18. The Best of Both Worlds (2009 Movie Mix) [Hannah Montana] 9.375/10

Best songs on the album: The Climb, Hoedown Throwdown, Best of Both Worlds, What's Not To Like, You'll Always Find Your Way Back Home, Let's Get Crazy, Crazier & Let's Do This.

Harry!

18-03-2009, 06:43 PM

http://files.myopera.com/apolominas/blog/confessions_on_a_dancefloor.jpg
Madonna - Confessions On A Dance Floor (2005)
1. Hung Up - Great start to the album with Abba sampled 'Gimme Gimme Gime' to a pure pop finish [7/10]
2.Get Together - Madonna softer single which is a grower if you only heard it for the first time [7/10]
3.Sorry - One of my fave Madonna singles in one of the most darkest tack on the album [8/10]
4.Future Lovers - A disco type track which was the first track of her tour [7.5/10]
5.I Love New York - Madonna sings heavy rock style which shows life in New York [8/10]
6.Let It Will Be - I love this track, Very fast pased and rock like simalar to 'I Love New York' [8/10]
7.Forbidden Love - Very good song to listen to if you want to listen to a fresh track. My fave non-single on the album [8.5/10]
8.Jump - Best track on the album! Dance sounding as well. [9/10]
9.How High - Madge sounds like Kylie in this track! Good song for Kylie fans [7/10]
10.Isaac - Song proformed with Isaac from her tour, Very asian sounding song. [7.5/10]
11.Push - In my opinion the most boring song on the album but it is still good to listen to [6/10]
12.Like It Or Not - Like the track title you 'Like It Or Not' with the last track but it was good preformed live [8/10]

Overall a great album 10/10!

Ninastar

18-03-2009, 06:46 PM

I will do one when i am not feeling lazy

Never

Shaun

20-03-2009, 02:55 AM

I know this is quite an old album, but it's a free country and this isn't just for new stuff :tongue: I came across it when I found a box of old CDs the other day...and since I think they're a really underrated band, I thought I'd review this album.

http://www.artistdirect.com/Images/Sources/AMGCOVERS/music/cover200/drg700/g798/g79859d6i1l.jpg

Basement Jaxx - The Singles
Obviously this is a shameless compilation of their famous material to make money, but...well, music is a ruthless industry. Make or break and all that jazz. A lot of people I know often hear me playing one of Basement Jaxx's songs and think "isn't that off that advert?" and ask me who the artist. Indeed, most people when asked "name a Basement Jaxx song" would struggle, perhaps only remembering "Where's Your Head At?" for the memorable music video.

So I'll dive straight in to the album.

Track#1 - Red Alert - One of their most famous singles; Red Alert does what it says on the tin. It grabs your attention and with its catchy, yet bizarre, synthesized beats and vocals, makes you want to dance like an animal. And the music keeps on playing on and on, indeed. Rating: 8/10
Track#2 - Good Luck - A feel-good song about a woman dumping her two-timing lover and getting a kick of revenge in whilst she remembers to. The music video is simple: it's her driving. A song for womankind everywhere. Rating: 6.5/10
Track#3 - Romeo - Basement Jaxx are renowned for bringing in foreign and alternative music styles into their famed electronic sound, and no single pays homage to this greater than Romeo. With an elaborate Bollywood-style video to coincide with this release, Romeo is a glimmering ray of sunshine into an otherwise unfriendly-sounding electronic scene. Rating: 9/10
Track#4 - Oh My Gosh - One of their more recent releases, Oh My Gosh is a tongue-in-cheek tale about a naughty encounter with a stranger. With its cheeky vocals and funny video (depicting the characters mentioned in the song as horny members of a retirement home), OMG is evidence of the band's broad and simple appeal. Rating: 7/10
Track #5 - Bingo Bango - Perhaps a little less structured than other singles, Bingo Bango turns up the carnival vibe and listening it without thinking of Notting Hill or Mardi Gras is a struggle. A tad repetitive, however, with no real chorus or bridge to discern between 4 minutes of nonsensical shouting. Rating: 5/10
Track #6 - Where's Your Head At? - Their most famous exploit. A video with scientists mutating humans and monkeys together and watching as the results go haywire, perfectly compliments this wild and weird musical adventure. Almost sinister. Rating: 8/10
Track #7 - Rendez-Vu - Picture yourself in a Morocco beach. The sun is burning your neck and your eyes grow tired from all the squinting in the light. This song perfectly accompanies that feeling. A distinctly Mediterranean influence resides over this track, as if shouting for a siesta. Rating: 6.5/10
Track#8 - Jump 'N Shout - Crank up the nonsense vibe and we come to Jump 'N Shout, which seemingly asks you to do nothing else. Menacing vocals and a dirty beat, but you get the feeling that you can only really appreciate this under the influence of heavy narcotics. Rating: 5/10.
Track#9 - Lucky Star - We've seen Bollywood and the Mediterannean, but come Track 9 we're stopping in Arabia. With guest vocals from Dizzee Rascal, Lucky Star is a bit of a mess if I'm honest. Mixing Arabesque music with UK Hip Hop is a big no-go. Rating: 3/10
Track#10 - Plug It In - My personal favourite of the album. Vocals from JC Chasez bring a distinctly rock vibe to the eclectic styles of Jaxx, and it works well. A real punch is packed with the chorus, and lyrics are spat out in a mixture of malice and cool. Almost sexy. Rating: 9/10
Track#11 - U Don't Know Me - Featuring the same vocalist as Good Luck, we return to the sense of a woman scorned. This song almost purrs, but it seems almost slow by Jaxx standards. Rating: 5.5/10
Track#12 - Do Your Thing - Made famous on an advert of some form, with a cute video with people wearing T-Shirts proudly proclaiming the lyrics, Do Your Thing is a welcome piece of nostalgia from Summers gone by. Trumpets included, I dare you not to dance. Rating: 9/10
Track#13 - Jus 1 Kiss - You get a real sense of the album winding down by this point, and picture yourself, if you will, in the lounge area of a bar after a night's incessant dancing to techno music. I often feel picturing yourself in certain situations helps to describe music a little better than saying "it's relaxing". Not bad, but not so memorable. Rating: 7/10
Track#14 - Flylife - A little of grunge and grime is thrown in here and we're reminded that the Jaxx party is not over yet. An almost fairground feel, this track is something more of a conventional club tune than their other hits. For that reason it doesn't impress so much. Rating: 6/10
Track#15 - Samba Magic - Final track of the album, and Samba Magic is an amalgamation of all sounds Basement Jaxx are known for. There's a sense of delirium/euphoria underlying all the uptempo and crazy dancing. A great end to the album. Rating: 7/10

Conclusion:
I should warn anyone buying this album that, come the end of all tracks, there will be an unfortunate reminder of British weather and that it's only March. Whilst it's not ideal for our weather to have such a strong impact on your music, it's hard to appreciate the beauty of Romeo or Jus 1 Kiss in the pouring rain on London's busy streets.
However, if you retain a little optimism, or are looking for something to chuck on your playlists for a Summer barbeque or soiree, you cannot go wrong here. You won't find any hidden depth, politics or tragedy on this album, and in a sense that's a bit of a shortcoming. But in a world of eternal recession and gloomy weather, Basement Jaxx offer a welcome beacon on the horizon. And for that reason, I give this album an 8 out of 10.

Shaun

20-03-2009, 03:59 AM

Another old album here, but still...**** off.

Fall Out Boy - Infinity On High
http://img.tesco.com/pi/entertainment/CD/LF/759146_CD_L_F.jpg

Track#1 - Thriller - No, no similarities to the Michael Jackson zombie-fest. Equally unusual, though, is the guest appearance from Jay-Z on this track. Immediately fans are inundated with the familiar listener-friendly guitar chords and jilted, yet effective, vocals of Stump. A brilliant opener. Rating: 9/10
Track#2 - "The Take Over, The Break's Over" - Ah yes, the ongoing tradition for long-winded song titles hasn't dissipated. A simple and repetitive guitar riff lingers throughout this song, but never really amounts to anything. The song comes to an end with almost painful vocals, but come the next track you won't remember this. Rating: 5/10
Track#3 - This Ain't A Scene, It's An Arms Race - The first single off the album, and perhaps one of their most commercially successful of all time. With suitably weird video in tow, teenage girls' hearts racing at the site of Pete Wentz dying in guyliner, Fall Out Boy have finally hit the big time and they know it. Shout along as you will. Rating: 8/10
Track#4 - I'm Like A Lawyer With The Ways I'm Always Trying To Get You Off (Me & You) - Whilst some song titles are confusing, you can't fault their effort. A lot more of a generic love song and user-friendly than their other material, Me&You is a decent, if forgettable filler. Rating: 5.5/10
Track#5 - Hum Hallelujah - The epitome of generic FOB. Yawn. Rating: 1/10
Track#6 - Golden - The contrast in quality between the preceding track and this is staggering. Swapping overused and overstated guitar riffs for a haunting piano melody, Stump eerily chants this ballad. The lyrics "And I saw God cry in the reflection of my enemies" conjure goosebumps. My favourite from the album, and possibly of all their work. Rating: 10/10
Track#7 - Thnks Fr Th Mmrs - Don't ask me where the vowels went. Second single time and their best single from the album if you ask me. It has everything about FOB that made them famous - catchy, sing-along lyrics (that you can actually decipher! Bonus!) and an "I Don't Care" style guitar riff. Nice addition in the strings, too. Rating: 9/10
Track#8 - Don't You Know Who I Think I Am? - Drums and clapping help to establish a steady rhythm throughout, but are slightly let down by uninspiring vocals/lyrics. Rating: 5/10
Track#9 - The (After) Life Of The Party - "I'm a stitch away from making it, and a scar away from falling apart." Excellent lyrics sung with gusto, and euphoric instrumentals suitable for any 'Gossip Girl' (or other shoddy teen drama) sad moment. My second favourite of the album. Rating: 10/10
Track#10 - The Carpal Tunnel Of Love - At this point of the album you're starting to fail to distinguish which song was which. Unfortunately, that's the case here. A valiant effort on the electric guitar's part, but another example of uninspired tune. Rating: 4/10
Track#11 - Bang the Doldrums - If you like Fall Out Boy, Pirates of the Caribbean and are looking for an immediate correlation between the two, I'd recommend this. Jolly and catchy drum-beats make you feel as if aboard a galleon and waving a pitcher of beer whilst chanting along to the chorus of "Woah-oh-ohs". Rating: 7/10
Track#12 - Fame < Infamy - One of the more ferocious efforts on behalf of our guitar-wielding emos here, and one of the more memorable efforts too. By no means their best, but a welcome improvement. Rating: 8/10
Track#13 - You're Crashing, But You're No Wave - Angry vocals are shouted by Stump, but if only you could hear what they were actually saying. Often is the case with Fall Out Boy where you can't understand what's being said (almost rivalling Kurt Cobain's confusion-ability on Smells Like Teen Spirit). Rating: 6/10
Track #14 - I've Got All This Ringing In My Ears And None On My Fingers - A competition was held by FOB amongst fans to come up with an inventive song title for this track, perhaps indicative of how much meaning is behind this effort. A nice, creative name, but a dull song. Rating: 3/10
Track#15 - G.I.N.A.S.F.S. - The bonus track. Wondering what those initials stand for? It's "Gay Is Not A Synonym For Stupid". Nice politically correct statement I suppose, but when said people using that synonym are about 12 years old, it's not really worth the effort combatting it. Anyway, the song's...average at best. Rating: 5/10

Conclusion:
Whilst there are a lot of radio-friendly tracks here to titillate the already-established Fall Out Boy fans, there's a sense that the band aren't really trying to branch out and experiment with other musical stylings. Although for me, this isn't too much of a problem, given that I've been fond of their previous material, one can almost sympathise with the criticisms against the band that they sound repetitive and boring.
There are some valiant attempts though - taking a leaf from Linkin Park's book and bringing in Jay-Z for their first track is a bold step indeed. But where's the follow-up?
For these reasons, I'm inclined to go down from what was originally an 8 to a 7/10.

Shaun

20-03-2009, 08:57 AM

Another review...I'm on fire today.

The Scissor Sisters - Ta-Dah!
http://www.gabrielleluthy.com/images/tadah.jpg

Now I'm going to be a little bit biased for this review as this remains, to this day, the only act I've gone to see in concert. And that was possibly the most fun experience of my life. So I'll try and tone down the nostalgia from that trip and give a fair report into the album.

The second album, a follow up to their self-titled debut, Ta-Dah! reached Number#1 on the UK charts and gave birth to several successful singles.

Tracklisting:
Track One: I Don't Feel Like Dancin' - With Elton John as a guest on the Old Joanna, the first single from the album is their best and most famous. Tragic lyrics set to an irresistably jolly backdrop, this song is guaranteed to make everyone dance. The song of 2006, IMO. Rating: 11/10
Track Two: She's My Man - Their second single from the album, She's My Man has a 70s-style guitar groove lingering under lyrics of rusty razor blades and choking. A crowd-pleaser, but I'm not entirely sure why. I mean it's great, but not one of the best on the album. Rating: 9/10
Track Three: I Can't Decide - Almost stepping into a dodgy 80s cop show theme-tune, I Can't Decide sings about "****ing and kissing you at the same time" and indecision over your fate as if reciting a shopping list. Very 'My Name Is Earl' in that a distinctly Southern-USA sound is prominent. A fun little number. Rating: 8/10
Track Four: Lights - Disco funk is introduced here and blends in suitably with their other material. What it lacks in a memorable chorus, though, it makes up for with relaxed coolness. Rating: 7/10
Track Five: Land Of A Thousand Words - Ballad number#1 of the album, and whilst the band aren't generally renowned for their softer side, success in previous single 'Mary' begs to suggest otherwise. Perhaps lost amongst a sea of camp, flamboyant dancing in concert, but a welcome breather in audio. Rating: 7/10
Track Six: Intermission - I'm generally not a fan of this whole 'intermission' idea some artists use on their albums. I mean, people have a pause button for a reason. Though I suppose if listening the whole way through, that'd make sense, haha. A rather Bohemian, raggedy-doll feel to this offering. But intermissions aren't anything to look out for when you want a performance. Rating: 5/10
Track Seven: Kiss You Off - Single no#3 from the album, and after a break, we're inundated with eery gospel chanting. Descending into a Pet Shop Boys-style groove (reminiscent of the single 'Love'), this song oozes attitude and sexuality. Rating: 10/10
Track Eight: Ooh - How gloriously camp, I hear you cry. And that is what this song is in a nutshell. Unabashedly fun, and nothing more. Rating: 8/10
Track Nine: Paul McCartney - The opening screams are oddly reminiscent of the crowd waiting for the band to come on-stage. Or of a party I once attended where the lights went off and people started stripping. Hmm. Odd song title aside, since as far as I'm aware, he doesn't feature, this is another funky dance number. Perhaps my 2nd favourite of the album. Rating: 9/10
Track Ten: The Other Side - A little wind-down from the rest of the album, TOS is...if I'm honest, a little dreary. Very Softcell, or Tears for Fears though. Personally not such a fan. Rating: 5/10
Track Eleven: Might Tell You Tonight - Another ballad, Shears shows off his perhaps understated abilities, tackling impressive semantics with ease. A slow, yet woozy song that you'll find yourself swaying to, guaranteed. Rating: 8/10
Track Twelve: Everybody Wants The Same Thing - More disco funk and the 12th track offers one of the album's more "sing-along-able" (soon to be in my very own Collins Dictionary) songs. Not a lot to talk about though, a very bread-and-water song. Rating: 6.5/10
Track Thirteen: Transistor - Miles away from the rest of the album, Ta-Dah! ends on Transistor. A bizarre dream sequence very strongly influenced by their previous albums' songs such as Comfortably Numb and The Skins. An interesting way of ending the album, it manages to summarise the Sisters' feel and charisma without repeating too much of the genres featured on the album. Rating: 8/10

Conclusion:
Whilst some listeners will be disappointed to see a step away from the electronica dance seen in favourites such as "Filthy/Gorgeous" or "Comfortably Numb", the Sisters' follow-up is one of those rarities - an album better than their first. Seeing them in concert with their passionate performances inbetween amusing ramblings about Barbara Streisand and London, one can't help but be sucked in by the very camp and fabulous liftestyle led by Anamatronic and co. I look forward to the third album, rumoured to be out before 2010. Rating: 8/10

Locke.

21-03-2009, 12:48 AM

The Dream - Love/Hate

http://i40.tinypic.com/9tk7dz.jpg

1. Shawty is da Sh*t (Ft. Fabolous) - 7.5/10
2. I Luv Your Girl - 9/10
3. Fast Car - 9.5/10
4. Nikki - 9/10
5. She Needs My Love - 10/10
6. Falsetto - 8/10
7. Playin' In Her Hair - 5/10
8. Purple Kisses - 10/10
9. Ditch That... - 1.5/10 (I could not listen to the full song. Just awful.)
10. Luv Songs - 8.5/10
11. Livin' A Lie (Ft. Rihanna) - 10/10
12. Mama - 10/10

The-Dream only came to my attention earlier tonight, I was searching for news on R. Kelly when an article popped up about The-Dream being influenced by Kelly, and saying that he was this generations R. Kelly. So I decided to check him out.

I think a few of the songs on the album are great, with 'She Needs My Love', 'Purple Kisses', and 'Livin A Lie' leading the pack, and 'Mama' being a great ending to his debut album. 'Ditch That...' was the only song that I found to be anything less than good. Going from this album, The-Dream is not as good as R. Kelly, especially not 90's Kelly, but with some improvement he could compare to the likes of Ne-Yo and Akon.

Overall, I'm going to give the album a 8/10, and I'll be listening to his second, and most recent, album tomorrow.

MarkWaldorf

21-03-2009, 01:13 AM

I thought the Mariah Carey duet would be on the album. :sad:

Locke.

21-03-2009, 01:20 AM

I think it's on his second album.

Locke.

21-03-2009, 11:15 PM

The-Dream - Love Vs. Money

http://i39.tinypic.com/wkkac6.jpg

1. Money Intro
2. Rockin' That Sh*t - 9/10
3. Walkin' On The Moon (Ft. Kanye West) - 10/10
4. My Love (Ft. Mariah Carey) - 9.5/10
5. Put It Down - 8/10
6. Sweat It Out - 9/10
7. Take U Home 2 My Mama - 8/10
8. Love Vs. Money - 8/10
9. Love Vs. Money Part II - 8/10
10. Fancy - 9.5/10
11. Right Side Of My Brain - 10/10
12. Mr. Yeah - 10/10
13. Kelly's 12 Play - 10/10
14. Let Me See The Booty (Ft. Lil' Jon) - 6/10
15. Hater - 8/10

A step-up from the first album. It was good to see Kanye appear, but I hate Lil' Jon, so I was not too pleased when I heard him on one of the tracks. Kelly's 12 Play is my favourite song on the album, it's about having sex whilst listening to one of R. Kelly's albums, but it worked, the lyrics are great and The-Dreams voice sounded great on it... it would have been nice to have R. appear on the track, though. Other than Kelly's 12 Play, I think the other songs that stand out on the album are: Walkin' On The Moon, Right Side Of My Brain, and Mr Yeah.

I think this album definitely puts The-Dream up there in the same league as the likes of Ne-Yo, Akon, and Bobby Valentino. And I'm going to give the album a 9/10.

Locke.

22-03-2009, 01:49 AM

R. Kelly - The R. in R&B, Greatest Hits Collection, Volume 1

http://i44.tinypic.com/30mtl6t.jpg

Disc 1

1. Bump & Grind - 10/10
2. Your Body's Callin' - 9/10
3. Sex Me (Part 1) - 10/10
4. Gotham City - 9.5/10
5. Ignition (Remix) - 10/10
6. Down Low (Nobody Has to Know) - 10/10
7. When a Woman's Fed Up - 10/10
8. Thoia Thoing - 8/10
9. Touched a Dream - 8.5/10
10. I Wish - 10/10
11. Ghetto Religion (Ft. Wyclef Jean) - 9.5/10
12. The Storm Is Over Now - 10/10
13. She's Got That Vibe - 10/10
14. If I Could Turn Back the Hands of Time - 10/10
15. The World's Greatest - 10/10
16. I'm Your Angel (Ft. Celine Dion) - 9/10
17. I Believe I Can Fly - 10/10
18. Home Alone (Ft. Keith Murray) - 7/10

Disc 2

1. Bump & Grind (Old School Mix) - 10/10
2. Down Low (Nobody Has To Know) (Live To Regret It Mix) - 10/10
3. Step In the Name of Love (Remix) - 9/10
4. Fiesta (Remix) (Ft. Jay-Z) - 8/10
5. Gotham City (Remix) - 7/10

There is only one problem I have with this album, and that is that it does not include Honey Love, Slow Dance, You Remind Me Of Something and If I Can't Sleep (Baby If I). Other than that, it is perfect. I think I actually prefer the remix to Bump & Grind, which appears on the second disk, to the original version. But yeah, best album I own, 10/10.

Shaun

25-03-2009, 03:09 AM

I'm intrigued to see what Princess will make of this :tongue:

http://www.virginmedia.com/images/take_that-circus-gal.jpg
Take That - The Circus

Me sister bought for Mothers' Day, I quickly ripped all the songs onto my laptop for reviewing purposes. Prior to that, I'd only heard "Greatest Day" and "Up All Night" from the album. I'm quite a fan of the reborn Take That, all grown up and melodical, especially compared to their insanely camp gyration and firm grip over the mid-90s. So I go into this open-minded, and optimistic.

Tracklist:
1. The Garden - As openings go, you can't ask for much more. Searching lyrics, epic string instrumentals, captivating drums and high falsetto vocals. "So this is the life we've been given" is cried by Barlow and chums, and one can't help but feel a sense of euphoria. Sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Rating: 9/10
2. Greatest Day - The first single from the album came at a time when I was unable to get my hands on new music, and when I finally managed to get this song, it had died in popularity. I failed to understand why friends and associates would cringe when I played it, mesmerised by the 'Rule The World'-esque delirium. And the world comes alive indeed. This is the song television shows are designed to use a soundtrack for. Rating: 9.5/10
3. Hello - Normally, I'm not such a fan of the Mark Owen-led songs. "Shine" still irritates me to this day, but I feel this an unfair assessment given that my hatred is primarily directed towards Morrison's and other media outlets for relentless overplay. Back to this song, it ticks all the Take That-fan boxes. Catchy chorus, simple lyrics. But not one to ponder over. Rating: 6.5/10
4. Said It All - I'll put it briefly. There just isn't anyone who can do a pop-ballad like Take That. Whilst I save my tears for other genres' own heartbreaks, Barlow shows off his matured and siren-like vocals again. A brilliant melody helps. Rating: 9/10
5. Julie - I can't help but feel like I've heard this somewhere before. Perhaps it's the (slightly generic, but effective nonetheless) chants of "sha-la-la". Perhaps it's reminiscent of many a Mark Owen solo effort. I don't know who Julie is or what she's doing, but I wish I did. Rating: 5.5/10
6. The Circus - The tune follows on from Julie, in my opinion, and I find it hard to distinguish the two (obvious shift of vocal-reins aside). I think this is the first glimpse of the 'circus' theme, more obvious on Britney Spears' album of the same release date (how odd indeed.) Unfortunately that's all I can say about this song. It's not particularly captivating. Rating: 5/10.
7. How Did It Come To This - What's this? That Barlow fellow is singing rather quickly. This isn't very Take That. But at least it sticks out. This shows promise of a light at the end of the tunnel of dreary ballads, which is welcome after 6 tracks I suppose. An interesting track, though I'm not sure if it'd stand well on its own as a single. Rating: 6.5/10
8. Up All Night - Radio-friendly upbeat Take That takes to the stage here, and you find yourself tapping your foot like a fool. Classic. Rating: 7.5/10
9. What Is Love - A ballad now without the feeling that you're soaring across the air. It oozes genuine emotion and the lyrics cut straight to the point with ease. What it lacks in gusto, it makes up for with emotion. Rating: 8/10
10. You - Uhh...sorry, Princess, but I'm falling asleep here. I suppose that's something - it makes a nice sedative. Rating: 3/10
11. Hold Up A Light - That's better, loud strings. I'm awake now. I immediately get the vibe that this is to be a single from the album. I don't know if it is, I imagine it's already been announced. *shrug* - Anyway. Fierce vocals, strings, and we're back at the heights of modern Take That again. It's a shame it follows such a dreary song. Is that an electric guitar I hear? From Take That? Controversial. Rating: 8.5/10
12. Here - The version I have is 8 minutes long. Hmm. It begins with an innocent, cheerful harmony. The chorus almost possesses a glam-rock quality seen in artists such as Alice Cooper and Evanescence, which, juxtaposed with the Alphabeat-style verses, makes odd, yet pleasant hearing. I assume after 'Here' there is a bonus track. I cba to find out the details of this...but as an altogether composition it's interesting to say the least. The second half has a strange Spanish swing vibe to it. Rating: 8.5/10

Conclusion:
Another album sure to please the fans, which continue to grow from strength to strength. However, I'd personally like to see some musical exploration - there are strange styles introduced, but only in the final album track(s). As far as TT albums go, though, this ticks every box and makes for easy listening. I'm sorry I'm being a bit lazy in my conclusion, but it's rather late and I'm tired. Album rating: 8/10

Locke.

25-03-2009, 05:41 PM

^^ There's a hidden track, She Said.

Novo

25-03-2009, 05:45 PM

I have that R kelly Album i found it in my room the other day yet i dont remember buying it

Shaun

29-03-2009, 08:28 PM

P!nk - Try This
http://shoppersfix.com/images/101a.jpg

Introduction:
Try This, before Fun House and...the other name eludes me. The one with "Stupid Girls" and "Dear Mr. President", is a pre-cursor to what these two albums have to offer. With real menace and rebellion, the album was often playing during my early teenage years. As a follow-up to "M!ssundaztood", it features less family pain and emotional trauma seen on old tracks such as "Family Portrait" (with lyrics such as "Daddy please stop yelling, I can't stand the sound. Make momma stop crying, 'cos I need you around."), yet there is still a hint of venom (If God Is A DJ offers 'mother, hey **** you' for example).

Tracks:
1. Trouble - One of the album's singles, Trouble is your typical "P!nk kicks ass and has a suitable music video to scream in" offering. Set in a Western bar, P!nk watches as the fights and chaos unravels, and she revels in the carnage. Go on, try to sit there unfazed. Rating: 8.0/10
2. If God Is A DJ - Perhaps modern pop music's longest ongoing metaphor in a song, this single proved popular with the fans and narrowly missed out on the Number #1 spot here in the UK. It's sometimes hard to believe that 'So What' was her first. A feeling of relaxed, laissez-faire lingers throughout and you know you'll dance along to this if you weren't alone in your room. Rating: 7.5/10
3. Last To Know - An interesting mix of industrial and acoustic guitars introduces this high-tempo lashing out at an ex. I personally had forgotten all about this song until playing it now, and it's quite possibly my favourite P!nk song of all time. Real passion and venom. Rating: 9.0/10
4. Tonight's The Night - No, not a Rod Stewart cover. The ongoing feel of a southern USA bar atmosphere is still present here, with a little element of ska reminiscent of No Doubt. The song's your run-of-the-mill defiant "feel-good" anthem P!nk has made her money from. Rating: 6.5/10
5. Oh My God - A tune very similar to "These Boots Are Made For Walking", this song's more than a little bit sexual. A breathy and seductive vocal is backed up by Peaches. I'm not sure if that's Geldof, or someone else...I vaguely recall a musician of the same name. Not so catchy, but it oozes sex. Rating: 6.5/10
6. Catch Me While I'm Sleeping - P!nk ponders over the ins and outs of falling in love here, and the music is suddenly a little more '80s'. Very Spandau Ballet if I do say so myself. Rating: 6.0/10
7. Waiting For Love - Another song about (probably her own) confusion about love. Not particularly outstanding, by anyone's standards. Rating: 4.5/10
8. Save My Life - This track offers a recognition that sleeping around and getting wasted isn't always the fun it's made out to be. A refreshing and uplifting instrumental helps to pull us away from the tedious confusion. Rating: 6.5/10
9. Try Too Hard - Ah yes, the obligitory "1, 2, 3, 4!" followed by heavy guitars. Some often forget that P!nk started out as an R&B girl, and with songs like this it's easy to understand why. A high-energy number that you can't help tapping your feet to. Rating: 7.5/10
10. Humble Neighbourhoods - With a guitar riff slightly similar to Bloc Party's "Flux", this song is anything but what the title suggests. A menacing and exhilarating track, just what the doctor ordered. Rating: 8.5/10
11. Walk Away - Swapping guitars for a church organ, P!nk complains here about men's inability to confront issues with love. A simple message and a very pop-friendly track. Rating: 7.0/10
12. Unwind - Oh dear, she's fallen off the wagon again. "I swallow down all my fears with a bottle made of silver." Whilst I don't commend the message it gives, I certainly like the bridge of "Somebody comfort me, S-Southern Comfort me." Rating: 7.5/10
13. Feel Good Time - Featuring William Orbit, this features on the Charlie's Angels soundtrack. A genuinely catchy and feel-good anthem, it has nostalgic benefit for anyone as a young teenager at the time, like me. Dance away. Rating: 9.0/10
14. Love Song - Ballad time, and it's the first of the album. Previous ballads have proved popular with the public, notable ones including Family Portrait and Don't Let Me Get Me. "I've never written a love song that didn't end in tears" eases us in to a heartfelt and powerful effort. Rating: 8.5/10
15. Hooker (Hidden Track) - Not mentioned on the CD's tracklisting, but coming up on my WMP, Hooker is a tongue-in-cheek, light-hearted attack. "You ain't nothing but a hooker - sell me your ****ing soul". That's our P!nk. Rating: 7.5/10

Overall:
Whilst Try This lacks one of P!nk's more outstanding and renowned singles such as "Just Like A Pill" or "So What", Try This offers a glimpse into the happy, care-free and uncaring P!nk. She doesn't hold back from partying, and we, as an audience, find this invitation welcoming. Though this approach to life is not to be recommended, one gets the impression that P!nk is a lot more content on this album. And it's easily her best album as a result. Overall rating: 7.5/10

Locke.

03-06-2009, 08:16 PM

http://i41.tinypic.com/5ex4sk.jpg

1. Intro - N/A
2. Kelly's 12 Play [Remix - Ft. The-Dream] - 10/10
3. Club to a Bedroom - 10/10
4. Disrespect My Shorty [Ft. Plies] - 9/10
5. F_ck Every Girl [Ft. Lil' Wayne] - 9.5/10
6. Best I Ever Had [Remix - Ft. Drake] - 9/10
7. Banging the Headboard - 10/10
8. P.U.S.S.Y Cry - 9.5/10
9. Love Lock Down [Ft. Kanye West] - 10/10
10. Supaman High - 8/10
11. Turning Me On [Remix- Ft. Keri Hilson] - 10/10
12. Turn My Swag On [Ft. Soulja Boy] - 10/10
13. Supa Dupa Man - 10/10
14. Tip the Waiter - 10/10
15. Birthday Sex - 10/10
16. Making Me Wanna [Ft. Akon] - 10/10
17. Move If You Want - 8/10
18. Chopped & Screwed [Remix] - 10/10

"It ain't no secret why, I'll be king till I die
12 Play deserves a grammy, as big as I Believe I Can Fly"

Best Song: Kelly's 12 Play or Supa Dupa Man.
Least Favourite Song: The Intro :tongue:
Overall Rating: 10/10

http://i42.tinypic.com/s4qikx.jpg

R. Kelly is back! :dance: Can't wait for the new album

Shaun

04-06-2009, 03:42 AM

http://cdon.fi/media-dynamic/images/product/00/04/18/89/89/3/88c5d24e-72a2-4527-88e6-d859e4c00e6d.jpg
The High End of Low - Marilyn Manson
Release: May 20, 2009
Run-Time: 72:12
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Introduction: Fans of Marilyn Manson were left a little disappointed by his last offering, "Eat Me, Drink Me". With a recent break-up with wife Dita von Teese, fans were probably expecting a soul-searching and emotional album. What was given was a few crowd-pleasers and very little experimentation.
But the most controversial God of Goth is back this year with new album, The High End of Low. Now in his 40s, Manson has enjoyed incredible success with albums 'Mechanical Animals', 'Antichrist Superstar' and 'Holy Wood', but how does this fare? Let's find out...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tracklisting:
1. Devour - The first thing you notice is the absence of the heavy instruments you'd come to expect from Manson, only to be replaced with gentler guitar chords. Lyrics reach into the realms of suicide and death-pacts, and they're delivered with typical swagger and emotion. Threatening lyrics build into a crescendo, and altogether it's a promising opening. Rating: 8/10.

2. Pretty As A Swastika - With the abrupt cut-off from Devour we're into the only censored track of the album (for retail purposes it's re-titled "Pretty As A ($)"). The familiar themes of death, sex and mutilation are briefly explored here, but ultimately it's more of a head-thrasher than forehead-scratcher. Rating: 6.5/10

3. Leave A Scar - With rumoured split up from his girlfriend Rachel Evan Wood (sp?), one gets a sense the lyrics are aimed towards her and his love-life here. "So turn around, walk away, before you confuse the way we abuse each other" and "are you aware I'm a danger to others?" almost seems to laugh off arguments (perhaps from the press over Manson's so-called influence over the perpetrators of the Columbine Shootings of 1999) of Manson's bad influence. Music-wise, it's not stand-out or memorable, which is a shame given the emotional exploration it's supposed to compliment. Rating: 6/10

4. Four Rusted Horses - Given my generally optimistic and cheerful nature, it's often amusing to see what I make of Manson lyrics. This is one of those situations. The carousel metaphor? The discussion of Heaven and Hell? One would immediately guess Manson's exploring the meaning of life but the cynic in me doesn't think that's what's intended. Shrugs all around. Rating: 4/10.

5. Arma-Goddamn-Mother****in'-Geddon - Manson, talking to Q and various other media outlets, has seemingly stated that this song is solely to piss off his record company, given its almost formulaic and systematic construction. It's catchy, it ticks a few boxes, but it doesn't have substance. Rating: 5.5/10.

6. Blank and White - Fingers up to society time, Manson bashes the lack of reason, moral and substance of the modern "Now!" era. Real venom and anger seeps through here, and it's a much more powerful song as a result. Rating: 7.5/10.

7. Running to the Edge of the World - My personal favourite of the album. Poetic lyrics, genuine emotion and a much more low-key instrumental, it's a welcoming wind-down. Rating: 9.5/10.

8. I Want To Kill You Like They Do In The Movies - Interesting use of media/cinema metaphors for attack, wrath and violence throughout, this 9 minute mammoth is packed with energy. I don't envy being the one to perform this on tour. I feel tired just listening. Rating: 9/10.

9. WOW - Sneering, arrogant, sleazy, vulgar. All possible ways of describing a song which repeats "it's hard to take you serious, when you take me inside". It's certainly catchy, though, and I don't doubt that he's worse than what I think I'd catch from him. Rating: 7.5/10.

10. Wight Spider - Slowly builds into something quite spectacular. A great crescendo. Rating: 8/10

11. Unkillable Monster - Listener-friendly? Manson? What? Some consider it ironic or sarcastic to go down that road, but as a self-confessed fan of radio, I'm not complaining. Different, and in a good way. Rating: 8/10.

12. We're From America - Bashing the old US of A isn't exactly the most revolutionary of song contexts, despite Manson's attempt to cover it with "America" being representative of how he feels. It sounds different from the rest of the album, perhaps making it out of place. But it's catchy. And I'm not wearing protection...heh. Sorry. Anyway, rating: 7.5/10.

13. I Have to Look Up Just to See Hell - Seemingly popular with the hardcore fans, the themes of women, lust and break-up are repeated here. I personally am not such a fan. Rating: 5.5/10.

14. Into the Fire - Strings and pianos in a Manson song is a very rare thing indeed, and both are frankly beautiful. A great ballad and a decent guitar solo. Rating: 8.5/10.

15. 15 - Described by Manson as the ending track to his life, 15 is a soul-searching and NIN-inspired perfect ending. Heralded as a 'return to form' by fans and critics alike, 15 finishes the album with grace and flair. Rating: 9/10.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Summary
Prior to this and EM,DM, I've not listened to a Manson album the whole way through. It's perhaps, therefore, unfair for me to compare the two without having heard critically acclaimed AS, MA or HW. But I don't need to be the most informed music critic in the world to understand a good album when I hear one, and this is that and more.

There is a slight tinge in that there's the sense that Manson himself doesn't know what he wants from the world, or his life any more. Some lyrics appear conflicting and confused.

However, genuine hurt, anger and pain filter through the confusion to pack an altogether exhilarating and energetic return to form.
Rating: 8/10.

Shaun

29-06-2009, 08:17 PM

I never gave this album a fair chance when it came out due to lack of...interest I guess. I was a HUGE fan of Confessions on a Dancefloor, and it remains to this day my most-played album.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/22/HardCandyAlbumCover.PNG/200px-HardCandyAlbumCover.PNG
Madonna - Hard Candy

Tracklisting:
Candy Shop
There's only so much sexual suggestion that Madonna can offer, in my opinion, and she's well past her sell-by date. The same age as my mother, really, it's a bit gross. Musically, this isn't a memorable or even good opening to an album, just...indecency.
Rating: 4/10.
4 Minutes (ft. Justin Timberlake & Timbaland)
One of my favourite singles of 2008, 4 Minutes is one of her catchiest. A great collaboration and it paid off for her, giving her another UK number one. I don't need to describe it, it was everywhere.
Rating: 8/10.
Give It 2 Me
My personal favourite from the album. A Timbaland-weaved beat that doesn't sound generic or repetitive, Give It 2 Me is a brash, in your face and commanding power-single.
Rating: 9/10.
Heartbeat
The theme of the album is candy, something whilst sweet to taste at first, eventually rots your teeth and makes you feel a bit sick. This is proof of that. The heavy synthesised beats and shrill vocals from Madonna, in something that wouldn't sound out-of-place on Nelly Furtado's "Loose" album, leave a more bitter than sweet taste.
Rating: 5/10.
Miles Away
Ballad time now, and the third single from the album is Madonna's poorest-charting single to date, not even breaking the UK Top 40. I find this a great shame, it's definitely worthy of a charting position, essentially when compared to the 75% of popular music nowadays which is totally forgettable. Given added poignancy following the split from husband Guy Ritchie, Miles Away is one of the better tracks here.
Rating: 7/10.
She's Not Mine
...sorry I drifted away. Yawn.
Rating: 3/10.
Incredible
Yeah I'm slowly losing my patience now. I can totally sympathise with the Madonna haters who continually yell "she's past it, give up".
Rating: 3/10.
Beat Goes On
For me, adding Kanye West to the mix is never something to be recommended. The man's an irritating, self-obsessed, arrogant piece of utterly mediocre shite and I wish he'd fall off the edge of the planet. Consider, then, if you will, how I feel towards this song. "On and on" it goes indeed, but why?
Rating: 0.5/10
Dance 2Night
One of the reasons COADF was so critically-acclaimed was for Madonna's versatility and ability to cross multiple genres on a single record. American Life, Bedtime Stories and Human Nature are all evidential of this, but whatever you call this genre, I certainly don't like.
Rating: 2/10.
Spanish Lesson
When executed correctly, latin music infiltrating the mainstream can be excellent (see Shakira, Enrique Iglesias). This, however, is not.
Rating: 1/10.
Devil Wouldn't Recognize You
Finally something that sounds a bit...oh I spoke too soon.
Rating: 2/10.
Voices
Final track now, praise the Lord, and Madonna saves some face here. Improved vocals and a distinguishable tune make this a better offering, and at least ends the album on a better note.
Rating: 5.5/10
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Summary
Often hailed as the constantly-regenerating Queen of Pop, Madonna has sampled a multitude of varying genres since her breakthrough. Country music was taken for a ride on "Don't Tell Me", electronica experimented with on "Music", dabbled with disco in "Hung Up" and even Hip Hop in "Express Yourself".
Unfortunately the dish of today's music is generic, over-edited and unoriginal R&B. Whilst she fits in with what the customer ordered, will people in 20 years look back on this as her 'defining era'? No they will not.
Overall rating: 4/10.

Harry!

29-06-2009, 08:24 PM

I liked Hard Candy, One of my fave Madonna albums ever. She's Not Me and Beat Goes On are some of my fave tracks on it!

Tom4784

01-07-2009, 04:20 PM

LA ROUX - Self titled Album (2009)

Before listening to the album I was of mixed opinion about La Roux, I liked In for the Kill originally but soon found it grating but I liked Bulletproof and Quicksand. The first thing I'd say about the album is that it isn't anywhere nearly as shrill as IFTK and I think it's better for it. Many of the songs are quite easy to listen to and are quite catchy. At first I thought the album was a bit samey but on repeated listens I've started to notice the nuances and differences in the songs and have enjoyed the album more for it.

One thing that surprised me about the album is that La Roux can really carry off a slower paced song as I find that most electro/dance artists struggle with slower paced songs. There's two slower paced songs (maybe more I forget) and my favourite of the two (and one of my favourites off the album) is 'Cover My Eyes'. I'd definately recomend people to check it out.

I think the tracks I'd reccomend are:

In For the Kill (I like it again now but I'm still glad the shrillness isn't present throughout the album)
Bulletproof (Still as catchy as ever)
Tigerlilly
Quicksand
Cover My Eyes
Reflections are Protection

The album as a whole is very easy to listen to though. I'd give it a:

8/10.

MrGaryy

09-08-2009, 11:54 PM

can this be stickied please?

Damaris

12-09-2009, 11:50 AM

I really should start doing these

Tom4784

17-11-2009, 01:23 PM

The Twilight Saga: New Moon Soundtrack

It's a weird album, It's not as instantly listenable as the Twilight soundtrack was but once you give it a fair try a few real gems begin to present themselves. Pretty much all the High profile acts steal the show really with the exception of (sadly) Muse who provides the only Muse song I've ever truly disliked which is 'I Belong to You'. The back of the case boasts that it is a 'New Moon Remix' but in reality all they've done is cut out the french verses and stuck one or two more guitar riffs in it. If they wanted a Muse track from the new album they should have gone with 'Undisclosed Desires' which is superior in every way to IBTY and is like the sequel to 'Supermassive Black Hole' which proves to be a popular track on the Twilight soundtrack.

The main theme song 'Meet me on the Equinox' by Death Cab is pretty dull and unmemorable and sadly Paramore's 'Decode' truly thrashes it. The contributions by Lykke Li and Thom Yorke are two high points of the album if slightly overlong. The best track on the album for me though is 'Roslyn' which is a rather haunting duet between Bon Iver and St Vincent. The Killers provide a likable track in 'A White Demon's love song' but in comparision to the other well known contributors it kind of fades into the background.

The second half of the album consists of mainly American indie bands which provide to be both listenable and likable if slightly forgettable. However The Editors provide the best part of the second half with a rather emotive 'No Sound but the Wind'.

The album's instrumental track is decent but pales in comparision to 'Bella's Lullaby' of the Twilight Soundtrack. The closing song of the album is the rather likable 'Thunderclap' by someone named Eskimo Joe, I really liked this track and it's definately the best song from the indie bands.

I think the producers really missed a trick by not having Robert Pattinson contribute to the soundtrack like he did with the Twilight Soundtrack as I found his' Let Me Sign' in particular to be a standout. However the bigger names of this album more often then not more then fill the gap.

Ironically, If you're the sort of person to put your nose up at the Twilight franchise or think that the big names sold out with this soundtrack then you'll mostl likely really like this album. If you're a more stereotypical fan of the franchise then enter with caution. Film soundtracks have been in since the Juno soundtrack and this one doesn't dissapoint, if you're a fan of indie music or snobbish in any way then you'll enjoy this album very much.

The only really bad thing about this album is that it's truly a grower and I've had since it came out a few weeks back and I only really started liking it today. Give it a fair try though and you'll love it too.

Reccomended Songs
Hearing Damage - Thom Yorke
Possibility - Lykke li
Roslyn - Bon Iver & St Vincent
No Sound but the Wind - The Editors
Thunderclap - Eskimo Joe

Final Score: 8/10

MeMyselfAndI

17-11-2009, 05:56 PM

My Opinion of Leonas Album
1. “Happy” 10/10
2. “I Got You” 10/10
3. “Can’t Breathe” 9.5/10
4. “Brave” 9.5/10
5. “Outta My Head” 10/10
6. “My Hands” 9.25/10
7. “Love Letter” 9/10
8. “Broken” 9.25/10
9. “Naked” 9/10
10. “Stop Crying Your Heart Out” 9.25/10
11. “Don’t Let Me Down” 9.25/10
12. “Alive” 9.50/10
13. “Lost Then Found” Featuring OneRepublic 8.5/10

All songs are great

Shaun

17-11-2009, 05:57 PM

*screams*

THAT'S NOT A ****ING REVIEW.

xDramatick

17-11-2009, 06:00 PM

All songs are Amazing, i could listen to them all alot, "Lost then found" is not the best but still great, their voices don't mix well, however its the best album of all time; It has so many Amazing songs; "Outta my head" "Happy" "I got you" "Can't breathe" "Brave" "Alive" Well all of the songs are addicitive and its an amazing Album.

OMFG you're Leona?!

Tom4784

18-11-2009, 04:03 PM

Leona Lewis - Echo

My opinion changes regurlarly with Leona Lewis, I remember really liking her debut album when it first came out and then I remember hating her. I think this album is better then her first but there's still a lot of problems here.

There's still an overabundance of ballads here which gives the album a repetitive feel, some of the ballads are quite good though. 'My Hands is probably my favourite out the rest, It's got a very good catchy chorus which will stick in your head. Another of my favourites was the single 'Happy', I despised it when I first heard it when it debuted but it's like an extremely slow grower because when I listened to the album I enjoyed it a lot more then I did before. It's still a bad choice of single though since there are more catchier ballads on the album.

Surprisingly there are up tempo songs on the album, the main one being 'Outta My Head' which is rather dance-y and is kinda like a more innocent Rihanna track. It's got number 1 written all over it. The other more uptempo track is 'I Got you' which technically only really picks up the pace in the chorus but still It's quite catchy and I can see it being a successful top ten single.

The traditional cover song on this album is 'Stop Crying Your Heart Out' by Oasis. This is very much Run 2.0 down to the key change and the gospel choir to the understated beginning. For that reason I couldn't really like it since it's such an uncreative cover, As far as Leona Covers go 'First Time Ever I Saw Your Face' is still her best.

What's evident with this album is with the exception of a few differences it's pretty much a template of her first album. The main differences being this time are the few up tempo tracks and the fact that it's not so R'n'B based. There IS some growth here but for the next album I'd like Leona to try some more things and experiment with more up tempo tracks and genres.

As far as a pop album goes it's not bad. It's inoffensive and easy to listen to and it's quite catchy. It's not an album I can see myself listening to for long though as the repetitiveness does drag on it. Ultimately it's poppy, shallow and unlikely to change the landscape of music but as far as some pop music goes it ain't bad.

Reccomended Songs
Happy
I Got You
Outta My Head
My Hands

Final Score: 7/10

Ross

18-11-2009, 10:26 PM

Lady GaGa - The Fame Monster

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/35/TheFameMonsterStandard.jpg

Okay some may argue this isn't an album but whatever, I'm commenting on it anyway.

This definately beats The Fame era for me, I much prefer her sound with this album/EP whatever.

1. Bad Romance -The first single to be taken from the album and what a good choice. Upbeat and very catchy. When I first heard it I thought she was singing utter cack, like what was she singing about? The more and more I listen to it, it's definately on it's way to becoming my favourite Gaga song? I think the video is well to put it simply, fabulous. The "Gaga ooh la la" I cannot get out of my head at all, I find myself mumbling to it on the bus. Good times. 10/10

2. Alejandro - I did not get the hype surrounding this song when it was released as a promotion single. Now that I've had the chance to listen to the whole song through manier times. I can safely say that I love it. I love how it starts so soft and then picks up about 30 seconds in. It really shows of Gaga's voice and works in her favour. Also the way she says Alejandro is hot! 8/10

3. Monster - My favourite song! I don't know what to say really except I feel it has everything that I would want to listen to in a song. A catchy chorus, an amazing beat and I love the title. I really do wish I could write alot more about this song as it is my favourite but it is just WOW. Also, can anyone clear up does she say "now get your paws off of me" or does she say "balls". Haha. 10/10

4. Speechless - She needs more songs like this. I love her up-tempo songs, don't get me wrong but songs like Speechless really do show off her voice and what a talent she is. I can imagine this being amazing live with a fantastic set!
It's just nice to sit down with a cup of coffee and relax listening to it. 9/10

5. Dance In The Dark - D-d-d-d-d. Not my favourite but definately a grower, when I first heard it I was like "what. terrible, ew." now I just think it's a filler for the album, a good one may I add. I could see this doing well as a single but I'm happy it isn't being released if that makes sense? 7/10

6. Telephone (featuring Beyoncé) - Wow. This song is genius. Has everything you could want and more! I think it helps that Beyoncé is in the song as when her verse comes in she totally owns it. I'm glad this is the second single... (well I hope it is) it will be a worldwide success as it has the top two females of the past 12 months. Hats off to you Beyoncé and erm Geeyoncé? 10/10

7. So Happy I Could Die - The most catchiest song of them all I think. The "ey, ey, aha, aha" gets stuck in my head alot. It won't go. This was the one I was most excited to listen to when all the track names were revealed. It definately lived up to expectations. The chorus totally makes the song I think and the lyrics throughout the song make sense. I could sit and have this on repeat all day. 10/10

8. Teeth - What a mess. This is horrible. It actually beats my previous Gaga-hate of "Paper Gangsta". What was she thinking? Don't like this sound at all. It's like country/rnb/pop mixed into one. It sounds like a good Jessica Simpson, so it's still bad. Awful. Always skip this one. With a name like Teeth aswell, I am disappointed. 1/10

Arneldo

18-11-2009, 10:45 PM

Jamie Cullum - The Pursuit

http://i50.tinypic.com/2zpnw5e.jpg

I was a big fan of TwentySomthing, but hadn't heard but of his stuff since then so after I heard some recording of a gig he did here in Dublin a few weeks ago I went and downloaded his new album - The Pursuit. I've just done a pretty general review - and then ranked each of the tracks.

The album opens with a big jazz number ("Just One Of Those Things") and pretty much sets you up for the next 54 minutes. It is a cover, like a lot of the songs on the album, but I would never had known had I not looked up. It has, like a lot of his songs, a very "rat pack" feel to it. But, if that's not your thing - Jamie also has a few jazz/pop songs ("I'm All Over It") and this new album includes a cover of Rihanna's "Don't Stop The Music" - a cover which I think is far better than Rihanna's overplayed original. His version is already creeping it's way into my iTunes top 25.

Two other songs which stood out to me immediately were "If I Ruled The World", a slow pop jazz ballad, and "Mixtape", a uptempo song. I think "Mixtape" is the perfect single for this album - but it isn't the single, sadly. The debut single from this album is the only slightly less amazing "I'm All Over It".

If I had to chose one song to sum up this album it would be "Not While I'm Around", a song taken from Sweeny Todd. It's a slow catchy jazz ballad. It was, despite being the penultimate track on the album,t he first song I listened too and it made me want more+more+more.

For me, Jamie Cullum is like a short Michael Bublé at a piano. He can over do the solos at times, and it can get a tad "samesy" - but he never fails. Great, great album - if your into that sort of thing. I know so many people would hear this and hate it - but it's worth a try.

"Just One of Those Things" - 7/10
"I'm All Over It" - 8/10
"Wheels" - 7/10
"If I Ruled the World" - 7/10
"You and Me Are Gone" - 7/10
"Don't Stop the Music" - 9/10
"Love Ain't Gonna Let You Down" - 8/10
"Mixtape" - 10/10
"I Think I Love You" - 8/10
"We Run Things" - 8/10
"Not While I'm Around" - 10/10
"Music Is Through" - 7/10

Arneldo

19-11-2009, 05:59 PM

Love this thread. Just read through a lot of the reviews. Gonna do some more later/tomorrow/weekend.

Shaun

19-11-2009, 07:34 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/e/ea/Rihanna_Rated_R.jpg
Rihanna - Rated R

It's been a difficult year or so for Rihanna. Following from the phenomenal success of her album "Good Girl Gone Bad", one would have expected the celebrations and comedown to have been carefree and well-deserved. However, as you know, the star's turbulent split with boyfriend Chris Brown, and the domestic abuse that came with, dealt a massive blow to the star and shocked audiences around the world.
It is with this news that attention turned to her upcoming fourth release, now named Rated R. Were there to be songs aimed at Mr. Brown? Fans expected a darker, more sinister record and with the previews and releases of photoshoots and the first single, "Russian Roulette", these suspicions were not quashed. But what to make of the album?

Tracklisting:
1. Mad House - gothic organs and a public service announcement from a Thriller-style dark voice, 'welcome to the madhouse' gives the listener a clear indication of what to expect. Has she gone mad, is she angry, is she vengeful? Produced by Chase and Status, it has a fairground-ride feel, but as only an introduction it's not the main attraction. Rating: 5/10
2. Wait Your Turn
For the first time in Rihanna's discography, she uses explicit lyrics here: "I'm such a ****ing lady, you don't have to be so afraid". Labelled as her return to the music scene as a strong, independent woman, it certainly sounds like a return to form. The sound is dark, strong and unrelenting. Rating: 6/10
3. Hard (featuring Young Jeezy)
I know little of Master Jeezy. Anyway. Any expectation of Rihanna to return as a fragile, or even broken, woman is thrown out of the window with her determination and stubbornness at being "so hard" and she proudly sings "my runway's never looked so clear, the best bitch in heels right here". One of the catchiest of the album, it'll be the second single. Rating: 7.5/10
4. Stupid In Love
Written by Ne-Yo, this ballad temporarily dispels the confident, impenetrable exterior of Rihanna's new hard-girl facade, and seems to address her past experiences. "They telling me let go, he wasn't the one. I guess I saw your potential, that's what made me dumb" seems to be a attack on Brown, but its rawness is somewhat spoiled by some odd choices of lyrics, such as "trying to make this work, but you act like a jerk". Rating: 5.5/10
5. Rockstar 101 (featuring Slash)
Okay. Getting the Guns N Roses legend on your track is always going to go down well with me. Again proclaiming her swagger (I've got my middle finger up, I don't really give a ****) - she goes on to an anthemic declaration of "I'm a rockstar" and this combination of genres goes down well. Rating: 7/10
6. Russian Roulette
As far as pop goes, it doesn't come more atmospheric or dark than this. As the first glimpse into her new era, this offered sinister, raw and soul-searching lyrics set to a dark backdrop. With the obvious theme of Russian Roulette, and the spinning barrel/gunshot sounds, this goes down as my favourite track of hers. Ever. And the music video is pretty epic too. Rating: 9/10
7. Fire Bomb
With a strong guitar and even some strings present, this is a different approach from the R&B girl. As a slowly-building power ballad, Rihanna sings "the lovers need to clear the road" and "where I'm going, I don't need my brakes". One of the catchiest and stand-out tracks on the album. Rating: 7.5/10
8. Rude Boy
Fans of her typical R&B sound will be pleased by this track, returning to a similar, bouncy feel that made her name. But as a critic of this style of music, and not a particular fan of her earlier material, it goes down not so well with me. Rating: 5/10
9. Photographs (featuring Will.I.Am)
A simple track, Rihanna laments over a love lost through the use of photographs. It has an electronic, easy sound that the Black Eyed Peas have revelled in lately, and whilst their album The E.N.D. goes down, for me, as one of the biggest piles of shite I've ever heard - they do have the tendency to produce some great songs (see I Gotta Feeling, Meet Me Halfway) - and that's luckily emulated here. Rating: 7/10
10. G4L
With opening lyrics of "I lick the gun when I'm done 'cos I know that revenge is sweet", this quickly turns into a slick, dirty and empowered song about gangster violence. With a strong synthesised beat over an eerie background, it's one of the better tracks here. Rating: 7.5/10
11. Te Amo
It has a latin sound to match its Spanish title, with jungle-style drums and clapping/castanets and even a Spanish guitar. But as far as the track goes, it doesn't build into anything special, it's a generic offering I'm afraid. Rating: 4/10
12. Cold Case Love
This is the track described by many as the song about Chris Brown. Produced and written by a certain Justin Timberlake and at 6 minutes long, it stands out from the rest on statistics alone. It starts with slow piano, strings and an organ chord, but eventually builds into something. Something...not spectacular. It sounds like a Future Sex / Love Sounds track, which I guess is a good thing. But it could be better. Rating: 7/10
13. The Last Song
Borrowing a riff from the great 'Purple Rain', The Last Song is what it says on the tin. However, there's an arguable lack of closure in the artist's intentions and wants. Whilst the emotions are unclear, as an ending to the record it's ideal. Confident vocals, impressive guitar solos and strings. Rating: 7/10

Conclusion:
It's a difficult album to assess for a number of reasons. Firstly, there's no real single material - on Good Girl Gone Bad every song suited the radio for their (albeit mindless) catchiness, but with Rated R it's more of an altogether piece.
Secondly, the year's been a difficult one for Rihanna - but to come through all of that and produce a record like this is no easy feat. There are various genres sampled, numerous star guests lending something different to her sound, and genuine raw emotion mixed with a darker edge make this a stand-out in her discography and one of, if not THE best, records she's made.
Overall rating: 7/10

CaraRawr

19-11-2009, 07:44 PM

All Time Low
Nothing Personal

http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk218/09kpesson/album1.jpg

1. "Weightless"
2. "Break Your Little Heart"
3. "Damned If I Do Ya (Damned If I Don't)"
4. "Lost in Stereo"
5. "Stella"
6. "Sick Little Games"
7. "Hello, Brooklyn"
8. "Walls"
9. "Too Much"
10. "Keep the Change, You Filthy Animal"
11. "A Party Song (The Walk of Shame)"
12. "Therapy"

--

The latest album from my favourite band is definately ATL at their greatest. Although the most highly recognised songs from the album Weightless and DIIDYDIID are great, the lesser known tracks Stella, Walls and Therapy shine through for me. All though a few songs aren't as great as some of ATL's previous ones, NP is my favourite album of theirs so far. 9.5/10

Arneldo

28-02-2010, 12:47 PM

http://i45.tinypic.com/655ua0.jpg

Bumping this topic to review Ellie Goulding's debut album, Lights.

I got the album yesterday and spent a lot of yesterday and this morning listening to it. The album is made up of 10 Ellie-tunes, including, of course, the tuneful "Starry Eyed" and "Under The Sheets".

The album opens with the pleasant tune of "Guns & Horses". It's actually my favorite song on the album. A laid-back-electro-pop-ballad (if there is such thing). "Guns & Horses" sets the tone for the up-coming 36 minutes of Ellie. A sweet song, with everything going for it. It is, unsurprisingly, going to be Ellie's 3rd single from the album, and hope it can become her first number 1.

The album continues with "This Love (Will Be Your Downfall)" and "The Writer". The former reminds me very much of a Frankmusik tune - which goes down very well with me. "The Writer" is a stand-out song on the album. Every time I hear it, I do get lost in it slightly. I can't help but listen to the words she is singing beautifully - "Why don't you be the artist and make me out of clay?
Why don't you be the writer and decide the words I say?".

Sadly, the next two tracks - to me - seem like the typical album fillers. "Every Time You Go" and "Wish I Stayed" aren't my favorites at all. Although, compared to some of the rubbish in the charts atm, they are still good.

Ellie ends the album on a high with three kicking tracks, and the album closes with "Salt Skin". A song which reminds me very much of Bjork, and a song which I'm sure many DJ's cannot wait to get their teeth into.

Overall I'd say Ellie's album is pretty samey, and if you are a fan of "Starry Eyed"/"Under The Sheets", then Lights will not disappoint.

Best Song: Guns & Horses
Worst Song: Every Time You Go
Overall Score: 9/10

MarkWaldorf

28-02-2010, 12:56 PM

*screams*

THAT'S NOT A ****ING REVIEW.

rofl

Shaun

28-02-2010, 12:59 PM

I missed this thread. Cool review, Aaron :) I like the album...wouldn't give it 9 (I think 7) but still!

Tom4784

28-02-2010, 01:52 PM

Marina and the Diamonds - Family Jewels

The Family Jewels is a rare album where I don't really hate any of the songs, each song on the album is quite distinctive as well. The songs are rather bipolar in the way, in 'Are You Satisfied?' she regurlarly flicks between happy and extroverted and sad and introverted all while to a rather happy instrumental and it works really well.

'Shampain' is one of the weaker tracks, It's not bad it's catchy but it doesn't compare to the highlights of the album and it always tends to get lost among the heavy hitters. 'I Am Not A Robot' was the first single if I recall and I still adore it months after it's release. It showcases the more serene side to Marina and the high vocal style works wonders. It was the song that made me pay attention to her and it still works wonderfully.

'Girls' is a catchy uptempo number and it's quite catchy, the chorus is well written and echoes Lady Gaga and Girls Aloud in the way of using repetition and sounds to create a great hook. 'Mowgli's Road' is my personal favourite of the album, it's a bizarre song that's difficult to explain but easy to love. It's catchy, wonderfully peculiar and brilliant. My second favourite song follows on, 'obsessions' is a slow paced song about Marina having an emotional breakdown in a supermarket while shopping for Crackers. It stands out from the other song because there's no soaring instrumentals or catchy-as-hell choruses, it's just a quite low key and well written song.

'Hollywood' is the lead single from the album and it is wonderfully catchy and likable but rather shallow in comparision to other songs on the album. 'The Outsider' is another standout, like 'Girls' it's choruses use a lot of reptition to create a brilliant hook that will keep you listening. 'Hermit The Frog' is a divisive song, Most people seem to hate it but I quite love it. Like 'Mowgli's Road' it's a song filled with bizarre imagery that would be ridiculous if done by a lesser artist but Marina (as shown with Mowgli's Road) has a knack for peculiar lyrics and imagery and makes the song work.

I didn't like 'Oh No!' at first but it grew quickly on me, it's quite an introverted song done in an extroverted way, it's catchy as hell and brilliant. Like with the opener she manages to mix dark moments with the happy instrumental well. The album finishes with 3 low tempo songs ('Rootless', 'Numb' and 'Guilty'). This songs are good (I especially like Guilty) but their placement lessens the impact really, they should have been scattered throughout the album instead of being placed together at the end. When you judge them by their own merits though, they manage to shine.

Overall it's a brilliant album which is quite varied, which is only really let down by some bad ordering of the songs but that's being nitpicky really. Marina's an interesting artist that carries off many opposites extremely well. As said at the beginning, there's not a bad song on here and it's varied enough for most people to find a few songs they like

Best Songs: Mowgli's Road, Obsessions, I Am Not A Robot, The Outsider, Oh No!, Guilty.

8/10

Jords

28-02-2010, 01:56 PM

Ahhhhh I cant wait to get Ellie Goulding's album!!! :D

Shaun

04-03-2010, 11:55 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/d1/Plasticbeach452.jpg
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Gorillaz - Plastic Breach
Length 56:46
Label Parlophone / Virgin
Producer Damon Albarn, Gorillaz
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Introduction: The Gorillaz have long been able to get away with what others have not. To children they appear mysterious - they can't really be cartoon characters can they? And yet, to adults they still take a lot of explaining. The only permanent figures are Damon Albarn and a comic-designer by the name of Jamie Hewlett. However this leaves the door wide open for collaboration - and whilst names trickled with their debut - the success flowed and so did those phonecalls.
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Track 01; Orchestral Intro; As far as the Gorillaz go, this is not their sound at all. Damon Albarn has clearly taken something from his work with the Chinese monkey opera, and a sense of grandeur kicks things off here.
Track 02; Welcome to the World of the Plastic Beach; the first words we hear on the album come from the instantly recognisable Snoop Dogg. The orchestry descends quickly into a electronic drum synth and a sign of the album's sound is immediately obvious. A lot of production and effort has been put into capitalising off the current electronic revival scene, and giving it a poppier and grander sound. Snoop Dogg effortlessly does his thing overleaf and sounds almost Faithless in his delivery. 7/10
Track 03; White Flag; Only the Gorillaz could have the vision to take a Lebanese symphony of Oriental and Arabic music and then shove rappers Bashy and Kano on top of it. In planning for the album, Albarn reportedly visited Mali and you can definitely hear some kind of influence from his journeys here. 7/10
Track 04; Rhinestone Eyes; The album's defining theme seems to be an embrace of ecology and not to be so wasteful - indeed 'Plastic Beach' is the name of the fictional retreat where the 'band' have gone to: an island made of the world's garbage. Synths and Albarn's typical laid-back wistful vocals give this a familiar Gorillaz sound, but on holiday. 6/10
Track 05; Stylo; This is one of the best singles I have heard in a very long time. It immediately strikes as very minimalist and bizarre - the absence of a chorus makes it unfriendly to the radio, and its collaboration this time around is the bizarrest yet. Mos Def coolly clicks into place, used sparingly and almost unnoticeably in contrast to the other guest - one who makes this what it is - Bobby Womack. Womack's vocals soar over this extremely cool synth. And my god, the video is just another layer of surprises. This is all of your Christmases at once. 9.5/10
Track 06; Superfast Jellyfish; This sees a return from Gorillaz stalwarts, De La Soul, responsible for their work on previous hit 'Feel Good Inc.' There's an immediate childish pop-sound with a cheesy advert cameo glossing over the ugliness and wanton-carelessness of Western commercialism - it's the plastic of the cereal's toys that's helped to build Plastic Beach. 'Superfast' seems to criticise fast food, but never appears menacing or world-weary in doing so; its cute chorus (helped by Gruff Rhys of psychedelic botherers Super Furry Animals) makes sure of that. 8.0/10
Track 07; Empire Ants; This track takes a while to truly kick off but once it does it's one of the most intense album experiences. Featuring 'Little Dragon', a Swedish electronic band, it's initally the epitome of dream-pop; enough to make Goldfrapp go weak at the knees. Two and a bit minutes in this immediately fades and an electronic sound I can only describe as an audial swarm of bees hits you. Would probably make for a bad acid trip. 7.5/10
Track 08; Glitter Freeze; Almost certainly my favourite album track - this features another unlikely contribution in the form of former Fall frontman Mark E. Smith. Delivering 'where's north from here?' in his typical croak, the track is suddenly thrust into a synthesised riff that would make Timbaland **** himself. Occasionally dipping for Smith to sinisterly croon his lyrics (and occasionally laugh manically), Glitter Freeze is an exhilarating experience. 9.5/10
Track 09; Some Kind of Nature; I was rather looking to a Lou Reed/Gorillaz collaboration - his recent track with the Killers, 'Tranquilize', was fantastic and he's a musical icon. Reed sings of a natural and beautiful quality to the man-made atrocity that is Plastic Beach over a wonky piano tune but I feel his voice isn't quite compatible with their sound this time around. 6.5/10
Track 10; On Melancholy Hill; No star faces this time, but the tune to this more than makes up for the celebrity factor. Almost lullaby in its optimism, it's as if the writers of Juno were seeking the perfect 'teenager jerks off over thoughts of school children' soundtrack. But somehow it's cute. I'll be honest I've no idea where that analogy came from. 8.0/10
Track 11; Broken; It's almost a repetition for emphasis kind of affair here, in that it sounds like a downcast version of On Melancholy Hill. Decent but nothing different. 6.0/10
Track 12; Sweepstakes; Mos Def returns with a rather lovely sounding group called the 'Hypnotic Brass Ensemble'. Distinctly more urban-sounding than the other tracks of the album, Sweepstakes is full of attitude and then descends into brass revelry that would make Mark Ronson jealous. 8.5/10
Track 13; Plastic Beach; I've noticed a tendency with titular tracks to be rather rubbish in music. Well abandon that thought. Is that a guitar I hear? Whoa. In what has to be one of the greatest coups in years - the Gorillaz have reunited Mick Jones and Paul Simonon of the Clash fame for the first time since the legendary band split. Together they've made a heavenly track with a sound somewhere between Joy Division and Daft Punk. 9.0/10
Track 14; To Binge; Little Dragon return and with them their cute electronic sound reappears. There's a distinct rock-and-roll ballad sound to this, perhaps unintentionally being the 'last dance' song of this album's ball. 7.0/10
Track 15; Cloud of Unknowing; The ever-present seaside noises (crashing waves, seagulls) are much more noticeable now - perhaps they were lost in a tide of 80s nostalgia. Bobby Womack's serenade here and the tense music gives this a Arcade Fire sound - majestic and atmospheric. 7.5/10
Track 16; Pirate Jet; I could swear I've heard this before. It's so 'Demon Days' that it almost says 'We have been Gorillaz, thank you and good night'. Rumours of their future have been in question for a long time - with some whispers of it being their last. Should this be, I think they could've done a hell of a lot worse with a curtain call. 8.5/10.
----------------------------------------------------
Conclusion: It's an incredible showcase of talents, genres and pop. Every collaboration bar Lou Reed's works, and their capitalisation on the current electronic revival has been right on the money. There is one criticism for me and that is the meaning of the record - I admire the message and the reasoning behind it - but I feel it's almost too vague and narrow to base a record around. Some will counter-argue that writing a song about it would appear fascile and pretentious, though, and if they've managed to deliver said meaning with as much finesse and great tunes as they have, who can argue with that?
Overall rating: 125/160 = 7.8

Stu

05-03-2010, 12:28 AM

You do good reviews. I'll have to do a few.

Jessica.

05-03-2010, 12:32 AM

I will review 3/4 albums tomorrow :D
(If I remember)

Shaun

05-03-2010, 05:04 PM

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mupIVJbjvuU/S2sgE-X_FFI/AAAAAAAABvo/En5ahRq-3F8/s200/Ellie+Goulding+-+Lights+%28Official+Album+Cover%29+Thanx+to+Fabriz zio.jpg
Ellie Goulding - Lights

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She's the latest in a string of 'ones to watch', so they say. Still a nobody, she's already won a Brit Award and BBC's Sound of 2010 shortlist. But is the proof in the pudding? Immediate impressions indicate that Goulding's another in a very long string of modern songstresses with a strong foot in the electronic door. Whether or not she'll then survive the tricky challenge of sticking out in a crowd all falls upon her debut album.

-----------------------------------------------------------

1. Guns And Horses - From the get-go, the sound is a mixture of acoustic guitars and light drum beats. Small chimes and synths help to reaffirm this minimalist sound, and Goulding's vocals are given centre stage - sounding somewhere inbetween Diana Vickers and Cerys Matthews. This track is pretty but lacks substance. 5.0/10 - Sounds like: I've already forgotten.
2. Starry-Eyed - I'm unsure as to whether this is her first or second single, but I digress. A much more catchy and radio-friendly affair, live performances of this that I've seen (notably on the Alan Carr show) indicate it's just as good live - it's a cute and twinkly take on disco. 7.5/10 - Sounds like: Little Boots not failing.
3. This Love (Will Be Your Downfall) - For some reason upon first lesson I found myself trying to translate its lyrics into German. The lyrics are more bountiful this time but aren't exactly revolutionary - but the drawn-out chorus and steady rhythm make this one of the better tracks. 6.0/10 - Sounds like: Skins' writers needed a new song in their credits.
4. Under The Sheets - Totally at odds with the rest of the album, Under the Sheets is sexy, brash and confrontational. Strange lyricism and heavy electronics give this an alluring atmosphere and added to its effortless catchiness it's undeniably her best. 8.5/10 - Sounds like: A girl losing her virginity...but not to a drunk man with erectile disfunction.
5. The Writer - Pretty pianos and dream-like synths provide a pleasant backdrop for Goulding's first ballad of the album. Cute metaphors and the best vocal performance so far make this stick out. 7.5/10 - Sounds like: Natasha Beddingfield's 'Unwritten' without the irritability and with added balls.
6. Every Time You Go - A steady rhythm allows for perhaps one of the simplest songs - but the fact of the matter is there's little to write about. The lyrics sound forced, and the tune is nice but not something you'll be whistling an hour later. 5.5/10
7. Wish I Stayed - The only track solely written by Goulding, it's difficult at times to hear what she's singing. It sounds interesting, but could do with a bit of reduction as she's being drowned out by ill-placed synths. 6.0/10
8. Your Biggest Mistake - Demonstrating one of her talents - guitar - Your Biggest Mistake is a completely different sound from the rest of the album. It has a mellow-Alphabeat vibe to it, that is to say effortless catchiness but without the risk of diabetes. 6.5/10
9. I'll Hold My Breath - Following on from where YBM succeeds - a laidback and less electronic sound makes this a welcome release. Cute lyricry and vocals should make this stand out - but it's a fairly forgettable track. 6.0/10
10. Salt Skin - Distinctly more 'La Roux' sounding in its approach, Salt Skin is an interesting closer. Sultry vocals lament an experience of the senses and, in an almost emotion-by-numbers way, it's a fairly hypnotic affair. 6.5/10

-----------------------------------------------------------

So what to make of the latest prodigy? It's fair to say that she succeeds where Little Boots failed - in consistency. A steady process of strong and assured electronic-pop make this perfectly manufactured for the current scene, but it's a scene that's increasingly wearing thin now. There're no signs of radical or experimental attempts, and whilst that would be a risk for any debutant, the greater risk now is of her fading into the giant waterwork print that is modern music. Rating: 65/100 = 6.5

Shaun

06-03-2010, 01:03 AM

Not sure what to review next.

Firewire

06-03-2010, 01:27 AM

Sugababes 'Sweet 7'

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/4f/Sugababes_sweet_7.jpg

Released: 15 March (UK)

1. Get Sexy: I loved this song when it debuted back in August, but then there was the split. I heard Jade's version and I thought 'Wow!'. It's in my opinion, better than Keisha's. However, not the best track on the album. My 6th favourite song on the album. 8/10

2. Wear My Kiss: I absolutley adore this song. I fell in love when it premiered. Great that it went to #7 on the UK Singles Chart. Great tune, great lyrics, great video. My fifth favourite song on the album. 9/10

3. About A Girl: I fell in love with this when it premiered on the radio back in November, before Keisha's ousting. I loved it and couldn't wait for it to be released. Then there was the ousting. I still loved the song. When I heard Jade's I loved it even more. It has over 120 plays on my iTunes. Bloody fantastic. RedOne classic. Also, my fourth favourite track on the album. 9.5/10

4. Wait for You: When the album leaked, this was my favourite. I love the beginning, and I hope it's released as a single. Amelle sounds great at the beginning. My third favourite on the album. 10/10

5. Thank You for the Heartbreak: This song is alright. Not the best song on the album, but not the worst. It's got a good tune and is catchy. My 4th least favourite song on the album. 8/10

6. Miss Everything (feat. Sean Kingston): This is my favourite song on the album. I love Jade's verses and the chorus. It's an epic song and I hope it is released as a single. 10/10

7. She's a Mess: A song that will be blasting the clubs, brilliant to get up and dance to. I hope it's released as a single. It's my second favourite song on the album, as it's fantasic. 'London let's go! 10/10

8. Give It To Me Now: In my opinion, this is the worst song on the album. Hopefully as I listen more and more, it'll grow on me. But for the moment I'll give it 7/10.

9. Crash & Burn: This is a brilliant track, a slow song, and only one of 3 on the album. I'm glad it has been chosen as the fourth single and I hope it does well when it is released. To add, this song was written by the girls. My 7th favourite track. 8/10

10. No More You: My third least favourite on the album. It's alright. Better than 'Give It To Me Now' and 'Little Miss Perfect'. 7/10

11. Sweet & Amazing (Make It The Best): Another slow track on the album. Very good, and relaxing. It's quite lovely. My 8th favourite track. 8/10

12. Little Miss Perfect: My second least favourite track on the album. It's alright though. 7/10

Overall rating: 93.5/120

Recommended tracks: Miss Everything, She's A Mess and Wait for You.

Harry!

08-03-2010, 08:15 PM

Shaun

13-03-2010, 02:37 PM

****'s sake, i just typed up half a goldfrapp review and accidentally pressed backspace when it wasn't clicked on this text box. all gone. <_<

M X

13-03-2010, 02:39 PM

gutted.

Shaun

13-03-2010, 03:03 PM

quite.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/dd/Head_first_goldfrapp.jpg
Released 22 March 2010 (2010-03-22)
Genre Electronica, synthpop
Length 38:10
Label Mute (STUMM280)
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Their fifth studio album now, Goldfrapp have long been considered the UK's champions of electronic-pop with a unique blend of imaginative vision and camp appeal. Fans of their last venture, 'Seventh Tree', embraced its earthy and almost-drugged up sound that allowed for eccentricity by the bucket.

However the first single from this latest effort, 'Rocket', has divided the fanbase. Hailed by some as a return to their 'Supernature' sound of somewhat sleazy but sexy disco-electronics but criticised by others as a premature destruction of their 'Seventh Tree' indie appeal, is 'Head First' similarly marmitish in its conception?
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1. Rocket - with a sound that can only be described as somewhere extraterrestrially between Thin Lizzy and Donna Summer, the album commences with their first single and it's a stomper. Incredibly camp, Goldfrapp dismisses a lover over incredibly catchy beats. And if that wasn't gay enough, the music video contains pink smoke, pink skies, jumpsuits and an incredibly phallic rocket. Ooer. 9.0/10
2. Believer - sounding more Human League than Goldfrapp, 'Believer' is a fast-paced and similarly catchy number - little visionary work but hey, a little break's more than welcome. 7.0/10
3. Alive - less electronic and more pop, 'Alive' sounds like a less annoying Alphabeat. Alison's vocals are more distinct over simple and pleasant piano tunes and guitar glimpses, but still retain its carefree and upbeat attitude. 7.5/10
4. Dreaming - sounding halfway between Giorgio Moroder and Sonique, 'Dreaming' is probably more nightmarish than the title suggests. Ditching the happy approach, darker and more ominous beats replace but to little effect. 6.0/10
5. Head First - Ironically the most 'Seventh Tree' sounding of this record, 'Head First' demonstrates more soothing vocals and relaxed synths which allow you to be floated through Goldfrapp's pleasant little dream sequence. 6.5/10
6. Hunt - Hushed whispers and piercing synths give this an again sinister sound as she sings "tonight we hunt for you". There're no soaring glimpses of euphoria on this track, perhaps reason for it sticking out in the crowd. 7.0/10
7. Shiny and Warm - A distinct 1-2 beat throughout gives this a steady rhythm but there is little effort put on top. It's almost as if it were designed to go unnoticed. 3.0/10
8. I Wanna Life - If track placing was designed to give 'I Wanna Life' a fair amount of opportunity to more than make up for lost ground, then it works. Sounding almost Gwen Stefani in the delivery, but thankfully un-Gwen Stefani in its pleasantness, this more than makes up for Shiny and Warm. 6.0/10
9. Voicething - There have thus been next to no signs that they could be behind the iamamiwhoami campaign. The campaign, which features 6 (so far) YouTube videos with a distinctly Goldfrapp image of trees, a leud nature-meets-art style and mystery is almost as if they're trying to pin it on Goldfrapp without their knowledge. However, Voicething has an animal-like quality to it with strange breathy voices and sudden turns in tune that make it possible. The track's pretty much the perfect ending to the album - it paves the way for a return to their artistic sound. 5.5/10
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A simple way of summarising the album would be comparing it to a disco experience. It's quick, it's got its highs and euphoric elements, but ultimately it lacks real substance and can be forgotten with another disco. There aren't really any new grounds in Goldfrapp's artistic ability to be found here, and whilst the abundance of feel-good dance-pop will please you for a while, it's not going to be a record you cherish repeatedly.

Rating: 60/90 = 6.6 out of 10.

Shaun

20-03-2010, 06:15 AM

MGMT - Congratulations - quick review

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/f3/MGMT_Congratulations.jpg

From interviews they sound like they're going down an 'album, no singlez' direction - which is something to applaud I guess given the music industry's insistence on placating the increasingly small attention spans of 'popular' listeners and a big '**** you' to those who advocate that.

However, there's something to mourn and that's the absence of a phenomenal single like 'Kids' or 'Time to Pretend'. From my first listen, what sounds like a rebellion against the industry is actually an excuse for a glaring lack in unique or interesting material.

The latter possibility is, however, a harsh one to suggest. The album does have a neo-psychedelic feel to it (especially on 'I Found A Whistle' and 'Someone's Missing') that's both trippy and entertaining. Cameo references to Brian Eno do not go unnoticed - providing one of the better tracks.

Then there's the 12-minute opus 'Siberian Breaks' - which one rather critical listener described as '20 ideas half-heartedly shoved together'. This is not totally unfair; there is a great variety of sounds and styles employed and it could easily be passed off as a track with 3 other hidden tracks.

There is a definite improvement in the songwriting. Ideas are much more thought-through and creative, and the duo sound more Simon and Garfunkel than Daft Punk at times. The track 'Lady Dada's Nightmare' is an extremely intense listening experience; manic screams set to delirious setting.

In short it's a bit of a disappointment. However the majority of critics will be rather unfairly comparing it to their brilliant debut, and yet again the curse of the 'second album' is always going to strike. The album isn't particularly exciting, but it has its highlights and there's a consistency to it.

For those of you who like Empire of the Sun, Goldfrapp, Super Furry Animals.
Rating: 6/10

Damaris

20-03-2010, 04:37 PM

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Chew Lips (sometimes written as CHEW LiPS) are a South London based dance-pop trio, formed in spring of 2008. They consist of singer Tigs, and multi-instrumentalists Will Sanderson and James Watkins

1.Eight-Eight starts the album of with dreamy synths and quiet drumming noises.With lead singer Tigs voice entering sounding fragile then a drum beats kicks in the song real comes into its own.Tigs' voice soars then it goes into a simian mobile disco esque synthy solo.This song sounds like Yeah Yeah Yeahs-Skeltons little sister. 8/10

2-Play Together-Tigs sounds almost seductive on this song.The best thing about Chew Lips is the way they use their electronics.This song just makes you want to dance with the catchiest chorus on the album.'And we’re ready but we didn’t sign Cuz you know it when it isn’t right Better look behind both eyes Oh we’re never getting out alive' it almost starts to sound Euphoric. 10/10

3-Slick-Starts with hand claps and beepy synths.The songs lyrics are probley the best yet.Tigs sounds sad and yearning like she is singing to a lost friend.'Now it seems like its history,thoughts from a past life'.This song could of been better if it was a little bit stripped down to just piano maybe. 8/10

4-Karen-The First sign of Guitar on the album.The song flows really well and all the instruments work well together.The song builds up into a massive chorus which just makes you want to dance. 8/10

5-Too Much Talking-The song starts of mysterious then Tigs comes in again singing as if she is upset.The synths make this song very emotional along with Tigs incredible voice.Then more beepy synths and this song builds up and this song still manages to sound mysterious.Maybe the best electronic style ballad ive heard in a long time. 9/10

6-Toro-Horror synths start this song.Again Tigs' voice shines.i can imagine a horror themed video here like Ladyhawke-Dusk Till Dawn.As like many songs on the album Chew Lips sound effortless. 9/10

7-Seven-This song is the same formula as the others really the verses arent very memorable to be honest.But this songs chorus is just incredible.With Tigs sounding like Karen O.Apart from the massive chorus the rest of the song is kinda average. 7/10

8-Two Hands-Playgroundy childlike gameboy synths start if this song with a tiny electronic drum beat in the background.This song shows of tigs melodic voice brilliantly 7/10

9-Gold Key-The start of the song is kinda muffled but it evolves into probley my favourite songs and lyrics of the album.This song sounds like it would be one when their is a disaster or something.it then builds up with the drums.Still its the most vunreble chew lips sound on the whole album.With a massive guitar synth solo in the 3rd quater.Suprisingly Chew Lips excel when they are singing ballads. 10/10

10-Piano Song-A short closer to the album.Literally piano based with tigs soft voice soaring over the top.this song is generally sweet with the violin etc it just works. 8/10

This album is the second best album of the year so far in my books just behind Los Campesinos-Romance Is Boring.I think they are very underated at the moment.A brilliant album and i cant wait to see them live.

84/100

Damaris

20-03-2010, 04:37 PM

Im gonna do more reviews later :hugesmile:

Shaun

25-05-2010, 12:50 PM

Christina Aguilera - Bionic
http://images.hitfix.com/photos/353164/christina-aguilera-bionic_article_story_main.jpg

The press surrounding Christina Aguilera lately has been divided to say the least. It's been 4 years since her last new project, Back to Basics, and whilst a greatest hits compilation and VMA performance have provided her fans with a few glimpses of respite - many have grown impatient with the star. Ranked 53rd in Rolling Stone's "Greatest Voices of all time" (the only under-30yo to be in the list), Aguilera's taken a whole host of creativity criticisms from angry GaGa fanatics and the blind and impressionable - deluding themselves into thinking that anyone who wears a bizarre headpiece is now a copycat - and the video for "Not Myself Tonight", Bionic's lead single, didn't exactly endear herself to said cynics.

But more confusing is where to place Bionic. Music has changed a bit since 2006 - where digital downloads were still a novel concept and Lady GaGa was still a man. "Not Myself Tonight" released nearly two months ago now, and it seemed to have thoroughly jumped on board with the electro-pop/dance bandwagon.

However, the album is little influenced by this genre. With producers and writers ranging from alternative urban influences M.I.A. and Santogold, to safe and cosy indiequeen Sia, Aguilera tries her hand at a whole host of different styles and the album feels a little disjointed as a result. It's not exactly R&B, it's not exactly dance, it's not exactly deathcore.

Opening with the eponymous track there's an immediate resonance of M.I.A.'s distinctive sound. "Bionic", "Desnudate" and "Elastic Love" are all strong examples of this influence, and Aguilera would be able to pull it off more comfortably...if she featured more. She almost seems to be the featuring artist here rather than one in her own shoes.

Empty and vague assertions are made throughout on her signature "intros" and "interludes" (proclaiming rather general thoughts about the importance of fashion and glamour) and "Glam" is another such tedious track. It's sure to please those who believe mumbling the words "ooh, fierce, move it baby, shake it" is an entirely fresh signature. "Prima Donna" continues the trend, albeit in a more slick and finished fashion - where Aguilera confidently demonstrates her vocals rather than whispers and mutters.

"Sex For Breakfast" is always going to be an interesting title to look out for, but this time it's for all the wrong reasons. Rather than a sexy and provocative number, it's a lazy R&B deadweight that Mariah Carey would probably endorse.

Aguilera finally comes back to something familiar on "Lift Me Up" - a song she released months ago for the Help For Haiti campaign under an acapella version. This time round, she has a mellow and unusually easygoing backdrop for what's otherwise a vulnerable and genuinely emotive ballad. She plays further on the heartstrings with the "My Heart Intro" featuring 21 seconds of her family interacting cutely.

There are then a few more fillers in the form of "I Am" and "All I Need" - both uninspired yet cute ballads that sound like the soundtrack to a sour love story in New York.

However, Christina's real masterclass is shown on "You Lost Me", which has the potential to be one of her most talented and powerful ballads to date (a difficult hill to climb given the likes of "Hurt", "The Voice Within" and "Beautiful"). Documenting an abusive relationship with a classic strings backdrop, Aguilera truly shines and it builds into something quite magical.

There are then 3 more tracks which are a return to the fun, dancier Christina which offer a few flashbacks to the like of "Can't Hold Us Down" and "Come On Over". "I Hate Boys" is a simple and infectious tune that could perform well as a single - "My Girls" features guest vocals from Peaches and is equally catchy.

The album, however, ends on "Vanity" - a rather shallow and unattractive proclamation of how confident Christina is whilst resorting to pointless provocativeness in "that bitch is so ****ing pretty" and "I make myself so much wetter". Again, it'll please the queens, a group I fraternise with at a toedeep level evidently, because this just makes me cringe. The song ends with Aguilera asking "who owns the throne?" to which her son replies "You do, mommy" - which on the surface would seem rather cute, had mommy not just sung about being 'wet'.

------------------------------------------
As a result it's difficult to place this album. Is it as good as Back to Basics? Not by a long shot. But does it have any redeeming qualities? It certainly has its highlights. I have a feeling though that in today's musical climate, Aguilera will struggle to pull off this disjointed and jack-of-all-trades approach. Yet again, she's only demonstrated herself to be a master of one - the belting and suckerpunching ballads.

Must-haves: Lift Me Up, Not Myself Tonight, Desnudate, Bionic, You Lost Me, I Hate Boys
Avoid like the plague: Vanity, Glam, All I Need

Rating: 6.0/10

Shaun

25-05-2010, 03:02 PM

"OMG SHAUN YOUR REVIEWS ARE AMAZING"

yeah i know.

Smithy

25-05-2010, 09:25 PM

We have an album review thread :shocked:

And I pretty much agree with everything in the Xtina Review, although I haven't heard much of MIA/Santogold

Shaun

27-05-2010, 05:22 PM

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Robyn - Body Talk Pt.1

In the first of what is set to be an ambitious 3 albums this year, swedish popstar Robyn returns from a renewed sense of pop stardom. She emerged in the 90s with a one-hit-wonder and seemed unlikely to return, especially not in 2007. But she managed the impossible and even managed to push her way to the No#1 spot for 3 weeks with "With Every Heartbeat". She now has her name embezzled in the hearts of many a dance-loving gay and doll, but can she continue the success on THREE albums?

"Don't ****ing Tell Me What To Do" is unusually understated given its title, as Robyn lists off a range of things that are supposedly 'killing me' - which on the surface would be a lovely '**** you' to the Daily Mail and other such nanny state endorsors, but is more than likely a 'go away' to peers. However this is all forgotten with "Fembots", a sugary sweet dance tune that packs more of its punch in the verses and is one of those tracks that'll creep up on the chasms of your mind at the randomest of times.

"With Every Heartbeat" introduced us to a moodier and more forlorn Robyn, throwing out killer dance hooks but instead showcasing miserable and envious lyrics. Such a move is again demonstrated on "Dancing On My Own" - one of the best dance tunes in years. She continues her unique blend of euphoric music and emotional lyrics on "Cry When You Get Older", albeit in a more optimistic way.

"Dancehall Queen" however seems to introduce a kind of reggae vibe, taking a break from her typical rushed delivery and providing a break from mould. There is then a return of favour on "None of Dem", featuring Norwegian electronic giants Röyksopp (with whom she featured on their track "The Girl and the Robot"). However, those anticipating a repeat of TGATR will be disappointed, as None of Dem is a lingering and bizarre number rather than instant tearing-off-the-roof.

Robyn then moves into "Hang With Me", an acoustic track. It's instantly forgettable, unfortunately, though does make use of a few nice strings and showcases her vocal ability which is often overlooked. She ends Part 1 with "Jag Vet En Dejlig Rosa", a creepy and understated melody that my minimal research has told me borrows from a 16th century Swedish melody; the title meaning "I Know A Lovely Rose". It's a very bizarre ending from Robyn, but at least adds a little diversity to the proceedings.

In short the 2010 Robyn slogan seems to be 'something for everybody'. Experimentations are dealt with at a skin-deep level, never really venturing too far from her safe 'moody-dance' niche - but it's a niche she's nailed perfectly.
Must-haves: Dancing On My Own, Fembots, Dancehall Queen
Avoid: n/a. Cry When You Get Older is a bit forgettable.
Rating: 7/10

Billy

04-06-2010, 12:50 AM

I adore Robyns new album, in particular Dancing On My Own +& Cry When You Get Olderrrrr!

lol

19-06-2010, 02:13 PM

Here are 2 new albums:

The Powerless Rise by As I Lay Dying:

My Rating: 7/10

Excellent riffs, vocals, drums as usual. This album seems a bit heavier than the rest, and much better. They're improving by every album they make, which is quite rare compared to some bands.

Fever by Bullet for my Valentine:

My Rating: 4/10

Not bad, but still quite a lot worse than their earlier albums. The songs are starting to sound the same now, they're becoming less heavier. However there are some good riffs and solo's here and there.

Shaun

20-06-2010, 08:38 AM

Well that's really swayed my opinion.

Shaun

22-06-2010, 01:27 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/5a/M.I.A._-_Maya.jpg
M.I.A. - /\/\ /\ Y /\

With two previous albums that earned more critical attention than public, Maya Arulpragasam finds herself inbetween a rock and a hard place. There's going to be the inevitable expectations to continue making the artistic and pointful music she's earned such praise for (Arular and Kala both performed highly in end-of-the-decade critics' lists). But a surge in public attention due to the genius single "Paper Planes", showcased in more films and promotional pieces than you can shake a stick at, has made her music a whole lot more mainstream.

Indeed, her media presence thus far this year has not been ignored. She's inescapable - one week she's ranting about the state of Lady GaGa, the next she's producing Christina Aguilera songs. The video for her single "Born Free" has drawn millions of complaints and controversy with its depiction of ginger-haired people enduring the same kind of genocide and army persecution that other races have.

So what of the music?

The album opens with 'The Message' and its computer keyboard-tapping and lyrics "head bone connects to the neck bone. Neck bone connects to the arm bone. Arm bone connects to the hand bone. Hand bone connects to the internet bone. Internet bone connects to the Government bone." set over loud synths and heavy drumming. A brief glimpse of the album's experimental (with instruments) sound, and a rather critical stab at Google for (as she's mentioned in interviews) its neglect to provide much in the way of coverage of Sri Lanka (her home country)'s violence.

"Steppin' Up" has been confirmed as the second single and it's not hard to see why. With catchy hooks and lyrics (rub-a-dub-dub) and a distinctive pneumatic drilling sound, M.I.A. is full of confidence in her assertions that "you know who I am", in what is further evidence of this being her most energetic and 'loud' album yet.

Next up is her first single, "XXXO", a satirical piece taking the style of almost every popstar's single - using fashionable memes (xxxo) and parodying other artists' singles such as Lady GaGa's Pokerface and Love Game. "You want me to be somebody who I'm really not" perhaps a hint of her uncomfortability with mainstream attention. It's one of the year's catchiest singles thus far, and demonstrates anything they can do, M.I.A. can do better.

'Teqkilla' follows with further dubstep influences and a tribal-sounding drum beat. Electronic beeps and whizzes are thrown in almost at random giving the track a crazed feel, helped by M.I.A.'s almost menacing vocals, but at over 6 minutes long it's easy to lose track. 'Lovalot' follows and concentrates further on her more satirical and political sides, namedropping the Taliban, Hu Jintao and Mecca. Delivering these so casually along with the line "I fight the ones that fight me" give it an intense feel.

'Story to be Told' offers a more traditional sound that is a lot easier on the ear, still catching attention with sounds of aeroplanes taking off and sirens, as Maya retails "all I ever wanted was my story to be told". With her preceding albums named Kala and Arular after her parents, /\/\ /\ Y /\ is all about establishing M.I.A.'s own identity and you can sense her urgency in doing so here. 'It Takes a Muscle' follows, with bizarre distorted vocals set over an exquisite and almost reggae electronic tune, helping to cement her universal appeal.

'It Iz What It Iz' is a more conventional modern tune in its use of a synth-laden beat and in that sense it's a disappointment. However, 'Born Free' follows and its sample of Suicide's "Ghost Rider" is put to fantastic use. Full of energy, Born Free is a demonstration of M.I.A.'s (i hate to use the word but it fits here) swagger and the power she can, and wants to, assert. "I don't want to live for tomorrow, I push my life today, I'll throw this **** in your face when I see you, 'cos I've got something to say" particularly stands out.

'Meds and Feds' follows and with a return to the more industrial sound, with heavy electric guitars and electronic jumps that gives it an equally energetic (as Born Free) feel. Its hook makes it one of the album's stand-out tracks. 'Tell Me Why' follows and with a much more laidback feel, with M.I.A. reverting to singing rather than her typical rap delivery. However, all of its simple appeal is unfortunately overshadowed by confused and rather directionless lyrics.

The album finishes on 'Space' and continues with the singing and infectious electronic sound. The lyrics "my lines are you down, you can't call me" hint at a detached M.I.A. - or at least from modern technology, which is something she hesitantly attacks. Of course, the problems often outweigh the benefits, but when said benefits are helping her career, it's a difficult pill to swallow.

--------------------------------------------------

In conclusion, /\/\ /\ Y /\ is an extremely strong follow-up. In some respects it even outweighs its predecessors, particularly in energy and popular appeal. However, I get the sense it's going to lose many of her older fans in doing so. But eh, there're some who only want to cling on to the trendy and unknown. Some of the songwriting here is the best of the year by miles, and M.I.A. is nowhere near past her prime just yet.
Highlights: XXXO, Steppin' Up, Meds and Feds, Lovalot, Story to be Told
Avoid: Tell Me Why

Rating: 8/10

MeMyselfAndI

22-06-2010, 01:57 PM

can someone review Daisy dares you album thats coming out in july i think you would like it shaun you should listen to "rosie"

and JLS new album out in july and Shayne Wards album out in july pls :)

CaraRawr

22-06-2010, 02:00 PM

XXXO is a tune. <3

MrGaryy

22-06-2010, 05:21 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b7/Can%27t_Be_Tamed.jpg

Miley Cyrus - Can't Be Tamed

Hannah Montana star Miley Cyrus approaches her 18th birthday this year. Having already released two very successful pop albums to her obedient tween audience and achieved worldwide success with the chilled, cool Party In The USA as well as keeping up a striving movie career, one poses the question, how does the Queen of Tween make her transition to bonafide pop princess. With this record, Miley snarls back, 'watch and learn...'

The album kicks off with the fiesty and ferocious declaration of freedom Liberty Walk. Miley snaps about those who have 'tied her up' across zooming synths and makes it clear this is a new Miley Cyrus - the rebellion has begun and if you don't like it you're out of luck. Who Owns My Heart follows, a eurotrance club tune with whispered vocals asking who owns our teen sensation's heart - love or art? One would judging by this record so far - cash, truly posses Miley's heart.

Things flow nicely on to the album's lead single Can't Be Tamed, a Piece of Me-esque electropop stomper with similar themes of being uncontrollable and free. The little girl who skipped around a stage singing the Best of Both Worlds is now fully sexed up and rebelling against society's expectations. Not exactly an original concept for an album given those who came before her's almost identical defiance. Miley begs those around her in the album's bridge 'don't change me', yet on the contrary, it seems to be Miley herself who is making the changes here.

Miley takes the autotune down a notch on the record's first ballad. Every Rose Has It's Thorn is a clichéd, unoriginal dribbled shmaltz-fest. Luckily, things don't get stuck in the mud as she swiftly picks things back up again with the peppy, guitar ridden Two More Lonely People. Miley once again shows that she can bash out a typical bouncy pop affair with the best of them. Having already lived through three public relationships, Miley sings with more emotion and sincerity than ever before.

Forgiveness and Love confirms what was becoming more apparent. While Miley has never been so experience and genuine in her entire career, she seems to have totally lost her knack for belting out a decent ballad like we saw on The Climb and Simple Song. From what was definite low point, the record swiftly moves on to one of Miley's best ever pop songs. Permanent December is a Ke$ha like, autotuned flirtatious electro romp complete with a chanting sing along chorus and childish lyrics that make you want to forget your troubles and dance.

Stay is probably the strongest ballad of the record. She manages to wail with an ounce more conviction than before over a generic dramatic instrumental. Following this, Scars is cute little song but ultimately, filler material, with no apparent purpose other than to make up numbers. The pianos kick in once again on Take Me Along an optimistic, mid tempo power anthem that's totally pleasant and enjoyable, if a little forgettable.

The album closes how it began with it's final couplet comprising of Robot and My Heart Beats For Love. The former is an edgy, loud demonstration of liberation demanding those around her to stop treating her as a machine, claiming she's just 'me'. The latter, she claims to have penned for the gay community - if the girl can do nothing else, she can hedge her bets. It works well as a closing farewell and what could be Miley's last ever pop song as the singer recently revealed her plans to retire from pop music altogether.

Miley accomplishes quite a bit with this record. By the third track alone she's shed her Hannah Montana image and you forget that this seductive, brazen pop vixen was once a tween sensation. Whilst you won't find a single morsel of originality here, what Miley does provide is a thoroughly enjoyable, consistently well produced fluffy pop record. She sings with more vocal prowess and conviction than ever before and really makes you hope that her plans to bow out from music for the foreseeable future fall through. However should her plans remain intact, Can't Be Tamed serves it's purpose as a very worthy farewell to pop.

Strongest Tracks: Can't Be Tamed, Permanent December, My Heart Beats for Love, Liberty Walk.
Weakest Tracks: To be quite honest none of the ballads did much for me, but I'll definitely be skipping Forgiveness and Love further more.

Shaun

23-06-2010, 10:32 AM

Have heard Can't be Tamed, Take Me Along and Permanent December...and they were all naff. She's turned into a parody of every other popstar out there - and it's a shame. She had some potential with decent songs like Party in the USA/7 Things, but now...oh dear.

Damaris

28-07-2010, 09:38 PM

M.I.A's new album is the secong best of the year i reckon.its so awesome!I think Tell me why is one of the best though!

lol

29-07-2010, 09:43 AM

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Nightmare by Avenged Sevenfold

This album takes you on a dark journey. A7X continue to make unique, and simply outstanding masterpieces. Since Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan died, they changed the majority of the lyrics so they were about him. Everything is performed well on this album, Mike Portnoy did the drumming well, which The Rev had wrote before he died. Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengeance continue to do their brilliant duo's, Matt Shadows as always, has the great rock n roll voice. Johnny Christ is as good as ever with his bass.

This album was made to sound like their earlier stuff from Waking The Fallen and City of Evil. It has a mixture of moods like the most of their songs, but this is probably the darkest album yet. It was a hard year for them, making this album, especially since the death of The Rev, their drummer/backing vocals/pianist/songwriter.

Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan died 3 days after finishing all the notes and lyrics, including doing the demo of the drumming with his electronic drum kit. He wrote the majority of songs, including the piano, and some orchestra bits. He is one of the most creative musicians of modern times, and has made a lot of masterpieces for A7X, such as "A Little Piece of Heaven" from their self-titled album.

"Fiction" is a spooky themed masterpiece, "So Far Away" is a song Syn wrote dedicated to the Rev, a sad themed song just like the song "Save Me" which is 11 minutes long, their longest song yet, and it's simply amazing, can bring a tear to your eye. "Nightmare" is a kind of crazy song, like "Bat Country" from City of Evil, but it's crazy in a spooky way. They have lots of other great songs with good riffs, such as "God Hates Us" and "Buried Alive". "God Hates Us" is quite a heavy song unlike the rest of the other songs on Nightmare. It is heavily influenced by Pantera. "Victim" is also a great masterpiece, with vocals from other singers, a song that's speaks a lot about the Rev, since Matt changed the lyrics. The rest of the songs are great aswell, they are catchy and you can easily tell each song apart.

Overall, they continue to surprise us with their talent and musical knowledge in this album, and I'm sure Jimmy would be proud.