Jedward twins create trouble once more
After causing much controversy on X Factor this autumn, John and Edward Grimes, the most famous twins in Dublin managed to create havoc even after leaving the show.
The half of the nation not sick of the twosome was ecstatic when they announced various appearances in clubs around the UK, one of these places being Oceana in Southampton.
However a week before the date they were due to appear, they cancelled because of apparent TV commitments. Rumours began to emerge as to the details of these commitments, the most popular being that they may be taken to the jungle for a guest appearance on I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! which began again this week. Mark Boustead from ITV confirmed that ‘they aren’t going to be joining I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!’
A representative from Oceana, Southampton explained that ‘we are obviously disappointed that they can’t make it, but are looking forward to them performing on the 17th December.’ This rescheduled date disappointed many John and Edward fans as it falls the week after most of the student population have gone home for Christmas, prompting many ticket holders to ask for a refund. One upset fan, Vicky McIntosh explained ‘I was very excited about seeing Jedward at Oceana but we had to get a refund. We were not given an explanation as to why the gig was rescheduled.’
John and Edward are continuing their UK appearances throughout the next month.
Monday, 1 February 2010
What a Load of Rubbish
Are the top selling singles of the decade really worthy?
So as the end of ‘The Noughties’ draws near, a reflection of the past 10 years of “music” begins. Thinking back, it’s almost impossible to pick out any memorable songs within the hoards of dire, throwaway trash that seems to have become a staple of the top 40 chart.
It seems like an eternity since Simon Cowell began smothering the nation with his repetitive reality music shows, producing a mediocre musical puppet from his money factory to take over the charts each year. Looking over the top ten biggest selling singles of the decade, a shiver runs down my spine as it becomes apparent that 5 of the songs were released by a winner from X Factor and Popstars.
Is this really what our music industry has turned into? Square haired millionaires too big for their boots are allowed to brainwash the public into believing that this rubbish is ‘talent’. Gone are the days of artists writing their own music and being rewarded for it. Cobain and Lennon would be spinning in their graves if they could see what a joke the industry has turned into. What happened to skilled musicians writing their own songs getting to number one?
The rest of the top ten is filled with pop music with as little aptitude as the rest, including Bob The Builder of all people, and of course everyone’s favourite reggae ‘star’ Shaggy. It also includes Pete Kay’s ‘Amarillo’, questionably one of the most irritating songs of all time. This list really does make you wonder why artists with genuine talent even bother.
It seems the sane half of the music buying public who have an ear for decent music stick to buying albums. Leona Lewis is the only TV winner who has made it into the top 10 selling albums. At least this is some consolation for the cynical minds among us.
So as the end of ‘The Noughties’ draws near, a reflection of the past 10 years of “music” begins. Thinking back, it’s almost impossible to pick out any memorable songs within the hoards of dire, throwaway trash that seems to have become a staple of the top 40 chart.
It seems like an eternity since Simon Cowell began smothering the nation with his repetitive reality music shows, producing a mediocre musical puppet from his money factory to take over the charts each year. Looking over the top ten biggest selling singles of the decade, a shiver runs down my spine as it becomes apparent that 5 of the songs were released by a winner from X Factor and Popstars.
Is this really what our music industry has turned into? Square haired millionaires too big for their boots are allowed to brainwash the public into believing that this rubbish is ‘talent’. Gone are the days of artists writing their own music and being rewarded for it. Cobain and Lennon would be spinning in their graves if they could see what a joke the industry has turned into. What happened to skilled musicians writing their own songs getting to number one?
The rest of the top ten is filled with pop music with as little aptitude as the rest, including Bob The Builder of all people, and of course everyone’s favourite reggae ‘star’ Shaggy. It also includes Pete Kay’s ‘Amarillo’, questionably one of the most irritating songs of all time. This list really does make you wonder why artists with genuine talent even bother.
It seems the sane half of the music buying public who have an ear for decent music stick to buying albums. Leona Lewis is the only TV winner who has made it into the top 10 selling albums. At least this is some consolation for the cynical minds among us.
Wednesday, 11 November 2009
Ministry of Sound, The Annual 2010
Listening to this album just before a night out, it seemed to be most fitting, with the beats of Armand Van Helden buzzing through my ears. Once the captivating bass lines and tasty tunes begin, it’s hard to stop listening as each brilliant track rolls into another in a never ending spiral of dance goodness.
The sub heading ‘One Year. One Album’ sums this up perfectly. If you’ve been stood in a club this year whilst an amazing dance song is playing and not know what it was, you will more than likely find it in this awesome collection. With all the big names from Deadmau5 to Sub Focus, most being brilliant remixes. Including popular indie tunes by Bloc Party, Calvin Harris and Friendly Fires this album has something to get almost anyone up and dancing.
With 3 CDs full of hits, there is no weak one. The eye catching case and the way it is presented is particularly impressive, to match the music. No two songs are the same, jumping from calm and thought provoking songs like Chicane’s ‘Poppiholla’ to lively r’n’b from Pitball. Dizzee Rascal definitely seems to be a favourite at the Ministry this year, with a song of his on each CD.
The 60 songs are full of the best rhythms, clicks, raps and hits of the year to delight your party senses. If there was ever an album to make you feel like partying the night away, this is certainly it.
The sub heading ‘One Year. One Album’ sums this up perfectly. If you’ve been stood in a club this year whilst an amazing dance song is playing and not know what it was, you will more than likely find it in this awesome collection. With all the big names from Deadmau5 to Sub Focus, most being brilliant remixes. Including popular indie tunes by Bloc Party, Calvin Harris and Friendly Fires this album has something to get almost anyone up and dancing.
With 3 CDs full of hits, there is no weak one. The eye catching case and the way it is presented is particularly impressive, to match the music. No two songs are the same, jumping from calm and thought provoking songs like Chicane’s ‘Poppiholla’ to lively r’n’b from Pitball. Dizzee Rascal definitely seems to be a favourite at the Ministry this year, with a song of his on each CD.
The 60 songs are full of the best rhythms, clicks, raps and hits of the year to delight your party senses. If there was ever an album to make you feel like partying the night away, this is certainly it.
Thursday, 5 November 2009
Making A Statement
Sat in a cramped room with a lot less seating than needed, a group of cheeky young men stood. The Statement Code are a four-piece pop punk band from Southampton. Not yet rock n roll enough to kick up a fuss, jokes are already being cracked about the situation. As lead singer Vince kindly decides to sort out chairs for everyone, the interview can begin.
As gentlemanly and genuine as the band seem, be careful not to assume their music is as laid back as their personalities. Each song contains powerful lyrics which make you think and melodies catchy enough to rival established bands like All Time Low. When asked about inspirations, an eclectic mix of bands were mentioned. As the band pianist, Stuart says ‘I still get my inspiration from Coldplay and that. I wouldn’t compare our stuff to them though.’ Brand New and Muse were also mentioned, though one band they all agree on is a German Band called 'They’re amazing, you should check them out!’ With my homework noted, I wanted to find out more about how the band formed.
‘1982’ they kid, sending them into barrels of laughter once more. ‘Nah, just the first year of uni wasn’t it?’ Aaron confirmes. They contemplate between themselves for a while on the exact time. Shaun tells me that ‘We got put into a band for our course and sort of changed the line up a little bit.’ Joining in with their banter, I asked whether they kicked out the useless members. Laughing, he said ‘Yeah. We got Aaron yeah, he wasn’t in it originally. We swapped instruments.’ Talented and adaptable? Is there anything these four lads can’t do? It seems not, as their very professional looking debut video for song ‘Tight’ was created solely by them. ‘We just did it all ourselves. It was kind of a last minute thing, we thought lets just f*** around on the top of Ikea. It was on a phone as well!’
As soon as the word ‘gigs’ escaped my mouth, a spiral of excitement encased the boys, making it almost impossible to stop them talking. When asked about their favourite gig so far, they found it hard to pick just one, proving how much they enjoy performing. I decided instead to ask exactly why they enjoy it so much, to which they gave a very clear answer. ‘Playing our songs really, I like playing our songs to people’ pipes Aaron as the rest nod in agreement. Vince adds that ‘onstage I don’t really care what people think.’ Stuart agrees, stating, ‘you might to look back and think, I look like a bit of a tit there but as long as we enjoy it that’s all that matters.’ Wise words from such a young band. If only more bands cared more about how much fun they were having than how cool they look.
As talks with the record production students who will produce their album are in the pipeline, the future seems bright for The Statement Code. Their plan? ‘Getting people to actually want to come and see us.’ Although said light heartedly, to them it feels essential. They add that ‘we’re not really that well known at the moment so the more gigs we do the more people will hear and get to know us.’ With a great reception from their previous gigs, this seems far from impossible. So with an album coming to you soon and more than likely a gig near you too, I think it’s time for you to check this band out. Their music is as infectious as their laughter; you’ve got no choice but to love them.
As gentlemanly and genuine as the band seem, be careful not to assume their music is as laid back as their personalities. Each song contains powerful lyrics which make you think and melodies catchy enough to rival established bands like All Time Low. When asked about inspirations, an eclectic mix of bands were mentioned. As the band pianist, Stuart says ‘I still get my inspiration from Coldplay and that. I wouldn’t compare our stuff to them though.’ Brand New and Muse were also mentioned, though one band they all agree on is a German Band called 'They’re amazing, you should check them out!’ With my homework noted, I wanted to find out more about how the band formed.
‘1982’ they kid, sending them into barrels of laughter once more. ‘Nah, just the first year of uni wasn’t it?’ Aaron confirmes. They contemplate between themselves for a while on the exact time. Shaun tells me that ‘We got put into a band for our course and sort of changed the line up a little bit.’ Joining in with their banter, I asked whether they kicked out the useless members. Laughing, he said ‘Yeah. We got Aaron yeah, he wasn’t in it originally. We swapped instruments.’ Talented and adaptable? Is there anything these four lads can’t do? It seems not, as their very professional looking debut video for song ‘Tight’ was created solely by them. ‘We just did it all ourselves. It was kind of a last minute thing, we thought lets just f*** around on the top of Ikea. It was on a phone as well!’
As soon as the word ‘gigs’ escaped my mouth, a spiral of excitement encased the boys, making it almost impossible to stop them talking. When asked about their favourite gig so far, they found it hard to pick just one, proving how much they enjoy performing. I decided instead to ask exactly why they enjoy it so much, to which they gave a very clear answer. ‘Playing our songs really, I like playing our songs to people’ pipes Aaron as the rest nod in agreement. Vince adds that ‘onstage I don’t really care what people think.’ Stuart agrees, stating, ‘you might to look back and think, I look like a bit of a tit there but as long as we enjoy it that’s all that matters.’ Wise words from such a young band. If only more bands cared more about how much fun they were having than how cool they look.
As talks with the record production students who will produce their album are in the pipeline, the future seems bright for The Statement Code. Their plan? ‘Getting people to actually want to come and see us.’ Although said light heartedly, to them it feels essential. They add that ‘we’re not really that well known at the moment so the more gigs we do the more people will hear and get to know us.’ With a great reception from their previous gigs, this seems far from impossible. So with an album coming to you soon and more than likely a gig near you too, I think it’s time for you to check this band out. Their music is as infectious as their laughter; you’ve got no choice but to love them.
The Second Bridge, Bath. Club Review.
As the familiar creaks of ‘Thriller’ blasted out of the speakers as I arrived, it was clear this was going to be a night full of big tunes. As this was the eve of Halloween, it was pleasantly surprising that the night was not crammed full of cheesy one hit wonders. Instead, the cramped underground club threw out drum and bass like there was no tomorrow as it thumped through the walls into the crowds’ ears.
With amazing dubstep remixes of massive songs like La Roux’s ‘In For The Kill’, Dizzee Rascal’s ‘Bonkers’ and Daft Punk’s ‘One More Time’ the atmosphere was electric. The jumping bodies especially went mad for Sydney Samson’s ‘Riverside’, a definite highlight of the night. With the excitement at it’s highest and the floor vibrating under the pressure, the drum and bass continued to pump until the very end.
With amazing dubstep remixes of massive songs like La Roux’s ‘In For The Kill’, Dizzee Rascal’s ‘Bonkers’ and Daft Punk’s ‘One More Time’ the atmosphere was electric. The jumping bodies especially went mad for Sydney Samson’s ‘Riverside’, a definite highlight of the night. With the excitement at it’s highest and the floor vibrating under the pressure, the drum and bass continued to pump until the very end.
Thursday, 29 October 2009
Michael Jackson's This Is It
Fashioning a silver blazer and red drainpipes, the superstar moves elegantly across the stage with effortless skill. As ‘You Wanna Be Startin’ Something’ begins to play and Michael reveals his pitch perfect voice, you know something special is about to happen.
Spending the duration of the film in awe, it would be so easy to watch Michael all day. Turning each of his already amazing songs into brilliant spectacles with the help of clever CGI and fireworks, it shows what an incredible concert we have all missed out on.
It was comforting to see the film focus purely on Michael’s talent, no hint of propaganda about his health or other personal business. He is seen to be so hard working, not stopping until every note, every beat, every move, is perfect. He mentions on a few occasions how he is saving his best for the real shows, yet his rehearsals were still enough to give me goosebumps. It’s hard to imagine just how brilliant this show would have been.
Interviews with the shows’ dancers and musicians expose how loved and respected Michael is, for most this being the pinnacle of their career. As the documentary ends with a montage of clips over new single ‘This Is It’, an air of sadness hangs over the cinema as the reality that such a rare, legendary talent has been lost. This Is It is a great way to preserve Michael Jackson’s wonder.
Spending the duration of the film in awe, it would be so easy to watch Michael all day. Turning each of his already amazing songs into brilliant spectacles with the help of clever CGI and fireworks, it shows what an incredible concert we have all missed out on.
It was comforting to see the film focus purely on Michael’s talent, no hint of propaganda about his health or other personal business. He is seen to be so hard working, not stopping until every note, every beat, every move, is perfect. He mentions on a few occasions how he is saving his best for the real shows, yet his rehearsals were still enough to give me goosebumps. It’s hard to imagine just how brilliant this show would have been.
Interviews with the shows’ dancers and musicians expose how loved and respected Michael is, for most this being the pinnacle of their career. As the documentary ends with a montage of clips over new single ‘This Is It’, an air of sadness hangs over the cinema as the reality that such a rare, legendary talent has been lost. This Is It is a great way to preserve Michael Jackson’s wonder.
Wednesday, 14 October 2009
General Fiasco - The Joiners, Southampton
Storming the stage with such energy and enthusiasm, it’s hard not to become instantly hooked by General Fiasco’s lively charisma. And with a set list full of melodic indie tunes to please your eardrums, it’s easy to see why there is an exciting buzz around this band.
The Irish three-some perform all of their MySpace hits including ‘Rebel Get By’ and ‘Ever So Shy’ to an audience who know every word. The vocals are tinted with their cheeky accents, which when added to the unbelievably catchy songs creates an irresistible indie mixture. Don’t assume they are one trick ponies though.
Band member Owen swaps his bass for an acoustic guitar at one point for a solo performance. As the spotlight shines on him, his talent beams. Performing with such emotion and grace, it was a definite shivers-down-the-spine moment. Something clicked, this band is awesomely talented.
It seems the amount of dedicated followers is set to rise as this captivating band support The Enemy on their tour later this month.
The Irish three-some perform all of their MySpace hits including ‘Rebel Get By’ and ‘Ever So Shy’ to an audience who know every word. The vocals are tinted with their cheeky accents, which when added to the unbelievably catchy songs creates an irresistible indie mixture. Don’t assume they are one trick ponies though.
Band member Owen swaps his bass for an acoustic guitar at one point for a solo performance. As the spotlight shines on him, his talent beams. Performing with such emotion and grace, it was a definite shivers-down-the-spine moment. Something clicked, this band is awesomely talented.
It seems the amount of dedicated followers is set to rise as this captivating band support The Enemy on their tour later this month.
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