tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46980027099754471472024-03-13T11:46:59.793+00:00WE PLUG G.O.O.D MUSICWE love G.O.O.D Music! & not just that mainstream music either! We love... anything really & from anyone too! If it sounds GOOD, we'll plug it (plug = spread the word lol)! We aim to bring 2 U G.O.O.D music that radio doesn’t play... that U won't hear anywhere!Ayo 'Ayohla' Adepoju (WPGM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/00305560267975113870noreply@blogger.comBlogger160125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-4042784501596823112012-09-06T21:45:00.002+01:002012-09-06T21:45:31.221+01:00We Plug Radio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Ayo 'Ayohla' Adepoju (WPGM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/00305560267975113870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-29475728752687582282012-06-05T02:03:00.000+01:002012-06-08T12:08:37.199+01:00The Best NEW & EMERGING Music - May 2012<div style="text-align: justify;">
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The last time we were both here, we were faced with the daunting task of summing up the <b><i><a href="http://wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music">Best New & Emerging Music</a></i></b> of April 2012 into just five songs. We barely managed to accomplish this impossible feat - only just - because the amount of amazing new music that we've been blessed with so far this year has been ridiculous and April was no different. The weeks of May 2012 have not been an exception either, we literally have good music bursting out at the seams for us to share with you - from Hip-Hop to Electronic Music to Afrobeats to Indie to Pop and everything in between - so without further ado, here's your <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> of May (30/04/12 - 27/05/12) 2012...<br />
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<b>LEMONADE - SOFT KISS</b></div>
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"<b>Soft Kiss</b>" is the second single to be released by Brooklyn Dance-Pop trio <b>LEMONADE</b> off of their recently released sophomore album <b>Diver</b> which is out now via <b>True Panther</b>. Technically Lemonade shouldn't be featured in this <b><i>Best New & Emerging Music</i></b> list considering they are on their second album and their first was in 2008 but I'm willing to take a wager that many of you are not privy to this awesome band and because "Soft Kiss" is one of the best songs I heard in May, I simply had to share it with you. Listen below to the lush coming together of delicious slices of Chillwave, experimental R&B and 80's Pop that is "Soft Kiss" and download it <a href="http://www.truepanther.com/mp3/Lemonade_Softkiss.mp3">HERE</a>...<br />
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<b>AB-SOUL + ALORI JOH + JAVONTE - "EMPATHY"</b></div>
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I was in two minds as to which song off of <b>AB-SOUL's</b> recently released stellar album <b><i>Control System</i></b> that I should share with you in this <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> feature. On one hand, there is the dark and sensual Hip-Hop love song "<b>Empathy</b>" which features <b>Javonte</b> and the late <b>Alori Joh</b> while on the other hand, there is the excellently hard hitting opus "Illuminate" which features <b>Kendrick Lamar</b>. Both songs are pretty much amazing but in the end, we chose "Empathy" because we are very partial to the underpinning emotion that is attached to "Empathy" which was released in loving memory of <b>Alori Joh</b> who died only a few months ago. Watch the <b>JeromeD</b>-directed visuals below...<br />
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<b>JESSIE WARE - "WHAT YOU WON'T DO FOR LOVE"</b><br />
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Emerging British Singer/Songwriter <b>JESSIE WARE</b> makes her second appearance in our <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> series this year with a song that literally gives me life every time I hear it. Superbly produced by frequent collaborator <b>Sampha</b> and covering <b>Bobby Cladwell's</b> 1978 smash hit of the same name, Jessie Ware's "<b>What You Won't Do For Love</b>" is all kinds of excellent, from Sampha's minimalist musical backdrop to Jessie's delicate and captivating vocals and how both milieu and vocals wrap around each other rather perfectly to those gloriously subtle backing harmonies (courtesy of Sampha also). Sadly this doesn't make her début album <b><i>Devotion</i></b> which is due out in August but she has blessed us with it anyway so listen below...<br />
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PY - "LUNGS"</div>
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Seemingly out of the blue, here is introducing fast-rising London vocalist, songwriter and instrumentalist <b>PY </b>- real name <b>Jade Pybus</b> - with her very excellent "LUNGS" single. "Lungs" is the lead track from her recently released debut mixtape titled <i style="font-weight: bold;">Tripping On Wisdom </i>which features collaborations with some of the best burgeoning and most promising producers around right now like <b>Breton</b>, <b>Throwing Snow</b> and <b>Raffertie</b>. The incomparable <b>George FitzGerald</b> (Hotflush, Man Make Music) resides at the production helm of "Lungs" and what PY does with this hauntingly sensuous house-infused backdrop is nothing short of genius. Watch the <b>Simon Pellegrini</b>-directed video below...<br />
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<b>BEMYODA - "SHIMA YAM"</b></div>
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African Pop music or "Afrobeats" as it is commonly called in the mainstream has been one of the breakthrough music genres of 2012 with African artists <b>D'Banj </b>(G.O.O.D Music/Island Def Jam), <b>Wizkid </b>(Konvict Music) and <b>P-Square</b> (Universal) all being rewarded with major label recording or distribution deals as a result of the huge buzz they've been garnering. Amidst all that hoopla and everybody else making the same type of songs just to be the next "Afrobeats" sensation, we get blessed with the odd exception and that exception this time around is emerging Soul singer and songwriter <b>BEMYODA</b> from Nigeria. His debut single is titled "Shima Yam" and you really just need to press play below to understand my excitement about this artist and single...</div>
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<b>DYLAN REYNOLDS - "TIGHTROPE"</b></div>
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Here are a few fun facts about newcomer <b>DYLAN REYNOLDS</b> - he's from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and he is childhood friends with a certain Billboard chart-topping Independent artist that goes by the name of <b><i>Mac Miller</i></b>. Both of them were actually in a childhood band together called <b>The Funky Chickens </b>but of course this was way before the 20-year old singer, songwriter and musician moved from Pittsburgh to the UK to study at London Music School. "Tightrope" is his first single - as premièred by Complex - and it is off of his forthcoming début EP titled <i style="font-weight: bold;">Me & The Producer</i>. Celebrity cosigns aside, it is a pretty excellent song, laced with haunting drum and percussion patterns, lush bass guitar strings, well-crafted horn arrangements, compelling vocal dexterities and some quite poignant lyrics from Dylan. Listen below...</div>
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Truthfully we could easily carry on listing and talking about the incredible music we've been privileged to listen to in May but we do have to stop somewhere and the above six songs is exactly that point and although that technically means we've chosen not to talk about <b>Kitty Pryde's</b> "<a href="http://youtu.be/3SDYus7iKC8">Okay Cupid</a>" which I adore or "<a href="http://soundcloud.com/arts-crafts/cold-specks-winter-solstice">Winter Solstice</a>" by <b>Cold Specks</b> or Foxes' gripping new demo "Let Go For Tonight" among a select few, we shall consider this their honourable mentions...<br />
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As always, the comments section is open if you feel we missed a trick or two this month or if you feel we nailed our selection. Is there an amazing new song you heard in May that we may have overlooked, do let us know! If you enjoy the six songs we've selected from May to share with you, do let us know that too...<br />
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Until the Next Time...<br />
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Best New & Emerging Music: <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/04/best-new-emerging-music-april-2012.html">April 2012</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/04/best-new-emerging-music-week-12-13-2012.html">Week 12 & 13</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/03/best-new-emerging-music-week-10-11-2012.html">Week 10 & 11</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/03/best-new-emerging-music-week-8-week-9.html">Week 8 & 9</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-6-week-7.html">Week 6 & 7</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-4-week-5.html">Week 4 & 5</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-3-2012.html">Week 3</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-2-2012.html">Week 2</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-1-2012.html">Week 1</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-of-2011.html">2011</a></div>Ayo 'Ayohla' Adepoju (WPGM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/00305560267975113870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-64408599283665633162012-05-28T23:20:00.001+01:002012-05-28T23:34:56.200+01:00We Plug To You... Stuart Newman<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Mellow Indie Folk/Rock singer <b>Stuart Newman</b> is a largely self-taught musician. Starting out first with a piano and a guitar, he began writing songs and experimented with his home recording techniques during his University years. His music is reminiscent to the chilled-out but soulful Folk and acoustic music of America and he could be described as a miscellaneous mix of<b> Elvis Presley</b> and <b>Nirvana</b>. His musical influences range from <b>The Beatles</b>, <b>Simon and Garfunkel</b>, <b>Radiohead</b> to <b>Feeder</b>,<b> Queens of the Stone AgeGreen Day</b> and <b>My Chemical Romance</b>.
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<a name='more'></a>In 2010, Stuart made the transition from home recording to the recording studio to record the songs "Head Hurts", "Pandora" and "The Decade". It was later that year when he returned to the studio for the second time to record further material that "<b>Feel the Temperature Rising</b>" - a track which was played on <b>BBC Introducing: The South</b> in June 2011 and was featured as Brighton’s <b><i>Argus Download of the Week</i></b> - was recorded. Speaking of the move from home production to recording studio, he said, “<i>I went into the studio to move my creative ambitions forward, and I did. I wanted a sound that matched my progression as a songwriter and captured my progresses and hinted at things to come. In my opinion, I got that</i>”.</div>
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Stuart describes his music as acoustic, mellow indie Folk-Rock, but his talents span across a variety of musical genres. For example, "We’re Living In Another Dimension" is a track that could be comparable to 90’s Britpop band <b>Oasis</b>, whereas "Cry Wolf" is reminiscent of Country-Folk legend, <b>Johnny Cash</b>. Living up to its name, "Feel The Temperature Rising" has a Rock and Roll Bluesy feel to it and the riffs and chorus definitely remind the listener of a famous singer who sang a song with similar lyrics back in the 70’s - "Burning Love" by <b>Elvis</b> - The King of Rock and Roll himself!</div>
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Newman has famously been featured on <b>BBC 6 Music</b> and <b>BBC Introducing: The South</b>, after the success of his first acoustic-driven album, 2009's <b><i>Single But Defective </i></b>which birthed the track "Cry Wolf". "Cry Wolf" went on to receive massive airplay and support from the ever popular and revered <b>Tom Robinson</b> on his <b>BBC 6 Music </b>radio show. In September 2011, Stuart released "(We're Living In) Another Dimension" as his latest single and has spent the last few months working on his second EP <b><i>Bored of Idiot Chatter</i></b> which is a self-released record and was recorded and mixed at the <b>AudioBeach Studios</b> in Brighton, UK.<br />
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Recently on May 18, <b>Newman</b> released a limited run of the EP and this EP - which is offered in either physical CD or MP3 download formats - is currently available to buy or download for FREE on the singer’s website and it includes three of Stuart’s well-acclaimed tracks, "(We’re Living In) Another Dimension", "Feel The Temperature Rising" and "Cry Wolf" along with new cuts, "Head Hurts", "51st State" and an alternative version of "Another Dimension". You can listen to Stuart Newman’s music and buy or download the EP from his <a href="http://www.stuartnewmanmusic.com/">website</a> and on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/stuartnewmanofficial">YouTube</a>.</div>
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Keep Tabs on Stuart Newman: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/stuartnewmanmusic">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://www.twitter.com/stuartnewman">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.stuartnewmanmusic.com/">Website</a><br />
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Tim OsbourneTim Osbournehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13710519279608060540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-40327015087910681302012-05-21T17:53:00.000+01:002012-05-21T18:21:46.934+01:00We Plug To You... 2Face Idibia - Away & Beyond<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is a first for us here at WE PLUG. Today I have the ultimate pleasure of reviewing the album of a living legend and I honestly don't even feel I am worthy of it. This is why it has taken me two weeks to post this up but I think I have conquered my fear enough and without further ado, I would like to present to you the legendary <b>2Face Idibia </b>with his fifth studio album -<b> <i>Away & Beyond</i></b>.</div>
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Yes, you read that right, this is 2face Idibia's fifth studio album, remember I said this was a first? As you well know, what we typically do here is to showcase up and coming artists. So why are we doing this? For one, this is the best album out of Nigeria this year thus far and secondly, since a lot of you readers are not from Nigeria, this will serve as an introduction to 2Face Idibia for many of you. Lastly, because it is only right that we appreciate such a phenomenal artist while he is alive and still doing his thing. I am 25 years old and I have been listening to 2Face since I was in High School and no, I am not trying to call him old, I am just acknowledging the fact that he has been putting in work since he was just a young man himself. Lets share a bit of background on Mr. Idibia, shall we?</div>
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<b>2Face</b> - sometimes spelt as <b>TuFace </b>- started his musical journey with friends <b>Blackface</b> and <b>Fazee </b>way back in 1997 as the now defunct R & B group <b>Plantashun Boiz</b>. They released their debut album <b><i>Body and Soul</i></b> in 2000 with a sophomore album <b><i>Sold Out</i> </b>coming three years later. The group split in 2004 when lead singer <b>2Face</b> decided to embark on a solo career. He released his solo album that same year and the rest - as they say - is history.</div>
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Since then, <b>2baba</b> as he is also popularly known has been a force in not only the Nigerian music landscape but also across Africa and we are now seeing him begin to get international recognition. He is the most awarded/honored Nigerian artist of our time but possibly due to a very quiet nature, a somewhat sordid personal life and, dare I say, the lack of a great team supporting him, I still believe he is not given the respect and due owed him. He still manages to shine however, putting out an album without any noticeable PR/marketing and still have it be the most talked about album in the last two weeks. I have not read or heard one bad thing about <b><i>Away and Beyond</i></b>. But why don't I let you listen for yourself?</div>
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We have to start from the very first song on the album and that's "<b>Higher (Spiritual Healing)</b>" which kicks off with some lovely Punjabi drum patterns and harmonies that capture your attention immediately. He talks about freedom, over coming life's personal mountains, righteousness, forgiveness and love all on this song. If you must know one thing about <b>2Face</b>, it is that he is very passionate about his country and about being the person you can be despite it all. You will never hear him talking about "beef" and/or undermining anyone. In more ways than one, you could call him the perfect role model. He rides the heavy drum-backed milieu and Reggae-influenced groove o so well on this song and it makes for a great opener that you're eagerly looking forward to the rest of the album after listening to "Higher (Spiritual Healing)"...</div>
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15/10 - that's how I'd rate the production on the song you just heard which is titled "<b>Omo T'osan</b>". I love the synth arrangements, drum machine and ethereal back drop that you hear all through this song. This is honestly like nothing I have ever heard from any artist out of Nigeria and it is exactly what impressed me the most about this album. <b>2Face</b> went beyond and stretched himself sonically and still did well to retain his sound, his "Africanism", if you will, without compromising the international appeal of this album. This album is largely a Soul album and this song is as soulful as they come and on this, he is just talking to the girl of his fantasy.</div>
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I'm deliberately skipping a favourite song of mine "<b>Bother You</b>" which features Nigerian rapper <b>Terry The Rapman </b>so that you might hear the range of sounds that <b>2face</b> encompasses on this <i><b>Away & Beyond </b></i>album. The song you've just heard is called "<b>Spell Bound</b>", forget the subject of the song which is again a woman (he sure does love his women) and focus on that sound for a second - a perfect mix of Reggae, Hip Hop and Soul. This song could be played in any country anywhere on this earth and it will certainly get people vibing and just to show how diverse he is, on the very next song "<b>Steady Steady</b>", you hear a perfect mix of Electronic and Afrobeats music. I know you have to listen to this yourself to believe what I'm trying to tell you and because words do not adequately express the brilliance you hear on both songs, I think I'm just going to let you listen for yourself... </div>
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I'll skip another lovely song in "<b>Dance In The Rain</b>" which is your trademark uptempo soulful song with kick ass drum arrangements upon which he encourages you again to stay positive, leave all your worries behind, appreciate the flowers and the wonder that is the world we live in. On the next track "<b>In Your Eyes</b>", you hear a beautifully melodious piano backdrop, upon which 2Face is probably the most soulful you will ever hear him and when the drums and shekere (listen carefully) are excellently introduced, you will almost go mental. If you still don't agree that this is probably the most brilliant artist we have in Nigeria, you have to listen to him on "<b>Freedom Is Life</b>" as he goes straight "Hip-Hop" over this insane drum pattern and still speak his native tongue...</div>
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At this point, I really want to share the entire album with you but you need to go buy the album and this goes without saying because this will be a classic album, mark my words. You will bring out this album 10 years from now and vibe to it still. You will want to play the next track "<b>Rainbow</b>" and reminisce on an old flame or when you had to beg your current partner to come back to you and promise him/her all your love; you will want to play "<b>Dance Floor</b>" and try not to hurt yourself when you get up to dance like you did years back. But before I go, let me share this last one with you.</div>
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That was "<b>Keep On Pushing</b>" and I have nothing to add except for you to stop reading right now enough to dance to this jam, buy the album, come back and finish reading. 2Face ends the <b><i>Away & Beyond</i></b> on a high note too - following the energetic "Keep On Pushing" with "Ihe Neme" which is probably my personal favourite on the album, "O.N.D (Omo No Dulling)" which features new Nigerian rapper <b>Dammy Krane</b>, "Bad Man, Bad Girl" which features emerging R&B singer <b>Becca</b> and the album's last track "Chemical Reaction" which features another popular Nigerian artist in <b>Naeto C - </b>ending this excellent album with songs that make you move.</div>
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That's it guys, a whole lot of grandiose words, just to tell you to go buy this album. <b>2Face Idibia</b> outdoes himself on Away & Beyond and surpasses what I thought was a great album in 2010's <b><i>The Unstoppable</i></b> to deliver this amazing new album. With stellar production and a huge versatility of sounds, topping this album will be a task that many artists will fail at this year. As it should be!</div>
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Purchase: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/away-and-beyond/id524405235" target="_blank">2Face Idibia - Away and Beyond (iTunes)</a> //<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Away-and-Beyond/dp/B007ZQ3072" target="_blank"> Away and Beyond (Amazon)</a></div>
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Keep Tabs on 2Face Idibia: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/2faceofficial" target="_blank">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/real2faceidibia" target="_blank">Twitter</a> </div>
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Till Next Time, </div>
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Peace, Love and Good Music</div>
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Neefemi</div>
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<br /></div>Nee Fe Mihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00770543533340729142noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-39222532800983663412012-05-14T16:17:00.001+01:002012-05-14T16:23:58.683+01:00We Plug To You... The Manic Shine<div style="text-align: justify;">
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British Alternative Rock quartet <b>The Manic Shine</b> are celebrating the success of their video release for their new single, "My Woman (I Love Nothing About You)" after it was released on April 6, 2012.
The band's latest single and video release comes just a few weeks after the band released their phenomenal debut album, <b><i>Blindsider, </i></b>which has proved immensely popular with fans and critics alike. The record was released in March via UK-based indie label <b>The Animal Farm </b>who had previously signed the band in November of last year after being involved in the release of The Manic Shine's previously released self-titled debut EP.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>The Manic Shine’s music "<i>intertwines blues, modern rock and electronica into a hard hitting, electric-eclectic concoction</i>" which can be comparable to the likes of <b>Nine Inch Nails</b> and <b>30 Seconds to Mars’</b> <b><i>This Is War</i></b> album. In 2010, the band released their début single "Pretend" with massive support from <b>NME</b>, <b>BBC Introducing</b> and <b>Amazing Radio</b> and airplay on over twenty radio stations worldwide with <b>Amazing Radio</b> saying about the band, “<i>they certainly know their way around a power rock-riff when they hear one</i>” while their recently released début album <b><i>Blindsider</i></b> has already garnered plaudits from the likes of <b>Bring The Noise</b>, <b>AltSounds</b>, <b>Time Out</b> and <b>Entertainment Focus</b> which gave the album an impressive 4/5 rating.</div>
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The 4-piece band consists of lead singer and guitarist <b>Ozzie Rodgers</b>, bassist <b>James Hutchinson</b>, <b>Orren Karp </b>(Guitar + Backing Vocals), and drummer <b>Tamir Karp</b>, who holds a degree in <b>Popular Music Performance</b>. They label their genre as “metamorphic rock” which they describe as "<i>progressive rock but not prog, indie stylings but no skinny jeans</i>" and with varying musical influences from <b>John Mayer </b>to <b>Counting Crows</b> to <b>Jimi Hendrix</b> and <b>Led Zeppelin</b>, <b>ACDC</b> and <b>Rage Against the Machine</b> between all four members, The Manic Shine showcase that wide-ranging pallet for music excellently on their own records.<br />
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A lot of musical knowledge and experience is shared between <b>The Manic Shine</b> as all four members are graduates of some sort of music study according to the bands biography and it is evident that it is this knowledge and expertise that gives the band that edge to experiment with their music, unlike so many other new and young bands who are too frightened to take a risk and blend different music genres together. <b>The Manic Shine</b> do not only combine music genres, but they also mix opposing cultures.<br />
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Brothers, <b>Orren</b> and <b>Tamir</b> were born in Israel to a Scottish mother and an Israeli father while <b>Ozzie</b> was raised in Dubai by his Syrian mother and his English-Italian-Hungarian father but the deeply rooted animosities between Israel and Syria have not deterred the band from coming together and thriving. <b>The Manic Shine</b> have embraced these differences and shown that they can put their cultural differences aside in order to make some pretty amazing ‘cataclysmic’ music. It is individuals like these that define Britain as a multi-cultural society and it is bands like <b>The Manic Shine</b> that make British music exceptional.</div>
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The Manic Shine recently finished their first Blindsider tour of the UK in March with sold-out concerts in London, Ipswich, Newcastle, Berwick, Kelso and Edinburgh among others and they have scheduled another 19-date UK Summer tour to kick off in June. The band have also just earned an endorsement deal with <b>Dr. Martens</b> and played an exclusive gig at the shoe brand's <b>Westfield City Stratford</b> store in London last month.</div>
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You can listen to the band’s debut album <i style="font-weight: bold;">Blindsider </i><a href="http://soundcloud.com/the-manic-shine/sets/blindsider/">HERE</a>. It is also available to buy <a href="http://themanicshine.bigcartel.com/">HERE</a>.</div>
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Keep Tabs on The Manic Shine: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/themanicshine">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://www.twitter.com/themanicshine">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.themanicshine.com/">Website</a></div>
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Tim Osbourne</div>Tim Osbournehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13710519279608060540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-3355590892364566632012-05-08T20:53:00.001+01:002012-05-08T20:56:45.803+01:00We Plug To You... Yuna - Yuna (Album Review)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The beautiful <b>YUNA</b> has finally released her self-titled US debut album! First off all, I have to apologise for having slept on this album for quite a bit. I received this album a good week and a half ago but only listened to it about four days ago and no lie, it has been all I’ve listened to since then.
The 25-year old Malaysian singer, songwriter and musician came on our radar last year with her US-released <b><i>Decorate</i></b> EP after signing to the <b>FADER</b> label. She quickly caught the attention of critics and fans alike across a wide spectrum with her beautiful music and heart felt lyrics.<br />
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<b>Yunalis Zarai</b> aka Yuna picked up a guitar and started writing at the age of 19 while in law school. She later went on to win a bevy of Malaysian music awards like the <i style="font-weight: bold;">Malaysian Music Industry Awards</i>, <i style="font-weight: bold;">Champion Of Songs Awards </i>and <b><i>Most Popular Artist Awards</i></b> after releasing her self-titled EP which featured the hugely successful single "Deeper Conversation". That was one of the first songs I heard from <b>Yuna</b> and I have to say, it was a breath of fresh air, simply beautiful! Yes, I realize that I keep using the word beautiful but its hard to call it anything else or perhaps, my ability to use words to paint a picture are seriously failing me right now! </div>
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Talking about the texture of her voice, it's not the most amazing voice you've heard but somehow it's like the most perfect voice you've ever heard if that makes sense. I’m going to go over the ledge a bit here and say it sounds like the wind singing to you. A voice so soft and easy to listen to that it literally makes you stop whatever you’re doing and really just connect with what it is, those vocals are saying. She sounds like a slightly more awake version of <b>Corrine Bailey Rae </b>although not as rough though - a bit smoother round the edges, more refined almost. </div>
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It’s funny because as I was doing a little bit of research on her background and I've hardly seen anyone talk about just her voice - it's almost like you wouldn't separate her voice from the music. The first EP I heard from her was hugely acoustic and I remember how (stand) still everything went the minute "<b>Deeper Conversation</b>" came on! It's almost like her vocals are coming from far away but right here at the same time, like magic really!
OK enough of my poor attempts at describing her voice, let’s just get stuck into the music!</div>
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"<b>Fading Flower</b>" is the first song I heard off of the <b><i>Yuna</i></b> album and I played it three times before moving on to the rest of the album. If I had to describe Yuna’s sound I’d say it was a great mix of pop, folk and alternative, everything in fantastic portions to create a really good blend of music. The first thing this song makes you do is move your head and snap your fingers to the rhythm of the guitar and the drums, trust me, it’s involuntary! And though the song has already got you moving, you still can’t make your mind up on whether you’re really mad about it but then the chorus comes in and sweeps away any doubts you might have had! This a brilliant song for a ‘<i>I’m going to pretend I’m in a music video and use my hairbrush as a microphone while in my PJs</i>’ kinda moment and what's more, the lyrics are so good and uplifting! It’s about seeing an oppression, be it a person or thing, for who/what it really is and deciding not to let it get you down anymore. It is an amazing song and my favourite from the album, have a listen below.</div>
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The <b>Andre Harris</b>-produced "<b>Stay</b>" is another brilliant song on <b><i>Yuna</i></b> which is both well written with meaningful lyrics and sonically excellent to match. Over bass guitars, commanding drums and an atmospheric backing harmonies, <b>Yuna</b> sounds just like <b>Corrine Bailey Rae</b> on this but her voice does has a rougher texture than usual which gives "Stay" an edgier outcome and the way her voice effortlessly moves in and out of those soft soprano notes just really does it for me. Lyrically, the song speaks about laying down the rules for your partner and letting them know that you will leave if things in the relationship don't change. What I love most about the way the song is written is that there isn’t a malicious or bitter undertone to what she sings. It's a very calm and controlled delivery despite the content of the message. You don’t always have to scream and lose your marbles to get a serious message heard and she shows us this in the song.</div>
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I cannot do this review without plugging this next song, I just cannot! "<b>Decorate</b>" is a sweet, touching and excellently written song about wanting someone to come back to you even though you know they’re no good for you and probably won’t be coming back. Produced by <b>Chris Blade</b> and laced with slow building acoustic guitar, lush percussion drums and a fitting string arrangement, this is a huge contrast to "Stay" where she was singing about making a decision to leave a relationship. I guess its different when you’re on the other side and the one being left. It’s great to see her vulnerable side and it's even easier to relate to what she sings about here - not being able to let go and truly move on. “<i>I decorate my house with things you like just case show up…</i>”</div>
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And the last song I will be plugging to you is "Live Your Life". This masterpiece of a song was produced by none other than <b>N.E.R.D’s</b> <b>Pharell Williams</b> and it is absolutely candy for the soul! Such an upbeat and uplifting sound, the arrangement of the song is genius with every sound looping into another and never leaving a dull moment in the song. The melody isn’t as simple as on some of her other songs but it is just as easy to listen to and enjoy. Again, the lyrics in this song cannot be faulted, simple but hits home! Have a listen!<br />
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Yuna is definitely an artist that understands and knows how to use music in a way that showcases her best talents. Apart from her well written lyrics and infectious melodies, it is easy to recognise her genuine love for music and simplicity. She is a definitely a welcome change in a time where we really have to keep on asking ourselves if what we hear can still be called music. Her calm and demure nature is reflected in her music and it really gives the album an overall personal touch with just enough variety to keep you interested but not enough to throw off the general flow of it all. I look forward to her next album already but till then in the words of Yuna, "<i>find your light, don’t hide from who you are and rise before you fall and hope for something more</i>".</div>
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Purchase: <a href="http://itun.es/iPW6Vh">Yuna - Yuna Album (iTunes)</a></div>
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Peace and Love. </div>
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Jade Oyatz
</div>Jade Oyatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05079929511760188440noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-20525522383569049762012-05-08T16:46:00.003+01:002012-05-08T16:54:06.901+01:00We Plug To You... Lydia Baylis<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<b>Lydia Baylis</b> is a superb rarity. Having been compared to natural beauties such as <b>Rosamund Pyke</b> and <b>Christie Brinkley </b>and admired for her looks by dazzling American actress, <b>Lauren Bacall</b>, Lydia could have easily had a successful career in modelling. However the 22-year-old - who was born in Aldershot, Hampshire, UK - has surprisingly enough taken to a solo career in music and song writing instead, especially as there is no history of musical talent anywhere in Lydia’s family history.<br />
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Lydia comes from a strong line of military ancestry; both of her grandfathers were in the <b>Welsh Guards </b>and took part in the <b><i>Liberation of Brussels</i></b> in 1944 while Lydia’s father and uncle were on the Royal Navy landing ship, <b><i>Sir Galahad </i></b>when it was destroyed during the <b>Falklands War </b>in the summer of 1982. This may be one factor why Lydia supports British troops through her music, saying "<i>the politics of why the British are fighting in Afghanistan is not my concern, but the on-going support of our forces and their families certainly is</i>".</div>
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Already being compared to the likes of <b>Dido</b>, <b>Carly Simon</b>, and <b>Marianne Faithful</b> for her singing - her voice also has twinges of the 2012 <b>BRIT Award</b> <b><i>International Breakthrough Act</i></b> Winner, <b>Lana Del Rey</b> - Lydia's music has a mellow, chilled vibe, and her soulful voice is deeply touching. "Streets of Gold" which you can listen to above has a charming Country and Western feel to it with Baylis' gentle and soothing vocals backed by perfectly complementing backing vocals and soft and deft guitar arrangements.<br />
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Her début single and personal homage to her early musical influences such as <b>David Bowie</b>, <b>Velvet Underground</b> and <b>Van Morrison</b>, "Starman" is another stand out song from <b>Lydia Baylis</b> about "if you ever felt like the last one left". She describes the song as having "<i>an element of The Litte Prince, a touch of the fairytale of a knight in shining armour in the form of a Starman from outside our 'world' to take you away</i>". It has a beautiful piano-led milieu - sonically can be likened to <b>Christina Perry's</b> "The Lonely and A Thousand Years" somewhat - which is accompanied by spaced out drum patterns and a captivating string arrangement that just brings the song full circle in superb fashion.</div>
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Lydia’s latest single, "Autumn Soil" is a beautifully sung Country/Folk song, heavy with soulful lyrics and religious connotations such as, “<i>and oh the land outside is quiet, to watch the rain baptize the road, full and heavy as the autumn soil, I am waiting to be found</i>". Backed excellently by lush acoustic guitars, double bass arrangements and the softest of drum patterns, "Autumn Soil" sums up some of what is captivating about Lydia Baylis - deft, soft, gentle, welcoming and compelling. Watch the visuals for the new single below:</div>
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Lydia is currently working with a number of well renowned music industry professionals to launch her into the next phase in her music career . These include the likes of Ian Pickering (<b>Natalie Imbruglia</b>), writer/producer Paul Statham (<b>Dido</b>, <b>Kylie Minogue </b>and <b>Simple Minds</b>), engineer and sound mixer Richard Wilkinson (<b>Adele</b>, <b>Amy Winehouse </b>and <b>The Arctic Monkeys</b>), New York-based label and production team, <b>Crispin Thump</b> which is run by <b>Augustus Skinner </b>(<b>EMF</b>, <b>Neneh Cherry</b>, and <b>Sneaker Pimps</b>) and TV and film composer <b>Ronan Coleman</b> (<b>Last Days On Earth</b>, <b>Faraway</b>, <b>Up Close </b>and <b>Global Nomad</b>).</div>
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Now based in London, Lydia is being managed by <b>White Tiger Management </b>and with an array of impressive gigs already under her belt in 2012 including the recently concluded <b><i>Camden Crawl</i></b> weekend, three excellent shows at <b>The Troubadour</b> and one at the <b>Bedford</b> in February, Lydia is definitely making a huge splash on the London performance circuit. Her next gig is the <b><i>Soldier Challenge/Army Benevolent Fund</i></b> concert at London, Waterloo on May 19.<br />
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Donations from the sale of her single "Starman" are going towards the <b><i>Welsh Guard Afghan Appeal </i></b>charity. Click <a href="http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LydiaBaylis">HERE</a> for more information.<br />
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Keep Tabs on Lydia Baylis: <a href="http://facebook.com/lydiabaylis">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://www.soundcloud.com/lydiabaylis">Soundcloud</a> // <a href="http://www.twitter.com/lydiabaylis">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.lydiabaylis.com/">Website</a></div>
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Tim Osbourne</div>Tim Osbournehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13710519279608060540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-26677164765497320162012-04-30T20:39:00.001+01:002012-04-30T20:39:51.069+01:00The Best NEW & EMERGING Music - April 2012<div style="text-align: justify;">
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April has been an eventful month for New and Emerging Music this year and that is putting it mildly - our long list of songs to choose our favourites from seemed never ending. While its crazy to even think that a good four weeks have come and gone since the last time we shared our <a href="http://wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music"><b><i>Best New Music</i></b></a> with you, those four weeks have come accompanied with some pretty amazing music thankfully. The month of April - week FOURTEEN (02/04/12 - 08/04/12) all the way through to week SEVENTEEN (23/04/12) - (29/04/12) of 2012 - has been blessed with at least one gem of a record in <b>Hip-Hop</b>, <b>Afrobeats</b>, <b>Indie</b>, <b>Pop</b>, <b>R&B</b> and everything in between. Here are our favourite picks as always...<br />
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<b>KENDRICK LAMAR + DR. DRE - "THE RECIPE"</b></div>
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Fast-rising West Coast Hip-Hop artist <b>KENDRICK LAMAR</b> kicked off the month with "<b>The Recipe</b>", one of the Hip-Hop singles of 2012 so far. Featuring West Coast Hip-Hop legend <b>Dr. Dre</b>, produced by <b>Scoop DeVille</b> and superbly sampling <b>Twin Sister</b>'s "Meet The Frownies", "<b>The Recipe</b>" is Lamar's first official single from his hugely anticipated major label debut album <b><i>Good Kid In A Mad City</i></b> which is due out later in the year via Dre's <b>Aftermath/Interscope </b>imprint. Originally titled "Women, Weed & Weather", "The Recipe" sees Lamar is fine form as he pays homage to his home town California and the city's "High life" in the gritty and compelling lyrical style that we've now become accustomed to from Lamar. He does this without the need or reason to offer us watered-down rap verses as has been customary among rappers who make that transition from independent/underground to major label. Listen below:</div>
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<b>ALABAMA SHAKES - "HOLD ON"</b></div>
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"<b>Hold On</b>", the simple, yearning and compellingly poignant Southern Rock opus from one the best new bands of 2012, <b>ALABAMA SHAKES</b> is not necessarily a new song and the band's day one fans will be the first to tell you this but the visuals for the single were released at the start of April to promote the band's début album <b><i>Boys & Girls</i></b> which hit shelves on April 10 via <b>ATO Records</b> and <b>Rough Trade</b>. After the huge buzz and hype that Alabama native <b>Brittany Howard</b> and her 4-piece caused at the 2012 <b><i>SXSW</i></b> Festival in Austin, Texas, the new visuals for "Hold On" didn't only get us excited for their album, it did well to remind those of us who had forgotten just how special this song is and how amazing Howard (Vocals, Guitar), Fogg (Guitar), Cockrell (Bass Guitar) and Johnson (Drums) really are -- no frills, no gimmicks, no pretences - just great music, captivating lyrics and hypnotic vocals and all beautifully crafted.</div>
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<b>FRIENDS - "MIND CONTROL"</b></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Manifest!</i></b> - the forthcoming début album from fast-rising Indie Pop band and <b><i>BBC Sound of 2012</i></b> nominees, <b>FRIENDS</b> is and has been for months, one of the most anticipated records of 2012. Scheduled to be released on June 4/5 via <b>Lucky Numbers</b> and <b>Fat Possum Records</b>, the album has certainly been buoyed by the band's two previously released singles, "Friend Crush" and "I'm His Girl". The anthemic "<b>Mind Control</b>" is the third single from the Brooklyn-based 5-piece band and first single from the forthcoming album. It surfaced earlier in April as the <b><i>Hottest Record in the World</i></b> on <b>Zane Lowe's</b> <b>BBC Radio 1</b> show and for good reason too. Heavy on synths, super bass and world music-esque percussions, "Mind Control" is a Disco/Funk opus and very trademark of the band's "Weird Pop" sound which has won them plaudits and critical acclaim. Listen below:</span><br />
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<b>BRYMO - "GOOD MORNING"</b></div>
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As one of the definite breakthrough genres of 2012, Afrobeats music continues to make waves on the global music landscape and the month of April has gone a long way in making sure the genre is not just a flash in the pan with <b>G.O.O.D Music</b>'s <b>D'banj</b> making exploits in the UK securing a deal with <b>Mercury Records UK</b> and <b>Akon</b> signing <b>Wizkid</b> to his Konvict Music imprint. The simple fact that we had about four Afrobeats songs on our long list for this <b><i><a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music">Best New Music</a></i></b> instalment goes to show the huge potential and global reach the genre possesses. In the end, "Good Morning" the brand new single from <b>Chocolate City's</b> fast-rising crooner <b>BRYMO</b> slightly edged it for us - produced by prolific in-house producer <b>Jesse Jagz</b>, this laid-back Afrobeats opus sees <b>Brymo</b> in his finest form and finally bringing forth the excellence we first saw in him on the hook of the massive hit "Oleku". Listen below:<br />
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<b>JAVEON McCARTHY - "PRECIOUS"</b></div>
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Reminiscent of <b>Timbaland's</b> best R&B work with the likes of <b>Aaliyah</b> and <b>Ginuwine</b>, "Precious", the brand new single from emerging Bristol Singer/Songwriter <b>JAVEON McCARTHY</b> - who you might recognize from <b>L-Vis1990's</b> "Lost In Love" and <b>Joker's</b> "Back In The Days" - is a piece of 90's R&B influenced gold. Produced by <b>Two Inch Punch</b> who is superbly channelling <b>Timbaland</b> circa late 90's/early 00's, featured already by the likes of Complex, Pitchfork and Abeano among others and set to be released by <b>PMR Records</b> on June 4, "Precious" sees McCarthy in superb fashion as he showcases his brilliantly understated and heartfelt vocals over one of the most exciting R&B musical milieus I've heard this year. Listen below:<br />
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<b>ALUNAGEORGE - "JUST A TOUCH"</b></div>
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I'm a huge fan of British Genre-fusing Pop duo <b>ALUNAGEORGE</b>! Vocalist <b>Aluna Francis</b> and producer <b>George Reid</b> are simply amazing together and can do wrong in my eyes! Their latest single "<b>Just A Touch</b>" which is off of the duo's recently released début 3-track EP <b><i>You Know You Like It</i></b> on <b>Tri Angle Records</b> is laced with distorted electronic beats, a seriously dope head bopping bassline, layered handclaps, a futuristic Pop sound combined with a lush throwback R&B feel to it over which Aluna lays down her alluringly beautiful vocals. Listen below:<br />
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Now that was a tasking challenge, how in Heaven's name have we managed to four weeks of some pretty amazing new and emerging music into just five picks is beyond us but we have and these five picks are exceptional in every way. We know that we may/will have missed some of your favourites of the month and do let us know in the C-section of course and we'll try not to kick ourselves quite hard when you show us what we've missed...<br />
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Until the Next Time...<br />
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Best New & Emerging Music: <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/04/best-new-emerging-music-week-12-13-2012.html">Week 12 & 13</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/03/best-new-emerging-music-week-10-11-2012.html">Week 10 & 11</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/03/best-new-emerging-music-week-8-week-9.html">Week 8 & 9</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-6-week-7.html">Week 6 & 7</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-4-week-5.html">Week 4 & 5</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-3-2012.html">Week 3</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-2-2012.html">Week 2</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-1-2012.html">Week 1</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-of-2011.html">2011</a></div>
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</div>Ayo 'Ayohla' Adepoju (WPGM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/00305560267975113870noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-7250127078117923362012-04-30T14:00:00.001+01:002012-04-30T14:05:56.525+01:00We Plug To You... PJ Morton - Follow My First Mind EP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We plug to you singer, songwriter and musician <b>PJ Morton</b> with his most recent body of work, the 7 track EP titled <b><i>Follow My First Mind (FMFM)</i></b>. PJ Morton recalls his musical upbringing in New Orleans where he was born and raised as having greatly influenced his musical style and allowed his talents to be early nurtured and developed. His first dive into music was with a band called <b>Freestyle Nation</b> which started right after Morton graduated from college. Over the years, the band went on to receive minimal recognition, however during this time Morton's stock as a songwriter/producer was beginning to rise in the industry and in no time, he already had a Grammy Award to his name.<br />
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The award was for his song writing and production credits on <b>India Arie</b>’s track "<b>Interested</b>". Following this, PJ went on to win <b>Dove</b> and <b>Stellar</b> awards as well for his songwriting and production dexterities. Collaborating with Gospel artist <b>DeWayne Woods</b> on the track "<b>Let Go, Let God</b>" saw Morton’s career sky rocket even further. Morton also teamed up with Academy Award-winning composer <b>AR Rahman</b> (<b>Slumdog Millionaire</b>) to work on the song "<b>Saina</b>" off the soundtrack to the 2009 summer flick <b><i>Couples Retreat</i></b> which features <b>Vince Vaughn</b>.</div>
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Morton coined the phrase 'soulful pop' to describe his approach to music. I particularly like how he describes his sound as he states, <i>“it’s sweet and sour, it’s chicken and waffles. It’s a hip hop bass line meshed with symphonies of stringed instruments, synthetic sounds intermingling with real instrumentation"</i>. He lists his influences to be world class pop icons - <b>The Beatles</b> and <b>James Taylor</b> - to soulful legends like <b>Stevie Wonder</b> and <b>Donny Hathaway</b>. Today, Morton is the keyboardist/vocalist for the band <b>Maroon 5</b> and at the same time <b>Young Money</b>’s (YMCMB) most recent signed solo act.</div>
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The first track I plug is the ‘heavily’ Organ-influenced track "<b>Heavy</b>" which features fellow <b>Maroon 5</b> band mate,<b> </b><b>Adam Levine</b>. We hear PJ Morton turn on his funk side on this track which we can somewhat attribute to being influenced by his guest as "Heavy" is composed similarly to sounds of Maroon 5. The song instrumentally features a head bopping rhythm accompanied by an electric guitar arrangement that can heard throughout the track. This is probably the most upbeat song on the whole EP, not to say the other songs aren’t as good as this one.</div>
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Showing the slow and sultry side of <b>PJ Morton</b> on the <b><i>Follow My First Mind</i></b> EP is the track "<b>Built For Love</b>". I most especially like how this track starts out, emulating sounds straight out of the 80s with a Jazz feel to it. The song is a true and well conveyed love story depicting how both partners are "<i>built for love</i>" professing their feelings for one another and willingness to work through any issues. Sonically - with a milieu of gentle drums, soft keyboards and guitars - and lyrically the song resonates simplicity, however with songstress <b>Jazmine Sullivan</b> lending her breathtaking vocals on the song, it does make for one of the worthy R&B duets on this EP.</div>
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I guess having a project without featuring a member of your new label would be all kinds of wrong and so, on the track "<b>Lover</b>", PJ Morton turns on the more commercial sounding side of himself with some help from label boss <b>Lil Wayne</b>. If nothing, the chorus - as repetitive as it gets - is catchy and sticks with you even after the song stops playing. <b>Lil Wayne</b> jumps in on the third verse in his true classic style adding his southern rap kick to the R&B track.</div>
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Morton isn’t exactly new to the game yet his name is not that well known in the industry. One example would be his last solo effort, his fourth album titled <b><i>Walk Alone</i></b>. The album was acclaimed critically but did not receive enough commercial buzz. I do however suspect all that is going to change after now being associated with two of the top teams in the industry. What drew me to listen to <b>PJ Morton</b> was actually the cover of his EP. And after finding out about his two most recent affiliations, I was intrigued to find out what could come off this eccentric artist. From R&B to Soul to Funk, <b>PJ Morton</b> can do it all. The other tracks off the EP are great listens as well and I definitely recommend <i><b>Follow My First Mind</b></i> to anyone. Click the download link below for your free copy and get to listening.
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Download: <a href="http://www.pjmortononline.com/">PJ Morton - Follow My First Mind (FMFM)</a></div>
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Keep Tabs on PJ Morton: <a href="http://www.pjmortononline.com/">Website</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thepjmorton">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/PJMORTON">Twitter</a></div>
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TemiY</div>TemiYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09429330662526760057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-6936641009049223902012-04-27T15:00:00.000+01:002012-04-27T15:11:44.591+01:00We Plug To You... Dry the River<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Fast-rising eclectic Folk band <b>Dry the River</b> - consisting of <b>Peter Liddle</b> (Lead Vocals, Guitar), <b>Matthew Taylor</b> (Guitar), <b>Will Harvey</b> (Violin), <b>Scott Taylor</b> (Bass Guitar) and <b>Jon Warren</b> (Drums) - are not your typical <b>Mumford and Sons</b> kind of folk-band even though everyone wants to call them "<i>the next Mumford and Sons</i>". Each member of the band has previously played in Hardcore Rock and Post-Punk bands and these elements shine through on Dry the River’s music, song lyrics and weirdly enough, the band members’ love of tattoos (uncanny for a Folk band surely).<br />
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Their latest single "New Ceremony" for example, shows great elements of Folk music with its acoustic guitar patterns and melancholic lyrics but the injection of heavy drums, electric guitar and lush violin arrangements lift up the record considerably and accompanied by Liddle's captivating vocals, give the song a Indie Rock edge.<br />
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The band would class themselves as ‘Emo-Folk' and as vocalist <b>Peter Liddle</b> explains; “<i>Emo has become a term of derision, but originally it meant emotive hardcore. The underlying idea is cool: although it’s important to play with passion, I believe that there should be an emotional underpinning to all music and all performance</i>". Dry the River’s music could well be described as an eclectic cross between the Foo Fighters and Queen but there's just something more to this five piece. The new single "New Ceremony" is a little softer than their well-known track, "The Chambers and The Valves" which was released in February along with a rather quirky and eccentric video to accompany it.<br />
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The band's other previously released song "Weights and Measures" from <b><i>Shallow Bed</i></b> has a very holy choristic feel to it and is a little like Charlie Simpson’s solo single "Hold On". Starting off in typical Folk music territory backed by a solemn acoustic guitar arrangement and pastoral harmonies, "Weights & Measures" expands on itself in beautiful slow building fashion with drum layers, strong electric guitar and excellent violin accompaniments.<br />
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The choristic and pastoral feel to <b>Dry the River's</b> music is not a coincidence, either. Born in Norway to British parents, Liddle’s father was an engineer in the oil-industry and this meant constant moving and shifting between different schools and although his parents were quietly religious, Liddle became fascinated by the iconography and language of the Roman Catholic Church at one of his many primary schools, where his voice was honed in the school choirs. “<i>I think I have a fixation with community and belonging... </i><i>Because that was something that I didn’t I have as a child</i>”, he explains. Religious imagery is apparent in many of <b>Dry the River’s</b> lyrics, especially in the songs "Bible Belt" and "Shaker Hymns" and Liddle explains this so, “<i>I think if you play with King James Bible vocabulary, it accesses a solemnity; something deep within people</i>”.<br />
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"<b>The Chamber & The Valves</b>" is another example of how well <b>Dry the River</b> execute this Folk/Rock fusion. Laced with Liddle's trademark choral vocals which superbly direct the song from start to end and an excellent musical milieu of lush string arrangements, commanding drum and guitar patterns, this song is as captivating sonically as it is lyrically. Perhaps this excellent fusion of Emo and Folk music combined with that Rock edge was a reason why the band was one of the acts to be short listed as a <b><i>BBC Sound of 2012</i></b> nominees.<br />
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Quite impressively, the band is currently embarking on a massive and extensive headline tour which sees them performing across Canada, the US, Europe, the UK and Ireland in 2012. After playing gigs in Montreal and Toronto at the end of March, the band headed south for a nine-city tour across the US which ended at the start of the month and are now back home concluding their UK tour of eighteen venues across the country before they say hello to the rest of Europe and head back off to the States in May for eight additional tour dates! Liddle and the rest of his quintet<b> </b>will also be playing at award-winning independent festival <b><i>2000 Trees </i></b>in Gloucestershire on 13 July and are continuing their existing course of headline performances with more tour dates and festivals over the Summer to culminate in another string of UK tour dates in October and November.<br />
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The London-based five-piece have also just released their latest single "<b>New Ceremony</b>" which is from their debut album, <b><i>Shallow Bed</i></b> (RCA Records) and have confirmed that "Deadheads" will be the B-side to the new single which was released on April 16 exclusively for <b><i>Record Store Day</i></b>.<br />
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The band's début album Shallow Bed is out NOW on RCA Records, purchase it <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/shallow-bed/id485306307">HERE (iTunes)</a></div>
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Keep Tabs on Dry the River: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drytheriver/">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://twitter.com/drytheriver">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.drytheriver.net/">Website</a><br />
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Tim Osbourne</div>Tim Osbournehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13710519279608060540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-22393844962251757852012-04-19T01:17:00.002+01:002012-04-19T01:19:23.904+01:00We Plug To You... Bonaventure<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Nashville-based Alternative Rock band <b>Bonaventure</b> is made up of <b>Dan Smyers</b> and <b>Andrew Albert</b>, both of whom are already well known in the music world to their respective fans - Andy is the lead singer of Pop-Punk band <b>Holiday Parade </b>while Dan is a successful solo singer and guitarist in his own right. The pair met up about a year and a half ago in Miami, Florida and after realising that they were both heading down the same path musically, began to explore and share a few song ideas between themselves over the internet. That path as well as the initial exploration and sharing of ideas eventually led to the formation of <b>Bonaventure</b> and both artists moving to Nashville, Tennessee - the city of such great songwriters as <b>Johnny Cash</b> and <b>Jimi Hendrix</b> - to create what they call "<i>Rock with a Southern flavour</i>".<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Their music is influenced by other Country music stars such as <b>Bob Dylan</b> and <b>Tom Petty</b> as well as rock legends such as <b>Bryan Adams</b>. Taking inspiration from these artists, Bonaventure create some pretty amazing music which can be described as a mellow middle between modern <b>Country</b> and energy-driven <b>Rock</b> music that centres around clever lyrics, honest song writing, lush acoustic guitar arrangements mixed in with a genuine Rock edge.
Their debut single “These Shoes” is an acoustic-based feel good song which sounds like something we should be listening to on a Summer road trip. The lyrics of which, are simple but clever analogies that create a very vivid imagery for the listener as pertaining to heartbreak or moving on: <i>“The view from the bottom of the well, down here it's cold as hell, it's true. I’m gonna make these shoes, take me far away from you"</i>. Those lyrics could also relate to the singers’ past endeavours and how they are moving on to their new project with <b>Bonaventure</b>.<br />
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"Home" - another of the band's signature songs - follows almost in similar fashion to "These Shoes" with its chilled Country influences, acoustic musicality and excellent song writing all on show. It is a lush nostalgic record that transports your body and soul to a rocking chair on a wooden porch on a warm Summer evening in Southern Tennessee with crickets humming all around you. On this song, both Dan and Albert sing and play beautifully about a couple or two friends being reunited... <i>"When I'm with you, I am home, so won't you please come in? Darling, please invite me in"</i>. <b>Bonaventure</b> have recently just released a brand new single (and accompanying visuals) titled "I Dare You". Featuring a more pronounced Rock sound with heavier guitar arrangements and commanding drum patterns, <b>Bonaventure</b> switch up their sound on "I Dare You" and show their versatility when it comes to making music. The recurring theme on all three songs remain how carefully-crafted and well-written these songs are as well as how beautifully Dan and Albert's vocals merge together and compliment one another.</div>
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Even though the band have recently been compared to the likes of <b>Kings of Leon</b> and artists like <b>Ryan Adams</b>, they are probably even more similar to indie bands such as <b>Mumford and Sons</b> and <b>The Fray </b>with also a striking similarity to <b>Fightstar</b> frontman and ex-<b>Busted</b> member <b>Charlie Simpson</b>. Dan and Andy haven’t forgotten their roots in 90's Pop/Rock either, they grew up on the likes of <b>Matchbox 20</b>, <b>Our Lady Peace</b>, and <b>Third Eye Blind</b>, and you can definitely hear these 90’s influences in their own music.<br />
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According to the band's EPK, the band is named after a street in Atlanta, Georgia called "Bonaventure Ave" but that hasn't stopped fans - who presume the band's name is derived from the medieval Italian Franciscan Saint and one of the greatest Doctors of the early Church, <b>St. Bonaventure</b>- from labelling the band as a Christian Rock band, a title that neither Dan nor Andy have publicly acknowledged or denied.</div>
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In a recent interview with <a href="http://pupfresh.com/">Pup Fresh</a>, both Andy and Dan attest to wanting to make great music for as long as the band lasts and wanting to take <b>Bonaventure</b> further than any other project they have previously been involved with. More importantly, the duo "<i>just want to write songs that we can really connect with, and not get sick of playing two years down the line</i>". Although no date has been set for their album release, Bonaventure are constantly demoing, writing and recording songs for the record and hopefully with the release of their new single "I Dare You", a full length album should not be too far away.<br />
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Purchase: Bonaventure - <a href="http://bit.ly/TheseShoes">"These Shoes"</a> // <a href="http://bit.ly/IDareYouiTunes">"I Dare You"</a> (iTunes)</div>
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Keep Tabs on Bonaventure: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/bonaventuremusic">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/Bonaventure">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.bonaventuremusic.com/">Website</a></div>
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Tim Osbourne</div>Tim Osbournehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13710519279608060540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-42076798042393407412012-04-09T16:05:00.001+01:002012-04-09T16:05:37.651+01:00The Best NEW & EMERGING Music - Week 12 & 13, 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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And JUST like that, the first quarter of the year is well and truly gone! 2012 is not waiting around for anybody it seems and as we draw ever closer and closer to the Summer time and all the music festivals that come with it, I hope we all have our tickets and Wellington boots ready! Our <b><i><a href="http://wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music">Best New Music</a></i></b> of the final two weeks of the first quarter range from UK Grime to Indie Pop to Brit Soul/R&B to Hip-Hop to Experimental so let's get right into it, shall we? Week TWELVE (19/03/12 - 25/03/12) and week THIRTEEN (26/03/12 - 01/04/12) of 2012 produced these entries into our <b><i><a href="http://wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music">Best New and Emerging Music</a></i></b> series...</div>
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Emerging British singer, songwriter and musician <b>AZEKEL</b> impressed us last year and made our <b><i><a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-of-2011.html">Best New & Emerging Music of 2011</a></i></b> with his one and only released track "New-Ish". He has now released a follow-up to that excellent song by way of this demo titled "<b>STUCK</b>" and can we just say, this is pretty amazing stuff from the young London native. Filled with heavy drum patterns, excellent keyboard chords, lush synths, rich vocals and those creatively distorted horns, "Stuck" is an excellent piece of progressive music accompanied by some very decent songwriting. My only question is, if this is only a "demo", I'm excited to think what a complete record from Azekel will sound like. Listen to "Stuck" below:</div>
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<b>SHADOW ON STARS - "WHEN IT BUILDS"</b></div>
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New Portland Indie band <b>SHADOW ON STARS</b> unveiled their début album at the back end of March and as we reported <a href="http://conversationsabouther.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/imusic-shadow-on-stars-shadow-on-stars.html">HERE</a>, their self-titled début album was a 13-track affair of well crafted Intelligent Pop music with brilliant New Wave and Punk elements. Selecting one song from the album to share with you on this instalment of our <b><i>Best New & Emerging Music</i></b> series proved to be a hard feat as the songs on <b><i>Shadow On Stars</i></b> are really really good. In the end, it came down to the energetically brilliant "When It Builds" or the superbly slow building "<a href="http://soundcloud.com/shadowsonstars/05-here">Here</a>" and we chose "When It Builds" when in all honesty, we could've chosen either song and the outcome would have been the same - <b>Shadow On Stars</b> is an exciting new band that you need to keep your eyes firmly on and their songs are pretty much amazing! Listen to "When it Builds" below:</div>
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<b>DOT ROTTEN - "OVERLOAD"</b></div>
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British Grime/Rap artist <b>DOT ROTTEN</b> scored the "<i><b>Hottest Record in the World</b></i>" accolade from the mighty <b>Zane Lowe</b> on his <b>BBC Radio One</b> show on Monday, March 26 with his brand new single titled "Overload" which is due for release on May 28 via Mercury/Universal. Produced by <b>TMS</b> and sampling the familiar sounds of <b>Robert Miles'</b> "Children", Dot Rotten's "Overload" is one hell of a monster of a record - emotional, heavy hitting and well crafted lyrics combined with an excellently intense musical milieu as provided for by veteran London production trio <b>TMS</b>. Listen below:<br />
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<b>JAI PAUL - "JASMINE (DEMO)"</b></div>
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The second "demo" to grace this new instalment of our <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> series seems well and truly overdue. <b>XL Recordings</b> enigmatic future Pop star <b>JAI PAUL</b> finally teases us with some brand new music titled "Jasmine". After the huge success and criitical acclaim of his debut single "BTSTU" which was released around this time last year, we waited and waited and waited for something new from Jai Paul BUT we got nothing - well not until now and can we just say that the wait was/is 100% worth it! "Jasmine" is a brilliant record laced with heavy drum patterns, Funk-infused electric guitars, hand claps and a lush distant falsetto. Listen below:<br />
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<b>RYE RYE - "BOOM BOOM"</b></div>
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21-year old Baltimore Dance/Hip-Hop artist and <b>M.I.A</b>-protege <b>RYE RYE</b> is prepping to release her hugely anticipated and long awaited début album titled <b><i>Go! Pop! Bang!</i></b> on May 15 via Interscope Records and just in time for Summer. Interpolating the <b>Vengaboy's</b> 1999 hit single "Boom Boom Boom Boom" to stellar effects, Rye Rye's latest single "Boom Boom" - from the forthcoming album - is an enjoyably catchy, witty and infectious Pop song that follows superbly in the same vein as her two previous singles - the <b>M.I.A</b>-featured "Sunshine" and the <b>Robyn</b>-assisted "Never Be Mine". Watch the perfectly fitting visuals for "Boom Boom" below:<br />
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And there you have it! Our FIVE picks of the <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> from the second half of March to complete the first quarter of 2012! See you on the next instalment and just in case you missed it, all of our previous Best New & Emerging Music instalments can be found below and as always, do leave your thoughts in the comments section underneath.</div>
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Until the Next Time...</div>
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Best New & Emerging Music: <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/03/best-new-emerging-music-week-10-11-2012.html">Week 10 & 11</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/03/best-new-emerging-music-week-8-week-9.html">Week 8 & 9</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-6-week-7.html">Week 6 & 7</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-4-week-5.html">Week 4 & 5</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-3-2012.html">Week 3</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-2-2012.html">Week 2</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-1-2012.html">Week 1</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-of-2011.html">2011</a></div>Ayo 'Ayohla' Adepoju (WPGM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/00305560267975113870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-17315965171692329202012-04-05T12:11:00.003+01:002012-04-05T12:11:51.812+01:00We Plug To You... Attention Thieves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We plug to you, unsigned Reading Rock band <b>Attention Thieves</b> with their debut EP <b><i>Look A Little Closer </i></b>which was released last week on Monday, March 26. Far from your generic guitar Rock band, Attention Thieves add many different layers and elements to what their sound is - from Progressive Rock to Punk to Post-Hardcore - and with fans and critics alike heaping praises on Attention Thieves and likening them to the likes of <b>The Police</b> and <b>Foo Fighters</b>, it will soon be very hard for your favourite mainstream radio station and the wider audience consciousness to overlook the anthemic and progressive Rock sound of <b>Attention Thieves.</b><br />
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Attention Thieves’ music is a unique mix of heavy guitar riffs, rocky basslines and a catcy Pop sensibility that can clearly be seen on "<b>You'll Be The First One</b>" with the vocals of frontman <b>Alex Green </b>excellently standing out as distinctively different from many Rock/Punk rock bands out there right now. The band can easily be compared to the likes of <b>You Me At Six</b> but the best way to describe them would be a cross between <b>Kids in Glass Houses</b> and "emo" band <b>Funeral For A Friend</b>, which is quite the contrast to the big Heavy Metal-core band that frontman Alex used to be a member of before Attention Thieves - <b>The Arusha Accord</b>. While The Arusha Accord currently take a break to work on other projects and prep their forthcoming and still untitled releases, Alex is hitting significant strides with <b>Attention Thieves</b>. </div>
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In June 2011, the band released the hugely impressive single "Can’t Say" which is also featured on this new EP . The guitar heavy attention grabbing single - recorded at Outhouse Studios in Berskhire with veteran musician and sound engineer <b>John Mitchell</b> (You Me At Six, Enter Shikari) - got expansive airplay on popular Rock station <b>XFM</b> among others and was the first piece of music to garner the band some well deserved recognition and a much bigger fan base outside of Reading. Sticking with a winning formula - as you do - the entire EP is produced by <b>John Mitchell</b> to stunningly great effect. </div>
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Vocalist/guitarist Alex and drummer Sim, knew each other at primary school and met bassist Ryan and guitarist Hag at secondary school, where they all played in different bands before eventually starting to play and perform together in late 2008. When asked how the name of the band ‘Attention Thieves’ came about, Alex said, <i>“to be honest, I wish that there was some cool story about how we came up with it; it's just a couple of words that we liked and sounded cool together. We needed a name. We had a gig coming up and pretty much just said, that'll do”</i>. As fate would have it, that name stuck and the band have been slowely and surely building a buzz around themselves, performing and playing at gigs around Reading and the UK since 2009. </div>
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Along with the release of their debut EP, <b>Attention Thieves</b> have big plans for 2012; they are touring again with fast-rising metal band, <b>ACODA</b>. The tour kicks of in Bromley, London on April 26 and ends in Northampton on May 5. The band are also playing the three-day <b>Redfest 2012</b> music festival at Robins Cook Farm in Surrey on July 20 along with the likes of <b>Young Guns</b>, <b>Natives</b>, <b>The King Blues</b>, <b>Deaf Havana </b>and <b>Kids in Glass Houses</b>. Attention Thieves’ debut EP, <b><i>Look A Little Closer</i></b> is out NOW - priced at £2.99 - and is available to buy from all the popular online retail stores. </div>
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Purchase: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/look-a-little-closer-ep/id507857752">Attention Thieves - Look A Little Closer EP (iTunes)</a></div>
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Keep Tabs on Attention Thieves: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AttentionThieves">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/atbanduk">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.youtube.com/attentionthieves">Youtube</a></div>
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Tim Osbourne</div>Tim Osbournehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13710519279608060540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-41139976044064787142012-04-03T17:45:00.002+01:002012-05-16T15:56:56.281+01:00We Plug To You... Professor Penguin - Planes (Album Review)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I really need to start making sure I keep up to date with the music on our sister blog, <b><i>Conversations</i></b> but you know how it is right? You get busy with school and work and with life, you just can't keep track of the updates and you miss out on some pretty amazing music. Case in point is this next band... You see, I came across this album yesterday while actioning the emails I had received over the last few days and I listened to it until I fell asleep last night. Beautiful music brought forth by London 9-piece band, <b>Professor Penguin</b>.</div>
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I am normally quick to judge an artist/group by their name and to say that I was shocked to hear such amazing sounds from this group of musicians who call themeselves <b>Professor Penguin</b> is a huge understatement. Of course, I then took to Google - as you do - and I find that we at <b><i>We Plug</i></b> are no strangers to the band. So without further ado, I have the ultimate pleasure of introducing to you, <b>Professor Penguin</b>, with their debut offering <b><i>Planes</i></b> which is set to be released on the 9th of April via Gentoo Recordings.</div>
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From its origins as Jonny Abraham's one man project, <b>Professor Penguin</b> has evolved into an exciting collective of young musicians who are enjoying great success on London's live music circuit and massive support from the likes of <b>BBC Radio 1</b>, <b>BBC 6 Music</b> and <b>XFM</b>. They are a well-oiled machine and everything from the first track to the the very last track on <i style="font-weight: bold;">Planes </i>supports this. With live guitars, bass, strings and lush drum patterns, they are able to create songs and make them appear to be orchestrated by a conductor with a fiddle and everything. It is quite frankly genius and very rich. </div>
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Interestingly, every song on this 10-track album begins with a "P". The first track on the album and the band's lead single is titled "Pilot", which I really love. The single is what garnered them so much media attention such that they have already been compared to the likes of <b>Bombay Bicycle Club</b> and <b>Bon Iver </b>BUT the first song I will be sharing with you is their second official single and my favorite song off of this album, it's called "Pirate".</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">"We're not so different you and me."</span></i></div>
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With such beautiful, heartfelt vocals and glorious harmonies driving this song and backed by lush acoustic guitar strings, it's really hard not to fall in love with "<b>Pirate</b>". Plus there is something about this song that makes it more than just your typical Indie/Folk song, there seems to be elements of Pop and Soul music that shine through on "Pirate" and these genre elements manage not to clash against one another. There is a B-side to the "Pirate" single titled "<b>Paper</b>" and unfortunately, it is not on the album but is also beautifully well done so let's just hear it, shall we?</div>
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It is common knowledge that simpler is on many occasions better and this is exactly what I think of when I hear this next song titled "Past" - the arrangement of soft guitar, keyboards and vocals combine together excellently to create what is simply a great record. On this song, Jonny sings sombrely about someone who seems unsure of what they want to do in their relationship, whether to come or to go or to "<i>go to come back</i>". We can all relate right? The almost ethereal 30-second instrumentation at the 1:17 minute mark is simply divine and certainly gives it a different dimension. Listen to "Past" below...</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">"It makes me think that you want to go to come back, not to go."</span></i></div>
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As there is a past, there is also a present and on "Present" - the next song on <b><i>Planes</i></b> and one we hugely recommend - Jon is talking about the complexity of time and he expresses in words what I've spent countless wasted hours pondering. He instructs us to "<i>stop making things up and start making things happen</i>" over a milieu that begins with splendidly simple guitar strings before progressively building into a combination of lush drum patterns and string arrangements. Let's leave our delusions behind and start making our visions happen, we are being told in no uncertain terms.<br />
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The song you just heard above - named after the album - is titled "Planes 1". Backed by uniformed keyboard arrangements and accompanied by very captivating solo string arrangements to bring the song to a thrilling end, Jon's vocals are once again the focal point here and for good reason too as his vocals and compelling lyrics richly fill up the purposed spaces left empty by the musical milieu. Much like "Past" (and "Present" that follows it), "Planes 1" has an accompanying song on <b><i>Planes</i></b> titled "Planes 2" which is as pure and awesome, an instrumental song you will here all year. I feel quite bad for not sharing it with you but that only means that you need to go and purchase the album when it comes out on April 9.<br />
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One problem that <b>Professor Penguin</b> might face is the conception that they do not make songs that appeal to the masses or mainstream audience and before you invade the comments section in protest, let me explain. The songs on this album are clever and intelligent songs that are seemingly for thinkers... I mean, think about it, they titled a song "Pterodactyl". Most people including myself need to go into the dictionary to find out what that means and then subsequently, try and figure out what the song then means. Nevertheless, that should neither be here nor there because the fact is this is GOOD MUSIC. <br />
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I could go on and on about how good this band is but I'd rather not, I want to hear what you think. Are these songs as beautiful as I think they are? I am wowed by the effortlessness in the continuation from one song to the other on <b><i>Planes</i></b>, how laid back and mellow this record is, the drops, the horns, the intimate feel of these songs. I mean I am wowed by all I hear on this record and it is such a great feeling to still be wowed in this music business I tell you.<br />
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There's no spin here, the music sells it self. Support the movement. Just Do It.<br />
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Keep Tabs on Professor Penguin: <a href="http://www.professorpenguin.co.uk/" target="_blank">Website</a> // <a href="http://www.facebook.com/professorpenguinuk" target="_blank">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://www.soundcloud.com/professorpenguin" target="_blank">Soundcloud</a> // <a href="http://www.twitter.com/profpenguinuk" target="_blank">Twitter</a><br />
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Till Next Time,<br />
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Peace, Love and Good Music<br />
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Neefemi<br />
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</div>Nee Fe Mihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00770543533340729142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-5968883853166168662012-04-02T14:32:00.000+01:002012-04-02T14:38:30.601+01:00We Plug To You... Wilson - Painted on Silence EP<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Introducing emerging Brit Soul Singer/Songwriter <b>Wilson</b> with his debut EP, <b>Painted On Silence</b>. Hailing from North London, Wilson has been singing his entire life with performances starting from as early as primary school and according to his Facebook page, his influences range from the late great <b>Michael Jackson</b> and <b>Whitney Houston</b> to <b>Stevie Wonder</b> and <b>Donnie Hathaway</b> among others. Wilson, who is a University graduate of Commercial Music, has performed at some of London's famous venues such as the <b>Jazz Cafe</b>, <b>Hackney Empire</b> and the <b>Royal Albert Hall</b> over the years but <b><i>Painted On Silence</i></b> marks his first public foray into the world of recorded music. Read on to find out what we thought...</span></span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The title of Wilson's EP is really clever and it is killing me that I can’t find more about how he came up with this title. Oh well, listening to this beautiful EP and </span></span>inferring<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"> from the music will just have to do for now. <b><i>Painted On Silence</i></b> is only six songs long, two of which are the EP's intro and outro - each lasting rather excellently for about two minutes and both providing a perfect start and end to the record. If this of a taste of all things Wilson then I am already eagerly waiting on more music from the London Singer/Songwriter. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">His sound is a delightful mix of Soul and Jazz music with a very prominent Gospel element and his pure and </span></span>unadulterated<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"> vocal abilities are just undeniable. His vocals faintly remind me of </span></span><b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal;">Lemar</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"> - they both have this drawn out and lush texture to their voice that I absolutely adore - and </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal;">I want to say that this album was performed and recorded with a live band because the quality of it is so good and so pure. This <i style="font-weight: bold;">Painted On Silence </i>EP as a whole is very inspirational and really uplifting. I received it while I was at work and I had it on repeat for hours, it certainly made my day go a lot easier and faster!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The first track I will be plugging to you from Wilson's <b><i>Painted On Silence</i></b> is the EP's second song titled "<b>I Won’t Complain</b>" and what I love the most about this track are the marching band drum patterns that shine all through this well-crafted song which is also well-backed by lush keyboard </span></span>arrangements<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"> and complimentary harmonies. The lyrics of the song speak brilliantly about running a race for love and how it isn’t about coming in first because being with that special person makes up for everything. In love there are no short cuts, you've got to take the long way to get it right (and not first) and "I Won't Complain" expresses this rather beautifully. Have a listen for yourself below...<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The next song after "I Won't Complain" in the EP's arrangement is titled “</span></span><b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal;">In Your Eyes</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">”. It is a heartfelt acoustic ballad over which </span></span><b style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal;">Wilson</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"> pours out all these beautiful things about this special lady - her eyes and her smile - and how she transports him to another universe where they are meant to be together - really romantic stuff from the </span></span>burgeoning<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"> singer and songwriter. This is just that kinda song you need to listen to on a rainy day while you stare out the window and you can be guaranteed that you will also be transported to another place just from listening to Wilson's dreamy vocals over this beautifully simplistic acoustic arrangement. It’s always a beautiful thing when a man is able to openly tell you how he feels, and I don’t care what anyone says, he’s clearly singing about me! You all can hate but by all means listen below...<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">“<b>Stay With Me</b>” is the fourth song on <b><i>Painted On Silence </i></b>and it is the upbeat Soul/Funk song of the album. It has this really fresh throwback 70s/80s feel to it with the echoing complicated melodies and live Jazz feel. I reckon that this song will be absolutely amazing to witness being performed live because there are so many things going on here sonically - from the lush drum patterns to the excellent guitar strings to the draping keyboards - but they all blend together nicely to make "Stay With Me" a very delightful audio haven! Listen below:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I wanna say that I wish this EP had more songs on it but I somehow think that any more than six songs would alter the flow and balance of the songs selected to grace the record. You can tell that each track was very well thought out and I love how each song sort of flows into the next track without ever sounding the same. B</span><span style="font-size: 100%;">y the way, another GOOD song from Wilson which unfortunately isn't on the EP is "Now or Never" which you can find on his Soundcloud page, however I digress.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Normally on EPs, you find artist just throwing in a bit of everything here and there without telling any real sort of story but with <b><i>Painted On Silence</i></b>, you will find that there is a theme sonically right from the intro all the way to the outro and it tells a story. Wilson tells a beautiful story on this EP and you come away from it feeling like you now know this fella called <b>Wilson</b>. If he is able to create such a masterpiece with just six songs then it will be intriguing to see what he does with a whole album. This London newcomer is definitely not an artist to be slept on! The <b><i>Painted On Silence</i></b> is out NOW for FREE download so go get yours.</span></div>
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Download: <a href="http://wilsonsings.bandcamp.com/album/painted-on-silence">Wilson - Painted On Silence EP</a></div>
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Keep Tabs on Wilson: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/musiciswilson">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://soundcloud.com/wilsonsings">Soundcloud</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/wilsonsings">Twitter</a></div>
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</div>Jade Oyatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05079929511760188440noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-58997276553044533272012-03-29T12:43:00.003+01:002012-03-30T04:55:29.305+01:00We Plug To You... Adenikè<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckcBEySXzj0/T2kq7u9HD_I/AAAAAAAAAY8/85M8NeTp7rQ/s1600/adenike"><img alt="" border="0" height="600" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722152007255920626" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckcBEySXzj0/T2kq7u9HD_I/AAAAAAAAAY8/85M8NeTp7rQ/s640/adenike" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="500" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Adenikè Adenaike</b>. A deliberate play on syntax? Maybe not. A stage name? Definitely not! That is actually her real name. <b>ADENIKÈ</b> means royalty in Yoruba (Nigeria) and rightly so. She has branded herself with the royal color - purple, her nickname is ‘Purple’ and from the press photo above, so is her hair and her brand but what about her music? I would have to concur that her music is just as awesome as the color purple... We plug to you, emerging R&B singer <b>Adenikè</b>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;">I randomly stumbled upon Adenikè singing on one of her YouTube videos, and I was mesmerized. She has this sultry, well-controlled R&B voice that is soft and effortlessly delivered. Think <b>Brandy</b>, <b>Sade Adu</b>, <b>Shola Ama</b>, think Pureness. I wanted to hear more of Adenikè and I did find a few more of her cover performances here and there but I was not satisfied as her refreshing soulful vibe surely leaves you wanting more.Apparently, this lovely and sweet spirited 22-year old London Singer/Songwriter of Nigerian heritage was born with music in her bones and grew up listening to the sounds of classical music, hymns and Afrobeat that was played regularly in the house by her mother who happened to be a singer. At the age of seven she picked up the piano and the pen.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Taking baby steps at the beginning of her singing career, Adenikè performed as a backing singer for <b>Kadija Kamara </b>at the Jazz Cafe in 2009 and after that, got that motivation she needed to step out with her talents as a lead singer.She released her first single titled "Yes" in Sept 2011., a song she describes as being about "opening up to love". Adenikè’s vocals on "Yes" remind me so much of <b>Sade Adu</b> with a slightly more R&B edge. ‘Yes’ is just purely gorgeous. Reminiscent of soulful 90's R&B sounds, the song is a beautiful rendition and interpretation of a woman's reflections of love and it comes as no surprise that it got her an interview on London's <b>Choice FM</b>, a stellar feature on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dq9N1_bDLRw&feature=youtu.be"><b>SB.TV</b>'s <b><i>A64</i></b></a> series and short listed for <b>MTV</b> UK's <b><i>Brand New for 2012</i></b> competition.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">She subsequently made a remix of "Yes" with fast-rising UK Hip-Hop artist, <b>IKES</b> and got burgeoning film maker <b>Olan Collardy</b> to produce and direct the quite stunning video for it and thousands of views later, it’s still a winner.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><object height="284" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LncK9mFcl-8?version=3&hl=en_GB"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LncK9mFcl-8?version=3&hl=en_GB" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="500" height="284" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div></div><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>“Came into my heart, changed the broken parts, I responded clearly with a, with a Yes” - </i></b><span style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Adenikè</i></b></span></span></div></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;">We Plug Good Music caught up with rising star <b>Adenikè</b> to get to know more about her and her music. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>On her music and song writing</b> - <i>I write my songs, I don’t really have a single word or phrase to describe my music. I would say it’s a fusion of 90’s R&B, neo-soul with lots of emotion and a pinch of randomness, as you’ll hear from my future projects! I have a unique writing style definitely. The first song I wrote was when I was seven years old. I still remember all the words. I plan to bring on fresh soulful ballads with catchy choruses, emotional content and thought provoking lyrics to ignite change in the mind of each listener. I don’t just desire to make music but also make a change and be a positive voice in my generation. With every song or poem I write I find out more about myself and hope others will too</i>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>On performing</b> - <i>I thought to myself this is what I want to do and I want to do this properly, using my vocal ability and vibrant personality to express myself in different ways on stage. You know, on stage you can adopt various personas and not have to make any excuses for it</i>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>On her influences and dream collaborations</b> - <i>I grew up in a house where you would regularly hear the vibrant sound of African drums but also the angelic sound of old English hymns. I have the privilege of experiencing both cultures which has massively influenced my music. Amongst my many musical influences, are <b>Rochelle Ferelle</b>, the late <b>Amy Winehouse</b>, <b>Bobby “Blue” Bland</b>, <b>Eva Cassidy</b>, <b>Ledisi</b>, <b>Brandy</b> and one of my biggest inspirations, <b>Eric Roberson</b>. My musical formation went through listening to such jazz divas as <b>Ella Fitzgerald</b>, <b>Billie Holiday</b> and <b>Sarah Vaughan</b>; I was later influenced by contemporary metropolitan popular music as well. <b>Eric Roberson</b> is one who I’d love to work with in the future. I’d also love to work with <b>Common</b>, <b>Jill Scott</b>, <b>Adele</b>, <b>Ed Sheeran</b> and <b>Tinie Tempah</b>. It’s quite a list but I just love their work!</i> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For now though, we leave you with a little taste of more of <b>Adenikè's</b> beautiful vocal musings by way of her latest offering after the successful release of "Yes". Released around Valentine’s Day, Adenikè teams up with fellow emerging artist, the very talented <b>J'Sun</b> for this acoustic cover of "You and I" which was originally sung by <b>Shei Atkins</b> and <b>Dallas Blocker</b>. It is a lovely duet of hopeful love between a boy and a girl who have gone through some rough times together but are still positive about the future and both Adenikè and J'Sun sing it rather amazingly. Theirs is a beautiful rendition that will put you in the mood for love - piano driven with sweet soft vocals riding the milieu beautifully. Amazing vocals all around and so excellently blended too, enjoy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F36261789&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Adenikè</b> continues to warm hearts with liquid love flowing from her voice while her fans continue to slowly but surely increase in number with each song she puts out. It's worth the wait to have some bluesy fresh melodies from her added to your playlist. <b>Adenikè</b> will be releasing a new single at the end of April 2012 so stay tuned and keep tabs on her. I am sure it will be as amazing as these two she has dished to us as appetizers. Watch out world! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Keep Tabs on Adenikè: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AdenikeSings">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/AdenikeSings">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.youtube.com/AdenikeSings">Youtube</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Tosinger</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-18652426358224641352012-03-26T15:10:00.001+01:002012-03-26T15:10:42.442+01:00The Best NEW & EMERGING Music - Week 10 & 11, 2012<div style="text-align: justify;">
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A full week late with this instalment BUT we are here nevertheless and what a month of March it has been so far for <b><i>New and Emerging Music</i></b>! The Sun is finally out and the music festival season has officially begun with <b><i>South by Southwest</i></b> (<b><i>SXSW</i></b>) kicking off the proceedings earlier in the month. In a way, you could say that our <b><i><a href="http://wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music">Best New and Emerging Music</a></i></b> series is very much like the <b>SXSW</b> festivals. <b>SXSW</b> has always been known for unearthing some pretty amazing new and emerging artists and that's exactly what our series has been doing all year so without further ado, here's our <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> of week TEN (05/03/12 - 11/03/12) and week ELEVEN (12/03/12 - 18/03/12) of 2012.<br />
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<b>2FORJOY - "CHOKE"</b></div>
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I knew nothing of <b>Ruth Ivo</b> <b>Powell</b> aka <b>2FORJOY</b> before coming across her amazing debut single titled "Choke". Admittedly, I still know very little about this London based singer and songwriter other than her voice is simply beautiful and her single "Choke" is one hell of a gem of a song - piano-led, Electronica-tinged, subtle, melancholic and compellingly haunting, brought together by some very excellent songwriting. Apparently <b>2forJoy</b> is the brainchild of Performing Arts veteran and creative director of Trash City, <b>Ruby Blues</b>. Watch the equally compelling <b>Annick Wolfers</b>-directed visuals for "Choke" below:</div>
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<b>BINKO SWINK - "BODY NAKED"</b></div>
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My love for London based Indie Pop trio <b>BINKO SWINK</b> has been well documented and with the recent release of "Body Naked", that fondness has increased rather exponentially. Released on March 5 along with their latest single "Play" to serve as its B-side, the soft and sublime "Body Naked" is backed by lush and bassy guitar arrangements that are accompanied by the most minimal and yet deft drum patterns while lead singer/guitarist Lyla completely captures you and draws you in with her amazingly beautiful vocals. I dare you not to hit the repeat button repeatedly on this one...<br />
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<b>LKT - "ALAYE"</b></div>
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From London, England, we make the six hour trip down to Lagos, Nigeria for our next addition to this installment of our <b><i>Best New & Emerging Music</i></b> series. Introducing Afrobeats crooner <b>LKT</b> with his massive new single titled "Alaye" which is sure to get you dancing or at least bopping your head uncontrollably wherever you hear it. Produced by <b>Young B</b> and laced with synth-heavy keyboard patterns and lush percussion drums, "Alaye" is a clever Afrobeats song and 100% dance floor filler complete with a fusion of Fuji and Hip Life elements that is sure to light up any DJ set across the globe.<br />
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<b>TEEN DAZE - "TRETEN"</b></div>
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Vancouver-based Chillwave artist and musician <b>TEEN DAZE</b> continues to make a resounding impression on us with his latest single titled "Treten", off of his forthcoming debut album <b><i>All Of Us, Together</i></b> which is due out on May 22 via the good folks at <b>Lefse</b>. Taking a good two months to follow up from his debut single "Brooklyn Sunburn" which was released in January after he dropped the massive "Let's Groove" on us on New Year's Eve, Teen Daze represents all that is wonderful about Chillwave on this new single "Treten" and while critics may say it lacks "ingenuity" or whatever that means, "Treten" represents one of Teen Daze's purest forms of ethereal, spacious, melodic and ambient Electronica recordings to date.<br />
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<b>NIKI & THE DOVE - "TOMORROW"</b></div>
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They are Swedish and they are signed to legendary Indie label <b>Sub Pop</b>! Two sure indications that Alternative Pop duo <b>NIKI & THE DOVE</b> are not only make amazing Pop music but that they are also the BUSINESS as far as new and emerging artists go in 2012. They certainly didn't need their <b><i>BBC Sound of 2012</i></b> nomination to confirm or affirm this, <b>Niki & The Dove</b> are already stars. "Tomorrow" is the latest single - as premiered by <b>Annie Mac</b> on <b>BBC Radio 1</b> - off of their forthcoming début album titled <b><i>Instinct</i></b> which is out on May 14. Containing the duo's now trademark sounds of lush synths, pounding drums and Malin Dahlstrom's soaring vocals, "Tomorrow" shows off the duo's incredible abilities to create some pretty awesome left-field and intelligent Pop songs.</div>
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<b>JOHN WEST - "NOBODY"</b><br />
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It seems like we've been everywhere - UK, Sweden, Nigeria and Canada to be exact - in the world apart from the US on this feature so we're going to head over to Los Angeles, California to bring this <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> feature to an end. The LA-based and <b>Mercury/Island Def Jam</b>-signed singer and songwriter <b>JOHN WEST</b> has previously called upon rappers <b>Big Sean</b> and <b>Pusha T</b> to feature on his last two singles but on his brand new single titled "Nobody", he takes on the piano-led R&B milieu by himself and to great effects too, as he shows off his excellent falsetto, lush vocal texture and songwriting dexterities. Listen below:<br />
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So there you have it, our SIX picks for the <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> from the first half of March, 2012! If you think we missed a trick and there are some records out there we may have overlooked, do NOT hesitate to let us know via the C-section!<br />
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Until the Next Time...</div>
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Best New & Emerging Music: <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/03/best-new-emerging-music-week-8-week-9.html">Week 8 & 9</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-6-week-7.html">Week 6 & 7</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-4-week-5.html">Week 4 & 5</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-3-2012.html">Week 3</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-2-2012.html">Week 2</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-1-2012.html">Week 1</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-of-2011.html">2011</a></div>
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</div>Ayo 'Ayohla' Adepoju (WPGM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/00305560267975113870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-49526883028854347632012-03-24T17:32:00.001+00:002012-03-24T17:32:08.337+00:00We Plug To You... Diggy Simmons - Unexpected Arrival (Album Review)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Even after three mixtapes [that I shamelessly still bump occasionally], I instantly think of young Diggy from the reality TV show <b><i>Run's House </i></b></span><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">whenever I hear </span><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Diggy Simmons</b><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">. Needless to say, this <i style="font-weight: bold;">Unexpected Arrival </i>album, </span><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">if nothing, has erased that thought as Diggy has very well proven himself to be a true rapper on his debut solo effort.</span> </div>
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Born on March 21 1995 as <b>Daniel Dwayne Simmons III</b> to famous rap icon <b>Rev Run</b> or <b>Run DMC</b>, you could say that music has always ran through Diggy's veins. He released his debut mixtape <b><i>The First Flight</i></b> in 2009, which got over 100,000 downloads upon release and resulted in firm interest from as many as five different labels for the young rapper. <b><i>Airborne</i></b> and <b><i>Past Present and Future</i></b> - both released in 2010 - were his second and third mixtapes respectively and were both met with plaudits from fans and critics alike. His work in 2011 landed him on Billboard's <b><i>2011 Artists To Watch</i></b> list and also earned him a spot on 2011's <b><i>XXL Freshmen</i></b> list. His début album Unexpected Arrival was released on March 20 via Atlantic Records and here are our thoughts on the 12-track affair.</div>
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We start with the track "<b>Hello World</b>" and being the first full song on his debut album, Diggy is definitely off to a great start with it. The chorus is catchy and the music draws you in even on the first listen. It starts off with simple piano chords till a heavy Hip-Hop milieu backed by an electronic guitar and drum kicks is fused in to make a classic beat that'll have you head bopping involuntarily. Diggy's flow and lyrics are those of authority letting you know the young artist is here to stay and he's letting his talent speak for itself. Listen below to get a taste of what the rest of the album holds.<br />
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On "<b>Two Up</b>", we hear Diggy switch his style up taking us to his more commercial side while still creating good quality music. Think of it as that chill rap music you've been waiting for all year, so its only right that this fresh track is on replay. Diggy withdraws from addressing the haters and doubters to rather talking about what he hopes to achieve with his music. The instrumentals possess that lush kick back sound with the perfect rhythm, soft drum kicks and piano-patterned sound. Diggy's vocals complement the track amicably, and the catchy chorus drifts you away so far that you forget you're listening to a 16 year old. Check out "Two Up" below...<br />
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The award for best song on the album goes to my last plug, "<b>Glow In the Dark</b>". This really should have come first on this review but I figured I'll lure you all in to the album slowly. The chemistry between Diggy's flow and the guest vocalist on the chorus over the crisp production screams pure perfection. Diggy raps about his trials through making it in the music industry. Listening closely to this album and this song in particular, you can tell that its Diggy's talent - and not his father's influence - that got him to where he is, else big brother Jojo would have also bagged a record deal as well if the latter was the case. Think triumphant, think victory or in the words of Charlie Sheen, #Winning… all exude from this track.<br />
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When I think of great albums or my favourites records, they are usually ones where no tracks on the album can be skipped and even if I have to, it's no more that one or two tracks. On <b><i>Unexpected Arrival</i></b>, "Four Letter Word" was one of those for me not because it’s a bad song but because it’s just a bit too cheesy for my ears. His younger crowd however might take a strong liking to it as he gets his Drake on with the singing on the track. Diggy sticks to catering to his female fans on the <b>Jeremih</b>-featured track "Do It Like You" while he switches to a more mature and hard-hitting rap stance on tracks such as "Need To Know", "88" which features <b>Jadakiss</b> and "Tom Edison", doing so very well.</div>
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Diggy featuring Tank is one formula I would never have conceptually thought of, but the duo on the song titled "Special Occasion" bring that fresh grown folk music to the album that you might not have expected. Leaving the other tracks to your unveiling, the album <b><i>Unexpected Arrival</i></b> finds a way to cater to a range of audiences while still keeping the music in sync. <b>Atlantic Records</b> sure did make a wise decision to sign the young emcee and at only 16, there’s no doubt in our minds that Diggy’s name will continue to be thrown in the hat as the possible and ever more likely face of the new era of Hip-Hop.</div>
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Keep Tabs on Diggy Simmons: <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/diggy_simmons">Twitter</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/diggysimmons">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://www.diggyworld.com/">Website</a></div>
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Download: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/unexpected-arrival-deluxe/id507872718">Diggy – Unexpected Arrival (iTunes)</a></div>
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TemiY</div>
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</div>TemiYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09429330662526760057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-8462949714048837972012-03-21T14:25:00.000+00:002012-03-21T14:42:37.964+00:00We Plug To You... Sara London - Breaking Hearts EP<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Canadian Singer/Songwriter </span><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Sara London</b><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"> has been on my ‘to-listen’ list for a while now, since a download link to her debut EP </span><b style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>Breaking Hearts</i></b><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"> landed on my radar last month. I finally got to listen to the emotional project this weekend and the impressive vocalist automatically gets a plug from me as a result of her stellar debut.</span><br />
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<a name='more'></a>A little fun fact about the Bahamian-born Canadian songstress is that she used to be go by her real name <b>Sara Green </b>but as she revealed in a recent online interview with <b>iLuluOnline</b>, she was moved to change her name because of another singer/songwriter and frequent <b>Lupe Fiasco</b> collaborator who goes by the name Sarah Green. The change to Sara London was welcomed and the artist has been happy with the move ever since.</div>
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While working on her new project, the now Ms London travelled between her hometown Ontario, Canada and New York, US to record. Her mentor and vocal coach <b>Kenny Hicks</b> was one of the major players on the EP along with producers <b>Darrel “Wolfgang” Jackson</b>, <b>Dane Hartsell</b>, <b>Jessie O’Brien</b>, and <b>Joel Stouffer</b>. She lists her influences as <b>Sade</b>, <b>Tracy Chapman</b>, <b>Sarah McLachlan</b> and someday dreams of working with <b>The Weeknd</b> and <b>Drake</b>. Until then however, lets listen to what <b>Sara London</b> currently has to offer. The expressive artist's genre of music can be classified as Pop/Jazz with a hint of Neo-soul and when asked in an interview, what inspired the title of her project, she replied:</div>
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<i>“Breaking Hearts is the title track. I think mainly because the story always ends in heartbreak… for me anyways. I’ve decided to have a Valentine’s Day release. It’s the perfect day for my love and heartbreak EP!"</i></blockquote>
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Starting off with her debut EP's title track "<b>Breaking Hearts</b>", we can already witness Sara's songwriting prowess and vocal abilities. As if the title wasn't clear enough, the lush solo keyboard introduction further imprints the strong emotional and evocative tone of the record and as the backing harmonies gently saunter in on the keyboard arrangements, you are well and truly drawn in to this song. The drum kicks mixed with a medley of stringed instruments give the song that R&B/Neo-Soul vibe and music style. On "Breaking Hearts", Sara speaks on how she never stays in love and in essence is always breaking hearts even unintentionally. The melody to this track reminds me a lot of a 90’s record which is probably why I like it all the more but I'll let you folks listen (below) and judge</div>
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This next track "<b>Breathe (With You)</b>" which is co-produced by <b>Jesse O'Brien</b> and <b>Joel Stouffer</b> starts off very solemn with grand piano arrangements and leads into more minimalistic sounds similar to that of compressed synths. The milieu picks up soon after, as Sara’s vocals and lush drum kicks join in beautifully on the warm keyboard-led instrumentals. I most especially like how the chorus switches up to a different feel and tempo from the rest of the song. "Breathe (With You)" is definitely an easy listening favorite off of the EP with Sara genuinely speaking on finally finding love on this sublime Pop/Soul song. If anything, this should be the first single released by Ms. London as it has such a radio friendly feel to it.</div>
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The acoustic driven "<b>Making Me Feel Good</b>" is the final song I'll be plugging from Sara London's <b><i>Breaking Hearts</i></b> EP and what a record to end on. This track - with its stripped down guitar instrumentals - highlights Ms London’s warm and inviting vocals even more than the previous songs. Keeping up with the love theme that runs through the EP, Sara pours out her feelings of how her significant other makes her feel. I love the simplicity in the song, which makes it one of my favorites to listen to but I would have loved if Sara hit a few high notes to show off her vocal capabilities more. She almost reminds me of <b>Angel Taylor</b> on this track, but similarities aside, listen to the lush Summery track below</div>
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Looking up Sara London online, "<b>Crying Café</b>" was one track that seemed to be very popular with the fans and I can see why as it embodies that classic R&B feeling and is one song to definitely look out for as you listen to <b><i>Breaking Hearts</i></b>. Sara also samples the smash hit "Apologise" by <b>One Republic</b> and transforms her rendition into a powerful and conscious track titled "<b>Talking Bout A Revolution</b>" that is worth more than a few listens. For now, Sara London is not a well-known name in many industry circles and she is still very much the epitome of "new and emerging" but I think she’s got enough talent both vocally and with her song writing to carve out a good niche for herself and her music amidst all the white noise. We're going to wager that in no time, she'll start receiving the acknowledgement and shine she duly deserves.</div>
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Keep Tabs on Sara London: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sara-London/272319409482665?v=app_178091127385">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/SaraLondonMusic">Twitter</a></div>
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Download: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sara-London/272319409482665?v=app_178091127385">Sara London - Breaking Hearts EP</a></div>
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TemiY</div>
</div>TemiYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09429330662526760057noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-91876853117174263772012-03-17T13:51:00.002+00:002012-03-17T14:17:41.445+00:00We Plug To You… The Funeral Suits<div style="text-align: center;">
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Heading straight out of the Irish capital, <b>The Funeral Suits</b> are a modern Rock four-piece band, with roots in melodious Pop, mind-blowing art Rock and symphonic Electronica. The band's music can be likened to early <b>Kasabian</b>, <b>White Lies </b>and Electro-Acoustic Rock band, <b>Empire Of The Sun</b>, with their summery, edgy, psychedelic-rock sound. Not the first type of music that you think about when you envision an alternative Irish band I'm sure...<br />
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<a name='more'></a><b>The Funeral Suits</b> describe themselves as "<i>heavy without being menacing</i>" and have spent the last two years writing, recording and rehearsing in a no-longer-used office space in North County Dublin in typical D.I.Y fashion. Having played as support acts and special guests to <b>Franz Ferdinand</b>, <b>Passion Pit</b>, <b>The Maccabees</b>, and <b>Local Natives</b>, their debut single "Colour Fade" was released in May 2011. Since then, they have released a second single titled "Health" and have recorded their debut album with producer, <b>Stephen Smith</b> (Blur, The Smiths). Funeral Suits’ latest single, "All Those Friendly People" is to be released on March 19, 2012, with their debut album <b><i>Lily Of The Valley</i></b> scheduled for release in June.</div>
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The intriguing vocals of their début single "Colour Fade" draw a striking resemblance to <b>Empire Of The Sun’s</b> "Walking On A Dream" but the music - backed by lush electric guitar plucks and minimalist drum kicks - also has odd similarities to Canadian Indie giants, <b>Arcade Fire</b>, which oddly enough works really well. The band's second single, "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hY-3y70pEEk&feature=channel">Health</a>" has a very clever but could-be-seen-as-controversial and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hY-3y70pEEk&feature=channel">eerie video</a> to accompany the single; the music of which can be compared to <b>Kasabian’s</b> "Fire" with its fiery guitar arrangements and lingering lead vocals over hard-hitting drum patterns.<br />
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The band note their influences as "<i>peer pressure apocalypse</i>", which could be interpreted to mean that they give their fans what they want to hear, but in their own unique style seemingly against the norms of what "modern rock" is. The visuals for the band's upcoming single, "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5j4l_NdkYMQ&feature=channel">All Those Friendly People</a>" which is due out on Monday, March 19 also takes reference from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hY-3y70pEEk&feature=channel">the video for "Health"</a> with the use of the same masks in both videos but this single is a lot more mellow and brighter than "Colour Fade" and "Health" with its lush melodies, guitars and drum patterns and is more serene and calming, conjuring up visions of road trips on a long Summer’s day.<br />
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Talking about visuals however, the band's most exhilarating visuals have to go to their happiest song till date, "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tx03QGyaN2c">Florida</a>" which has somewhat similar uplifting tones to <b>Bombay Bicycle Club</b>. These singles, "All Those Friendly People" and "Florida" epitomise the very essence of the band and what they stand for - "<i>expansive without being overblown, and all the more thrilling for its restraint</i>". Mention the name <b>The Funeral Suits</b> in a few months time and these are the two songs that fans will think of straight away.<br />
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The band are just rounding up their first tour of the UK which has seen stops in over 12 cities including London, Cardiff, Birmingham and Glasgow with a final stop over at King Tut’s in Glasgow on Saturday, March 24. Last September, they played at Ireland's biggest music and arts festival, <b>Electric Picnic </b>- which offers eclectic mix of musical artists and an array of fine music, theatre, comedy, holistic health and art - at the <b>Stradbally Hall Estate</b> near their hometown. For this year's <b>Electric Picnic</b> festival (their eighth), <b>The Funeral Suits</b> played alongside headliners <b>Arcade Fire</b>, <b>Pulp</b>, and <b>The Chemical Brothers </b>as well as the likes of <b>Interpol</b>, <b>The Go! Team</b>, <b>Underworld</b>, <b>Foster the People</b>, <b>Lykke Li</b>, and <b>Sinead O’ Connor</b> which would have definitely have boosted their portfolio and fanbase.<br />
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In May, <b>The Funeral Suits</b> are playing at the renowned <b><i>Camden Crawl</i></b> in London, where the best up and coming British artists play alongside music legends every Spring. Recent acts at the <b><i>Camden Crawl</i></b> have included <b>Snow Patrol</b>, <b>Biffy Clyro</b>, <b>Crystal Castles</b> and Beach-Boy associated surfer band, <b>the Drums</b> with headliners this year announced to be <b>Death In Vegas</b>, <b>Glasvegas</b> and <b>Alabama 3</b>.<br />
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Keep Tabs on The Funeral Suits: <a href="http://facebook.com/thefuneralsuits">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://www.myspace.com/thefuneralsuits">Myspace</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/funeralsuits">Twitter</a><br />
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Tim Osbourne</div>Tim Osbournehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13710519279608060540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-81193394176762419592012-03-12T12:50:00.001+00:002012-05-16T15:56:36.628+01:00We Plug To You... Michael Kiwanuka - Home Again (Album Review)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's a Friday night and I'm getting prepped for my radio show looking for new African acts delivering great music. It was while doing this a few weeks ago that I heard <b>Michael Kiwanuka</b> for the first time via <a href="http://www.okayafrica.com/2012/01/10/audiovideo-michael-kiwanukas-home-again-ep/" target="_blank">Okay Africa</a>. What I heard that day was "<b>Home Again</b>", the lead single and title track for his debut album which I have the pleasure of reviewing now. As such; without further ado, I plug to you the <b><i>BBC Sound of 2012 </i></b>winner, <b>Michael Kiwanuka</b> with his inspiring debut album <b><i>Home Again</i></b>.</div>
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Michael is a British Singer/Songwriter of Ugandan Heritage, with a refreshing sound because he sounds like no one you have heard in the last twenty or thirty years. To try to compare him to any singer, you will have to go back and I mean way back to the likes of <b>Otis Redding</b> and <b>Bill Withers</b>. Somewhere in the middle of those two great voices, emerges Michael with a unique yet aged sound, that inspires, captivates and sincerely moves you to your core. I know some of you would like to bring up <b>Ray Lamontagne</b> as someone he sounds like, but though they both are folk singers, Ray's voice does not quite have the edginess and vintage soul that Michael's does. </div>
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However, you don't have to be old to like <b>Michael Kiwanuka</b>, this is not nostalgic music, such that my parents would be glad because they hear a sound they can relate to, because it reminds them of when they were young. No! This is still hip and young music, and all you have to be is a lover of good music. You don't have to be the kind of person who is into Soul or Folk music; Hip-Hop lovers, Country lovers, Rock lovers, everyone can love his songs if you take the time to listen and let this music do its work. There's a magical eeriness to his sound that simply heals.</div>
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The album starts off great with "<b>Tell Me A Tale</b>" and this immediately makes you think <b>Otis</b>, but what I love about this song is what they do on production. There's a bridge there where you hear the saxophone, horns and trumpets that reminds you immediately of the late <b>Fela Anikulapo-Kuti</b>. Producer, <b>Paul Butler</b> of UK Indie Rock Band <b>The Bees</b> - who produces all the tracks on this album - does a great job on this song. Right from the jump you can hear that Michael really owns this sound, he is not just trying it on for size and throughout the album you cannot deny the vivaciousness of his voice.</div>
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The album's second song is easily my favorite song on this album. I've always said that Country is my favorite genre because they always tell a story and this is what "<b>I'm Getting Ready</b>"<b> </b>does. Backed by soft guitar progressions accompanied by the most minimal drum patterns and soft but yet captivating backing vocals, it is the shortest song on this album but it is such an anthem, the kind that you will hear as the backdrop of a scene in a poignant movie of triumph, faith, miracles and victory. Don't let this one get over your head, let the calmness of the song sweep you into <i>believing</i>.</div>
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"<b>I'll Get Along</b>" is more lively and more romantic with Michael telling someone - assuming it's a girlfriend rather than his mother - and just letting her know he'll be back, even though he hasn't called over some amazing Jazz flutes, lush drum patterns and backing harmonies. "<b>Rest</b>" is more soulful, a gentle sort of lullaby with the piano arrangements lulling you to rest, to be at peace, especially in the arms of the one you love as Michael promises to not let you worry at all. "<b>Home Again</b>" is that song that uplifts when you are feeling lost and lonely. Its raw emotion and easy melody is such that makes you smile. That's what this album does, it strings at your heart in different ways, evoking varying emotions.</div>
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"<b>Bones</b>" is my second favorite song on this album. I would play it at my wedding and request to dance it at every opportunity to dance with the man of my dreams. It is that 80's song of before, with background singers that harmonize on it so perfectly and a Jazz-influenced string arrangement that keeps the sung buzzing. Michael longs to be alone with this person and promises to be just bones, without this person in his life. Such beauty in a song, I honestly haven't heard in a while. </div>
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I've had this album on repeat all day and passed on the stream link to everyone I know would appreciate good music. <b><i>Home Again</i></b>, contains only ten tracks, so it will be easy for me to just review each song, but I actually want you to purchase this album and discover some of the magic of songs like "<b>Always Waiting</b>" and "<b>Worry Walks Beside Me</b>" on your own. These songs and the other two not mentioned here are without saying just as great as the ones that I have mentioned above. This album is the sort that you would remember the first time you heard it and wouldn't forget it either. Listen to "Any Day Will Do Fine" below if you still doubt...</div>
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It is easily my favorite album of the year thus far and every other "new" artist in 2012 has the onus upon them to create something as beautiful as this. This is not hype, this is substance and I say so very objectively. I have listened for flaws on <b><i>Home Again</i></b> and I can find none. He is a brilliant story teller; the guitar, the strings, the brass, the saxophone, the flutes, the trumpet and his stunning voice all blend together perfectly on each and every song on this album.</div>
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I could go on and on here but wouldn't you rather listen than read? I know I sure would, so please - and I am begging because I know you will come back to thank me later - purchase this album today. Buy this album for a friend even and lets have Michael reach great success with this truly inpsiring debut effort. Also, if you are in Austin, which I unfortunately am not, he will be performing at <b>South by Southwest (SXSW)</b> a couple of times, so make sure to check out the website to watch him perform these songs live.</div>
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Purchase: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/preorder/home-again/id487056402?affId=1311764" target="_blank">Michael Kiwanuka - Home Again (iTunes)</a></div>
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Keep Tabs on Michael Kiwanuka - <a href="http://michaelkiwanuka.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/michaelkiwanuka" target="_blank">Twitter</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelKiwanuka" target="_blank">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelKiwanukaMusic" target="_blank">Youtube</a></div>
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Peace, Love and Good Music</div>
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Neefemi</div>Nee Fe Mihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00770543533340729142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-45088862051775713772012-03-06T01:12:00.001+00:002012-03-06T01:42:01.695+00:00The Best NEW & EMERGING Music - Week 8 & Week 9, 2012<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Ladies and gentlemen, I am not going to lie to you. Being able to bring to you this rather fun and exciting <b><i><a href="http://wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music">Best New and Emerging Music</a> </i></b>series every week is proving harder than I thought and you will have noticed that over the last six weeks, it has become more of bi-monthly series rather than a weekly one. Notwithstanding, we are as still committed as ever to continue to trail and sifting through all the new music coming out in 2012 and bringing you the very <b><i>Best New and Emerging Music</i></b> of 2012 as and when they occur. Without further ado however, here's our <b><i>Best New Music</i></b> of week EIGHT (20/02/12 - 26/02/12) and week NINE (27/02/12 - 04/03/12) of 2012.<br />
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<b>ALBY DANIELS - "THIS DAWN"</b></div>
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22-year old <b>ALBY DANIELS</b> - much like <b>Stacy Barthe</b> who finally made it into our Best New Music series on the previous installment - has been on our radar for quite a few months now. His two previous singles - "Her About Something" and "Voodoo Holiday" - were criminally omitted from our Best New Music lists in weeks two and three of 2012 respectively but after hearing his third offering of the year by way of the title track of his debut EP <b><i>This Dawn</i></b> which was released on February 20 via Dark Acre Records, it would prove impossible not to include Alby Daniels' "This Dawn" in our Best New Music series. With his excellent blend and fusion of R&B, 2-step and Post-dubstep, this London-based Brighton singer, producer and musician has already caught the eyes of the likes of <b>The Guardian</b>, <b>BBC Radio 1 </b>and <b>Xfm</b> among others and you know what that means...</div>
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<b>RHYE - "OPEN"</b></div>
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"Open" is the amazing debut single from LA-based newcomers <b>RHYE</b>. The gloriously synths and strings-heavy single is also the title track for their debut EP <b><i>Open</i></b> which was released last month via <b>Innovative Leisure</b>. While the identity and background of this "anonymous" Electronic Pop duo remain shrouded deep in mystery, the music that they have put out by way of their 3-track debut offering has been nothing short of spell-binding and captivating with a lush minimalist and R&B flavor to it. Already creating a massive buzz for themselves online (albeit as much about their hidden identity as about how excellent this record is because it really is excellent and all we should really be talking about), Rhye's full length album is already complete and will be released later in the year. In the meantime, check out the NSFW video for "Open" below.<br />
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<b>EVY JANE - "SAYSO"</b></div>
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Still talking about Experimental/Electronica music that has a distinct R&B flavor to it, Vancouver duo <b>EVY JANE</b> - made up of veteran musicians, <b>Evelyn Mason</b> and <b>Jeremiah Klein</b> - are another new and emerging duo that are creating some pretty exceptional "experimental R&B" music in 2012. Their self-titled debut EP recently released via <a href="http://kingdeluxe.bigcartel.com/product/evy-jane-12">King Deluxe</a> birthed two equally stunning original songs titled "SaySo" and the slightly darker "OhSo". However, filled with hazy and atmospheric synth arrangements, staggering drum clatters and Evelyn's enchanting vocals, the duo's lead single "SaySo" is the song that made us fall in love with Evy Jane. Listen below...<br />
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<b>THEESATISFACTION - "ENCHANTRUSS"</b></div>
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From experimental R&B territory, we're taking a sharp right into familiar and good old Hip-Hop territory by way of "new" and emerging female Hip-Hop duo <b>THEESATISFACTION</b> who are signed to the legendary <b>Sub Pop </b>record label and maybe we're not taking an entirely sharp right with this one because there's just something about a Hip-Hop duo signed to the label that housed the likes of <b>Nirvana</b>, <b>Fleet Foxes</b>, <b>Beach House </b>and <b>The Shins </b>that by default pulls you away from any notions of traditional Hip-Hop music you might have in 20120 - this, on the other hand is built upon cosmic and conscious lyrics laced over psychedelic funk, soul and jazz backdrops. We first heard <b>Stacia Irons</b> and <b>Catherine Harris-White</b> (THEESatisfaction) on the sublime "Swerve" off of <b>Shabazz Palaces'</b> critically acclaimed 2011 album <b><i>Black Up</i></b> and on March 27, we will be blessed with a 13-track (major label) debut album from <b>THEESatisfaction</b> titled <b><i>awE naturalE</i></b>. "Enchantruss" which features <b>Palaceer Lazaro</b> of <b>Shabazz Palace</b> is the second offering to be released from the forthcoming album and it goes straight into our <a href="http://wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Best New Music</a> list for the week.<br />
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<b>JOEY BADA$$ - "WAVES"</b></div>
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Rounding up our <b><i><a href="http://wepluggoodmusic.com/search/label/Best%20New%20Music">Best New and Emerging Music</a></i></b> list from the last fourteen days (20/02/12 - 04/03/12) is a 17-year old rapper hailing from Brooklyn, New York that goes by the name of <b>JOEY BADA$$</b>. Bursting unto the scene earlier this year with his hard-hitting first offering "Survival Tactics" which featured fellow Brooklyn rapper Capital STEEZ, Joey BadA$$ has been getting rave reviews from several US Hip-Hop tastemakers such as <b>Hip-Hop DX</b>, <b>The Source</b>, <b>The Smoking Section</b> and <b>The Fader</b> among many others with rather premature comparisons to Nas (circa 1992) already being tossed around. Juvenile and silly stage names aside, <b>Joey BadA$$</b> - who is a member of the <b>Pro.Era (Progessive Era)</b> crew - is a pretty decent emcee and at only 17, the potential that the kid has is enormous. "Waves" - backed by lush keyboard and string arrangements and a funky bassline - is the second offering from his forthcoming debut solo project titled <i style="font-weight: bold;">1999 </i>to be released via SOW (Cinematic Music Group & Creative Control TV).<br />
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And there you have it ladies and gentlemen, the very <b><i>Best New and Emerging Music</i></b> of the last fourteen days. It's a tough job but someone's gotta do it. I hope you enjoyed our selections of new music this go around, we brought you some "Experimental R&B" from three different parts of the world - the UK, US and Canada - as well as some Hip-Hop music from Brooklyn, New York and some (not traditionally so) Hip-Hop music from Seattle, Washington.<br />
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Until the Next Time...<br />
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Best New & Emerging Music: <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-6-week-7.html">Week 6 & 7</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-4-week-5.html">Week 4 & 5</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-3-2012.html">Week 3</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-2-2012.html">Week 2</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-1-2012.html">Week 1</a> // <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-of-2011.html">2011</a></div>
<br /></div>Ayo 'Ayohla' Adepoju (WPGM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/00305560267975113870noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-25901726059485328042012-03-05T11:18:00.003+00:002012-03-05T11:19:00.035+00:00We Plug To You… Black Circles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Bursting out of Kent, Englad and describing themselves as an Alternative power-trio is a dark and intense outfit by the name of <b>Black Circles</b> with their excellent delivery of thrashing, melody-driven Rock anthems. The band are self-proclaimed lovers of early <b>Foo Fighters</b> material - an influence that is clearly present their music - and while some bands who try to dabble in this specific genre of music can of course become lost in screaming vocals, Black Circles' lead vocalist/guitarist <b>Dan</b> (with backing from bassist <b>Mayumi</b>) delivers catchy choruses without going too far into the wailing territory of many similar bands.<br />
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In 2011, <b>Black Circles</b> put out their debut single "Little Girl" which grabbed the ears of the good folks over at <b>BBC 6 Music</b> who subsequently featured the band on their <i><b>BBC 6 Introducing</b></i> show. Their follow-up single, "<b>Final Straw</b>" gained attention from celebrated video producers <b>Crossroad Films</b> (Muse, Athlete and Biffy Clyro) who offered to produce an accompanying visual for the single after they witnessed a very energetic festival appearance from the band. The single - with a style that resembles a collision between <b>Queens of the Stone Age</b> and <b>Green Day </b>- went on to be featured on such national magazines as <b>Rhythm</b>, <b>Bass Guitar</b> and <b>Hello Kitty Fashion</b>.</div>
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"Final Straw" paved the way for a productive 2011 - a year in which Black Circles undertook a <b>RocSoc</b> university tour across the United Kingdom and played some very high profile festival slots at the likes of <b>Farm Festival</b>, <b>Indie Week</b> in Ireland, <b>Big Bike Festival</b> and <b>Great Escape</b> in Brighton. The band's newest offering "Escape'" shows Black Circles in full force, with thrashing guitars and a big-band sound mixed with catchy, but powerful lyrics and harmonies. It's a song that verges on the metal genre elegantly, aiming to reverberate skulls whilst at the same time leaving the lyrics firmly rooted in the listeners head.<br />
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<b>BBC Radio Kent</b> has been giving the new single some heavy airtime lately - probably due to a lack of spectacular music in the local scene to rival <b>Black Circles</b> at the moment - as the band continue to make the pilgrimage into London on a weekly basis to gig and promote the new track. The accompanying video for "Escape" is an odd mix of viral hilarity and powerful music. The storyline features a demanding puppet squirrel attempting to set the tone for the recording by throwing nuts at the band, moonwalking across the mixing desk - a personal highlight - and eventually meeting a real squirrel. It's a strange concept to say the least and somewhat detracts from the usual tone of the band.<br />
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That said and despite its low budget, the endearing nature of the concept is likely to keep listeners hooked long enough to fall in love with the trio. In the virtual world, <b>Black Circles</b> have become the self-proclaimed "nicest guys on Twitter" with a growing army of fans who seem to tweet and engage the band on a daily basis. They represent a new era of music and musicians that appear to be heavily based around manipulating the online domain to reach out to new music listeners and producing music that is "shareable" within their dedicated fan-base, generally consisting of under 20's.</div>
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Recently as a 'thank you' to their new online fans, bassist <b>Mayumi</b> and lead vocalist <b>Dan</b> put a special acoustic performance of a song titled "<a href="http://youtu.be/xsobEI0RgF8">Do What You Say</a>" on their Youtube channel, which shows a slightly lighter side to the usually fairly dark band. <b>Black Circles</b> have several gig dates coming up and are hoping to net themselves a variety of festival slots this year in order to build on their successes throughout 2012. This is likely to be followed by a nationwide tour so if you like what you've heard above, stay tuned to the band below...<br />
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Keep Tabs on Black Circles: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_533349684"></span>Facebook<span id="goog_533349685"></span></a> // <a href="http://www.twitter.com/BC_Band">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/BlackCirclesband">Youtube</a><br />
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</div>Tim Osbournehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13710519279608060540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-89319872455041926582012-02-28T16:39:00.001+00:002012-02-28T16:39:17.330+00:00We Plug to You... BJ The Chicago Kid - Pineapple Now-Laters (Album Review)<div style="text-align: center;">
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OK so <b><i>Pineapple Now - Laters</i></b> is actually a candy! When I first heard the intro to this record, I thought BJ was just reciting some really cool Spoken Word with some deeper meaning but he’s actually just talking about candy people! Apparently it was his favourite candy as a kid and in previous interviews, he has stated that this pre-album is just a taste of everything BJ - he refers to it as "World Soul R&B". I refer to it as a perfect mix of all things Soul and GOOD.<br />
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<b>Bryan Sledge</b> aka <b>BJ the Chicago Kid</b> grew up in Chicago and like every other great Soul artist out there started from good old Gospel music. His brother, Aaron Sledge is actually nominated for a Stellar Award - it runs in the family apparently. Growing up in South Chicago where nothing was really promised meant that little Bryan had to rise above all the odds and work hard and at the age of 19, he moved to L.A and from there, has become somewhat a household name in new R&B/Hip-Hop. His first break came from singing back up for <b>Mary Mary</b>, <b>Anthony Hamilton</b> and <b>Musiq Soulchild</b> and writing for <b>Mary J Blige</b>. He came up with the name <b>BJ the Chicago Kid</b> because he wanted something that would stick when first heard but funnily enough in a recent interview, BJ stated that he would like to go back to being called <b>Bryan Sledge</b> because it sounds more professional and international. </div>
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When I first heard of BJ the Chicago Kid, I honestly thought he was a Hip-Hop artist and admittedly, BJ does concede that "BJ the Chicago Kid" makes him sound like a rapper. Personally, I like <b>BJ the Chicago Kid </b>and after listening to all 18 tracks on <b><i>Pineapple Now-Laters</i></b>, I think that name brings a certain funk and intrigue to everything. This "album before the album" is meant to provide a taster of everything BJ has to offer, and boy does it just! <b><i>Pineapple Now-Laters</i></b> literally is just like a kitchen sink full of everything that makes a good Soul-filled album. There’s a rawness to every song that I just can’t get enough of. These songs are refreshingly organic and it's almost like they grow and germinate in your mind after a few listens. Everyone knows that I’m generally opposed to albums that have more than thirteen tracks because I feel an album starts to lose its overall theme and ethos once it gets to track 15 but with this album, it’s very different. </div>
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Every song is its own but still flows well with the others. There are some real Hip-Hop beats on this record but then it goes beautifully into Jazz and then Blues. I’ve never tasted <i><b>Pineapple Now Laters</b></i> but if this album is anything to go by, then I can confidently say it is currently my favourite type of candy! I don’t think I’ve been as excited about an artist since stumbling on <b>Frank Ocean</b>! You know when you’re listening to a soulful Hip-Hop song and the hook is so good and so soulful that you almost don’t want the rap verses to come on at all? Well yea, this album is sorta like that - compilations of great soulful hooks woven into beautiful tracks. A perfect example of this is "<b>Dream II</b>" where he has snippets of a <b>Will Smith</b> interview on work ethic, which I think mirrors his own work ethic. And then there’s the <b>Jairus Moze</b>-produced ode to all Black women titled "<b>Fly Girl Get'em</b>", a track that could easily have featured Common or someone similar on it - a very uplifting (without being cheesy) and heavy tune with fresh vibrant sounds filled with lush horn arrangements and drum patterns.<br />
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The next track on <b><i>Pineapple Now-Laters</i></b> that really strikes me is "<b>Sex X Money X Sneakers</b>" with its Old School Funk feel and very upbeat vibe. This song has to be my new anthem, I love how he decodes the secret to a good life and boils it down to these seven thing - sex, money, sneakers, airplanes, good reefers, good music and good people! It’s just so much fun every time I listen to this track that I can’t help but singing along - the song literally bubbles in your chest!<br />
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On songs like "<b>Aiight</b>", "<b>Good Love"</b>, "<b>The Big Payback</b>" and "<b>Good Luv’n</b>", he turns up the sexy for us ladies and belts out some smooth love tunes that are perfect for setting the mood. On "<b>Aiight</b>" which is produced by <b>Brody Brown</b>, BJ starts off by hitting those soft falsettos out of the park and you can't help but be reminded of the likes of <b>Musiq Soulchild</b> and <b>J. Holiday</b>. The slow burning drum patterns, minimal keyboard arrangements and smooth backing vocals accentuate the song's sensuality. BJ gives this song that familiar feeling and makes it sound like a song you might have heard before but love listening to over again - it's got that old school R&B/Soul vibe that remains timeless.<br />
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The last track I’m gonna be plugging to you on this feature is one that pulled at my heart string the first time I heard it. It is the <b>Sounwave</b>-produced "<b>His Pain II</b>" (<a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/01/best-new-emerging-music-week-3-2012.html">Best New Music Week 3</a>) which features <b>Kendrick Lamar</b> and damn this song goes hard without even trying. Kendrick Lamar gives a personal testimony of life’s general woes and close calls and ends each line with "<i>I don’t know why he keep blessing me</i>". At one stage in the song, his voice literally breaks and you can hear him struggle to speak through the held back tears which really add to the tone of the whole song. BJ’s vocals gives this tracks all the complements it will ever need, track is beautifully raw! Have a listen for yourself. </div>
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<b><i>Pineapple Now-Laters</i></b> is a very adept, intriguing and captivating 18-track record that perfectly introduces you to the world and beautiful sound of <b>Bryan Sledge</b> aka <b>BJ the Chicago Kid</b>. It's an album you probably won’t get tired off easily, which for me personally is very welcomed amongst the all so similar sounds of today. And no, I am not saying that it sounds different to what we’ve heard before - no idea is original and all that. What I’m getting at is its consistency and ability to create new age Soul and R&B in a world where R&B is seriously suffering from an identity crisis. Knowing that there are still artists like Bryan who are willing to make good music that represents what they are about is comforting and a hope giver for music in general. <b><i>Pineapple Now-Laters</i></b> is a very generous album that provides something for all Soul, R&B and GOOD music lovers and is not one to be slept on. </div>
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Purchase: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/p-i-n-e-a-p-p-l-e-n-o-w-l-a-t-e-r-s/id504629023">BJ the Chicago Kid - Pineapple Now-Laters (iTunes)</a></div>
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Till the next time...</div>
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Sex X Money X Sneakers</div>
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</div>Jade Oyatzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05079929511760188440noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698002709975447147.post-85841817510962832072012-02-27T13:51:00.003+00:002012-02-27T13:57:15.854+00:00We Plug To You... Stacy Barthe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x_xFX3gZUcs/T0uKPmFNUGI/AAAAAAAABBA/o6Pa364EL-I/s1600/Stacy+Barthe+in+the+Booth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="445" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x_xFX3gZUcs/T0uKPmFNUGI/AAAAAAAABBA/o6Pa364EL-I/s400/Stacy+Barthe+in+the+Booth.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Hey folks! Apologies for the hiatus, but I’m back with an artist that you just have to hear about. I like to consider myself knowledgeable about music but it looks like somehow this Singer-Songwriter missed my radar last year.</div>
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She recently made it on to our <a href="http://www.wepluggoodmusic.com/2012/02/best-new-emerging-music-week-6-week-7.html">Best New & Emerging Music</a> list and with no further ado I present to you, Singer/Songwriter <b>Stacy Barthe</b>. Like most songwriters who transition into performing artists, Stacy’s first EP <b><i>Sincerely Yours</i></b> came about by her wondering what would happen if she answered the calling she felt within to create a personal work of art and to perform her own songs. Following that successful EP from 2011, came the birth of her most recent work <b><i>In The Inbetween</i></b> which was released in February 2012. Below is an excerpt on Stacy from her official website.<br />
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<i>"With this new generation of pop and fast paced beats, out emerges a new breed of the young soul. Born in Brooklyn, raised in Long Island and of Haitian decent, Barthe grew up with the inspiration of Sade, Bob Marley, Ella Fitzgerald, Lauryn Hill and The Fugees; which created a deep and serene portrayal of her life through her writing and singing."</i></blockquote>
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The Grammy Award-nominated Stacy signed a publishing deal with <b>Universal Music Publishing Group</b> in 2007 and is known for working with such notable artists as <b>Akon</b>, <b>Estelle</b> and <b>Brandy</b>. She is also responsible for penning quite a few mainstream records including <b>Britney Spears</b>’ “Blur” and <b>Katy Perry’</b>s “Hummingbird Heartbeat” amongst others and lets just say we’re glad Stacy is coming out from behind the scenes to bring us that GOOD music.</div>
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The first track I'm sharing titled "<b>Keep It Like It Is</b>" comes off Stacy’s most recent project, the <b><i>In the Inbetween</i></b> album. This is also the first track I heard from the artist so I’m hoping it has the same effect on you. Produced by <b>Supa Dups</b>, the fusion of R&B on an instrumental that echoes a bassline highly influenced by Reggae just makes me want to turn up the volume! Belting lyrics that can only come from an emotional place, the track poses such great production and vocal quality that Stacy Barthe’s knowledge about music truly stands out. Having written the sublime smash hit for Barbados native <b>Rihanna</b>, “Cheers, (Drink to That)”, we can see why Stacy is comfortable writing and performing to such an Island-influenced musical milieu.</div>
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Next we visit Stacy’s debut EP <b><i>Sincerely Yours</i></b> for the track titled "<b>Comfy Little Coffin</b>", which definitely steers in a different direction from what you just heard. The single produced by <b>Cool and Dre </b>- which Stacy recently shot a video for - is the epitome of what a powerful track is and should be. The deep lyrics are of someone who lost a loved one and in the process lost all desire to live as well as she sings, <i>“I’d rather just be alone in my comfy little coffin”</i>. Backed by pronounced guitar arrangements strung harmoniously in a pattern and soft drum kicks, listen to the serene mid-tempo tune below...</div>
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"<b>Never Did</b>", which sadly happens to be less than two minutes long stands as my favorite track off the <b><i>Sincerely Yours</i> EP</b>. Three words to describe this <b>SoundZ</b>-produced track would be ‘pure musical bliss’. In an interview, Stacy said <i>“You can find hurt and pain in my music while finding the light. It represents empowerment. I speak from a very truthful and sincere place… with love”</i>, which is very apparent on this song. I urge you to listen to the softly sung ballad - which almost sounds like the female version of a Frank Ocean record - backed by soft drums and deft keyboards all brought together beautifully by Stacy's amazing vocals.</div>
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It would have been simple to plug in so many other tracks from the sublime Stacy Barthe since I am yet to be disappointed by any song that I’ve heard from the uber amazing artist. From the Frank Ocean-featured "<b>Without You</b>" to "<b>No Strings Attached</b>" which features John Legend, I say go ahead and cop both the <b><i>Sincerely Yours</i></b> and <b><i>In the Inbetween</i></b> EPs (via iTunes below), they are so WORTH it. Stacy is currently working on her debut album and judging from the quality of work she has put out so far, a number one album looks very likely.</div>
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Keep tabs on Stacy Barthe: <a href="http://www.stacybarthe.com/">Website</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/stacybarthe">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stacy-Barthe/202154889804608">Facebook</a></div>
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Purchase: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/sincerely-yours-stacy-barthe/id489044997"><b><i>Sincerely Yours</i></b> (iTunes)</a></div>
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Purchase: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/in-the-inbetween/id501104709"><i><b>In The Inbetween</b></i> (iTunes)</a></div>
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TemiY</div>
</div>TemiYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09429330662526760057noreply@blogger.com0