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Reviews
KJ - ‘Deep Within the Skin’ Released: 7th July (digital release) Label: Savage Trax Records
Reading into the background of Kevin Jon, I can't not mention the fact that he is a patron for 'No Panic', as he himself suffered from panic attacks. Therefore, credit for courage and commitment has to be given outside of this track. The single itself has a bit of an 80's electro vibe, and a feel of Timbalake's 'Apologise', not a bad thing for us! It's definitely along the R&B track but with more to it than that, don't be put off if that isn't your bag.
The Steeples Single – Loosy Lucy Label: Blue Thumb Stockist: Amazon
The Crimea 'The 48a Waiting Steps'
You may say ‘So what do I know’, but the vocals here are reminiscent of the God that is Richard Ashcroft, and that’s a good opening line to a review. Poetic lyrics and music to take over your mind make this heavenly to us. Hard to pigeonhole, this is quite simply, The Crimea – keep listening.
Beth Rowley Single – So Sublime Label: Blue Thumb Stockist: Amazon
Right, there’s no point us saying how much we love Beth’s music, as previous reviews have shown our respect fully. We are thrilled to bits we now have an album to indulge in, especially as it’s as classy as we expected. So to the single, ‘So Sublime’, an up beat, almost country and western style song, but with Beth’s vocal the star of the show as always. We feel this will be the one that propels her way up there, and as that’s where she belongs, we feel that’s well justified.
Very Best of The Osmonds Universal Stockist: Amazon
As the youngest of three, I grew up to my eldest brother playing The Osmonds constantly, and even dressing the same to impress! This is where successful compilations succeed, by not only appealing to the original fans, but also to those whose lives were touched by the music in some way. There’s an easy way to sum this CD up – it starts with ‘Crazy Horses’ and ends with Marie’s ‘Paper Roses’ and with Jimmy’s ‘Long Haired Lover From Liverpool’ in there too, nothing has been left out.
Jason Mraz - 'I’m Yours' Stockist: Amazon
This is what we would call a smiler of a song, one of those that lift your mood through just listening to it. A very fresh sound and up tempo beat mix with the sensual yet quirky voice of the artist, a combination that we just happen to love. We also happen to think you will too, and with an album soon to be released, we eagerly await to find out if every track is as pleasant as this single.
matchbox twenty - 'These Hard Times' Label: Melisma/Atlantic records Stockist: Amazon
Taken from their ‘Exile on Mainstream’ album, ‘These Hard Times’ is, well, mainstream. It’s a pleasant song, its quality stands out, it’s easy to listen to, and has strong vocals – all good. But, for us, it’s a bit American rock, and a tad laid back. It’s definitely listenable, and demonstrates strong song writing talent, as if Matchbox Twenty needed to prove that, but doesn’t stand out from the crowd. Good, but not memorable.
The Mixtape Label: Warner Stockist: Amazon
Kiss have a top reputation that ensures the quality of any CD it is associated with. The best of R&B is mixed here by Shortee Blitz giving non stop satisfaction. A CD starting with Estelle’s ‘American Boy’ then continuing with Justin Timberlake ‘Sexyback’, has sold it already. Go the classic 2nd CD, start it with Alicia Keys ‘Girlfriend’, followed by Ne-Yo ‘Sexy Love’, and this is one to add to the collection.
The Eagles - 'The Complete Greatest Hits' Label: Warner Stockist: Amazon
The Eagles are easy listening at it’s best. Sit, relax, turn up the volume and just feel good about stuff. There’s a whopping 33 tracks, including the totally awesome ‘Hotel California’, the classy ‘Desperado’ , ‘Take it Easy’, ‘Lyin’ Eyes’ and a lot more besides. Worth buying, in our opinion, for ‘Hotel California’ alone.
Johnny Hates Jazz - 'Turn Back the Clock' Label: Virgin/EMI records Stockist: Amazon
The 80’s revival continues, with Johnny Hates Jazz sneaking in with their debut in 1987. We were there, so remember that they are worth their re-introduction. Songs like ‘Shattered Dreams’, and ‘Turn Back the Clock’ were worthy chart entries, and their forthcoming inclusion on the ‘Here and Now’ tour will be welcome news to their adoring fans. To coincide with this, their debut album is back, and fully remastered too.
Dance Party 2 Label: UMTV Stockist: Amazon
David Garrett Virtuoso Label: UCJ Music Stockist: Amazon
Esther O’Connor Right Here Stockist: Amazon
Esther O’Connor has music quite literally in her blood, with her dad being a member of Wet, Wet, Wet. The album has a definite Celtic vibe, with surreal vocals dominating each track. A mixture of lively and slower tracks make this an album to be enjoyed from start to finish. ‘Honesty’ is a melting song that shows Esther’s vocal talent off to perfection, whilst ‘All right, right now’, has a more rocky vibe which demonstrates her versatility. This is a fresh album and well worth a listen – definitely an album to be enjoyed.
Yael Naim & David Donatien 'Yael Naim' album/‘New Soul'’ single Stockist: Amazon
Buy this now! We could end the review there, so impressed are we by both single and album. This is music that you drown in, utterly and totally absorbed by it's beauty. You will immediately recognise 'New Soul' from the Macbook Air ad on TV, and it's quirky, upbeat charm makes it a song you will quickly become addicted to. However, the album consists of an array of brilliant songs. The opening track, 'Paris', is haunting and charming in equal measurs, oozing quality with every note. Also watch out for a very different (and in our opinion, much better!) version of Britney's 'Toxic'. Buy it, love it, treasure it forever - we simply love it all.
Gatecrasher:Sheffield Mixed by Ferry
Corsten Stockist: Amazon
Just seeing Ministry of Sound on a label is a pretty good indicator of what to expect. Add to the pot Gatecrasher and Ferry Corsten and you are talking trance heaven. Our favourites here are Ferry Corsten Feat. Howard Jones – Into The Dark (Ferry Fix) from CD1 and Seth Hutton Feat. Judie Tzuke – Don’t Look Behind You (Mike Shivers Catching Sun Mix) from CD2, but there’s also another 22 tracks for you to raise your hands high to.
Psy Trance Euphoria Mixed by John 00 Fleming Label: Ministry of Sound Stockist: Amazon
This 3 CD set sees DJ & producer John “00” Fleming and a monster collection of Psy-Trance. This fairly recent addition to the electro dance scene has a classy edge that it is easy to lose yourself in. Tracks by Ace Ventura and Fatali, to name but two, blend with John’s original tracks, mix and you have an album offering something different than the norm.
Beth Rowley - 'Oh my life' Label: Blue Thumb Stockist: Amazon
With Beth’s 2nd single, our admiration hasn’t dwindled. This rhythmic number with quirky chords, mixed with her sublime vocal had us in raptures.Thank goodness for the imminent release of an album! This type of song unites generations, and we are right up there as stalker fans.
Real Love
Publisher: Universal Stockist: Amazon
Love CDs can be dodgy – a compilation of ballads that appeal only to a certain age group is not everybody’s idea of romance. Luckily, this won’t disappoint. Take That’s ‘Rule The World’, The Feeling ‘Love It When You Call’, and our fave, Timbaland Feat. OneRepublic ‘Apologize’, make this something just a little bit special – well, fab actually!
Blake - 'Hallelujah'
Publisher: UCJ Stockist: Amazon
OK, this isn’t my bag, but this is an admirable piece of music, written be Leonard Cohen and originally performed by Jeff Buckley. Sung acappella, the standard of singing stops you in your tracks, and the song has the vibe of an anthem, a song that will be played at sports stadiums and the like for years to come. Yes, I like this and lots of others will do too.
Delirium Volume 2 Label: Ministry of Sound Stockist: Amazon
Mixed by the one and only Dave Pearce, a legend in his field for many years, this double CD sparkles from the first track to the very last. With Onova’s ‘Platitude’, Breakfast’s ‘The Horizon’ and our fave, Sebastian Brandt’s ‘Technology’, this is a sure fire winner with enough beat to satisfy a nation.
Essential Acoustic Love Label: Warner Stockist: Amazon
A CD compilation that starts with Michael Buble has us won over- add in tracks like Paolo Nutini ‘Loving You’, Extreme ‘More than Words’ and Judy Collins ‘Desperado’ and you have class personified. Take a chill pill, relax, and enjoy being in love (or being loved).
Rascal Flatts 'Rascal Flatts' album/‘What
Hurts the Most’ single Stockist: Amazon
This is one of America’s top bands, and they are looking to make it in the UK with the release of both a single and self titled album. There is no doubting the calibre of music here – a mix of genres make a classy blend that is easy n the ear. All the tracks are very reminiscent of US music but with added quality which add to the appeal. We would compare them, albeit indirectly, to ‘The Eagles’ but for the here and now, but that’s not a bad comparison to make! Whilst we don’t see they will reach the same fame here as back at home, they are certainly a very listenable sound, well worth a listen.
Duran Duran- 'Red Carpet Massacre' Label: RCA Stockist: Amazon
If you have listened to Duran Duran’s early albums, you will see some similarities coming through in this latest offering. It is no mean feat to keep your sound fresh whilst keeping your original fans equally satisfied, but it has definitely been managed. The single ‘Falling Down’ is an outstanding track but look out also for our favourites, ‘Box Full O’Honey’ and ‘She’s Too Much’. This is their best album since the height of their fame.
Beth Rowley - 'Violets' Label: Blue Thumb/Universal Stockist: Amazon
With the smoothest of voices but with a quirky tone that stops you in your tracks, Beth Rowley is one to watch. Not only does she ooze individual style with her look, her songs are different than the majority of stuff recently released. A love of music is evident immediately and we just can’t see this failing on any level. Beth quotes PP Arnold and the Ronettes as inspirations, and if you transfer a love for that to 2007, you can get where she’s at right now.
Duran Duran- 'Falling Down' Label: RCA Stockist: Amazon
Duran Duran are a band that throughout their career have always managed to retain music credibility and always come back with a well worked, likeable track. This track keeps the Duran Duran quality and style whilst engaging with a younger audience, especially with the likes of Timbaland and Justin Timberlake having a hand in it. They sound as good as ever, look as good as ever, and we can’t stop playing the track – that’s real praise!
Peter Cincotti Stockist: Amazon
Tori White 'Please Remember' Stockist: Amazon
We are firm believers in believing the sacrifices our soldiers make in war should never, ever be forgotten, and so a single especially release for the event gets a massive thumbs up, especially with proceeds going to the Poppy Appeal. Tori White is the perfect voice to span generations and match that with poignant lyrics and a meaningful tune, let’s hope this raises not only a bundle, but awareness of both war, and Tori’s vocal talents.
Jade Gallagher Stockist: Amazon
Oh, this is yummy quality stuff. Jade’s voice is exquisite, her guitar playing similar, and the album is full of that girl/guitar mix that is so popular at the moment – think Katie Melua but with more depth. It is clear she lives for her music and as she is classically trained, knows her stuff! We loved the third track ‘Iris’ – the beginning was reminiscent of The Beatles ‘Here Comes the Sun’, and as Jade is from Liverpool, that’s very apt.
Laura Critchley 'Sometimes I' Stockist: Amazon
Some people are born to bring joy to others through their singing – such a person is Laura Critchley. She has a voice that melts – the depth is, in our opinion, reminiscent of LeAnn Rimes. The single ‘What Do We Do’ is a clear, crisp ballad that sums up the other songs on the album well. This is a quality album, perfect for those who love to hear the voice of an outstanding singer above all else.
The Rolling
Stones Stockist: Amazon
As a bit of a Beatles fanatic, the Rolling Stones have passed me by – my mistake! This collection of 40 tracks is brilliant stuff – lots of the tracks I didn’t even realise were theres, and the classics sound so much more genius in the comfort of your own space than on a brief radio slot. I have humbly changed my opinion and can totally understand why The Rolling Stones are one of the most influential bands of our time.
Luther Vandross 'Love, Luther' Stockist: Amazon
Do you know a Luther Vandross fan? If so, this will make their dreams come true. There are a whopping 4 cds in this set, making over 4 hours of music, 56 songs and complete with a presentation booklet. The cover is the colour of purple velvet, and velvet is the perfect description for Luther’s voice. As the title suggests, this is a love album, so except high quality, addictive songs that will make you feel warm and fuzzy all over.
LeAnn Rimes ‘Family’ Stockist: Amazon
The girl has most definitely matured into a woman, and with it, has definitely defined herself as a country star. This is not a negative, as her songs are contemporary, classy and flawless. There is a definite Bon Jovi ‘Wanted Dead or Alive’ guitar feel to a lot of the tracks, again, something that is a plus point for us, and this helps bridge musical genre gaps. LeAnn Rimes never fails to deliver, and this is no exception.
Wet Wet Wet Stockist: Amazon
The album title says it all – as long as the ridiculously perfect voice of Marti Pellow is there, Wet Wet Wet can’t fail. This new outing comes after a long period of disbanding and new ventures, but we are sure the fan base will remain as loyal. The single ‘Too Many People’, is a medium paced song with Pellow’s vocals and the band’s usual sound as dominant as ever. The rest of the album is full of similar, and a real showcase for what they are capable of.
Paul Leonard Morgan 'Filmtales' Stockist: Amazon
If you really love music, you’ll really love this! This is breath taking stuff and quite simply the best we’ve heard in ages, for originality, for musical talent and just sheer listening pleasure. The first track ‘Wilderness’ oozes quality and totally sets the scene for future tracks. We felt trapped within seconds and didn’t want the CD to end. There is nothing like a ‘dodgy’ track on here that you may be tempted to fast forward. Impossible to pin point in style and impossible to ignore, this CD is sheer bliss.
Puggy 'Dubois Died Today' Stockist: Amazon
Sometimes a CD comes along and literally thumps you so hard, you can’t catch your breath – this is the feeling on first listening to Puggy. Their songs are not just music, but more like an epic novel with the most enchanting chords and rhythms intertwined. The guitar playing is fresh, the singing has a genuine passion and if, like us, you like a quirky minor chord mixed in, you will be as addicted as we are. This is more than Indie, and whilst we have tried to find a comparison, thankfully we haven’t, making Puggy just independently wonderful.
matchbox twenty Stockist: Amazon
matchbox twenty are one of those bands who I’ve known exist for a long time, but have never taken the time to find out what they are about. I’m glad I’ve now done so! ‘How Far We’ve Come’ is great music - mature song writing that is easy on the ear and makes you sit up and listen. Destined to attract new fans as well as please the old, it has a rightful place on the hits collection ‘Exile on Mainstream’. I’m a new fan, and will be getting the album to see what I’ve been missing out on.
Anemo - 'Pray' Stockist: Amazon
If you like your music to rock, admire poignant lyrics and want a song that gets into your head, look no further- once played, never forgotten, and all the better for being played at full whack. The song is based on what happened to the reporter John Simpson when his convoy, including US Special Forces, were bombed by friendly fire. The message is clear and the music highly addictive. Watch out for the introduction that is reminiscent of the Sisters of Mercy and listen to the Ropey Remix too – class!
Lucky Twice - 'Lucky' Label: UMTV/Apollo Website: www.umtv.co.uk/luckytwice Stockist: Amazon
Always listen to the whole of a track - what started off as a quite a Euro-pop style single, soon developed into something more with a classy chorus line that helps it stand out from the crowd. As an eighties chick, the sound is vaguely reminiscent of ‘The Buggles’ (Video killed the Radio Star) and comparisons with ‘Tatu’ are pretty obvious. However, this is far, far fresher, and catchy without being annoying. It’s easy to see why Lucky Twice are predicted for Euro mega stardom.
Peter Grant - 'Traditional' Label: Universal Records Website: www.petergrant.co.uk Stockist: Amazon
Find out where your repeat button is as you’re likely to want to play this again and again. ‘Traditional’, the title track from the new album and the new single, is as smooth as smooth can be. The voice is perfection and literally warms through your senses. Classic tracks such as ‘That’s Life’ and ‘How Glad I am’ are effortless and blend in easily with the newer tracks. Jazz is becoming more mainstream by the day and it could well be that Peter Grant is the man to take it to a younger and more mass audience.
Tori White - ‘You don’t scare me at all’ Website: www.myspace.com/toriwhitemusic Stockist: Amazon
Gabrielle Stockist: Amazon
When careers last for as long as Gabrielles with no dip in polularity, you know you are guaranteed a high quality song. Gabrielle’s 5th album is even classier than ever with a sound that oozes maturity and confidence. The single ‘Why’ is based on a sample of Paul Weller’s ‘Wild Wood’, with the icon himself on guitar and backing vocals. I saw Gabrielle singing this on TV and saw a singer happy with where she was at – this comes through in every album track.
Natalie Imbruglia - ‘Glorious’ Website: www.natalieimbruglia.com Stockist: Amazon
Natalie was probably the first soap star turned singer who managed to instantly become accepted when ‘Torn’ became a massive worldwide hit. She has managed to stay credible in everything she does including acting and being the face of L’Oreal, with music always being up there. The release of her greatest hits album, with such tracks as ‘Big Mistake’ and ‘Shiver’, coincides with the single ‘Glorious’. ‘Glorious’ is a carefree song which oozes class and reminds us of why she made the transition from TV to successful recording artist with such ease.
Barry Manilow - 'The Greatest Songs of the Seventies' Website: www.barrymanilow70s.co.uk Stockist: Amazon
The man is a legend, and on this CD we have not only his finest hits of that era like ‘Copacabana’ and ‘Mandy’, but also classics like ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ and ‘Solitaire’. All are re recorded in a way that shows his true talent and even though we aren’t of that era, we’re happy to play this at full volume – listen and admire!
The Proclaimers - 'Life with you' Label: W14 Music Stockist: Amazon
Following the success of their comic relief single with Peter Kay, The Proclaimers have decided now is the time to make a comeback. Being a fan the first time round, this is welcome news, but does this new album crack the mustard? Yes, yes and yes again. From the opening and title track ‘Life With You’, the light, feel good music continues to flow. The Proclaimers always made me smile lots, and they have not lost any of that ability. We love it, and will be catching them on tour too!
The Puppini Sisters- 'The Rise And Fall Of Ruby Woo' Label: Universal Classics and Jazz Stockist: Amazon
Wow!! A love of jazz is in my blood but previously not a genre of choice. All change! This is pure bliss on a disc. The singing is so crisp and pure you will probably quite literally melt. Puppini Sisters versions of such classics as ‘Walk Like an Egyptian’ and ‘Could it be Magic’, for example, are far more than album padding but examples of genius, and there’s far more besides. If I can go from rock chick to jazz babe in one listen, its appeal is certainly far reaching. We want more, and will be visiting what we’ve already missed prompto!
David Guetta - Poplife Label: Gum Stockist: Amazon
Ok, it’s true to say we get a fair few CDs to review and we’re lucky in the fact that we get pretty good stuff, but every so often one comes along that knocks you off your feet – welcome to ‘Poplife’. Slick vocal, addictive backgrounds and up tempo beats put a smile on your face and a feel good factor in your soul. There is nothing forced or pretentious, just a fresh sound oozing admirable skill. I’d hate to pigeon hole this sound as its appeal is far reaching. Voting is now open for the annual global DJ Magazine Top 100. If David Guetta is YOUR favourite DJ, click here to vote for him.
http://www.djmag.com/index.php?op=top100dj&top100dj_op=vote
Stephanie McIntosh - 'So do I say sorry first' Label: Universal Records Stockist: Amazon
http://umguk.vice-versa.info/v-v/070611101156
Stephanie McIntosh - 'Tightrope' Label: Universal Records Stockist: Amazon
We really like this! From the latest single opening things up, it never dips. Each track is solid in it’s own right and the title track ‘Tightrope’ has a sound that definitely draws you further in. We especially have a soft spot for ‘A change is Coming’ – lots of major/minor vibes to get lost in. At twelve tracks long, this is all new and fresh and leaves you feeling that Stephanie wanted this for herself and certainly isn’t cashing in on her TV fame and family connections. A worthy debut album.
The Sheilas – (I’m So) Happy Happy (You’re Mine) www.thesheilasoffocial.com/www.pwl-empire.com Stockist: Amazon
As you would expect from the hugely successful commercial that appeals to all ages, this is a poppy, bouncy and fun offering. The easy option would have been to release the single from the advert, but it’s refreshing that they’ve chosen to go out on a limb. It is one of those catchy, can’t get it out of your head even if you try, tunes that kids especially will love. However, underneath than that, there’s a club type vibe that may well seal a stream of further hits.
Dance Mania 2 Label:UMTV Stockist: Amazon
45 tracks over 2 CDs is serious cramming of quality tunes into one purchase and there are lots of superb tracks included, pretty much something for everyone. CD 1 takes you from Cascada, through the fab Mika with ‘Love Today’ to the icon that is Gwen Stefani. Change to CD 2 for this years record breaker Rihanna’s ‘Umbrella’, Fergie’s ‘Glamorous’ to Girls Aloud ‘Something Kinda Ooh’. Pretty awesome stuff? Check out the rest!
'The World’s Greatest Electro Club Mix' RRP: £7.99 Label: 'Resist Music' Stockist: Amazon
Resist are masters at making
club and underground music accessible to the masses via track packed
CD compilations at an unbelievable price. This latest outing proudly
continues in the same vain. CD 1 is ‘House Mix’, CD 2 ‘Underground
Mix’ and CD 3 ‘Beats Mix’. Each disc is mixed with
the respect the genre deserves and destined to please the audience it’s
aimed at, from Chicken Lips ‘He Not In’, to Oxia ‘Change
Works’ and ending in Dylan Rhyme’s ‘Muzika’.
Skilfully mixed for your pleasure, there’s no need to resist in
any shape or form.
Joe Satriani - Surfing With The Alien Label:Sony BMG Stockist: Amazon
Twenty years since it’s first release, ‘Surfing With The Alien’ is now remastered and released on CD, with bonus DVD containing previously unreleased live footage. Awesome guitar playing mean it stands just as tall and relevant today as it did then. It is rock and just fantastic at full blast, but it is really, really good music too and would easily span other genres. We especially loved ‘Crushing Day’ which was eerily reminiscent of early arcade games and brought great memories of blistered thumbs rushing back.
Twice as Nice:Urban Anthems Label: UMTV Stockist: Amazon
This 3 CD set gives you Hip Hop, Garage & House and R & B in one! Every track is mixed by Scottie B with our utmost faves being Pussycat Dolls featuring Busta Rhymes ‘Don’t Cha’, Bodyrox ‘Yeah Yeah’ and Fatback Band ‘I Found Lovin’. They’re ours – with another 47 tracks besides those your favourites could be likely to be there too.
Helen Jane Long – ‘Porcelain’ Label: 'Warner Classics and Jazz' Stockist: Amazon
We all sometimes yearn for a quality of music that soothes, relaxes and inspires at the same time. Luckily, there is talent in this country to help. Helen Jane Long is a multi talented musician whose music you will probably have already heard from TV ads. This is perfect chill out music when you truly want to indulge yourself for once. When listening, you can’t fail to wonder how one person has such capability and that will hopefully be an inspiration to all. www.myspace.com/helenjanemusic
'R&B Love Collection' Label: 'Universal Music TV' Stockist: Amazon
This is one must have CD! Starting off with “Rihanna ft Jay Z” and the massive hit “Umbrella” sets the pace for track after after of mega music. From ex-Sugababes “Mutya Buena” with ‘Real Girl’ and “Mary J Blige” ‘Family Affair’ on disc one to “Gwen Stefani” with ‘4 In The Morning’ and “Boyz II Men” ‘I’ll Make Love To You’ on Disc Two, this collection will see you not only through the summer but all seasons to come forever and a day.
Hard Energy:Your XXXtreme Night Out Label: 'Ministry of Sound' Stockist: Amazon
Another massive compilation from Ministry of Sound with 3 CDs with 56 serious club tracks. The first 2 discs feature 40 mixes of the best tracks including Cascada’s ‘Miracle’, Fedde Le Grand’s ‘Put your hands up (For Detroit) and Kim Sozzi’s ‘Break Up’. Disc 3 features 15 brand new never been released mixes. What better way to get into that club night mood, weekend or not!
Classic Trance Nation Label: 'Ministry of Sound' Stockist: Amazon
This 3 CD, 54 track compilation will take you back, invigorate and rejuvenate your love of superb music. Disc one opens with the awesome ‘Born Slippy’ by ‘Underworld’ and has ‘Encore Une Fois’ by ‘Sash’. Disc two has Paul Van Dyk and Faithless amongst others and the third disc holds such gems as Olive ‘You’re Not Alone’, and Hybrid. Another music collection must have.
Barbra Streisand - 'Live in Concert 2006' Label:: 'Columbia records' Stockist: Amazon
Jefferson Airplane - 'Sweeping Up the Spotlight: Live at the Fillmore East 1969' Label: Sony BMG Stockist: Amazon
Capturing a band live and bringing that to CD can be either a bit of a disappointment or a real achievement. We have it on great authority that this is the latter – a triumph that captures not only the music but the era. It was the Summer of Love and ‘Fillmore East’ was akin to ‘Glastonbury’. Unbelievable to think this was nearly 40 years ago, it is an era and music that feels very relevant to today, and not merely exclusive to people over a certain age.
'The World’s Greatest Ibiza Club Mix' RRP: £7.99 Label: 'Resist Music' Stockist: Amazon
Yes, summer’s here and the time is right for blastin good sounding tunes out at full volume. You won’t get a better summer club vibe from 3 CDs than this. ‘Funky Mix’ starts with Brent Laurennce – Spirit (In Dub) (Jay J’s Moulton Studios Remix) and the feel good feeling begins. Continue the journey into ‘Electro Mix’ for some that intense Ibiza club sound, then head straight on into ‘Deeper Mix’ for when you don’t want that late night/early morning feeling to end.
The Stills – ‘Without Feathers’ Label: Drowned in Sound recordings Stockist: Amazon
Let ‘The Stills’ take you on a musical journey of addictive maturity, that whether they like it or not, transports us back to a Joy Division type vibe but with a dash of happiness. ‘In The Beginning’ is the right track to start off with, not only in name but also in plucky guitar sounds that draw you in to wanting more. By ‘Helicopters’, I had decided this was supreme stuff, and ‘The Stills’ had notched their sound into my psyche. Every track will touch you somewhere, exactly as a classic in the making CD should.
Fantastic Four:Rise of the Silver Surfer Label: Sony BMG Stockist: Amazon
This second instalment has just hit UK cinemas and is being hailed as a very worthy successor to the highly successful first outing. Huge films could not be so without huge soundtracks accompanying them. John Ottoman is a BAFTA winning composer, so you are already guaranteed class. The soundtrack literally comes alive and literally shudders and thunders through your sound system. Get it now and then when the DVD comes out, you will have the ultimate visual and audio partnership.
10 Reasons to Live - ‘Pretty Girls Rule The World’ Label: Easy Money records www.10reasonstolive.com /www.myspace.com/10reasonstolive Stockist: Amazon
The Sonic Hearts – ‘Hold On’ Label: EMI Records Stockist: Amazon
The release of the Liverpool band’s debut single fits in perfectly with festival season. Catchy guitar, crisp vocals and an all over fresh sound will stay in your mind after one hearing, and deservedly so. Their indie Scouse sound is guaranteed to supply a feel good factor worth having. Watch out for a debut album to come and tour dates to follow, including that all essential festival stage.
Sergey - 'Shattered Dreams' Label: Style records Stockist: Amazon
This remix of ‘Jonny Hates Jazz’ hit from the 1980’s has club favourite written all over it. Sergey is Russian and already a superstar in his homeland - ‘Shattered Dreams’ is his first UK single release. This is spot on euro type pop that once it gets into your head, is not easy to get out. The remix does total justice to the original and stands proud at its side. Be prepared to let it into your brain.
TLC - 'Crazy Sexy Hits' Label: Sony BMG Stockist: Amazon
Before Destiny’s Child, another girl group were the coolest chicks on the block and just as iconic. ‘Waterfalls’ is an unforgettable track that is as slick as they come, through to 'No Scrubs' which defined the beginning of a new era of female R&B. Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes life may have been headline stuff from start to tragic end, but so was the band’s music, making this one of those definite must haves.
'Headliners – The Ultimate Festival Line-Up' Label: Sony BMG Stockist: Amazon
It’s that time of year again where life suddenly seems brighter. From the very first track, ‘Same Jeans’ by ‘The View’, this is pure festival with that carefree vibe running throughout. Grab a piece of festival action without waiting 90 minutes for a wee and bathing in mud for 72 hours with the likes of the fantastic ‘Kasabian’, the iconic ‘Stereophonics’ and stalwarts such as ‘Primal Scream’ and ‘Faithless’ to keep that feeling going forever and a day. A supreme collection of must have tracks.
'Classic School of Rock' Label: 'Universal Music TV' Stockist: Amazon
A selection of serious rock classics that will never go out of style. From ‘Kiss’ to ‘Alice Cooper’, ‘Motorhead’ to ‘Black Sabbath’, every track is a winner – all 37 of them. This CD shouldn’t be only the domain of a certain generation, but for all who appreciate great music. Every music collection deserves this CD.
'Over The Rainbow' Label: UCJ music Stockist: Amazon
Give Anneka Rice a challenge, and she rises to the occasion. The result this time is a CD of ever popular songs sung by ever popular artists with proceeds going towards children’s hospices. The advantage of these charity type compilations is that in years to come, you’ll be wanting to play them just as much as today. Artists such as Curtis Stigers and Michael Bolton and songs such as ‘Fly me to the moon’ and ‘No Matter What’ will be here forever. There’s something to suit everybody and even if not, just help those who truly can’t help themselves.
Stephanie McIntosh - 'Mistake' Label: Universal Records Stockist: Amazon
Since receiving this for review, this disc has received some serious hammer – it is addictive stuff. Whilst loathe to make comparisons, on first play we’d describe this as a youthful Avril Lavinge/Kelly Clarkson mix. By the second play, this is purely Stephanie McIntosh, and any thoughts of Sky Mangel have well and truly been blasted. Truth be told, we eagerly await the release of her album. Wicked stuff! Want to see a video clip? Copy and paste this link into your browser http://umguk.vice-versa.info/v-v/070510103341
Gareth Gates - 'Angel On My Shoulder' Label: Universal Records Stockist: Amazon
With this, his second single taken from his soon to be released album, the old Gareth is truly unrecognisable. The sound is mature and full of honesty. Tracks like ‘Angel On My Shoulder’ stay with you for many years, meaningful ballads which are easy to relate to and listen to – you want to play them again and again. It’s bound to be a success and will ultimately lead new fans to buy the album. This is a truly great track. Want to see a video clip? Copy and paste this link into your browser http://umguk.vice-versa.info/v-v/070521152623 Check out Gareth's beloved fish at www.eyetuna.com
Karen Louise - 'Falling' Label: Starfisch Records Stockist: Amazon
Karen Louise has a voice that makes the background music seem insignificant. Its clarity literally draws you in. For those who remember the group ‘Olive’ in the mid 1990’s, Karen Louise’s voice has a similar sensual quality that equals assured success. ‘Falling’ sounds as great on the radio as in a club and has mass appeal. After touring with ‘Journey South’, she is now supporting Simon Webbe, so the release of the single could not be better timed. Watch this space.
Newton Faulkner - 'I need something' Label: 'Ugly Truth Records'
A good singer/song writer with an acoustic guitar seems a sure fire combination to stardom under the current music climate and if Newton Faulkner is part of this trend, then a bright future is well deserved. This is easy on the ear and Newton has a voice that should rightly be heard. The single is ideal for warmer months and oozes feel good factor. The more exposure it gets, the more popular he’ll become – simple. Admirable and thoroughly enjoyable stuff.
'The World's Greatest Hard Dance' RRP: £7.99 Label: 'Resist Music' Stockist: Amazon
The latest in ‘The World’s Greatest’ series is ‘Hard Dance’, 3 slammin CDs containing immense tracks from the past, present and future. All selected and mixed by Simon Eve, watch out in particular (in our humble opinion) for ‘Natural Born Grooves’ – ‘Universal Love’ on Disc 1, ‘BK, Vinylgroover & The Red Hed’ – ‘Unfinished Sympathy’ from Disc 2 and ‘K-Series’ – ‘What Time Is Love’. Those aside, every track is a winner and if this is your bag, you’ll be in Hard Dance heaven at an unbelievable cost. Stormin’ stuff!
Disclaimer: Views expressed are solely those of FromBumptoGrump and their testers and we hold no responsibility for any product malfunction or disappointment! |
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