Author Archives: Olivia

2011- Songs.

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I know I’m doing this too early in the year, but if I do it now- maybe I won’t change my mind. I know I’ll change my mind as soon as I publish this. I’ll hear a song and think, “SHITTING HELL. THAT NEEDS TO GO ON MY LIST!” Hopefully I will gain some self control and not do that. I’m not doing this in any order, however the last song I mention is my song of the year. It’s pretty obvious what song it is. I’ve got a cool story to accompany it too, it’s just given it so much more meaning to me and I love it more than I did before.

Let’s begin :

Dirty Beaches- Lord Knows Best.– When I first heard this, I honestly didn’t think it was something from this year. I just thought it was an old old song being re-released. I was stupidly wrong. Lord Knows Best is taken from Alex’s album Badlands which was released in March this year, it’s such a beautiful album. What I love about this song is how old it feels, the sample on a loop and Alex’s vocals. His voice sounds so desperate, which is what drew me in straight away. I love anything that sounds dark, angry, frustrated and painful. This doesn’t mean I’m some morbid wanker, far from it. I’m just someone who is always drawn to the dark side of things- it just means more to me than hearing something cheerful. However, this is lyrically, not a dark song. It’s about loving one person and nothing/no one else matters. Just this one person. I guess you could call it a love song. Whatever it is, it’s one of the best things I’ve heard this year.

Wye Oak-Civilian.– You know when you hear a song, and you give all your attention to the lyrics? That’s what happened when I first heard Civilian by Wye Oak. The album is just stunning. This song means so much, “I am nothing without pretend. I know my faults, can’t live with them.” It just screams out fragility. The whole song does. It’s almost as if, you can use this song to admit to all your faults- you’re human, and it is how you feel. I adore the build up in the song. Their musicianship is so strong and so inspiring, it’s just so stunning. It’s one of the songs that make me wish I could write something as powerful as this. As far as duos in music go, Wye Oak are one of my favourites.

Widowspeak-Wicked Game.– I know it’s a cover, but it’s so good. I love how haunting they have made it, but at the same time still has the same feel as the original. I usually hate it when a song I love is covered, but this is just stunning from start to finish. The way, “This world is only gonna break your heart” is sung is damn hypnotising. The song makes you feel like you are in some kind of trance. It’s just perfect. If you’ve never listened to them before, start with this cover.

The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart- Heart In Your Heartbreak.– I know this came out late last year, however the track is taken from their second album which came out in March this year. So, I’m going with that. Their album came out at a time that I wish to never go through again. This song was my crutch for 2 months. I used to listen to it to stop myself from feeling like shit and realising…well, I don’t want to make it too personal. Basically, when you think you can’t get over having your heart broken- you actually can. And when you do, you becoming strong and nothing can touch you no more because you have felt so shit, you’ve experienced rock bottom and you will do anything to never feel that way away. I cannot pick out a lyric that I love, because I just adore it all. This song was around when I didn’t know what to do with myself or what to do with how I was feeling.

Novella-The Things You Do.– When you listen to Novella, you wouldn’t be alone in thinking you were listening to a band from LA. They have that gorgeous lo-fi/sufer pop feel to their music. They formed in Brighton and are now based in London. If you love Dum Dum Girls and Best Coast, you are truly going to fall in love with Novella. I hope next year beings them great success because they really do deserve it. This song causes your head to spin and your body to float. It’s so beautiful.

Zola Jesus-Vessel.– I am going to struggle putting this into words because the music Nika creates owns a large part of my heart. Her music is so enthralling and haunting. Everything about her music just makes my soul shake and my head swim. I am constantly in awe of her talent. She’s only 21 years old, she’s so bloody gifted. Hopefully I’m seeing her in November. I’m oretty sure it’s going to be like some kind of religious experience. I have every confidence that her album Conatus is going to be one of the best albums of the year. Her voice is so distinctive and powerful. I love the dark feel in her music. I love how her music can make everything better. I took a walk today and just played her music. It was like I was drifting off into another world. A dreamland. I honestly cannot praise Nika’s talents enough. I really don’t trust anyone who doesn’t like her music. She’s a massive credit to the music industry, I just hope they realise that instead of obsessing over pop stars that contribute nothing.

The Horrors- I Can See Through You.– I could pick any song of theirs, but I Can See Through You is my favourite off Skying lyrically. The album is beautiful, but more on that when I write about my favourite albums of 2011. Faris’ vocals on this song are so strong. The band sound as perfect as ever. So captivating and hypnotising. I know a lot of people are getting into The Horrors based on Still Life. What pisses me off is that they dismissed them during the Strange House era. That album will always be one of my favourites. The raw, brutal sound to it is amazing. The garage rock vibe it has is stunning. However, those that are only just getting into The Horrors have missed out on many years- their loss.

The Kills-The Last Goodbye.– It was close to impossible to pick which song by The Kills I wanted to include. I toyed with the idea of putting Satellite in because I love the reggae electro feel it has. Then I wanted Baby Says because I love it like someone would probably love their child. Then it was Nail In My Coffin. I went through the whole album, until I chose The Last Goodbye. Why did I choose The Last Goodbye? Well, it has the best and my favourite lyric from a song I’ve heard this year. This line describes me better than I could. This line owns my heart. This line makes me feel okay with being a sensitive bugger. The line is of course, “How can I rely on my heart if I break it, with my own two hands.” I read an article about the album before it was released, and they spoke about this song and mentioned the lyrics. When I read that line, I was instantly blown away by the honesty and vulnerabilty in the lyrics. Then I listened to the song. I cried. It was like finding the piece of you that you had missing for so long. I have no idea what will happen when I see this live. I’ll probably want to get on stage and hug Alison. When she sings this, you can see she puts all she has into it. It is so heartbreaking and so perfect. You can take what you want from this song, that’s what I love about The Kills- you can create your own meaning to their songs. If I could thank them personally for this song, I bloody well would.

Florence And The Machine-What The Water Gave Me.– I guess anyone else would pick Shake It Out, but I like to be difficult don’t I. I’m choosing What The Water Gave Me because I love the darkness around it. Shake It Out is beautiful, and it feels like Flo is taking you to Church. The lyrics are haunting and gorgeous. Much like What The Water Gave Me. I love how the song builds and builds, when she sings “Let the only sound be the overflow. Pockets full of stones” it sounds and feels so enchanting and euphoric. All her songs are euphoric. Her music makes you feel free and weightless. That’s why I love her. I cannot express it in a way that you will understand, but that’s as close as I can get right now. Pretty sure Ceremonials will be the best album of the year. October 31st cannot come quick enough.

It’s honestly no surprise what I’ve picked as my favourite song of the year is it? I said it in February and pretty much every other day since. You ready?!

SUMMER CAMP-I WANT YOU. – This is the only song that I have heard this year to have such a grip over me. It’s done something to my brain. I have to listen to it every single day. If I don’t, I get the shakes (I don’t really….) Elizabeth and Jeremy have created the best song of the year EASILY. I know I love Flo and The Kills but this is honestly the greatest thing I have heard this year. No other song has had this hold over me. The lyrics, oh jesus, the lyrics. So true! It states exactly being in love is like- cruel, intense, dark and grand. Being love can turn you into a dickhead sometimes can’t it. However, if you listen to I Want You, you can see it isn’t always the case. Some have said it’s the stalker anthem of 2011. I don’t think it is. I think it’s quite simply, intensely liking/loving and wanting someone; and you just want them to feel the same. You believe you can make them feel the same. The synths, the guitar and the drums…oh lord. When it drops and kicks in it is like a glorious kick in the face. I’ve only been in love for real once. It’s more than enough isn’t it? If I was to ever feel that way again, I’d use this song to clarify how I felt. I’d play it and think “Does this person make me feel like this?” And if the answer was yes, it’d be love. If the answer was no, then I’d go back to my books and records to save myself disappointment. If any of you listened to BBC 6Music yesterday morning, on Lauren Laverne’s show. They played Better Off Without You and I Want You. I tweeted them saying it was amazing, and Elizabeth replied with, “I was thinking of you when we played I Want You. Not in a weird way.” HOW AMAZING IS THAT? Seriously, so fucking cool. It made my year, no doubt. I’ve decided, if I ever decided to inflict my presence upon a girl and start a relationship, when we split up- I’m going to play Better Off Without You to drag me through it. Oh, I’ve not heard Summer Camp’s album yet but I can tell you it’s the best album of the year. It’s right up there. Trust me. Now, get your ears around my favourite song of the year. If it doesn’t cause your bones to move, heart to skip several beats, your head to spin and your soul to feel reignited- then I think you have no braincells left. Cheers Summer Camp, for making the best song of the year!

I do feel bad for leaving out some songs that I fell in love with this year, so have a few more :

Blood Orange-Sutphin Boulevard.

Marina And The Diamonds-Fear And Loathing.

The History Of Apple Pie-You’re So Cool.

The Weeknd-House Of Balloons/Glass Table Girls.

Lana Del Rey-Blue Jeans.

Seapony-Where We Go.

Best Coast-How They Want Me To Be.

Wavves & Best Coast-Nodding Off.

Morrissey-Action Is My Middle Name.

Youth Lagoon-Montana.

I got carried away….I’m not sorry though.

 

 

 

Florence And The Machine-Shake It Out.

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You know when you hear a song for the first time and it just captures your soul and steals your heart? When you listen to it, you know decades from now you will feel exactly the same as you did when you first heard this song. It becomes something to you that you cannot describe, because no words can actually sum it up. All you know is that this song owns your heart. It’s become a part of you that NO human being can ever EVER come close to. This song just means the world to you. Maybe you’ve had the worst day ever, or maybe you’ve realised a lot of things about yourself- then you hear this song, and everything has changed. It’s like letting everything and everyone go. Sometimes you have to do it. You just do, for your own sanity. Start doing things for yourself dear reader- because no one else will.

I felt like this as soon as I heard Shake It Out by Florence And The Machine today. I felt like some outer body or religious experience sort of thing had taken me over. I always get this feeling when I hear Flo’s voice. It does something to me that no other artist aside from Morrissey can do. She said in an interview that music should be frightening. She’s right, but her music is comforting. It is dark and euphoric. This live is going to have the same reaction Dog Days Are Over has- when everyone just goes totally mental and lets go of all they feel. They lose themselves in this moment. So euphoric, just sheer bliss.

Lyrically, it’s as beautiful as Cosmic Love. It is also quite vulnerable in some respects. I love the line, “And I am done with my graceless heart.” I just want to hug her again and thank her for that line. I love how she can say the things I wish I could, but I don’t have the guts anymore. I have no doubt in my mind that Ceremonials is going to blow us all away come October 31st. Album of the year? Oh go on then.

Oh and does anyone else agree that she NEEDS to write a book of poetry and make an audio CD of it? When she speaks, it’s as beautiful and as enchanting as when she sings.

Amy Winehouse.

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Today would’ve been Amy Winehouse’s 28th birthday, nearly two months have passed and it still doesn’t feel right. It never will feel right. She should still be here blessing us all with her beautiful soulful voice and endearing presence.

As tribute to her on her birthday, a new song with Tony Bennett was given its first play on BBC Radio 2 this morning.

Their voices go so well together. It’s just so beautiful. You can just imagine them in the studio together recording this. It is quite painful to listen to this- but it just shows how amazing she truly was.

Happy Birthday Amy….Wherever you are. xxxx

Tupac Shakur.

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Most think my love for lyrics came from the likes of Morrissey and Bob Dylan. Yes, my mum played them around the house whilst I was growing up. But there was one person who made me fall in love with music and words on a completely different level. His words made me see the world in a way no artist or person ever has. I doubt they ever will.

I own all his albums and when my auntie and uncle came back from New York when they went for the first time many years ago, they brought me back some bootleg mixtapes of his. Tapes, not CDs.

The person is Tupac Amaru Shakur (or birth name Lesane Parish Crooks.) Today is the 15th year anniversary of his untimely death. To some, they just dismissed his music and labelled him trouble, a thug. Those that took the time out to listen to his words, realised he was a poet. Thing is, he’s more than a poet.

A lot of his lyrics I can relate to, I know what you’re thinking. How could someone like me relate to his words? Easily, because I dug deep enough to see his music wasn’t about the same generic bullshit many accuse rap music to posses.

His words poured out so much emotion from love to hate to frustration to joy to abandonment to rage. Every emotion that was humanly possible to feel, he felt and he projected it so majestically in most of his work.

I’m drawn to people who are close to their family, especially their mum. I firmly believe that the relationship you have with your mum is the most sacred thing ever. She’s the only person who will love you no matter what, she will never judge. I guess this is why when I first heard Dear Mama by Tupac, it just meant so much. To hear him say all these things to his mum, I’d never heard it before. It showed that he was such a sensitive soul, regardless of how the media portrayed him- those who pay attention to his lyrics saw how wise, soulful, passionate and honest he was. It breaks my heart knowing he’s not here, I know it’s been 15 years- but you don’t forget. He died a year after my dad died; I remember seeing MTV News with the headline saying he had died like it was yesterday. Throughout the years I’ve bought all the books written about him, I’ve got VHS tapes of documentaries, his poetry book, albums and mixtapes. I don’t collect these things because it could be of worth one day. I collect them because it keeps his memory alive. He’s the only rapper to have truly had this affect on me. How his words affect me are different to different artists I love such as Morrissey and Lou Reed. See, they can paint pain in such an eloquent manner. Tupac didn’t, he wrote about it in the rawest sense.

The tragedy is, he envisioned his own death. When I hear certain songs, it makes you just want to reach out to him and say it doesn’t have to be this way. I guess some people are placed on this Earth to do certain things in a specific amount of time- like Angels walking the Earth and we only appreciate them when they are gone. It’s always the way.

I absolutely adore his song Runnin’ (Dying To Live) the chorus is so ridiculously fucking heartbreakingly brutal, “You know, I wonder if they’ll laugh when I am dead. Why am I fighting to live, if I’m just living to fight. Why am I trying to see, when there ain’t nothing insight. Why I am I trying to give, when no one gives me a try.” It doesn’t matter who you are or where you are from- you cannot deny you have never felt this way before. Maybe more times than you wish to admit to yourself, its okay; you’re not alone. The frustration in the chorus is so easy to relate to.

His lyrics were not all about degrading women at all. His music spoke up about social injustice, his own problems, racism- he touched on everything. He was one of the most intelligent rappers ever. He was inspired by the Black Panther Party to Niccolo Machiavelli- whose work influenced him to adapt the alter-ego Makaveli.

How many rappers can say that he influenced them? Hardly any. The album he released under this name, The 7 Day Theory is easily his darkest work, and possibly one of the darkest rap albums created. He had a way of describing the darkest of subjects that could break the hardest of hearts.

His debut album, 2Pacalypse Now is so politically charged- it was no surprised that the shitstain of life, Dan Quayle tried to get the album banned. Too honest for you? Can’t handle the truth? You cannot shut someone up, especially when they are someone like Tupac. 2Pacalypse now touched on so many topics from racism to police brutality to teen pregnancy.

The song Brenda’s Got A Baby was Tupac’s first debut single and was about a teenage pregnancy. The song as influenced by a 12 year old girl who got pregnant by her cousin- as she didn’t want her family to know, she threw the baby away. There’s a part in the song that just shows how Tupac could write a song about something so painful in a way that just leaves you in awe. “…she had it on the bathroom floor. And didn’t know so, she didn’t know, what to throw away and what to keep. She wrapped the baby up and threw him in the trash heap.” No one else has ever EVER written anything as hard-hitting as that. It wouldn’t seem right if anyone else did, they couldn’t make you imagine it as harshly as Tupac did.

I honestly could not pick my favourite track by Tupac, he had so many. From official releases to unfinished demos, he was probably the hardest working rapper ever. He said things most were afraid to say. He wasn’t afraid to speak up and say when something was wrong. That’s what I took from his work- to never be afraid. To never be afraid to be honest, to speak up when you see something wrong. If someone is going to hate me for being honest and being vocal about something that is wrong- then so be it. I’ll keep doing it. Tupac taught me so much. I hate how personal I get with my writing, but his music saved me throughout secondary school. From the day I started to the day I left- I was bullied. I constantly felt worthless and like shit, but his words provided so much comfort. His words made me feel like, things could get better. I wrote my first song when I was 13 (I just write- I can’t sing or play an instrument.) He channelled how he felt through writing- which is what I did. There’s a suitcase of old notebooks at my mum’s under my bed full of all my old notebooks with songs and poems I have written. I still write now. His way with words made me write my own stuff. There will never be another rapper like him, ever. He had this gift that made you want to know him and be around him.

15 years on, and it still doesn’t seem real. But we have his words and music. He created a legacy that will never fade away.

Thank you Tupac, for your words and music. R.I.P.

Summer Camp- Better Off Without You (Video.)

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My favourite duo have put out the video to their new single, Better Off Without You. As you know, I Want You has been my main obsession this year. I play it every single day, it’s just so perfect. Song of the year? No doubt.

The video has a lovely 70s feel to it, it’s shot so beautifully.

Oh and….Remember, remember the 31st October- their debut album comes out!

The single is out now, SUPPORT IT!

Chillwave?!

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I’ve only cared about two sub-genres of music ;  Shoegaze and Riot Grrrl. The latter isn’t really a sub-genre is it? More of a movement. One that was much needed, and it still needed.  I still hope a wave of it takes over once again booting out all the shit in the music industry. Until then, I’ll just scream along with Kathleen Hanna in the comfort of my own home. It’s frowned upon whilst on a bus or train….apparently.

Over the past year and a bit a sub-genre has emerged. Some have dismissed it without listening, some claim it doesn’t exist and some actually love it. Now, those that are a fan of this sub-genre are frequently called “hipsters” and no feck all. I’m not a hipster and I’m pretty intelligent. So HA! In your FACE dumb music critics who slag things off just to look “cool.” I may rant, stick with me. I’ll try to keep on topic.

Chillwave. Where does one begin when talking about Chillwave. Yeah, the start would probably be wise. It all began a few years ago in America. As America has legit Summers- they can probably capture the Summer vibe, sunshine and beaches feel to their music better than an English band. Summer was a lovely day in England. Chillwave has a very 80s feel to it. Synths, electro, slightly distorted sound. I love it. I’m not sure why. I do think it could be that when I hear a GOOD Chillwave based act, I feel like I am sitting on a beach staring out at the sea- thinking about nothing and everything at the same time. Trust me, this happens about 5 times a day. Real life, you truly bore me.

I’m going to give you some artists that I love that fall into the Chillwave category. They should make you feel like you are floating and that nothing can touch you. I want you to listen to these songs and think about nothing and no one. The last thing/person you thought of- forget it/them. From now until you’ve listened to these songs- nothing matters.

I’ll start with one act that is probably one of the best Chilwave acts. Even those who dislike Chillwave love this guy.

Ernest Greene aka Washed Out has put out one of the best albums of the year. Within And Without is a close to perfection album, and he’s one of the stand-out acts in the Chillwave scene. His atmospheric tone just eases your soul. It’s pissing down with rain outside, but as I listen to his music- it just sends me off to some place beautiful. If you come to dislike Chillave music, I do hope you reserve some love for Washed Out as he’s truly wonderful.

Lay Bac’s music feels like a carnival, it’s just so joyful. Out of all the Chillwave artists I’ve been listening to for the past year or so, this guy is probably my number one. There’s something slightly different to his sound compared to others. His music feels like waves crashing as you watch from a cliff. It’s got this euphoric feel to it, I just love his sound a hell of a lot.

Blackbird Blackbird were another musical discovery at around 3am a while ago. That’s when I usually find new music to fall in love with. In under 3 minutes, this song defines Summer. The bass-line in this song is just simply gorgeous. It doesnt ripple through your chest, it just rocks your heart ever so gently. The music that Blackbird Blackbird create is so soothing and gentle. You just get this warm feeling inside when you listen to it.

If Beach House made a Chillave record, it would sound like this. Youth Lagoon’s take on Chillwave is much more emotional. That’s just what I take from it. I love the lyrics to July, “If I had never let go, then only God knows where I would be now. I made a bridge between us then I slowly burned it.” Aside from The Last Goodbye by The Kills, this song has my favourite lyric this year. It’s just a wonderfully haunting song, and his music is beautiful.

Okay, so Soft Powers isn’t Chillwave but I just wanted an excuse to include him. Who would’ve thought someone that was once in a Post-Hardcore band could create something like this? That’ll teach you to judge! If you like MGMT and Empire Of The Sun, you’ll love this.

I was reluctant to mention Teen Daze as I personally don’t regard them as Chillwave, but after going further into their career- they do have some aspects of it. For Paulina is their most Chillwave-type of song I think, it’s also one of my favourites. Saviour is a beautiful track, but For Paulina- the first time I heard it, I fell in love. For those less curious to explore Chillwave, listen to Teen Daze.

As somone is slowly growing tired of seeing people stand on a stage with an acoustic guitar singing awful love songs, I’m accepting Chillwave with open arms. The feel in the music is more haunting and distorting- the only person who could make an acoustic song sound haunting was Townes Van Zandt. Those NOW that stand about with an acoustic guitar just sing the same whiney songs, I don’t want to hear it anymore. With the dark nights coming early, I want to hear something that doesn’t make my bones feel cold and my soul tired. I’ll stick with Chillwave and Lo-Fi/Surfer-Pop. Oh, and I can’t be called one of those “Hipsters.” I don’t buy my clothes from charity shops- I think I’d feel uncomfortable knowing someone had died in what I was wearing. Oh, and just because it has a rip in it- doesn’t mean it is vintage. Stop wearing those MASSIVE glasses, you have 20/20 vision. Stop pouting in your photographs, you look like a dick.

GOOD EVENING!

The Kills-Midnight Boom.

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I was doing a work placement a month before Midnight Boom came out, and whilst I was there Midnight Boom was constantly played. Before it was released, I knew every word to every song. My obsession with The Kills has been huge ever since the first time I heard their first album, Keep On Your Mean Side. Midnight Boom just catapulted it to great heights, and I know that there is no coming down from this. I don’t ever want to, if I’m honest.

The album opens with U.R.A. Fever, one of the best singles The Kills have ever put out. I’m not fussed on the singles bands put out, I prefer albums. I love having a collection of songs. Luckily, The Kills are perfect so I don’t have to worry about ever feeling disappointed with any release. Besides, they put Black Balloon out as a single- personal favourite.

I came up with an analogy of The Kills last night, well 2.30am this morning. Basically, Jamie’s guitar sounds like a machine gun and Alison sings like a frustrated Angel. If I had to describe them to someone, I’d use that description. I’m pretty proud of it- and I’m rarely proud of myself.

U.R.A Fever is amazing to watch live, just like any of their songs. When they sing together, all this mind-blowing chemistry just flies out. You want it for yourself, but you know it’s rare. What you witness between Alison and Jamie is so rare. Maybe you’ll have your own version of it one day, just don’t go looking for it.

The term Midnight Boom refers to the time where the moon comes up and everyone goes to bed. However, if you’re like me and sleep is your enemy- the term is lost on you. I’ve always loved the titles The Kills come up with for their albums, Keep On Your Mean Side will always be my favourite.

Alphabet Pony hits you hard, it attacks you in a way that you cannot defend yourself from- but why would you want to? Their sound on their third album is as brutal as ever. The video to Last Day Of Magic just sums up the fury in their music. Loving but just oozing frustration. Not in a, “I hate myself and the world” kind of way, but just knowing you can do something, it’s just doing it. I don’t know, I’m not very good at wording things like that, I just feel too much I guess.

Lyrically, this album is just as cruel as previous releases. Recently a perfume advert has decided to use Cheap And Cheerful as part of their ad campaign- I bet their perfume isn’t. I know, poor joke.  I love the line, “I’m bored of cheap and cheerful. I want expensive sadness. Hospital bills, parole. Open doors to madness.” Alison’s cough at the start is strangely attractive too. The way she sings, “It’s alright, to be mean.” Over the little drumming solo is pretty damn good too. The album just bursts so much energy and harsh lines. Like all their albums, there are no bad tracks. Every song just flows into each other so perfectly.

The album closer (if you don’t have the bonus track, Night Train) Goodnight Bad Morning is so fragile and vulnerable. At times, their lyrics pour out so much vulnerability- especially with how Alison sings them. “The jailers in my mind are all dead. I love you so much. Never forget.” The way Alison and Jamie sing this together, you just believe them more than ever. It’s just a gorgeous song. Everything about it just moves you.

Hook And Line is another ruckus (noisy not unpleasant) track. “Nail it down with jealous bones.’Til it goes off like a feather on its own.” Try all you want to, but you cannot control or stop her/The Kills. Reading their lyrics, it’s almost a guide to life. Teaching you that sometimes it’s okay to do bad things (not to the point where you hurt someone on purpose.) Its okay to keep your guard up, you probably always should.

Tape Song for instance, “Time ain’t gonna cure you honey. Time don’t give a shit.” So true. People are quick to fool themselves with the idea that time heals all. It doesn’t. What you do is, you adapt. You’re never cured, whatever is irking you will always be there. Time is just a concept- not a healer. As they point out that time doesn’t heal, you have to do what you can to move forward, “You’ve got to go steal ahead.” If anyone is in need of some kind of guidance in life, then listen to this song. It’ll sort you out, no problem.

Midnight Boom gave Alison and Jamie more success than previous albums. They featured on Jools Holland, Jonathan Ross- I remember sitting on the floor staring at the screen like an attentive child watching their favourite cartoon. I was just proud that my favourite band was finally getting the recognition they deserve. I’ve loved them since the start, and to see them finally being praised for what they are doing is just beautiful. This album caused their career to take off, but if you listen to all their albums- this sound has always been there. That raw, bluesy feel- no one else has done it as well as The Kills and honestly? I severely doubt anyone else could.

Oh, and remember “It’s alright, to be mean.”

Thao + Mirah

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When an album has been produced by Merrill Garbus of Tune-Yards and is released on the Kill Rock Stars label, you know it’s going to be really close to perfection. Two voices in the music industry that are everso underlooked have put out an album that is probably going to remain underrated. This isn’t right. I won’t have it. Then again, nobody really listens to me, but it’s alright. I’ll still tell you why this album by Thao + Mirah is awesome.

Thao is part of the band, the Get Down Stay Down and Mirah is a solo artist. Together and individually they make beautiful music. What I love about this project is how massive the drums sound. The opener on the album Eleven features Tune-Yards, so of course there is going to be insane drumming. It’s just so powerful, it makes you think you can run up a mountain without breaking into a sweat. If only that was possible, right? If clubs played more music like this, maybe I’d enjoy social events/go out more.

I’m starting to feel most good music comes from the LA area. Artists such as Warpaint and Thao + Mirah just make me want to leave England and bugger off to LA. However, I have no money so I’ll just keep it as a dream that will never come true. I guess it can’t go wrong that way.

I love how emotionally charged their lyrics are, especially on the song Littel Cup, which is probably my favourite. “And you were beautiful it’s true. And all I ever wanted was  to be good to you.” I presume we all want to be good for the one we are the fondest of, sometimes it doesn’t always work out. Sometimes, you’re best isn’t enough for reasons that are probably best unknown to save you from more heartache and confusion, “All I want to give, not give enough.”

When I listen to their songs, I can’t help but feel every single word they sing. There’s so much hurt in their songs, it makes you want to find the lovers that hurt them and slap them. Or thank them for inspiring such a bloody wonderful record. Or maybe, they haven’t been hurt and it’s all fictional. Either way, it’s just bloody amazing songwriting.

It’s a shame that this is easily the most underrated album of this year, but if you’re one of the lucky few that have exposed it to their ears, treasure it. Please treasure it and share it with those that deserve to hear such a stunning record from start to finish.

Richard Hawley.

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I have my wonderful mum to thank for my love of Richard Hawley. Around 3 or 4 years ago, she asked me to get me one of his albums for Christmas. Now, as someone who only likes to give people CDs or books as a present- I was more than happy to buy her one of his albums.

I found out the real reason as to why she loves him so much immediately. It’s not because he’s one of the best singer/song-writers in this country, but it’s because he’s a Yorkshire lad. I went through this with her about Arctic Monkeys. I came home with their debut album when it came out- she refused to listen, “They’re from the wrong side of the Pennines!” Was what she hollered at me. It took several conversations and a few articles to prove to her that they were also Yorkshire lads. With knowing this, she bloody loves them. Funny thing is, she worships Morrissey. She said he’s the only exception.

Well it is true, Yorkshire is THE superior county. I must point out my mum is from Yorkshire, she doesn’t have some strange obsession with the county- she is from there.

Right, anecdote out of the way. I’ll discuss my appreciation for Mr. Hawley.

His voice is so soothing and his lyrics are simply wonderful. He’s a poet, there’s no doubt about it. Even if you don’t like his music (how could you not?!) just read his lyrics, they flow like poetry. I don’t want to focus on his time in the Longpigs or Pulp; I’m going to keep it about his lyrics.

The meaning of true love can be heard and felt in a Richard Hawley song, “You’re the one who sees the darkness on the edge of town. You’re the one my arms surround. You’re the thorn and you’re the crown.” This is easily my favourite lyric of his, it’s just so beautiful. He is well and truly, the last of the Romantics. His music make you feel like you are in a log cabin with only the stars and an open fire for company. To be honest, what more does one need? It’s the simple things that matter.

Without Richard Hawley, the true sense of Romanticism in music would be dead. He is just everything the younger generations need to hear. There is more to music than singing about getting drunk or yelling “I’m a freak, love me!” Nobody cares for that bullshit, it is highly irrelevant. This is why we need folks like PJ Harvey and Richard Hawley. They will be remembered for a very long time, the others won’t. I can only hope someone hears a Richard Hawley and is inspired to write something with meaning.

Aside from being a Romantic, there’s a Political side to his lyrics. One song in particular just hits the nail on the head with regard to how messed up British society is, “Those people they got nothing in their souls. And they make our TVs blind us from our visions and our goals. Oh the trigger of time it tricks you so you have no way to grow.” Taken from, Tonight The Streets Are Ours- this line just sums up how television has ruined peoples hopes and dreams. They see things on TV that they think can be achieved and ignore what they want. They force themselves to want what Society makes them want.

His last solo album, Truelove’s Gutter refers to a place in Sheffield and was also recorded in Sheffield. Another reason as to why this album is a bloody masterpiece. Remorse Code is close to 10 minutes of utter perfection. It’s so chilling, and so beautiful. It’s just more proof that songs that last over 5 minutes are actually the best. Nobody wants something that lasts 2 minutes, you want something that goes on forever and sends you into another world. Even his shorter songs have this affect on you. He’s just an insanely gifted songwriter.

Personally, Valentine is my favourite. I love the meaning behind it and the lyrics just, I don’t know. They just do something to me that just proves I’m far too sensitive for my own good most of the time. Sometimes, it’s bloody bittersweet when a song so beautiful just rips you apart. The line, “I’m scared you don’t need me anymore.” It’s too poignant for words. It always breaks my heart.

Artists such as Richard Hawley are the reason as to why lyrics are so important to me. Of course I can appreciate certain parts in songs that just blow your mind, but there is something about how a line is sung, and what is sung that just collides with your soul and comforts you. I have my mum to thank for my love for Bob Dylan, and also Richard Hawley. He’s a National Treasure.

Lana Del Rey.

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When an artist describes them as “Nancy Sinatra with a gun” you’d probably be quick to think, “Whatever dickhead, dream on.” Most of the time I guess you’d be right in thinking that. However this time, it’s pretty damn accurate.

When you expose yourself to one song by Lizzy Grant aka Lana Del Rey, you cannot stop at just one. You have to listen to every single song you can possibly find. Her music will scare you, you will firmly believe that she carries a gun around with her and is some kind of gangster. You know how Alison Mosshart uses that gun in the video to Treat Me Like Your Mother? You pretty much get the same vibe from Lana Del Rey- except she’d do it in a Jazz club or behind closed doors- not in the middle of nowhere. Nobody should make being a gangster attractive, but Lana Del Rey does. She isn’t really one, but I’m going to make believe that she is. For now. Until I get bored and just enjoy her music rather than this mystic creature I’m making her out to be.

This kind of music is much needed, especialy when the charts are riddled with awful manufactured shite. I do not need to name names. At the moment it’s just all thoughtless and entirely shallow. There is depth to Lana Del Rey’s music, Diet Mtn Dew for instance, she questions her lover if they will be in love forever even though she knows the person is bad for her. I guess this proves the theory that a lot of girls want someone who is a bit of a wanker and is bad for them. I don’t have it in me to be that way, which is why well, you know- the good ones end up with nothing. It’s alright- I’ve got books and records. One day that will impress a girl. Probably when I’m about 50 and I’ll HAVE to settle. Brilliant….

The only person who has ever mastered mixing Jazz with Hip Hop is of course, Amy Winehouse. Lana Del Rey is NOT the new Amy Winehouse. She cannot be replaced at all. Ever. Just no. Not going to happen. Lana Del Rey does combine the two, but in a different way to Amy Winehouse. With Amy, you could feel her pain and despair. You wanted to reach out and help her. With Lana, she makes you feel you’re part of the Mob in New York City or Chicago running and hiding for your life. There’s an element of danger to her songs and such sincerity to her voice. At times, you wonder how a 24 year old can make this kind of music. How many crime novels has she read?! She has a truly wonderful voice, well what else can be expected from a former Jazz singer.

When you listen to her music, you do not think you are in 2011. You think you are in 1950s at a Jazz club watching this enigma perform on stage. Her music creates this presence that part of you wants to get close to, but the other part of you fears it. A lot of singers create personas for reasons unknown and really, it just makes them out to be self-absorbed and all they have going for them is a gimmick and no talent (again, I don’t need to name names.) But with Lana Del Rey, you believe she is living out all she is singing. Except, she probably isn’t. But just let yourself believe she is, it;s better if you do. If you don’t- the gangster version of Nancy Sinatra will probably come get you! I presume you’d probably enjoy that.

I honestly cannot praise her talents enough. Her voice is powerful but not in a “I’m going to hit every note and it will sound like I am in agony” kind of way. It does something to you- it is utterly criminal, but in a good way. Trust me, if you listen to her music you will know what I mean. She is so beautiful, to the point where when you watch her videos you’re notpaying attention to what she is saying because she isso captivating. Your eyes will pop out of head, you will be covered in goose-bumps- you will be utterly hypnotised.

After listening to her music you will hate the real world. You will hate your world and wish to be part of Lana Del Rey’s. Just don’t start acting like a Mobster, it won’t start or end well.