Category Archives: Influential Women In Music.

GARBAGE-Beloved Freak.

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There are musicians who, even though you’ve never met them and may never meet them, sometimes feel like the closest person to you. You feel close to them because they tell your story better than you could. You’ve tried many times to unravel every feeling and everything that goes on in your head. For the most part, it is pointless. Things don’t always need a meaning but things need truth. Voices do need to be heard, and when our own isn’t loud enough there is always someone else who has the guts to be our voice. To be louder and be as brave as we wish we were.

I’ve always had a small yet solid number of musicians that have been my voice and that ounce of hope I needed to get through most things. They are the musicians I wish I was as tough as, but I’ll never be tough. I may look as if I am pissed off most of the time but I’m not. Although I dislike the current state of the world, it’s never anything that personal. I’m grumpy but only because I’m getting older. I dislike a lot of things, and it is easier to vocalise them. If you talk about the things you love, it is  easier for people to mock your interests. But you know what? Fuck them. No, not literally. No thanks. Grubby bastards. Courage crept up on me late in life. It smacked me in the face a few years ago. I’ll stand up for anyone but myself. I was once hit in the face for standing up to some racist prick. It wasn’t a hit that was painful. Maybe because I was proud of myself for speaking up. I do have a point, but I know no one is reading much further. Which means I can write what I want. Be free with your words.

When Not Your Kind Of People came out last year, I went directly to the last track on the record; Beloved Freak. I somehow had a gut feeling that this song would be one of those Garbage songs that fellow Garbage lovers would turn to when everything was ugly. I knew immediately it would have the same meaning to me that The Trick Is To Keep Breathing would have to me. The Trick Is To Keep Breathing dragged me through my teenage years, and partly through adulthood. I’m nearly 27; I don’t have it right and I know I never will. I don’t think any adult ever truly has it sussed out. You just make do and carry on, because the alternative is..well, I’m not sure.

I played Beloved Freak and cried. What a surprise!

For as long as I’ve been a fan of Garbage (since the start) their songs have meant more to me than I can put into words, songs like Beloved Freak just sum up exactly why I love them and why they saved this lost soul. I’ve watched various live clips of Beloved Freak and I’ve seen Shirley choke up towards the end as she sings. The power she has with her words is just beautiful. She doesn’t need to write lyrics that are made up of ridiculous metaphors to make her point. She goes right to the core of the emotion and executes it in such an honest way that most wish to shy away from. Everyone has their own struggle to overcome on a daily basis, and I firmly believe that music is one of the very few things that make life a little bit easier.

“You’re not certain when you feel.
Hurt get violent when you deal
With how the world drags you along
You’re not alone.”

Maybe I’d have been braver if this song existed when I was a teenager, but as an adult listening to this, it makes every emotion feel less ugly and less of a chore to carry around.

The thing about Shirley’s words is that you KNOW she means every single one of them. When she sings songs about despair and self-hate, you know she has felt that way herself. That is what makes her words more powerful than I can get my head around at times. Beloved Freak feels like, to me, her way of telling the person who is listening to the song that in the end, you’ll get to a point where everything is alright. It may never make sense, but you’ll get there. It’s like she’s placed her hand in yours as you drag yourself through each day. There will come a time where you won’t be dragging yourself no more; instead you’ll be walking with your head high.

There are many parts in this song that have come to mean the world to me, for reasons I don’t think need explaining. Shirley’s lyrics have always been obvious for me. Much like Morrissey. You know exactly what they mean and you connect straight away. When a singer/band isn’t afraid to be so open with their music, you know you’ve found something you will have a connection with for the rest of time. The other day I thought about what it would be like if I never was a fan of Garbage. Would I harbor certain feelings forever with no clue as to how I face them? I have no idea, but for the better, Garbage helped me grow up and adjust. I’ll always feel slightly awkward in the skin I’m in. I’ll never fully like myself, but I don’t let that define everything I do and the person I am. If I was happy with myself, I wouldn’t work hard towards anything. Carrying some self-doubt helps.

Beloved Freak isn’t just a song to me. It’s something I turn to when that sinking feeling kicks in. It isn’t as frequent as it once was. I always mention that I love bands/singers that are really open with their words, and I guess that is why I write like this. Maybe it makes me a total prick, I have no idea. But music is my life, and with songs like Beloved Freak- I couldn’t and wouldn’t have it any other way.

“People lie and people steal.
They misinterpret how you feel.
And so we doubt and we conceal.
You’re not alone.”

People will always make you feel as if what bothers you is insignificant or that you’re dumb for having such feelings. Let them waste their time on being foolish, you just carry on. They’re not worth the thought. We learn to hide how we feel in order to keep a sense of normality around us, but let it be known that nothing is normal. Morrissey taught me that. And he’s utterly right.

Bands like Garbage are there for you to no longer hide anymore. Everyone is different, and how you cope with life is how YOU cope with it. People will judge, but you have to go with what you feel is right in your heart. These are just a small fraction of what Shirley Manson’s words have taught me.

“This little light of mine,
I’m going to let it shine.”

Music is my light. Be a beloved freak. Don’t let the fuckers push you around and don’t let anyone ever tell you how you should be x

PINS-Girls Like Us.

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Next Monday (30th September) sees the release of quite possibly one of the best debut records of the year. It is also one of the best records of the year. It is nothing short of perfect, and if you think Haim’s debut is the one you should be fawning over- then you are wrong.

Girls Like Us by PINS is not for those who are seeking lyrics full of “I love you’s” or soppy sentimental songs. They are dark,  they are mystical creatures who are coming for your souls. Aside from Savages, no other band is really doing it. PINS are from Manchester, and everyone knows Manchester after New York is THE most important place in the world. Manchester gave us The Smiths and The Fall. New York gave us Punk. Does anything else really matter? No, not really. PINS are the backbone for cowards. PINS aren’t afraid to throw a middle finger to those who wish to sound like everything and everyone else. PINS are going to blow your mind and eardrums.

As I listen to Girls Like Us, I realise very early on what this record reminds me of. I’m always seeking music that makes me feel like I’m discovering The Jesus And Mary Chain all over again. PINS do exactly that. They remind of The Birthday Party mixed with Captain Beefheart with a slight hint of Siouxsie. In a dream world, PINS would be supporting Dum Dum Girls in December in London. If either band see this, please make it happen. They have this incredible sound that makes you want to grab stuff and throw it. I sadly can’t do that because I’d get into trouble. Maybe I’ll throw some bread out of the window later, at least a bird will eat it.

The bass on I Want It All is INSANE. It is so brooding and captivating. It has a stalker vibe to it; like someone is following you and just will not leave you be. That nagging thought in the back of your head that creeps to the front of your head, and will not leave you alone until it consumes you. Girls Like Us is a record that will consume you; it has to. It is also a record that makes you want to move to Manchester. I miss the North of England. I miss its dull skies and glorious architecture. I miss Northern accents. One day, I’ll go back.

PINS to me aren’t just a band, they are a silent movement- for now. When I wear my PINS shirt (I pretty much live in it) I feel like I’m wearing a shield. A form of protection. If someone was to stop me and ask what my shirt was about, I’d just tell them it was a movement about to happen. PINS aren’t a band that are going to be played to death on commercial radio; they are a band that are going to last for years and years with a cult following. They have that tight-knit feel about them. The band seem to have a gang mentality to their sound, but that doesn’t make the listener feel excluded. As if they are on the outside looking in. If you truly get it, you feel part of it. The band become a huge part of you straight away. How many bands recently have done this? Not that many.

They are effortlessly bold with their sounds. They don’t pull ridiculous faces when they place, their words mean something, their sound is distinctive and brave. They are not like everything you have been force-fed. I feel PINS have created a record that so many have been searching for. They have a mixture of 60s girl group and Nick Cave about them. I have no idea what people are saying about PINS and their debut record, but I doubt anyone will be saying anything negative about them, how could they!

For me, Girls Like Us is a record that will be regarded as a fantastic debut in years to come. There is something about it that stands out above the rest. Nothing about Girls Like Us sounds like it’s an act. It is entirely pure and perfect. As I listen to Faith’s vocals, I cannot help but feel grateful that a band like this exist. Her voice is powerful and assertive like Patti Smith and Shirley Manson but on some tracks there is a hint of vulnerability there. When a singer does this, I have one always in mind- Courtney Love. Faith pretty much nails it. The band is tough and expose feelings you are probably told to press down on and ignore.

Girls Like Us feels likes a fight. The record ends on The Darkest Day, and this sounds like the aftermath of a fight when you’ve calmed down. Staring at your bloody knuckles and your bruised face- squirming at what you see, but proud you stood up for yourself (I’ve never punched anyone by the way.) Girls Like Us is a unifying record which will hopefully push female musicians to get out there and be heard. We really need more strong female musicians. Being strong isn’t wearing stupid outfits with fire shooting out of your bra. That isn’t empowering, that is downright stupid. Pick up an instrument, be loud and do everything with all the heart you have. Play with fury and do not compromise you or your beliefs. That is what you get when you listen to Girls Like Us. You’re no longer afraid; the passion will drive you on.

When I listened to Savages debut record, I felt like someone had pushed me up against a wall and punched me repeatedly. Confusion took over because I wasn’t sure what was going on. I felt sore and destroyed after I listened to it; it conjured up raw feelings that is lacking in most. That is what I want from music. That is what should come from music. Thankfully PINS do exactly that.

Their debut record isn’t even out yet, but I am so excited for what else is to come from PINS. They are evidently, here to stay.

ELLIE GOULDING. iTunes Festival 22nd September 2013.

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If you ignore that I won Jessie Ware tickets last week, I actually never win anything. I never won anything in school and the like; but that’s alright. If you win tickets to see two of your favourite singers, it pretty much means more. I’ve never been to the Roundhouse, I’ve walked past it a few times wishing I could go in to see something magical. Last night I got to see Ellie Goulding for the fifth time. For free. I like free stuff, who doesn’t! Anyone who says they don’t is nothing but a liar.

We were stood right at the back, but although I’m awfully short- I had a pretty good view. I could rest my tired bones against the barrier and generally have the time of my life. I sang, did some little movements and had a nice time. It was a really special moment seeing Ellie; I first saw her on her very first tour and there were about 200 people in the room- to see her play venues like the Roundhouse was truly beautiful. When I first saw her, her shyness was somewhat holding her back, but her voice was more than enough. Now? Now she moves about on stage like a person in complete control. A woman with a vision that is hopefully inspiring others to do the same.

With only two records out (if you ignore the re-released versions), Ellie has this presence on stage that is found in the likes of singers that have been around for decades. This was my first time seeing Ellie in London, and as she’s a London resident- it was fair to say that this is the best performance I’ve witnessed of hers so far. I suppose in a couple of weeks when I see her at Hammersmith I’ll declare that as the best time I’ve seen her. There is something truly special about seeing a band/singer play to their home crowd.

From a personal point of view, when she sings songs about her dad I just go to bits. Not because I’m sad for her, but because I know what it’s like to have that loss. My loss is different to hers, but the songs cut to the very core. Fortunately this time I’m able to not cry at all because I’m just in awe of Ellie’s voice and how far she’s come. The thing is, she is able to write about these heartbreaking events in a way most would struggle with. To unleash them in this way and to not be afraid of being so open is a bloody brilliant trait to have. A trait most wouldn’t know what to do with. People are afraid to be vulnerable but there’s really nothing wrong with it. There is something wrong with thinking everyone is going to fuck you over. Ellie’s music, when she does songs like these, are a form of healing. The way she sings the songs that break your heart are sang with so much passion (obviously the same goes for her other songs, but you know what I mean.)

For me, Under The Sheets is always going to be the song I look forward to the most during her sets. It’s the song I remember seeing the video to on TV in late 2009. And she’s hitting this drum with glitter flying off and I was hooked. I’m not a fan of glitter, it must be said. There was something about Under The Sheets that, when I first heard it, I knew I was listening to someone who was going to be massive. I’m rarely right, but with this, I was! When I see her perform this live, it is pretty much the song that causes me to injure myself if I’m near a barrier as I like to use it as a drum. Did that happen last night? Yes. Is my hand really bruised and a bit swollen? Yes it is. If I’ve not got a minor injury after a gig, I’ve probably not had a good time. The bass drop during Lights is electrifying, I mean the whole set is. But the drop during Lights (Bassnectar remix) is amazing to see live.

Ellie’s band (Max, Joe, Chris and Simon) are amazing. Each of them makes you wish you had even a tiny amount of musical talent. All of them play with such love, and the energy all of them has is infectious. You cannot help but move your limbs around in a questionable fashion as you watch them play with all they have. Ellie and her band are tight; the musicianship they have should be enviable by others- making them want to be as tight as they are.

I’ll admit, I wasn’t really taken by her current single, Burn but after seeing it live. And yet again witnessing Ellie slay the guitar, I was blown away. She does it all. Her shy charisma on stage makes her easy to love because there is no pretentious vibe about her. She’s simply someone living out her dream, and to have watched her go from playing to 200 people to this was just magical. If you’ve never seen her live, let it be known you are truly missing out.

JESSIE WARE. Abbey Road Studios. 19th September 2013.

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I’ve been to some brilliant gigs in my time. Some have been in questionable places that disregard health and safety. Others have been in beautiful places that I’d be totally fine with sleeping in if no one knew I was there. Thing is, I prefer the venues that look as if they are going to fall apart and are so dark you think a door is a person, so you speak to them without realising. That could just be my shit eyesight though….

I got a phone call on Monday evening. I never answer my phone because it is always on silent and I have no idea why someone would want to call me. For some reason, I answered. I was told I had won tickets to see Jessie Ware at Abbey Road Studios on Thursday (last night.) I never win anything (okay so a week before I got an email saying I’d won tickets to see Ellie Goulding at the iTunes Festival but shush!) I hung up after all was confirmed. Told my pals who I was with, and invited one of them with me. Apparently my girlfriend should have been my first choice. OOPS! So with my pal and I excited about the gig, she got exactly the same phone call as me! What are the chances!

Let’s talk about the show now.

Abbey Road has this incredible atmosphere that just hits you as soon as you walk in. My favourite thing was the photo of Jamie Hince (The Kills) on the wall. I was thinking of ways to take it, but realised quickly the photo is as big as me so it wouldn’t work. It’s not like it was a print I could roll up and shove in my back pocket.

After indulging in the free drinks (I dislike wine but free wine tastes really nice, as do free cocktails) we shuffled towards the front. I was stood directly in front of the mic. I like to be at the front; mainly because I’m a short arse who cannot see.

Jessie strides onto the stage with the most glorious smile I’ve ever seen; thing is, during the night her smile just gets bigger and bigger. She plays pretty much all of the songs from Devotion. If you don’t own her record, you are missing out. Her voice is so beautiful. She’s my generation’s Sade mixed with Aaliyah. Throughout her set she speaks to those who have come all the way from Canada, high fives people at the front, takes photos with fans as she’s singing and pretty much has the best time ever on stage.

What made this gig really special was that, it was in an intimate venue that holds a lot of history. The chances are one of your favourite bands have probably recorded here at some point. The love in room was just simply euphoric. I’ve been to Morrissey gigs where people have tried to launch themselves at the stage, but this was something else. There is something deeply captivating about Jessie Ware, and it isn’t just her voice. You can tell that she truly loves what she does, and the sheer happiness that just pours from her falls into the crowd.

For me personally, when she sang Running for about 10 seconds whilst looking at me was delightful. As was having a photo with her afterwards, and her thanking us for being at the front. NO PROBLEM JESSIE!

Devotion is one of the best records I’ve heard in years. It has pure soul and expresses love on different. Hearing songs such as Taking In Water (written for her brother, probably my favourite) and Night Light (written for her boyfriend, but he doesn’t really like it!) live just left me in awe. The way she sings so effortlessly and is so gracious, she is undeniably the best UK female singer around. She has this genuine soulful feel to her music, and because it is so natural it just takes you over in such a magical way. Watching her made you feel like the luckiest person in the room because you were witnessing something memorable. You can tell every single song means the world to her, and I think that is what makes us fans feel the same way. Her connection with the crowd was stunning, and to have a quality like this is quite rare- which makes you instantly treasure her.

Jessie’s band are incredible. Everyone on stage has this infectious grin, and I’m pretty sure I spent the hour watching them all just grinning back like a loon! But the thing is, you really cannot help it. Live music to me, is everything. Music is a massive part of my life but live music is something else. It allows you to unleash everything with the person responsible for the sounds stood right in front of you. To not be moved by something like this is something I cannot quite get my head around. I suppose it is because music is that important to me. Shows like this will be talked about in years to come, because it was so intimate and special.

This show was made up of beautiful moments that all there were so lucky to have witnessed. What truly blew my mind, as I’ve said above was just how happy Jessie Ware is on stage. You can just tell how humble she is, and how every cheer and when word is sung back to her just means so much.

Last night made me fall in love with London even more than I already am. It was a spectacular event with brilliant people. I also now enjoy Campari. As an Italian, I feel I should and as it was in the free cocktails, I became a fan. Hopefully it will taste as good if I ever buy it… Oh and the goodie bag we were given was a treat too!

A huge thank you to Wayne who called on Monday to say I had won the tickets!

 

* The photo above was taken by my girlfriend because she’s got one of them iPhones that takes alright photos and my phone is crap!

Happy 30th Birthday AJW xxxx

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For some, 14th September is just a normal day- but for others they know that today is a pretty sad day. If it wasn’t for that horrible day two years ago, today would have been a special day for one person and her family. Sadly it isn’t. A loss is a loss, regardless of who experiences it.

Today would have been Amy Winehouse’s  30th birthday; today is also Nas’ 40th birthday. A rapper she really loved, and spoke beautifully about it in her song Me & Mr. Jones. She even sampled Made You Look by Nas on her song, In My Bed. Both songs are incredible, and probably the two I can sort of listen to without this weird and awful feeling just hitting me.

If Amy wasn’t so open with her lyrics, if you thought she didn’t mean every word- then I guess her music is probably easy to listen to. I remember hearing her many years ago on Trevor Nelson’s radio show he had on a Saturday afternoon on Radio 1 and he played Stronger Than Me. I then saw her on Jools Holland and she had this baby blue guitar and leopard print trousers on. She looked a little vulnerable but an element of control was around her. Anyone who saw that performance knew that they were witnessing something that would become such a vital performance. More importantly it was one of the best performances on that show. Ever.

Of course we must not be sad, but there will always be an element of sadness when her name is mentioned. Or when we think about Amy Winehouse. Her music, her words..they made you feel as if you knew her. Of course we didn’t but she was so open with her words- you couldn’t help but feel something like, she was your pal. Her music got you through heartbreak. So many have leant on her record, Back To Black to get through emotional pain. It was a raw record that exposed the ugly and haunting feelings we have in a way that we never could. That no one else may ever do. She was a phenomenal song-writer; the sheer honesty in her songs was just absolutely beautiful. The way in which she sung them made them what they were; perfect.

Since her passing, Amy’s family have set up the Amy Winehouse Foundation. You can learn more about who they are and what they do: http://www.amywinehousefoundation.org and all through September they putting on events to celebrate her 30th birthday. Get involved.

Today is a sad day, but it..happens. She died far too young, and it is so easy to think of what could have been. But what we have is what we should treasure. There will never ever be anyone else like her. She will always be the Queen Of Camden, always.

Happy Birthday Amy xxxx

SISU-Blood Tears.

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We have moments of clarity and realisation in really peculiar moments. The worst is when it happens when you’re stuck on train or whatever, and you cannot get out to do something about it. Or you have pen and paper near you to write anything down. I have a shit memory at times, so I just forget anything that could be of use to me. Sometimes though; I manage to cling. More people should learn to keep secrets, and keep their own. But sometimes we are given an insight into a world that’s a billion times better than our own. You know where you can find a better world? Right inside the depths of SISU’s debut record, Blood Tears.

SISU is fronted by Sandra Vu who is the excellent drummer in Dum Dum Girls. If I could drum, I’d want to have the talent she has. She adds something a bit aggressive to a band that are wonderfully delicate. So what kind of music does she make in SISU? Well, if you’re looking for a Dum Dum Girls clone don’t bother. SISU are quite synth focused which adds a really dark and reluctantly I say this, a “goth” vibe to it. If Bauhaus merged with say, Depeche Mode- this is what you’d get. SISU’s music has a wonderful New Romantic feel to it also. Blood Tears is a record you need to play whilst walking late at night with a heavy mist looming. There is something quite sinister about this record, and that’s why I love it. The song Electronic sounds like it should be featured in a horror or thriller film- as the bad guy approaches his next victim. The record is gorgeous and creepy; it makes you want to put a cape on and go deep into the night. Or you could just stay at home and play it. I’d go for the latter, it is much safer.

I’m not going to make any comparisons to Dum Dum Girls as I think that’s quite unfair. They are separate bands with completely different sounds. Different is always good, especially in music. The structure to this record is just perfect; every song flows perfectly into the other. It flows majestically even if it feels like a haunting soundtrack to a dream you once had. The darker the sound, the better. SISU’s music was made for those creepy basement bars where you are surrounded by people who just “get” you. Without words, but a knowing nod- they just get you. Blood Tears is a debut record that I know I am going to hold very close to my heart for some time. I think this is how my brilliant stepdad felt when he heard Siouxsie And The Banshees for the first time. You know you are hearing something incredibly inspiring here. I hope they play the UK, because there are some brilliant venues here that were made for bands like SISU.

I could happily praise this record for as long as words fall out of me. I’ve noticed something in the song Let Go that reminds me of Garbage’s debut record. There is an attitude to SISU’s music that is found in Garbage, and although I said I wouldn’t compare them earlier- you find this in Dum Dum Girls’ music too. But you probably knew that. Shirley Manson is an incredible force that has evidently influenced so many.  I have no idea if Sandra is influenced by Shirley, but her voice has the same “I’m going to make you listen to me” feel to it. It’s bloody empowering.

I believe music is probably one of the few things in life that can give you a real sense of pleasure and freedom. Blood Tears feels like it could strengthen the weak ones. That it can find those who truly need to be found. The dark atmosphere that is in this record is nothing short of divine and you never want it to end. Ten songs just isn’t enough, but you can always hit repeat can’t you.

I sincerely hope Sandra and the band are proud of this record because it is honestly unlike anything else I’ve heard all year. SISU are on that Dirty Beaches level (who they are currently on tour with and I really wish I lived in America right now because of it!) They aren’t conventional with their sound and you can just sense a lot went into the music. I think when you pick up on that, you gain a different insight to the record. I’m not for conventional anyway, which is why bands such as SISU mean a lot to me.

A debut record can have a massive impact on the fan/listener; you fully get that with Blood Tears. It is a passionate and bold record that I cannot wait to have in my possession and play on a daily basis. That eerie bass-line in Sharp Teeth is enough to make The Cure go to the studio and make something as ethereal as Seventeen Seconds. It may be 2013, but SISU truly take you somewhere else. I don’t know where, but being found doesn’t matter.

Blood Tears is out on Mono Prism Records on 17th September. Even if you are on poverty row, go buy this record. I have so much more left to say about Blood Tears, but I’ll stop here….for now.

AALIYAH.

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Time can be fascinating and time can be cruel. Time is everything and nothing. A hindrance and a healer. You choose. Sometimes time chooses for you.

I went for a run earlier; I ran for many reasons. I ran for the dislike of my body, and also in the hopes I could find the words to eventually write this. Then I realised, this isn’t being written with anyone in mind. I never care for who reads my words because I know for the most part- no one cares for my ramblings on music. This goes beyond music.

We experience things in our lives where we remember everything in that moment. You try to take as much as you can in; as more time passes you remember smaller details that never really held any meaning. Maybe they mean something now; but maybe they never will.

I was in my room when I was told that Aaliyah I had died. I was wearing my favourite red t-shirt. My close friends at that time knew I was a massive fan of Aaliyah’s- my phone kept going off. What I wished to be a lie turned out to be painfully true. I idolised Aaliyah since the very first time I heard her music in 1995. I wanted to be her. I wanted to dress like her; I guess it is why I was always a bit of a tomboy. Her music was the music relaxing and soulful sound I had ever heard. To never hear her voice ever again was something I couldn’t get my head around. To an extent, I still can’t.

It will never feel right writing about Aaliyah in past tense. I know it never will. I always lived in hope I’d see Aaliyah live and meet her to just talk about her music. I love interviewing musicians, and she is probably the one I will always wish I had the chance to interview. It won’t happen in this lifetime, but maybe in the next one.

A friend I gained through the death of Aaliyah who became like a sister to me, last year designed an Aaliyah tattoo for me. It’s on my bicep and around it is the Warpaint logo. The tattoo means more to me than my other tattoos I have; and what it means to me is something I’ll never have the words for. Sometimes, you don’t need words.

The music Aaliyah made changed R&B music; since her death many have tried to carry on what she did. It never worked. Why? There will never be anyone else quite like Aaliyah. One In A Million, always.

 

SADE.

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As much as I like music that was probably made to burst eardrums, sometimes it is nice to listen to something/someone who is beyond precious.

My love for Sade started at a very young age. A lot of people seem to regard Kate Bush as the ultimate UK female musician. As much as I like Kate Bush, she will never mean as much to me as Sade does. Sure both are similar- rarely release records, tour or do interviews. Both make very different types of music. Kate Bush can hit the notes; but I don’t really go for that. I want to hear someone with a smooth voice that eases the soul. Sade is that singer, for me. I cannot remember the first time I heard Sade, but I know I was very very young. It was No Ordinary Love that started my love for Sade.  So far I had a healthy diet of music in my life by this point that consisted of Bob Dylan, Morrissey, Nick Cave and Muddy Waters. My mum and my uncle made it easy for me to be obsessed with music; it was treated as a normal thing. I’ve felt abnormal about most things in my life, but my love for music has always been the one thing I have constantly felt utterly secure with. When I heard Sade’s voice I remember this relaxed feeling taking over. It became something that I craved in other singers and bands. There aren’t really many I felt this way about. A few years later (1995 to be exact) I felt exactly when the same when I heard Aaliyah, to this day I still regard Aaliyah as my favourite singer of all time. I think the closest we can get to a modern-day Sade is probably Jessie Ware.

For me, Sade exposed the emotion of love in a pure way. When I was listening to her before I was aware of human emotion, I was just purely in awe of her voice. I wanted to be a singer who sounded just like her. I wanted the voice of Sade and the looks/style of Aaliyah. Truth be told, I probably still do. As I got older and developed a love for words, I studied Sade’s lyrics more and felt a deeper love towards her music. At times we may think love can be cruel and unkind. But for the most part, it is a vital thing to feel. And without it, there’s no point. I don’t just mean love in a romantic way. Love is vital. Regardless of its context.

Sade’s quiet nature has always been projected into her music. She posses such a delicate voice that instantly soothes your mind, body and soul. Her words go straight to your heart. She’s proof that sometimes; it’s not what you say, but how you say it that proves to have the most importance. Her angelic tones are perfect for the times where you want to shut the world off and be alone; and they also work when you need a feeling summing up. The way she portrays the innocence in most feelings is truly gorgeous.

What I love about Sade is the way she appeals to everybody. She is respected amongst most genres; especially Hip Hop. She’s an artist that is frequently sampled in Hip Hop, and when done right it is nothing short of brilliant. Her music is easy to fall in love with her. It doesn’t matter if you’re obsessed with lyrics or focus on the vocal range; Sade is on a different level. Always has been, always will be.

Her Jazz like atmosphere that is found in her music coupled with her divine voice is something that will always be influential. It doesn’t matter what style of music it is, you can always pick up a Sade influence in there.

About 10 years ago or so, I went to what can only be described as a junkyard, and amongst the crates of vinyl was a copy of her debut record, Diamond Life for £1. It was in perfect condition, fortunately I could afford it. It’s to this day still one of my most valued records I own. Hearing songs such as Your Love Is King (one of the best love songs ever) and When Am I Going To Make A Living on vinyl sounds so pure with the crackling background underneath. Perfection in what others would regard as an imperfection.

Although many have been (and still are) influenced by Sade, I’m not entirely sure a UK singer will ever be as vital as her again. But, that’s just my view and for the most part I’m told I’m wrong. Her voice brings a sense of comfort and ease; her music is the definition of love. In short, she makes you feel safe. I challenge anyone to listen  to By Your Side and not have some kind of emotional breakdown. Again, it is another perfect love song by Sade. If you’re one of those people who bang on about never knowing what true love is, then go outside- by a copy of any Sade record and listen. Close your eyes and just listen. She sets the heart free and a wave of emotion just pours out.

The heart will want what the heart will want. To ever be swayed by something or someone is never really pleasing. To be comforted by words and a voice that unleashes vulnerability and security is always welcomed. As I listen to Sade now, I still feel 6 years old again; as if it is the first time listening to her. She is graceful and timeless. She’s a portrait of beauty in every single way. I still wish that when I sung I sounded like her; instead I sound like someone who has no regard for themselves and has poorly auditioned for one of them painful “reality” shows.

The way Sade carries herself is something not many have seemed to master, and because she is so rare; that’s why she will always be treasured. It doesn’t matter (okay maybe it does….) if she never releases another record, because what we have is enough to get by.  Everything about her is just iconic. Her soulful music is the very core of feelings we wish another would place upon us. There’s always music. Always. But there will never ever be another Sade.

MARNIE-The Hunter.

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I was sent something today from my pals over at  Soft Power Records. They are easily my favourite label (excluding Art Fag, Zoo Music and Sacred Bones.) They put out strange sounds that just reinforces my love for music. But listening to music at the moment is a painful thing.  On Saturday I was meant to fly home for the weekend. I didn’t go because I had an ear infection. However, I rang NHS Direct and they said it was my teeth and I should go register with a dentist. And also take paracetamol. I went to a Walk-In Centre on Sunday and was told it was a throat infection. I was given antibiotics which were bright pink, and my girlfriend would text me at certain times to remind me to take them. I just wanted to sleep. I went to the doctor yesterday, and I was told it’s an ear infection. My ear drops are bright yellow. Hearing out of my right ear is painful. I don’t trust NHS Direct. I don’t think anyone should. So with a painful ear, I listened to something. I listened to something extremely beautiful.

Who is Marnie?

Marnie is Helen Marnie. She’s in Ladytron. Ladytron make wonderful electro music. Electro music is easy to mess up. It is easy to overdo it and just sound like a child hitting demo. Thankfully, Ladytron never did that. Thankfully Marnie has made something equally brilliant.

I do like Ladytron, I like them a lot. But after listening to Marnie; I think I’ve sided with her solo work just because it sounds a lot more sinister. I don’t want to listen to something that makes me feel like I’m running through a field with kittens (dogs are far better anyway) Marnie makes music that does something to your insides. Something gets lifted inside of you. Her sister sound with this is the likes of Bat For Lashes. She has that eerie feel to her voice that is portrayed so beautifully in Natasha Khan’s voice- Marnie does exactly the same. The vulnerability in Marnie’s voice in The Hunter is absolutely gorgeous. It may be utterly painful for me hear anything, but this is nothing short of stunning. It’s worth the pain. I know I know I’ve made it worse for myself, but music is always worth it.

Her debut record, Crystal World via PledgeMusic for funding. That site has become a platform for all kinds of artists, and without it- maybe music like this wouldn’t be released. Then you have the likes of Soft Power Records who put out 7″ singles, and it just makes everything better doesn’t it.

The Wind Breezes On is an awesome b-side. It feels like an old folk tale. There’s something about it that oozes fight and courage. I can’t really explain it, you just need to listen to it to truly feel it. But if you don’t feel it, I guess that’s okay.

The vocals on her solo work are more clear and in some respects more delicate than what she does in Ladytron but hey- no point in comparing because they are both different. When a singer can do this, that’s when you know they are truly remarkable. Electronic music can be the happiest beat with the saddest lyrics; for some that’s why they love it. That’s why I love it; when it is done like this. It can mask the sadness with ethereal sounds.

A lot of solid music has emerged this year, Marnie is easily at the front of this. If you like Ladytron, hopefully you’ll dig this. Even if you don’t like Ladytron, I think Marnie may offer you something you’ll enjoy.

You can listen to the single here: http://softpowerrecords.bandcamp.com/releases

The Hunter is released via Soft Power Records on 12th August to a limited amount of 300 copies. The Hunter is produced by fellow Ladytron member, Daniel Hunt.

HANA PIRANHA- Thin Air.

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My love for Hana Piranha is over a year old, but it feels like I have been playing her music for years and years. Maybe it is because she reminds me of singers I’ve loved for so long. She has a big voice, in a non obnoxious way. She doesn’t warble like most singers with a big voice. You can hear every word. She sings with power and clarity. Do not fuck with Hana Piranha.

I remember watching her covers on her YouTube channel. Her take on Closer by Nine Inch Nails was much more creepy than the original. She made it much more sinister. She made Rock & Roll Queen by The Subways go from an Indie kid anthem (I love The Subways so I’m not being disrespectful. They remind me of being at University. Their live shows are mental) to a heartbreaking ode to a love you can never seem to get. Work at it, you’ll get there.

Hana is the meanest (I mean that in a brutally gorgeous way) violinist around. She plays with a fury like no other. As someone who isn’t a fan of the violin, she’s swayed my view. Or maybe I’m only okay with her. Who knows; either way, I know a raw talent when I hear it.

The stranger the voice, the better. Why settle for conventional and bland when you can have something that is out of this world. We lack the power of Siouxsie now, the dominance of Poly Styrene. Or maybe we don’t. It lives on in the likes of Hana. She can make the loneliest of fools feel okay in the skin they are in with her words. There is something about her that just makes you glad you exposed your ears to her beautifully weird music. She absolutely slays the violin; like I said above, you really don’t fuck with Hana Piranha.

I’ve not really mentioned the new song at all. About that….

Thin Air shows her dominance in a way unlike before. She doesn’t flail about like a wounded creature with her violin. Oh no. She plays it with such fury. The heart and passion she plays with is found in the likes of the greats such as Patti Smith. She has this captivating stance that just makes you want to listen to her voice and over. Next week, you won’t be able to take your eyes off her music video to Thin Air. The teaser to the video below just shows the power she has, and is just a bloody treasure.

She resembles to musicians I love, Patti Smith and Kate Jackson (from The Long Blondes.) Her voice is a raw and rare beauty. I can’t wait for the video to Thin Air. It’s going to be fucking insane, and really? Wouldn’t have it any other way.