Every so often an artists comes around and just blows me away with their sound. The vulnerability in their words and the passion in their music just leaves me stunned and in awe.
At the moment, it is Trevor Powers aka Youth Lagoon that is blowing my mind with his beautiful music. If you love Beach House, I promise that you will adore Youth Lagoon. He creates music that you can use as a reflection or a way to escape. In some cases- both at the same time. It is music to make you think, “Shit….that was written about me.” Yet at the same time you can wack your headphones in, and just forget everything and everyone around you. Just lose yourself in the beautiful, perfect sounds he has created.
The video directed by the gorgeous Drew Barrymore is finally here! I wish Bethany was in the video, mainly because I’m a bit in love with her face. I love this song so much. A year on, and I still play this album every single day. It was the soundtrack to my summer last year- and it’s this year’s too. Instantly timeless.
One’s choice in music is a highly personal thing. My reasons for the love I have towards certain artists is highly personal, just as to the reason why you adore the band you love. So, what reason do we have to slag it off? None. None at all.
Now, I have done and still do mock some of my friends music taste. However- I clearly do not mean it. If you think Britney Spears is the best thing in life, go ahead and enjoy yourself. If meaningless “pop” music gets you going, so be it. You stick to that, I’ll stick to Velvet Underground and the likes of. I’m not friends with certain people because of their music taste but the person they are. Someone could like the same music as me but be the biggest wanker in the world. Or, they could have the opposite taste and be the most loving, trust-worthy person I know. I’ll go with the latter. I’ll take heart over what music you like any day.
I’ve probably got just the one friend who appreciates the same bands as I do. They love My Bloody Valentine, Suede, The Jesus And Mary Chain as much as I do. They just get it. They get that TJMC words mean everything to me, however this friend likes bands I’d rather rid the music industry of. But, the friendship works and I wouldn’t have it any other way at all. Yes it’s all well and good to have common ground, but at the same time- you want something for your own. None of my friends will appreciate and love Zola Jesus the way I do. Just like I don’t appreciate or even like certain bands they do.
Everyone judges everyone based on the things that do not matter. Do I care for your sexuality? No. Do I care what your race is? No. Do I care for what your religion is? No. I care for none of these things. Do I care what music you are into? To an extent, it’d be nice to talk about something wouldn’t it. It’s on a par with what kind of literature you are into (Poe is the greatest!) You should never let anything define who you are. For instance, I’m a lesbian (hate that word) but I never ever and will never let it define who I am. I suppose if I had to, I’d just use the word “Punk” to define who I am. Based on my thoughts, feelings, way of being and music I’m into, you know? Gun to my head, I’d choose “Punk.” Failing that, I’d just say Human Being, because that is what we are- before anything and after everything, that is what we are first. Human Beings.
So, as we are Human Beings why do we feel the need to belittle others for what they are into? I was speaking to my mum the other day about the music I am into. She said, “Ever since I can remember you have always listened to music that was dark I suppose. You always listened to music that was never played on the radio- unless you heard John Peel play it.” That’s so true. All too often I’ve been called “pretentious” amongst others words based on what I listen to. I’ve never paid attention to the charts because I really don’t see the point in them. Why is there such competition for something so meaningless? Surely it means more for people to come see you live or stop you in the street and say,”Your album changed my life.” Rather than being number 1 constantly. I don’t know, I really don’t. However, as much as I adore the music I listen to, which I suppose is mainly Punk and Shoegaze- no one seems to believe me when I say I bloody love Bros. When Will I Be Famous used to make me dance when I was a baby. I think I had a routine. I also had a slight obsession with Jason Donovan. I have no shame nor will I apologise for it.
So, to all you people who are constantly called names because you love music that everyone mocks you for- I feel for you. I really do. So, do me a favour- next time someone attempts to put you down- just tell them to quite simply, shut the f__k up. You are a person. No one is like another. Like what you like. Love who you want to love. Be free. Always, be free. In your heart, body, mind and soul- just be free. Constantly. Nobody can take what you love from you if you keep it locked in your heart.
You should never have to justify yourself to anyone. You love Ke$ha? Go for it. You love Echo & The Bunnymen? Be proud. To hell what anyone else thinks or says.
I cannot explain my love for Morrissey, I just don’t have the words. I love him because well, I just do. Just like I love other bands- I have reasons for why, but I just lack the words to express why. I suppose that shows the depth of my love. You love because you can. You just do.
Never change who you are for anyone. Be proud. Always.
There is nothing I can say about Morrissey’s live shows that haven’t been said before. You’d think after seeing him 4 times I would be able to write something semi-decent about what I saw. It’s a struggle to put perfection into words. It is hard to write down the beauty you have just witnessed into sentences that make sense.
However, I shan’t be shy, I’ll give it a go….said the Nun to the Bishop (I’m not sorry for that.)
Morrissey strides onto the stage. Greeted by cheers, screams, smiles and tears, Launching right into I Want The One I Can’t Have, the words burn right through me. Every word is relatable. Every word means the world. He greets the audience, “Hello Monte Carlo.” His humour is priceless. He’s mine and many others saviour. The songs we have all heard tonight are quite frankly, the songs that have saved and shaped my life.
I thoroughly enjoyed the new song, Scandinavia. Matthew’s drumming on this is astounding. So loud, so perfect.
What I love about Morrissey’s shows is when Boz walks to the front of the stage, playing the guitar as Morrissey backs away as he’s stopped singing. It’s a small gesture, but at the same time- entirely wonderful to watch.
Apparently Julia couldn’t be here tonight as she was sick. Moz handed the mic to the crowd and asked what Julia was missing. A girl asked if she could come on stage for a hug. Of course he said yes, “but be quick about it.” As she climbed onto the stage everyone cheered. The unity at his gigs is glorious. Whenever someone manages to get on stage or touches his hand, everyone claps and cheers. It just means so much. It means the world to the individual, and quite rightly so.
You’re The One For Me Fatty always makes me smile. It’s not exactly the most sensitive title for a song- although I know there are worse. But the sentiment in the song is just lovely. Seeing it live was something I always wanted to see, and now I have.
Of course it is songs such as There Is A Light, Irish Blood, Everyday Is Like Sunday that cause the crowd to go a wee bit more mental than usual. I firmly believe Everyday Is Like Sunday is written about the Isle of Man. The dirty sea, battered seafront, dirt ridden sand. It could be about any of these coastal towns that time forgot- Blackpool, Morecambe etc. It’s grim up North as they say. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I Know It’s Over always always ruins me. It takes me back to a place I hope I never ever have to go back to, but at the same time-makes you realise how strong and better you are now.
His words just mean everything to me. I don’t want to divulge into such personal details but certain things he says on stage make me realise a lot. People are too quick to think and feel like everyone else, but when someone doesn’t- they are called every bad name under the sun. It’s awful. Have an opinion and make it known. Choose your words carefully and be cautious with some of your actions. However, you must always be true to yourself. That’s what I take from a Morrissey gig. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Personally, it is Speedway that really touches me this time. “In my own sick way, I’ve always been true to you.” You know when you feel a line is just written for you, and you alone? I feel that away about the line. The whole song just speaks volume right now. If I could personally thank him for all he has done for me, I would. Instead, I just write these words down and publish them on my blog.
Just before the encore he said, “As you now know, music today is now shit.” Never a truer word spoken. Was it in reference to Amy Winehouse’s tragic passing recently? Who knows. I like to think it was Morrissey’s way of paying tribute to such a beautiful, talented yet fragile human being. If it wasn’t? Well he’s still right isn’t he.
I grew up on the Isle of Man (fortunately I don’t live here anymore) and for someone like Morrissey to play here, it is quite easily the best thing to have happened here. For some, this may have been their first gig tonight. Future gigs they attend now have a lot to live up to.
Morrissey, I thank you. I thank you for your words and music. I honestly have no idea where I would be without them.
I first heard I Want You by my favourite duo, Summer Camp at the start of the year. I have played it every single day since the first time I heard it. I am, quite simply, addicted to it. It’s more than likely my favourite song of this year. It’s the way the bass kicks in and just goes through you in a way you cannot imagine another song doing. It’s the way Elizabeth sings, “You’re so smart, you break my heart” that just makes every single part of you tingle and your heart skip a beat. The song grips you and you cannot get enough of it. It’s intense, powerful and dark. Just like the perfect form of romance.
Better Off Without You is a delightful “FUCK YOU” and let’s face it- most of us have someone in our lives that we are a billion times better off without. I’d love to play this to them, but they are not worthy of such a wonderful song.
No one I know likes Summer Camp nor have they heard of them. I’m keeping them as my band. They’re the ones I don’t want to share with my friends. They are the ones I don’t want anyone else to take from me. Selfish? Of course, but I rarely do it.
Summer Camp are my band of the summer. I Want You is my favourite song of the year. Better Off Without You is the best FUCK YOU song I’ve heard in a while.In short, Summer Camp are basically my favourite new-ish band. They just do something to my body and mind when I hear their music. It takes over everything. As much as I’d like to keep them as my little secret, I want everyone to know how mindblowingly (that’s now a word) amazing they are.
10 years to the day, one of the most raw and influential albums emerged from New York City. The piss ridden streets that you love and loathe produced something so passionate and important- it was pretty hard to get your head around.
I was in secondary school when Is This It was released. I was listening to all kinds of music. I was obsessed with Aaliyah, Garbage, Silverchair, Wu Tang Clan and Morrissey whilst at school. I’d constantly have them on my mix cd I’d make for my cd Walkman. I had to hold the cd Walkman down with my hand as I walked because the songs would skip. Little things like this I miss. Nothing could touch me as I walked through the corridoor playing my favourite songs.
Someday was the first song I remember hearing. I was just blown away by the sound. Jules’ voice captivated my young mind. “In many ways, they’ll miss the good old days.” It’s just an utterly timeless song. Screw that, it’s just an utterly timeless album. So many “critics” have delcared it one of the greatest albums ever, and yes- they are correct. But it is the same words written about this album over and over again. It makes you wonder, are they actually listening to this album? Do they walk the streets listening to it and pretend they are in New York City? I’m not ashamed to say that I have done that, and still do.
I want to write thousands and thousands of words as to why this album is one of the most important records ever. I want to tell you how it’s been a massive part of my life. I love the album so much I have Is This It tattooed on my wrist. My reasoning? It was one of the albums that got me through a break-up and just made me feel better about everything. It gave me strength and courage. When I feel a bit hopeless, this album just makes me feel better. There’s something about it that just feels like a safety net. I can’t possibly put it into words. I’d just be throwing around words and odd descriptions of what the album does to me. It’s just played a massive part in my life.
10 years on and The Strokes are still one of my favourite bands ever. I love every single album. Yes, I even think First Impressions is a bloody brilliant album. They changed everything for me when I heard them 10 years ago. They changed the way I felt about everything and everyone. If music is about making you feel less alone and to make you feel okay with having certain feelings- then that’s exactly what Fab, Nick, Nikolai, Jules and Albert did then, and continue to do so.
“I say the right things, but act the wrong way. I like it right here, but I cannot stay.” There has never been a time where this one line doesn’t describe my life.
I feel that whatever I write about Joy Valencia will not get my point across at all. I’m going to try my best in a couple of hundred words to tell YOU just how good she is. See, the word “good” isn’t actually good enough to be honest.
Anyway.
I’m not going to say “Oh Joy sounds like…..” because quite frankly, that’s lazy journalism isn’t it. I like to go against what is expected. Not in a rebellious kind of way nor am I trying to be difficult. I just don’t think you need me to tell you who so and so sounds like. Listen for yourself, make your own comparisons if you should feel the need.
Her delicate, angelic voice is perfect for the summer. I bloody love Wallet. I think it’s because I have no money and no job- so I can relate to wanting being given a wallet full of money. I’d love a job too (That’s a hint if anyone wants to actually pay me to write, I’d love that.) Her voice just flows so gently and almost perfectly through the musicf I could drive, it’s the kind of music I’d play on a roadtrip in the blazing sun. It just makes you want to get away from everything, in a good way. Just escaping for the day with good friends.
If You Love Me is gorgeous. I normally don’t like songs as slow as that, but something about it just tugs at your heartstrings. It’s A Beautiful Day is a roadtrip song, it’s the only perfect time to listen to it is on a roadtrip. Love the whistling in it too! Don’t Wake The Lion has AMAZING drums on it, it’s just brilliant. Probably my favourite.
I love how everything seems so exaggerated- but in a good way. It’s over the top lyrically but in a good way at times- like Kate Bush, especially on Don’t Wake The Lion.
Her voice is so goregous, it feels like she is sat singing in your ear. It’s just beautiful.
Everyone knows duos own my heart. I think mine was stolen once more tonight. With it being such an emotional day due to Amy Winehouse’s passing- a gig like this was needed. Uplifting and just utterly fun.
RID are a band that deserve to be so bloody huge. Their live shows are so full of energy and life. I honestly felt I was back in the 90s part of the Riot Grrrl scene. They ooze the drive and passion of one of my favourite bands, Bikini Kill. The screaming, the singing, the dancing, the swaying- it was like one big party. Except, the venue was borderline empty. Shame on you Stoke on Trent for your wanky promotion of this gig.
With hardly anyone there, it made the gig feel so much more intimate. Close enough to touch them- or in the case of one of my best friend’s, close enough for the band to touch you. I’ve honestly never seen anyone smile like that before in my life. Hopefully he’ll wash after tonight, he’s one of the most hygenic people I know, so he’ll be all clean tomorrow. A lot of new material is played which I must say, is chuffin’ brilliant. Honestly, if you are missing the hole Riot Grrrl sound (I miss it a lot) then for the love of Kathleen Hannah- invest in RID’s back catalogue.
The crowd were piss poor- apart from the front row. The front row were bloody wonderful. It was like having Dee and Sue play in your living room. The usage of the xylophone and bright green flute was a treat. I also loved their synchronised dance moves. Sue kept saying she was still hypnotised. As cliched as this sounds- their performance tonight as hypnotising. You just left feeling so happy and content with life. It was the perfect night with perfect people.
The support acts blew my mind. Rubicks were stunning. Vanessa plays the fuck out of the guitar. The way she moves on stage reminds me of Emily Haines from Metric. She used a drumstick….A DRUMSTICK to play the guitar with on their last song. Literally blew my mind.
The first support act Kalahan made me feel like someone had thrown me into a spin-off of The Mighty Boosh surrounded by songs about zombies. It was like being on some kind of trip. I’ve never done drugs, so I’ll have to compare it with that feeling you get when you are so tired you find everything funny, but you understand nothing.
Although the venue was pretty much empty, this was one of the best gigs I’ve been too. The energy from RID was brilliant. Sue’s mini stage-dive was awesome, although I think some may have dragged her off the stage?! They’re so lovely. I had my last £5 and Sue managed to convince me to buy a poster. I think a personal high point was me yelling “DON’T BE A PUSSY MATTHEW!!!!” at Matt but accidently yelling it in Dee’s ear. I was ever so mortified at myself- luckily she found it funny. I told Matt I’m going to write him a song called that. Dee said we should call our band that. Maybe we’ll do both and take over the world. Although, none of us have any musical talent- but that’s never stopped anyone has it!
Go buy RID’s album, go see them live. You’ll feel amazing afterwards. That’s the power of live music, it just lifts your spirits and takes you some place where nothing matters.
I don’t understand why RID aren’t bigger than they are. They have so much nore to offer than what pollutes the charts right now. One day. One day….
There are some people who make a difference in the music industry as soon as you are first exposed to them.
I remember being sat at home one Saturday afternoon in 2003 and hearing a song with the most stunning lyrics, “You should be stronger than me, you’ve been here 7 years longer than me.” There was something about this voice and this woman’s voice that just pierced my heart and won it instantly.
A few weeks later I was watching Jools Holland. This young girl was stood with a blue guitar wearing leopard print trousers with a nervous stance in front of the camera. She was singing the same song, again- I was just blown away.There was this look in her eye that you could see she found it overwhelming but at the same time had a strong enough voice to rule out the nerves.
Everyone is saying, “Oh another member of the 27 club.” Or “She was just a smack head.” Fuck off. Seriously. Just fuck off. Her voice was what made her. Her voice is one of the most powerful voices that this country has produced in such a long time.
What made her so appealing is that she sung her pain and you felt like it was your pain. She didn’t make you feel alone with having your heart ripped out and trampled on. She didn’t make you feel like you were the only person to have been hurt. She made you feel, simple as. Her music as one of the rawest pieces of art created, the way she could express pain in a way you’d expect a jazz singer to vocalise it showed she was beyond her years.
I firmly believe she was my generations Billie Holiday. There is no doubt about it.
Slayer or Wagner could be your favourite artist but I ca guarantee a part of you would have been moved by an Amy Winehouse song. How could it not be?
The wisdom and hurt in her lyrics is what her made generation’s Billie Holiday. For the past 70+ years Billie Holiday’s music has influenced so many singers. Amy Winehouse was evidently influenced by the jazz greats such as Holiday and of course, Sarah Vaughn.
Her vulnerability made her easy to relate to, it was like listening to your best friend. Maybe it is strange to regard someone you’ve never ever met as a best friend. But at 4am when you know you cannot call someone due to being hurt- you turn to music. A specific artist gets you through, they become your crutch.
Back To Black got me through some shit. That album oozes heartbreak in such a glorious yet dark way. Even if you had never been hurt before, one listen to this album and you feel like you have lost the most important person in your life and you just crumble. You emotionally crumble. Then again, if you have been hurt and you listen to songs such as Love Is A Losing Game, you are just in awe of how someone so young can word such a horrible feeling.
“You were so beautiful before today, and then I heard what you say man that was ugly” Everyone has had someone they were close to and adored so much. Beautiful to them inside and out- but something they said or did just made them to be the ugliest person in the world due to their cruelty and carelessness. We’ve all been there and that line just sums it up. Its amazing how one person can mean the world to you, and then as soon as they say something so ugly- they become nothing to you. One simple line just sums up the sheer trauma of this happening.
Sadly, stupid people are going to comment on her personal life rather than her talent. Her last live performance showed she was not ready. She seemed so fragile and frightened. You just wanted to take her home, put her in bed and give her a cup of tea and say to her, “Just get some rest- you’ll be okay.” Some people you just look at and think, “You need looking after.” Although her vulnerable words made her easy to relate to, her fragile state was utterly heartbreaking to watch. It was like seeing someone you cared about so much just fall apart.
I am fully aware that many people will just dismiss her as a junkie or whatever, but she had a talent that was so utterly rare. It’s okay to be a bit mad that she may have thrown it all away. But see that she was someone who just needed help. Maybe she was one of these artists who never should have been as famous as she was because fame was too much. Fame is a killer, the media is a killer. The British public and media love to see people fail. It’s almost as if they were waiting for this to happen so they could say, “Told you so.” It’s disgusting. She had problems just like the rest of us. Some of us get help and it works. Some of us get help, but it just isn’t enough. Things take time. Maybe she understandably had enough; we all have our own demons and battles to conquer. Our solutions to it are personal and are right for us. Nobody should judge. Nobody has the right to judge Amy as “just another junkie.”
Two albums seem so little, but they are two albums that changed the face of music created in this country. There aren’t many artists around now that can make such an impact instantly with their music- Amy was a rare talent. Her voice will be missed; she will be missed so much. Surrounded by “What ifs” and “If onlys.” It is a shame, an utter shame.
The way she and Mark Ronson created the Wall of Sound feel on Back To Black made it an instant classic. From just one listen you knew you were being exposed to one of the greatest albums ever. Frank didn’t sound like a debut album, it sounded like an album from someone who had been making music for decades. It’d be impossible to pick out her best lyric, they were all beautiful, and it’s just such a tragic and awful loss. Remember the music, it means more than anything else. Her personal life was just that- her PERSONAL life. It means nothing to us, it’s the music that counts.
One can only hope that she has found peace wherever she is now.
Beat In My Bones. 