Music Review: Serge Devant - Rewind

Following up the triumphant success of his 2009 debut Wanderer is Serge Devant with his electric sophomore album, Rewind. Filled with aural delight, the album is set to please trance lovers globally.

With such a high standard set by the release of his debut album, there was held breath as play was pressed for the first time. It was released as the first notes of Dice featuring the vocal beauty of Hadley first filtered through the speakers. The song is a mix of lush laid back beats with club sensibilities. It's a delight to the ear and excitement for the dance shoes.

3 AM Eternal is a track of musical delight. It has the anthemic makings of a Paul Van Dyk track with the driving beats of a Tiësto classic. To compare Devant to the godfather's of trance may not be easy to stomach for some. After playing the album through, however, it is easy to see where the suggestion stems from.

One of the most exciting collaborations on the album is You & Me with Rachel Starr. Club goers around the world will rejoice at another stellar track from both Devant and Starr. The track is reminisce of Then There Was You by Starr and Addicted by Devant. The track is an instant classic and challenges the listener not to list it as an instant favourite.

On Your Own is an instantly likable track. The vocals are well played along with the music. The only downside is that it stops. Suddenly. The track sounds like it should have some extra play time but it doesn't and there's about 10 seconds of silence at the end of the track. Had it played out, it would have led nicely into True Faith. This is the ultimate song of the album. The song is everything that has been missing from music lately. The smooth vocals and catchy beat. Breath taking.

Appearing for the second time on the album is Hadley with the track Ghost. It's a catchy song and, as always, flawless delivery on the part of this stunning songstress. Listen to the song, immerse yourself in the sound and let the audio wash over your senses. The sensory delight is unparalleled.

The last four tracks are what we have been waiting for. The final tracks of the album that are purely instrumental. Their driving beats, the bounce and rythm that is everything that that a good dance producer should look for. The tracks, while easily to tell the difference between each track, what is indistinguishable is the fantastic way that they play to the ear. The energy of each song is excited and rivetting. This is what trance should be. This is what music should be. This is what anthems are made of.

Serge Devant was always going to triumph with his return, there was never any doubt. Whether he would meet the previous standard or exceed it was the question. Devant has set an all new standard even for himself. Rewind is a dance music masterpiece. For anyone who has a love of electronica, this album should be listened to at the very least.

Rewind is out now through Ultra Records

Music Review: tyDi - Shooting Stars

Music Review: tyDi - Shooting Stars


Who wants one of the hottest dance albums of the year? Well, here it is. One of the hottest DJ's in not only Australia but worldwide, is here with his second phenomenal album. 


Back in 2009, Brisbane boy tyDi released his stunning album Look Closer. It turned the Australian dance scene on it's ear and set a whole new level for aspiring DJ's and electronic music artists to live up to. Many have striven but none have achieved the same standard.


Now signed to the penultimate of dance music labels, tyDi has release his album Shooting Stars on the Armada label which is known for having some of the biggest and most amazing artists on their books.


Spread over 18 luscious tracks is evidence why so many people have taken notice of this young musical mastermind. The moving music, the spectacular composition of lyrics and sound. From the opener Take A Chance to the uplifting Vanilla to the almost ambient Long Nights on Fast Planes. There is something to appease every electronica lover.


The album features some of the most known vocalists within the dance world. Gracing the track Greater Heights is Jennifer Rene who featured on the Armin Van Buuren track Fine Without You. Her is rich and full and lies over the top of the stunning and steady beats that pulse beautifully through any type of speaker.


Also appearing is Audrey Gallagher who every knows from epic track Big Sky where she appears with John O'Callaghan. The track World's Apart may not have the same anthem like qualities that Big Sky did but it is certainly captures the ear and demands attention. Even when the album plays as background music, Gallagher's ethereal voice starts to play out of the speakers and you will pay attention. The song is easily an eargasm just waiting to happen.


The sheer and simply beauty of World's Apart is so dynamically different to the following track Never Go Back featuring Brianna Holan that you will check to make sure that it is the same album. The steady, driving beats that ripple throughout the track are addictive. It's hard to look past this track as a favourite.


For those who don't know, tyDi studied at the prestigious Conservatorium of Music and has a classical background. On the closing track Ariana, you can understand why. It's an instrumental track that is unrivaled in it's beauty. The delicate piano, the gentle strings and the calm soaring percussions that glide throughout the song are stunning. There are no real words to describe the sheer rapture that can be found in listening to this track.


This album is sheer brilliance and proof positive of just how diversely talented an individual can be. From the arrangement and production, to the effort that would have been put into writing this album. 


Don't be fooled by the hype, this album is worth it. You don't just want this album, you need it. For want of a better description, this musical journey is nothing short of astounding and breath taking. This man has been touring the world, head lining music festivals and has played club after club and garnered the attention of dance lovers world wide. To understand why, listen to this album.


Shooting Stars is out now through Armada

Music Review: Zoë Badwi - Zoë

Music Review: Zoë Badwi - Zoë


It's been two years in the making, but the unmistakable talent of Zoë Badwi is now recorded and ready for you to take home. This unmissable vocal powerhouse has released her first album and it's worth every cent.


From her first release back in 2009 with Release Me to 2011 with the release of Accidents Happen, Badwi has shown that Australian artists can produce absolutely amazing music. Her debut album, Zoë, is just that evidence.


The album starts thumping from the outset with the opening track Freefallin. It's a track that brings back memories of so many nights out. People moving on a dancefloor, gyrating to the beat as Badwi's voice soars to high notes that no human should be able to hit. It's certainly one of Badwi's best known tracks and a welcome inclusion to any clubbers library.


Following is the amazing track Until You're Over Me. It's got the thumping bass that we have come to know and love as part of Badwi's signature that combined with soaring vocals and slick production, leave no doubt that it is destined to join her other singles as a club staple.


For those who were wishing, praying and hoping for it's inclusion, yes, Release Me has been thrown in. The throbbing beat that we all fell in love with and threw our hands in the air to so many nights. It also plays nicely into Carry Me Home which, while still dance-like, has a much more demure approach. It's certainly a pleasant change of pace in comparison to the rest of the album.


Skipping forwards a few tracks is Reckless. The song it catchy and will get your foot tapping. It also sounds very similar musically to Wynter Gordon's smash hit Dirty Talk. The lyrics, however, prove that this is a Badwi production. 


The only other comparison on the album is One Step Behind which has a similar feel to Kylie's X album. This leaves Minogue dead in the water though. Badwi presents the song with enticing beats and seductive vocals that stimulate the ear and drag the listener's attention.


Badwi's other, lesser known, single from 2009 was In The Moment and has been included on the album. It's catchy and flashy. It's something else to behold and start dancing to. Slick production, steady beats and a healthy amount of bass mean that it's club ready and deserved more attention than it got.


Badwi does have a softer side. Included on the album is Believe You. The album's token ballad. It's a beautiful piano based track which matches Badwi's voice perfectly. For this one, stunning song, Badwi croons rather than belts out the tune. The performance has a raw and vulnerable quality to it that is endearing and heartfelt.


The album closer is The Other Side. Don't try and compare it to anything else that you know of Badwi. The minimalistic instruments at start gives way to the vocal dynamics that have, by now, come Badwi's trademark. She proves her vocal range is just out of this world with the high notes she hits. It's hard not to at least nod your head as the music ripples and entices the listener.


For a debut album Zoë Badwi couldn't have done any better. This is the strong type of album that is missing so often in today's music scene. While it sticks to primarily one genre, it excels and shows just how talented Badwi really is. This album is phenomenal and any lover of electronica will want this album.


Zoë is out 5th August 2011 through Neon Records


The latest single Carry Me Home:





And the club favourite, Freefallin:

Live Performance: Zoë Badwi

Live Performance: Zoë Badwi 


She's been captivating Australia's dance scene hearts for a couple of years now and she's finally releasing her debut artist album. Zoë Badwi is ready to take the Australian music industry by storm and she's got a set of pipes that will floor a nation.


From starting off with the club smash hit Release Me back in 2009, Badwi has firmly planted her name in the international dance scene. With her voice that belts out over any speakers and a style that sets a whole new standard for vocal dynamics, Badwi is set to turn the music scene on it's ear.


The comparisons are instantly obvious. She's a Melbourne girl who is not only stunning but very girl-next-door, but she's also very personable when you speak to her. Badwi is a star in her own right and nothing will dissuade that visage that she has created.


Wednesday, 3rd August 2011, Badwi had her Melbourne album launch at the Greyhound Hotel in St Kilda. Climbing up on stage, Badwi blew away the crowd that had gathered to hear what she had to offer and the response was spectacular.


There had been whispers among the crowd that Badwi would be auto-tuned within an inch of her life. Those whispers were soon squashed and the gathered audience amazed at the true talent that the tiny star had to offer. 


From the opening song Freefalling, which any good club goer should know, to the breathtaking acoustic version of Accidents Happen, Badwi left the audience in sheer amazement as she belted through song after song. There was even a stunning cover version of Estelle's classic American Boy thrown into the mix. Badwi showed how brilliant she is by performing it as an acoustic version featuring her friend Isaac.


There were members of the audience who danced along to each track and didn't stop dancing, even on the one ballad that she performed to a more than receptive audience.


There was no theatrics or spectacular visual displays. There was Badwi on stage with backing music and her voice. What a voice it is. Strong, powerful and distinctly feminine. Some vocalists tend to lose themselves in scales and electronic enhancements, Badwi isn't one of them.


This is certainly an up and coming performer that needs to be watched. From her dynamic vocal ability to club heavy tracks, she's got it mastered and carved out a spectacular niche for herself. Not only within the Australian music scene, but as an international dance artist. Should Badwi play near you, make sure you go and see her belt out your favourite track but to witness her pure bliss as she sings each song to her heart's content.


Zoë Badwi... keep an eye out for her. This is the next big music export from Australian shores and will be setting your local club ablaze with little effort.

Music Review: Roger Shah - Openminded!?

Music Review: Roger Shah - Openminded!?


When thinking of premier electronic artists who can easily grace the speakers of any music love, it's hard to go past Roger Shah. His work under his own name and several nom de plume have carved out a niche market in this fickle music world.


With his last solo album, Songbook, being back in 2008, Shah has returned with another breath taking album that is sure to turn the ears of so many back to the trusted trance beats. The steady driving rhythm that plays right through the album is an absolute delight to listen to and will get the most uncoordinated toe tapping away.


His signature mixture of stunning melodies and driving beats are ever present throughout the album. Coupled with the brilliant choice of vocalists featured throughout, it would appear that Shah can do no wrong.


The first single to be lifted from the album is Morning Star featuring the breath taking vocal dynamics of Moya Brennan. For those who don't know the voice, think Saltwater by Chicane. The sweeping sounds of Brennan's lush voice and the almost orchestral quality of Shah's music will sweep you away.


Not one to leave a good song lie, Shah has recruited Sian Evans of Kosheen fame and redone their 2002 worldwide smash Hide U. It keeps the same feel though, at the same time, takes on a life of it's own. It's hard to pick the version to prefer. The original classic, or this newer driving force. The more dynamic electronic sounds ripple with energy and can't help but captivate the club kids who remember the first release, or the new listeners who will be dragged into the magic of the beat.


Realising that he's on a good thing, Shah brings Evans back twice more on the album. She features on tracks In The Light and Shine. Both the tracks are worth any hype made about them. 


When first listening to In The Light, the ethereal quality of Evans' voice, couple with the grit of the heavy trance throbbing creates a feeling which can't be clearly described in simple words. There is something magical about the way the pair work together. This can only, we hope, be an indication of what is yet to appear in the coming years from the music industry.


Shine itself is not without merit. There isn't the harshness of the sole heavy beat. Evans' voice proves that it can be quite melodious and enrapturing all over again. It proves how she has grown as an artist since we first heard her voice with Kosheen all those years ago. Breathe in the wondrous beauty of the song and it's uplifting feeling.


Also appearing for a track on the album is Chris Jones. Hot on the heels of his success with Armin Van Buuren in the song Going Wrong, Shah has brought him in for the floor filler Obsession. Apparently it's not just a Calvin Klein fragrance. It's also an eager track that will pound out over club speakers and have the highs and lows playing out as you lose yourself to the shamelessly enticing sounds of the song.


A dramatic and spicy highlight of the album is Porque. It features the amazing talent of Salma Ros. It would appear to be a debut for the songstress as there is very little information about her out there. The rich and smooth vocals are addictive. The track can be repeated several times over and still not get boring. The excitement of the track and the divinity of the production with the voice all creates a breath taking piece of musical breakthrough.


Appearing as an added bonus for those who buy the digital copy of the album, there is a second Chris Jones track Summer Days. It's got the open and uplifting feel to it that the title would suggest. It's actually hard to describe. There's so many positive things that can be said, it's hard to pick just one or two. The song if just a phenomenon on it's own.


As with any Shah production, there is a second version of each song that is more down tempo. The serenity of each track with a laid back and ambient feel, it's hard not to have your breath catch in your throat. Having Porque stripped back is addictive. Listening to Shine as an acoustic production just enhances it's beauty. It all proves just how truly versatile Shah really is with his production. 


Openminded!? is a masterpiece of electronica. Shah is constantly evolving and learning the art of his craft and applying the evolution to each release. It's crisp and modern yet still timeless. This is a fantastic release that is ready to have the uptempo versions playing before a night out and the down tempo ready for the recovery the next day. Whatever the time, this is an album and trance lover must have.


Openminded!? is out now through Armada

Coming Soon: DJ Fresh feat Sian Evans - Louder

Coming Soon: DJ Fresh feat Sian Evans - Louder


So you know Sian Evans as the vocalist of Kosheen. She's teamed up with the amazing DJ Fresh and have dropped what is set to be one of the years biggest dance anthems.


This track is very dub step and, as a result, has come under heavy fire. Apparently, not every one likes dub step. Yeah, it is a surprise. Still, this is a testament to the ability of both Evans and DJ Fresh as they have kept their finger on the club pulse and have listened closely to what people are loving.


With Evans' soaring vocals and slick production on the part of DJ Fresh, it's an easily accessible track. Every time Evans hits the chorus, there's an urge to start pumping the fist in the air. This is certainly a collaboration that leaves most other recent releases in the genre behind. They have set the bar and they have set it high.


This is an exciting summer party tune (if you live in the northern hemisphere that is) that will rock the world around. Sorry folks, there doesn't seem to be a release date for the southern hemisphere at this stage... best bet is to add it as a favourite on youtube.


Louder is out July 3rd through Ministry of Sound


Have a look, see what you think:

Music Review: Wynter Gordon - With The Music I Die

Music Review: Wynter Gordon - With The Music I Die


So you're saying that you've not heard this dance diva? She has dominated the airwaves since the release of her solo debut album Dirty Talk which hit number one on both the Australian ARIA charts and the US Dance charts. 


Gordon has also worked with dance mastermind David Guetta on his album One More Love on the track Toyfriend. Not to mention her rise to fame started with writing the title track for Mary J. Blige's 2005 album, The Breakthrough. She's also had a hand in writing no less than four of the tracks on Jennifer Lopez's latest album Love. Gordon also worked with other dance heavy weights The Freemason's on the non-album track Believer. Adding to her credits is her track Putting It Out There which was the theme for Sydney's 2011 Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.


Not only is this woman an amazing talent at writing outstanding songs, she can also belt out a track. With slick production and catchy lyrics, there is no way that Gordon's debut artist album isn't going to be something that classics are made of.


Opening the album is the title track With The Music I Die. It's catchy, it's got a good beat. It's also not the strong album opener that one would expect. It's a not a bad track, don't be mistaken. It's just not the great track that an album should open with. Gordon's vocals sound shaky and like she is competing with the music when she really shouldn't have to.


Thankfully, here to save the album is Dirty Talk. This Australian three time platinum selling album reminds us why Gordon is in the industry. The catchy lyrics and easy beats are made for your pleasure. With seductive lyrics that put Rhianna's S&M track to shame, it's not hard to realise why this song took the world by storm.


Continuing the mission the get you dancing is Don't Stop Me. It's got a catchy riff that will get stuck in your head and a beat that bounces amiably along and is perfect if you're one of those people who like dance music before heading out. Gordon's vocal recovery is strong and confident. The music is just as powerful but, thankfully, doesn't threaten to overwhelm Gordon's singing.


The tracks Buy My Love and Still Getting Younger are both happy and playful. They prove that Gordon has set a new level and standard for all future dance diva's to live up. Her talent shines through with her dynamic and, at times, almost ethereal voice.


The track Rumba features Kevin McCall and is catchy like you wouldn't believe. It's certainly one of the reasons that even if you don't want to buy the album, you should listen to it. Fusing together dance music and Spanish guitar playing, the track is such a side step into something new, that it can't be described properly. It's a grabbing track that you want to hear.


Dance maestro Robbie Rivera also pops up on the album. He works with Gordon on the track In The Morning. It's as close to a ballad as you're going to go on this album. The rolling music that comes in waves from ambience towards up tempo and then back down to ambient is all very signature from Rivera and suits Gordon's voice perfectly. It's a track that's designed for a Sunday morning recovery after a big Saturday night out.


Gordon closes the album down with Renegade which features Static Revenger.  It's, again, quite a side step from the general sound of the rest of the album. It's very heavily electronic with the beats and basic melody. It's quite an addictive song with the way it deviates from Gordon's standard formula. It's catchy all the same, so don't worry. Just be ready to have a bump and grind dance time.


Despite the shaky opening, the album is quite strong in it's production and delivery. One slightly questionable track out of twelve is pretty good stats by anyone's imagination. this is certainly not a 'one listen only' album. The more times you listen to it, the more times you hear something different which you hadn't picked up on before. She's our new dance diva and definitely has something to share.


With The Music I Die is out now

Music Review: Above and Beyond - Group Therapy

Music Review: Above and Beyond - Group Therapy


Baby you think you've heard good music, you ain't hear nothing yet. Above and Beyond have just dropped their follow up artist album Group Therapy and it's fantastic! Hold onto your hats, you're in for an exciting ride with this album.


You learned to fall in love with Above and Beyond when they released their debut album Tri-State, now learn to fall in love again. This release follows a similar, almost ethereal, trance sound as the last did. This time, however, it branches off into it's own unique path and redefines the talent that Jono Grant, Tony McGuinness, and Paavo Siljamäki possess and sets them firmly back into the spotlight. 


There is heavy temptation to refer and compare to Tri-State but that wouldn't be fair to either body of work because both are exception beacons of what is very right in the trance world at the moment.


If you did not understand the previous comment about how they can produce an almost ethereal track, listen to the opening track Filmic. It's a clever move on the band's behalf as it is almost misleading as to where the album itself will go. It's haunting and near spiritual with the serene beauty of the track.


Unsurprisingly, they do have vocal trance tracks on this album. Rather than polluting the album with a new singer for every track, they have used the same two the entire way through. Zoe Johnston has returned to add her stunning voice to five of the tracks which includes the outstanding highlight Giving It Out. The steady driving beat and up tempo make it easily one of the most enjoyable songs on the album. 


The other vocalist on the album is Richard Bedford. We've all heard the first song that was released off the album being Sun & Moon but don't take that as the penultimate song Bedford will be featured on. There's also the stunning track On My Way To Heaven which has an almost symphonic opening before ensnaring the senses and dragging them to the dancefloor.


Then, of course, there is the latest single Thing Called Love which is a strong reminder of just where Above and Beyond started. That's moving people on a dancefloor with heady beats and pulsing rhythms. If this track hasn't become a favourite at music festivals yet, you can't help but wonder why? This is trance. This is the track people want to dance to. This is the track that trance artists inspire to write.


For those who like pure trance track with just the steady beat that will get you moving, you haven't been forgotten. As mentioned, the album opens with Filmic but then you get halfway through the album and your senses will be blown open with Prelude. Don't worry, it's not a 15 second filler track that some artists do. This is sensory bliss that will have you amazed and moving your head in time up until midway through the song where the anthemic and symphonic music kicks and you can't help but raise your eyes towards the heavens in agreement. Just wait for the tribal chanting, you'll know beauty.


Closing out the album is the other instrumental track Eternal. It's a blended elegance between piano and eletronica. There's something spellbinding by this piece of work that you will listen to it repeatedly. It really is the perfect song to have as the final track on a release. It's serenity and beauty is seamless and just breath taking.




All in all, Above and Beyond make have taken 5 years to release this album but it's more than worth it. If more trance artists could follow in this group's footsteps, we would have any amazing world of dance music out there. This album is going to be a legacy. This album is going to get played for years to come, just like it's predecessor. This album will remind you why you fell in love with trance music. You want this album.


Group Therapy is out now through Ajunabeats Records

Music Review: Josh Gabriel Presents: Winter Kills

Music Review: Josh Gabriel Presents: Winter Kills


In a musical era where reproduction and mimicry are so common place, it's refreshing to find original work that stands tall above so many other acts. The stunning release of Josh Gabriel and Meredith Cal's work under the guise of Winter Kills is welcomed with open arms to an industry where astonishingly mediocre is considered highly acceptable.


The introduction to Winter Kills was made back in 2009 with the release of the club phenomenon Deep Down. Since then, the team have been in the studio, not only working on their own debut artist album but also contributing to Armin Van Buuren's last artist album with the track Take A Moment. 


The first thing that is apparent as the album takes hold is the innovation and unrestricted musical freedom that the duo have been given to create this brilliant piece of art. The slow pick up of the first track, Tomorrow, to the steady beat of the latest single, Hot As Hades, and onto the eerie Deep Down. The album is a journey that loops back on itself and, at the same time, keeps soldiering forwards.


Meredith Cal's voice across all the tracks is haunting and enticing. The songstress has found her niche in the market full of pretty faces and dainty voices. Her singing ability is genuine and refreshing. Her talent undeniable. When this is coupled with Josh Gabriel's 25 odd year career, there is something undeniably right about the release.


Surprisingly, they even include a cover version of I'll Stand By You. It's been modernized since the original 1994 release by The Pretenders. Cal doesn't try to replicate the sound of Chrissie Hynde's voice. She finds her own footing in the track and makes it her own. The two version cannot be compared as they are so unique and different that to say one is like the other or one is better than the other is to do it no justice.


Over the 13 tracks of diverse musical creativity, it is difficult to find stand out tracks as the pair have worked hard on each and every track. The success of the album will make that apparent to anyone who takes the chance and listens all the way through the album. 


As a debut, this is the album that many artists want to release. Showcasing an awe inspiring talent and commitment to the perpetuation of the music industry by providing a legacy that will live on, even if Gabriel and Cal choose not to continue with the Winter Kills project.


Josh Gabriel Presents: Winter Kills is out now through Armada Music

Music Review: Lady Gaga - Born This Way

Music Review: Lady Gaga – Born This Way

We all knew her return was inevitable. Following up on the world wide phenomenon first album, Lady Gaga is back with her sophomore album Born This Way. It’s bold, brave and exciting. From the Queen of the Kooky, she’s proven that she has what it takes to dominate the charts for a second time.

The best thing about this album isn’t that it doesn’t try to mirror the success of The Fame/The Fame Monster. Gaga has kept a similar formula for creating her songs but has also expanded. It’s quite easy to hear the 80s influence which plays across each track while still staying true to her dance/pop roots.

By now we all know Born This Way, Judas, and Edge of Glory but the show doesn’t stop there.  For example the opening track Marry The Night. When the track starts, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d just put in the latest Glee soundtrack. That is disillusioned pretty fast when the tempo and talent kicks in. It’s a great start for the album and you just know that you are in for an absolute treat with the next 16 tracks.

SCHIEβE is a brilliant club stomping track. With the start delivered in what, to an untrained ear, sounds like flawless German, the track is just fascinating and then after you get past the intro the heavy house music influences kick in and the beat starts. Please move to the dance floor and dance like you really don’t care.

Not content to remain in just the pop style of music, 

Gaga also dabbles in electro-rock with the track Bad Kids.  It’s an interesting combination which works to Gaga’s advantage. The lyrical content of the song is a story in itself. The younger generation who are, in essence, good people but have been told that they aren’t or are a ‘bad kid’. Those labelled a degenerate and those who have nothing the offer.  It’s a song to remind them that they aren’t the lost causes and they are still a person with a heart that is pure.

There’s also the track You and I which has a country influence. It’s not the banjo playing, foot stomping, swing your partner around country.  Don’t worry it’s not talking about the cows dying or the tractor breaking down either.  It’s a story about the joy of having something special with that someone special.

Closing out the album is Edge of Glory. It’s catchy and filled with that Lady Gaga magic that singles out each track as hers. Of course, it has the club influence interpolated with the trade mark pop music that Gaga is so renowned for.

If you were wise enough to get hold of the deluxe version of the album, you will be delighted with that second disc which contains 6 remixes for your listening pleasure. Included is Born This Way (Country Road Version) which was streamed by Gaga not long after the initial release of the song. It’s such a change from the usual music we hear from Lady Gaga but it’s certainly a welcome change given fact that it does show her diversity. Also included on the second disc are remixes of Judas, SCHIEβE and another remix of Born This Way.

Many discounted Lady Gaga as a fad who was disappear quickly after the initial craze. With the release of this album, she’s proven that she isn’t going anywhere and is a musical force to be reckoned with. The album is going to garner her more attention and loyal fans. Be ready for the world to keeping going mad for Lady Gaga for some time to come. Either get on board with loving her or keep quiet. Either way, Gaga and her army of little monsters aren’t going to be silenced.

Born This Way is out Monday 23^rd May 2011.

Music Review: iiO - Exit 110 (feat Nadia Ali)

Music Review: iiO - Exit 110 (feat Nadia Ali)


After an extended break, iiO have returned with their follow up to the hugely successful debut album, Poetica. Continuing with their electronic experimentation, Exit 110 sees the return of Nadia Ali as the divine voice of the band.


It's hard to believe that it's been 10 years since iiO captured the hearts of clubbers worldwide with their debut smash Rapture. A track that has spawned dozens of remixes from the likes of Armin Van Buuren and Deep Dish. A track which, a decade on, still get heavy club rotation. Now, a decade on, we are getting new music from the band. Those looking for a rehash of old material will be sorely disappointed however. As any musical entity must, iiO have grown and so has the music. Still close to their electronic roots, it's no longer the overall ambient feel from Poetica.


The album starts strong with It'll Be Like. This is probably the closest track on the album to Poetica material we're used to. The song is captivating and enchanting. It's steady beat thumping away behind the stunning vocals. Both parts work together to capture the ear and attention of the listener.


The next three tracks More (Love Hi), All I Need and Meant to Be have quite a heavy 80s influence while still remaining uniquely modern. The seductive tones of Nadia Ali's voice and the excited energy of the music all work and fuse together to make each track an adventure for the ear. The three tracks are proof of just what made iiO such a household name.


Going sideways from the 80s style, the track I Don't Know branches off into a steady and almost tribal feel track. The beauty of the track though, is that the musical styling can't be quantified or actually defined given the fluidity of the track. It's electronic, it's tribal, it's got both a house and trance feel to it. As messy as that makes the track sound, it's actually not. It's polished perfection showing how easily the boundaries can blend.


Also on the album is P.I.C. (Partner In Crime). A track that returns to the 80s influence and even features an interpolation of Funky Town. It's a refreshing track with energy and excitement running free. 


Don't Talk to Her and Fiends are not the best tracks that iiO have ever released. As much as they are exciting and energetic, there's just something about the two tracks which make them feel a little bit like fillers which isn't something that has ever been said about an iiO track before. Each track has it's own merits, don't be mistaken. They just take a few listens before they start to grow on you.


Featured towards the end of the album is Poetica II. A musical sequel to the spoken word conclusion of the Poetica album. The track follows in the same vein as the original but Ali's voice tends to be drowned out by the music which runs over the top. It does, however, lead nicely into the closing track Exit 110. The slick production and instrumental track shows that MarKus Moser can create masterpieces on his own without Ali. 


All in all, Exit 110 is a great album. People looking for a mirror or reproduction of Poetica will be disappointed. The sound is similar but different at the same time. There will be those who don't like the evolution that has occurred and there will be bothers who embrace it. No artist can release the same album twice and iiO haven't either. Even if you don't have this album on your 'To Buy' list, at least put it on the 'To Listen' list.


Exit 110 is out now through made records

Music Review: Nadia Ali - Queen of Clubs: Diamond Edition

Music Review: Nadia Ali - Queen of Clubs: Diamond Edition


Since 2001, the world has known the voice of Nadia Ali. Her work with iiO, collaborations with some of the foremost names in dance like Armin Van Buuren, Serge Devant, Tocadisco and Chris Reece means that she is one of the most sought after vocal performers in the dance world.


Queen of Clubs: Diamond Edition is the final release in her Queen of Clubs trilogy. The three part release has previously had Ruby Edition and Onyx Edition and this completes the catalogue. Spanning the three albums has been the best of Ali's worked remix and Diamond is definitely a case of saving the best for last.


Opening the album with Rapture is like opening the cover of your favourite book. In the years since it's release, so many people have danced to the track and here is a shiny new remix (Gareth Emery Remix) of it to win over more listeners. It's still got the same feel as when it first came out and is as anthemic as every. For, what has now been, nine years - Rapture has been a club favourite and has dancers sweeping to the floor and this track will do nothing but rejuvenate the lover affair with this stunning track.


Following is the new track Call My Name which is Ali's collaboration with Ned Shepard and Sultan. The pair are some of her favourite people to work with in the studio as she revealed in an interview not long after the release of her debut artist album Embers. The beat is catchy and, as always, Ali's voice is perfectly suited and captures the ear easily.


Ride With Me (DJ Shogun Remix) and Triangle (Michael Badal Remix) follow and continue to lift the standard of each track. The album really starts to come into it's own, though, with Point The Finger (Lost Stories Remix) which is such a departure from the original which was more downtempo. The song keeps moving on with a forward sound. Ali's voice isn't overdone or altered in any way and that is part of the endearing part of the track.


If you remember iiO, you'll remember the following single At The End. Here is a trip of nostalgia for you. It's a stunning piece of music with a lifting melody which is couple with Ali's voice and a driving beat. You will be sweating while you dance to this track. This track is a reminder of why people feel in love with iiO in the first place. The dance, the melody, the beat and that stunning voice.


It would be impolite not to mention the electric inclusion of Love Story (Andy Moore Remix). The track is amazing. There's not much more that can be said about it. It's driven and it's enthralling. It's a fantastic remix and, again, proves why Ali is the household name of dance.


Finishing the album is Fantasy (Starkillerz Remix). The track is hard to describe other than a complete eargasm. From the start with the build of the song to the peaking crescendo, the track never stops growing or leading the listener on the journey.


The only downside that can really be found with the album is that it doesn't have more of the amazing remixes that are out there included (TyDi on Fine Print and Scumfrog on Love Story being examples). Though when coupled with Ruby's 14 tracks and Onyx's 18 tracks, this is a massive body of work.


The overall effect of the album is a constant reminder of why Ali is as popular as she is. She's a strong female with a voice that is pure bliss to listen to. Her music is astounding and riveting. Ali has amazing talent as does everyone who has loaned a hand to making each remix of the album (and indeed the trilogy). This album belongs in the collection of any Ali fan or DJ's collection.

Music Review: Conjure One - Exilarch

Music Review: Conjure One - Exilarch


For five years, Conjure One has sat quietly. The writing and recording process neither hurried nor urgent. Now, they have returned with the exquisite album Exilarch. Ten stand out tracks selected and put together for the listener's delight.


After the last album Extraordinary Ways, there were many fans who were quite skeptical that this album wouldn't turn into another overly commercial release as well. Fortunately, it would appear that the fears were unfounded and this is the album that should have been made five years ago.


From the opening track Like Ice, which features the stunning vocals of Jaren Cerf (who has worked with the likes of Dash Berlin, Serge Devant and Armin Van Buuren). It is plainly obvious that this is going to be an amazing album. The album moves back towards the bands roots of heavy synth with a mixture of gothic and middle eastern influence.


Following is the second track Places Like That Don't Exist. A instrumental track that seems almost of throw back from producer Rhys Fulber's days in Delerium and Front Line Assembly. The track is masterfully put together. The constant reminder of electronica with the softer melody over the top. It is quite a difficult piece to describe but certainly well worth the time to listen to.


On the track Zephyr, Jaren Cerf returns providing her remarkable amount of talent to the song. As the majestic strains of music meet with Cerf's voice, the entire album lights up brightly and sounds out beautifully. It's dark and light all at once with an uplifting sensation. A track that has to be heard to be believed.


Nargis reminds the listener of the middle eastern influences that Conjure One is well known for. Add to that the beautiful singing voice of Azam Ali and it's a stand out track. The feel of the traditional music of the East meeting the electronic movement of the West and combining in a stunning way to leave the listener enthralled.


Going forwards is the third collaboration with Jaren Cerf on the album highlight The Distance. If you buy this album for no other reason, it should be for this song alone. The song is light and airy. It's almost ethereal in it's beauty and simplicity. The track is stunning. There is no other way to describe it. The album as a whole is a stand out but this track... it is THE highlight of the album.


Popping up on the emotive track is Leah Randi who has previously worked with Delerium and Front Line Assembly. The track is I Dream in Colour and it's breath taking. When coupled with the following track Existential Exile, also featuring Randi, the effect is nothing short of amazing. It's a tribute to the fact that Conjure One has now found it's own path and is no longer following down the path the Fulber previously walked with Delerium.


Closing the album is the last instrumental track Oligarch which is breathtaking in it's own right. It's got the sweeping strings, electronic beats and, again, middle eastern influence. The track is a phenomenon. It's honestly a shame that there are nine other tracks to get through before reaching this one. 


For those who have thought that Conjure One was an attempt to cash in on his previous fame with Front Line Assembly and Delerium, this album has certainly proven them wrong. This album has the mood of Semantic Spaces, the electronics of Civilization and the darkness of Karma. Exilarch is not a poor man's Delerium. This is Conjure One, standing proudly on it's own next to Fulber's previous works.

Music Review: David Guetta - One More Love

Music Review: David Guetta - One More Love

From his meager beginnings as a DJ in the Parisian gay club Broad, David Guetta has gone from strength to strength. He gathered a powerful reputation in both the gay and straight dance culture roping in fans from near and far. Then in 1992, fortune struck his DJ table and he met Robert Owens, a Chicago-based house music specialist who heard some of Guetta's own works and picked one to do his own vocals on. The resulting song was a hit called Up and Away. He also has the distinction of being the first French to organize Ibiza in 1996.

Since that time, Guetta has released four albums of his own work with the latest release One More Love (the third incarnation of his massively popular album One Love) having just been released to the international music market. Featuring some of the biggest names in music today doing vocals on his album, the album with its moving rhythms, solid vocal delivery and melodic beats is destined to be one of the biggest dance releases of this year. 

By now, everyone has heard the lead single When Love Takes Over featuring ex-Destiny's Child member Kelly Rowland. The soaring vocals combined with the intricate piano melodies have given the track mass air play worldwide. Guetta taps Rowland's talents again on It's The Way You Love Me which is going to be a welcome addition to Guetta's already extensive repertoire. It's never been a secret that Guetta is a talented song writer and his knack for knowing what the listener wants is in the spotlight with catchy lyrics, music and sounds that catch any listener's attention. The song also highlights Rowland's truly dynamic singing ability and why she has lasted song long in such a cut throat and fickle industry. 

Not content to finish with Rowland there, he blends her talents with that of rapper Ne-Yo on the surprisingly stunning duet Choose. Guetta has successfully blended the two formidable industry heavy weights into one track and used his knowledge of what sound good in a club to good use. The almost trance sounding music blends nicely with Guetta's house music roots. The music at times does overwhelm the vocal delivery from both singers leaving the end feeling a little bit rough but still an eager listening experience.

Also featuring on this latest incarnation of the album is Rowland’s song Commander which she released herself as featuring David Guetta. The song sounds superb and is the perfect blend of Guetta’s and Rowland’s individual styles. It reinforces that they are both on the top of their game when it comes to having their ear to the ground with the dance music.

No stranger to Guetta releases is Chris Willis who features on no less than four tracks throughout the album. His Gospel sounding voice rings out loud and proud over the tracks Getting Over which is reminisce of Guetta's other smash hit Love Is Gone (which is incidentally now included on the album.) The song is actually featured twice on the album. In its original format and again when it was recorded also featuring Fergie (of Black Eyed Peas fame) and LMFAO. It’s okay, I had no idea who they were either and after hearing the track, I have no real inclination to know who they are.

Willis also pops up on the outstanding track Sound of Letting Go which borders on an electronic rock song. The background music almost falls prey to stereotyped dance anthems. It starts off with almost an early to mid-90's synth track and then becomes an almost synth heavy track that belongs more in a rock category. The overall effect makes it a track that will be played frequenty. Fortunately, Willis' voice is strong enough not to be overwhelmed by the musical backing and features beautifully about halfway through when the music makes a brief pause.

It would be unforgivable to not mention the inclusion of I Gotta Feeling by the Black Eyed Peas which Guetta helped write and produce for their album The E.N.D. earlier this year. The version on Guetta's album is the FMIF Remix Edit which has a more electronic feel than that on the Black Eyed Peas release. 

Enjoying much airplay at the moment is Guetta's song Sexy B***h featuring work with Akon. The singer has long been known for his melodic abilities and hip-hop attitude. Guetta has taken these two factors into account and has worked them together nicely creating a track that has an overall invitingly sexy appeal. The beat is one that you can tap your foot to quite easily and the backing music, as with many of the tracks, features an easily recognizable riff. 

Showing that Guetta is truly a master of multiple dance genres is the ambient chill out track If We Ever featuring the talents of Makeba. The music is lush and the vocal delivery relaxed and liquid. If ever there was a track readymade for featuring and headlining a Ministry of Sound Chill-out volume, this is it. The track feels like it has just fallen into place easily and leaves you just wanting to lie back and bask in the sheer beauty of the song. 

It’s at this point that we now run into Guetta’s latest smash hit with the dynamic Rihanna, Who’s That Chick? Which blends in perfectly with the rest of the album. It has the distinct Guetta feeling with the catchy riffs and lyrics. Rihanna’s voice, as always, sounds delightful but it was surprising to hear just how much they used a vocal exciter. It was unnecessary but hey, whatever blows their hair back.

Also now included on the album is his remix of the Madonna hit Revolver. It’s catchy and easy to listen to. As a whole, if you are expecting the earth to be moved, you’re not going to find it with this mix. It’s well done, just not real exciting.

As homage to where he has come from, Guetta has also included three of his past hits on the album. The World Is Mine which features JD Davis, Love Is Gone featuring Chris Willis and the track that launched him into international stardom Love Don’t Let Me Go (Walk Away). All three tracks have played integral parts in getting Guetta to where he is today. Each song with its own merit, its own piece of Guetta history and its own right to be played at a thumping level and dragging people onto the dancefloor.

The album is an amazing piece of musical creativity with Guetta traversing several different dance genres. The well constructed house and trance beats meets the laid back ambience. Guetta then ropes in some of the biggest names in the hip-hop genre to add their own magic to his music. With names like Kelly Rowland, Ne-Yo, Kelis and Akon, how can anyone not question just what makes this man so talented that these people are lining up to work with him. The truth is in the beats, the bass and the melody. The testament to Guetta's ability stands here in the finished product. One More Love is a complete musical journey on it's own and an album which can be put on heavy rotation without fear of becoming bored with listening to it.

Music Review: The Black Eyed Peas - The Beginning

Music Review: The Black Eyed Peas - The Beginning


A few weeks back, there was a notice about a new track from The Black Eyed Peas called The Time (Dirty Bit). At the time, it was met with mixed reception but since then, it has gone on to become quite a popular track. In light of that, the band have now release the follow up album to the international smash hit album The E.N.D. and it's called The Beginning. 


Going in a new direction from where they came, the group seems to now be more electronic then hip hop. All the original elements are still there but it's just changed the feel of the music. It's not detrimental to the band at all, it's actually quite the opposite. The new sound is fantastic and very listenable.


The first track, as we know, is The Time (Dirty Bit) and it's been getting heavy radio play and thumping out in a lot of clubs recently. If you haven't heard it, there's something wrong with your ears. It is literally playing everywhere and more and more people are starting to love it.


Some of the other tracks have a distinct 80's feel. A prime example is the the third track Love You Long Time. The synth heavy opening is reminisce of music decades past. Most people would actually find that concept quite comforting. After all, who wants to relive the mullet, shoulder pads and leg warmers? Well, this track will certainly be a little reminder of that era. Fortunately it's a great track and one that can be played over and over.


The biggest reminder of their hip hop background comes to the fore on Do It Like This. It's still got quite a heavy electronica influence but it's tempered out by the vocal performance.  It's actually quite refreshing and a nice change of pace. This track will sit quite well on their greatest hits album (whenever in the future it may be release) with some of their earlier works.


Listening to the album in it's entirety, it's easy to hear that their work with David Guetta has influenced the music they write. Some of the Guetta's trademark 'ticking' appears on some of the tracks. Whether or not  they are conscious of it remains to be seen but it's not a bad overall effect.


Venturing into near ballad territory is Just Can't Get Enough. It's not a ballad, don't worry.  It starts to stray in that direction that way though. Fergie's vocals are beautiful and sweet. She actual sings in a higher pitch which suits her voice quite well. It's an enjoyable track with a nice mix of beats and sentimentality.


All in all, this is a phenomenal release. It's an amazing blend of electronica and hip hop. It's setting an all new standard for other music makers to live up to. The quartet work well together and have released hit after hit with their work. No album has been lack-luster and this album is no exception. As their track Play It Loud says:


"I pledge my allegiance,
To rhythm and sound.
Music is my medicine,
Let the rhythm pound."