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
A review of many pop culture items - movies, music, books, games and the odd live performance.
Showing posts with label house music. Show all posts
Showing posts with label house music. Show all posts
Monday, August 15, 2011
Thursday, August 4, 2011
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:
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:
Monday, June 6, 2011
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
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
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Music Review: Britney Spears - Femme Fatale
Music Review: Britney Spears - Femme Fatale
After a dismissal reception to her last album, Circus
, Britney has returned with a brand new album which she says her best album yet. Amazingly, this album isn't terrible. Go figure.
The album is full of dance classics. A hint of dub step, a bit of house throb and a pinch (handful) of auto tune. That aside, the overall feel of the album will appeal to people who have grown with Britney and the club culture. Each song is unique and enjoyable.
The album starts off with the amazing track Til The World Ends. It loops and throbs. The sound of the music is destined to grace club speakers worldwide. It's actually a bit confusing that this isn't the lead single off the album.
Hold It Against Me is the song that got everyone's attention back on Britney. It's not following her usual generic radio disposable pop crap. It shows a bit of substance. Maybe not lyrically, but with the bump and grind that play throughout the track, it's certainly not something to be ignored.
The only real ballad on the album (no, it's okay - you don't need to cringe at this one) is Inside Out. The stop start at the feel of the track will have you wondering if the track is playing. It's creative if the artistic types are to be believed. The song sounds like something that is akin to Madonna's Ray of Light
era. The difference is that this song is a lot more sexier. With the chorus starting "So come on, won't you give me something to remember, Baby shut your mouth and turn me inside out." Someone pass me a cold drink.
One of the highlights of the track is I Wanna Go. The heavy thump of the bass and thrilling electronic sound will please clubbers worldwide. It will also need very little remixing to be a club anthem. This could very easily be the best work she has released in a long time. You want the album for this track alone.
People listening to the track (Drop Dead) Beautiful could be forgiven for thinking that they were listening to Blow by Ke$ha with the backing tracks sounding near identical. The track takes on it's own life with the exciting rapping by guest vocalist Sabi. The track is certainly easy to listen to but isn't one of the highlights. It's a fill in track much like the following track Seal It With A Kiss. The vocals are well done and production slick, it won't set your heart on fire though.
Big Fat Bass. It's a Will.I.Am track. I was prepared to shake my head and fill my ears with hot wax. Amazingly, I didn't need to. The track has a similar feeling to his Black Eyed Peas work while still keeping the Britney feel. It's got the right sounds to have feet stomping and hips gyrating. Throbbing bass and repetitive lyrics. It's a club kid dream.
Trouble for Me sounds like something you would expect to hear on a Ministry of Sound album. It's a surprise to hear on an UNremixed Britney track. It may have something to do with the producer being Fraiser T. Smith who has written tracks for the likes of Taio Cruz, Kylie Minogue and Cheryl Cole. The production of this track is amazing.
Finishing the album is Criminal which, after an album of electronic whistles, bangs and beeps is refreshing. The album is a guitar driven piece which is mid-tempo. The track is different from anything else on the album and has it's own unique flavour.
This is the album Britney should have made instead of Circus. It's track after track of stunning music. The bass throbs. The hooks and beeps drag you in. The album is a piece of dance music history and proves that Spears will continue to exist much the same as Madonna, constantly re-inventing herself and bringing something new to the table with each new album.
Femme Fatale is out in Australia 25th March 2011 and 29th March 2011 worldwide.
After a dismissal reception to her last album, Circus
, Britney has returned with a brand new album which she says her best album yet. Amazingly, this album isn't terrible. Go figure.The album is full of dance classics. A hint of dub step, a bit of house throb and a pinch (handful) of auto tune. That aside, the overall feel of the album will appeal to people who have grown with Britney and the club culture. Each song is unique and enjoyable.
The album starts off with the amazing track Til The World Ends. It loops and throbs. The sound of the music is destined to grace club speakers worldwide. It's actually a bit confusing that this isn't the lead single off the album.
Hold It Against Me is the song that got everyone's attention back on Britney. It's not following her usual generic radio disposable pop crap. It shows a bit of substance. Maybe not lyrically, but with the bump and grind that play throughout the track, it's certainly not something to be ignored.
The only real ballad on the album (no, it's okay - you don't need to cringe at this one) is Inside Out. The stop start at the feel of the track will have you wondering if the track is playing. It's creative if the artistic types are to be believed. The song sounds like something that is akin to Madonna's Ray of Light
era. The difference is that this song is a lot more sexier. With the chorus starting "So come on, won't you give me something to remember, Baby shut your mouth and turn me inside out." Someone pass me a cold drink.One of the highlights of the track is I Wanna Go. The heavy thump of the bass and thrilling electronic sound will please clubbers worldwide. It will also need very little remixing to be a club anthem. This could very easily be the best work she has released in a long time. You want the album for this track alone.
People listening to the track (Drop Dead) Beautiful could be forgiven for thinking that they were listening to Blow by Ke$ha with the backing tracks sounding near identical. The track takes on it's own life with the exciting rapping by guest vocalist Sabi. The track is certainly easy to listen to but isn't one of the highlights. It's a fill in track much like the following track Seal It With A Kiss. The vocals are well done and production slick, it won't set your heart on fire though.
Big Fat Bass. It's a Will.I.Am track. I was prepared to shake my head and fill my ears with hot wax. Amazingly, I didn't need to. The track has a similar feeling to his Black Eyed Peas work while still keeping the Britney feel. It's got the right sounds to have feet stomping and hips gyrating. Throbbing bass and repetitive lyrics. It's a club kid dream.
Trouble for Me sounds like something you would expect to hear on a Ministry of Sound album. It's a surprise to hear on an UNremixed Britney track. It may have something to do with the producer being Fraiser T. Smith who has written tracks for the likes of Taio Cruz, Kylie Minogue and Cheryl Cole. The production of this track is amazing.
Finishing the album is Criminal which, after an album of electronic whistles, bangs and beeps is refreshing. The album is a guitar driven piece which is mid-tempo. The track is different from anything else on the album and has it's own unique flavour.
This is the album Britney should have made instead of Circus. It's track after track of stunning music. The bass throbs. The hooks and beeps drag you in. The album is a piece of dance music history and proves that Spears will continue to exist much the same as Madonna, constantly re-inventing herself and bringing something new to the table with each new album.
Femme Fatale is out in Australia 25th March 2011 and 29th March 2011 worldwide.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
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.
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.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
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.
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.
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.Thursday, December 9, 2010
Music Review: Deadmau5 - 4x4=12
Music Review: Deadmau5 - 4x4=12
Who doesn't love an awe inspiring dance release? Who doesn't love a music maker who wears a huge mouse head while performing? Throw these two together and you have Deadmau5, a Canadian music make (don't call him a DJ). He's back with his latest album, 4x4=12
and ready to, again, remind the world just who he is. A very talented man who is quite skilled at his art and this release is no different. With his own flare, he mixes in doses of house and electronica to create dancefloor bliss.
Each and every piece of music on the album is easily recognizable as a Deadmau5 original. The beats, the thump, the feel. The arrangements all have a familiar feel, yet maintain a certainly uniqueness that makes this release as anticipated as any of his previous efforts.
For anyone who loves the dance festival sound, will absolutely adore the track Sofi Needs a Ladder with guest vocalist Sofi Toula. It's the type of song that you expect to hear thumping out on a hot afternoon while grinding along to a steady beat at your favourite musical festival.
Other listeners have fallen in love with tracks Animal Rights which is, strangely, reminisce of Human After All which was originally made by Daft Punk. Don't worry though, this is still an original piece and going to be playing for some time yet.
It really is hard to pick out major highlights with this album as there are just so many amazing tracks. It really is quite fascinating how such a big dose of awesome can be contained within 11 tracks. The epic track of the album though, coming in at over 10 minutes, is Cthulu Sleeps. Worried that a track that length will put you to sleep? You obviously haven't heard the track then. The steady build, the journey, the excitement and the crescendo. You really aren't ever coming down.
Sorry to the listeners who want to hear so half-assed rehash of Faxing Berlin, Jaded or even Strobe. You aren't going to find it on this album. This is all fresh tracks and there's no going over already walked paths. There's a reason Deadmau5's music is called progressive. That's because it is and it's certainly moving forwards and creating entire new possibilities of where to go with electronica in the future.
This album will have fans screaming, dance floors jumping and the subwoofers thumpings. It's all the good things of dance music which seems to have disappeared over the years. It's a solid release that is going to entice so many more people into the fold. The album parties hard and everyone listens. To relive your favourite dance festival, grab this album. You won't be disappointed.
4x4=12 is out now!
Who doesn't love an awe inspiring dance release? Who doesn't love a music maker who wears a huge mouse head while performing? Throw these two together and you have Deadmau5, a Canadian music make (don't call him a DJ). He's back with his latest album, 4x4=12
and ready to, again, remind the world just who he is. A very talented man who is quite skilled at his art and this release is no different. With his own flare, he mixes in doses of house and electronica to create dancefloor bliss.Each and every piece of music on the album is easily recognizable as a Deadmau5 original. The beats, the thump, the feel. The arrangements all have a familiar feel, yet maintain a certainly uniqueness that makes this release as anticipated as any of his previous efforts.
For anyone who loves the dance festival sound, will absolutely adore the track Sofi Needs a Ladder with guest vocalist Sofi Toula. It's the type of song that you expect to hear thumping out on a hot afternoon while grinding along to a steady beat at your favourite musical festival.
Other listeners have fallen in love with tracks Animal Rights which is, strangely, reminisce of Human After All which was originally made by Daft Punk. Don't worry though, this is still an original piece and going to be playing for some time yet.
It really is hard to pick out major highlights with this album as there are just so many amazing tracks. It really is quite fascinating how such a big dose of awesome can be contained within 11 tracks. The epic track of the album though, coming in at over 10 minutes, is Cthulu Sleeps. Worried that a track that length will put you to sleep? You obviously haven't heard the track then. The steady build, the journey, the excitement and the crescendo. You really aren't ever coming down.
Sorry to the listeners who want to hear so half-assed rehash of Faxing Berlin, Jaded or even Strobe. You aren't going to find it on this album. This is all fresh tracks and there's no going over already walked paths. There's a reason Deadmau5's music is called progressive. That's because it is and it's certainly moving forwards and creating entire new possibilities of where to go with electronica in the future.
This album will have fans screaming, dance floors jumping and the subwoofers thumpings. It's all the good things of dance music which seems to have disappeared over the years. It's a solid release that is going to entice so many more people into the fold. The album parties hard and everyone listens. To relive your favourite dance festival, grab this album. You won't be disappointed.
4x4=12
is out now!
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