Summer started last week and it's time for hot jams pumping from hot cars on hot summer afternoons. These are the jams I've started pumping from my Kia:
Selena Gomez & The Scene - "Love You Like A Love Song"
You may recall that a (pre-Beibs) Selena Gomez single "Naturally" was my jam last spring. It was everything that breezy teen dance pop should be. Her follow up album Year Without Rain had a stunning title track. Now lil' miss "Wizards Of Waverly Place" is blowing up my speakers now. "Who Says" she's not perfect?
Rye Rye feat Robyn - "Never Will Be Mine"
Baltimore teen rapper Rye Rye hooks up with the queen of "sad gay disco songs" for a slow rap about giving up on loser boyfs. It's a sneaky little single, it slips into your brain and stays for days.
Nicki Minaj - "Super Bass"
The poppiest single from Barbie so far. While the rap has some hot moments (though not as craycray as "Monster" or "Roman's Revenge"), it's the chorus that just says dancing by the pool. My my, it's like pelican fly... and summery fresh! Also, it's Taylor Swift approved!
Lady Gaga - "Edge Of Glory"
The video is crap, but this power ballad is basically "Don't Stop Believing" for a new millennium (as sung in the style of Pat Benatar.)
Neon Trees - "Your Surrender"
The "Animal"istic ones are back with more new wave dance rock goodness.
Tinie Tempah feat Eric Turner - "Written In The Stars"
No, it's not a cover of that LeeAnn Rimes/Elton John duet from Aida. It's Brit rap with a hot hook (sung by a hot hipster!)
Who did I miss? Tell me in the comments!
Showing posts with label Robyn. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Robyn. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Sunday, January 9, 2011
The Top 30 Songs of 2010!
OK people! I have been writer's blocked (pick a reason: too happy in love to write/semi-stupefied with depression/kidnapped by vampires that sparkle/all of the above) for too long! So here goes my favorite blog exercise: list-making!
30. "Sticky With Champagne" - Semi-Precious Weapons You Love You
Glam rock upstarts who toured with Lady Gaga (bisexual lead singer Justin Tranter is a friend) released their second album, which featured this ode to debauchery that is so rock n roll.
29. "Do It Like A Dude" - Jessie J Who You Are
Girls going off over gender-based double standards is nothing new. Remember Xtina and Lil' Kim's "Can't Hold Us Down"? But no one has made it sound so dirty and raw as Jessie J. Her first single, a hit in the UK, comes on the heels of songwriting credits for songs like "Party In The USA."
28. "Need You Now" - Lady Antebellum Need You Now
Tale as old as time, song as old as rhyme. Breaking up is hard to do, but staying broken up when you're drunk and horny? Impossible. Making all that sounds sweet and beautiful? Lady A's job. Not mine.
27. "Sex & Violence" - Scissor Sisters Night Work
The 80s are calling, they are telling the Scissor Sisters to keep their sound. They do it better, anyway.
26. "Radioactive" - Kings Of Leon Come Around Sundown
That buzzing bass, that joyful chorus, that beat. "Radioactive" is just power, man.
25. "Animal" - Neon Trees Habits
Neon Trees are filling that void that The Killers left when they got all Midwestern Realness on us. An ode to animalistic rutting that have lit the pop charts on fire, "Animal" is dancable rock at it's most rocking. Plus, they have a chick drummer. I love that.
24. "A Year Without Rain" - Selena Gomez & The Scene A Year Without Rain
Perfect techno is so hard to do. Either it's too shrill or the beat plods on. Sometimes it sounds just thrown together to get gay guys on the floor at the club. But that's what makes "A Year Without Rain" so perfect. Sure, the lyrical concept is ripped from Everything But The Girl but that just makes it even more awesome. I kinda have a girl crush on Selena. She's so pretty.
23. "Raise Your Glass" - P!nk Greatest Hits... So Far!!
P!nk gives it up for the underdog with a toast to everyone who has ever been "treated like a fool." All too perfect for this moment in time.
22. "Jar Of Hearts" - Christina Perri Album TBA
After being featured on So You Think You Can Dance, this unsigned pop singer/songwriter had a hit on her hands with this stunning piano and violin ballad. Christina pours out the heartbreak in the aftermath of a selfish lover.
21. "U Should Know Better" - Robyn & Snoop Dogg Body Talk Pt 2 and Body Talk
Trading brags like old school trashing talking MCs, Swedish pop sensation and Dee Oh Double Jizzle get more and more ridiculous.
20. "Barbra Streisand" - Duck Sauce Album TBA
A strange twisted instrumental with two lyrics: a melodious "ooh" and "Barbara Streisand." The quintessential New Yorker serves as a springboard for this bouncy house tune that brings out all the hipsters for the video.
19. "Monster" - Kanye West feat Bon Iver, Rick Ross, Jay-Z and Nicki Minaj My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
'Ye has an ego bigger than Frankenstein's monster and an appetite for applause that would make Dracula blush. But he has the drive for success and a talent to back it up. But here, Nicki Minaj shines brighter than the blood dripping from the Wolfman's teeth. Every line a threat, every word spoken so eloquently and full of venom, she is Medusa and Lady Gaga rolled in one. "Pink wig, thick ass, give 'em whiplash" Points off for Jay-Z phoning it in and way too much use of the N-word.
18. "All The Lovers" - Kylie Minogue Aphrodite
Sleek Euro-disco from the queen of sleek Euro-Disco.
17. "Only Girl In The World" - Rihanna Loud
I may have been the only person in the world to like the darkness of Rihanna's Rated R, but I was quite pleased with her return to the dancefloor. When I hear this song, I feel like the only girl in the world.
16. "King Of Anything" - Sara Bareilles Kaleidoscope Heart
Some people are asses. Smug, self-righteous know-it-alls who will not shut up. But enough about me. Let's talk about Sara's brilliant and, dare I say, sunny kiss-off to such a prick. Piano pop is so passive agressive.
15. "Fuck You" - Cee Lo Green The Lady Killer
As a child I was so sheltered I thought the "f-word" was "fart." As an adult, I found it a powerful word, used best when you want to nail a point home. Clearly, Cee Lo has a point. Stax horns and Motown background vocals have never created a break up song so angry until now.
14. "Bed Intruder Song" - Antoine Dodson & The Gregory Brothers feat Kelly Dodson iTunes Single
Antoine was my hero after pulling an attempted rapist off his sister and then going off on the idiot on the news. Then came the brilliant remix of said interview that took internet fame to the Billboard charts and my playlists.
13. "Your Love" - Nicki Minaj Pink Friday
Nicki's raps on her debut album may not match the guest verses she's been throwing out all year, but when you rely so heavily on a sample from Annie Lennox and include a chorus that is one part sweet and one part hard you can't help but love it.
12. "Like A G6" - Far*East Movement feat. Cataracs & Dev Free Wired
Have you ever felt like you lost a few brain cells listening to a song, but couldn't stop listening? That's the story of "Like A G6" - a beat like a taut rubberband and rap that could be in Chinese for all I care about it. The hook is mere white-girl gang posturing, leaving a song with as much substance as Cool Whip. And I keep coming back for another spoonful.
11. "Rolling In The Deep" - Adele 21
If you ever looked at my music collection, you know I love a slow-burning torch song. The lead single from Adele's 2011 album is torchy and sung with a confidence not found on 19. Perhaps she's grown up? Add a great beat and piano and I am hooked.
10. "Alejandro" - Lady Gaga The Fame Monster
Lady G may never make a single as fabulous as "Bad Romance" but stealing from Swedish pop masters ABBA for a title and Ace Of Base for a melody isn't a shabby way to create magic. The video may have been too crazy by half, but the song grabs you by the hair and will not let go.
9. "Whip My Hair" - Willow Album TBA
Oh, Scientology! You do create some adorable moppets. See also: Suri Cruise. Who knew a 9-year-old would force us all to risk whiplash just to get our groove on? I don't condone child labor, but I cannot resist!
8. "Shark In the Water" - V.V. Brown Travelling Like The Light
The Fauxtown boom led by Amy Winehouse may be winding down, but that doesn't mean we should retire our tambourines just yet. This light and airy pop-soul single from the British Ms. Brown is a gem.
7. "We R Who We R" - Ke$ha Cannibal
Even though the trashiest pop singer since Paris Hilton (oh snap!) can't spell to save her life, and never met a glitter-based make-up product she didn't love, I find her blend of party-hearty techno and love-everybody neo-hippie message refreshing. "We R Who We R" stands in solidarity with bullied youths, and the videos image of K-Dolla falling from a building but being caught by her fans is beautiful. In a totally trashy way.
6. "Un-thinkable (I'm Ready)" - Alicia Keys The Element Of Freedom
Alicia has always has a brilliant knack for pop sounds that don't bury the soul in her voice and lyrics. This smooth-as-glass production is full of mood and a quietly dark beauty.
5. "Heavy In Your Arms" - Florence + The Machine The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Soundtrack
Taylor Lautner's well-honed abs are not the only good thing to come from the filmed version of Stephanie Meyer's bestselling novels. This cut from the soundtrack to the third film is cinematic in scope, and it's little wonder Flo's debut album was called Lungs, the girl has plenty of power residing there.
4. "If I Die Young" - The Band Perry The Band Perry
Country music has always depended on melancholic songs that reflect a belief in the hereafter, but none did it in such an emo way as The Band Perry on their debut single. After the recent trend of teen suicides, the song takes on an even sadder tone.
3. "Naturally" - Selena Gomez & The Scene Kiss & Tell
Produced by the same outfit as fellow Disney star Miley Cyrus's "See You Again," "Naturally" is teen dance pop at its catchiest! The pulsing beat, Selena's sweet vocals and that chorus that just won't stop ringing in your brain are a deadly combo.
2. "Invisible Light" - Scissor Sisters Night Work
If adding Ian McKellen to your Stuart Price-helmed epic story-song of debauched clubbing isn't gay enough for you, then you're too demanding. The sleek dance sound is the Sisters' at the best.
1. "Dancing On My Own" - Robyn Body Talk Pt. 1 and Body Talk
From the first of her three EPs this year come this tribute to the "sad gay disco songs" Robyn loves. Sheer pop beauty, sad yet dancable at the same time, "Dancing On My Own" secedes her prior UK smashes "With Every Heartbeat" and "Be Mine!" as the soundtrack for heartbreak.
30. "Sticky With Champagne" - Semi-Precious Weapons You Love You
Glam rock upstarts who toured with Lady Gaga (bisexual lead singer Justin Tranter is a friend) released their second album, which featured this ode to debauchery that is so rock n roll.
29. "Do It Like A Dude" - Jessie J Who You Are
Girls going off over gender-based double standards is nothing new. Remember Xtina and Lil' Kim's "Can't Hold Us Down"? But no one has made it sound so dirty and raw as Jessie J. Her first single, a hit in the UK, comes on the heels of songwriting credits for songs like "Party In The USA."
28. "Need You Now" - Lady Antebellum Need You Now
Tale as old as time, song as old as rhyme. Breaking up is hard to do, but staying broken up when you're drunk and horny? Impossible. Making all that sounds sweet and beautiful? Lady A's job. Not mine.
27. "Sex & Violence" - Scissor Sisters Night Work
The 80s are calling, they are telling the Scissor Sisters to keep their sound. They do it better, anyway.
26. "Radioactive" - Kings Of Leon Come Around Sundown
That buzzing bass, that joyful chorus, that beat. "Radioactive" is just power, man.
25. "Animal" - Neon Trees Habits
Neon Trees are filling that void that The Killers left when they got all Midwestern Realness on us. An ode to animalistic rutting that have lit the pop charts on fire, "Animal" is dancable rock at it's most rocking. Plus, they have a chick drummer. I love that.
24. "A Year Without Rain" - Selena Gomez & The Scene A Year Without Rain
Perfect techno is so hard to do. Either it's too shrill or the beat plods on. Sometimes it sounds just thrown together to get gay guys on the floor at the club. But that's what makes "A Year Without Rain" so perfect. Sure, the lyrical concept is ripped from Everything But The Girl but that just makes it even more awesome. I kinda have a girl crush on Selena. She's so pretty.
23. "Raise Your Glass" - P!nk Greatest Hits... So Far!!
P!nk gives it up for the underdog with a toast to everyone who has ever been "treated like a fool." All too perfect for this moment in time.
22. "Jar Of Hearts" - Christina Perri Album TBA
After being featured on So You Think You Can Dance, this unsigned pop singer/songwriter had a hit on her hands with this stunning piano and violin ballad. Christina pours out the heartbreak in the aftermath of a selfish lover.
21. "U Should Know Better" - Robyn & Snoop Dogg Body Talk Pt 2 and Body Talk
Trading brags like old school trashing talking MCs, Swedish pop sensation and Dee Oh Double Jizzle get more and more ridiculous.
20. "Barbra Streisand" - Duck Sauce Album TBA
A strange twisted instrumental with two lyrics: a melodious "ooh" and "Barbara Streisand." The quintessential New Yorker serves as a springboard for this bouncy house tune that brings out all the hipsters for the video.
19. "Monster" - Kanye West feat Bon Iver, Rick Ross, Jay-Z and Nicki Minaj My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
'Ye has an ego bigger than Frankenstein's monster and an appetite for applause that would make Dracula blush. But he has the drive for success and a talent to back it up. But here, Nicki Minaj shines brighter than the blood dripping from the Wolfman's teeth. Every line a threat, every word spoken so eloquently and full of venom, she is Medusa and Lady Gaga rolled in one. "Pink wig, thick ass, give 'em whiplash" Points off for Jay-Z phoning it in and way too much use of the N-word.
18. "All The Lovers" - Kylie Minogue Aphrodite
Sleek Euro-disco from the queen of sleek Euro-Disco.
17. "Only Girl In The World" - Rihanna Loud
I may have been the only person in the world to like the darkness of Rihanna's Rated R, but I was quite pleased with her return to the dancefloor. When I hear this song, I feel like the only girl in the world.
16. "King Of Anything" - Sara Bareilles Kaleidoscope Heart
Some people are asses. Smug, self-righteous know-it-alls who will not shut up. But enough about me. Let's talk about Sara's brilliant and, dare I say, sunny kiss-off to such a prick. Piano pop is so passive agressive.
15. "Fuck You" - Cee Lo Green The Lady Killer
As a child I was so sheltered I thought the "f-word" was "fart." As an adult, I found it a powerful word, used best when you want to nail a point home. Clearly, Cee Lo has a point. Stax horns and Motown background vocals have never created a break up song so angry until now.
14. "Bed Intruder Song" - Antoine Dodson & The Gregory Brothers feat Kelly Dodson iTunes Single
Antoine was my hero after pulling an attempted rapist off his sister and then going off on the idiot on the news. Then came the brilliant remix of said interview that took internet fame to the Billboard charts and my playlists.
13. "Your Love" - Nicki Minaj Pink Friday
Nicki's raps on her debut album may not match the guest verses she's been throwing out all year, but when you rely so heavily on a sample from Annie Lennox and include a chorus that is one part sweet and one part hard you can't help but love it.
12. "Like A G6" - Far*East Movement feat. Cataracs & Dev Free Wired
Have you ever felt like you lost a few brain cells listening to a song, but couldn't stop listening? That's the story of "Like A G6" - a beat like a taut rubberband and rap that could be in Chinese for all I care about it. The hook is mere white-girl gang posturing, leaving a song with as much substance as Cool Whip. And I keep coming back for another spoonful.
11. "Rolling In The Deep" - Adele 21
If you ever looked at my music collection, you know I love a slow-burning torch song. The lead single from Adele's 2011 album is torchy and sung with a confidence not found on 19. Perhaps she's grown up? Add a great beat and piano and I am hooked.
10. "Alejandro" - Lady Gaga The Fame Monster
Lady G may never make a single as fabulous as "Bad Romance" but stealing from Swedish pop masters ABBA for a title and Ace Of Base for a melody isn't a shabby way to create magic. The video may have been too crazy by half, but the song grabs you by the hair and will not let go.
9. "Whip My Hair" - Willow Album TBA
Oh, Scientology! You do create some adorable moppets. See also: Suri Cruise. Who knew a 9-year-old would force us all to risk whiplash just to get our groove on? I don't condone child labor, but I cannot resist!
8. "Shark In the Water" - V.V. Brown Travelling Like The Light
The Fauxtown boom led by Amy Winehouse may be winding down, but that doesn't mean we should retire our tambourines just yet. This light and airy pop-soul single from the British Ms. Brown is a gem.
7. "We R Who We R" - Ke$ha Cannibal
Even though the trashiest pop singer since Paris Hilton (oh snap!) can't spell to save her life, and never met a glitter-based make-up product she didn't love, I find her blend of party-hearty techno and love-everybody neo-hippie message refreshing. "We R Who We R" stands in solidarity with bullied youths, and the videos image of K-Dolla falling from a building but being caught by her fans is beautiful. In a totally trashy way.
6. "Un-thinkable (I'm Ready)" - Alicia Keys The Element Of Freedom
Alicia has always has a brilliant knack for pop sounds that don't bury the soul in her voice and lyrics. This smooth-as-glass production is full of mood and a quietly dark beauty.
5. "Heavy In Your Arms" - Florence + The Machine The Twilight Saga: Eclipse Soundtrack
Taylor Lautner's well-honed abs are not the only good thing to come from the filmed version of Stephanie Meyer's bestselling novels. This cut from the soundtrack to the third film is cinematic in scope, and it's little wonder Flo's debut album was called Lungs, the girl has plenty of power residing there.
4. "If I Die Young" - The Band Perry The Band Perry
Country music has always depended on melancholic songs that reflect a belief in the hereafter, but none did it in such an emo way as The Band Perry on their debut single. After the recent trend of teen suicides, the song takes on an even sadder tone.
3. "Naturally" - Selena Gomez & The Scene Kiss & Tell
Produced by the same outfit as fellow Disney star Miley Cyrus's "See You Again," "Naturally" is teen dance pop at its catchiest! The pulsing beat, Selena's sweet vocals and that chorus that just won't stop ringing in your brain are a deadly combo.
2. "Invisible Light" - Scissor Sisters Night Work
If adding Ian McKellen to your Stuart Price-helmed epic story-song of debauched clubbing isn't gay enough for you, then you're too demanding. The sleek dance sound is the Sisters' at the best.
1. "Dancing On My Own" - Robyn Body Talk Pt. 1 and Body Talk
From the first of her three EPs this year come this tribute to the "sad gay disco songs" Robyn loves. Sheer pop beauty, sad yet dancable at the same time, "Dancing On My Own" secedes her prior UK smashes "With Every Heartbeat" and "Be Mine!" as the soundtrack for heartbreak.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Review: Robyn - "Body Talk" (Part 1 and 2)
Longtime readers of my blog may recall that I was obsessed with Robyn's triumphant return to the international pop scene in 2007 and 2008. While America didn't get on board with the "Show Me Love" singer's off-kilter millennium pop, the rest of the world was grooving to her collaboration with Kleerup and hijacking of Dave Chappelle lines.Girlfriend is back, with a three album cycle called Body Talk. Part 1 released earlier this year and I dropped the ball with coverage. The 7 song disc (iTunes tacks on two bonus tracks) is fantastic. Some songs are a little schticky - "Dancehall Queen" is a reggae-via-No-Doubt jam, "Don't F******g Tell Me What To Do" is a monotone wonder and "None of Dem" hooks Robyn up with previous collaborator Royksopp for a M.I.A.-style world-meets-techno thing. The girl has a thing for robots, following up Robyn's "Robotboy" and Junior's "The Girl And The Robot" with Body Talk's "Fembot." It's an obsession I can get behind if the tunes stay this good. The real star is lead single, "Dancing On My Own" which finds Robyn returning to the heart-wrenching "sad gay disco songs" template of "Be Mine!" and "With Every Heartbeat." She has a wheelhouse she can embrace. The album closes with an acoustic version of "Hang With Me" - which shows up again on Part 2 in it's pop version.
Body Talk Part 2 is a little more focused. Euro-pop curls up with hip-hop and dance, with lots of 80s influences. The first four songs create a mini-album of dancefloor fillers with heart and soul like "Hang With Me." Meanwhile, "We Dance To The Beat" is the kind of crazy that fans of Bjork and M.I.A. can appreciate. And Snoop Dogg returns the favor after Robyn spiced up a remix of "Sexual Eruption" by trading "Curriculum Vitae"-style brags on "U Should Know Better." It's equal parts awesome and ridiculous - from Robyn claiming to tell the Vatican what's up on race, sexism and celibacy in one line, to mispronouncing French words on purpose. The closing track is an acoustic version of a gorgeous song called "Indestructible" that I have no doubt will be a show stopper on Part 3.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Robyn Keeps "Dancing On My Own" To Sad, Gay Disco Anthems
Swedish pop goddess Robyn is releasing her three-part Body Talk album series this year, and the first video debuted this week. "Dancing On My Own" is a seriously hot track, inspired by "sad, gay disco anthems" (per the press release.) And this very much fits the bill!
Some 80s throwback instrumentation, but mostly very fresh and similar to Robyn's earlier emotronic singles "With Every Heartbeat" and "Be Mine!" down to the slightly stalkery lyrics. Example: "I'm in the corner/watching you kiss her" If it wasn't so sad, it'd be a little frightening.
Watch:
Friday, May 22, 2009
VIDEO: Royksopp & Robyn & "The Girl & The Robot," Oh My!
Robyn is one fabulous girl, y'all. Even my baby sister had to get her hair did like the Swedish pop star for my other sister's wedding. Girlfriend needs to drop a new disc, but in the mean time I've been all about her collabo with Norwegian production duo Royksopp, "The Girl & The Robot."
Now there's a video for the fly track, a pretty literal translation of the title. Robyn loves her robot boyfriend, but he spends way too much time in his greenhouse. She keeps falling asleep in front of the TV, in a fabulous cocktail dress and lovely eye makeup while waiting for her man to call. Haven't we all been there? Watch:
Now there's a video for the fly track, a pretty literal translation of the title. Robyn loves her robot boyfriend, but he spends way too much time in his greenhouse. She keeps falling asleep in front of the TV, in a fabulous cocktail dress and lovely eye makeup while waiting for her man to call. Haven't we all been there? Watch:
Monday, March 9, 2009
Oh Snap! Robyn's Hooking Up With Röyksopp For New Single
Y'all know I love Robyn, right? I've only posted about her at least once a month since I started blogging, because she is awesome in every way, shape and form. She joins her Scandinavian pop sisterhood, Lykke Li, Anneli Drecker and Karin Dreijer in providing vocals for Norwegian duo Röyksopp's new disc Junior out at the month.
The second single from that album arrived at Stereogum today, "The Girl And The Robot" features Robyn and what sounds like a Human League sample. The dark and dense electronic sounds almost bury Little Miss Powerhouse's vocals, but the dance floor beat accents the obsessive lyrics perfectly. Listen:
The second single from that album arrived at Stereogum today, "The Girl And The Robot" features Robyn and what sounds like a Human League sample. The dark and dense electronic sounds almost bury Little Miss Powerhouse's vocals, but the dance floor beat accents the obsessive lyrics perfectly. Listen:
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Robyn And Snoop Dogg Team Up Again!
You may recall that the Fyre Department Remix of Snoop Dogg's "Sexual Eruption" featured my favorite Swede, pop mistress Robyn. The fabulously dirty song also ranked number on one of my mid-year lists, and it currently hovers in the top five for my year end list. Now the dee-oh-double-jizzle returns the favor, appearing on a remix of Robyn's "Bum Like You" There is really no musical difference between either mix, and Snoop only pops by for a "It's big Snoopy Dogg, Robyn what it do" at the intro and a thirty second rap halfway through. If that is enough to get Robyn some US airplay, I'd be thrilled. (Although, I'd rather that miracle happen to "Be Mine!" or "Every Heartbeat") His rap does fit lyrically, both Robyn and Snoop bemoan the way a broke loser can capture your heart. I think a dose of TLC's "No Scrubs" is in order!
Download/preview the track here.
Download/preview the track here.
Monday, November 3, 2008
The Best Pop Songs Pop Radio Isn't Playing
Oh, to be a radio programmer in the age of Clear Channel and Cumulus Media! You have to find exactly seven songs to rotate, and BAM you have your job done for the week. It's really easy, since all you have to do is check and see which songs feature Akon, Lil' Wayne and/or T-Pain and then you have one spot left to fill with an American Idol winner or runner up (or Daughtry, in more rock-receptive areas.) Then tell your DJs to intersperse "Where My Girls At?" and "In Da Club" in between those seven songs and you have Harrisburg's Hottest Hits: Hot 92 or Here's What Hot: 99.3 Kiss FM. Yay!
OK, I'm sure it's more difficult than that. I mean, there probably dozens of songs going for adds (yeah, I speak the lingo!) every week and you have to choose which ones you will have your DJs play. Some songs are crap, and those songs get played more. I'm kidding, I'm kidding! I'm trying to be sensitive to the fact that real people are making this music, then choosing to play this music.
But when I turn on the radio, I'd like to be able to choose something in between the somewhat hookless stuff on NPR or XPN and the literally ten songs that get played on the big pop stations. Would it kill them to play "Dangerous" only five times a day, and use the other spots left empty to play "Untouched" by the Veronicas, "With Every Heartbeat" by Robyn, "I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You" by The Black Kids, "L.E.S. Artistes" by Santogold, "Black And Gold" by Sam Sparro, "Into The Nightlife" by Cyndi Lauper, "U Want Me 2" by Sarah McLachlan and "Light On" by David Cook?
OK, so that list may lean to the gay-friendlier side of things, but the fact I could come up with 6 recent singles off the top of my head that I've never heard on the radio, and two that got very limited airplay, is sad. I'm serious, there are literally dozens of really catchy, interesting pop singles like that. I'm not sure I'd still like any of these songs if they played them 12 times a day (no exaggeration) but why do we need to play any song that frequently? It's why so many people prefer blogs to radio to find new music: there is no new music on the radio. Just the same tired track played over and over until I run for cover.
OK, I'm sure it's more difficult than that. I mean, there probably dozens of songs going for adds (yeah, I speak the lingo!) every week and you have to choose which ones you will have your DJs play. Some songs are crap, and those songs get played more. I'm kidding, I'm kidding! I'm trying to be sensitive to the fact that real people are making this music, then choosing to play this music.
But when I turn on the radio, I'd like to be able to choose something in between the somewhat hookless stuff on NPR or XPN and the literally ten songs that get played on the big pop stations. Would it kill them to play "Dangerous" only five times a day, and use the other spots left empty to play "Untouched" by the Veronicas, "With Every Heartbeat" by Robyn, "I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You" by The Black Kids, "L.E.S. Artistes" by Santogold, "Black And Gold" by Sam Sparro, "Into The Nightlife" by Cyndi Lauper, "U Want Me 2" by Sarah McLachlan and "Light On" by David Cook?
OK, so that list may lean to the gay-friendlier side of things, but the fact I could come up with 6 recent singles off the top of my head that I've never heard on the radio, and two that got very limited airplay, is sad. I'm serious, there are literally dozens of really catchy, interesting pop singles like that. I'm not sure I'd still like any of these songs if they played them 12 times a day (no exaggeration) but why do we need to play any song that frequently? It's why so many people prefer blogs to radio to find new music: there is no new music on the radio. Just the same tired track played over and over until I run for cover.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Robyn Spits Paint And Game. Can She Get Any Cooler?
One of the many brilliant pop tracks on Robyn's self-titled album (released here in the states over the summer) is a cover of the Heineken-shilling Teddybear's "Cobrastyle." A short video clip was produced, with Robyn playing strip poker with blogger Perez Hilton and some friends, but it paled when compared to the rediculous highs of the "Handle Me" and "Every Heartbeat" videos.
I was quite thrilled to see a full-length video released, especially when it opened with Robyn spitting blue paint in backwards slow-motion. Then we get paint squirted on her and the band, as well as pigment powders splashed (ala Regina Spektor's "Fidelity" vid) and lots more paint-fight action. It's a great video, and I would hope it might finally garner Robyn some airplay on the VH1. But alas, it seems America is not ready for the Swedish pop star's return! Mainstream radio, it's your loss.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Robyn Covers Nenah Cherry, Salt-N-Pepa at Melt! Festival
From Yahoo! Deutchland come a video of my very favorite pop diva this year, Robyn, from the Melt! Festival last month in Germany. She covers fellow Swede Neneh Cherry's "Buffalo Stance," Salt-N-Pepa's "Push It" and does both one of Snoop's verses and her own chorus from the Fyre Department Remix of "Sexual Eruption" before launching into her own UK hits "Konichiwa Bitches" and the brillant "Be Mine!" I love that she shows her love of old-school hip-hop, even if her latest disc goes in a more electro-pop sound. I don't understand why she is not getting more attention here in the States, even my pop-hating sister loves her! Do I have to tell you again? BUY IT! Watch:
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Those Are The Videos Of The Year?
It's true, I am an old person trapped in an almost 25-year-old body. I will freely admit this. But please tell me I'm not the only one disappointed in the 2008 Video Of The Year nominees! Check out the noms here.
First off, the Pussycat Dolls had some hot videos off their first disc, I'm not gonna lie. I loved "Buttons" and "Beep." But "When I Grow Up" is the dumbest "song" I've heard in ages, and the video does absolutely nothing for me. They dance on top of cars (just like in "Wait a Minute") and on scaffolding (just like Paula Abdul) and on the sidewalk (just like "Singing In The Rain") The shot of them dancing in front of a lit-up "PUSSYCAT DOLLS" features some decent dancing, but I've seen better in a Danity Kane video. And the Day-Glo outfits? That pink jacket worn by Nicole should be reason enough to bar this video from being seen by people who are not legally blind.
The Jonas Brothers are an unstoppable force, I get it. I heard "Burning Up" played twice at a gay bar this weekend, which makes me think the DJ was a Boy Scout going for his pedophile badge. But the video treatment that's nominated is NOT the one they are playing on MTV. I've seen the JoBros way too many times on the MTV and all they do is play by the pool. But the version on the Nominees page is cut between the poolside pickups and some goofy fake action movie scenes. It's cute, but it should hardly stand next to "Video Of The Year" winners like "Nothing Compares 2 U" or "Work It"
I'm in love with "Forever" by Chris Brown. The video is pretty meh, but I can't hate on the amazing song. Never gonna win, though. And Britney's surprisingly self-aware look at the tabloids that she toys with and engages in a torrid love/hate affair with in "Piece Of Me" would be my pick for "Video Of The Year" if it weren't for the stunning Chic-meets-White Stripes fun of The Ting Tings' "Shut Up And Let Me Go." That song is catchy, quirky, new and worthy of being nominated. The video is cool, too...
So who should have been nominated? First big snub is Leona Lewis, who may not have had a showstopper of a video in "Bleeding Love" but that song is so freaking major, I would have nominated it anyway. And Eryka Badu's "Honey" was one of the coolest things I've seen all year, with the recreation of classic album covers like Let It Be. Duffy got all emotional and real with her second single "Warwick Avenue" which deserves some love. Who can forget Robyn? Any one of her videos are miles ahead of the competition. Mariah Carey got silly with 30 Rock's Kenneth The Page in "Touch My Body"'s nerd-centric fantasy gags. And for giving even gay guy's wood with her lipstick lesbian ways, Katy Perry deserves a nod for "I Kissed A Girl."
First off, the Pussycat Dolls had some hot videos off their first disc, I'm not gonna lie. I loved "Buttons" and "Beep." But "When I Grow Up" is the dumbest "song" I've heard in ages, and the video does absolutely nothing for me. They dance on top of cars (just like in "Wait a Minute") and on scaffolding (just like Paula Abdul) and on the sidewalk (just like "Singing In The Rain") The shot of them dancing in front of a lit-up "PUSSYCAT DOLLS" features some decent dancing, but I've seen better in a Danity Kane video. And the Day-Glo outfits? That pink jacket worn by Nicole should be reason enough to bar this video from being seen by people who are not legally blind.
The Jonas Brothers are an unstoppable force, I get it. I heard "Burning Up" played twice at a gay bar this weekend, which makes me think the DJ was a Boy Scout going for his pedophile badge. But the video treatment that's nominated is NOT the one they are playing on MTV. I've seen the JoBros way too many times on the MTV and all they do is play by the pool. But the version on the Nominees page is cut between the poolside pickups and some goofy fake action movie scenes. It's cute, but it should hardly stand next to "Video Of The Year" winners like "Nothing Compares 2 U" or "Work It"
I'm in love with "Forever" by Chris Brown. The video is pretty meh, but I can't hate on the amazing song. Never gonna win, though. And Britney's surprisingly self-aware look at the tabloids that she toys with and engages in a torrid love/hate affair with in "Piece Of Me" would be my pick for "Video Of The Year" if it weren't for the stunning Chic-meets-White Stripes fun of The Ting Tings' "Shut Up And Let Me Go." That song is catchy, quirky, new and worthy of being nominated. The video is cool, too...
So who should have been nominated? First big snub is Leona Lewis, who may not have had a showstopper of a video in "Bleeding Love" but that song is so freaking major, I would have nominated it anyway. And Eryka Badu's "Honey" was one of the coolest things I've seen all year, with the recreation of classic album covers like Let It Be. Duffy got all emotional and real with her second single "Warwick Avenue" which deserves some love. Who can forget Robyn? Any one of her videos are miles ahead of the competition. Mariah Carey got silly with 30 Rock's Kenneth The Page in "Touch My Body"'s nerd-centric fantasy gags. And for giving even gay guy's wood with her lipstick lesbian ways, Katy Perry deserves a nod for "I Kissed A Girl."
Monday, August 11, 2008
Five Songs On Shuffle, Volume 22
This is the twenty-second installments of my weekly blog entry series "5 Songs On Shuffle." I’ll put my iTunes on shuffle and blog about the first five songs that play.
"The Only Promise That Remains" - Reba McIntire/Justin Timberlake Reba Duets
This gorgeous Celtic love ballad, co-written by Mr Sexy back himself, is a departure for both artists. Justin is known for his hip-hop flavored pop hits, and Reba for her giant soaring ballads and catchy country-pop with a life lesson at the center. This is a simple, beautiful love song with Justin's soft falsetto harmonizing, but never overpowering, Reba's always-stunning vocals and a gentle guitar and string back-ground.
"LDN" - Lily Allen Alright, Still
Lily is riding her bike through my dream town, and sees what I would miss. Is that fancy looking couple actually a pimp/ho combo? Did nice young man just bash that old ladies over the head? And is that sunny Calypso music playing underneath a snarky lyric? Indeed.
"That Time" - Regina Spektor Begin to Hope
Regina reminiscences about the fun times: when she only ate tangerines for a month, when she would only read Shakespeare, when she and I would kiss anywhere except the mouth, when we broke and bummed cigs. Oh, and remember that time when I OD'd, for the second time? Yeah, fun times!
"Anytime You Like" - Robyn Robyn
Over a strange barely-there beat, Robyn waits to be told those three little words. You can tell her anytime you like...
"Marry Me" - St. Vincent Marry Me
Starting out like a lost Broadway tune, it gets quirky; and fast! She wants do what "married people do... what Mary and Joseph did, without the kid" over a strange drum and horn and piano beat.
"The Only Promise That Remains" - Reba McIntire/Justin Timberlake Reba Duets
This gorgeous Celtic love ballad, co-written by Mr Sexy back himself, is a departure for both artists. Justin is known for his hip-hop flavored pop hits, and Reba for her giant soaring ballads and catchy country-pop with a life lesson at the center. This is a simple, beautiful love song with Justin's soft falsetto harmonizing, but never overpowering, Reba's always-stunning vocals and a gentle guitar and string back-ground.
"LDN" - Lily Allen Alright, Still
Lily is riding her bike through my dream town, and sees what I would miss. Is that fancy looking couple actually a pimp/ho combo? Did nice young man just bash that old ladies over the head? And is that sunny Calypso music playing underneath a snarky lyric? Indeed.
"That Time" - Regina Spektor Begin to Hope
Regina reminiscences about the fun times: when she only ate tangerines for a month, when she would only read Shakespeare, when she and I would kiss anywhere except the mouth, when we broke and bummed cigs. Oh, and remember that time when I OD'd, for the second time? Yeah, fun times!
"Anytime You Like" - Robyn Robyn
Over a strange barely-there beat, Robyn waits to be told those three little words. You can tell her anytime you like...
"Marry Me" - St. Vincent Marry Me
Starting out like a lost Broadway tune, it gets quirky; and fast! She wants do what "married people do... what Mary and Joseph did, without the kid" over a strange drum and horn and piano beat.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Five Songs On Shuffle, Volume 20
This is the nineteenth installments of my weekly blog entry series "5 Songs On Shuffle." I’ll put my iTunes on shuffle and blog about the first five songs that play.
"Boys (Co-ed Remix)" - Britney Spears feat. Pharrell Williams Greatest Hits: My Perogitive
"Boys/Sometimes a girl just needs one" Brit-Brit coos over a hot Neptunes beat (the same one as ex-boyfriend Justin Timberlake's "Senorita") before her love for a certain ghetto fabulous one took her over the edge into insanity. Remember when Britney was the pop princess with perfectly sexy/sweet hooks? Yeah, we like that one better.
"Crazy on You" - Heart The Essential Heart
The acoustic guitar intro that leads up to Ann Wilson going crazy on you is sleek Cali rock at it's finest. But once Ann hits the chorus, you know she done went and sang it! Not as intense as "Alone" or insane as "Barracuda" but there is nothing wrong with any Heart track, in my opinion.
"Walk Away" - Kelly Clarkson Breakaway
From the burned copy my sister gave me, on which she wrote "Kelly Clarkson - Break Way" comes the song with the best video from that modern classic pop album. We've all done it, rocked out to some Kelly in the car, while at work or in the public restroom. Kelly, I don't think I can walk away.
"Lovestoned/I Think She Know" - Justin Timberlake Future Sex/Love Sounds
The last two and a half minutes or so of this track, the "I Think She Knows Interlude" is a perfect pop song in and of itself. The soft falsetto of Justin's voice riding on a swirl of strings, beat and guitar strumming is perfect. I could listen to just that part all day.
"Sexual Eruption (Fyre Department Remix)" - Snoop Dogg feat. Robyn Sexual Eruption [Fyre Department Remix] - Single
The hottest remix this year, hands down. The beat is not self-conciously retro anymore, Robyn brings her Scadinavian cool to a new naughty chorus, and a perfect dirty-pop track is born.
"Boys (Co-ed Remix)" - Britney Spears feat. Pharrell Williams Greatest Hits: My Perogitive
"Boys/Sometimes a girl just needs one" Brit-Brit coos over a hot Neptunes beat (the same one as ex-boyfriend Justin Timberlake's "Senorita") before her love for a certain ghetto fabulous one took her over the edge into insanity. Remember when Britney was the pop princess with perfectly sexy/sweet hooks? Yeah, we like that one better.
"Crazy on You" - Heart The Essential Heart
The acoustic guitar intro that leads up to Ann Wilson going crazy on you is sleek Cali rock at it's finest. But once Ann hits the chorus, you know she done went and sang it! Not as intense as "Alone" or insane as "Barracuda" but there is nothing wrong with any Heart track, in my opinion.
"Walk Away" - Kelly Clarkson Breakaway
From the burned copy my sister gave me, on which she wrote "Kelly Clarkson - Break Way" comes the song with the best video from that modern classic pop album. We've all done it, rocked out to some Kelly in the car, while at work or in the public restroom. Kelly, I don't think I can walk away.
"Lovestoned/I Think She Know" - Justin Timberlake Future Sex/Love Sounds
The last two and a half minutes or so of this track, the "I Think She Knows Interlude" is a perfect pop song in and of itself. The soft falsetto of Justin's voice riding on a swirl of strings, beat and guitar strumming is perfect. I could listen to just that part all day.
"Sexual Eruption (Fyre Department Remix)" - Snoop Dogg feat. Robyn Sexual Eruption [Fyre Department Remix] - Single
The hottest remix this year, hands down. The beat is not self-conciously retro anymore, Robyn brings her Scadinavian cool to a new naughty chorus, and a perfect dirty-pop track is born.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
We're Halfway There... (Part Two)
OK, here are the top 15 non-pop-hits of 2008 (so far...) By non-hits, I mean they may have received some airplay, but they don't come close to the mostly top ten hits I blogged about on the last list. And most I never even heard on the radio, I had to learn about these amazing songs via the Internet. Honest to blog!
Paulbo's Top 15 Non-Hits of 2006.5
15. Petra Haden - "An American Crime (End Credits Theme)" (non-charting)
Composer Ari Alan Lazer creates a brilliant "instrumental" piece to cover the end credits of the true crime film An American Crime. The instruments in question are Petra Haden's vocals, all A Capella and layered to create on of the scariest sounding themes I've heard, before breaking into an even creepier piano line. I've never seen the film, but if the music is this terrifying, who knows what the images will do to my brain.
14. Madonna - "Devil Wouldn't Recognize You" (non-charting)
From the opening bars to Timbaland's scattershot beat to the creepy pianos, this modern ballad (ala "Cry Me A River") is as haunting as possible. It wasn't easy to pick just one track off Hard Candy for this list, but besides the single "4 Minutes" this one of the very best.
13. CSS - "Music Is My Hot Hot Sex" (#63, Hot 100 Chart)
The thumping beat, the grinding guitar riff, the provocative lyrics, the obvious iPod commercial. Why this isn't a much bigger hit, I don't know. Besides perfectly describing my life (music is not only my hot, hot sex, it's my boyfriend; my imaginary friend; from all the shit, the one I gotta buy is music) it's just an great dance-rock/art-rock track.
12. Duffy - "Mercy" (#27 Hot 100 Chart)
If the organs and the strange drum track at the beginning of the song aren't enough to convince you that Duffy is part of the revived Northern Soul scene in the British Isles, then the throwback Dusty/Aretha smoky vocals should. Calling Duffy an Amy Winehouse without the crack pipe is overkill, for sure. But while her songs don't have the torrid strength of "Back To Black" between this minor US hit and the gorgeous ballad "Warwick Avenue" there is definite possibilities in the blond Welsh's future.
11. Robyn - "Be Mine! (Ballad Version)" (non-charting mix)
As if the original version of this song, from the brilliant album Robyn, wasn't heartbreaking enough, along comes this piano ballad version from The Rakamonie EP. The torch-fueled lyrics reveal further anguish through the broken vocals of the Swedish sensation. Either version should be on your iPod.
10. Katy Perry - "UR So Gay" (#1 Hot Dance Singles Sales)
In this biting indictment of a emo boyfriend who wears H&M scarves, MySpaces all day and is "so indie-rock it's almost an art" Katy Perry sashays her way into the hearts of fans of Lily Allen's breed of bratty pop. The kicker, while her boyfriend is so gay, he doesn't even like penis!
9. Sam Sparro - "Black & Gold" (non-charting in US, UK #2)
This electro-funk track from gay techno star Sam Sparro deserves some spin on his home turf, not just on Euro charts. The chorus is catchy as hell and a little nonsensical, but the synth beat is where it's at!
8. Santogold - "L.E.S. Artistes" (US B-side, UK #27)
Former A&R rep Santi White is a friend of one of my favorites, M.I.A., and appeared on one of my top 14 albums of last year, Mark Ronson's Version. So little wonder I'm in love with her future/retro-fetishizing album, and the B-side to lead single "Creator" which is also quite good. You can dance to it, sing along to the chorus "I can say I hope it will be worth what I give up" and laugh along with Santi at modern hipsters, those "fast talkers."
7. Doe Deere - "One Touch" (non-charting)
Brooklyn-based disco diva Doe Deere has been burning up the pop blogs, topping Electroqueer's chart for four weeks. Her music sounds like Blondie and Madonna fighting over a Depeche Mode cover band gig, or like every '80s hit ever. Plus, she has a free download of this stunning dance track on her MySpace, click on the link above to get there. Free music that's good? I'm so there...
6. Robyn feat. Kleerup - "With Every Heartbeat" (UK #1, Hot Singles Sales, #4)
It never fails to make my hair stand on end, this gorgeous techno ballad; emo-tronic if you will. The strings swirl around Robyn's voice and the beat underscores the sadness of the lyrics. When the string quartet gives way to the keyboard tones and Robyn bursts forth with "And it hurts with every heartbeat..." on the bridge I just want to cry. Seriously, I know I say this every week or so, you NEED to buy the Robyn album. It's finally available in all the record shops here in the states, not just as an import.
5. Estelle feat. Kanye West - "American Boy" (#35)
It's weird, but Estelle sounds like what Corrine Bailey Rae would sound like as a hip-hop artist. The electric guitar is used more as beat than melody, which is intriguing, and the line "Don't like his baggy jeans/but I'ma like what's underneath 'em" makes me chuckle. Sure Estelle, I'll be your American boy...
4. Amy Winehouse - "F*** Me Pumps" (UK #65, US non-charting)
From the US release of Amy's 2003 UK debut, Frank, comes this sassy R&B track about gold-digging hos who "walk in the bar/dressed like a star/rockin' those F-me pumps" but never find love. While her debut doesn't have the same number of insanely well-written songs on it as Back to Black this song ranks as high as "Rehab" in attitude and hooks.
3. Kerli - "Love Is Dead" (non-charting)
Kerli is from Estonia, which I understand is not as mud-and-swine filled as Dilbert would have us believe. Her stunning video for "Love Is Dead" is what first drew me to her, in it she ages backwards from an ancient crone to a young blond with lebre and tongue piercings. But the song, oh the song! Kerli's emotional meditation on the end if a relationship melds so perfectly with the huge drum loop and strings before bursting into the chorus of "Love is dead/love is gone/love don't live here anymore" sung by a creepy chorus. It sounds like she should be soundtracking Tim Burton films, which is a total compliment. The Kerli EP is available now on iTunes.
2. Goldfrapp - "A&E" (Hot Dance Singles Sales #1)
Wikipedia describes this as a folk-tronica song, and that fits as well any description. It's techno, but much more organic sounding. But the lyrics are what have me hooked. Intensely descriptive of a trip to the Accident & Emergency ward (hence the title) after a post breakup suicide attempt. At least that's what I get out of "I'm in a backless gown/on a pastel ward that's shining/think I want you still/but there may be pills at work"
1. Snoop Dogg feat. Robyn - "Sexual Eruption (Fyre Department Remix)" (non-charting mix)
All the best parts of the original are here: the absolutely filthy lyrics, Snoop's vocoded singing, the rap. But add in a new chorus by Robyn (making her third entry on my chart, cause she rocks so fucking hard!) plus a greatly improved beat (dropping the flutes, adding the funk guitars) and you have the best remix of the year. "Sexual eruption/cuddle up little pup/sexual eruption/mama's gonna sex you up" is so hard core, and miles ahead of Lil' Kim's remix.
Paulbo's Top 15 Non-Hits of 2006.5
15. Petra Haden - "An American Crime (End Credits Theme)" (non-charting)
Composer Ari Alan Lazer creates a brilliant "instrumental" piece to cover the end credits of the true crime film An American Crime. The instruments in question are Petra Haden's vocals, all A Capella and layered to create on of the scariest sounding themes I've heard, before breaking into an even creepier piano line. I've never seen the film, but if the music is this terrifying, who knows what the images will do to my brain.
14. Madonna - "Devil Wouldn't Recognize You" (non-charting)
From the opening bars to Timbaland's scattershot beat to the creepy pianos, this modern ballad (ala "Cry Me A River") is as haunting as possible. It wasn't easy to pick just one track off Hard Candy for this list, but besides the single "4 Minutes" this one of the very best.
13. CSS - "Music Is My Hot Hot Sex" (#63, Hot 100 Chart)
The thumping beat, the grinding guitar riff, the provocative lyrics, the obvious iPod commercial. Why this isn't a much bigger hit, I don't know. Besides perfectly describing my life (music is not only my hot, hot sex, it's my boyfriend; my imaginary friend; from all the shit, the one I gotta buy is music) it's just an great dance-rock/art-rock track.
12. Duffy - "Mercy" (#27 Hot 100 Chart)
If the organs and the strange drum track at the beginning of the song aren't enough to convince you that Duffy is part of the revived Northern Soul scene in the British Isles, then the throwback Dusty/Aretha smoky vocals should. Calling Duffy an Amy Winehouse without the crack pipe is overkill, for sure. But while her songs don't have the torrid strength of "Back To Black" between this minor US hit and the gorgeous ballad "Warwick Avenue" there is definite possibilities in the blond Welsh's future.
11. Robyn - "Be Mine! (Ballad Version)" (non-charting mix)
As if the original version of this song, from the brilliant album Robyn, wasn't heartbreaking enough, along comes this piano ballad version from The Rakamonie EP. The torch-fueled lyrics reveal further anguish through the broken vocals of the Swedish sensation. Either version should be on your iPod.
10. Katy Perry - "UR So Gay" (#1 Hot Dance Singles Sales)
In this biting indictment of a emo boyfriend who wears H&M scarves, MySpaces all day and is "so indie-rock it's almost an art" Katy Perry sashays her way into the hearts of fans of Lily Allen's breed of bratty pop. The kicker, while her boyfriend is so gay, he doesn't even like penis!
9. Sam Sparro - "Black & Gold" (non-charting in US, UK #2)
This electro-funk track from gay techno star Sam Sparro deserves some spin on his home turf, not just on Euro charts. The chorus is catchy as hell and a little nonsensical, but the synth beat is where it's at!
8. Santogold - "L.E.S. Artistes" (US B-side, UK #27)
Former A&R rep Santi White is a friend of one of my favorites, M.I.A., and appeared on one of my top 14 albums of last year, Mark Ronson's Version. So little wonder I'm in love with her future/retro-fetishizing album, and the B-side to lead single "Creator" which is also quite good. You can dance to it, sing along to the chorus "I can say I hope it will be worth what I give up" and laugh along with Santi at modern hipsters, those "fast talkers."
7. Doe Deere - "One Touch" (non-charting)
Brooklyn-based disco diva Doe Deere has been burning up the pop blogs, topping Electroqueer's chart for four weeks. Her music sounds like Blondie and Madonna fighting over a Depeche Mode cover band gig, or like every '80s hit ever. Plus, she has a free download of this stunning dance track on her MySpace, click on the link above to get there. Free music that's good? I'm so there...
6. Robyn feat. Kleerup - "With Every Heartbeat" (UK #1, Hot Singles Sales, #4)
It never fails to make my hair stand on end, this gorgeous techno ballad; emo-tronic if you will. The strings swirl around Robyn's voice and the beat underscores the sadness of the lyrics. When the string quartet gives way to the keyboard tones and Robyn bursts forth with "And it hurts with every heartbeat..." on the bridge I just want to cry. Seriously, I know I say this every week or so, you NEED to buy the Robyn album. It's finally available in all the record shops here in the states, not just as an import.
5. Estelle feat. Kanye West - "American Boy" (#35)
It's weird, but Estelle sounds like what Corrine Bailey Rae would sound like as a hip-hop artist. The electric guitar is used more as beat than melody, which is intriguing, and the line "Don't like his baggy jeans/but I'ma like what's underneath 'em" makes me chuckle. Sure Estelle, I'll be your American boy...
4. Amy Winehouse - "F*** Me Pumps" (UK #65, US non-charting)
From the US release of Amy's 2003 UK debut, Frank, comes this sassy R&B track about gold-digging hos who "walk in the bar/dressed like a star/rockin' those F-me pumps" but never find love. While her debut doesn't have the same number of insanely well-written songs on it as Back to Black this song ranks as high as "Rehab" in attitude and hooks.
3. Kerli - "Love Is Dead" (non-charting)
Kerli is from Estonia, which I understand is not as mud-and-swine filled as Dilbert would have us believe. Her stunning video for "Love Is Dead" is what first drew me to her, in it she ages backwards from an ancient crone to a young blond with lebre and tongue piercings. But the song, oh the song! Kerli's emotional meditation on the end if a relationship melds so perfectly with the huge drum loop and strings before bursting into the chorus of "Love is dead/love is gone/love don't live here anymore" sung by a creepy chorus. It sounds like she should be soundtracking Tim Burton films, which is a total compliment. The Kerli EP is available now on iTunes.
2. Goldfrapp - "A&E" (Hot Dance Singles Sales #1)
Wikipedia describes this as a folk-tronica song, and that fits as well any description. It's techno, but much more organic sounding. But the lyrics are what have me hooked. Intensely descriptive of a trip to the Accident & Emergency ward (hence the title) after a post breakup suicide attempt. At least that's what I get out of "I'm in a backless gown/on a pastel ward that's shining/think I want you still/but there may be pills at work"
1. Snoop Dogg feat. Robyn - "Sexual Eruption (Fyre Department Remix)" (non-charting mix)
All the best parts of the original are here: the absolutely filthy lyrics, Snoop's vocoded singing, the rap. But add in a new chorus by Robyn (making her third entry on my chart, cause she rocks so fucking hard!) plus a greatly improved beat (dropping the flutes, adding the funk guitars) and you have the best remix of the year. "Sexual eruption/cuddle up little pup/sexual eruption/mama's gonna sex you up" is so hard core, and miles ahead of Lil' Kim's remix.
Monday, June 16, 2008
5 10 Songs on Shuffle - Volume 14/15
This is the fourteenth & fifteenth installments of my weekly blog entry series "5 Songs On Shuffle." I’ll put my iTunes on shuffle and blog about the first five songs that play. Since I didn't post last week I'm doing a double post this week, called Five Ten Songs On Shuffle.
"A Deeper Love" - Aretha Franklin Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit Soundtrack
This is actually my favorite movie of all time, mostly due to Lauryn Hill's amazing version of "His Eye Is On The Sparrow" and the stupid/funny opening Vegas number. This song is a dance track which was produced by '90s superproducers C & C Music Factory. It's fun to dance to, but nothing more than that.
"She's Not Me" - Madonna Hard Candy
This is the longest track of the new Madonna album, produced by the Neptunes and featuring funky basswork from Prince protege Wendy Melvoin. It's a funktified disco track about a girl who tries inmitate Madge while stealing her man. Perfect for a rollerdisco!
"A Foggy Day" - Sandi Patty Together
I borrowed this album from the library when I was 19, and learned the glories of the Gershwin brothers masterful creations. Gospel superstar's Sandi Patty and Kathy Trocolli performed standards on the disc, Patty did mostly compsitions by the Gershwin's and Trocolli did songs performed by Judy Garland as well as a few duets and original jazz songs. While my favorite Ira Gershwin lyrics are from "The Man I Love" I do enjoy this one to. It's makes me want to move to London even more than I usually do.
"Smell Like Teen Spirit" - Nirvana Nevermind
One of the most iconic tracks from the most iconic album by the iconic grunge band. I may be a pop fan through and through, but who can deny the power and emotion behind the vocals, despite the fact the lyrics make no sense, and the title was an insult about smelling like chick deoderant. The guitars and drums and vocals combine on a serious pop record dressed in grungy flannel. Seriously, if Kelly Rowland loves it, why can't I?
"No" - Shakira Fijicion Oral Vol. One
The English language Volume Two may have yeilded the monster hit "Hips Don't Lie" but on this disc one finds pop tracks worth hearing like the original Spanish version of the minor hit "Don't Bother" and this gorgous acoustic ballad. I have no idea what Shakira is saying on the follow up single to "La Tortura" but her vocals convey enough emotion and power to let you know something painful is happening. I really love this song.
"Must Have Done Something Right" - Relient K Five Score And Seven Years Ago
The first single from the latest studio album by the Ohio natives, it's not one of my favorites from the album. It's a little cheesy, but with a catchy Sound Of Music-quoting chorus. The rest of the album is better.
"Immigrant Song" - Led Zeppelin Early Days: Best Of Led Zeppelin Vol. 1
I'm not much of a classic rock fan, but the opening riff is so memorable you almost have to have this song on your iPod. So I do.
"Stuntin' Like A Black Rock" - Birdman & Lil' Wayne vs Black Rock The Hood Internet Mixtape Vol. 1
Black Rock provide a funky garage-pop backing to Birdman and Lil' Wayne's boastful raps that put me in mind of Nancy Sintatra as a thug. Don't ask, my mind goes places it shouldn't when the music is bumping.
"Crash And Burn Girl" - Robyn Robyn
"I should write a song about you/and all the shit you do" is the opening line of this track off Robyn's stellar pop record, current front-runner for my album of the year. So Robyn does write a song about a girl who fucks up her love life over and over again, but not without admitting: "Everytime you mess it up like that I see myself in you"
"Gimme More" - Britney Spears Blackout
It's Britney, bitch! The comeback single from the pop-diva-cum-tabloid-baby zigs with quirky synth lines, zags with vocoded vocals and a beat to cause gaysted club boys and girls to lose their shirt and grind on the nearest pole. You want more? I've give you more!
"A Deeper Love" - Aretha Franklin Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit Soundtrack
This is actually my favorite movie of all time, mostly due to Lauryn Hill's amazing version of "His Eye Is On The Sparrow" and the stupid/funny opening Vegas number. This song is a dance track which was produced by '90s superproducers C & C Music Factory. It's fun to dance to, but nothing more than that.
"She's Not Me" - Madonna Hard Candy
This is the longest track of the new Madonna album, produced by the Neptunes and featuring funky basswork from Prince protege Wendy Melvoin. It's a funktified disco track about a girl who tries inmitate Madge while stealing her man. Perfect for a rollerdisco!
"A Foggy Day" - Sandi Patty Together
I borrowed this album from the library when I was 19, and learned the glories of the Gershwin brothers masterful creations. Gospel superstar's Sandi Patty and Kathy Trocolli performed standards on the disc, Patty did mostly compsitions by the Gershwin's and Trocolli did songs performed by Judy Garland as well as a few duets and original jazz songs. While my favorite Ira Gershwin lyrics are from "The Man I Love" I do enjoy this one to. It's makes me want to move to London even more than I usually do.
"Smell Like Teen Spirit" - Nirvana Nevermind
One of the most iconic tracks from the most iconic album by the iconic grunge band. I may be a pop fan through and through, but who can deny the power and emotion behind the vocals, despite the fact the lyrics make no sense, and the title was an insult about smelling like chick deoderant. The guitars and drums and vocals combine on a serious pop record dressed in grungy flannel. Seriously, if Kelly Rowland loves it, why can't I?
"No" - Shakira Fijicion Oral Vol. One
The English language Volume Two may have yeilded the monster hit "Hips Don't Lie" but on this disc one finds pop tracks worth hearing like the original Spanish version of the minor hit "Don't Bother" and this gorgous acoustic ballad. I have no idea what Shakira is saying on the follow up single to "La Tortura" but her vocals convey enough emotion and power to let you know something painful is happening. I really love this song.
"Must Have Done Something Right" - Relient K Five Score And Seven Years Ago
The first single from the latest studio album by the Ohio natives, it's not one of my favorites from the album. It's a little cheesy, but with a catchy Sound Of Music-quoting chorus. The rest of the album is better.
"Immigrant Song" - Led Zeppelin Early Days: Best Of Led Zeppelin Vol. 1
I'm not much of a classic rock fan, but the opening riff is so memorable you almost have to have this song on your iPod. So I do.
"Stuntin' Like A Black Rock" - Birdman & Lil' Wayne vs Black Rock The Hood Internet Mixtape Vol. 1
Black Rock provide a funky garage-pop backing to Birdman and Lil' Wayne's boastful raps that put me in mind of Nancy Sintatra as a thug. Don't ask, my mind goes places it shouldn't when the music is bumping.
"Crash And Burn Girl" - Robyn Robyn
"I should write a song about you/and all the shit you do" is the opening line of this track off Robyn's stellar pop record, current front-runner for my album of the year. So Robyn does write a song about a girl who fucks up her love life over and over again, but not without admitting: "Everytime you mess it up like that I see myself in you"
"Gimme More" - Britney Spears Blackout
It's Britney, bitch! The comeback single from the pop-diva-cum-tabloid-baby zigs with quirky synth lines, zags with vocoded vocals and a beat to cause gaysted club boys and girls to lose their shirt and grind on the nearest pole. You want more? I've give you more!
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Robyn Plays Strip Poker With Perez Hilton
Perez Hilton may be on everybody's hate list, and his painted up paparazzi photos are a bit tiresome. But he has championed some of my favorite artists, like Robyn, M.I.A., Mika and Amy Winehouse. In Robyn's new video clip for "Cobrastyle" he takes it all off. Well maybe not all... Strip poker with a card shark Robyn sounds like a hot time to me!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Review: Robyn - "Robyn"
Here is the US, Swedish pop diva Robyn dropped her self-titled album on Tuesday. Over in Sweden, it's been out for over two years, the UK got a re-release last year and US pop-people in the know got their hands on the import as soon as blogs like Sterogum and Perez Hilton started hyping her. I know I did, I've been listening for four months now, even posting a review on my MySpace blog in January. Here's what I wrote then:
Swedish pop star Robyn was in contract limbo when she recorded the first song for what would become "Robyn." So she bought out her contract and made what is the best independent pop record I've ever heard. From the opening track, on which Swingfly lists her many accomplishments (including out-super freaking Rick James) you can just feel the pop music exuding from every note. It's pop music like only Swedes can make: crazy, catchy, beat-heavy, full of strings and synths and insane lyrics that don't make sense half the time but feel so real. She covers the Teddybears ("Cobrastyle"), makes disco magic with Kleerup ("With Every Heartbeat"), comforts a broken robot ("Robotboy") gets her heart broken ("Be Mine!") and breaks yours ("Eclipse") all while making you want to dance and sing along. It's possibly the most perfect pop album since ABBA disbanded.
Now that you can get the album in any record store, you should go buy it. It gets better with each listen, like a modern day "Thriller" or "ABBA Gold" just hot pop track after stunning pop gem after insanely catchy pop single. With Madonna's new album dropping the same day, I know poor Robyn will get overshadowed, but if you love Madonna, you really should try this disc. Track for track, the best album to drop this month, better than Mariah, Madonna and Leona Lewis. Buy it already! Or at least, check out the crazy videos below:
Swedish pop star Robyn was in contract limbo when she recorded the first song for what would become "Robyn." So she bought out her contract and made what is the best independent pop record I've ever heard. From the opening track, on which Swingfly lists her many accomplishments (including out-super freaking Rick James) you can just feel the pop music exuding from every note. It's pop music like only Swedes can make: crazy, catchy, beat-heavy, full of strings and synths and insane lyrics that don't make sense half the time but feel so real. She covers the Teddybears ("Cobrastyle"), makes disco magic with Kleerup ("With Every Heartbeat"), comforts a broken robot ("Robotboy") gets her heart broken ("Be Mine!") and breaks yours ("Eclipse") all while making you want to dance and sing along. It's possibly the most perfect pop album since ABBA disbanded.
Now that you can get the album in any record store, you should go buy it. It gets better with each listen, like a modern day "Thriller" or "ABBA Gold" just hot pop track after stunning pop gem after insanely catchy pop single. With Madonna's new album dropping the same day, I know poor Robyn will get overshadowed, but if you love Madonna, you really should try this disc. Track for track, the best album to drop this month, better than Mariah, Madonna and Leona Lewis. Buy it already! Or at least, check out the crazy videos below:
Monday, April 21, 2008
Who Is That Girl?
Electroqueer just posted eight videos of songs that ask the question that no seems to be able to answer: Who's that girl? Madonna and the Eurythmics had big eighties hits with the query, and while Eve is sure she's the one, Robyn is blowing up the UK charts right now while pondering the same, plus a shitty album track from Hilary Duff and some Brit-pop musings on the big Q with no A.
I must say, when I heard that "Who's That Girl" was Robyn's next single, I went straight to the Madonna/Eurythmics place, but Kudos to Raj at EQ for taking it to next level. Apologies to Marlo Thomas, but that girl is Angelina Jolie, I'm pretty sure.
I must say, when I heard that "Who's That Girl" was Robyn's next single, I went straight to the Madonna/Eurythmics place, but Kudos to Raj at EQ for taking it to next level. Apologies to Marlo Thomas, but that girl is Angelina Jolie, I'm pretty sure.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Five Songs On Shuffle Vol 6
Here is the sixth installment of my weekly blog entry series "5 Songs On Shuffle." I’ll put my iTunes on shuffle and blog about the first five songs that play.
"Weapon of Choice" - Fatboy Slim Fired Up 2
I do love some Fatboy, and this song is no exception. Techno that sounds like it's played with real instruments, with a heavily distorted vocal that you can barely understand before launching into a nonsense chorus of "you can go with this/or you can go with that/or you can go with us" repeated makes it kind of fun to dance to. Like Christopher Walken did in the memorable video.
"100 Years" - Five For Fighting I Hurt Myself Today (Walmart Mixtape)
Yeah, I'm a sap. I love this song, I love the message of "live for today." But to keep this from getting too sugary, it's time to drop one of my pet peeves into the mix. I hate when "bands" are actually just one person. Stage names are fine, but when that name is makes it sound like a five-piece band it irks me. I know it's totally irrational, but there you go. See also: A Fine Frenzy, Nine Inch Nails.
"That's That Whirlwind - Snoop Dogg feat. R Kelly vs Archetecture in Helsinki" - The Hood Internet Mixtape Volume One
How many Hood Internet mashups are on my iPod anyway? This is not one of my favorites, but it does have a goofy charm.
"Should Have Known" - Robyn Robyn
One of the few tracks on Robyn's amazing self-titled album (that will finally see the light of day in the US this month) that I don't love with the passion of a thousand suns. It's a pretty good pop/R&B hybrid, but after the disco brilliance of "Every Heartbeat" the hip-hop kiss-offs of "Konichiwa Bitches" and "Handle Me" and quiet heartbreak of "Eclipse" it was bound to pale.
"Big Girl (You Are Beautiful)" - Mika Life In Cartoon Motion
This is the song that made every critic say "Oh Mika's just like Freddie Mercury!" I do like it, it's a poppy hug around the ladies who aren't afraid to lunch. Fun!
"Weapon of Choice" - Fatboy Slim Fired Up 2
I do love some Fatboy, and this song is no exception. Techno that sounds like it's played with real instruments, with a heavily distorted vocal that you can barely understand before launching into a nonsense chorus of "you can go with this/or you can go with that/or you can go with us" repeated makes it kind of fun to dance to. Like Christopher Walken did in the memorable video.
"100 Years" - Five For Fighting I Hurt Myself Today (Walmart Mixtape)
Yeah, I'm a sap. I love this song, I love the message of "live for today." But to keep this from getting too sugary, it's time to drop one of my pet peeves into the mix. I hate when "bands" are actually just one person. Stage names are fine, but when that name is makes it sound like a five-piece band it irks me. I know it's totally irrational, but there you go. See also: A Fine Frenzy, Nine Inch Nails.
"That's That Whirlwind - Snoop Dogg feat. R Kelly vs Archetecture in Helsinki" - The Hood Internet Mixtape Volume One
How many Hood Internet mashups are on my iPod anyway? This is not one of my favorites, but it does have a goofy charm.
"Should Have Known" - Robyn Robyn
One of the few tracks on Robyn's amazing self-titled album (that will finally see the light of day in the US this month) that I don't love with the passion of a thousand suns. It's a pretty good pop/R&B hybrid, but after the disco brilliance of "Every Heartbeat" the hip-hop kiss-offs of "Konichiwa Bitches" and "Handle Me" and quiet heartbreak of "Eclipse" it was bound to pale.
"Big Girl (You Are Beautiful)" - Mika Life In Cartoon Motion
This is the song that made every critic say "Oh Mika's just like Freddie Mercury!" I do like it, it's a poppy hug around the ladies who aren't afraid to lunch. Fun!
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