Music & Me.

Joss Stone Live @ CitiBank Hall, São Paulo.

2015-03-11T23:00:00.000-03:00

Joss Stone - Some kind of wonderful.

I have been wanting to see this lady for a long time. From the minute I heard that soulful voice singing a line from the Soul Brothers Six classic hit, Some Kind Of Wonderful, I knew that Joss Stone was just that, some kind of wonderful.

More than a decade after her world wide smash hit, The Soul Sessions was released and now living on another a continent, I finally get to see this soul singer in all her glory at São Paulo's chic Citi Bank Hall.

The statuesque beauty took to the stage and opened with a mash up up of some of her greatest hits like You Had Me and Super Duper Love whilst draping herself in a Brazilian flag that was thrown on the stage, from the get go Ms.Stone had the crowd eating out of her hand.

Joss Stone Live in São Paulo, Brazil.

With a gentleness in her approach to her audience and the many stories that that filled the night, it was quite astounding to watch this earthly delight launch into vocal assaults that even the Queen of Soul herself, Ms. Aretha Franklin would be in awe of. One such number that epitomises this was her take on the classic, I Put A Spell On You. Never one to shy away from a good photo/video opportunity, it was moments like this, an all to common occurrence at this concert, that had me in awe and floored with sheer amazement at the vocal force and depth of soul that was echoing through the theatre. This was my modern day Janis Joplin moment, Joss Stone had very clearly become my "Janis".

Quite a bit of new music was debuted and most seem to have a strong reggae feel to it, a genre that seems to sit and work so well with Ms.Stone. The voice that has been a weekly ritual of listening for me, was even more impeccable in real life and as I mentioned to a friend after the show, life changing. Dramatic maybe, but there are only a handful of artists that I can honestly say have had that power over me, Ms.Stone is now gladly added to that list.

This lady is the living embodiment of soul and is a true ambassador for reminding the world that music is one of the greatest things that unites us all, differences and similarities alike. No cultural smudging here, just pure respect, talent and love for a gift that she so effortlessly and graciously shares with the world.

For more information on Joss Stone:

http://www.jossstone.com

Madonna and her Rebel Heart.

2015-03-05T17:26:00.000-03:00

Madonna - Always a Rebel Heart.

It's here, the album of 2015. The Queen of Pop has finally released her much anticipated, often leaked and super award worthy and (in my opinion) well overdue, Rebel Heart. This unapologetic bitch (her words not mine, so calm the fuck down) has delivered yet again and with 25 songs on the super deluxe version, you, me and the rest of the world can't and won't go wrong with this. Fact.

So by now everyone has heard the six tracks that were "leaked" just before Christmas and seen that sensational performance at the 57th Grammy Awards back in February, both highlighting the lead single, the uplifting and in my opinion, reminiscent of Like A Prayer, Living For Love. Oh yeah, and there was that "caped crusader" moment at The Brit Awards too. Publicity is publicity after all, and never more important than when an album is about to drop or you happen to simply be Madonna.

Madonna and "that" fall @ The Brit Awards 2015. The recovery was more than spectacular.

In true pop fashion, the album opens with the aforementioned lead single Living For Love and really sets the tone for this album. Ghosttown, an "end of the world" inspired song delivers, along with Joan of Arc, which is a very raw track showing a vulnerability that we don't so often associate with Madonna. Holy Water provided me with that "sex meets religion" topic that Madonna is so good at doing and even borrows from Vogue, how could anyone not love this track?

There are some fillers on this album, inevitable when you are well and truly in the double digit track area on an album, but songs like Iconic, Devil Pray, Messiah and Auto tune (with an auto tuned baby crying interjected with a rattle which was kind of creepy to me) just didn't do anything for me. In saying that, there are some stand out tracks that I'm obsessed with, the albums name sake, Rebel Heart, the exquisitely raw Beautiful Scars, Queen, Graffiti Heart and Addicted.

This album sees Madonna take a more vulnerable approach to her music, sure, she is always raw and cutting edge with whatever it is that she is currently trying to convey, but I think age has truly made her a little less arrogant and a whole lot more accessible (coupled with social media), not an easy feat when you wear the title of Queen of Pop. Madonna is never going to shy away from controversy, whether intended or not, she likes to get people talking and she's done it again. This album is nothing short of brilliant and provides many tracks that crossover genres, this "crossover" of genres was cemented by working with artists like Nicki Minaj (reprising her MDNA role), Avicii, Diplo, Kanye West and Alicia Keys, all ingredients that helped keep me entertained for the entire album, which is no easy feat.

Age defying and re defining, always enticing and never shying away from the buttons she pushes, Madonna doesn't let that thing we call time suffocate or inhibit her, something that only a true rebel heart knows how to achieve.

For more information on Madonna:

http://www.madonna.com

Living for Madonna Live - Rebel Heart Tour 2015

2015-03-02T19:42:00.002-03:00

Look who's coming to a stadium near you...

Ok, so I just died. Madonna is going on tour. Sure, it plays into every, single stereo type, but I truly don't give a fuck.

I'm living for Madonna live and am hoping she brings the Rebel Heart Tour to Brazil and Australia, would love to opportunity to finally review her live (my memory is a little shoddy from my virgin encounter with her and the Girlie Show back in 1993 in my hometown of Adelaide).

For more information on Madonna and the Rebel Heart Tour:

http://www.madonna.com/news/title/madonnas-35-city-rebel-heart-tour-announced

Róisín Murphy - Gone Fishing with Hairless Toys.

2015-03-01T08:00:00.000-03:00

Hairless Toys - Róisín Murphy.

I can't begin to tell you how damn excited I am by the news that House Musics first lady, Ms. Róisín Murphy, will release her long over due follow up album to 2007's underground smash, Overpowered, interestingly titled, Hairless Toys.

The albums first release, Gone Fishing, draws its inspiration from the cult classic, Paris Is Burning, something Róisín said she felt she "had to run this far from home" after watching the documentary. The new album is ultimately a homage to all the misfits and the recognition of House Music's origins in Gay, black culture. I for one am wetting myself (not literally) with anticipation, excitement and the potential to burn up the dance floor with this impending release. Bring on May the 11th!

Have a listen to Gone Fishing below:

https://soundcloud.com/miss-roisin-murphy/gone-fishing

For more information on Róisín Murphy:

http://www.roisinmurphyofficial.com

Lay me down, give me pride.

2015-02-27T23:24:00.000-03:00

Sometimes I think we forget the impact people can have on us, society and even the way we think. This video and its lyrics are so powerful to me for many different reasons and really made me think about something that many take for granted in 2015, equality.

I never honestly thought that I would see a day that someone who is openly gay would be making music that speaks to not just the gay community, but to anyone with ears and who loves and appreciates music.

To have this man present and making music with such open and honest pride, brings me to tears, that the ability to tell a story of love is not restricted to just a certain type of people, that it's finally starting to be truly inclusive and looked at as nothing more than just that, love. That for every punch I received, name I was called or the knife that was at my throat purely because I was gay, is now all worth it. Every negative or violent situation of hatred that was, has been and will be hurled at me for most of my life has, and will continue to bring me here, to a place that allows me to see someone that gets me and a story that I can relate too. A story that I have spent most of my life wondering if there ever truly will be a "happily ever after" free of prejudice. I have faith that there will be, one day.

My gratitude for those that remain open, free and honest, reminds me that I am eternally indebted to you and I too, must do always do the same.

Love, no hidden agenda, just love.

For more information on Sam Smith:

www.samsmithworld.com

Madonna - Relevant then & NOW.

2015-02-19T00:57:00.002-02:00

Will YOU look this good at 56? Madonna does.

I like Madonna. Am I a "super fan"? Probably not, but I grew up with her music and appreciate just what it is she brings to the table, so to speak. What I am though, is someone who is getting really bored with the pathetic attempts at so called "journalism" when it comes to Madonna, her age and her latest offering, Rebel Heart.

The album is good. Actually, in my opinion its really f*#%king good. She is looking sensational and after her recent number at the Grammy Awards, she is still so on point that it leaves many half her age dead in their tracks. FACT.

The opinion on whether someone is still "relevant" or not is so subjective and in the case of someone with a legendary status attached to their names, is well, desperate journalism clutching at those "straws" they were criticising said artist over, to create some salacious crap that ends up coming off as, well, salacious crap coupled with desperate journalism. GO FIGURE.

Madonna has paved the way for many artists that have since followed in her footsteps, despite what may or may not be between their legs, Madonna made sexuality something we were forced to talk about and ultimately discuss. Guess what? That was 30 years ago and yep, she is still doing it today,this time pushing those boundaries again as women of a certain age aren't supposed to be sexual or deemed beautiful in the mainstream media and she is saying "Well take a look at this".

There is nothing new about what Madonna is doing here, and like her or loathe her, one thing can't be denied, we are ALL talking about her. Again, take the recent Grammy's for example, how many younger pop stars will we see in the future doing what she is doing now? I am guessing not many. Why? Because Madonna has something that most people struggle to attain in life, drive, ambition and an end goal to change the world in some way or another. It is these very things that have pushed her for 30 years in the music industry to create, inspire and achieve, and will continue to push her for another 30 years or more.

Relevant? Are you reading this? If so, then I am guessing you already know the answer.

For more information on Madonna:

www.madonna.com

Carnival 2015

2015-02-14T09:30:00.000-02:00

Carnival - Costumes & Colour abound

I just realised that I have not really contributed a heavily influenced or inspired post on Brazilian music, which is wrong on so many levels, mainly because a) I live in Brazil and b) It doesn't get more musical than Brazil. So, with the impending Carnival making its way toward me again, I thought what better time to look at music in Brazil and one of its biggest exports, Carnival and Samba, two things that essentially go hand in hand.

Last year I arrived into Brazil, Rio in fact, just as the Carnival celebrations were kicking off. It was electric to say the least. Everywhere I turned there was music, people in the streets and food and smiles engulfed my every move in the beautiful city that lives by the sea. Tourists were in abundance and not just from North America and other Latin American countries, but internal tourism, people wanting to experience a different version of carnival from the one they are used to in their home towns and cities, and this year I am no different.

This year I will spend Carnival and its entire 5 day run in São Paulo, the business capital of Brazil and the largest city in not only Brazil, but the southern hemisphere. To understand Carnival we need to understand one of Brazil's favourite past times and something that takes its pride of place every year at this time through out the country, Samba.

Samba is one of the most popular styles of dance and music in today's world and is almost always associated with Brazil. It is a part of the Brazilian identity that in 2005, the Bahian "Samba de Roda" (where Samba is danced in a circle) was listed as part of the UNESCO heritage of humanity. This particular style of Samba is the main root of Samba carioca, belonging to Rio de Janeiro and having its roots in West Africa, primarily Angola and The Congo.

Although the Carioca Samba is the best known, the origins of samba were firmly rooted in both Bahia and São Paulo before Rio de Janeiro. It was in the 19th century that blacks, mestizas and former soldiers began to populate Rio in areas we now call slums. It was here that the Tias Baianas used their homes to allow the birth of this beautiful form of dance and music.

Believe it or not, Samba had a great influence in the racial mixture that Brazil is known for today. The white elite of the past were said to be mesmerised by the hypnotic style of dance and encouraged to join in. Needless to say, dance being one of the more physical and seductive languages of love, cast its spell and not only was this beautiful form of music created, but it also helped redefine a new cultural and racial landscape in Brazil, much like the music itself.

So, as I embark on the next five or so days of festivities engulfing me with all things Carnival, Samba and drinking, I wish that everyone gets the opportunity to visit Brazil and experience the various forms of Carnival, its music, dances and of course its beautiful people.

Boa Carnaval!

Madonna: The Word Police Can F*#$ Off.

2015-02-14T08:00:00.000-02:00

Madonna - 56 & still full of tricks (Photo courtesy of V Magazine)

A great article from Billboard magazine with the Queen of Pop, Madonna.

I think that the last paragraph really sums up exactly what I think Madonna has done and continues to do, push boundaries, even well into her 50's, especially with women being allowed to express their sexuality. Many don't realise or refuse to see what she is doing, and think of this as purely attention seeking or a desperate grab for that last bit of fame, but in the decades to come they will see that she was the one who broke down the age barrier for what is considered the norm for women and owning their sexuality, much like she did some 30 years ago.

When you look back on your career, what part do you think you played in changing taboos about growing up female in America?

I don't think there was one part. I think it's an ongoing activity in my life. I'm continuing to open doors for the women behind me. I don't know many women who have had a successful career in pop music as long as I've had. And I waited until I was older to have children. I raised children and wasn't married. And I continue to express myself -- my sexuality -- in my 50s, even though that's also considered taboo, and I get a lot of shit for it. But in 20 years, Miley Cyrus probably won't get shit for it. Then, it'll be like, "Oh, yeah, that's nothing new."

To read the full article, click here:

http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/6472671/madonna-interview-rebel-heart-50-shades-of-grey-pope-word-police

Dianne Reeves: A Beautiful Life, it truly is.

2015-02-13T10:13:00.000-02:00

Dianne Reeves: A Beautiful Life, makes it Grammy No.5

I said that there may be more and I knew that I had to include this video of legendary Jazz singer/songwriter, Ms. Dianne Reeves on receipt of her 5th Grammy. Like Ms. Angelique Kidjo, I have been blessed to be in the presence of both of these amazing women, individually and together, and it gives me no greater joy than to see them recognised for their commitment to music and their crafts via the Grammy Awards.

Ms. Dianne Reeves is someone that had me awestruck from the very first time I heard her voice some years ago. Continuing into 2015 and that awe is still as strong, as is the quality in the music that she delivers to us, in this case, via her Grammy Award winning latest album, A Beautiful Life.

Dianne Reeves: Grammy No.5

As she mentions in this video, she was looking for a "wonderful neutral ground" for her and some of Jazz's younger artists to collaborate on and what better way than to pay homage to the artists and music that she grew up listening to and what obviously has influenced her and the artists she collaborated with on this album. This album truly is, as Ms. Reeves so eloquently put it: "A Beautiful Life Experience".

For more information on Dianne Reeves:

http://diannereeves.com

Angelique Kidjo: This Is For The Women Of Africa.

2015-02-12T10:08:00.000-02:00

Angelique Kidjo: A True Role Model For Everyone.

I don't usually post videos from other sites as I would much rather prefer to have been there and caught it with my own eye, but I am going to make a rare exception (maybe more than one) and share this video from CBS with two time Grammy winner Angelique Kidjo explaining where her inspiration came from and why this recent Grammy award is for the women of Africa.

Ms. Angelique Kidjo

It's this paragraph really resonates with me, something her Father told her as a young girl and something the world could do with learning from and remembering when raising children: "Talent has no colour, has no language, has no nationality. Use your brain, its your ultimate weapon you can challenge any human being on the planet as long as you can talk their language. And don't get into the craziness of the racist people because they can draw you into hate." Perfectly said by someone that I absolutely adore and consider not just a role model for myself, but for the world.

For more information on Angelique Kidjo:

http://www.kidjo.com

Spice Girls! New Music!? Sort of...

2015-02-11T12:35:00.000-02:00

The Spice Girls - They really did Spice up our lives.

I have just unearthed four new tracks (sort of) via Soundcloud from the Spice Girls. Uh huh, that's right, every ones favourite girl group has some undiscovered tracks that have now made their way here, via the Internet.

So, let me clarify, they aren't "new" as such, but previously recorded tracks (except for Right Back At Ya which was on the album, this version is the "pop version") that weren't used I am presuming for their last album, Forever. These tracks embody everything that the Spice Girls were and will always be, pure pop music mixed with girl power and that 90's vibe.

Take a listen below:

If It's Lovin On Your Mind:

https://soundcloud.com/spicegirls-girlpower/spice-girls-if-its-lovin-on-your-mind

A Day In Your Life:

https://soundcloud.com/spicegirls-girlpower/spice-girls-a-day-in-your-life

Pain Proof:

https://soundcloud.com/spicegirls-girlpower/spice-girls-pain-proof

Right Back At Ya:

https://soundcloud.com/spicegirls-girlpower/spice-girls-right-back-at-ya-pop-version

For more information on the Spice Girls:

http://www.thespicegirls.com/#

Remembering Whitney: Three Years Today.

2015-02-11T00:49:00.002-02:00

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters, compared to what lies within us."~R. W. Emmerson

It's amazing how time flies, one day you are here and the next, well we just don't know where the next will take us. Three years ago today, the world lost one of its greatest singers, a woman with "the voice" as Time magazine put it, a woman with a voice that could make you get up and dance and also bring you tears with its sheer power, emotion and soul. That woman was, is and will always be Ms. Whitney Houston.

I don't think that anyone could forget that fateful night that the world learnt of Ms. Houston's passing, and on the eve of the Grammy Awards, a place that Whitney had been recognised, nominated and awarded in, many times over her illustrious career. A career that saw her setting countless records and setting the standard for the singers and entertainers the world over. Like every human though, there were dark times, times that unfortunately have continued since her passing with the recent news of her only daughter, Bobbi Kristina reportedly on life support. Heartbreaking on every single level.

From what I saw of Whitney through out her career and through my eyes as a child, teenager and then adult, is a woman who fought her demons the best she could and through it all, somehow managed to never lose that "glow" and always gift us with the greatest gift of all, her voice.

Although she is not here to continue to witness the enduring legacy that she has left, we certainly are able to keep her music,movies and memory alive by enjoying the 11 or so albums covering movie soundtracks, Holiday cheer and everything else in between, by allowing our ears and souls to dance in the melodious music that seemed to be created so effortlessly by Ms. Houston and that legendary voice.

Gone but never forgotten.

For more information on Whitney Houston:

http://live.whitneyhouston.com

And the winner is... The 57th Grammy Awards.

2015-02-09T10:00:00.000-02:00

The Grammy Effect - 57 times and counting.

So, the Grammy Awards happened last night. The 57th one in fact. Being a music lover of all the different forms it so deliciously comes in, and someone who likes to see an artist perform in all their narcissistic glory whilst being televised around the globe, I decided to re watch the Grammys from 2014 and see what was different, good and not so good. There was and IS a big difference. Massive in fact and that is a very good thing.

Last years host, LL Cool J, himself a Grammy winner, brought a nice flavour to the night devoted to music and those who create it, something that he did well again this year. The performances were big with artists like Beyoncé, Lorde, Katy Perry, Robin Thicke, Chicago, Pink and Carole King to name a few. All great performances, but with people like Madonna showcasing their new music, it just doesn't get juicier than this. Sure, Madonna, Katy and Queen Bey all performed last year, but this year was different.

AC/DC opened the show which seemed to sit especially well with Lady Gaga, who was rocking out to their performance. Sam Smith scooped the award for Best New Artist and Jessie J and Tom Jones took to the stage to honour the song writing team of Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil with a performance of the legendary hit, You've Lost That Loving Feeling, all this within the first 30 mins of the show.

My man idol, Pharrell Williams took out Best Pop Solo Performance for Happy, completely and utterly deserved in my opinion. Country star, Miranda Lambert seemed to stir everyone up with her Little Red Wagon number, the lady has more swagger and sex appeal than most. Sam Smith picked up another Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Album (In The Lonely Hour).

More awards were given and more performances were delivered. Kanye took to the stage but it was the following act that I guess most (including me) were waiting to see, Madonna. Miley Cyrus and Nicki Minaj introduced her as a "Bad ass, trouble making, International star" and boy did she deliver on that intro. Singing her latest hit, Living For Love, Madonna who at 56 years old showed exactly why it is she is labelled as the Queen Of Pop, working that stage like someone half her age in a heavily Spanish inspired theme coupled with devilish dancers and a gospel choir, Madonna delivered as only she could and reinforced why she owns that crown.

Madonna shows us just why she is the Queen Of Pop.

Kanye hit the stage again with Sir Paul McCartney and Rihanna, Beyoncé took out another Grammy for Drunk In Love, Ed Sheeran took to the stage with John Mayer, Herbie Hancock, Quest Love and Adam Blackstone, Adam Levine and Gwen Stefani gave an amazing version of the Maroon 5 hit My Heart Is Open, but it was former Eurythmics front woman, Annie Lennox that blew the roof off. Invited on stage by Hozier who took us to church, Annie gave us her rendition of I Put A Spell On You and not to sound cheesy, boy did she do just that. I have to say that the most solid performances this evening were by women who have been around for sometime now and truly know what the words "performance" and "artistry" truly mean.

Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett danced Cheek To Cheek, Sam Smith and Mary J Blige asked each other to Stay With Me and Sia performed with her back to us while music video regular and pocket dancer, Maddie and comedian Kristen Wiig danced it out to Chandelier. We had been taken to church previously by Hozier and Annie Lennox, but it was the "Reverend" Beyoncé Carter that gave us the sermon with a stirring rendition of the classic hymn Take My Hand Lord. The night was rounded out with more wins by Sam Smith and the odd other person for good measure and another beautiful and powerful performance by John Legend and Common with Glory, ensured there was a deeper element to the night, a message of social justice.

The 57th Grammy Awards were full of showmanship, quality music and some great performances. Add these things to legendary artists taking to the stage and you have a night that will go down in history as being one of its best. Madonna, Annie Lennox, Rihanna, Sir Paul McCartney, Sia, Beyoncé, Mary J Blige, Sam Smith and so many others gave us musical memories that we will be talking about for quite some time to come. Prince graced us with his orange ensemble presence and reminded us that albums still matter, just like books and black lives. That man is pure sex, even dressed in orange. Oh yeah, LL Cool J needs to host the Grammys every year, lick those lips and the winner is... Nuff said.

For more information on The Grammy Awards:

http://www.grammy.com

Defected Presents House Masters: Masters At Work

2015-02-02T10:00:00.000-02:00

Masters At Work: Always.

It's all in the title and this title says it all; House Masters: Masters At Work. This DJ duo comprising Little Louie Vega and Kenny Dope Gonzalez, has been at the top of their game for more than two decades now delivering some of the most iconic house tunes ever created. No mean feat especially considering that I (and pretty much everyone else) put them in the same category as the late Godfather of House himself, the legendary Frankie Knuckles.

This album is one of classics, something that the "Masters" seem to do so effortlessly and yet never sound repetitive or over used. With 40 tracks, many that have been firm favourites on many a dance floor across the globe over the years, it would be easy to think that there can or would be lulls in this - there aren't. From the opening track of Thank you by gospel and R'n'B singer Bebe Winans and his velvety voice, to the very last track of the African inspired Zabalaza by B.O.P, there is something on this album to get anyone and everyone moving, and each track is given that special MAW golden touch.

There are some standouts on this album for me, beginning with the solid usage of longtime resident MAW diva and all round vocal goddess, India. Her crisp and powerful vocals can be heard on tracks such as Backfired, Runaway and early 90's club anthems, I Can't Get No Sleep, When You Touch Me and the magical Love & Happiness. There are other house divas too; Jody Watley and her Off The Hook get a superb re work as does Ce Ce Peniston and Crazy Love. An album devoted to all things House wouldn't be so if it didn't have at least one Kathy Brown track, and we get one, Can't Play Around. There is even a re working of the Diana Ross classic, The Boss, done to perfection by The Braxtons.

With more than four hours of solid house music, probably closer to five actually, Kenny Dope Gonzalez and Little Louie Vega have made certain that this an album of quality reworks, that will leave even the most hardened of critics smiling and moving along to the scrumptious tracks that have been carefully chosen for this compilation. In saying that though, if you are a die hard House Music fan then you will probably have most, if not all of these tracks, there are however a few surprise remixes that I didn't have in my collection and for this, I am glad I got the album.

For more information on Masters At Work:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Masters-At-Work/116860801752942

Dawn Richard - Blackheart

2015-01-30T20:06:00.000-02:00

Dawn Richard - Blackheart

I was introduced to Dawn Richard by one of my dearest friends and maybe her greatest fan that she could ever experience (I'm indebted to you Adrian). Golden heart was the name of her debut album and like all things "gold", it was precious to say the least. I was hooked, line and sinker.

Then came this little gem of a new release, Blackheart. This album was released two years to the date of her debut and captures everything that I loved about Ms. Richard on that very first listen, and then some. Actually, a ton of some.

From the opening intro of Noir to the final song, the electronic instrumental outro and album namesake, Blackheart, Dawn doesn't fail to deliver some serious lyrical content, coupled with a much more personal element than her first offering. The album is made up mainly of electronic beats infused with R'n'B and a splash of dance, this trilogy of elements highlighted superbly on the second track, Calypso.

Next on the list is the albums lead single, Blow, which to me has a very R'n'B club Beyoncé kind of feel. One of my favourites on the album just happens to be the next track, Billie Jean. With its deliciously phat beats and gentle, almost angelic chorus, couple that with some serious dubs and I just couldn't stop moving in my seat. Very sexy.

The album doesn't break, like a book with all its chapters, each song is a chapter in itself that still finds the ability to tell its own story. Fluidity is one word that comes to mind when listening to this album. With 14 songs on this album, it would be easy to think that there would be some misses in the "like" department", but I can honestly say that there isn't one that I don't like. Really.

The longest track on the album, Adderall/Sold (Outerlude) is a slightly futuristic track that took me on a 7+ minute journey that I never thought possible, primarily because I like my songs to be around the 4 minute mark unless you are Michael Jackson. With the self empowering Warriors, I got my dose of feeling strong like a lion, and as the album draws to a close, Castles, Phoenix (with Aundrea Fimbres) and the beautiful ballad The Deep, reminded me on why I love this album - quality music in all its lyrical and majestic beauty.

The albums namesake and outro, Blackheart, brings the album to a close with a whimsical electro, multi layered track that seems so befitting for this wondrous journey into Ms. Richards musical mind that she so kindly and thankfully, shared with us. With the over abundance of artists these days and everyone wanting their 15 minutes, I was hesitant in listening to yet another gorgeous woman belting something, anything out - especially one that had been on yet another reality TV show. I can safely say that I am able to eat my words and hesitation, Dawn Richards is the real deal and Blackheart cements her status as a legitimate addition to the world of music as we know it.

For more information on Dawn Richards:

http://dawnrichardblog.com/dawnshome.html

Flashback Friday? Anything but where Ms. Martha Wash is concerned.

2015-01-29T18:19:00.000-02:00

Martha Wash always delivers Something Good.

Yesterday I read a "review" (and I use this term loosely now) that was posted via a website in regards to Martha Wash's latest offering, Something Good. The album has a much different feel to a lot of her previous work, but it is still a fantastic album. What's got me pissed is not the difference in opinion that we are all entitled too, but the lack of research or knowledge the "reviewer" so blatantly left out where Ms.Wash and her 30+ year career is concerned. You would think that when reviewing a "break away" album of sorts from one of musics most enduring and iconic voices, research is not only tantamount to your profession, but also imperative in providing a good review.

The review opens with the negative right from the get go, "Most likely, none of you know who Martha Wash is." Nice way to capture your audience, maybe that was just his point, not to capture. It only seemed to go downhill from there. Firstly, the reviewer seemed to have little to no idea himself of just who he was writing about, which brings me to the question: Not heard of the word "research"? Secondly, the tone of the review had this almost "I'm too cool for this" vibe about it which just didn't sit right with me.

Just in case you haven't heard of that word (research), I am going to give you a little history on, as it was so effortlessly put, "the one hit wonder" or as most other people refer to her, Ms. Martha Wash. Some have even called her the Queen of Clubland and this so called "one hit wonder" has also been nominated for 2 Grammy Awards, but I digress.

Ms. Wash has been singing since 1978, coming up to 40 years. She began her career as a backing vocalist for the late Disco legend Sylvester, and later went on to form Two Tons O' Fun (with the late Izora Amstead ) , the duo later renaming themselves the now legendary, Weather Girls. The reviewer is correct that 30 years ago they had a world wide smash hit with "It's Raining Men", but the hits didn't stop there. They also had three other No.2 hits on the US Dance Chart; Earth Can Be Just Like Heaven, I Got The Feeling and Just Us.

After the group parted ways in 1985, Ms. Wash went onto have a solo career, lending her vocals to tracks like; Everybody Everybody (No.8 with Blackbox), Gonna Make You Sweat (No.1 with C+C Music Factory), Strike It Up (No.8 with Blackbox), Carry On (No.1 Billboard Dance), Give It To You (No.1 Billboard Dance), Runaround (No.10 Billboard Dance) and we aren't even at the end of the 90's yet, nor are we at the end of her hits.

As you can see, Ms. Wash is anything but a "one hit wonder" and to call her this, is not only poor journalism, but disrespects the legacy that she has created and worked so tirelessly for and is still continuing. In fact, those aforementioned songs with Blackbox and C+C Music factory were the catalyst for a shake up within the music industry where recognition and royalties were concerned. She successfully sued RCA (Blackbox's label) and also Clivilliés and Cole and their recording label at the time, Sony. She was credited appropriately where her voice was used and was also compensated for unpaid royalties and received a recording contract from RCA.

Her recent release, Something Good, is a definite breakaway from her clubland days and what we are all so used to, and that's cool. Every now and again we all need to switch things up, shake off the past and try something new for the future, its called growing. It's totally fine to not like something and every one's opinion is valid, but coming across as slightly condescending and with a rather strong lack of knowledge on your subject, especially one that has been around for nearly four decades is nothing more than shameful to say the least and warrants little merit where the title "review" is concerned.

Still think of this lady as a "one hit wonder"? Anything but.

For more information on Martha Wash:

http://www.marthawash.com

MNEK - Em En Ee Kay

2015-01-27T09:23:00.000-02:00

Mnek. This guy is blowing my mind in every way possible.

I stumbled across this British singer/songwriter via my other current musical obsession, Karen Harding, with whom he wrote her debut single, Say Something. The writing doesn't begin or end there, he has been nominated for a Grammy and his writing credits include penning hits for artists like; Duke Dumont, Gorgon City, Rudimental and A*M*E to name a few. Oh yeah, he did the backing vocals for Madonna's latest single, Living For Love. Pretty impressive as he is all of 20 years old.

With a debut album slated for release sometime this year, he has indulged us with a few single releases and this one, Wrote A Song About You, is just heavenly. Have a listen below:

Mnek - Wrote A Song About You

As I made mention in my previous post on Karen Harding, this is yet another artist I will be listening to and watching closely over the coming year. Britain really is continuing to turn out some amazing artists and if these two are anything to go by, we are starting 2015 off in the best way musically possible.

For more information on Mnek:

http://www.mnekofficial.com

New Music: Karen Harding - Say Something

2015-01-26T09:30:00.000-02:00

Karen Harding - Say Something

It's official! I am obsessed with Karen Harding and her debut single Say Something. This delicious track with its heavy house influences is just what I needed as my summer anthem (Southern hemisphere summer that is).

After appearances on the BBC's Eurovision: Your Country Needs You and The X Factor, it wasn't hard to see that this British native was destined for things much greater than reality TV shows. With an exquisite voice and looks to match, Karen Harding is one girl that I am going to be watching and listening to very closely in the coming months.

Have a listen to her debut single, Say Something, below:

Karen Harding - Say Something

For more information on Karen Harding:

https://www.facebook.com/KarenHarding?fref=ts

And pick up the debut single, Say Something and all its delicious remixes here:

https://itunes.apple.com/au/album/say-something-single/id909395507

Born on this day: Etta James

2015-01-25T12:55:00.000-02:00

Ms. Etta James - The bridge between R 'n' B & Rock & Roll.

On January the 20th 2012, just five days before her 74th birthday, the world lost one of its greatest singers/songwriters, the "matriarch of R 'n' B", Ms. Etta James.

My first introduction to Ms. James was as a child. From the moment I heard the opening bar of At Last and those violins, I was up and waltzing around the living room for my Grandmother, something that she seemed to totally revel in. Other than the drama and build up the violins provided and the closed eyes and slight smirk on my Grandmothers face, there was little build up. Within seconds the power of Ms. James voice and delivery of the song itself was something my virgin ears were not used to, but totally mesmerised by. I was hooked.

Needless to say as the years past my love and affection for this lady grew. I wanted to know everything about her, and what I found was a story of a hell of a lot of heart ache, abuse both physically and with drugs and through it all, possessed one of the greatest voices that has ever been heard. A voice that loaned itself to emotion with out even knowing it is was doing so.

Three years after her passing and the world is still in love with Ms. James and her music as they were when she was first discovered by Johnny Otis at the tender age of just 14 years old. Although she may have passed, the music and legend that is Ms. Etta James will live on as long as people have ears and love music.

Happy Birthday x

For more information Etta James:

https://www.facebook.com/EttaJames

Björk & Vulnicura are musics gifts of 2015.

2015-01-21T16:52:00.000-02:00

Björk & Vulnicura are the gifts of 2015.

It's been a while since we have heard anything new from Iceland's greatest export since, well, Björk. Biophilia was Björk's last album back in 2011, and whilst it is definitely one of my favourites, it has left some pretty big shoes to be filled with this latest offering.

And boy, has she has filled those shoes superbly with Vulnicura.

From the opening track, Stone Milket, wrapped in all it's drama and haunting vocals, the tone has been set for something truly wonderful and uniquely Björk. In fact it is the first three tracks, the aforementioned, Lion Song and History of Touches that speak of the time leading up to a breakup. The last of three tracks, History of Touches captures the last moment of a couple in all their togetherness before the end inevitably arrives. Three minutes of a musical cluster of emotions in one song that we have all experienced at some point in our lives.

The next three tracks have been deemed by Björk as the "post breakup" songs. The fourth track on the album and the first of this trilogy of post breakup is the hugely enormous Black Lake. Enormous in its dark nature and depth of emotion (I listened to this three times in a row and by the final listen my eyes were stinging from the tears), as well as in its time, a staggering 10 minutes long, the longest on the album and the longest ever recorded by Björk.

Tracks 5 and 6, Family and Not Get, continue with the theme of a heart broken and the subsequent road to repair. Family speaks of the death of the family unit and the grieving that one must go through. Not Get talks of the protection that love gives you in a relationship and the consequence of this dying when the other no longer loves you. Both songs deeply beautiful in all their sorrow and pain.

The last three songs of this nine track album are the "repair" songs as I like to refer to them. Atom Dance kicks off first to repair the wound left from a breakup and features Antony Hegarty from Arca (the album was co produced by Björk and both Arca & Haxan Cloak) Mouth Mantra and Quicksand round out this superb album with the final song being the most upbeat of the album, a heavily electronic track that maybe a metaphor for new beginnings, that the emotional wound does eventually heal.

As Björk says in the final line of Atom Dance; "No one is a lover alone, most hearts fear their own home". Wise words that really sum this album up. Björk has yet again been able to deliver an album that strikes a chord in some way or another, on every single level and sets a precedence for other artists that are looking for that depth in their music. A word of advice: Talk to Björk. There are far to few artists around today that actually tap into the rawness of emotion, that truly understand what the words individual and unique mean. Lucky for me and the rest of the world, Björk not only understands this, but she has become the role model of depth in music, emotional delivery and artistry that will stand the test of time.

Vulnicura: To call this a "break up" album is to simplify something much greater than a boring unimaginative label. A cure for wounds it is, but this is by far the latest addition that takes its rightful place within a select group of legendary albums, albums and music that Björk seems to be so effortlessly able to create, time and time again.

For more information on Björk:

http://bjork.com

Happy D'Day Dolly!

2015-01-19T01:00:00.000-02:00

Happy D'day, Dolly!

I am officially renaming "B'day" to "D'day" today. Why? Because it only just happen to be one of the worlds greatest living musical legends birthdays, the one and only Ms. Dolly Parton.

Anyone who knows me and/or reads this blog, will know of my love, respect and admiration for Ms. P, something that goes well beyond the trashy exterior (which I just adore) and deep to the core of this truly soulful and heartfelt woman.

Dolly Parton will turn 69 years young today and as of this year, has been entertaining the world for a staggering 60 years. The self proclaimed "dumb blonde" (I'm not offended by the dumb blonde jokes because I know I am not dumb... and I also know I am not a blonde) shows no signs of slowing down, if anything her career seems to be garnering more attention now that it ever has. Last year saw her performing at the hip Glastonbury festival which subsequently recognised her as "Best Pop Music Moment of 2014" and with new music and a string of made for TV movies chronicling her music in the pipeline, the world it seems just can't live without the effervescent Tennessee native.

The word legendary is used very loosely these days and when I choose to use it as an adjective for one of the people I am writing about, I use it wisely. There is without a question of a doubt that it is used correctly and respectfully where Ms. Parton is concerned. Having received countless awards and accolades, starring in more than 27 movies and TV shows and having sold in excess of 100 million albums, singles and downloads across some 41 studio albums, the word legend almost doesn't seem enough here.

Dolly sums life up perfectly with this quote: "The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain."

Happy Birthday x

For more information on Dolly Parton:

http://www.dollypartonentertainment.com

Something Soulful Sundays: Yuna

2015-01-18T01:32:00.002-02:00

Yuna

I love coming across new and unexpected things, none more so than (relatively) new artists. Today, on one of my many manic searches for new music, inspiring words and unique musical takes on life, I stumbled across an artist by the name of Yuna, hailing from the depths of Asia.

This 28 year old Malaysian native has been involved in music in some way or another since the age of 14 (writing her own music) and began performing live at the age of 19. Since being signed to Indie - Pop music in 2001, Yuna has released four international albums, Decorate (2011), Yuna (2012), Sixth Street EP (2013) and her latest offering, Nocturnal (2013). Numerous accolades have followed and her most recent triumph is being signed to Verve under the musical guidance of the legendary David Foster.

Yuna - Falling.

Having listened to all four of Yuna's albums, the vibe is similar and yet always fresh and crisp. Folk meets Pop with slight hints of electro modernism which is more evident on her latest album, Nocturnal. Her delivery is what I adore the most, clear and fluid. The words are beautifully simple and her music is layered yet not messy, well beyond what I have been listening to of late. Fresh and refreshing.

Stumble is what I did where this discovery is concerned and a little late to the party it seems. But as they say, "better late than never", and where Yuna is concerned, I will never not listen to her music from this day onwards. I suggest you do the same.

For more information on Yuna:

http://www.yunamusic.com

Earth Kitt

2015-01-17T12:22:00.000-02:00

Don't we all Ms. Earth Kitt, don't we all.

I remember as a child, sitting on the lap of my Poppa and being mesmerised by the re runs of Batman & Robin and how I so wanted to be a super hero. It wasn't until a vision in all black leather (I am presuming it was more like plether, but whatever) entered the TV screen, that I truly understood what feminine prowess was. Her name was Catwoman, aka Ms. Eartha Kitt. I was as smitten as a kitten, (pun intended) and a lifelong fascination with all things Earth Kitt was officially formed.

Earth Kitt would have been 88 years young today and if she were still here, I am sure she would have been purring that famous purr in some way or another. Her illustrious career started back in 1943 and it wasn't long before her Broadway debut in Carib Song had people talking. The 50's saw her enter the charts with hits like; I Want To Be Evil and Under The Bridges Of Paris, but it was her cover of the popular french song C'est Si Bon and the perennial Christmas favourite, Santa Baby, that seemed to captivate the world over with that truly unique voice and sense of style. The hits continued for many years to follow (Where Is My Man is still a firm favourite today), as did the voice overs (who could forget that raspy purr and voice) television (winning two Day Time Emmy's), stage and film roles.

Ms. Kitt was not just an entertainer, she was an activist too. Having set up the Kittsville Youth Foundation in the mid 60's to help, support and educate the underprivileged youth in Watts, Los Angeles. She was also famous in speaking out against the war in Vietnam, which cost her dearly in her career, with some reports saying nearly a decade. As a supporting member of the Women's International League For Peace And Freedom, it was no wonder that she was also a great supporter and advocate for gay marriage, many times being quoted as saying "It's a civil rights thing, isn't it?".

Ms. Earth Kitt was one woman who never truly fit a "mould" and from all accounts never wanted to. She was her own mould so to speak, a mould that has truly benefited the world on so many levels and one that I hope many will continue to follow in all aspects of her wonderful life, for many, many years to come.

Happy Birthday x

For more information on Ms. Earth Kitt:

http://www.earthakitt.com

The smoothest operator of them all: Sade Adu

2015-01-16T23:34:00.000-02:00

Sade.

Today marks the birthday of one Soul/Pop musics finest, Sade Adu, better known to most, simply as Sade.

For some thirty plus years now, Sade has been making our days and lives that little bit sweeter with the smooth sounds that only she can master. From classics like Smooth Operator and Nothing Can Come Between Us to the more recent hits like Lovers Rock and Soldier Of Love, Sade's lyrics and emotive sound have mesmerised us, awoken us and always connected us with the deepest part of who we are, our soul.

I admire people who can write, write honestly and speak their truths. Especially those with the ability at mastering words in music, words that know zero boundaries and go to the very core of every facet of the emotional states we often find ourselves in, in all their wonderful variations. Sade does just that and then some.

Thank you for the music and the meaning in your words.

Happy Birthday x

For more information on Sade:

www.sade.com

Born on this day: Mary J. Blige

2015-01-11T16:53:00.001-02:00

Mary J. Blige.

Sometimes in life there comes along a person that just seems to get it right every single time. A political leader, an activist or in this case a singer. Mary J. Blige has been singing to me via all musical formats since 1992, when I first got my hands on a copy of her debut album What's the 411? This title would later become a firm part of my vocabulary with many in the small town I grew up in, thinking I was one buckle away from a straight jacket. I knew what was real, and this lady was everything and more when it came to being the real deal.

With the release of her latest album, The London Sessions, her thirteenth studio album and for me, one of the best, Mary J. has redefined her career again, this time working with some of Britain's finest (Disclosure, Emeli Sandé and Sam Smith to name a few) and cementing herself even further into the status of "musical genius".

Another birthday brings with it more wisdom, knowledge and hopefully in this ladies case, much, much more music in the years to come.

Happy Birthday from one M to another M x

For more information on Mary J. Blige:

http://www.maryjblige.com/london-sessions