Sam-Pol New Music

Review: Alicia Keys - Set The World On Fire Tour, Liverpool Echo Arena 18/05/13

2013-05-19T23:18:00.003+01:00

My Ginger friend's hair wasn't the only thing on fire last night as Alicia Keys brought Liverpool's Echo Arena to life with the opening show to the UK leg of her Set The World On Fire Tour.

Delivering piano based ballads to a capacity arena crowd sounds rather farfetched from the offset but Alicia Keys is a woman who definitely knows her worth. With a confident assertiveness to her stage presence, AK seemingly transformed what is essentially a concrete pit, into a consensual cluster of both captivated and charmed individuals, embedding soul into even the furthest of walls.
Alicia's hometown was encapsulated in most aspects of the show, and was ever so prominent as the concert opened to a New York medley. Savvy projections took us on a gliding tour of the city, flying by Brooklyn Bridge and into a block window where Alicia waited. When the transparent curtain lifted, Alicia stunned in a very NY esque get up, including a wide beamed hat and a smile to match.

There was a genuine sense of enjoyment in Alicia's performance, I don't think I've ever seen an artist so at home on the stage. Her voice soared effortlessly, the audience bearing witness to a natural gift being showcased most spectacularly. Classics such as 'You Don't Know My Name' and 'If I Ain't Got You' were a dream, phone call attached. The less known 101 proved a handy pit-stop loo break for half the audience, but they were damned if they missed the proceeding 'Fallin'. As Alicia sat at her piano for love laden ballads such as 'Tears Always Win' and 'Not Even The King', the crowd couldn't help but stand. 'Diary' was notably stunning, with a beautiful accompanying projection.

The show didn't need any fancy staging or pyrotechnics, but 4 dancers and a drum brought the party to Liverpool and ensured everyone left happy. 'Un-Thinkable' perfected the vibe early on, and a vivacious 'New Day' had fist's pumping. Closing a sensational set, Alicia donned some drums and led into her infectious anthem 'Girl On Fire'. The audience's ecstasy hit as hard as AK's drumsticks, and the concrete pit was filled with echo's of 'This Girl Is On Fiyerrrr' / 'This ginge is on fiyerr', as excitement levels burst.

'No One' naturally provided the most beautiful part of the night, Alicia encouraging the crowd to light up the arena as she let loose to her greatest hit to date. A little duo between man and wife backing singers was up there too though, their rendition of 'You're All I Need to Get By' being the cutest filler ever - Heart melter! When things seemed perfect enough, Hov's head appeared on the curtain rapping 'Empire State of Mind' whilst Alicia and 10,000 adoring fans covered the chorus for one last time.

Alicia Keys inspired, empowered and easily delivered one of the greatest shows of the decade.

Music prevails!

REVIEW: Elle 4 Liberty @ The Brink 23/03/13

2013-03-24T16:07:00.000Z

If you were a fan of live music but living in Liverpool, you just couldn't get your fix until now. I've been to hundreds of gigs here but London shows were always the best, and I've only been to one. A couple of KOF shows exempt, Liverpool has always missed that spark, there was never a vibe, no meaningful interest in the music, all passion remained hidden under a cool pretense - But have faith - In one night Miss Betty Vandy has brought Liverpool's scene back to life and given it a soul.

The night was Elle 4 Liberty, an event set up to leave young women feeling empowered. First up was a live discussion hosted by Ngunan Adamu, straight away you could see why they pay her to talk on the radio! With a warmth and grace, Ngunan had everyone in the room engaged. When I see successful, business inclined women I have an instant admiration for their work, so to have a whole ton of them in one room was certainly inspiring, I can imagine the young girls in attendance have gained a few more role models, me too!

Next we were introduced to another incredible woman, the gig's host - Adelaide MacKenzie. A tribute to her son, I Love You showcased a remarkable voice - I often stray to generic crap because it's the lazy option but Adelaide has put me back on the straight and narrow. Never shy of the mic, she was sure to sing a line or two in each of the artists sets; a beautiful confidence which she made every effort to share. Open mic performer Jade Sharna was performing to the wall for her first song, up pops Adelaide and with a few kind words and a shove in the right direction, Jade transformed into a sassy performer as if Adelaide was the fairy godmother herself. The host's genuine glow was infectious, the heart of the show, Adelaide is who you want representing women on a world stage.

Sophia, a 16 year old singer/songwriter who delivered the most phenomenal performance I've ever seen from an unsigned Liverpool artist. After a sweet sounding cover of Oasis' Wonderwall came two originals. The new and youthful Ocean & A Half was fantastic, but we were blown away by three ocean's worth with Carry On. With the pace building and the band spurring her on, the usually regimented song suddenly became a masterpiece of expression and emotion. Sophia let go and she wasn't coming back down, vocals soaring she was having the time of her life up there and couldn't you tell! She was definitely feeling good by the time it came to cover Nina Simone, I didn't doubt a word. Her mum beaming with pride and crying on the sidelines summed it up - Sophia really found her place in the music, a key moment of magnificence. Sophia's favourite ever gig, one of my favourite ever music moments, and one for her career's history book. It was pure and raw - music in its finest form!

The live band made it all possible, with some great improvisation they carried the night and elevated it to a next level. Clarity made sure she took advantage of their skills, at the same time claiming the stage like no other. She simply belongs there, whether it be as a singer or a stand-up. With an undeniable gift her songwriting depicts a story of it's own, but give her the opportunity to perform live and her ability combines with her stunningly distinctive voice to tap in to even the coldest of hearts. A cover of Rihanna's stay reminded us of the importance of the event, creating positive role models among a sea of disarray. Things soon got funky with Lemons jazzing things up before an emotive Hello High brought a fabulous set to an end.

It was time for the screaming fan girls to take position, cue MiC Lowry. They bridge the gap between discerning music fans and teenage girls perfectly, indulging harmonies for us women and a sumptuous swagger for the girls. A boy band with the ability to back their reputation. Adelaide had a bit of fun with these guys, breaking it down reggae style the shy one even had a go, it's her gift - She instills confidence.

Headliner Chelcee Grimes closed the night with a gathering of girls all crying for their idol, a timely reminder of the responsibility women have to be positive inspirations. I could keep it flowing and not mention the terrible reputation that precedes her, but stories of a bad attitude had deterred me until now and it's important everyone else stops believing them. I struggled a bit with the baby talk and continuous declaration of love for her fans, but aside from that and some unnecessary Jessie J esque funny faces, Chelcee delivered a convincing set. Songs that hadn't seemed too great before suddenly shined with her band on board, she earned her star status. If it's her fans that put you off, go to an over 18's event - She said herself she's just a kid, talent like hers doesn't deserve to be shunned.

Elle 4 Liberty was a wonderful showcase with a big team of organisations, volunteers and young people all pulling together under Betty's mentoring to deliver an outstanding evening. I didn't even notice we were in a dry bar, the music alone left us saying hello high.

The blend of London, Adelaide and the band was artfully matched by a sound tapestry of lyrics and love that only Liverpool could produce, bringing an unrivaled vibe to the city once more.

LISTEN: Naught Boy Ft. Sam Smith - La La La (Audio)

2013-03-22T18:48:00.000Z

After the absolutely sensational Wonder featured as Naughty Boy's debut single, the second has been lifted from his forthcoming album Hotel Cabana. The single features Diclosure's Sam Smith and is a slightly more mellow affair. It'll be great as a filler on the album, but considering Emeli Sandé couldn't even help get the leading single to #1, La La La is destined to a less fortunate positioning.

Even if it's unjustifiably so:

LISTEN: Kendrick Lamar Ft. Jay-Z - Bitch Don't Kill My Vibe [Remix] (Audio)

2013-03-18T18:08:00.000Z

Two sinners equates to a winner with Hov on the remix to Kendrick's classic. It's a bit of a shock to the system with Jay's first word but he quickly blends in - A credit to Lamar that he doesn't take over and simply supplements an already incredible track:

I might even prefer the original still.

LISTEN: Bridget Kelly Ft. Kendrick Lamar - Street Dreamin (Audio)

2013-03-17T22:14:00.001Z

More music from Bridget Kelly is always a blessing, particularly given its rarity. Street Dreamin sees a little spark from Kendrick Lamar add to a monotonous but welcomed track from BK. Not bad!

Not bad is good. Bridget worked well with Hov, works well with Kendrick.

LISTEN: Beyoncé - Bow Down / I Been On (Audio)

2013-03-17T21:38:00.000Z

Beyoncé is back. BEYONCÉ IS BACK! She's out to prove a point and says everything everyone with a bit of sense already knew, but did she need to? Did she need to respond to some deluded critics? Did she need to compromise her do no wrong image? Did she ever lose her place as the best to have to reaffirm it? Did she need to forego a bit of class? No. That's Rihanna's Role. We're seeing Bey in a whole new light, I think I preferred her with the light shining from a halo.

We wasn't seeing the demise of Bey, but we might just start to if she feels the need to push it anymore like this. There's nothing to prove.

EVENT: Elle 4 Liberty @ The Brink, Liverpool

2013-03-11T00:10:00.003Z

Elle 4 Liberty is the launch night of Audacious Events, a new company pioneered by Betty Vandy - A woman set on delivering regular nights of high class entertainment to Liverpool's shabby scene.

Intent on creating an event aimed specifically for young women, Elle 4 Liberty combines a music showcase with a discussion panel that will deliberate over what being empowered means to young girls.

With audience participation high in demand for the first part of the night, BBC Upfront presenter Ngunan Adamu hosts a talk with four other women. They'll cover; Domestic violence, alcohol, fashion and more - Asking your opinion along the way.

After that comes the exciting part; live music from some of Liverpool's young talent, including an open mic that could see you belt out a tune with a band.

There'll be a raffle on the night, cakes to stuff your face with and Body Shop gift bags up for grabs. All proceeds will be donated to Oxfam.

Performances From:

MiC Lowry

http://youtu.be/xuiUxBmw2h8

Chelcee Grimes

http://youtu.be/Yj1e2aU4rYw

Sophia

http://youtu.be/cJyl4psxRjw

Clarity

http://youtu.be/EpOAzRy1C8U

More Info:

@audaciousevents

Sophia - Wonderwall (Oasis Cover)

2013-02-27T20:15:00.003Z

Sophia continues to amaze us, this time adding a country twang to Oasis' 'Wonderwall'. Is there anything this girl can't do? Put her in any arena and her voice would capture the attention of every soul! The level of talent surpasses that of veterans; reminiscent of the younger Joss Stone, there's nothing to stop Sophia from being just as successful:

@sophiamusicuk

Beyoncé's Pout, a Winner for the Ticket Tout

2013-02-23T12:00:00.003Z

Are you crazy in love with your Beyoncé tickets, or feeling a little resentment about the best thing you never had? Either way it can't have been an easy ride after millions scrambled for Beyoncé tickets in one of the world's worst sales. You might not need a degree when you're schoolin' life, but Beyoncé's team could do with a few more.

Beyhive Pre-Sale: An opportunity for the most concerning fans to buy tickets 24 hours prior to any other sale. Something the right fans knew about, a reward for their loyalty you would presume. Instead, a 'Lets take advantage of their allegiance to good music', premium pre-sale. With a £30 surcharge on top of the already pricey tickets it cost you more than any other sale, seated tickets coming in at £110 each. Thank you for making us lots of money and contributing to Beyoncé's success, now giz more money. You did get a thank you email, how nice. The site mightn't have crashed but all it could do was display was a 'Try again' button. Stressed?

O2 Pre-Sale: You couldn't avoid it, watching programmes only your dad and grandad would watch out strutted Beyoncé - an incredible advert that would leave your avid seventy year old trainspotter wanting tickets (None of my relatives are trainspotters, but if yours are, good for you - Choo Choo). So now everyone wants tickets even though demand would have already met capacity with actual fans alone.. O2 customers enjoy two days access to the most sought after tickets of the year.

General sale: At last tickets would be accessible to all, all being no one with Ticketmaster revealing they were left with hardly any tickets. All venues sold out within 5 minutes. Lot's of real fans still haven't got tickets to the hottest show in the world.

So where were all the tickets?

As artists have transitioned from making money through albums to reaping the rewards of live shows, their strategies must follow. There needs to be a loyalty scheme in place for purchasing tickets. Exclusive fan bundles used to be the answer to keeping fans on side, the good customer service in the music world. Now they owe it to their supporters to ensure they can be there for the high; the epitome of the music package, the live experience. They do it in football, the same could be applied here. (The kind of loyalty scheme that doesn't rip off your fans too please Bey- It's not like you need the money more than them.) It was understandable that some people couldn't get tickets, the best performer in the world, the greatest natural high you could experience, the world's best artist and then some - But if people are going to cry about not getting tickets, they should have been there in the first place (I might have done had I been in their position). People who deserved it have been left wanting, with no regard for their regular customers this was stern business, something's there's no room for in the creative industry. Even if I had access to more than the two seats I got, I couldn't have justified more than two trips, not at £110 a pop. Never has there been a ticket sale more damaging to a person's PR. Beyoncé is the epitome of talent, one of the world's greatest business women, if she can't get it right.. there's no hope for anyone.

Girls run the world, Beyoncé's team screwed it.

Kosha Dillz - Hangin' Out - Official Video

2013-02-22T19:33:00.001Z

#CoolKid. This new video from Kosha Dillz is genius. When you've got Chubacca hangin' as your homie, you've made it (It's that cool I just said 'homie'):

From the LA based MC's forthcoming EP.

Fun, Fresh n Free.

@koshadillz

Rudimental Ft. Ella Eyre - Waiting All Night (Audio)

2013-02-21T19:39:00.002Z

Rudimental are entering the new year on the same high they left 2012, there's no slacking from these guys. There is from us though so to put it simply; Ella Eyre can sing, Rudimental can make music. Together they've created a masterpiece that goes by the name 'Waiting All Night':

Love it!

From Rudimental's self-titled debut album due 15th April.

Melanie Fiona - Wrong Side Of A Love Song - Video

2013-02-10T21:36:00.000Z

With a voice as great as the greats, the support of Roc Nation and her own sparkling character, Melanie Fiona has been on every discerning music fan's radar for some time. With a classic debut album, an average follow up ensued but Wrong Side Of A Love Song is a sure highlight from The MF Life. The video really is a movie, drawing us in like few others it's as if the new Bridget Jones film came early - They needn't look any further for the soundtrack:

Jamie Broad - I'm On This - Video

2013-02-10T20:47:00.000Z

Jamie broad exceeds himself every time, his music hard hitting, his approach graciously soft. With the best lyrics in Liverpool, everything you need to know is painted in them. His next release the 40 Project Vol 1 is sounding unreal, I'm On This is the first release from the pending paragon:

@JamieBroadMusic

We joined Jamie in the studio to get an exclusive verse from another track and put some questions to him about the 40 Project - Coming soon in a SAM-POL'D Session.

Amina Bryant - On My Own - Official Video

2013-02-09T21:09:00.000Z

On My Own is so worthy it could be an American throwback - but Amina Bryant shines from the UK, representing us like no other when it comes to hitting F5 on the old school genres. This video is for the leading track from Amina's forthcoming EP Black Cinderella, which is destined to be as creatively fulfilling as the gripping graffiti in the visual. She seems real, the music feels real, the 1up to the UK is real:

@AminaBryant

2013, The Year of The Duo

2013-02-09T20:31:00.000Z

With Chinese New Year upon us and the inevitable 'What's it the year of?' flying around, we're here to let you know it's the year of the... Duo. Two artistic minds combining to deliver an enhanced masterpiece, formed upon the basis of a special relationship that entwines intrinsic talents into an unparalleled treasure. Or it's the year of the snake if that's what you were looking for. The name of these lot should be in some fortune cookie across the world because their luck is surely in, and it's been earned through music and mastery:

Lady

Chasing Grace

AlunaGeorge

Lady Leshurr x Paigey Cakey

Lady Leshurr Ft. Paigey Cakey - LYFR - Video

2013-02-09T19:31:00.000Z

A favourite from the L Yeah mixtape, Lady Leshurr and Paigey Cakey have featured their fans in an alluring video for LYFR. I didn't really get Leshurr early on, but them fans were in the know and here contribute to an affirmation of my miscalculation. Basically, I was wrong. The video is an advert for any live shows and leaves us needing to experience this for ourselves - I wanna say L Yeah whilst wearing an L yeah tee and throwing an L all at once - In L pool for added G'ness! They go the extra mile every time with unquestionable ability:

It's good to see them inspiring and reconising young people.

Messy Beatz - Donkey Kong Project (Free Instrumentals)

2013-02-08T11:46:00.000Z

After the first 11 seconds we're sold, luckily. Instrumentals aren't our thing but Donkey Kong was, and is. Messy Beatz has took some game favourites and mellowed them out, perfect for a bit of moody rap. It gets boring quickly but a bit of lyrical content could add an intriguing new dimension that could carry the project forward and create something quite spectacular. The potential is there, it just needs a savvy rapper to give the tape a level up:

MESSY BEATZ - DONKEY KONG PROJECT by MessyBeatz

www.messybeatz.com

Nick Brewer - Spare Thoughts - Video

2013-02-08T11:17:00.000Z

Spare Thoughts could be called Nick Brewer's coming of age track, respectful lyrics depicting a matured man. The visuals fall short in realising their full potential, but the mellow vibe carries through the burger and tea to ensure his realness is heard:

www.itsnickbrewer.com

An Evening With Krafty Kuts - Liverpool 02/01/13

2013-01-19T14:51:00.000Z

Subsound, Fingerlickin' Management and Instant Vibes are bringing some southern sounds up north in February. With Krafty Kuts venturing out of Cable London, Hi-Fi in Liverpool is to benefit with a night of bass driven, belly bustin' beats from Krafty Kuts, DJ Rasp, legendary Utah Saints, A.Skillz and you - Potentially.

With DJ Rasp being on duty at Santa Chupitos during many Zombie fueled nights, he's been the most artistic DJ to catch our ear in Liverpool. A champion hip-hop turntablist, he's one of only two to ever draw our attention to the decks. He's to be joined by Utah Saints, the creators of the massive classic Something Good, whilst the well acclaimed A.Skillz and Krafty Kuts take the headline helm. A line-up of celebrated pioneers, local legends and top ten hits, all dedicating years to their perfected craft.

DJ Competition:
SubSound are offering one competition winner a fast-track pass to the world renowned line-up, the warm up slot in the main room. Not only do you gain the credentials of playing alongside these guys, you get a drinks rider and four guestlist spots for your mates too!

Enter:

Upload a maximum 10 minute mix (192kbs MP3) to subsound@ymail.com on www.wetransfer.com by 6pm on 27th January 2013. Add your email address to the mix title. Include a short bio in the message space.

Terms & Conditions

Buy Tickets

More Info

What's On in Liverpool

Justin Timberlake, Jay-Z & Timbaland - Suit & Tie (Audio)

2013-01-14T05:34:00.004Z

Justin sounds like what I imagine a teenage Bruno Mars would have; the potential is there but he's working on that presence and yet to blossom into a superstar. Not something we would expect from the experienced and established legend - It's all a bit flat, from Mr. Timberlake alone that is.

Justin's down here - Hov's up there

If Jay were to lead, Justin would hold an average chorus and it could have been something special, even more so with Timbaland on the production.. Just didn't work out this time:

Dido - No Freedom (Audio)

2013-01-12T16:04:00.004Z

Guess who's back, back again - No it isn't Eminem. She's rather a legend old Dido is so her return was welcomed in majority by those over the age of 20. No Freedom isn't going to capture her a whole new younger audience, but it can satisfy us oldies. That said, with a Kendrick Lemar collaboration on the forthcoming Girl Who Got Away record, the younger lot will soon be taught a lesson or two. No Freedom will do us fine though, even if she does sound more like a fifty year old than ever:

I'm probably being unfair, it is a good song if not a bit pointless beyond "No Love, no freedom". I'm just shocked at how old she is, in attempt to remain young I had her down as 30.

Destiny's Child - Nuclear (Audio)

2013-01-12T15:22:00.001Z

Destiny's Child, the best girl band the world has seen, partly because any group with Beyoncé in has to be, but the best nonetheless. Their reunion the most exciting music news of the year, bar any Beyoncé solo news, but exciting for music nonetheless. The song is a bit dreary and rubbish, but with beyoncé featuring it's great nonetheless - If only that last one was true. Unfortunately it's not and even Queen Bey can't give Kelly and Michelle a boost in Nuclear. To be fair, it's not their fault - Kelly does her part and goes relatively unnoticed, the artists themselves can't be faulted but the song certainly can. I get it, it's not from an album called Love Songs for nothing, but Crazy In Love, Bug A Boo (Kinda), and Say My Name are all fiery love songs that still have the world partying - Which is exactly what we needed to feed the excitement that was over spilling after Beyoncé broke the reuinion news. A droning, dull and dreary song that brings nothing to the world and makes little sense is what we get instead;

Our love for Destiny's Child can't be knocked but our anticipation over the forthcoming album has dwindled. They're going to have to pull off something more than a collection of old songs and a shit new song to make this work, and sharpish. Til' the next one, Destiny's Child yayyyy!

10 Future Stars of 2013

2012-12-12T23:58:00.002Z

A generic Ones to Watch list - Yay! These lot have hinted at what they're capable of this year, displaying extraordinary talent that can only be amplified and embraced by the world in '13. Next year undoubtedly belongs to these guys, or at least it should do anyway:

Phreeda Sharp - After hearing Gun Fire and rushing to hear her back catalogue, it was immediately obvious Phreeda Sharp was the one who could compete with the US, representing the UK as our greatest female rapper. The most promising artist I heard this year, with powerful, empowering and visionary music, Phreeda has an unbelievable gift that could be developed in line with hero Hov's. It can all be heard on her 7 Days..Mixtape. Raw talent like this is special, 2013 has to see this woman conquer.

Haim - The trio headed out on tour with Florence + The Machine this year, introducing themselves as powerful percussion lovin' siblings +1. So posh they supposedly immediately classify as cool, they border on a thin line of acceptance but with music as catchy as anything from The Ting Tings, their image and gimmick will back them up all year long:

Bastille - Supporting Emeli Sandé at the iTunes Festival was nothing but label politics for Bastille as the indie band aren't openly embracing pop, nevertheless it introduced them to a different audience including me who was completely intrigued by their City High cover. They're with EMI/Virgin and have a large, loyal student fan base so it's inevitable you'll be introduced to them sooner or later. It's a good thing:

Rubee Rayne - With some mellow acoustics creating the perfect vibe, this singing rapper has your late night music covered. You can listen all day too though, it's hard to find the pause button when music as great as this is coming through your speakers; with weighty but elevating lyrics and relatable concepts, Rubee easily captures the essence of the art with a beautiful, intrinsic talent. I'd love to see her live, but I'd just be stood in the middle with my eyes closed diminishing all responsibility for my 'in the zone' moves. I'm sure we'll be hearing more from her soon:

Chasing Grace - Having toured with Devlin and signed to Virgin, the duo will undoubtedly begin to establish themselves next year, but it's not all they've got going for them. Covers like the following have showcased a well tailored pairing and helped to ensure they'll be at the forefront, leading out the next wave of fresh talent:

Naughty Boy - With the release of his debut album Hotel Cabana due in '13, Naughty Boy is due to be rewarded with the acclamation he deserves after his work with Emeli Sandé and his input on Our Version Of Events. Wonder took the top spot on our favourite songs of 2012, could next year see him deliver the best album?

KOF - I wasn't too keen on KOF's change of direction and move towards singing initially, but I've been won over. It allows him to convey the delicate lyrics he writes in a more fitting format than his lively raps, I can live with that. With talk of major label offers in our interview, I can only hope it's finally the year the whole world gets to hear his hearty music:

Jc Villafan - An incredible gigging artist whose sweet soul will surely be picked up on in the new year. Hailing from LA, he gathered quite a following on his recent trip to Europe and has already had a fan flying in to Liverpool from Paris for a show. She must know a thing or two about good music, he's not to be missed:

MiC Lowry - These boys have been putting some serious work in this year, perfecting their sound and mastering their harmonies. With plenty of gigs around Liverpool, they've established a strong little following - The quicker these guys are taken on by a Simon Cowell type the better. There's a huge future in store for MiC Lowry if they're quick enough, hopefully they'll get the levels of success they deserve in the forthcoming year:

Lady - Nicole Wray and Terri Walker both made incredible music on their own, so what they're making together will undoubtedly be sensational. They've already made a mini masterpiece with Money, strong and inspirational women sending the right message through fabulous music - This is what you should be listening to:

If this is to be the sound of 2013, then the world sure ain't ending yet!

Barb Jungr - Stockport to Memphis / River

2012-12-10T01:03:00.002Z

Capturing a bit of that good ol' music magic, Barb Jungr delivers an album of masterfully reworked songs that are paired with some ingeniously constructed originals. Cabaret extravagance with soaring soul and tightly deep lyrics, Stockport to Memphis is a mix of film esque, blues kinda, sweet sounding, winter warming, traditional TUNES! Barb even makes working with fish sound appealing, depicting Fisherman's Blues spectacularly - Now that's a skill!

The album is a collection of excellent music for those who are into that fine art of the past, and there's even some songs for the younguns; Till My Broken Heart Begins to Mend is a contemporary original with some harmonica playing from Barb surprisingly reviving the track, New Life is smooth and easy to listen to, and then there's the highlight River; a hearty Christmas song that's touching for all. Barb makes the record somewhat relevant and there's not many artists that could revive the dusty songs in such a way, a credit to her artistry - This rap loving student is a fan!

Admittedly it's not something I'd normally listen to but I can appreciate it as good music, even if the CD probably does belong with my nan.

Stockport To Memphis is available now - Make a purchase, have a listen and then wrap it up for your parents/grandparents - Sorted!

Barb's latest single sees the 'Sad Christmas song' River reworked, with a choir supporting what was already one of the best from the album:

Where's the river Mersey though? Tragic!

River is Out Now!

www.barbjungr.co.uk

Rubee Rayne - Numb (Audio)

2012-11-20T23:03:00.002Z

Just press play, close your eyes and relate.

I'm not writing any more, your eyes are closed and you're right on her level. Trust me.

Check out the other releases from her series: Freedom & Dream Island