Last.fm Group Journal: Bipolar Music Taste

Non Rock/Metal Albums I Got In 2013

Thu, 16 May 2013 01:49:00 +0000

ASAP Rocky - Long. Live. ASAP

Justin Bieber - Believe Acoustic

Lil Wayne - I Am Not a Human Being II

The Band Perry- Pioneer

Tyga - Hotel California

Kid Cudi - Indicud

will.i.am - #willpower

Snoop Lion - Reincarnated

Lady Antebellum - Golden

Havoc - 13

French Montana - Excuse My French

Mike Stud - Relief

LL Cool J - Authentic

Ill Bill - The Grimy Awards

Tyler, the Creator - Wolf

Demi Lovato 'Demi' album review

Tue, 7 May 2013 19:10:17 +0000

A BRIEF OVERVIEW

Self-titled albums have generally been the best way for an artist to introduce themselves, as this tends to be employed for a debut. It is quite uncommon, therefore, when a multi-platinum, established artist decides to use this as the title of her fourth album. I'm talking about Demi Lovato, of course.

Trials and tribulations have always accompanied Lovato, both in her career and personal life. After releasing two acclaimed pop-rock infused albums whilst performing as a Disney actress on her show Sonny With A Chance, the increasing pressure got to the young starlet. In October 2010, breaking point hit, making her drop out of her support role from the Jonas tour and checking into a treatment facility. Issues such as bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, and bulimia all gave a field day to the press and caused desperation amongst her millions of loyal fans. Thankfully, 2011 represented a new start for Demi.

Unbroken (her third album) was released during the fall of that year, and it alternated upon versing about her personal struggles (Skyscraper) to presenting the listener with heavy-laden pop songs (Who's That Boy). It's low debut sales, coupled with mediocre collaborations, set it short of some people's expectations. However, the general consensus was that it revealed a different side to Demi, with some excellent yet underrated tracks. One, however, managed to shine bright - Give Your Heart a Break. Dance-pop inspired, this radio friendly song was a sleeper hit, taking 2 months to hit the pinnacle of pop radio, as well as #1 on Billboard's Pop Songs chart. This elevated its sales to platinum status, making it Demi's biggest hit.

Until Heart Attack, that is.

Demi's lead single took just 2 months to hit platinum, which represented a turning point in her career. Building immense hype for her record, she has managed to secure a considerable audience that will surely be essential to the album's success when it finally drops, on May 14th. In the meantime, let's take a look at how 'Demi' shapes up with individual track reviews.

INDIVIDUAL TRACK REVIEWS

1. Heart Attack

Familiarity is key, and Heart Attack gives it major value. The placement of this track at #1, as well as it being the lead single, gives the listener a sense of recognition and it lays foundation for what else Demi has in store.

It's not shy of its flaws, however. Lyrics such as I can play 'em like a Ken doll, make em bounce like a basketball are borderline generic. This would be an issue, if it weren't for the flip side - Demi is practically faultless in delivery. Her vocals are really, really impressive and the bridge and final chorus belt really showcase what sets her apart from her Disney counterparts.

It is no doubt Demi's best single to date. It's radio-friendly, pure pop goodness. In the context of the album, however, Heart Attack doesn't do much to stand out. It's an above average effort that only does shine as a single.

2. Made in the USA

Pop is a very volatile market, and more often than not we find ourselves amongst charts and charts of subpar songs. However, Made In The USA is perfection. This is a very high claim to make, but its selection as Demi's second single off this album just goes one step further to confirm my conviction that this is the best pop track on Demi, and a huge improvement over Heart Attack.

Right from the offset, the line Our love runs deep like a Chevy might not cause heads to turn, but this is ingenious. Taking a slogan from a very well-known American company and applying it to a song whose main theme is love and the USA is fantastic, and really shows how little details make a difference.

When we get into the core of the song, its catchiness just keeps you on lock. Demi's vocals and the lyric fluidity are just seamless. It ends with a reiteration of made in the US(A), which can be interpreted as symbol of patriotism, as its vocalist is obviously American. The only thing you'll regret is not hitting that repeat button sooner.

It's everything a pop song should be. And then more.

3. Without the Love

The first verse of this song provides a great build up, in particular with the lyric And you work so hard to get me, just to let me go. The chorus is a completely different story, however. Repeating We're good as a love song, we're good as a love song without the love is just too much. It's a tad of a disappointment, as this is lyrically a great track (sparing the chorus).

The bridge is definitely its best part, with This is how water colors fade into destined memories showcasing some great songwriting abilities. But in terms of overall production, it's generic. It feels and sounds like an Unbroken leftover.

4. Neon Lights

Party anthem. Club banger. Remix gold. This is Neon Lights.

This is the kind of song that can turn a boring night at a club to getting everyone on the dance floor. The heavy beats aren't anything new, but take Demi's vocals and you have an irresistible combination. It also adopts the same kind of catchy buildup elements that PSY's multi-platinum Gangnam Style has before the second chorus. A huge improvement over similar, much weaker efforts present on Unbroken that mostly failed to impress.

5. Two Pieces

This is a song that draws some inspiration from Demi's sophomore album, Here We Go Again, and blends it with elements of contemporary pop music. It is suited for nostalgic purposes. Definitely a great track that transitions between calmer, more intimate moments and a chorus that is sure to give it that pop feel and not set it apart from the rest of the album.

6. Nightingale

There is always that song that stands apart from the rest. For some, it's a catchy pop tune. For others, it's a ballad.

By its musical definition, a ballad is a love song that showcases emotions and favors talent and vocals over catchiness. It is a soul mover. Nightingale not only does that, but it is perfect in songwriting and vocals.

The lyrics are simple, yet deep. Demi begs for a nightingale in her life, a guider, one that can be with her (can you be my nightingale?). And then she evokes the main characteristic this species of birds are known for - singing. This nightingale is unseen, but its melody is omnipresent (sing to me, I know you're there).

It's a truly faultless song which majestically showcases her immense talent. And for me, it is the best on the album.

7. In Case

Following the trend of Nightingale, we have another, though slower and piano-only ballad. It verses upon the slim possibility of a relationship rekindling, should Demi's lover want the same as her. It's a very relatable song for all those who go through love's treacherous paths, and Demi delivers it brilliantly.

In Case puts Lovato's fantastic vocals front and center - an artist who can maintain a passion towards lyrics, keeping up with melody and delivering the end result simply with one instrument.

8. Really Don't Care (feat. Cher Lloyd)

The first thing that springs to mind when this song comes on is One Direction's insanely popular hit What Makes You Beautiful. And it's true, as its instrumental and song structure is practically the same.

Despite this, this song somewhat taints what was practically an immaculate album. Demi carries most of it pretty decently, which is a good thing, as Cher Lloyd's contribution is neither here nor there. Her Nicki Minaj-wannabe rap does little to impress, and it leaves no room for the imagination that this track would be better off without her.

9. Fire Starter

Fire Starter restarts the catchy flame as we are put under a fast paced song with humorous lines such as I'm a badass jumping off a moving train to start the pre-chorus and express her volatile and daring personality. As for the lyric: There's an 'S' under my clothes on my chest where nobody else can see, it is the key to this song and album overall.

Not only a tribute to Superman (in her case, Superwoman), but it also symbolizes her inner strength.

10. Something That We're Not

Who said only Taylor Swift was capable of subtle shade? This song is filled with indirect gold! Not gonna happen dude à la He called me up and I still love you (We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together) almost seems like America's sweetheart made a cameo on this track. While the other is about denying a second chance, this one doesn't even give the poor guy a chance at a relationship.

Nonetheless, it's funny, the melody is catchy, and it leaves one wondering if this song targets a certain member of a particular popular band...

11. Never Been Hurt

This song rushes through you like a fast train on the way to a broken frame of mind, as Demi puts her love on the line, fearlessly proclaiming I will love you, like I've never been hurt. It might end in disaster, but that isn't even on her mind as she, ever the optimist, desires to love. An everlasting love without lies or goodbyes.

Magnificent vocals as expected, great beat and an powerful love song with potential for more.

12. Shouldn't Come Back

This song is melancholically beautiful. As a reference to her biological father, this is her final farewell. For the Love of a Daughter portrayed her childhood, as some sort of prologue. This is the the present: a wounded, vulnerable girl sings in an amazing display of heartfelt emotion.

13. Warrior

As we draw to a close, Warrior is the appropriate finale. If Skyscraper was praised for being the start of her comeback, this is certainly her anthem of strength as she stands, fearless and unbroken.

Warrior transcends love. It combines references from her childhood (There's a part of me I can't get back / A little girl grew up too fast), the overcoming of her struggles (I've got shame, I've got scars), and finally, the professing of her courage (I'm stronger than I've ever been
And my armor, is made of steel, you can't get in), ending with a line full of self-confidence.

You can never hurt me again.

FINAL APPRECIATION AND RATING

The final rating combines appreciations made at the level of lyrical & production quality, vocal performance, replay value, and genre standout potential on a scale of 0 (disaster) to 10 (masterpiece).

Demi Lovato has moved on from her R&B dabble from the past era in Unbroken to her comfort zone with her self-titled fourth album, Demi. It was clear that Unbroken was far from being her best effort, with quirky collaborations, and few truly amazing songs. Most of the tracks on that album remain underrated, and it was only with Give Your Heart A Break that she managed to garner major audience.

Much has changed in the past two years. The music industry has evolved, and so has Demi's music - again. But this is a step in the right direction. It manages to take the crown away from what many consider to be her best overall album - Here We Go Again - and provide a collection of extremely good songs overall.

The production includes lots of pop elements and notable figures into this album, some more subtly than others - from the Psy-inspired beat in Neon Lights, to 1D's instrumental in Really Don't Care and a leaf out of Taylor's playbook in Something That We're Not, Lovato loves to mix the best and popular and make it something hers. Her lyrics, her rules. Something personal, yet modern.

The lyrical quality in this album is nearly faultless, with some nuances. Her vocal performances throughout, however, elevate this pop star to the level of Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, and other noticeable high-profile pop contemporary vocalists.

This album has a little for everyone. From pop gems like Made in the USA, club bangers like Neon Lights, nostalgia in the form of Two Pieces, upbeat music lovers will adore it. And then we have the ballads, those beauties. The trio of Nightingale, Shouldn't Come Back & Warrior is unprecedented in Demi's discography and a real joy to listen to.

Throughout all those songs, one thing is clear. This is very personal and beautiful album. It reflects her versatility and her talent as a singer and songwriter that packs in a ton of replay value.

And thus, after listening to it, everything becomes clear as crystal as to the reason why Demi decided to self-title her fourth album: every song describes a part of her.

FINAL RATING:

LYRICS (9.0):

PRODUCTION (8.5):

VOCALS (10):

GENRE STANDOUT POTENTIAL (9.5):

REPLAY VALUE (9.5):

OVERALL (9.5):

7 Compilation Ideas From Motorground!

Wed, 1 May 2013 01:00:16 +0000

Dear reader of this forum/journal:

I've come up with seven compilation ideas for my netlabel, Motorground Records. If you want to join any of these compilations, please message me or send me an e-mail through the following links below:

chrstiandickerson@gmail.com
youtube.com/MrArchangelfilms1
last.fm/user/archangelfilms
johnthearchangelfox.deviantart.com
facebook.com/JohntheFox

Here are my ideas:
1. Instrumental dance/electronica/hip hop compilation. Send as many tracks as you like. Deadline is the end of June.
2. Mario Paint Composer compilation. Has to have the program's music included with the track. One track per person. Deadline is July 4. Download link:
3. Outsider music tribute compilation. One track per person. Deadline is at the end of june.
4. Cybergrind compilation. One track per person. Deadline is at the end of July.
5. Toy music compilation. Has to have a toy instrument playing in the track. One track per person. Deadline is at the end of July.
6. Board game compilation. Make a song about a board game or just board games in general. One track per person. Deadline is at the end of July.
7. HUGE METAL COMPILATION! It has to be metal, or a subgenre of metal. One track per person. Deadline is open.

So, send me as many tracks as you like, if you want to be included, and it has to correspond to the rules of each compilation. Thank you.

-John the Fox AKA Christian

Tylky's 2013 -- The Second Quarter (February - May '13)

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 09:47:33 +0000

1. Bullet for My Valentine - Riot
2. Funeral for a Friend - Nails
3. Escape the Fate - Not Good Enough For Truth In Cliche
4. Taking Back Sunday - A Decade Under The Influence
5. Bowling for Soup - Girl All The Bad Guys Want
6. Sonic Boom Six - Keep on Believing
7. Andrew W.K. - Ready To Die
8. Goldfinger - 99 Red Balloons
9. Limp Bizkit - My Way
10. The Offspring - Original Prankster
11. Bloodhound Gang - The Ballad Of Chasey Lain
12. Your Favourite Martian - The Stereotypes Song
13. Owl City - When Can I See You Again?
14. Baauer - Harlem Shake
15. Rex The Dog feat. Jamie McDermot - Do You Feel What I Feel
16. Assemblage 23 - Collapse
17. Frankie Knuckles - The Whistle Song
18. Buckner & Garcia - Wreck It, Wreck-It Ralph
19. Tight Fit - The Lion Sleeps Tonight
20. Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere
21. Julian Lennon - Saltwater
22. They Might Be Giants - Birdhouse in Your Soul
23. The Clash - Rock the Casbah
24. The Coral - Dreaming of You
25. Liquido - Narcotic
26. The Primitives - Crash
27. Paramore - Now
28. Kate Nash - 3AM
29. Fern Kinney - Together We Are Beautiful
30. Nerina Pallot - Once
31. Lykke Li - Let It Fall
32. Emilíana Torrini - Unemployed in Summertime

NEW ALBUM BY JOHN THE FOX!

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:00:21 +0000

Hey everyone! I made a new album, after so long. It's called "You Have Been Warned". Check it out!

MOTOR022-You Have Been Warned

-John the Fox

OFFICIAL 'Seashore Dreams' video from FACTORY OF DREAMS - album Some Kind of Poetic Destruction (HD)

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 21:03:44 +0000

OFFICIAL 'Seashore Dreams' video from FACTORY OF DREAMS - album Some Kind of Poetic Destruction (HD)

After a long journey, Kyra sees the seashore ahead. She lays down on the sand, falls deeply asleep and dreams of Earth's invasion and the secrets soon to unfold. Within the dream, Kyra stands inside a strange and eery house close to the seashore. The ocean shows her images of the hidden Star now closing-in on the planet and images of a Metropolis being engulfed by rays of soundwaves. The answer to Earth's Fate is being revealed through 'Seashore Dreams'!!
Time is no more
As I see the Future
From the Seashore
The new Factory of Dreams' videoclip is here to support 'Some Kind of Poetic Destruction', the brand new Opus! '[Seashore Dream] is one of the best songs Factory of Dreams has ever done.' - Heavy Metal Haven's review of 'Some Kind of Poetic Destruction' http://metaltube.freeforums.org/factory-of-dreams-some-kind-of-poetic-destruction-t2875.html

New album Available @
http://www.therecordlabel.net/progressive-rock/factory-of-dreams
http://www.amazon.com/Some-Kind-Of-Poetic-Destruction/dp/B00BMUL6MI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1362827424&sr=8-1&;
http://www.recordheaven.net/index.cfm?x=browseArtist&ID=17099
http://www.cduniverse.com/sresult.asp?HT_Search=XARTIST&HT_Search_Info=Factory+Of+Dreams http://www.allmusic.com/artist/factory-of-dreams-mn0001004858#discography
http://www.hmv.co.jp/en/artist_Factory-Of-Dreams_000000000450691/item_Some-Kind-Of-Poetic-Destruction_5367319

The new album will be officially released on May the 7th and features a 12-page book with 12 artworks to depict the full story, 12 new tracks (including the EXTENDED version of Seashore Dreams never heard before) and a bonus track, great guest singers, Hugo Flores musicianship and the sublime vocals of Jessica Lehto.

Review by DjAnubis (10/10) http://djanubisreviews.blogspot.pt/2013/03/factory-of-dreams-some-kind-of-poetic.html
'Both have conjured up yet another masterpiece and have expanded on it tenfold'
'The sonic landscape which is created here by Flores and meshed with the angelic voice of Lehto leaves one craving for more after each listen'
'(...) a record that literally makes time stand still'

Review @ Heavy Metal Haven (93/100) http://metaltube.freeforums.org/factory-of-dreams-some-kind-of-poetic-destruction-t2875.html
'She's an absolutely stunning singer [Jessica]'
'The quality of the writing is also superb once again'

Review @ Seaoftranquility.org (4,5/5) http://www.seaoftranquility.org/reviews.php?op=showcontent&id=14312
'(...) filled with great music and excellent female lead vocalists'
'Let the story unfold as you bask in the glow of the surrounding soundscape' -- Read it all @ http://www.seaoftranquility.org/reviews.php?op=showcontent&id=14312

http://poeticdestruction.com
http://www.facebook.com/fdofficial
http://www.facebook.com/hugofloresmusic
http://www.facebook.com/hugofloresofficial
http://www.reverbnation.com/factoryofdreams
http://www.youtube.com/projectcreation
http://twitter.com/factoryofdreams
http://hugoflores.com

Coming Around - Matt Henshaw album OUT May 1st !

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 05:16:48 +0000

Coming Around OUT May 1st !

The new album from Matt Henshaw & ReggiiMental, the second slice and second episode of B-Boy Soul entitled Coming Around will be out on May 1st available from iTunes, Amazon, etc. and available to stream on Spotify, Last.fm, GrooveShark and many more ...

You can pre-order the album @ matthenshaw.bandcamp.com and preview tracks through the month of April ...

The artwork is fresh, the website has been updated and all the social networks are a buzzin' and a cookin' ... follow, like and share away !!!

With Love,

Matt Henshaw

MattHenshaw.com

PS. if you're a writer, blogger or journalist please feel free to reply to this email to request an advanced press copy of the album for review.

Right Now!

Tue, 9 Apr 2013 00:51:55 +0000

Hey guys/gals!

My band, Blabpipe has a new album, called Right Now!

It'll take a few more weeks to reach LastFM, but if you're interested in a new song, and a kick arse new album... then by all means, follow the rabbit:

Blabpipe on ReverbNation (where the free MP3's are)

Thanks,
Ray

Zombie Apocalypse Playlist

Sun, 7 Apr 2013 20:15:27 +0000

1.Six Feet Under - Zombie Blood Curse

2. Wiz Khalifa- Don't Make Em Like You (Feat. Ne-Yo)

3. Serj Tankian - Reconstructive Demonstrations

4. Korpiklaani - Honor

5. Chris Brown - Talk Ya Ear Off

6. Primitive Weapons - Quitters Anthem

7. Trey Songz - Successful (Feat. Drake)

8.Kottonmouth Kings - Wickit Klowns

9. Twiztid- Murder Murder Murder

10. Teamheadkick - Aliens vs. Predator

Argonaut - 'VINTAGE DRESS' - Out Monday 13th May (Criminal Records)

Thu, 4 Apr 2013 20:30:49 +0000

Argonaut - 'VINTAGE DRESS'
Out Monday 13th May (Criminal Records)

RSVP Here - https://www.facebook.com/events/582044975148488/
http://argonaut.info
@argonautband
http://www.facebook.com/argonautband

Get the track for free as part of the Criminal Records Street Team:
Sign up here:
http://criminalrecords.cc
http://facebook.com/groups/CriminalRecordsStreetTeam