Beach House

"Teen Dream" by Beach House

My new musical obsession is the Baltimore, Maryland based duo called Beach House. I stumbled onto this group during a late night music exploration. After only 30 seconds of preview I was in love. The third album from Beach House “Teen Dream” was exactly what my soul needed at this point in time.

Alex Scally and Victoria Legrand of Beach House

This dream or sub pop takes one on a journey during every single track. I just turn this album on, turn off the lights, close my eyes and travel to places I never knew I could get to without being under the influence. Who needs drugs? Beach House is my drug.

Alex Scally on guitar and keyboards and Victoria Legrand on vocals and organ create emotional, existential odes to love,  life and nature. It is Legrand’s unique, soulful yet delicate voice however, which seems to cast a spell on me as I am haunted by the deep connection I feel to the stories told in each song. It is as if they took Nina Simone’s voice put in Victoria’s body and sent her to live with David Bowie and Pink Floyd and Joni Mitchel was her babysitter who gave her a keyboard for christmas.

Have a listen to “Used to Be” and “Norway” and you will see what I mean.

Personally I would love to see them nominated for a Grammy this year. But in reality they may be overlooked as they are not as popular as Lady Gaga. Mother monster if you can hear me…find Beach House! I think my head would explode if that collaboration ever happened.

Every time I make a find like Beach House I am more and more thankful the internet exists so persons like myself who live out on a rock in the ocean can experience culture as it changes.

Buy Beach House “Teen Dream” on iTunes today!

Kylie Minogue “Aphrodite” Review

Kylie Minogue "Aphrodite"

Kylie Minogue’s “Aphrodite” is a feast for the imagination. The fifth offering by the Australian Pop Goddess has hit #1 on the UK album chart this week. The album starts off with “All the Lovers” the lead single which is a sweet Pop Anthem. Here is a live performance of “All the Lovers.”

My favourite songs include “Get Outta My Way,” “Closer,” “Aphrodite,” “Too Much,” I guess I should just say I love the entire album from start to finish. Produced by Stuart Price and other Producers like one of my favourites Calvin Harris Aphrodite delivers…one word EPIC! I’ve listened to it 10 times since it’s release! This is definitely on my Best of 2010 list!

If you are a Kylie fan or a lover of good Pop music “Aphrodite” is just the thing for you. Get it now now iTunes!

Album Review: Sia: “We Are Born”

“We Are Born” the new album by Australian singer/songwriter Sia is a soulful, bouncy pop treat! This new sound is a departure from the downtempo, sometimes brooding folk soul sound of Sia’s previous efforts. However different, this album still highlights the gem that is Ms. Furler’s voice.

Sia "We Are Born" (2010)

I discovered Sia back in 2008 when she released “Some People Have real Problems.” I instantly fell in love with the truthful lyrics and beautifully crafted songs, which transported me to a place of introspection. I must admit I was a little sceptical about the new direction of “We Are Born” but I am happy to report Sia does not to disappoint.

Here is the video for the bouncy first single “Clap Your Hands”

“Clap your Hands,” “ Be Good to Me,” “Bring the Night” and “Never Gonna Leave Me” instantly caught my attention along with the soulful, brooding “I’m in Here.”

Sia Furler’s “We Are Born” is a great record for an afternoon drive, fun afternoon with friends or a home alone dance session. Two thumbs and ears up! 😀 I got mah copy how about you?

Video: Robyn “Dancing On My Own”

Single off Boddy Talk Pt. 1 “Dancing On My Own” I think most people can relate to this song. Watching the one you really like dancing and kissing someone else and no matter what you do you end up dancing on your own. “So far away but yet so near But you don’t see me standing here.” I think the video is great! I can feel myself in the party. Another fantastic electro-pop tune from one of my absolute favourites. Robyn!

Stuff I Like…Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe (1st December, 1985 – Present)

She is the ultimate artist totally immersed in her art from its inception. I fell in love with her work after Suite I of her Metropolis project came out in 2007 and was re-relased by Bad Boy Records in 2008. Janelle Monáe transcends genre as her unique mix of soul, hip hop, classical and pop creates an addictive confection for the ears.

I love the aesthetic and concept. Robots in the future controlled by humans as soulless mind controlled slaves. However, Cindy Mayweather, an android, falls in love with a human, Anthony. This is not allowed and she has to escape immediate disassembly. While on the run she discovers something about herself, not only does she have a soul, but she is ONE, The ArchAndroid. The one who will bring the truth that will break the  constraints of society and allow the mind controlled masses to be delivered to true enlightenment.

I know sounds a bit heavy but this is incredible musical artistry and Janelle’s voice is amazing!  The story telling and social commentary make this a powerful album.

Nominated for a Grammy for Best New Artist 2009 Monáe is poised to change the world of music with her passionate vocals and awe inspiring performances.

For your viewing pleasure here is “Tightrope” the lead single from Metropolis Suites II and II: The ArchAndroid. Buy the Album on iTunes now!