tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8356954309351140082024-03-14T05:51:51.136+00:00NEW MUSIC EAR : Album ReviewsIt's all about the music! New Music Ear gives album reviews for the casual or long term music listener. New artists or past greats, find something new or remember favourites and music you may have missed! Past and new album reviews and my own personal music memories. Only the original studio albums are covered, no remixes or re-workings. All eras and genres! Find your New Music Ear! :) 1 million viewers can't be wrong!:) Click search box to find your favourites!.Blogs updated regularly.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-28631067570823572172023-11-13T15:36:00.000+00:002023-11-13T15:36:14.085+00:00PRINCE - 1978 - 2021 (9 ALBUMS)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"FOR YOU"</b></span></span><br />
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<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1978</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FOR YOU</span> - The very first track on any Prince album is a little over a minute long and showcases the astounding vocal range of the then teenage artist. Harmonising with himself, using his voice as melodies and adding a Gospel and church choir like style. Brave for a first track to bare himself like this but then Prince was to be no ordinary performer!<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">IN LOVE</span> - A Pop Soul track that has very slight hints of Funk. It is essentially a mid tempo ballad. Showing the early talent this guy had for hearing unusual sounds that merge together brilliantly. All tracks here composed, performed, arranged and produced by this teenager on his debut, that in itself is remarkable.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">SOFT AND WET</span> - The first introduction to the now famous (or infamous to some) sexual innuendo laden tracks that he composed during his reign. A Disco Funk track with a little Soul, was released as a single on his 20th birthday as the first from this album.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Aq7ddhSGOSE/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Aq7ddhSGOSE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">CRAZY YOU</span> - A lovely slow tempo almost Acoustic Soul ballad. As Prince proved with many tracks in his career, less is more sometimes. This is a case in point, a great emotive and easy going track.<br />
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JUST AS LONG AS WE'RE TOGETHER</span> - The second single and is a funky Pop Disco track with some fabulous assorted instrument solos throughout the epic 6 and a half minutes. Experimentation was never a problem with Prince and this is sheer class.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/p7o4eYWFej0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p7o4eYWFej0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">BABY</span> - An outright Soul/R n' B ballad in the vein of classic early 70s artists of that ilk. Superb vocal range from Prince once again, the master of the emotively powerful ballads.</div>
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MY LOVE IS FOREVER</span> - A jaunty, bubbly and bright Pop/R n' B track with a great guitar solo towards the end. </div>
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SO BLUE</span> - This has an almost Country style intro but then turns into an Acoustic emotive Soul ballad reaching a crescendo towards the end and ending with a gentle Jazz style outro.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">I'M YOURS</span> - First real hearing of the superb guitarist that is Prince. The first real 70s style Classic Rock track from him. Some awesome guitar solos and various vocals make this one of my favourites of all of his work, its just fantastic from such a young guy at the time!</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZM1LPhGGyhAZn1pm5jX71ipiwbWhPi5AI4tnsRQYCAhYUdnayiDKb_1TOpM2mwGLT--sQIZMceKGufbHyiVIbDvJdeHO2t-Ts7nJGKHTU-AxE8uLZzgAaYU-ugqvLXbPtCbLWMUc4TV0RIQeaF1pABSgwjlC63Vwbsabg7YnvQFlvga_ddS01S9o/s300/Prince_-_Prince.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZM1LPhGGyhAZn1pm5jX71ipiwbWhPi5AI4tnsRQYCAhYUdnayiDKb_1TOpM2mwGLT--sQIZMceKGufbHyiVIbDvJdeHO2t-Ts7nJGKHTU-AxE8uLZzgAaYU-ugqvLXbPtCbLWMUc4TV0RIQeaF1pABSgwjlC63Vwbsabg7YnvQFlvga_ddS01S9o/s1600/Prince_-_Prince.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> <span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"PRINCE"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1979</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeaeFXEh-VO8Kj5HA0PxRUE5jXHEelezA6TdGiQpjfc4bbQLoieS9xFAcsxxygNiJ7Zdcoyp0w09wDGDrIQJiDuYoREZi1nzX798-HgphgL_6jMgnDamhDS4DMlVXWGvXIiQqqvQsAZTr7oonfnTzYTQi2u5I_LikZL4w9OhJBLCncWPi31eNIEUx/s500/prince10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeaeFXEh-VO8Kj5HA0PxRUE5jXHEelezA6TdGiQpjfc4bbQLoieS9xFAcsxxygNiJ7Zdcoyp0w09wDGDrIQJiDuYoREZi1nzX798-HgphgL_6jMgnDamhDS4DMlVXWGvXIiQqqvQsAZTr7oonfnTzYTQi2u5I_LikZL4w9OhJBLCncWPi31eNIEUx/s320/prince10.png" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I WANNA BE YOUR LOVER</span> - The opening track to Prince's second album was his first big hit in the USA reaching number 11 in the Billboard Hot 100 and also was his first single in the UK chart although only reaching number 41. It is a falsetto vocal all through backed by a funky almost Disco sound. At about 2 minutes 40 the Synth Pop Disco style takes us to the end of the 5 minutes plus tune<b>. </b>The first big notice that Prince was coming.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rp8WL621uGM" width="320" youtube-src-id="Rp8WL621uGM"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHY YOU WANNA TREAT ME SO BAD?</span> - A New Wave Funk Rock track, with hints of Rock N' Roll with the guitars and bass and easy drumbeat. Sung in high pitch once again but well worth a listen for the awesome guitar solo for the last minute or so, introducing us to the sublime talent.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fPaYtVJouYA" width="320" youtube-src-id="fPaYtVJouYA"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SEXY DANCER</span> - A genre popping track, not so complicated lyric wise, with lots of grunts, sighs and soft vocals with an occasional scream. Funky as hell, and because of the "orgasmic" breathy sighs was treated as risque here in the UK, clearly not ready for the upcoming Prince phenomenon just yet. It is New Wave, Synth Rock, Disco and Funk all rolled into one. Simple but engaging.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN WE'RE DANCING CLOSE AND SLOW</span> - The first real emotive ballad on the album. The line "I want to come inside of you" may be risque but that's Prince. Sex is love and faith in equal measures. Still it is a lovely, light, gentle and sweet song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WITH YOU</span> - Another emotional ballad with Motown Soul leanings, I hear its not a favourite with some Prince listeners but I like it. It has emotion and feeling and Prince's falsetto vocals give it a great emphasis. The final "...with you" at the end is heart wrenching.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BAMBI</span> - A big Rock workout with a little Funk. Heavy on the guitars with some Glam Rock hints to the likes of Marc Bolan and T-Rex in the middle of the song. Awesome guitar riffs abound. Class.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STILL WAITING</span> - A Jazzy, Rhythm and Blues track with some soulful vocals. It is bright and breezy but in a quirky soft tone. It is a nice, laid back tune although not one of Prince's best.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I FEEL FOR YOU</span> - The original version of the classic Chaka Khan hit that everyone knows. This is a funky Disco version with hints to R n' B and of course does not feature Melle Mel's rap. Its still a cool track but most people heard Chaka's version first so feel fit to compare both with this a less flattering rating. The synths and guitars blended together makes this a great track either way.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">IT'S GONNA BE LONELY </span>- The best ballad on the album comes to end the set. It has a little of everything, synths, deep bass and guitars and a repetitive drumbeat. The falsetto vocals work best on the big Gospel-like chorus. Great end to the album, one of my favourite early Prince tracks.</p><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-62Cu8F4J5VY/YAhEtPZADiI/AAAAAAAAEA0/aD9yi7Y_u9YFV3ZpGELumO3meK-D_gwdACLcBGAsYHQ/s316/PrincDirtyMind.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="316" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-62Cu8F4J5VY/YAhEtPZADiI/AAAAAAAAEA0/aD9yi7Y_u9YFV3ZpGELumO3meK-D_gwdACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/PrincDirtyMind.jpeg" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> <span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"DIRTY MIND"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1980</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAWRFa05PuqO34XYFFMlDVPIlVvlctPzcP325uOjGIYUXw9URI5RUkrqn1_PucQlzF164WlfhRUxUUmQObB4KJdPwGwYwfrb-xfKMyM_0YUZJLGApDuZK1WdmKp82ZIVn8gvwajp4autWVSXPxMU1WFksBgKcFWZOp7duwNg2IytG2rOUffb6yngd/s274/prince8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="274" data-original-width="184" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAWRFa05PuqO34XYFFMlDVPIlVvlctPzcP325uOjGIYUXw9URI5RUkrqn1_PucQlzF164WlfhRUxUUmQObB4KJdPwGwYwfrb-xfKMyM_0YUZJLGApDuZK1WdmKp82ZIVn8gvwajp4autWVSXPxMU1WFksBgKcFWZOp7duwNg2IytG2rOUffb6yngd/s1600/prince8.jpg" width="184" /></a></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DIRTY MIND</span> - The title track of this majorly creative and most controversial of his three albums so far says it all. This Synth driven New Wave track led by the masterful keyboards of Dr Fink has a pumping drumbeat, crossing Disco and Funk. Prince explains he has a "dirty mind" which is pretty much what this album is about, albeit brilliantly crafted.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c3GPPnVz1fw" width="320" youtube-src-id="c3GPPnVz1fw"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN YOU WERE MINE</span> - I heard the Cyndi Lauper cover version on her debut album before I heard this. I must say she did a great job. This is the original with Prince giving us a straight out 80s Pop Rock track with the sleek guitars prominent. Less falsetto than previous albums but this reminds of the New Wave sound of The Cars and early Blondie, showing Prince listened to what was going on around him.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DO IT ALL NIGHT </span>- This funky slice of Pop Rock was the lead single in the UK for the album but still didn't get him noticed as yet. Its repetitive chorus over a simple keyboard arrangement and funky bass make it engaging but not the best Prince track lyrically. Still gets the foot tapping though!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">GOTTA BROKEN HEART AGAIN</span> - The first ballad on the album, softly sung and emotive, a big soulful Gospel type song. Its nice but doesn't have enough to compare with other great Prince slow love songs.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">UPTOWN</span> - A great mix of Funk, Pop, Rock and Disco. The song tackles prejudices and racism and the place in the title is somewhere where no boundaries exist. This is something Prince was an advocate of, whether it be genders, genres or music expression.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZiuSRQHLv88" width="320" youtube-src-id="ZiuSRQHLv88"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HEAD</span> - The first of two supposedly outrageous songs on the album and in Prince's whole repertoire. This song celebrates fellatio, yes oral sex. The fact is, this is a superb Funk track regardless of the lyrical content. It is sexy and danceable and includes an awesome synths solo, add some breathy vocals from Lisa Coleman and this was a major punch in the eye for the prudish media.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SISTER</span> - A frenetic, guitar driven non stop New Wave Punk Rock track. Similar in tempo to other Prince tracks like Horny Toad and Jack U Off. The outrage continued as this outlined some brother-sister incest, allegedly stories abound led to the truth it was actually his stepsister. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PARTYUP</span> - Similar in vein to "1999", Prince doesn't wanna die in battle he wants to party. Seemingly about President Jimmy Carter thinking about a possible military draft for the army. Funk, Dance, Disco, Pop, Rock and Synth Pop all rolled into one. "You're gonna have to fight your own damn war, 'cos we don't wanna fight no more" Prince sings to the end.</p><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5g37n7UFP1H7slmoNbNy9AKd_IX-z8kbCkPuxBeuD4pjU37vhpoDtbYpk8kAfrHXXqOWlksWog_oS_4-3yLSgW8YrfhHiDeD04eHY1u8x58d7fslEpYaSZ4PFzNod1IEagAw17cdHZNFfgeiv1A8fe1pLQTn73RyIXVxc3TLhIyWcd9jYCxRTiOF6=s301" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="301" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5g37n7UFP1H7slmoNbNy9AKd_IX-z8kbCkPuxBeuD4pjU37vhpoDtbYpk8kAfrHXXqOWlksWog_oS_4-3yLSgW8YrfhHiDeD04eHY1u8x58d7fslEpYaSZ4PFzNod1IEagAw17cdHZNFfgeiv1A8fe1pLQTn73RyIXVxc3TLhIyWcd9jYCxRTiOF6" width="301" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b> "CONTROVERSY"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1981</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPAKKvjPN7jcYJH5J8_GwppXCgtnpHj5IYW2ki7CxXNSyoT1X2WVfpR6F6bN0WMEEQTA2j8Y7RHruLB-QvfVRFOFPhBRgshl0AmqeEKWTkfC_FV1K3Vsn5rxUhtgzoahjnZKwqNp8_MiSm91fNxj-YfZ86iFrwMa2sE6sMbwgl2ayVHwwRDbSUhfd/s1218/prince4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1218" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPAKKvjPN7jcYJH5J8_GwppXCgtnpHj5IYW2ki7CxXNSyoT1X2WVfpR6F6bN0WMEEQTA2j8Y7RHruLB-QvfVRFOFPhBRgshl0AmqeEKWTkfC_FV1K3Vsn5rxUhtgzoahjnZKwqNp8_MiSm91fNxj-YfZ86iFrwMa2sE6sMbwgl2ayVHwwRDbSUhfd/s320/prince4.jpg" width="210" /></a></b></span></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CONTROVERSY</span> - Prince's 4th album is said to have bridged the gap from the sexual energy of "Dirty Mind"<b> </b>to the Funk Rock Dance phenomenon created on "1999". The album opens with the epic 7 minute Dance title track. Its pumping funky beat along with delightful keyboard harmonising keeps the energy flowing throughout. Prince acknowledges the so called "controversies" and pretty much blatantly spells it all out about the pre-conceptions about him "am I black or white, straight or gay?" and also culture in general. It didn't chart in the UK on release but made number 5 a mere 12 years later!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4gazNwzC4H0" width="320" youtube-src-id="4gazNwzC4H0"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SEXUALITY </span>- Another funky Dance number with Prince declaring that "sexuality is all we ever need". Of course everybody must dance as well! A great track and glides along nicely with Prince's trademark sexually charged spueals adding cheekiness, eroticism, or whatever the listener takes from it.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mZO5HLRk7KE" width="320" youtube-src-id="mZO5HLRk7KE"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DO ME, BABY</span> - This track has no such innendos, it is what it says on the tin! Prince desperately asking a lover to "do me, baby" is exactly what you think. Its a slow, sexy, piano led love ballad as is synonymous with Prince's catalogue. There are no hidden overtures at the end where Prince literally takes matters into his own hands, if you know what I mean?. Yes its filthy but its Prince, and its great.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PRIVATE JOY</span> - A jaunty, bright and breezy song in a Motown/Blues hybrid ending with some nice screeching guitars which could have come earlier (no pun intended) in the song. Some real funky bass as well. Cheeky and playful but cool.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RONNIE, TALK TO RUSSIA</span> - A two minute anti-nuclear/war message to President Reagan. Its hard hitting, no nosnense machine gun style tempo tells it like it is. Prince has many times took a Political stance but usually veiled with clever lyrical connotations, this is straight to the point.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LET'S WORK</span> - One of my favourite tracks in prince's catalogue. A great Funk workout, similar to D.M.S.R. from the follow-up album, "1999". Prince delivers a falsetto vocal over a pumping beat while the synths and keyboards give a kind of melody. Way ahead of its time once again.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANNIE CHRISTIAN</span> - An unusual overdubbed track filled with techno synths, electronic whirss and faint guitar solos. The subject matter deals with obsessive fans and their weird desires to assassinate celebrities in the "name of God". Another hard hitter but Prince was never afraid to voice his opinions on anything. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">JACK U OFF</span> - In the vein of other songs of this style like "Horny Toad" for instance. Its theme is plainly obvious and about masturbation with a lover in some way or form! Its fast tempo Rock 'N Roll Blues is incredibly energetic and engaging. I remember happily singing this in my room as a boy not really understanding the lyrics but living the sound of it. Years later I wondered what my parents thought!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkDNWkGu4ak/X1JHPsr4wvI/AAAAAAAADy0/xjeGUI2zwuEjFcySumkfcSZed5ecIIKCACLcBGAsYHQ/s300/1999_cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkDNWkGu4ak/X1JHPsr4wvI/AAAAAAAADy0/xjeGUI2zwuEjFcySumkfcSZed5ecIIKCACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/1999_cover.jpg" /></a></b></div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"1999"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1982</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishPaZtmCdCPkC4XHau4iBubS6Jj_c0rHG9pnsmehlXkp5NIEUYKXbmbw1kV9WlvMoMZXRX7LajNRXXVaAF_08ORSlepW0TyTy-t8EZT7jFBiX3PGG9-QlHPXgaJxRvcwiU8AW5Oz_wTNc9YtwxVhdE4Ruyqu96oWKxTgRdL1oKs8PwemKS1bwgizq/s360/prince5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="357" data-original-width="360" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishPaZtmCdCPkC4XHau4iBubS6Jj_c0rHG9pnsmehlXkp5NIEUYKXbmbw1kV9WlvMoMZXRX7LajNRXXVaAF_08ORSlepW0TyTy-t8EZT7jFBiX3PGG9-QlHPXgaJxRvcwiU8AW5Oz_wTNc9YtwxVhdE4Ruyqu96oWKxTgRdL1oKs8PwemKS1bwgizq/s320/prince5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">1999</span> - Prince's iconic fifth album was years ahead of its time, apart from the obvious title<b>, </b>this set paved the way for what was to come, the genre experimentations corssing boundaries. This opening title track was immense, it was a fun, funky, disco dancing tune. The fact that the lyrics were incredibly dark and concerning the end of the world didn't matter. Prince just told us to party while the workd was burning! It was Funk Synth Pop, Disco and a little New Wave. A classic. Everybody's got a bomb but dance!<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LITTLE RED CORVETTE</span> - This was the track that got me hooked completely on the great man. The epitomy of Prince, this was another storming track. The fusion of Rock, Funk and Dance were to be his trademark. Throw in the obligatory seductive lines and sexual innuendos, this was just a masterpiece. An MTV classic and rightly so.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v0KpfrJE4zw" width="320" youtube-src-id="v0KpfrJE4zw"></iframe> </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DELIRIOUS</span> - A quirky, quick fire, Jazzy styled squeaky keyboards and dance beat track. It is bright, breezy and fun, it sounds like prince was having fun. Its Bluesy and has elements of Electronic Pop. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LET'S PRETEND WE'RE MARRIED</span> - An incessant synthesized keyboard and chopping drumbeat keep this track moving. Its New Wave in style, with hints of Kraftwerk in there too. The first overtly sexual lyrical content on the album. No innuendos here, and no repeating of the words here for minors reading this review! Love this track though.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KXkCtFo4ttI" width="320" youtube-src-id="KXkCtFo4ttI"></iframe> </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">D.M.S.R</span> - An absolute gem and one of my favourites from Prince. Dance, Music, Sex, Romance, the four cornerstones of Prince's songwriting techniques. This is Funk, Disco, New Wave and Synth Pop at its best. Over 8 minutes of class, it will have you singing the the four words constantly throughout and playing your imaginary funky bass. Simply class.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">AUTOMATIC</span> - An all out seduction song, one of Prince's many in his catalogue. New Wave Funk Pop over 9 and a half minutes. Its repetition does not derive from a great song. Maybe one for the Prince officianados like me who love the elongated epic tracks. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SOMETHING IN THE WATER (DOES NOT COMPUTE)</span> - Not one of my alltime favourites as its quite experimental. Its sparse Electro Synth Pop backing with Prince singing softly only to scream at any point and violently at the end, wondering why all girls are the same and things don't make sense. As with most of Prince's below par songs, they are still miles ahead of most artists.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FREE </span>- A pure Prince Soul ballad led by strong piano and guitars. Its a political statement in an emotional cloud with some Gospel choir-like vocals for good measure. Its powerful and the message is " b glad that u r free, free 2 change ur mind". Things could be worse...</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LADY CAB DRIVER</span> - Full on glimpse into Prince's "dirty mind" as we hear him taking a cab "ride" with a lady cab driver and having some good, "clean" fun with her. This is before the keyboards let rip and bring him back to reality with street noises aplenty merging with the backing. Its naughty, its fun and its funky!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ALL THE CRITICS LOVE U IN NEW YORK</span> - One of those strange Prince tracks that just don't hit the mark with its experimentation. Its repetitive title lines and its sarcastic lyrical content at the fake inhabitants of New York may be lost on anyone outside the city or who hasn't visited there. It has a lot of up and down beats, various whirrs and vocal snippets and effects. Not a favourite.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">INTERNATIONAL LOVER</span> - The song that awarded Prince his first Grammy nomination. Its another seduction song just under 6 and a half minutes. Prince is the captain and in this aeroplane one special lady is going to have fun. Prince shows off his amazing vocal range in this big Soul driven number. Hi soon to be trademark screaming falsetto can be heard in full effect. </p><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"SIGN 'O' THE TIMES"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1987</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFu5vG3xFqpUOZVrTFDVfN5DfAWKvvbdnRMjLtJNScrH9D8SgtCVQ6HgRv7ugbfRH865huOcHHf6v90LzaLi-RhMmTyJSa5BwK4bNybbE-8HNN9H-w8M1Wnemg3yOfqhljsZy7QKWXACUQeaQX7RXtygdqmCzhw6HkgfknT7KCY5HNZh070-vy4pd/s1400/prince9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1400" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFu5vG3xFqpUOZVrTFDVfN5DfAWKvvbdnRMjLtJNScrH9D8SgtCVQ6HgRv7ugbfRH865huOcHHf6v90LzaLi-RhMmTyJSa5BwK4bNybbE-8HNN9H-w8M1Wnemg3yOfqhljsZy7QKWXACUQeaQX7RXtygdqmCzhw6HkgfknT7KCY5HNZh070-vy4pd/s320/prince9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SIGN O' THE TIMES</span> - The title track was pretty cutting edge containing references to AIDS (the first song that
mentioned the disease), gang violence, drug abuse and poverty. The
Blues guitar and minimal drum machine backing made it thought provoking
and with the ground breaking lyric only video just made it more
powerful. It was the lyrics and not the performer that mattered,
something Prince was always proud of, breaking boundaries.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8EdxM72EZ94/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8EdxM72EZ94?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe> <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">PLAY IN THE SUNSHINE</span> - <b> </b>Full on joyful and playful, a real Summer foot stomper with it seems
like all the band in virtuoso mode, there a little instrument
breaks all over and the chorus is singalong, just brilliant.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">HOUSEQUAKE</span> - This is a funky, scorching dancefloor track, its manic and features the brass
section of the band with a minimal drum beat.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE BALLAD OF DOROTHY PARKER</span> - Allegedly was about a dream Prince had, even though the name was the
same as an American writer and poet he later said he did not know who
she was! Its a very nice song, although the lyrics suggest it must have
been a sex dream! Minimal backing again with just Prince on vocals and a
lady harmonising which perhaps is Susannah Melvoin.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">IT</span> - Guitar driven track, almost Hendrix style with a drum machine backing,
searing guitars and Prince basically saying he wants to do "it", and yes
your imagination is correct, it is precisely "that"! Great track
though.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">STARFISH AND COFFEE</span> - Apparently a sweet little story about one of Susannah and Wendy
Melvoin's classmates, including all the names and even the starfish for
breakfast were Susannah's recolelctions of Cynthia Rose! Minor drum,
bass and keyboards that make for a jolly little ditty that kids can
enjoy.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">SLOW LOVE</span> - An orchestrated typical Prince ballad with a little guitar and a lot of
strings, an epic almost Classical Opera style. Falsetto and normal
Prince vocals abound for the full romantic effect.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">HOT THING</span> - One of my favourites, a pulsating drumbeat with brass accompaniment and
bass was one of the "Crystal Ball" tracks as it references "tell him
you're going to the Crystal Ball". A little like another of my
favourites from the "Lovesexy" album the following year called "Dance
On".<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">FOREVER IN MY LIFE</span> - The track is minimal here and is a really lovely track and romantic, Prince
singing in his usual voice and the backing vocals sometimes come to the
fore over the lead which is very unique. The "Sign 'O' The Times"
concert film version has superb guitar backing, very Blues style and a
little funky. Classic Prince.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">U GOT THE LOOK</span> - Duet with Sheena Easton, there is so much going on but its a great thumping
track and background guitar riffs with harmonies, "Camille" (Prince's female alter ego, his voice speeded up basically) vocals and
Sheena's unmistakeable (to UK fans who remember her hits from the 80s)
vocal.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/_jCuroTbqBI/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_jCuroTbqBI?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">IF I WAS YOUR GIRLFRIEND</span> - Sung by "Camille", again minimal keyboard, bass and drum beat
singing a unique perspective of a man asking the woman if he was a woman
would she open up her feelings to him. Again, ground breaking at the
time.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">STRANGE RELATIONSHIP</span> - Credited as "Camille" once again on vocals. The keyboard Sitar sound
gives a faint Easter feel to the track and its thumping drumbeat keeps
the tempo going. One of my favourite Prince tracks.<br />
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I COULD NEVER TAKE THE PLACE OF YOUR MAN</span> - Over 6 minutes of class. Its Blues driven guitar with catchy chorus and searing solos
and funky Blues break in the middle makes this an awesome song.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE CROSS</span> - Just amazing, the song that epitomises Prince as a superb guitarist and
underrated. A bluesy feel to the song, spiritual lyrics with slow
guitar building and building into a mega crescendo solo ending. Always
loved this song live, the lighters would come out, the arena goes dark,
and everyone feels part of the Prince family. Maybe it wasn't God they
believed in but Prince. Just awesome.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">IT'S GONNA BE A BEAUTIFUL NIGHT</span> - Live Instrumental jam with all the Revolution involved, and fun is had
by all. Funky and with overdubs, a "transmississippirap" by Sheila E
(allegedly recorded over the phone!) and each section of the band gets a
segment to show their skills. Brilliant fun and is a live killer.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">ADORE </span>- This track ends the album with a falsetto ballad that would not be out of place on
Prince's first couple of albums. Its a couple of minutes too long for
me, but its a lovely song and I am sure its been used on many a romantic
night for lovers!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgih3BjS3n91G4fBzQ2QKj2QluOXAEYJuoJxshgXtvEXrEjsgV3K3sXFgwEksIcAWRUKhOxtu53F5ZAYxLzeuAs1nXyjTkd74LjDAKrv6qCdrObqYEsfswHFpai4AY6Hx41a43CqepGXzdO5WUNAnTTZRUTBdNE04ptWGtohbubwS_G6CESFcW61Mu5/s1005/PRINCE%20LOVESEXY.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1005" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgih3BjS3n91G4fBzQ2QKj2QluOXAEYJuoJxshgXtvEXrEjsgV3K3sXFgwEksIcAWRUKhOxtu53F5ZAYxLzeuAs1nXyjTkd74LjDAKrv6qCdrObqYEsfswHFpai4AY6Hx41a43CqepGXzdO5WUNAnTTZRUTBdNE04ptWGtohbubwS_G6CESFcW61Mu5/s320/PRINCE%20LOVESEXY.jpg" width="318" /></a></b></div><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"> "LOVESEXY"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1988</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunR4HYTF3UlWju-0mfQajy5rGNY2wmbisJAO6hJRFKl6TQfbJ9HQHFojboIjqvmQe1BpGGIVhRdPjgZGOBBkOAQjZCcIrhPlhZ-RQgiczY-DXb_iaFb3Nuz0RWP2ZsYMXaZArx0uWSILwg6NoveZOyhZsPaY3yGO3T1r2mDXPAH9EKeSN8OYIcnZi/s768/prince11.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="398" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgunR4HYTF3UlWju-0mfQajy5rGNY2wmbisJAO6hJRFKl6TQfbJ9HQHFojboIjqvmQe1BpGGIVhRdPjgZGOBBkOAQjZCcIrhPlhZ-RQgiczY-DXb_iaFb3Nuz0RWP2ZsYMXaZArx0uWSILwg6NoveZOyhZsPaY3yGO3T1r2mDXPAH9EKeSN8OYIcnZi/s320/prince11.jpg" width="166" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">EYE NO</span> -</b>This 10th studio album by Prince addresses the battle between good and evil, Lovesexy and Spooky Electric and tries to justify the Black Album pull put. Lyrically that's what it is about but the musical backing is a mix of Funk, various orchestration, mismatched sounds and various yelps and screams. This overpowers the actual message. Not my favourite Prince track and one of the throwaways for me (1 per every genius 10 I might add!)</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">ALPHABET ST.</span> - </b>The first single from the album is a sparse funky beat with sprinkles of electric guitar solos. Complete with a Cat Glover rap, the video contains various hidden messages saying basically, "don't buy the Black Album, I'm sorry". The song actually works and the 12" version is even better. It is basic and unlike anything else that was around at the time. It reached number 9 in the UK chart. Great track.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vP1kZLGG5gw" width="320" youtube-src-id="vP1kZLGG5gw"></iframe></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">GLAM SLAM</span> - </b>Another criminally ignored single, only reaching number 29 in the UK chart. This is one of my favourite tracks, it has elements of Funk, 60s and 70s Progressive Rock and plays out like a mini rock opera. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n-qK5MNSwoE" width="320" youtube-src-id="n-qK5MNSwoE"></iframe></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANNA STESIA</span> - </b>An eerie slow ballad with a gospel chant of "love is god, god is love". The feelings of loneliness are encompassed in this song with the only cure, some company. The spiritual and mental imagery here comes to light. I remember at a Maine Road, Manchester concert, 60,000 people sung "love is god, god is love" back to him, includng me, and like me, many were not even religious! Prince had this power in songs to convey emotions you may not know you had.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">DANCE ON</span> - </b>Not a favourite of many fans but I love the energy in this track. A pulsating funky drumbeat with thumping percussion and Classic Rock guitar segements. A catchy simplistic chorus drives this track to a higher level.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVESEXY</span> - </b>The title track is a scorcher, a great favourite of mine. A Funk Rock track with sexual innuendos, guitar licks, orchestral accompaniment and special effects. The album recapped in one song, brilliant.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN 2 R IN LOVE</span> - </b>Prince's usual soft and slow seductive ballad. Beautiful melodies and harmonies support the laid back, sexuality stance of the singer. The only track here proposed to feature on The Black Album (which everybody eventually bought anyway in some form or another!)</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">I WISH U HEAVEN</span> - </b>I don't think is a fan's favourite but I quite like it. It is simple wth a light, lush melody. It is classic Prince, a short smash of spiritual, uplifting Pop balladry. I wish it was longer (no pun intended, coming in at 2 minutes 48 seconds it has so much more to give). The third and last single to be released and made number 24 on the UK chart.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">POSITIVITY</span> - </b>I usually like Prince's elongated track, whether they be sexually driven songs or funky workouts. This track has always dragged on a little too long for me, I get the message and its a perfect bookend with the opening track. It just fails to grab me in musical form. A disappointing end to an intriguing album. The previous track could have been longer and ended the abum on a high, but that is Prince, he does what HE wants, not what you expect!</p><p style="text-align: left;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrqvRlRcThro9sNXbrsCFs_gVVMexfMadglSkbph9gStqlWVZUTNtXEST1RwMnVn2q1W7N5OFWnmW63HtSRTTQmuoRODGTedbiGfJNXjqZgpA8iS3Um2tIuID34hdJxTRMihRtGGv0AjrWKoJOuNI1YLLMBzlnEv0Y5yDpNsevugAXe748trpwd78/s355/PRINCE%20BATMAN.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="355" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrqvRlRcThro9sNXbrsCFs_gVVMexfMadglSkbph9gStqlWVZUTNtXEST1RwMnVn2q1W7N5OFWnmW63HtSRTTQmuoRODGTedbiGfJNXjqZgpA8iS3Um2tIuID34hdJxTRMihRtGGv0AjrWKoJOuNI1YLLMBzlnEv0Y5yDpNsevugAXe748trpwd78/s320/PRINCE%20BATMAN.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"> "BATMAN"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1989</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7FyQCHxFlKFz2CGQ3A-enfEJLFIpd58He_XRXvC1bFy8aMfZEarIYYeTVySWIrk3YCrBl9ajm6OQ0rSonDpJVGlVuIhh-EO3GoNQuilct9jKAjzjyJm98KVdjBS6MmBMSmwMkeD4Gh5IOWoXTM0hNbmeP3kfVVtOS3PUsWDJgdd6URvrxHgdRV_v/s1375/prince12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1375" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7FyQCHxFlKFz2CGQ3A-enfEJLFIpd58He_XRXvC1bFy8aMfZEarIYYeTVySWIrk3YCrBl9ajm6OQ0rSonDpJVGlVuIhh-EO3GoNQuilct9jKAjzjyJm98KVdjBS6MmBMSmwMkeD4Gh5IOWoXTM0hNbmeP3kfVVtOS3PUsWDJgdd6URvrxHgdRV_v/s320/prince12.jpg" width="233" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE FUTUR</span>E - </b>Prince's 11th studio album was a soundtrack to the film of the same name starring Michael Keaton. Not a soundtrack score but tracks Prince wrote to accompany the film and his own ideas and a new persona, Gemini. I think the album is underrated by many and this opening track is a funky styled Electronic Pop track with a pumping beat and a genius spoken but catchy chorus.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">ELECTRIC CHAIR</span> - </b>One of my favourite tracks, the guitar is amazing on this. A screeching rocker similar to Prince's early late 70s days. Very cool.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE ARMS OF ORION</span> - </b>A beautiful sounding slow ballad duet with Sheena Easton. Not many fans' favourites but I love the sweet sound of this. A contrast to the last duet, the upbeat "U Got The Look". The third single from the album and reached number 27 in the UK CHART. <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">PARTYMAN</span> - </b>Another tongue in cheek classic from Prince, it is fun, quirky and funky as hell. Awesome track and again criminally ignored here in the UK, reaching only number 14. Also coming in various remixes which were equally appealing.<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AjY8HvpNu6o" width="320" youtube-src-id="AjY8HvpNu6o"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">VICKI WAITING</span> - </b>A slightly funky slow to mid tempo ballad with a steady drumbeat backing. Not one of my favourites but its a decent enough song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">TRUST</span> - </b>A big, brash funk workout track. Reminds me of The Time in that quirky, teasing dance style. Always loved this song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">LEMON CRUSH</span> - </b>An experimental dark sounding slice of eerie Funk. A mish mash of sounds, effects and drumbeats with perhaps the least notable lyrics on the whole album.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">SCANDALOUS</span> - </b>This was released as a single in other countries, the style is similar to other saucy, sex laden tracks such as "Do Me, Baby". Big operatic vocals, lazy, jazzy stle chanteuse backing, giving just the right "lighting" to an intimate time! On the 12" version it ends up being a 20 minute sex fest with his then girlfriend, Kim Basinger (who was Vicki Vale in the film). Still its a great love song, Prince style.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">BATDANCE</span> - </b>Reaching number 2 in the UK chart, this first single from the album was a masterpiece of Prince's genius. Keeping in the vein of the "Batman" keeping snippets from the dialogue, effects and incorporating hints of Blues, Jazz, Funk, Rock and mashing it altogether to make a unique track. It is sheer class and definitely up there as one of my faovurite Prince tracks. Like "Partyman" came in some brilliant remixes.<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ulOLYnOthIw" width="320" youtube-src-id="ulOLYnOthIw"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p><div><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CHOTyuC7viU/YSD4A-_03_I/AAAAAAAAEPk/6t25Cae9hqc8wrhifF8Rz74AEg8KzJCngCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/PRINCE%2BWELCOME%2B2%2BAMERICA.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CHOTyuC7viU/YSD4A-_03_I/AAAAAAAAEPk/6t25Cae9hqc8wrhifF8Rz74AEg8KzJCngCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/PRINCE%2BWELCOME%2B2%2BAMERICA.jpg" width="320" /></a><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"WELCOME 2 AMERICA"</b></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2021</b></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF6_PJjqUukUVh--Zp0C5nq4lZfd3ircX-tLxxVOMSe8gdJGMY94oYo1ujN4MGBfhyRNPb2ItcpWUYbVOSm0P2k_A_iTwUTOIHMXaK163JiaUUsC8PLsKPrMP8KDCzARG1-piIofd8B2cbUeQmmIBWBpmhB1gf_wJVMWXaQBN-mrEq50PrId69Dom9/s745/prince7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="542" data-original-width="745" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF6_PJjqUukUVh--Zp0C5nq4lZfd3ircX-tLxxVOMSe8gdJGMY94oYo1ujN4MGBfhyRNPb2ItcpWUYbVOSm0P2k_A_iTwUTOIHMXaK163JiaUUsC8PLsKPrMP8KDCzARG1-piIofd8B2cbUeQmmIBWBpmhB1gf_wJVMWXaQBN-mrEq50PrId69Dom9/s320/prince7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WELCOME 2 AMERICA</span> - The title track starts with an eerie, sparse soundtrack before giving glimpses of a little funkiness. Prince's sarcastic social commentary is backed by female harmonised vocals. It reminds me of the "Lovesexy" album in its creation. its funky, quirky and has some electronic noises interspersed with guitar and bass licks. Cool opener.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HJtxSdTL488" width="320" youtube-src-id="HJtxSdTL488"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RUNNING GAME (SON OF A SLAVE MASTER)</span> - A light funky jazz number even though the lyrical content is slightly dark in composition. It rolls along nicely and is laid back but I guess the content is more important than the quality of the opener.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BORN 2 DIE</span> - Prince's famous falsetto vocals emerge in this track. another slice of light funk with an irresistible simple catchy chorus. Again the song is light but the lyrics are not so, seemingly talking about a "bad girl" which could be a prostitute and/or a drug taker/seller. Great track nonetheless.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">1000 LIGHT YEARS FROM HERE</span> - A light Pop/R n' B track, with a hint of Jazz. Prince again backed brilliantly by the "three ladies", Shelby J, Elisa Fiorillo and Liv Warfield. Its a jaunty little number that will give you a lift.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HOT SUMMER</span> - A more upbeat, Pop track reminding me of a Roxette track. Its funky and has a great ongoing beat with some great harmonies by the ladies and another simple catchy singalong chorus. Prince kicks it up with some searing guitar midway into the track. This is one of those Prince tracks that seems simple but seems still ahead of its time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STAND UP AND B STRONG</span> - Elisa joins Prince on this first verse at the lead mic. Its a really beauitful and melancholic song. This for me is on a par with some of Prince's greatest ballads such as "Sometimes It Snows In April" and "Still Would Stand All Time". Brilliant and one track that tells you how much this guy is missed in music. Uplifting and sad in large amounts with a positive message.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wwhjYRXoO_U" width="320" youtube-src-id="wwhjYRXoO_U"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CHECK THE RECORD</span> - The tempo rises in this cool rocker. Its dirty, kick-ass beat and searing guitar licks pump up the volume on the album. Also some trademark Prince piercing screams for good measure. Awesome track.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SAME PAGE, DIFFERENT BOOK</span> - Similar in vein to the title track, that Electronic Funk style of "Lovesexy" tracks and various voices linking. Another gem.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN SHE COMES</span> - Prince's famous (some would say infamous!) sexy lyrical content arrive on this album. This is exactly what you think, no innuendos here. Its a great slice of sexy, naughty romanticism in the style of "Do Me, Baby" and the like. Non-fans hate this sort of stuff but us Prince fans love it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">1010 (RIN TIN TIN)</span> - A Jazz-Funk composition with mentions to the aforementioned Rin Tin Tin, The Lone Ranger, Beethoven and Bach. Add to this eclectic name check with nods to Social Media, earthquakes and genetics. Yes its that weird but its still good! As with most of Prince's work, even the mad and bad is still better than most other artists' best work!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">YES</span> - Prince is encouraging us to say "YES" if we want a better future. Its uptempo Funk Rock reminding me a little of the "Batman" soundtrack in its composition. Under 3 minutes of glorious fun(k).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ONE DAY WE WILL ALL B FREE</span> - The final track on this album is a little bit of everything we have just heard, a summary of "Welcome 2 America" if you like. A nice little easy going singalong chorus adds to this nice ending.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><b>ALSO ON NEW MUSIC EAR - </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><b> </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><b><a href="https://www.newmusicear.com/2023/08/prince-and-the-revolution-albums.html">PRINCE AND THE REVOLUTION</a><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><b> </b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.newmusicear.com/2023/08/the-time-albums.html"><b>THE TIME</b></a><br /></div><br /> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-77550716802524801852023-11-13T15:35:00.000+00:002023-11-13T15:35:32.598+00:00PRINCE AND THE REVOLUTION - 1984 - 1986 (THE COMPLETE 3 ALBUM COLLECTION)<div><div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSeDL-_hIAyftyDzXD5xyMdyGGsJjGMZrLmznhei2smLUSmo7-4XcSHSP0oTiJ60dbZL-2rPpK8zZEPbTtNR58kB_mGdqf1bN5vEKJJWALOOw-l1P8pK19wj1-qoAFpI2OClwLJU0WJhvdtJA2i54DLif8ff2MiDlTUmk_MQpwJkFEbqTW6hx0rNe7kr0/s680/prince%20purple%20rain%201.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="680" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSeDL-_hIAyftyDzXD5xyMdyGGsJjGMZrLmznhei2smLUSmo7-4XcSHSP0oTiJ60dbZL-2rPpK8zZEPbTtNR58kB_mGdqf1bN5vEKJJWALOOw-l1P8pK19wj1-qoAFpI2OClwLJU0WJhvdtJA2i54DLif8ff2MiDlTUmk_MQpwJkFEbqTW6hx0rNe7kr0/s320/prince%20purple%20rain%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"PURPLE RAIN" </b></span></span><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;"> "1984"</b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRaf2nw8Ev3uwgYC5WXnac46pZuI_myieGHPDSfX65Jhl02cYDGCQKc9nTjZeh5znsDTG0RgHWjlJpVprZmdrWysEH6QPjfF0CMH3P97UcmcTjDyvkfVMjUyG9r66-joMTTcZueXQkNYVLlJxBnZVjRMHLzDFuPlytC7LJCR5ImvmmntvEX2zXH-PLPM/s1200/prince6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRaf2nw8Ev3uwgYC5WXnac46pZuI_myieGHPDSfX65Jhl02cYDGCQKc9nTjZeh5znsDTG0RgHWjlJpVprZmdrWysEH6QPjfF0CMH3P97UcmcTjDyvkfVMjUyG9r66-joMTTcZueXQkNYVLlJxBnZVjRMHLzDFuPlytC7LJCR5ImvmmntvEX2zXH-PLPM/s320/prince6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="color: #fcff01;"><b>LET'S GO CRAZY</b></span> - The abum opens with the famous church organ sounding out with a little Prince-like "sermon" before firing up a blistering funky Rock anthem that is one of my favourite songs by the man. The single was the 2nd single release from the album and along with its B-side "Take Me With U" hit number 7 in the UK chart. If previous releases wan't enough proof this track shows Prince the brilliant guitarist.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aXJhDltzYVQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="aXJhDltzYVQ"></iframe></div> <p></p><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">TAKE ME WITH U</span></b> - As previously stated this was a double A-side of "Let's Go Crazy" which radio sometimes played as an alternative. Sung as a duet with Apollonia Kotero (the female lead in the "Purple Rain" movie) with co-vocals by Jill Jones and Lisa Coleman. A melodic easy going romantic track with strings bringing down the pace a bit after the opening track.</p><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE BEAUTIFUL ONES</span></b> - One of Prince's most loved sexy, lustful, emotionally charged romantic ballads. Although not filled with innuendos like previous Prince tracks this is an impassioned plea to a lover to choose between him and another. Great song.</p><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">COMPUTER BLUE</span></b> - An experimental epic Funk, Synth and Rock jam. It is brilliant and wacky at the same time but has some awesome guitar parts and if anyone else but Prince made this we'd be wondering what is going on but its a superb track.</p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">DARLING NIKKI</span> - The infamous track which pretty much ordered the Parental Advisory stickers to be placed on records after Tipper Gore criticised the song for being too sexual dealing with female masturbation and various other sexual practices. I find this censorship even more amusing now given what the rappers sing about, gang warfare and treating women like lower citizens. Surely sex is not as bad as abuse and fighting? Great song and typical Prince, not holds barred!</p><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN DOVES CRY</span></b> - One of my all time favourite songs not just by Prince. Its simplicity and hooks make it a superb song and as the first single from this set it reached number 4 in the UK chart. Led by a drum machine with no bass line this was a funk dance song with a difference. One of Prince's best.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UG3VcCAlUgE" width="320" youtube-src-id="UG3VcCAlUgE"></iframe></div><br /><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">I WOULD DIE 4 U</span></b> - A short track here, but a great song, great melody and funky beat. The extended version of this track is immense and a much more punchy listen. Released as the fourth single from the album only reaching number 58 in the UK chart, probably due to every household probably having the album by then|!</p><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">BABY, I'M A STAR</span></b> - Weirdly put here before the title track as I think the film order was better. In the film "Purple Rain" is played and everyone realise how great the Kid is and then he relaxes and celebrates with this track. An awesome funk workout with all of The Revolution involved. Funk excellence.</p><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">PURPLE RAIN</span></b> - What more can be said of this track that hasn't been said already. Its a classic Rock ballad of epic proportions. The full version here needs to be heard to the end to feel the magnificence of the track. It always annoyed me that the radio would cut off the song just before the guitar solos started. The single did reach number 6 in the UK chart and now has more poignancy and sadness on hearing it since the great man's death. This is pure genius and a classic in all music not just Rock.</p><p> </p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3hA9Umzn1JWhJ3Zn4SGI0B29V3f2uWCIxnCg-lwo00FZUDjVCui6OdTE5xVgo1INwmVk5H-1YnB3z1mErJo4eHePD7hKOIbn0Q4egqkw48qoc5lFovvSRoVoCLlHHAxLjSq-VVExoEEQqr2Nhx9QQTb7KpdV64fqD6E4N7xoTUr0Fk4EPwRRh4zBNKI/s503/princearoundtheworld.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="503" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3hA9Umzn1JWhJ3Zn4SGI0B29V3f2uWCIxnCg-lwo00FZUDjVCui6OdTE5xVgo1INwmVk5H-1YnB3z1mErJo4eHePD7hKOIbn0Q4egqkw48qoc5lFovvSRoVoCLlHHAxLjSq-VVExoEEQqr2Nhx9QQTb7KpdV64fqD6E4N7xoTUr0Fk4EPwRRh4zBNKI/s320/princearoundtheworld.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">"AROUND THE WORLD IN A DAY"</span></b></div> <p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">1985</b></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFdDX364D6GXO9a_EIeC5aDJygFOq3sLq5OxUqnS6wiQoiEKO3SwsgsSqJx_8C-ued8FC_fKRi3wYjKj-VipDrjIreOmoTOsNVi5eN9YZpPaTkrJtutudV6rWAuhoTiuX2hqZdpup7C_Kq3tA6UmYRlWO71W1Zskqo_T3C75zCZ3cIkjcAr669xf5MP8/s480/prince1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="336" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFdDX364D6GXO9a_EIeC5aDJygFOq3sLq5OxUqnS6wiQoiEKO3SwsgsSqJx_8C-ued8FC_fKRi3wYjKj-VipDrjIreOmoTOsNVi5eN9YZpPaTkrJtutudV6rWAuhoTiuX2hqZdpup7C_Kq3tA6UmYRlWO71W1Zskqo_T3C75zCZ3cIkjcAr669xf5MP8/s320/prince1.jpg" width="224" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;"></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">AROUND THE WORLD IN A DAY</span> - Prince's second album with The Revolution was a vast shift from "Purple Rain". Those who expected part two of that album got a Psychedelic 60's feeling album and were not sure what to make of it. This opening track was very hippie style but also had a weird Eastern influence to it. As an intro its ok but not one of my favourites.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PAISLEY PARK</span> - I love this track, its Psychedelic laid back, swaying 70s Rock works a treat with a sing along chorus and extra 60s style effects. The single reached number 18 in the UK chart as the second single from this album.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aXJhDltzYVQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="aXJhDltzYVQ"></iframe></div> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CONDITION OF THE HEART</span> - No Prince album is complete without the obligatory passionate ballad. This piano led track with various effects and vocals is a nice track, very emotional but again not one of my favourites.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RASPBERRY BERET</span> - A great track with a memorable chorus, not as Psychedelic as the previous tracks but a little funky and quirky. The song was released as the lead single from the album and reached number 25 in the UK chart which I found remarkable as ts a great radio-friendly song. One of my favourites.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aXJhDltzYVQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="aXJhDltzYVQ"></iframe></div> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TAMBORINE</span> - A strange little track consisting of various percussion instruments which sounds like one of Prince's "filler" tracks. It has a quirky charm and is almost a more over percussive track than the brilliant "Dance On" from "Lovesexy".</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">AMERICA</span> - A great Funk Rock track, great guitars and an incessant beat. Love this track especially the 21 minute extended mix which is pretty glorious! Love this. This track was only released in the USA not surprisingly.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">POP LIFE</span> - This track as a single only reached number 60 in the UK chart which is strange to me. I can only assume a lot of people had the album already because this track is a great Pop song. Maybe the narrative about celebrity stress leading to drug misuse swayed that decision not to play it on radio as much. It was an attack on drug use not condonging it. Not the first time Prince has been misunderstood! </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE LADDER</span> - A beautiful ballad referencing people looking for the ladder to heaven maybe or a way out of their real life problems. Its one of Prince's greatest ballads in my opinon but I am sure others may disagree.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TEMPTATION</span> - A blend of various styles and genes in one song. Its sometimes glorious, sometimes crazy and frenetic and calm at the same time. An unusual track that only Prince could compose but its like Marmite, you either love it or hate it!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><div><div><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0vZyNaXNE6u9cjUcRjUWi3ZWVKGx4mGW9TRI8U9VbXooZlesXTvv11Okv2EVrTAnDdGiHyET3uSfFae1mG-Iek5DL4o5bTQmU8oYkbrSD-aRQ6-8_e3UAYKbtvAi7ayWUmzhxeqHCO3R30bewYUHbgSxJE0aDGxpOhXOJ1bKm7IYmWQeTJ6feVcM/s950/PRINCE%20PARADE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="950" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0vZyNaXNE6u9cjUcRjUWi3ZWVKGx4mGW9TRI8U9VbXooZlesXTvv11Okv2EVrTAnDdGiHyET3uSfFae1mG-Iek5DL4o5bTQmU8oYkbrSD-aRQ6-8_e3UAYKbtvAi7ayWUmzhxeqHCO3R30bewYUHbgSxJE0aDGxpOhXOJ1bKm7IYmWQeTJ6feVcM/s320/PRINCE%20PARADE.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b> "PARADE"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">1986 </span></span><br /></b></div><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg12BjaM7A9yy08mwCGWRKB__17SUl5JUMeOGXRh4k-Sv0v38tYgjVrjRqCk5bFi75HgfZHXdbywWLgBATMPDi2neoObA57vupfu4a-UejIsI22Kq-0t7wOORuvNHeecxbOsVqPNAPBeVSXWMn-7GrgM5sKsA0nHA_rtq8bLuJmnGPilQDWHEsWFgHE/s640/prince2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg12BjaM7A9yy08mwCGWRKB__17SUl5JUMeOGXRh4k-Sv0v38tYgjVrjRqCk5bFi75HgfZHXdbywWLgBATMPDi2neoObA57vupfu4a-UejIsI22Kq-0t7wOORuvNHeecxbOsVqPNAPBeVSXWMn-7GrgM5sKsA0nHA_rtq8bLuJmnGPilQDWHEsWFgHE/s320/prince2.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><b><br /></b></span><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">CHRISTOPHER TRACY'S PARADE</span> - </b>This
album is also the soundtrack to Prince's second movie "Under The Cherry
Moon". This opening track is a whimsical almost fairgound sounding
intro to his character. It pretty much carries on the Psychedelic style
of the previous album "Around The World In A Day"</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">NEW POSITION</span> - </b>A
mainly percussive track with Prince basically saying his woman needs a
"new position", which we can all guess in what manner! As with a few of
these tracks this is experimental and would appear fleetingly over
scenes in the film.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">I WONDER U</span> - </b>A
repetitive vocal fronts a strange percussive backing with a little
guitar twinkling sporadically. For some reason this album is a lot of
Prince's fans' favourite, but it lacks quality songs in my opinion and
is a soundtrack album with a few gems.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">UNDER THE CHERRY MOON</span> - </b>The
title of the film and actually I quite like this track. The first
track to near 3 minutes and its a lazy, jazzy kind of number that keeps
the listener engaged.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">GIRLS & BOYS</span> - </b>The
first of the "gems" I have previously referred to. One of my favourite
Prince tracks. A neat slice of Funk with Eric Leeds' starring on
saxophone. Marie France seduces in French while Prince attempts a short
rap. Classy track. Reached number 11 in the UK chart and was the
fourth single to be released.</p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gQcKgAsQHzs" width="320" youtube-src-id="gQcKgAsQHzs"></iframe></div><b> </b><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">LIFE CAN BE SO NICE</span> </b>- Another experimental track that is repetitive and serves as a "filler" of sorts.</p><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">VENUS DE MILO</span> - </b>A short but beautifully played piano led piece.</p><p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">MOUNTAINS</span> - </b>One
of my favourites and a great track, the10 minute extended version is
even better. This second single ridiculously only reached number 45 in
the UK chart. Another criminally ignored Prince track, surprising after
the success of "Kiss". It has Pop and Funk elements as well as some
orchestral parts courtesy of Clare Fischer, more sax from Eric Leeds and
trumpet from Atlanta Bliss. Genius.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_WmPeLOLDnA" width="320" youtube-src-id="_WmPeLOLDnA"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">DO U LIE?</span> - </b>The
character Christopher Tracy is a funny guy and this is a humorous,
sarcastic song which is funny if you have seen the film. If you haven't
this is just more experimental Prince!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">KISS</span> - </b>The
first single to be released from this album reached number 6 in the UK
chart. Its minimal, brash and sexy Funk charmed listeners who didn't
know what to expect after the previous album. Classic Prince.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANOTHERLOVERHOLENYOHEAD</span> - </b>The
third single released and only reaching number 36 on the UK chart. Its
singalong chorus and lazy Funk style is a hit with Prince fans and is
one of my favourite tracks. </p><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">SOMETIMES IT SNOWS IN APRIL</span> - </b>A
beloved ballad and it has become more so since the death of Prince in
2016. The line "Tracy died..." resonates with fans as they know who
Tracy was. Its a beautiful, soulful and emotional ballad. Its up there
with "Purple Rain" and "Still Would Stand All Time" for me.</div><div> </div><div><span style="color: red;"><b>ALSO ON NEW MUSIC EAR-</b></span></div><div><span style="color: red;"><b> </b></span></div><div><span style="color: red;"><b><a href="https://www.newmusicear.com/2023/07/prince-albums.html">PRINCE</a> </b></span></div><div><span style="color: red;"><b> </b></span></div><div><a href="https://www.newmusicear.com/2023/08/the-time-albums.html"><b>THE TIME</b></a> <br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-34688924169772813602023-11-11T15:57:00.001+00:002023-11-11T15:57:26.193+00:00DURAN DURAN - 1981 -1982 (2 ALBUMS)<p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigJOZIEiFGtBs92zXHVHbAtClVH3k2w825YdjcUQc5PU8UsTwrNQxS2nCxI5l17O65hifH8WTBPhkeYqH68TRL9hIm55Fc1vdD8wGZv1AssgZ0jl2QhUamUEh-XQ3Dwf2URHWEMLSlPvt1uMU1rieDJX-FH3H-9eyBO31mnMVcLkwXr4fsLfUENVbg/s300/Duran_Duran_(1981_album).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigJOZIEiFGtBs92zXHVHbAtClVH3k2w825YdjcUQc5PU8UsTwrNQxS2nCxI5l17O65hifH8WTBPhkeYqH68TRL9hIm55Fc1vdD8wGZv1AssgZ0jl2QhUamUEh-XQ3Dwf2URHWEMLSlPvt1uMU1rieDJX-FH3H-9eyBO31mnMVcLkwXr4fsLfUENVbg/s1600/Duran_Duran_(1981_album).png" width="300" /></a></b></div><b></b><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"DURAN DURAN"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1981</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL39vT4jj-chzzyqeJZIxwTucCKRFlrNdhVooDakrO3vs-ZGVk5gXoK-uzr720kteHrYdEf_Ymkmw5GwrPCLeR2AR7EG06aVBp-0E5vFmGb4GfM5iIrFOj7RFvg1Ny-tOGRWxGcTidL21rMmKSH60IhZuAZ4KvgE7IxwTtMHNKcotyuAT0-OBOg77l/s2048/duranduran1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1606" data-original-width="2048" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL39vT4jj-chzzyqeJZIxwTucCKRFlrNdhVooDakrO3vs-ZGVk5gXoK-uzr720kteHrYdEf_Ymkmw5GwrPCLeR2AR7EG06aVBp-0E5vFmGb4GfM5iIrFOj7RFvg1Ny-tOGRWxGcTidL21rMmKSH60IhZuAZ4KvgE7IxwTtMHNKcotyuAT0-OBOg77l/s320/duranduran1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">GIRLS ON FILM</span> - This debut album by the band opens with this brilliant New Wave track. Their breakthrough single in the UK chart reaching number 5. Its cheeky and somewhat sarcastic lyrics about the glamour and glitz of the modelling industry are backed by an irresistible pumping rhythm and keyboard and guitar accompanient. Its just a classic Duran Duran song and a classic 80s song as well. Top opener.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KCjMZMxNr-0" width="320" youtube-src-id="KCjMZMxNr-0"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PLANET EARTH </span>- The debut single only reached number 12 in the UK chart. This is more Synth Pop Disco than the previous track. Again with the pumping rhythm but more experimental than "Girls On Film" and the chorus is not as catchy but still engaging to be a great song.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8NF6Qa84mno" width="320" youtube-src-id="8NF6Qa84mno"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANYONE OUT THERE</span> - This is one of my favourite Duran Duran tracks, it has a more rockier guitar backing. Also a funky bass appears with echoed vocals in one segment. This is more Pop Rock and as the band proved with their album tracks in the future, this was more than just a New Romantic Pop band.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TO THE SHORE</span> - A moody, erotic sounding track with its almost sleazy melody, it is nice enough as singer Simon Le Bon does his best male chanteuse. Not a favourite of mine, it fails to lift off as a ballad unlike the later classic "Save A Prayer"</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CARELESS MEMORIES</span> - This second single failed to recapture the Top 20 success of "Planet Earth" and was considered to be the record company's idea for release a 7". The band took charge with the obvious hit "Girls On Film". I quite like this track, it is not as catchy as other Duran Duran songs but it has a simple chorus and good moments. Synth Pop with a little Rock. Maybe it was too experimental for the radio fans.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">NIGHT BOAT</span> - Haunting and mysterious almost Punk Synth Pop with a little Bond theme styled pizzazz. Could have easily preceded "A View To A Kill" as the band's movie soundtrack. Great track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SOUND OF THUNDER</span> - This track passes me by a little. It reminds me of an attempt to match Ultravox's anthemic Synth style but this fails to stack up next to Midge Ure's band. Another dap squib for me.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FRIENDS OF MINE</span> - I always loved this track, its dark and has a good Electro Rock vibe with a New Wave Punk element. It did annoy me at times as I liked the band, along with A-ha later on, that they were described always as the "little girls" band. The fact is these guys could play and were genuine artists as proved that they are still going today. The singles apart, the albums always contained surprises and more darker tones.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TEL AVIV</span> - A 5 and a half minute ending to the album where Le Bon takes a breather and the band play an almost orchestrated sombre, moody Middle Eastern jam. I always like an album to finish on a high but this is a disappointing low note, albeit a nice piece of music. A good debut but there were bigger and brighter albums to come.</p><div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--lm0OcFsJkM/Wd-GSnK6LFI/AAAAAAAABJw/QPJOmGaU4pMHPp0ao8ZfCpxFDxzEHJnjACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/DURAN%2BDURAN%2BRIO%2B2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="352" height="318" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--lm0OcFsJkM/Wd-GSnK6LFI/AAAAAAAABJw/QPJOmGaU4pMHPp0ao8ZfCpxFDxzEHJnjACPcBGAYYCw/s320/DURAN%2BDURAN%2BRIO%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"RIO"</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1982</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNn6ZK5sG4ffpZIkCLWjlIsbdZOoT1LAB8APi4u5p5RvgYAB9DZKhrGM480doEfJOh3QjvxYJlVIvq0p_3h3-Mnd_nrnDl6wIdkCuUi3SJo3zEpUybVmSGymUeH9s9n3TNKmnwd_lDmPiemRfdE-UbGx1_wmZ8645sSJD4s-OTTa2eIL3ynD_r6qS/s1440/duranduran2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1046" data-original-width="1440" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNn6ZK5sG4ffpZIkCLWjlIsbdZOoT1LAB8APi4u5p5RvgYAB9DZKhrGM480doEfJOh3QjvxYJlVIvq0p_3h3-Mnd_nrnDl6wIdkCuUi3SJo3zEpUybVmSGymUeH9s9n3TNKmnwd_lDmPiemRfdE-UbGx1_wmZ8645sSJD4s-OTTa2eIL3ynD_r6qS/s320/duranduran2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RIO</span> - A classy Pop song which whisks you away into a bright, sunny climate and has you happily singing the chorus as though you were in Summer. With elements of New Wave and Synth Pop this was archetypal of the early 80s era.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/nTizYn3-QN0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nTizYn3-QN0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">MY OWN WAY</span> - This track was similar in style to the debut album's Electro Pop style, a catchy chorus yet again and an ideal follow-on single after "Girls On Film".</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">LONELY IN YOUR NIGHTMARE</span> - An unusual one, it reminds me a little of a Gary Numan track in his
prime, with its mix of haunting guitars and electronics. However, the
chorus is quite catchy and its a nice song. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">HUNGRY LIKE THE WOLF</span> - Has elements similar to "My Own Way" and "Rio", a perfect crossover from the debut album to this second one. A more polished sound with lesser Electronic effects than previous tracks by the band.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">HOLD BACK THE RAIN</span> - A slightly more rockier sound on this track, upbeat and a powerful chorus.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">NEW RELIGION</span> - One of my favourite Duran Duran tracks, Simon Le Bon's vocals really suit this
mix of singing and speaking and a great chorus. Love this track on the
live Arena album, would have been a great single.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">LAST CHANCE ON STAIRWAY</span> - A perfect fit for the whole style of this album, similar to "Rio" and
"Hungry Like The Wolf" but without the catchy choruses. A great uptempo
song nonetheless.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">SAVE A PRAYER</span> - Superb, a big favourite of mine and lots of fans I think. Just a really
heartwarming song, great lyrics and an accomplished song all round. The ultimate Duran Duran ballad.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/6Uxc9eFcZyM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6Uxc9eFcZyM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE CHAUFFEUR</span> - Classy, its mysterious, dark and and minimal but has a medieval feel and its a
big favourite of mine, I think its probably not chart material which
shows the band's experimental side which came through in later albums.
This is the kind of track I like, the "fans favourites" not the public
popularity chart buffs.</div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>ALSO ON NEW MUSIC EAR -</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.newmusicear.com/2023/08/arcadia-album.html"><b>ARCADIA</b></a><br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-27441483030464518032023-11-11T15:57:00.000+00:002023-11-11T15:57:12.812+00:00ARCADIA - 1985 (THE COMPLETE 1 ALBUM COLLECTION)<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnzT3jLzzyCTigqZ-dY-NpjNzHXijiqJNAl46meEJn5EsWRDVyyDuAsvzH8ciwY_ZXFs0mhvbnSIubLYUGCOJxMkMzQGHryZniUOIK7WYt-ozSNYZGt9y-EJPxN8SyNtr-F4U28Ia8sMeEFhC7PanvfT2aLjjMIgeI52Kpgkd8bawHGUNbvuh2ezFg5pI/s600/ARCADIA%20SO%20RED%20THE%20ROSE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnzT3jLzzyCTigqZ-dY-NpjNzHXijiqJNAl46meEJn5EsWRDVyyDuAsvzH8ciwY_ZXFs0mhvbnSIubLYUGCOJxMkMzQGHryZniUOIK7WYt-ozSNYZGt9y-EJPxN8SyNtr-F4U28Ia8sMeEFhC7PanvfT2aLjjMIgeI52Kpgkd8bawHGUNbvuh2ezFg5pI/s320/ARCADIA%20SO%20RED%20THE%20ROSE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"></span><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">"SO RED THE ROSE"</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">1985 <span style="background-color: white;"> </span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSEdabtAHy_KFtms6dYWpoCpz04DbPdMZDwj8DmrGMFuVI4U9ClxvSbzfc5_MumvAYd0h8FiYqGK4R063rWuZXD2tXcgKjYawVeyK39SWYWTtfQrsrTBR_yt9q-p9CAimSDXS2wGIe_Jcdn4BngA8lZblWJHsHCEvQQo0gLCX001JcvfyrJNAdd8c4ks/s1140/ARCADIA%201.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1140" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSEdabtAHy_KFtms6dYWpoCpz04DbPdMZDwj8DmrGMFuVI4U9ClxvSbzfc5_MumvAYd0h8FiYqGK4R063rWuZXD2tXcgKjYawVeyK39SWYWTtfQrsrTBR_yt9q-p9CAimSDXS2wGIe_Jcdn4BngA8lZblWJHsHCEvQQo0gLCX001JcvfyrJNAdd8c4ks/s320/ARCADIA%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ELECTION DAY</span> - This one-off album featuring Duran Duran's Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes and Roger Taylor kicks off with this great track. I loved this so much I bought the 12" and that was even better. A mix of synth pop, funk, new wave and various effects and saxophone this was a move away from the Duran Duran sound and probably influence the "Notorious" album. This was the lead single from this album and reached number 7 in the UK chart. Also features Grace Jones on vocals!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4W5aKwrsYIM" width="320" youtube-src-id="4W5aKwrsYIM"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">KEEP ME IN THE DARK</span> - A very poppy sounding track and even though the chorus is not really "catchy" it is a decent song with loads of pips and squeaks and some nice synth and bass sounds. Most similar to the the early Duran Duran sound.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">GOODBYE IS FOREVER</span> - This has some funky bass and is a great New Wave Pop song, reminds me of some of the tracks on "Seven And The Ragged Tiger" with its atmospheric leanings. Only a release as single in USA, I think it would have done well in the UK.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE FLAME</span> - The third UK single from the album and only reaching number 58 in the chart. It has a similar feel to "View To A Kill" but a lesser version. It meanders along nicely and is a reasoable track but fails to give that killer touch.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MISSING</span> - This is a nice, easy going, eerily Gothic sounding track with a mystical feel to it. Pretty cool.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ROSE ARCANA</span> - 51 seconds of an instrumental track that is just a "filler" with no notable value, just a selection of effects, whirrs and pips and a tiny bit of choral vocal.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE PROMISE</span> - Featuring Sting on vocals and Herbie Hancock on keyboards this is the second best track on the album after "Election Day". Released as the second single in the UK and reaching number 37 on the chart. This is brilliant, great New Wave Rock Pop with some great vocals by Simon and I think David Gilmour plays a prominent role on this too. The guitars are pretty much Progressive Rock based. Love this track epic track in all of its 8 minutes.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-Uf4xI7CP4c" width="320" youtube-src-id="-Uf4xI7CP4c"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">EL DIABLO</span> - Another brilliant track that echoes the Duran Duran sound with a little extra, great chorus and some Spanish sounding guitars and what sounds like panpipes? Another favourite of mine from this album.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LADY ICE</span> - A 7 minute epic track to end the album which is pretty much an advertisement for the whole album as it incorporates much of what has been heard already. Its mysterious, eerie at times and its a bit drawn out for effect but its ok.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><b>ALSO ON NEW MUSIC EAR - </b></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.newmusicear.com/2023/08/duranduran-albums.html"><b>DURAN DURAN</b></a><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-70969767760586830412023-11-11T15:56:00.000+00:002023-11-11T15:56:53.545+00:00MADONNA - 1983 - 2003 (9 ALBUMS)<div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hktEoM4nf0I/XternK5EHoI/AAAAAAAADo4/1M6iYweiTfQk9L3kcKUcWA3TatvEi0sOwCK4BGAsYHg/Madonna%252C_debut_album_cover.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hktEoM4nf0I/XternK5EHoI/AAAAAAAADo4/1M6iYweiTfQk9L3kcKUcWA3TatvEi0sOwCK4BGAsYHg/Madonna%252C_debut_album_cover.png" /></a></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"MADONNA"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">1983 </span></span><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwctnzGvDckXHeqRn_Q7coA73Ky9lB_wJJ7RXXeH-_jCOkfjqcIm6klL9gBa4J2hpg5l3FKtqGRwyDaP2hggWVXf6kzVSx3D_nLZVV93D7thHdv_5UZ0mzNSO8TZl2XNEZNKwWPLmzwzxR_FAr3IbM6VskTmtPRm-2Ij9XEiPmJi2H0BV9-1gazxRr/s641/madonna4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwctnzGvDckXHeqRn_Q7coA73Ky9lB_wJJ7RXXeH-_jCOkfjqcIm6klL9gBa4J2hpg5l3FKtqGRwyDaP2hggWVXf6kzVSx3D_nLZVV93D7thHdv_5UZ0mzNSO8TZl2XNEZNKwWPLmzwzxR_FAr3IbM6VskTmtPRm-2Ij9XEiPmJi2H0BV9-1gazxRr/s320/madonna4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LUCKY STAR</span> - The opening track is a Disco Pop song, which became her trademark for this debut album before moving into more Pop areas in her next few albums. Its mid tempo beats and twangy guitars and elctro synths made this an accessible staple to radio airplay connecting to a variety of listeners. Classic Madonna.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ThHz9wlBeLU" width="320" youtube-src-id="ThHz9wlBeLU"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BORDERLINE</span> - A change of direction after the first upbeat song, this is a kind of Pop ballad set to a Disco track. Some lovely harmonies and became her first top ten hit in the USA. A Reggie Lucas written composition and it gave Madonna chance to explore her vocals and conveying emotion in her songs. One of my favourites.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BURNING UP</span> - One of my top songs by Madonna. Similar to the later "Gambler". It is a fast paced Disco beat laden track with a rockier twist with random guitar riffs. A real gem.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pufec0Hps00" width="320" youtube-src-id="pufec0Hps00"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I KNOW IT </span>- This track is keyboard led and has a nice 60s Pop/Rock N' Roll vibe akin to the later "True Blue". A catchy chorus and an accomplished composition from the pen of Madonna. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HOLIDAY</span> - The Disco classic and staple of many a party in the 80s and even now. Classic Madonna Dance track with its midtempo beats and summery sound merging with a very catchy and memorable chorus. Just brilliant. Written by Curtis Hudson and Lisa Stevens of Pure Energy. After Madonna was given this song and accepted it she never looked back! <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THINK OF ME</span> - Similar in vein to "Lucky Star" but it lacks a little something for me. A nice Saxophone solo but doesn't grab me and hasn't since I first started collecting Madonna records. Its always one of those songs I skip. Maybe its because this debut album has some classics its just not up to speed.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PHYSICAL ATTRACTION</span> - The second song on the album written by Reggie Lucas, its a slower Disco Pop track like "Borderline". I always liked this ong but thought it was a little too long and a short, sharp 4 minute track would have sufficed. Its overlong at over 6 minutes. Good for the Dance officianados though!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">EVERYBODY</span> - The debut single from Madonna did not strike a chord with critics on first release in the USA. Its a little R n 'B, a little Pop and a ltitle Disco. The soulful style was supposed to draw her to more black audiences but it was a slow burner. Some suggested the single sleeve should have had Madonna's face on the cover to make her "the face of the 80s". I love this, always have, great song, catchy chorus and unique.</div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhM3jpp9DouCbs7uU0tMQqrbGSPcgE5W8qYd1df7SikJvrUKPP8ySYDjiq9C3qnJdKyRsCn9q2eEbN0kcKrmWyc3wX39nqCI4CHQhZHK7EVROs4f22T3vihbYCLZtCTQwv5Eep5NrqpIJ9FW2kw13N-ZQkUrginNMGgoZU84I8Nso6DE8Z5OMCUaRPR=s1400" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhM3jpp9DouCbs7uU0tMQqrbGSPcgE5W8qYd1df7SikJvrUKPP8ySYDjiq9C3qnJdKyRsCn9q2eEbN0kcKrmWyc3wX39nqCI4CHQhZHK7EVROs4f22T3vihbYCLZtCTQwv5Eep5NrqpIJ9FW2kw13N-ZQkUrginNMGgoZU84I8Nso6DE8Z5OMCUaRPR=s320" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b> "LIKE A VIRGIN"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1984</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMF5CRjDZCtwgoKtPJeH-nCyP2VXz0f6ThQcPuGM5dHUqhh-eweQmvAQHCpxQBXshLbXJCpZpf5IL6CN-mHLFanNsfcLwT1xK_3teHdRfx87oC3o3aH0OqAmNyzN7wb8YG9SYa_rbXM0oobs30dz6CkfrsBfNT92zVp3tyLdAwPl57XKZWzldkcoko/s810/madonna2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="810" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMF5CRjDZCtwgoKtPJeH-nCyP2VXz0f6ThQcPuGM5dHUqhh-eweQmvAQHCpxQBXshLbXJCpZpf5IL6CN-mHLFanNsfcLwT1xK_3teHdRfx87oC3o3aH0OqAmNyzN7wb8YG9SYa_rbXM0oobs30dz6CkfrsBfNT92zVp3tyLdAwPl57XKZWzldkcoko/s320/madonna2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MATERIAL GIRL</span> - Madonna's second album opens with the quirky, self mimicking tribute to Marilyn Monroe. Its a bouncy track with hints of New Wave Pop and old style orchestration but keeping to the dance feel. The chorus is memorable and catchy and Madonna plays up to the "femme fatale" with a penchant for the finer things in life. Great song and reached number 3 in the UK singles chart echoing the title track's feat. Madonna was here to stay.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANGEL</span> - One of my favourite tracks by Madonna. Its got a slight Motown and Soul feel and Madonnas vocal is more serious than the previous track, emotional and passionate. Its a really nice song, great melody and simple chorus. Another single from the album and reached number 5 in the charts, yet another top ten hit!<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LIKE A VIRGIN</span> - The unmistakeable electronic intro and sexy breathy vocals made this one of the most well known and loved songs of the 80s and Madonna herself. It is saucy, funky and innuendo-laden but an absolute Pop gem. This title track reached number 3 in the UK chart and paved the way for 80s success.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s__rX_WL100" width="320" youtube-src-id="s__rX_WL100"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">OVER AND OVER</span> - An uptempo and very cool Synth Pop styled track. Its simple continuing backing and "pop pop" style vocals and repetitive chorus make this a great Dance tune.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE DON'T LIVE HERE ANYMORE</span> - I always loved it when Madonna sung ballads due to the harsh criticism by the media of her vocal talent. The fact was that Madonna changed her styles to suit the song as this track proves. A beautifully emotional ballad of the Rose Royce classic. This orchestrated gem is a highlight of the album bar the single hits.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DRESS YOU UP</span> - One of my favourites and I loved this on the Virgin Tour, its got that simple incessant percussion and the vocals lift the song to the big chorus. Its funky, bright and saucy in abundance. Awesome track that became another top ten single in the UK reaching number 5.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mWtpd8mS5jw" width="320" youtube-src-id="mWtpd8mS5jw"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SHOO-BEE-DOO</span> - Again a beautifully sung Pop ballad in a Motown Soul style. This is just a great song and one I never tire of playing it. Don't be fooled by the child-like title this is a pure gem.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PRETENDER</span> - This song is a little like "Physical Attraction" on the first album, it fails to lift off for me. Its repetition doesn't do it any favours this time. Its a decent song but on an album full of great tracks this falls short.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STAY</span> - The final track should have been a single in my opinion. Its a great Pop song with a catchy chorus, nice backing and a good beat. A more accomplished album ends building a bridge between Disco of the first album with the Pop style of the next album, "True Blue". </p><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_aZxjYlmb6R61ZIpDxH4ngHrFyaYUuu9vJFtipFKImzXtYxnR5xLMW-y77aNRDXbv1UxD0Hp0MzxFFTJlltCO6E2tHT9BINPKfwdCTP6puaUwz9zsiq0JH_IQElBIItqo8vK4DsxVDrN1nH66jG4WBpv4gxIPCGhpNbpl9_oOTXL13bdFAajsi9dR=s605" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_aZxjYlmb6R61ZIpDxH4ngHrFyaYUuu9vJFtipFKImzXtYxnR5xLMW-y77aNRDXbv1UxD0Hp0MzxFFTJlltCO6E2tHT9BINPKfwdCTP6puaUwz9zsiq0JH_IQElBIItqo8vK4DsxVDrN1nH66jG4WBpv4gxIPCGhpNbpl9_oOTXL13bdFAajsi9dR=s320" width="317" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b> "TRUE BLUE"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1986</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23JCJaG0nfZbD2fjev8rDyoCj-UOPuO7sHBJAl0mqtAwRLFImkUcUGgxPTkPQ1N0AIzC0lPnk2ZXla_QkYzBxvKx_pbgSDpzYa_qeVdgkh_ot_bo9yCvHGVdReMsRQd_S5gcPzUNCzti_r5anomu0UtP4nvffft4k4MmtnU3Lfp8x5RtaNDX434p4/s774/madonna5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23JCJaG0nfZbD2fjev8rDyoCj-UOPuO7sHBJAl0mqtAwRLFImkUcUGgxPTkPQ1N0AIzC0lPnk2ZXla_QkYzBxvKx_pbgSDpzYa_qeVdgkh_ot_bo9yCvHGVdReMsRQd_S5gcPzUNCzti_r5anomu0UtP4nvffft4k4MmtnU3Lfp8x5RtaNDX434p4/s320/madonna5.jpg" width="248" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PAPA DON'T PREACH</span> - Madonna's third studio album opens with the critically acclaimed track that was her second number 1 in the UK chart. A positive anthem for young mothers everywhere and stressing the message that women can be strong in adversity. This strong feminine image was pioneering to women throughout the 80s and 90s. A great mid tempo orchestrated Pop ballad. Classic.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">OPEN YOUR HEART</span> - A favourite track of mine, I love the throbbing uptempo clattering of drums. A great anthemic chorus and big vocals from Madonna. reaching number 4 on the UK chart, the top ten hits kept coming. This had a hint of Motown and R 'n B in there too. One of Madonna's best.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/snsTmi9N9Gs" width="320" youtube-src-id="snsTmi9N9Gs"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHITE HEAT</span> - This is a mid to fast paced Synth Pop with hints of Rock guitar sounds. Sampling the film White Heat's dialogue and gunshots its a decent song. Not one of my favourites but its got a good tempo but is a little too repetitive for me. As with all great artists there has to a handful of songs that honestly we have to say don't match the majority of class we are accustomed to.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LIVE TO TELL</span> - An incredibly moving and passionate Pop ballad. This again proves Madonna's growing maturity in songwriting and vocal skills. The lead single from this album reached number 2 in the UK chart. An absolute classic.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IzAO9A9GjgI" width="320" youtube-src-id="IzAO9A9GjgI"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHERE'S THE PARTY</span> - An energetic Dance Disco track that would not be out of place on either of the first two albums. Its big, brash and bouncy and Madonna's vocals carry this to an acceptable level of quality. Its a decent song if not a great song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TRUE BLUE</span> - The title track reached number 1 on the UK chart and is a really cool old style Rock 'N Roll doo wop ballad with that hint of Motown Soul. Complete with cute harmonies and a very slight but clever beat in the background. It is Dance Pop with a twist. Great song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LA ISLA BONITA</span> - Spanish for "The Beautiful Island" this Latin inspired mid tempo Pop ballad is another brilliant song. It also became yet another number 1 for the already titled Queen of Pop. Lovely vocals over a summery sunny beat and exquisite Spanish guitar mark this down as classic Madonna.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">JIMMY JIMMY</span> - Really not sure of this one, it sounds like a filler, an afterthought. It sounds more like a demo that Madonna made during her "early years" recordings. It tries to be old style 50s Rock 'N Roll but doesn't really work. The bridge has a nice layered vocal but that's the only positive I take from this. Never been a song I continue to play from my Madonna collection.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND</span> - Enhanced its reputation at the Live Aid performance. This is a greeat Dance Pop song with a positive message. Apart from "Jimmy Jimmy" this is another polished album with some fabulous tracks proving that Madonna was smashing the 80s as she would do in the 90s and early 2000s too.</p>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"LIKE A PRAYER" </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1989</b></span></span></div>
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</span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKCSkKhmEBlm49ZWCV-GSiZgp5BL-_LoTZsHLjwaxLApXBdqxjvyAwofWVuV5gm2uM9Mko2hDxobnZvMDyRqR2g8yxGuBmoJJ8OIw0DfMw-sPQYZBqgUYdjqzgS4leS9k2rAq3LRjy-bXlsejdgZ5_-2p7cEOHubL5iSNhfYmSB1ifS1giBholLXr/s914/madonna1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="914" data-original-width="760" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKCSkKhmEBlm49ZWCV-GSiZgp5BL-_LoTZsHLjwaxLApXBdqxjvyAwofWVuV5gm2uM9Mko2hDxobnZvMDyRqR2g8yxGuBmoJJ8OIw0DfMw-sPQYZBqgUYdjqzgS4leS9k2rAq3LRjy-bXlsejdgZ5_-2p7cEOHubL5iSNhfYmSB1ifS1giBholLXr/s320/madonna1.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LIKE A PRAYER</span> - The "black Jesus" video controversy was a little silly to me, and yes there
were burning crosses etc. To someone like me who isn't at all religious
and finds the whole religious blasphemy etc an incredible waste of
energy and thought. The song is great Pop and the Gospel parts were really nice and I took a very spiritual and positive opinion from the track. Light backing on the verses and upbeat for the chorus. One of her best songs.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/79fzeNUqQbQ/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/79fzeNUqQbQ?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">EXPRESS YOURSELF</span> - <b> </b>Classic Madonna, Disco Pop and prompted a horde of remixes for the clubs. Throbbing drumbeat, and various other genres if you listen closely, a little brass and saxophone is also present.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE SONG</span> - brilliant collaboration with my other idol Prince, I wish they had made
more songs together. It was classy, experimental and off beat, but the
influence of Prince is unmistakeable, it was similar to the songs he
was making for the "Batman" soundtrack. Pure class by two icons.</div>
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TILL DEATH DO US PART</span> - An uptempo kind of ballad, a sign of a much more mature sound to come, reminds me a little of Abba and Roxette.</div>
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PROMISE TO TRY</span> - Nice song but a little too "musical" for me, maybe she was thinking
about the "Evita" film a few years later. A little too unremarkable for
this album although its a big shoe to fill as its full of gems.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">CHERISH</span> - Was my favourite video, and a favourite song of mine, light and breezy
akin to "True Blue", its cute and clever Pop at its best and Madonna playing with
the Merpeople in the water was sweet.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8q2WS6ahCnY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8q2WS6ahCnY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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DEAR JESSIE</span> - A Disney-like children's bedtime story, complete with "candy kisses", "pink elephants and lemonade", lovely lullaby-esque song.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">OH FATHER</span> - Beautiful heartfely melancholic ballad which showed Madonna could deliver emotion as well as a Disco classic!</div>
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KEEP IT TOGETHER</span> - Spawned many remixes for the 12" and party lovers. Classic Funk Dance
with a message, I think it was a massive dancefloor hit in the USA. One of my favourites and great sing-a-long chorus.</div>
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SPANISH EYES</span> - A Latin sounding song, really nice and in the vein of "La Isla Bonita" only more of a ballad and slightly more darker.</div>
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ACT OF CONTRITION</span> - Weird concoction of sounds, allegedly its Prince's guitar work, the
choir's gospel backwards from "Like A Prayer" and Madonna reciting the
Roman Catholic prayer of confession and repentance! Strange but I guess
there was needed a fill in for the running time of the album!</div>
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<br /></div><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxQ9tD3bamtLBq6XGBxjuVmFFDFLvuGiRvLknOBw0xRREexQ2n7nc7jcct8XGNEnQvgRmEYFpTNfqSdtrJx2r3FLeDV-m2EsFZBk46436eRKA1aDUnJO-TpALkoVVSFLrEl-4hyxLrX8B0RctRUksck6faZlKMkZ5VFK4SsGeJghn7R-de5OkKSVlC=s355" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="355" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxQ9tD3bamtLBq6XGBxjuVmFFDFLvuGiRvLknOBw0xRREexQ2n7nc7jcct8XGNEnQvgRmEYFpTNfqSdtrJx2r3FLeDV-m2EsFZBk46436eRKA1aDUnJO-TpALkoVVSFLrEl-4hyxLrX8B0RctRUksck6faZlKMkZ5VFK4SsGeJghn7R-de5OkKSVlC=s320" width="320" /></a></b></div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b> "EROTICA"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1992</b></span></span><b> <br /></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCx1kcgY2YtO_lzrcKBVzlZlLYeGy91Ot4Umm4mBoYzYgiMac938MSh51HRn6GJWcqUvWc1XmJ_AvbUtF_wxHQuKnh88_-RqMYsajLp5dUf-ODoQzVHzHcDEE6J91pZAmPG8KqJ_ADTL1Q-ZY4oD4KJHlsH381l_wkOYn35cmKnl8DBW7FEQjTxrL-/s799/madonna6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCx1kcgY2YtO_lzrcKBVzlZlLYeGy91Ot4Umm4mBoYzYgiMac938MSh51HRn6GJWcqUvWc1XmJ_AvbUtF_wxHQuKnh88_-RqMYsajLp5dUf-ODoQzVHzHcDEE6J91pZAmPG8KqJ_ADTL1Q-ZY4oD4KJHlsH381l_wkOYn35cmKnl8DBW7FEQjTxrL-/s320/madonna6.jpg" width="240" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">EROTICA</span> - The fifth studio album by Madonna was released at the same time as her accompanying book, "SEX"<b>. </b>The video for this title track caused as much controversy as the book. The song itself is a trip hop style sexy dance song. It reached number 3 in the UK chart, it paved a way for more experimental leanings later in her career after the pure Pop of her previous albums. Although "Like A Prayer" was edging towards this album. Not one of my ultimate favourite Madonna songs but still a great one.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FEVER</span> - A cover version of the song made famous by Peggy Lee, although this is more of a House dance song. It leads on nicely from the title track in this album but its still a weak song in my opinion, more for the club dance officianados rather than music lovers of multi genres. It surprisingly reached number 6 in the UK.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BYE BYE BABY</span> - I didn't like this song at first but it grew on me over the years. It works well as a Pop song and also club and dance fans. The beat pumps along nicely with Madonna's mostly spoken sqeuaky vocals merging well into the song. The vocals are apparently representing a 1940s feel coming through an old radio. Clever.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DEEPER AND DEEPER</span> - All of the single from this album all reached top 10 but only the title track making the top 5. It was a mixed reception for this new sound after her last 11 singles all reached the big 5. This track only made number 6 and was a more Deep House Pop track, it was a more catchy song than others here. This was Madonna at her best once again.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHERE LIFE BEGINS</span> - The pace is slowed down a little with this song. It has like a jazzy Pop feel to it with a slowed down big beat. Nice keyboard sounds and Madonna does her best sultry, sexy chanteuse vocal. It's a good song and has a nice vibe to it.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BAD GIRL</span> - One of my favourites and definately the best track on this album for me. Criminally only reached number 10 its a great mid tempo Pop ballad with a brilliant chorus. It is up there with Madonna's classics in my opinion. The brilliant Christopher Walken stars in the video.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OsHnROYjdgo" width="320" youtube-src-id="OsHnROYjdgo"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WAITING</span> - A great sleazy dance style track with elements of Jazz and some really nice keyboard parts. Madonna has a more fuller deep vocal on this, the big brash beat elevates it to a great song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THIEF OF HEARTS</span> - This track has never been a favourite of mine and seems to go nowhere fast. It meanders along with a similar vein all the way through. Not a great song worthy of Madonna's back catalogue I'm afraid.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WORDS</span> - Similar to the previous track, this is pretty bland all the way through without hitting any heights. Not a great song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RAIN</span> - Back to her best on this track. Really love this and it is a favourite, along with "Bad Girl" the best offering on this album by far. Reaching number 7 on the UK chart is remarkable as its a great song. It has a great vocal by Madonna, lots of great harmonies and the song itself has a great positive and emotional feel. Classic Pop.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/15kWlTrpt5k" width="320" youtube-src-id="15kWlTrpt5k"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHY'S IS IT SO HARD</span> - This is similar in vein to "Deeper and Deeper" in its beat, its a little repetitive but still a good song although average by Madonna's high standards.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">IN THIS LIFE</span> - This is a slightly off key keyboard led track. This actually sounds like an "Evita" song, a classical themed ballad. Great emotional vocals from Madonna and maybe tracks like these gave her the role of Eva Peron a few years later. Nice song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DID YOU DO IT?</span> - Basically Andre "Dre" Betts, Mark Goodman and Dave Murphy pointlessly "rapping" over the track "Waiting". Supposedly asking the question did "Dre" have sex with Madonna. Apparently it was a joke started by betts talking over the track while waiting for Madonna to arrive. Pointless and not worthy of an album cut or any cut at all. Madonna sometimes made me laugh, this isn't one of those times. Just plain embarrassing.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SECRET GARDEN</span> - A really great song, jazzy, poppy and still ahving that deep house trip hop style. A spoken vocal which sounds very poetic and a lovely cool chorus. Thankfully this track ends the album and forgets the previous track quickly!</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijlJ2ZwN0RhnviL04Fm5TbZiS5LsXc1etAoNkOa_2Bm2d3DidtOGhg1nCdeQNFLnQfj4AO834fONoM2PrDdAiwh0bbs1LFmyxIJ6E9uZXD081Svqh6orWQ68gk2BtWSIZU1n-y5jMwRwhoGBLp8YJFUKoOIJoNcj_HFXHRUEjovics0tlSLRzaER6Q=s600" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijlJ2ZwN0RhnviL04Fm5TbZiS5LsXc1etAoNkOa_2Bm2d3DidtOGhg1nCdeQNFLnQfj4AO834fONoM2PrDdAiwh0bbs1LFmyxIJ6E9uZXD081Svqh6orWQ68gk2BtWSIZU1n-y5jMwRwhoGBLp8YJFUKoOIJoNcj_HFXHRUEjovics0tlSLRzaER6Q=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"BEDTIME STORIES"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1994</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWrO8DQwto8faTsORG6d342gJ9xW200p0n5m7H0h6CUrW7NCKh1LwshI7yOAyAeCRvr7amgh84Ye6WvbAW1ffQiDzD3GjVvLmYuto29ungcOBdG_B4WY3xnqH7m6jWCxNhNj3LZR-B8U2sKrC7dpICPy1-Lb4lEnRRXsr4cCXzEYcRBfliMaTva9t/s2000/madonna7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1486" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWrO8DQwto8faTsORG6d342gJ9xW200p0n5m7H0h6CUrW7NCKh1Lws-hI7yOAyAeCRvr7amgh84Ye6WvbAW1ffQiDzD3GjVvLmYuto29ungcOBdG_B4WY3xnqH7m6jWCxNhNj3LZR-B8U2sKrC7dpICPy1-Lb4lEnRRXsr4cCXzEYcRBfliMaTva9t/s320/madonna7.jpg" width="238" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SURVIVAL</span> - After the somewhat controversial mixed surroundings of previous album "Erotica" and the "Sex" book and indeed the "Body Of Evidence" movie this sixth album is Madonna back to her best. This opening track is a Pop/R 'n B hybrid with almost Jazz-like undertones but with a cool simple beat and good harmonies and melody. A nice, chilled out smooth start.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SECRET</span> - One of my favourite Madonna tracks, an almost Acoustic styled track with Jazz leanings. The vocals are brilliant and showcased her voice without the aid of electronics, it was a more mature Madonna. I loved this style and it suited her, it has a slight funky beat but a great Pop song all round. This single reached number 5 in the UK chart as the lead track from the album.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EPHUZenprKc" width="320" youtube-src-id="EPHUZenprKc"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I'D RATHER BE YOUR LOVER</span> - Featuring rapper Meshell Ndegeocello on vocal rapping and bass, this is a repetitive but engaging funky Pop dance track. A decent track if not a great one.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DON'T STOP</span> - This track takes us back to the Dance diva Madonna of the first few albums. It's a cool, simple, bright track that although scant on lyrical merit is still a nice laid back track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">INSIDE OF ME</span> - This is apparently about her mother, its a sad, melancholic song with emotional vocals by Madonna over a mid tempo moody beat. Not one of my favourites to be honest, although the sentiment is nice it's a bit bare on quality.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HUMAN NATURE</span> - This track reached number 8 in the UK singles chart and is a throwback to the last album, "Erotica" and is like one of the better tracks on that album. Defiant lyrics saying she is not sorry about "talking about sex" and her "fantasies" stating that you should "express yourself" not "repress yourself". It's pumping dirty beat, and sometimes whispered vocals seemt to work with its Trip Hop, R 'n B style. A cool track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FORBIDDEN LOVE</span> - A beautifully sung song, emotional and smooth sounding with some great harmonised backing vocals including Babyface.. It is a nice laid back song with a great atmospheric backdrop.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE TRIED TO WELCOME ME</span> - A nice enough track but it fails to lift to another level for me. Its another smooth, sleazy backing with soft vocals that pretty good but together as a whole it kind of leaves me waiting for that oomph factor.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SANCTUARY</span> - An eerie sounding song reminiscent of the "Erotica" style. Maybe this track and "Human Nature" was getting that phase over with and moving on to a more mature sound. It's a mysterious track with lots of electronic whirrs and whistles and beeps but it's pretty basic fare and could be classed as filler.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BEDTIME STORY</span> - The song reached number 4 on the UK chart. Bjork was one of the writers which makes sense as its a weird, Electronic House styled track. Its other worldly vocals and harmonies and echoed backing make this an intriguing track. Maybe this was a forerunner to the next album, "Ray Of Light". Its a great song and a little different from anything Madonna has done before. Classy.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TAKE A BOW</span> - Another classic Madonna ballad that amazingly only reached number 16 on the UK chart. Its a beautifully sung song with very soulful vocals . This is just a fantastic song and one of Madonna's best in my view. Great to end the album on a high.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XDeiovnCv1o" width="320" youtube-src-id="XDeiovnCv1o"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjACHpRXnVkWeaP2gyiYUWxBlDz2Yc4XROv9z3KNqH9ONClD8xR2KfhTfbz9m57Mw6zoxtBhwotS2olJ-gX0Un2y4DHjQj7EoEs-DUocL2aA1s35wC3vRfH7vDIFshrDBWmiNKipp1bQ8MHPt6BFIsU2I1NJEtJGjv9hyIJabCxzsrXsoEJb6P4xiXf=s602" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjACHpRXnVkWeaP2gyiYUWxBlDz2Yc4XROv9z3KNqH9ONClD8xR2KfhTfbz9m57Mw6zoxtBhwotS2olJ-gX0Un2y4DHjQj7EoEs-DUocL2aA1s35wC3vRfH7vDIFshrDBWmiNKipp1bQ8MHPt6BFIsU2I1NJEtJGjv9hyIJabCxzsrXsoEJb6P4xiXf=s320" width="319" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"RAY OF LIGHT"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1998</b></span></span><b> <br /></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIIGUdwO0e88_JU2qZXuJWdT9k4B4vaFnn_n--ZkWFIPh_7PP1BkbCYTdGSCss9ixh7QATbXgN5yZYVCoDwtOYCFvdjRLdQsAacNxDehZCJeKqnvlf_eSu0QJpzdSXuDG4zraGaFt7uaK2PFqyBs0IS-o8cm2ullEWWwPpt_ilguaHVuUMYU8QQRw/s695/madonna3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIIGUdwO0e88_JU2qZXuJWdT9k4B4vaFnn_n--ZkWFIPh_7PP1BkbCYTdGSCss9ixh7QATbXgN5yZYVCoDwtOYCFvdjRLdQsAacNxDehZCJeKqnvlf_eSu0QJpzdSXuDG4zraGaFt7uaK2PFqyBs0IS-o8cm2ullEWWwPpt_ilguaHVuUMYU8QQRw/s320/madonna3.jpg" width="253" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DROWNED WORLD/SUBSTITUTE FOR LOVE</span> - This opening track on Madonna's 7th studio album reached number 10 on the UK singles chart. The album as a whole has a much fuller pure vocal from Madonna and this song has a very eclectic mash up of sounds. There is a little Trip Hop, Pop and Techno hints while keeping the beautiful melodious backing keeping a mysterious ambient air. <b> </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SWIM</span> - A very open Trip Hop style similar to Morcheeba with some great vocal changes happening through the song, another great melody and some nice Acoustic guiitars too. The production on this album is superb, in headphones you can hear every little sound spinning around your head. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RAY OF LIGHT</span> - The title track and a Madonna classic, although very different from her 80s Disco tracks. This is a brilliant frenetic Pop, Club, Disco, Rock, Electronica crossover. Should have been number 1 but reached number 2 in the UK chart. Love this track and a real favourite of mine.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x3ov9USxVxY" width="320" youtube-src-id="x3ov9USxVxY"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CANDY PERFUME GIRL</span> - Written with William Orbit and Susannah Melvoin (sister of Wendy from The Revolution and Wendy and Lisa). A superb medium paced Electronic Rock/Techno hybrid. Another gem from this album.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SKIN</span> - A fast paced Synth Pop styled track with a little Techno and Trip Hop added. Reminds me a little of Kraftwerk and New Order combined. A really cool track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">NOTHING REALLY MATTERS</span> - The intro reminds me of "Frozen", a very passionate and emotional vocal over a mystical, minimal electronic backing. Then it kicks in to a quicker tempo and an Electronic Dance track. It is not one of my favourites but it reached number 7 in the UK chart. Something is missing for me but its still a good song but not on a par with the previous 5 tracks.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SKY FITS HEAVEN</span> - A more moodier version of "Ray Of Light", a pulsating, throbbing beat with various electronic sounds making it an engaging song. It is like Madonna is singing a real Pop song in front of this Techno style beat. Normally this would be a bad idea but this works, a good experimental track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SHANTI/ASHTANGI</span> - Adapted from text by Shankaracharya, taken from the Yoga Taravali, this Asian inspired track is like a funky mantra. A pounding beat with various vocal chants interspersed with Madonna's reading of text. Unusual but still very cool, the last time I heard an Asian inspired Pop song was Monsoon's "Ever So Lonely"!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FROZEN</span> - This was Madonna's first single since 1990's "Vogue" to hit top spot in the UK. Well deserved, it is a beautifully sung atmospheric Ambient/Electronica ballad. It is mystical, sombre and uplifting in large amounts. A Madonna classic and another of my favourites.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XS088Opj9o0" width="320" youtube-src-id="XS088Opj9o0"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE POWER OF GOOD-BYE</span> - Reaching number 6 in the UK singles chart this great melancholic Electronica ballad has Madonna in top form again. Both this and "Frozen" showcase Madonna's singing voice that had been much maligned in the early days. Since playing Eva Peron in "Evita" and having those singing lessons her voice became more awesome. This should have elevated her to more mature audiences in the future but she has regressed a little.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TO HAVE AND NOT TO HOLD</span> - This track has nice moments but this slow tempo electronic fails to grab me. It is a bit slow going and doesn't lift up much throughout apart from the occasional vocal "ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba" that changes the mood for a brief second. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LITTLE STAR</span> - This song is about daughter Lourdes and Madonna gives everything vocally, there is a passion and emotion in her lyrics and a love. A really nice, relaxing and uplifitng listen. The Electronic Techno backing is minimal and allows Madonna's vocals to lead the song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MER GIRL</span> - Another beautiful song, with Madonna's vocals at the fore carrying the track. The very slight orchestrated Electronica backing makes it almost Acoustic and the sound is mysterious, sensual and light. Great end to a fine album. </p><p style="text-align: left;"> </p></div><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBASk1ECDfH1ziqV1xCEsmchkm5NH4vH-5QeqPJ06ooZZIsrstcQLnmlhtzPICteKKMZuKIgcT3yGBoE0inj4E_gW8TBKFNlMpZbMaMiClOuqy8Yu2hinlnf66WfXx9sWaM0GcTpk1QcVu8bylckSQLpUzpnCs7FuioofKnNluj6LpgdV0VHkwFLlA/s1060/MADONNA%20MUSIC.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1038" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBASk1ECDfH1ziqV1xCEsmchkm5NH4vH-5QeqPJ06ooZZIsrstcQLnmlhtzPICteKKMZuKIgcT3yGBoE0inj4E_gW8TBKFNlMpZbMaMiClOuqy8Yu2hinlnf66WfXx9sWaM0GcTpk1QcVu8bylckSQLpUzpnCs7FuioofKnNluj6LpgdV0VHkwFLlA/s320/MADONNA%20MUSIC.jpg" width="313" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"> "MUSIC"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2000</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwtnE-uvXhQXCtB3aqZW9-Q1AIQJx5kC8bAisa9lA9nPu3DzxRCvmnDLgDiHUki-0HcMjCB8mfb3FeqKO0CS4vic8T8dvjueTxo_geT4wtVqfpXeKkhP5qWv7PGD3zC8jQj2IedCac2_rMnG0Zkk8mOWr-vKV6EKa2frsMWGBlGqL1c-wQFd7bauER/s994/madonna8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="994" data-original-width="774" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwtnE-uvXhQXCtB3aqZW9-Q1AIQJx5kC8bAisa9lA9nPu3DzxRCvmnDLgDiHUki-0HcMjCB8mfb3FeqKO0CS4vic8T8dvjueTxo_geT4wtVqfpXeKkhP5qWv7PGD3zC8jQj2IedCac2_rMnG0Zkk8mOWr-vKV6EKa2frsMWGBlGqL1c-wQFd7bauER/s320/madonna8.jpg" width="249" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">MUSIC</span> - </b>Madonna's eighth album for me, is her last really great album in my opinion. This opening track was released as the second single form the album following "American Pie" (which was later added to certain versions of the album) and reached the accustomed number 1 spot in the UK chart once again. A supercharged Pop track mixing Funk, Electronica, Dance and Disco it is one of Madonna's best tracks. Featuring the infamous "Ali G" in the video it was a hit all over the globe.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Sdz2oW0NMFk" width="320" youtube-src-id="Sdz2oW0NMFk"></iframe></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">IMPRESSIVE INSTANT</span> - </b>Not one of my favourites, a bit too many effects and the vocoder vocals for me. It is a mishmash of Electro Funk and Pop and doesn't really grab the listener either lyrically or musically.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">RUNAWAY LOVER</span> - </b>A frenetic William Orbit co-written and produced track that has potential, the chorus could be catchier if the backing wasn't so overpowering, it becomes an instrumental drum and bass track with vocals way back in the mix. Frustrating track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">I DESERVE IT</span> - </b>A slice of slow and lush Morcheeba style Trip Hop where Madonna uses her emotional vocal techniques she learned all those years ago filming "Evita" which graced tracks such as "Secret" and "Frozen". This song is one of my favourites.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">AMAZING </span>- </b>A track similar in style to "Beautiful Stranger", this is a great uplifting, almost funky track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">NOBODY'S PERFECT</span> - </b>The vocoder is back and again it makes the song even more dreary than it already is. This track slumbers on at a slow, eerie pace and it sounds like an experimental disaster.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">DON'T TELL ME</span> - </b>Back to the good stuff, this single reached number 4 in the UK chart. A great Trip Hop slow ballad with a genius sprinkling of Country Pop. Brilliant song.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gLFWRDsx5AI" width="320" youtube-src-id="gLFWRDsx5AI"></iframe></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHAT IT FEELS LIKE FOR A GIRL</span> - </b>Reaching number 7 in the UK chart this track one of the most mature sounding songs she has recorded (until this album). Beautiful vocals and a really summery, wistful light ballad. A little Electronica and Trip Hop hybrid that works superbly.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">PARADISE (NOT FOR ME)</span> - </b>Atmospheric, eerie sounding kind of early Synth Pop, it grows on you after a few listens but its a very moody track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">GONE</span> - </b>A really lovely Pop track similar to a couple of tracks on "Bedtime Stories". It almost has a jazzy swing feel to it. A steady slow backbeat with snippets of Acoustic guitar give it a really nice laid back feel.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">AMERICAN PIE</span> - </b>A cover of Don McLean's classic, rated by himself as a "gift from a goddess". This version has a hint of Dance, Pop and Electronica but still does the original justice in the vocals. Superb end to the album (although this track was only added to some versions!).<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQK9hicaublLuwoGQVLUds4VZh2Aw8z-p65tkK3xAoCfIesfefAWMH4pT_0rzGYDvAZJQx_rSjz4QKjQRuhTr7lnmv0zupUhRWG1bHP3HZVbAfB-0W5dvh1ipqHnfLx_a6CxDGOgmunCNoXNj-ccoLpaSOo5bagZkvxuRehQI0VQ6-eSNcXQHS_pX5GKQ/s640/MADONNA%20AMERICAN%20LIFE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQK9hicaublLuwoGQVLUds4VZh2Aw8z-p65tkK3xAoCfIesfefAWMH4pT_0rzGYDvAZJQx_rSjz4QKjQRuhTr7lnmv0zupUhRWG1bHP3HZVbAfB-0W5dvh1ipqHnfLx_a6CxDGOgmunCNoXNj-ccoLpaSOo5bagZkvxuRehQI0VQ6-eSNcXQHS_pX5GKQ/s320/MADONNA%20AMERICAN%20LIFE.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">"AMERICAN LIFE"</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">2003</span> </b><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgudNZPev6tvIGu-9YqACS2pmK2-9nOJmqi5NKuFJvNiYOdzOPbkSAAm_6E874qB4RJahW8dYk7IHdnZV_eVDuqBes9kdvxBVfGYjF-e6bdYycB9neXvQ364EqwWzLawLZEL1SRS9tkpeqwBm5nxrsXF-8SIw4dpVlyfQyMJUIcguByQLnTxJUDYK28w1U/s726/madonna9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgudNZPev6tvIGu-9YqACS2pmK2-9nOJmqi5NKuFJvNiYOdzOPbkSAAm_6E874qB4RJahW8dYk7IHdnZV_eVDuqBes9kdvxBVfGYjF-e6bdYycB9neXvQ364EqwWzLawLZEL1SRS9tkpeqwBm5nxrsXF-8SIw4dpVlyfQyMJUIcguByQLnTxJUDYK28w1U/s320/madonna9.jpg" width="242" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">AMERICAN LIFE</span> - The opening track of Madonna's 9th studio album is an experimental mix of Electronica, Techno and Pop. As the lead single it reached number 2 in the UK chart. In my opinion not one of her greatest singles as it meanders along at times. It says something when her rap at the end is the highlight!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HOLLYWOOD</span> - The second single from the album reached the number 2 spot like the previous track. This is a cool track, a little Psychedelic and with a Folk feel. Also a little funky its much better than the opening track.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uaNLvjCkYDE" width="320" youtube-src-id="uaNLvjCkYDE"></iframe></div> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I'M SO STUPID</span> - This is like a Grunge/Electronica hybrid that really doesn't go anywhere for me. A definite filler, I am not sure what it is supposed to accomplish otherwise.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE PROFUSION</span> - An Electronica/Folk mix was the final single from the album and by Madonna's high standards reached a lowly number 11 in the UK chart. For me it is the best single from this set, its got a nice vibe to it and an atmospheric ambience.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YUtvUFsPA6Y" width="320" youtube-src-id="YUtvUFsPA6Y"></iframe></div> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">NOBODY KNOWS ME</span> - Not really a fan of the vocoder effects, this is like something Britney Spears has resorted to in her "comeback" years. A Dance song but nowhere near a Madonna classic. Not a favourite of mine.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">NOTHING FAILS</span> - A track that reminds me of the "Music" album. A Pop song with great vocals and a slight Country twang. Best track so far on this collection.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">INTERVENTION</span> - Another Electronica and Techno mix that has a more Acoustic style. Lovely vocals and a track similar to the "Bedtime Stories" album. Straight up Pop and a rare gem here.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">X-STATIC PROCESS</span> - Like the last two tracks this is another beautiful ballad with an Acoustic feel. These tracks lifted the album after a mediocre start.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MOTHER AND FATHER</span> - A track that has its moments as the vocals give off a nice mysterious ambience. The Electronic effects and beats demolish the vibe. Could have been better, this time the spoken "rap" did not help the song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DIE ANOTHER DAY</span> - The James Bond theme to the movie of the same name. To be honest, not one of the best Madonna songs or Bond themes. This still reached number 3 in the UK chart despite it being pretty poor standard.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">EASY RIDE</span> - This is a nice, mysterious, melancholic song to end the album. One of the better tracks on this set but it seems there are more low standard tracks on Madonna albums now than classics.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-43285486078798867312023-11-05T14:55:00.001+00:002023-11-05T14:55:32.778+00:00SUGABABES - 2000 (1 ALBUM)<div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimH_VlvOUpgiIA5jClnOjxg2BWk96HE7LBzfShpoU-U7fd98x0Z5JT-XbluUriMUu-7azuXPvX6xv7nsrGy3WCsGf-yp-cjdj6raunZ8VNwosk3hzAlasc-VvDbxN2QqfDlzKI9Zg3CroqA8_IrPPuxxPAguGaWJYncynExfQgXixy5xNfGTSi2AaN/s500/sugababes%20one%20touch.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="500" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimH_VlvOUpgiIA5jClnOjxg2BWk96HE7LBzfShpoU-U7fd98x0Z5JT-XbluUriMUu-7azuXPvX6xv7nsrGy3WCsGf-yp-cjdj6raunZ8VNwosk3hzAlasc-VvDbxN2QqfDlzKI9Zg3CroqA8_IrPPuxxPAguGaWJYncynExfQgXixy5xNfGTSi2AaN/s320/sugababes%20one%20touch.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> <span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"ONE TOUCH"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2000</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCw7Z-dl4_ctREUTmeDgH_IlzLrVs4JZRxYV4omgTdDBGMFhwTgEaAaLs-JACjsHD35ymo20ejTeZ83fXl2ZJqZsF5WXpj4MfSs1KUR7cJE4xqJZnuhlyuoHA4OfvlF4CZT7v0BXjTOfxD-rFIFL2H7b2lAR7F9Ut0BvKOTjrAVAuxa-TDC7DnrcPy/s796/sugababes1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="796" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCw7Z-dl4_ctREUTmeDgH_IlzLrVs4JZRxYV4omgTdDBGMFhwTgEaAaLs-JACjsHD35ymo20ejTeZ83fXl2ZJqZsF5WXpj4MfSs1KUR7cJE4xqJZnuhlyuoHA4OfvlF4CZT7v0BXjTOfxD-rFIFL2H7b2lAR7F9Ut0BvKOTjrAVAuxa-TDC7DnrcPy/s320/sugababes1.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">OVERLOAD</span> - </b>This debut album recored by the original three members as teenagers, was a brilliant first set. This opening track was smooth, R 'n B/Funk with a throbbing steady drumbeat and some almost lazy, but engaging vocals. The single reached number 6 in the UK chart and was a storming introduction to the girl group's career, as powerful an ear opener as Spice Girls' "Wannabe".</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eVG4Ix9GgFg" width="320" youtube-src-id="eVG4Ix9GgFg"></iframe></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">ONE FOOT IN</span> - </b>This song is pretty much a straight forward 90s style Pop song in the vein of Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera in their fledgling days. A very accomplished track although a comedown from the opening track, it still has merit.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">SAME OLD STORY</span> - </b>Another very smooth and mature track that you would believe it from Destiny's Child or maybe TLC not by 3 teenage girls. This is a cool funky song with some really nice harmonies.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">JUST LET IT GO</span> - </b>Again a song that the previous aforementioned seasoned girl groups would be proud of. It's a soulful, mid tempo R n' B ballad that roams along nicely, although not one of my favourites.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOOK AT ME</span> - </b>A track that could be listed as "filler" for me. It's one of those Britney-esque songs that doesn't really go anywhere or shine brightly. As a new young group they probably were not going to give a perfect album as their debut so some songs may slip through like this. <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">SOUL SOUND</span> - </b>This is a really lovely slow, funky track with some gorgeous vocals and harmonies. It is a light, breezy song that is really uplifting and has a slight 90s Pop Rock feel guitar. Only reaching number 30 on the UK chart as the album's fourth single.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">ONE TOUCH</span> - </b>A song that is a lure, lush Pop ballad that Spice Girls would have loved to have in their repertoire. Nice laid back song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">LUSH LIFE</span> - </b>A mid paced R n' B song that has a few little electronic effects thrown in for good measure. Reminds me of Madonna at times, a relaxing track with an almost Trip Hop element.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">REAL THING</span> - </b>This track reminds me of early Janet Jackson, its a pleasant run of the mill R n' B song but nothing really grabs you. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">NEW YEAR</span> - </b>Reaching number 12 in the UK chart as the album's second single this is a great song. Mixing Pop, R n' B, Soul and lovely melodic harmonising by the girls.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">PROMISES</span> - </b>The Synth Pop style of the backing and the girls harmonies and slight, unique offkey vocals make this another great song. Strangely catchy in an eeerie kind of way. Good track though.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">RUN FOR COVER</span> - </b>Another track that reminds me of Madonna, and second only to "Overload" as the best tracks on the album. The orchestral sounds and minimal beats complement the heartfelt vocals. Class.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AA85-bQtDuk" width="320" youtube-src-id="AA85-bQtDuk"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"> </p><p style="text-align: left;"> <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-82892095442068067422023-11-05T14:55:00.000+00:002023-11-05T14:55:16.879+00:00SIMON & GARFUNKEL - 1966 (1 ALBUM)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"PARSLEY, SAGE, ROSEMARY AND THYME"</b></span></span></div>
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PATTERNS </span>- A Folk song with hints of Progressive Rock and a kind of tribal drumbeat and sounding like a native Indian old style camp fire number.</div>
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CLOUDY</span> - This is a really nice, easy going track with a little Psychedelic snippets but mainly a Pop Folk style.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">HOMEWARD BOUND</span> - Another of my favourite tracks. A more upbeat Folk Rock track, with melancholy lyrics as Paul Simon misses his new found love waiting at a Railway station in Widnes, Cheshire. Top track.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/m0oJ8_VTu3c/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m0oJ8_VTu3c?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe> <br /></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE BIG BRIGHT GREEN PLEASURE MACHINE</span> - Reminds me a little of The Monkees. More upbeat than the previous tracks. A chirpy, bright and breezy 60s style hippie track.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE 59TH BRIDGE STREET SONG (FEELIN' GROOVY)</span> - Another fabulous composition. Less than 1 minute 45 seconds long but its a cool little Folk Rock number which I wanted to carry on a little more. Its upbeat and makes you feel groovy!</div>
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THE DANGLING CONVERSATION</span> - An atmospheric orchestral Folk song which is nice but doesn't give that memorable style of the previous tracks to hold my attention. It is nice enough and laid back but lacks a little something to make it great.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">FLOWERS NEVER BEND WITH THE RAINFALL</span> - A track that typifies Simon & Garfunkel, soft, melodious and a with a slight uptempo musical backing while the lyrics are sung slower. Touch of class.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">A SIMPLE DESULTORY PHILIPPIC (OR HOW I WAS ROBERT MCNAMARA'D INTO SUBMISSION)</span> - Allegedly a parody of Bob Dylan's writing style. A Folk Rock upbeat track sounding very Dylan-esque. With that off key singing style and using many different famous names as verbs such as "I've been Mick Jagger'd"! Humorous and hippie style Folk at its best.</div>
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FOR EMILY, WHENEVER I MAY FIND HER</span> - Pop styled Folk track sung solely by Art Garfunkel. Great emotive love song.</div>
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A POEM ON THE UNDERGROUND WALL</span> - A little of everything in this track, Folk, Progressive Rock and a little psychedelia with spoken parts.</div>
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7 O'CLOCK NEWS/SILENT NIGHT </span>- An experimental and strange end to the album. A sweet version of the classic Christmas carol "Silent Night" is interspersed and gradually taken over by a simulated news bulletin of various events including Lenny Bruce's death and news of Martin Luther King Jr. and Richard Nixon. Eerie but interesting!</div>
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<b> </b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-9701647269459264432023-11-03T15:59:00.000+00:002023-11-03T15:59:12.545+00:00OLIVIA RODRIGO - 2021 - 2023 (2 ALBUMS)<p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3cI1zEJVpRc/YX6vPgSo85I/AAAAAAAAEQs/pT0i-TbJGlsXISbwvViIuZmVH3QAIyjbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/olivia%2Brodrigo%2Bsour712U0PCvjES._SL1200_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3cI1zEJVpRc/YX6vPgSo85I/AAAAAAAAEQs/pT0i-TbJGlsXISbwvViIuZmVH3QAIyjbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/olivia%2Brodrigo%2Bsour712U0PCvjES._SL1200_.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b> "SOUR"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2021</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDmZadt2NyAYVFwfhUKlu4EoETpu2DaB2DLaqWRiBdlYDN0i1GO50UcywRinHYgApCNOrzzNbksme0gDU6nkWRn7hxUJPQ3sHizuQmwjI6aFqWctSjO0HpIVoMO5GKnxKY8kklkNDBKkSzyGGXGuKqJJCz-dPnQYuUvEMF9934cxn_lHvfQ64aagj/s810/3b984d3e42b8e3424bf30541a581a5d6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDmZadt2NyAYVFwfhUKlu4EoETpu2DaB2DLaqWRiBdlYDN0i1GO50UcywRinHYgApCNOrzzNbksme0gDU6nkWRn7hxUJPQ3sHizuQmwjI6aFqWctSjO0HpIVoMO5GKnxKY8kklkNDBKkSzyGGXGuKqJJCz-dPnQYuUvEMF9934cxn_lHvfQ64aagj/s320/3b984d3e42b8e3424bf30541a581a5d6.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BRUTAL</span> -<b> </b>Olivia Rodrigo's debut album opens with a scorching 90s Brit Pop Punk track, reminding me of Elastica and Sleeper in its female angst ridden vocals. It also has me thinking of Wendy James and Transvision Vamp in its brash style. The former Disney star shows she has left that way behind with great Indie Pop Rock album with a few expletives thrown in for good Punk measure!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TRAITOR</span> - A slowed down tempo for this track, a beautiful, soft and melancholy Indie Rock track similar to Avril Lavigne in style with maybe a little nod to Kate Bush or Tori Amos in the atmospheric vocals? Love this track. Reached number 5 in the UK chart.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DRIVER'S LICENSE</span> - Perrfect Pop break-up ballad, Taylor Swift, Sophie B.Hawkins and Michelle Branch spring to mind on listening to this. Beautiful heartfelt vocals over a sparse, orchestrated style moody backing. Really nice and accomplished composition from 18 yr old Olivia and her debut single. This first outing also gave her a first number 1 in the UK.<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZmDBbnmKpqQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="ZmDBbnmKpqQ"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">1 STEP FORWARD, 3 STEPS BACK</span> - Another gorgeous soft ballad which does remind me clearly of one of my favourite artists, Tori Amos, in its breathy, pure sounding vocal style. I do hope Olivia keeps this cool, Indie style for future releases and doesn't get on the Pop princess bandwagon. This girl is going places.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DEJA VU</span> - This track is a cool mix of styles, its a little R n' B, Soul, Industrial Rock, Pop and probably more I have missed. Reaching number 4 in the UK chart it is a very creative, clever and interesting composition. Another extraordinary song from this lady.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">GOOD 4 U</span> - I caught this track on a new music channel on the Roku streaming stick! I had to check this girl out and found this album to review. Absolutely love this track, its bouncy, rocky and has a great Punk attitude like the previously mentioned Avril Lavigne and Amy Studt. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gNi_6U5Pm_o" width="320" youtube-src-id="gNi_6U5Pm_o"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ENOUGH FOR YOU</span> - Olivia's sweet and pure vocals take centre stage once again in another Tori Amos styled track. This is a really lovely song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HAPPIER</span> - Similar in vein to the previous track, another emotional and passionate vocal at the forefront of a sparse, moody backing track. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">JEALOUSY, JEALOUSY</span> - A change in style, this is a pretty funky Indie Pop track, this actually reminds me of Wendy and Lisa of The Revolution. Its got just enough quirkiness and angst to push it to greater heights. I really love this track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FAVORITE CRIME</span> - This is an atmospheric almost Soul/R n 'B track, similar to Christina Aguilera or Beyonce. Probably the most poppy song on an album full of Indie delights.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HOPE UR OK</span> - The final track is a little soft vocal Indie Rock akin to Tori Amos or PJ Harvey. A nice end to a really mature sounding debut.</p><p style="text-align: left;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNKGD3lr3YCxzbWgyoExqXY6PQT2r7PTiMpVM3TBbeNzVBi2-YnawAjOWClSvuw0E8l-iXl_HF2lj3b9kUSz8J3kam3C9uKmL75lYh_-4vLqwu1wfqZlFaB5-kSxF8MFAWyxoyeesw2T2kYm5taXbaH55IIf5ZxBLta7XWUN8rB9laTPZRdXbpKv28P8s/s1000/olivia%20rodrigo%20guts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="992" data-original-width="1000" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNKGD3lr3YCxzbWgyoExqXY6PQT2r7PTiMpVM3TBbeNzVBi2-YnawAjOWClSvuw0E8l-iXl_HF2lj3b9kUSz8J3kam3C9uKmL75lYh_-4vLqwu1wfqZlFaB5-kSxF8MFAWyxoyeesw2T2kYm5taXbaH55IIf5ZxBLta7XWUN8rB9laTPZRdXbpKv28P8s/s320/olivia%20rodrigo%20guts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">"GUTS"</span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">2023 </b><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5P4l8tbPJgAfWsM0qCdDe_joAltDcTZddVprxPyEdpFGP5Z83vxvORySO6saFCA6z2Xd8TWqXficxAEEMMxmG4jXAQe0-sL6p6JWkQGBJqmWl9VcLAqrYB2bF9D70Ve9YZOzzIP5FX7axQuYztkHCKxzVtdZilZ698nhesRAb4hxE9tcevRxhefmBgWE/s1500/oliviarodrigo2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5P4l8tbPJgAfWsM0qCdDe_joAltDcTZddVprxPyEdpFGP5Z83vxvORySO6saFCA6z2Xd8TWqXficxAEEMMxmG4jXAQe0-sL6p6JWkQGBJqmWl9VcLAqrYB2bF9D70Ve9YZOzzIP5FX7axQuYztkHCKxzVtdZilZ698nhesRAb4hxE9tcevRxhefmBgWE/s320/oliviarodrigo2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ALL-AMERICAN BITCH</span> - Brilliant opener to this second album by Olivia. A little 60s sweet hippie vocals keeps turning into an angry Avril Lavigne/Blink 182 Punk Pop track. Love this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BAD IDEA RIGHT?</span> - The second single from this set reached number 3 in the UK chart. A great mix of Grunge, Punk Pop and a little B-52s! Another instant favourite.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">VAMPIRE</span> - The lead single from this album reached number 1 in the UK chart. Fine Pop Rock tune driven by a piano picking up pace midway through the song giving it a late70s/early 80s vibe. Superb vocals from Olivia.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RlPNh_PBZb4" width="320" youtube-src-id="RlPNh_PBZb4"></iframe></div><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LACY</span> - This song has a breathy, sultry voval reminiscent of Tori Amos. A really nice, melancholic song.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BALLAD OF A HOMESCHOOLED GIRL</span> - This is a fun, quirky track that is a little like Aril Lavigne once again but with a kick of Punk and 90s Grunge and BritPop. Olivia has so many musical faces, a great attribute.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MAKING THE BED</span> - Atmospheric Alternative Pop Rock ballad in the vein of Sarah McLachlan. Lovely song.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOGICAL</span> - This track reminds me of Simon and Garfunkel with beautiful vocals in a 60s Folk kind of style.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">GET HIM BACK!</span> - This is a 90s style BritPop track akin to the great female fronted bands of that time, Elastica, Sleeper, Kenickie etc. Another gem that reached number 7 in the UK chart as the album's 3rd single.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZsJ-BHohXRI" width="320" youtube-src-id="ZsJ-BHohXRI"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE IS EMBARRASSING</span> - Tuneful and melodic Pop Rock in a similar take to Snow Patrol and maybe Keane with the big crecendo chorus.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE GRUDGE</span> - A really lovely softly spoken and sung ballad that I would again link Tori Amos to as an influence. Great song.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PRETTY ISN'T PRETTY</span> - This Indie Pop track reminds me a little of The Cure with the music, maybe its a little Goth sounding too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TEENAGE
DREAM</span> - A slow ending to the album with this lush piano ballad with a
big anthemic finish. On the whole an awesome second album following the
massive debut "Sour"</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-19550635193038643052023-10-28T14:14:00.001+00:002023-10-28T14:14:35.867+00:00ONOFF - 2017 (1 ALBUM)<div style="text-align: center;">
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HAYLEY</span> - A throbbing drumbeat reminding me of Iggy Pop, with vocals from lead singer "Paulie" sounding very much like Fall Out Boy's Patrick Stump. A frenetic pace continues throughout the song with slight hints to Foo Fighters and snippets of Classic Rock. A little funky Rock Red Hot Chili Peppers and Queens Of The Stone Age influences too I suspect too. Brilliant track with super guitar solos.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/iJ7MJR9GGWo/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iJ7MJR9GGWo?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>
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INNOCENCE</span> - New Wave Punk, sounding a little like Goo Goo Dolls. Well crafted track that is becoming a favourite of mine since hearing it. Melodious and emotive enough to grab you by the ears with a bang. The chorus reminded me of the UK Indie Rock band Turin Brakes, also has little hints of 90s Grunge. Has a slightly unusual, quirky last few seconds, that's all I will say!</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">DON'T LOOK SURPRISED </span>- Almost 80s style Pop Rock base tune with some heavier Rock N' Roll moments. Some beautiful bright and breezy guitars on this track. The song reminds me of one of my favourite bands, Stereophonics. A really cool rocker, top stuff.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">WORK IT OUT</span> - Classic Rock meets Progressive Rock. Sweet little guitar riffs merge with a driving drumbeat. The ending of the song has a superb crescendo of early 70s style Rock!</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">LEAVE IN THE MORNIN'</span> - Medium paced Grunge style Rock track. Its moody backing track links with the melancholic, downbeat nature of the song nicely. More Hendrix style guitar riffs take it to the end in style. Also reminds me of "TV Dinners" by ZZ Top with its intentional meandering pace. </div>
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A LOVE LIKE THIS</span> - New Wave Punk with slight Pop Rock elements. Probably the most radio friendly track on the album. It is catchy, its got a steady pace and a harmonious tease to less heavier Rock sound based ears!. Similar to The Calling and Goo Goo Dolls, cracking tune.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">BACK SEAT LOVER</span> - An almost heavy Blues Glam Rock track. This is such a fabulous track. a little Punk style remains in the form of The Ramones but also the Rock and Roll Glam of The Sweet and Marc Bolan. </div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">TINY HOUSE</span> - New Wave Pop Rock track that is a little less heavy than some tracks here and has that anthemic, atmospheric feel. Its mid tempo pace and more focus on the vocals allow the portrayal of emotion. Really nice track, definitely some Fall Out Boy influence here. Its a great ballad with a memorable chorus. Has to be my favourite track on the album along with "Hayley".</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">TIME TO TO LET IT GO</span> - A spoken intro says "I am a human being god damn it, my life has value". This Electric Punk track has a lot of experimental feel about it. Red Hot Chili Peppers spring to mind when hearing this. It has a little Funk, some awesome Rock guitars and various interspersed spoken and angry vocals. Pretty much this album in a one song recap. Great end to an accomplished second set by a band you need to hear now!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-67951305480551875882023-10-28T14:14:00.000+00:002023-10-28T14:14:15.565+00:00LYNX DELUXE - 2021 (1 ALBUM)<p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-Csjn5lG23AET6rG2BZkYcSqER6W9ZrSg2lP6Zn_EtbKKyHZlsOFhXR54zm2MJ1x0Z4xcboKiQrR13dbNVOGr13x1EGsAcXPTZejLhMOYwjvaS8LiJuADPQUC5rFqkpfKekG3Uxsphn-xczdgEfXXF0iPkLdC-Si7i7B-QMHmTG-23vWT49_RweW/s640/lynx%20deluxe%20jungleland.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-Csjn5lG23AET6rG2BZkYcSqER6W9ZrSg2lP6Zn_EtbKKyHZlsOFhXR54zm2MJ1x0Z4xcboKiQrR13dbNVOGr13x1EGsAcXPTZejLhMOYwjvaS8LiJuADPQUC5rFqkpfKekG3Uxsphn-xczdgEfXXF0iPkLdC-Si7i7B-QMHmTG-23vWT49_RweW/s320/lynx%20deluxe%20jungleland.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"> "JUNGLELAND"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2021</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfQn7UOxwDZhZXFo2ojOpamE8ncodbePXJD8Hnb95SPVIV3lp3PV6c0_flxF0yM8VMbcg0wHuIk_cJJyubTQxSbAVLDAE-_TiqhpmKaA8xOLPFyPeOslx-xauLXYvNqnvKj5Mt7Nh7kdtqxeCxPJdyC031TuqGNE63DkWPhdWLP6n88XhJsPP8L18/s860/lynxdeluxe.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="860" data-original-width="860" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfQn7UOxwDZhZXFo2ojOpamE8ncodbePXJD8Hnb95SPVIV3lp3PV6c0_flxF0yM8VMbcg0wHuIk_cJJyubTQxSbAVLDAE-_TiqhpmKaA8xOLPFyPeOslx-xauLXYvNqnvKj5Mt7Nh7kdtqxeCxPJdyC031TuqGNE63DkWPhdWLP6n88XhJsPP8L18/s320/lynxdeluxe.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">JANE GOODALL</span> - The opening track is presumably about the renowned primatalogist and anthropologist noting the "queen of the jungle" reference. It's a booming Gothic/Punk hybrid with a pounding beat that conveys a "jungle" background to your ears. It's a plethora of sounds converging as one to make a cool first listen on this album.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I1auEwU4bac" width="320" youtube-src-id="I1auEwU4bac"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE STRUGGLE</span> - I love the relentless drums on this track and the accompaniments remind me of The Jam and The Clash if they played together. It has that almost funky rhythm with jangly guitars that were reminiscent of Bow Wow Wow (although with more "oomph") with some low toned and chanted vocals. Atmospheric at time, sounds really cool in earphones!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MERCY</span> - A nice slice of laid back bluesy Rock, a little like Van Morrison or Joe Cocker in style. Ticks along at a mid tempo pace with a great chorus and powerful Rock vocals.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oEVG8ULYsOk" width="320" youtube-src-id="oEVG8ULYsOk"></iframe> <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SAINTS</span> - This track is one of my favourites, a Rock track mixing Alternative, New Wave and Punk. The repeated chorus will have you singing this for hours after you hear it. Great stuff.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">A LITTLE PIECE OF ENGLAND</span> - A more minimal track with leading keys and brass and a distinct Jazz Rock feel. Nicely done and relaxing.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STEPPIN' ON GOLD</span> - A really nice, melancholic slow Classic Rock ballad with some great guitars here. Showing this band is not a one trick pony, they can mix it up a little.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BOMBSHELLS</span> - This is a myriad of sounds and styles but predominantly an Alternative/New Wave Rock Pop track. Another favourite of mine.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HIGHWIRE</span> - An almost Blues track with a hint of quirkiness, not sure if it reminds me of early Springsteen or a little B-52s. An easy going tune.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SHEILA'S GHOST</span> - The pace picks up again with this track, a soulful Pop Rock track with nods to Springsteen, Punk, Country and the pace reminded me of Deacon Blue on their album, "When The World Knows Your Name". Loving this track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WALKING AWAY FROM VEGAS</span> - An atmospheric track with a little Country, Gothic Rock and Blues. This band sure cannot be pigeonholed into one genre, they do it all and throw it all together to make a great unique sound!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">JULIETTE</span> - The album ends with a slow, sleazy Jazz Blues Rock track. Winds down a superb debut album nicely!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-82745848515687314462023-10-21T14:18:00.001+00:002023-10-21T14:18:21.620+00:00KATZENJAMMER - 2015 (1 ALBUM)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">CURVACEOUS NEEDS</span> - A quickstep tempo, a mixture of Folk, Pop, Soul and Blues. A fabulous foot tapper! A catchy chorus make this an irresistible slice of Scandinavian brilliance.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">OH MY GOD</span> - A very unusual track, its got distant Soul backing vocals at times but mostly a Punk style vocal backed by an uptempo Indie Folk. This is genius and an experimental masterpiece.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">LADY GREY</span> - A simply beautiful Pop Folk track, melancholic and emotive vocals and melodies. Reminds me a little of Susanna Hoffs and Bangles' tracks. Its got that 60s Pop Rock vibe.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">MY OWN TUNE</span> - This track is a quirky, upbeat track that has a little Latin Disco feel with a merging of Folk and there is also a Rap interlude with hints of Ska! Another gem.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/UFCaY57WWi4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UFCaY57WWi4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">SHINE LIKE NEON RAYS</span> - This is a New Wave Pop Rock track with a pumping electronic backing and 80s style vocals and chants and segments that remind me of The Cure's "Close To You". Class.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">DRIVING AFTER YOU</span> - A change in tempo, a moody, melancholic Blues Country track with a crescendo building vocal battle between lead and backing vocals. Superb.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">FLASH IN THE DARK</span> - Reminds me of a little Tori Amos or PJ Harvey, moody, angst ridden raw vocals against a minimal backing. Punky Folk Rock at its best.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">MY DEAR</span> - An upbeat, bouncy, quirky Pop Rock tune. Again has the elements of Irish style jig and various Folk segments. Its a good feeling song that will make you smile.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/G5Y3Ku1IeQw/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G5Y3Ku1IeQw?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">BAD GIRL</span> - An uptempo Blues and Country Folk track that kicks into a more rockier chorus and some fierce strings. </div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">ROCKLAND</span> - A very sweet, emotive ending ballad to a super album. Reminds me a little of Fleetwood Mac and mostly like 60s Folk duo Simon and Garfunkel with awesome harmonies and minimal musical backing. </div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-15716468232463056842023-10-21T14:10:00.001+00:002023-10-21T14:10:59.061+00:00THE POLICE - 1979 (1 ALBUM)<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1979</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">REGGATTA DE BLANC</span> - The title track is a mostly experimental instrumental Ska/Reggae/Rock crossover with various tribal chants by Sting. It is almost Punk sounding in parts too.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">IT'S ALRIGHT FOR YOU</span> - This is a punchy pumping Punk/Mod Rock hybrid based on a repetitive drumbeat and guitar riff. A foot tapper if nothing else.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">BRING ON THE NIGHT</span> - A New Wave/Reggae Pop track, it is quirky bu pretty unremarkable.</div>
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DEATHWISH</span> - A funky Ska based track that bounces along nicely until the drums kick up a beat at around the 2 minute mark to lift the track from obscurity.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">WALKING ON THE MOON</span> - The second Number One for the band in the UK, another familiar song on everyone's lips when they are asked to name a song by The Police. A midtempo Rock track with Reggae, Ska and almost Jazz styles incorporated just as most of the songs on the previous debut album. A classic.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zPwMdZOlPo8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zPwMdZOlPo8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">ON ANY OTHER DAY</span> - Drummer Stewart Copeland wrote this quirky, tongue in cheek track and sings lead vocals. Its Punk Rock raw style works. It sounds off the cuff and reminds me of Talking Heads or later They Might Be Giants. Interesting and good fun. </div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE BED'S TOO BIG WITHOUT YOU</span> - This is a straight up Reggae Pop track, its annoyingly repetitive at times but the music is highly engaging and relaxing.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">CONTACT </span>- This is a sci-fi sounding, moody track, probably one of the forebears for the later "Ghost In The Machine" and "Synchronicity" albums. The low key guitar riffs and light drums make it sound eerie. Love this track.</div>
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DOES EVERYONE STARE</span> - A quirky jazzy Pop track that details a person's insecurities in life. Another quirky and ironic track written by Copeland. </div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">NO TIME THIS TIME</span> - Elements of Ska, Pop, Rock and Reggae make this experimental-like jam. Pretty much a compilation of the tracks on this album in one song. great uptempo ending to the album.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-53081976731237559402023-10-14T14:55:00.001+00:002023-10-14T14:55:14.419+00:00THE KINKS - 1964 - 1967 (2 ALBUMS)<div style="text-align: center;">
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BEAUTIFUL DELILAH</span> - The Kinks' debut album opens with this Rock 'N Roll styled uptempo with a hint of funkiness and Country twang. A great cover of a Chuck Berry track.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span>
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SO MYSTIFYING</span> - A catchy Country Blues track with a memorable sing along chorus. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">JUST CAN'T GO TO SLEEP</span> - Sounds a little bit like The Beatles, a simple but steady Pop song. Not a big fan of The Beatles so not that much of a fan of this, average track at best.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LONG TALL SHORTY</span> - A rough, dark Blues track which hits the mark and has a great foot tapping style and is catchy enough to be cool.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IxuxxuETOHM" width="320" youtube-src-id="IxuxxuETOHM"></iframe></div><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I TOOK MY BABY HOME</span> - This Pop Blues track is reminiscent of Manfred Mann, really catchy and an uptempo driving musical backing. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I'M A LOVER NOT A FIGHTER</span> - A brilliant foot tapping Rock 'N Roll/Blues track, reminds me of some of Elvis Presley's early songs. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">YOU REALLY GOT ME</span> - The Kinks' back catalogue contains some classics and this is one of the most famous. Awesome Rock track and one of my favourite tracks of the '60s and all time. The only single released from this album and it reached the top spot in the UK chart.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aokmbKKWlOQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="aokmbKKWlOQ"></iframe></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CADILLAC</span> - Cover of a Bo Diddley track, a straight up Blues/Rock 'N Roll gem.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BALD HEADED WOMAN</span> - A minimal Traditional Blues track which has also been covered by The Who and Harry Belafonte among others. No frills just great Blues.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">REVENGE</span> - A short Blues instrumental driven by scorching harmonica, nice but short.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TOO MUCH MONKEY BUSINESS</span> - Another old style Rock 'N Roll cover of a Chuck Berry song, as you would expect, a bluesy feel and catchy chorus.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I'VE BEEN DRIVING ON BALD MOUNTAIN</span> - A pretty basic Blues track which finally picks up pace around the two minute mark but its not a favourite of mine.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STOP YOUR SOBBING</span> - I recognised this track from The Preteners' cover version in 1979. This is a more stripped back version but its still a great Pop song.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">GOT LOVE IF YOU WANT IT</span> - The album finishes with a somewhat experimental bluesy styled track with various lyrics way back in the mix but its dominated by the great harmonica again. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"SOMETHING ELSE BY THE KINKS"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1967</b></span></span><br />
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</span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMXnap0fwaH9I6fZKPZdc053MGMPlPI8wzPFQuNlgIqjvM2YRHa7MlhBPtIX3ls8al1ysAiuVS4ineI8426pNxMewhxY1K2V5agRT7xte5IYDRmDm52ACYQTljH7CBv1xP1R9-1q2ObxvdDqXHMOWyCIw9FLJCsDYAgctlGZ0WJL_wBgVpBs1rM9L/s500/TheKinks-500x388.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="500" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMXnap0fwaH9I6fZKPZdc053MGMPlPI8wzPFQuNlgIqjvM2YRHa7MlhBPtIX3ls8al1ysAiuVS4ineI8426pNxMewhxY1K2V5agRT7xte5IYDRmDm52ACYQTljH7CBv1xP1R9-1q2ObxvdDqXHMOWyCIw9FLJCsDYAgctlGZ0WJL_wBgVpBs1rM9L/s320/TheKinks-500x388.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DAVID WATTS</span> - The opening track on this fifth album by the band is a mix of 60s Pop with what sounds like early Glam Rock snippets. The lyrics sung by Ray Davies seem to lean towards admiration for a fellow popular schoolboy. Upbeat and cool intro to this album. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WhElCQLpCPo" width="320" youtube-src-id="WhElCQLpCPo"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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DEATH OF A CLOWN</span> - Named as "chamber Pop" this track is a kind of Folk Pop track with haunting "la la" chanted segments. Originally co-written by Ray Davies and his brother Dave (who released it as his first solo single). </div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">TWO SISTERS</span> - Harpsichord led laid back 60s Pop track, singing about two sisters Sybilla and Priscilla, both with contrasting personalities, similar to Kinks' brothers Ray and Dave! Nice song.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">NO RETURN</span> - An unusual minimal Acoustic style track with a kind of Bossa beat lightly drifting the song along. A little eerie and not one of my favourites but very experimental.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">HARRY RAG</span> - Classic Kinks, a bouncing marching drumbeat drives this quirky, humorous song with a catchy chorus.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">TIN SOLDIER MAN</span> - Another quirky classic Kinks track, this time orchestrated for extra oomph. A simple but catchy chorus yet again, this is what we expect from the band. Great song.</div>
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SITUATION VACANT</span> - A "bar room" jazzy Rock Pop with a hint of Country Blues guitar. Class.</div>
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LOVE ME 'TIL THE SUN SHINES</span> - Almost Progressive Rock and a little Psychedelia in this pure Rock track of the 60s. Dave takes lead vocals again on this song.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">LAZY OLD SUN</span> - Very weird, very experimental track with an assortment of sounds and minimal lazy vocals. Definitely a filler to this album.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">AFTERNOON TEA</span> - This is a bright and breezy laid back guitar based track with a simple chorus. Its a nice song but doesn't grab you until a few listens later.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">FUNNY FACE</span> - The last of Dave's vocal vehicles on this album is a Psychedelic, hippie style Pop Rock track with a hint of Classic Rock leanings.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">END OF THE SEASON</span> - An unusual switch in genres as this is in "crooner" territory, laid back musical based track.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">WATERLOO SUNSET</span> - One of the very best from The Kinks and one of my favourites. Acoustic and Electric guitars at the fore, some gorgeous melodies and harmonies in this nostalgia driven track. Sheer class 60s Rock.</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-11730760326043751142023-10-01T16:16:00.001+00:002023-10-01T16:16:11.910+00:00THE MONKEES - 1967 (1 ALBUM)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"MORE OF THE MONKEES"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>
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WHEN LOVE COMES KNOCKIN' (AT YOUR DOOR)</span> - Typical 60s Pop track sung by Davy Jones. Written by superior songwriters Carol Bayer Sager and Neil Sedaka. Its chirpy and bright and radio friendly.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">MARY, MARY</span> - One of my favourite Monkees' tracks again sung by Dolenz. Great guitar Pop Rock, simple hooks and chorus but it packs a punch.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">HOLD ON GIRL</span> - Eerie and experimental, almost Folk Pop track sung by Jones with off key backing vocals and a Psychedelic keyboard solos.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">YOUR AUNTIE GRIZELDA</span> - Another experimental tune, the first released song with Peter Tork taking on the lead vocals. A persistent Rock keyboard leads the way through the song. Its humorous, quirky and Tork makes a variety of sounds during the instrumental break to mx it up crazy style. Can't help but like this its so mad.</div>
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(I'M NOT YOUR (STEPPING STONE)</span> - Originally a song by Paul Revere and The Raiders but The Monkees made the most popular version. Dolenz again on lead vocals this is 60s Progressive Rock and one of my favourites from the band. Awesome track.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">LOOK OUT (HERE COMES TOMORROW)</span> - Sung by Jones and written by Neil Diamond, who apparently played Acoustic guitar on the track. Great minimal sounding focussing on the vocals, 60s Pop at its best.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE KIND OF GIRL I COULD LOVE</span> - Michael Nesmith takes over the vocals on this Country Blues track. Catchy and a foot tapper.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE DAY WE FALL IN LOVE</span> - Strange orchestral song with whispered repetitve vocals from Jones. Didn't really get this one at all!</div>
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SOMETIME IN THE MORNING</span> - A nice, laid back Pop ballad sung by Dolenz. </div>
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LAUGH</span> - Almost Folk Rock jamming track sung by Jones. Complete with "hahaha" backing vocals!</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">I'M A BELIEVER</span> - One of biggest hits of the 60s, the classic track written again by Neil Diamond (again helping out on Acoustic guitar). Sung by Dolenz its a mid tempo Beat Pop track that builds in crescendo to that memorable chorus and everyone of my generation and probably others can't help but sing along to it. A classic.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-30611814796610287502023-10-01T15:53:00.001+00:002023-10-01T15:53:08.407+00:00THE FIREFLYS - 2016 - 2019 (2 ALBUMS)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0y-Kyh7fkE0/WdY9fQxw49I/AAAAAAAAA7g/6QjJudna0YYNT9GpYf0QsbbcAwQIZAjlQCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/fireflys-the%2Billumination%2Bof%2Beverything.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0y-Kyh7fkE0/WdY9fQxw49I/AAAAAAAAA7g/6QjJudna0YYNT9GpYf0QsbbcAwQIZAjlQCPcBGAYYCw/s320/fireflys-the%2Billumination%2Bof%2Beverything.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"THE ILLUMINATION OF EVERYTHING"</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2016</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEf6lg5QSbIreeTGMmj8SIK2RVU1LCKAK4uifLakt5gas0Ir7SMJyz6RCC8ZCFyCcOrXhjNvMKhqrJS8-TRDHHDmRODhLS7misVK2gtNctrDX8yJoaP5PuUHZm8BaOp5bbIMGC63auo2SA9b0Jimn-X8SJaHdGwH0VqBxkh-jJ8Kl3SqVr_1PikWw/s810/thefireflys1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="810" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEf6lg5QSbIreeTGMmj8SIK2RVU1LCKAK4uifLakt5gas0Ir7SMJyz6RCC8ZCFyCcOrXhjNvMKhqrJS8-TRDHHDmRODhLS7misVK2gtNctrDX8yJoaP5PuUHZm8BaOp5bbIMGC63auo2SA9b0Jimn-X8SJaHdGwH0VqBxkh-jJ8Kl3SqVr_1PikWw/s320/thefireflys1.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">ILLUMINATION</span> - Rip-roaring opening of frenzied heavy guitars
before launching into classic Fireflys territory, the melodious,
incredibly catchy chorus! At 2 minutes 12 seconds we get an atmospheric
electronic/guitar break, almost psychedelic before heading back to an
epic finish.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">RELEASE/REPEAT</span> - This light Folk Rock
track is already a fan favourite before the album launch due to its
prior single outing. One of those tracks you just need to keep playing, a
first namer on any Flys hit team sheet!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BMToRc3CEOw" width="320" youtube-src-id="BMToRc3CEOw"></iframe></div><p>
<span style="color: #fcff01;">BRANCHES</span> -
This song was played to death in our house, and to our friends! A
beautifully crafted song, melancholic and light, the guitars remind me
of Prince's Purple Rain solo, it sings of sadness and hope. Sheer class,
I called it a lilting mixed masterpiece in a first review, I wasn't
wrong.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jDkiE5RQGCk" width="320" youtube-src-id="jDkiE5RQGCk"></iframe></div><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANGEL OF THE NORTH</span> - A chilled and
relaxing number, a little 70s Prog Rock, a little 90s Stone Roses.
After a hard day's work you put this on with your favourite beverage and
sit a while...Flys style....<br /></p><p>
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BE ALONE</span> - A slow
burner, took me a few listens to appreciate this track. A cinematic,
dramatic intro throws you a bit at first but then the light Pop Rock
track kicks in and the lyrics are really lovely, nobody wants to be
alone, right?</p><p>
<span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN WE WERE YOUNG</span> - One of the tracks
debuted at the awesome Storytellers gig at The Brindley last year.
Loved it from that moment, it has the same gorgeous feelings of hope and
positivity that is the Flys' calling card.<br />
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RIVER
SONG</span> - Really love this track, Jon Bon Jovi and the boys would be proud
of this, anthemic 80s Rock at its best. Would be great in a huge arena.
It has that fast paced chugga chugga guitars that make you wanna play
air guitar,man!<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">TIDES</span> - Reminds me of a little Chili
Peppers or Guns N' Roses' Patience. Has that cool "live" sound and is a
pure and very lovely Flys ballad.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">SEVER</span> - The
second previewed taster track at The Brindley "Storytellers" gig. All I can say
is it is simply brilliant, heartfelt lyrics with a little hint of a
Country/Folk hybrid backing. Class.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">TIME DID THIS TO
US</span> - This reminds me a little of R.E.M, or maybe singer Lee Wylding is channeling his
"inner Stipe"! Its a really stunning song and a fitting bundle of
nostalgia, given that the Flys have also "changed". Everything is truly
illuminated with Fireflys...</p><p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhocdoHqYzFily8wVMwpi6MQqxg8l1SzcXHzd1t260s4GqDMTkpFpgpypwy9PirQI4fcUi5xtx0uQwJXgWTq-Ux01Jhm_L3IcC_zN69NrjWbLI5jvznYV6wIknbTlngWWAOxbDqbQMDM_lTEt8glttsLHq3HlYPwH7cEeVSHjU8VtOxHWcXRMwFXs4Q9M8/s250/THE%20FIREFLYS%20ONLY%20US%20NORTHERN%20LIGHTS.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhocdoHqYzFily8wVMwpi6MQqxg8l1SzcXHzd1t260s4GqDMTkpFpgpypwy9PirQI4fcUi5xtx0uQwJXgWTq-Ux01Jhm_L3IcC_zN69NrjWbLI5jvznYV6wIknbTlngWWAOxbDqbQMDM_lTEt8glttsLHq3HlYPwH7cEeVSHjU8VtOxHWcXRMwFXs4Q9M8/s1600/THE%20FIREFLYS%20ONLY%20US%20NORTHERN%20LIGHTS.webp" width="250" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"> <b><span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">"ONLY US, NORTHERN LIGHTS"</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;">2019</span><br /></span></b></p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">GRACE </span>- Epic opener on this, the band's fifth album which eventually became their last before frontman Lee Wylding formed The Far North. Its a melodic Pop Rock track with a hint of Country with a breezy outlook. The last couple of minutes give a really uplifting feel with a chorus of atmospheric "oh oh" and positive mantra repeated. </p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yVR5j2gmxZ4" width="320" youtube-src-id="yVR5j2gmxZ4"></iframe> <br /></div><p></p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">RUNAWAY</span> - Another blockbusting Folk/Americana anthem. Searing guitars and pounding drums and emotive vocals with a memorable chorus. Brilliant track.</p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">THIS HOUSE IS OURS</span> - A lovely Country Folk track, a chugging upbeat backing track behind Lee's lilting, soulful vocals. This is another gem, up there with some of the band's best tracks.</p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANNA AGAIN</span> - This has a very 70s Soft Pop Rock vibe, its a another melodic piece of genius from the band. Proving that no genre is untouchable, this is more poppy than some of their tracks but is beautifully crafted.</p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">JULIANNE</span> - A re-working of the song from the "Embers Of The Autumn" album. Alittle more fuller in sound than the original and its a great slow driven lazy Rock track. Gorgeous twinkly guitars towards the end.</p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">RELEASE/REPEAT</span> - Another re-working, this time from the previous album. A brave move but it works. The song was an instant hit with fans before "The Illumination of Everything" came out and so this is just a bigger and better and more polished version. Classy track.</p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">PUSH</span> - Another change of gear here, this Rock track has a very Gothic/Grunge feel with maybe a little Classic and Progressive Rock mixed in! Dark, searing guitars and pumping bass back up Lee's deep vocal touch.</p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">THESE CITIES, THESE COLOURS</span> - A beautiful more minimal Soft Rock ballad. Soulful and mellow, very nice indeed. It builds up to a crescendo near the end and then comes down to leave us with a melancholic feeling again</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jCEHIe0t7lg" width="320" youtube-src-id="jCEHIe0t7lg"></iframe></div><p></p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE SAILOR & THE SEA</span> - Awesome uplifting Rock track, The Fireflys have an enviable talent for churning out incredible melodies and creating an emotion within. Another favourite of mine.</p><p><span style="color: #fcff01;">MY HEART (LIVE)</span> - A really lovely heartfelt and soulful Acoustic ballad to finish of a fine album. The band ended too soon in my opinion but all good things must come to an end sometime. Thy finish on a high.<br /></p><p><span style="color: red;"><b>ALSO ON NEW MUSIC EAR- </b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.newmusicear.com/2023/08/thefarnorth-albums.html"><b>THE FAR NORTH</b></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-77665005441603930332023-09-29T15:42:00.004+00:002023-09-29T15:42:41.682+00:00PALOMA FAITH - 2009 - 2012 (2 ALBUMS)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"DO YOU WANT THE TRUTH OR SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL?"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2009</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9F5BngzWBh4aEtc7gm6YQoFdWKldwVAkl0I3cJpR81v46-44topM1TLIGH5cV9Xjz55nM80rc_3TtUaJumTMobIbblNi5lxNSMurFPojq6GdXxqva-TChiR5JWwhreH3PFSelBrvjmj4g3IIlf9vrywqifKthIjd-AppLN5gayMLvmHls5J7CS-0/s640/palomafaith1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="640" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9F5BngzWBh4aEtc7gm6YQoFdWKldwVAkl0I3cJpR81v46-44topM1TLIGH5cV9Xjz55nM80rc_3TtUaJumTMobIbblNi5lxNSMurFPojq6GdXxqva-TChiR5JWwhreH3PFSelBrvjmj4g3IIlf9vrywqifKthIjd-AppLN5gayMLvmHls5J7CS-0/s320/palomafaith1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STONE COLD SOBER</span> - Great debut single from Paloma, has a slight Country twang but is deep in Blues Soul, a bit of everything with some awesome vocals. Gave us a teaser for what was to come from the fearless singer.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/H4reFIP1s6w/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H4reFIP1s6w?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">SMOKE AND MIRRORS</span> - A kind of 60s Pop feel to this track, a more laid back vocal this time.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">BROKEN DOLL</span> - A darkly soft ballad with a distinct Musical feel, Paloma again taking on different styles that has since become her trademark. A little Eartha Kitt or innocent quality of Marilyn Monroe.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">DO YOU WANT THE TRUTH OR SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL?</span> - Pure Soul Pop on this title track. A beautifully (no pun intended) sung and almost 60s era style.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">UPSIDE DOWN</span> - A great Jazz/Soul hybrid, its fun, its slinky and delivered in the unmistakeable quirky Paloma Faith style. Love this, its cool. You can see the dancers sancing behind her in a vintage smoky bar.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">ROMANCE IS DEAD</span> - An emotional, lovely laid back Pop song, very sweet.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">NEW YORK</span> - Brilliant Pop Soul with a really nice, powerful Gospel chorus by the Souls of Prophecy Gospel Choir from London.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PZF7CDBj1U0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PZF7CDBj1U0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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STARGAZER</span> - Paloma plays the chanteuse/diva singing a big emotional ballad. Chorus somehow reminds me of The Kids From Fame "Starmaker" a little. Nice song.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">MY LEGS ARE WEAK</span> - This is a slow meandering song, not a favourite of mine and probably the least effective track on this amazing debut. It just doesn't give me anything. Its slow pace and big orchestral help doesn't make it memorable sadly.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">PLAY ON</span> - The final sog on a terrific debut album, the slightly more impetus and harmonies lift this to a bigger status than the previous song. Not a top track but its a nice end to the album, it works but only just!</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">"FALL TO GRACE"</b><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">2012</b><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVhHbLl-ru2Xg_yhi4xzcsErpTzFPB8L0LAxIh2Ziu6rk-GCH0v54wtogFb8N6xRXi4RnwcuZAsaqwltVPftPeU8MF64QKDS2_CV2pHn-aQMOm6tSkLApXYpJiTNX0Sh6IFXSmAREz9el9bYcDg27A4WoYqVmiCctqkBX0cr5f0gPyxNMzQRlyHOQ1Lo/s750/palomafaith2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVhHbLl-ru2Xg_yhi4xzcsErpTzFPB8L0LAxIh2Ziu6rk-GCH0v54wtogFb8N6xRXi4RnwcuZAsaqwltVPftPeU8MF64QKDS2_CV2pHn-aQMOm6tSkLApXYpJiTNX0Sh6IFXSmAREz9el9bYcDg27A4WoYqVmiCctqkBX0cr5f0gPyxNMzQRlyHOQ1Lo/s320/palomafaith2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PICKING UP THE PIECES</span>
- Paloma's second album opens with this brilliant Pop Soul track. A
powerful vocal fronting a minimal backing track and choral backing
vocals. Big chorus and superbly emotionally charged lead sung by this
talented lady. The first single from the album reached number 7 in the
UK chart. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ijel4Vcqd9g" width="320" youtube-src-id="Ijel4Vcqd9g"></iframe></div> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">30 MINUTE LOVE AFFAIR</span>
- This is a typical catchy 80s Pop styled track that is a nice, laid
back song with an easy going beat. The second single from the album
only scraped to number 50 in the UK chart with suprised me as it is very
radio-friendly.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BLACK & BLUE</span>
- A big R 'n B/Soul ballad echoing the great Motown female vocalists.
Powerful, passionate and emotional. A single released as digital single
only this would have easily reached the real UK charts high spots.
Brilliant song.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">JUST BE</span>
- Another criminally ignored single only reaching number 66 in the UK
chart. A piano led almost Motown song with a little jazzy feel and some
perfect vocals from Paloma.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kvHiflzabHg" width="320" youtube-src-id="kvHiflzabHg"></iframe></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LET ME DOWN EASY</span>
- Another powerful Soul vocal over a typical laid back Motown Blues
backing. A cover version of the 1965 song by Betty LaVette.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS</span>
- A pumping beat and an electro feel with Paloma singing almost her own
tune over the top. Disappointing, this is the music that this album is
suposed to avoid. Filler for me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BEAUTY OF THE END</span>
- A ballad of sorts, an emotioanl vocal over the music that is put back
into the mix. Has a kind of unusual Folk vibe, great song, back to her
best on this one.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN YOU'RE GONE</span> - Another anthemic Soul track, the Paloma way, big vocals, glorious emotion charged backing. Nice.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">AGONY</span> - This reminds me a little of Gwen Stefani, a minimalist slow ballad but a lovely track.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LET YOUR LOVE WALK IN</span>
- Again Paloma's excellent vocal carries this track, it could fall into
mediocrity but her voice keeps you interested. Not her best but an
average song.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FREEDOM</span>
- This is a great song despite the strange Trip Hop styled backing. It
is unusal but works due to the great chorus and the vocal.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STREETS OF GLORY</span>
- A passionate Orchestral sounding track, that tries to lift at times
but just fails. I guess this was supposed to be the last track filler
before "Never Tear Us Apart" was added to later versions. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">NEVER TEAR US APART</span>
- Released as a single after the song got massive airplay during a John
Lewis advertising campaign. A great, moody, Pop Rock with a jazzy
chanteuse vocal. Brilliant cover of the INXS classic. The track only
reached number 16 on the UK chart.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><br /></div></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-54217364269106441952023-09-29T14:21:00.000+00:002023-09-29T14:21:09.777+00:00TEARS FOR FEARS - 1983 - 1984 (2 ALBUMS)<div style="text-align: center;">
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: #fcff01; color: red;">1983</b><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rqhMTt1azoaI51teraHlRElhS_nGSMqWqCLHzg5LNnxptDGJbWhzNPoE_7buXA7VRGaNPnoQM5pTbHOk63xYWOL1-x-V3SRfgB19qWVg9tXwuq65tzrFNhBKAGo7kDqpFSWeFjXTPUAdRNPZoF3w6fcQQuAzpdILE1SnY2lHJ3sM6Vny-ii8vyI4kvk/s640/tearsforfears2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rqhMTt1azoaI51teraHlRElhS_nGSMqWqCLHzg5LNnxptDGJbWhzNPoE_7buXA7VRGaNPnoQM5pTbHOk63xYWOL1-x-V3SRfgB19qWVg9tXwuq65tzrFNhBKAGo7kDqpFSWeFjXTPUAdRNPZoF3w6fcQQuAzpdILE1SnY2lHJ3sM6Vny-ii8vyI4kvk/s320/tearsforfears2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE HURTING</span> - The duo's debut album opens with a typical 80s New Wave track, sometimes sombre and mysterious with a little Progressive Rock undertones. Nice arrangements and attention grabbing on first listen.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MAD WORLD</span> - An 80s classic in my opinion, the unmistakeable clanking percussion and the eerie vocals. The third single from the album reaching number 3 on the UK chart. A very mature Synth Pop/New Wave fusion with a simple but memorable chorus.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/u1ZvPSpLxCg" width="320" youtube-src-id="u1ZvPSpLxCg"></iframe></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PALE SHELTER</span> - The second single from the album and Tears For Fears' first top 10 hit reaching number 5 in the UK chart but only after a re-working and re-release. One of my favourite tracks of the 80s and by the band. It is a New Wave track with light, melancholic verses and a big chorus. The harmonies and vocals are great on this.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BUfcT5OoP-8" width="320" youtube-src-id="BUfcT5OoP-8"></iframe></div> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">IDEAS AS OPIATES</span> - An atmospheric minimalist track with vocals set in the background of the music. Medieval-like and choral at times but not a major track for me, filler seems more likely.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MEMORIES FADE</span> - Interesting track this one, a great experimental mix of genres including Synth Pop, Rock, Electronica and Rock. The mix works well and the vocals are intertwined to make it a unique track.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SUFFER THE CHILDREN </span>- The introductory first single from the album just missing out on the top 50 in the UK chart reaching number 52. It is pure Synth Pop and catchy reminding me a little of Ultravox. I like this song and am surprised by its low reception.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WATCH ME BLEED</span> - Reminiscent of Talk Talk this is an 80s New Wave Pop Rock track that is a decent song but not reaching the heights of "Mad World" and "Pale Shelter" so far.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CHANGE</span> - The fourth single from this set and it continued the band's top 10 hits reaching number 4 in the UK chart. Keeping the clanking percussion of "Mad World" but adding more New Wave guitars and effects this is a great track with a very simple chorus but again, still catchy! Love this one.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE PRISONER</span> - This is like a scary horror movie soundtrack with the odd lyric and various vocal shouts and screams. Very eerie instrumental.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">START OF THE BREAKDOWN</span> - The album ends on this track, a musical mishmash of all the styles used on the album. It's not a bad song but it doesn't have anything to lift it to bigger heights. Still, it was a good debut from the boys.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"SONGS FROM THE BIG CHAIR"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>
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THE WORKING HOUR</span> - A more soulful, melancholic song with piano and saxophone parts. Similar to Spandau Ballet's soul style on "True" in 1983. A really nice relaxing, mellow song, maybe a little long at over 6 minutes but nice all the same.</div>
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EVERYBODY WANTS TO THE RULE THE WORLD</span> - Probably one of two most memorable songs by Tears For Fears along with "Shout". Ultimate Pop New Wave, lots of instrumental parts, a catchy sing along chorus, a mega hit all around the world.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/aGCdLKXNF3w/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aGCdLKXNF3w?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">MOTHERS TALK</span> - One of my favourites, a funky New Wave Pop Rock crossover. Sampling, echo effects and guitar riffs make this the new edgier and creatively experimental Tears For Fears sound on this album. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/5dCD1p0zPbs/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5dCD1p0zPbs?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">I BELIEVE</span> - A lovely, laid back Jazz based Pop ballad. Minimal and piano led it apparently was dedicated to singer songwriter Robert Wyatt. The song was released as a live single subtitled "A Soulful Re-recording". </div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">BROKEN</span> - A mostly experimental instrumental with a little snippet of the melody from the next track "Head Over Heels". </div>
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HEAD OVER HEELS/BROKEN</span> - Leading into a a little reprise of a live version of "Broken" this track is also one of my favourites. Probably the most Pop Rock styled track off the album, its midtempo almost ballad like quality is really nice and the chorus is engaging.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">LISTEN</span> - An almost Classical orchestrated epic ending to the album. The synths and guitars briefly contort to include effects and an operatic vocal backing by Marilyn Davis. Eases your mind gently out of the album, nice if not as memorable as some of the tracks on this great second album.</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-62951203094838777302023-09-27T16:28:00.001+00:002023-09-27T16:28:01.999+00:00CHASING INFINITY - 2015 (1 ALBUM)<div style="text-align: center;">
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DANCE WITH THE ONE THAT BROUGHT YOU </span>- Laid back Pop with Adele Halsall's pure, bright vocals making this an absolute gem. The half Acoustic momentsand big chorus are awesome.</div>
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CRIME OF THE SCENE </span>- Red Hot Chili Peppers with a female vocalist! Love this track, chugs along at a pace and its funky.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">HELL WOULDN'T HAVE YOU</span> - Chili Peppers meets Blondie here. It's funky, rocky and frenetic. Sheer class.</div>
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TAKE ME BACK</span> - Not as catchy as the previous tracks, its pure "live" cut back sound sounds cool but its a lesser Pop track, more like a demo for me.</div>
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GATEWAY</span> - Very much reminds me of Gwen Stefani and No Doubt, it's quirky, sweet and rocky enough to keep you engaged. One of my favourites with is catchy chorus.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">DEBRIS</span> - Some New Wave Punk on this track. The 80s influences of Blondie and 90s No Doubt are very evident. Its frenetic tampo keeps to the style of the album.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">4:37</span> - Cool guitar Pop Rock akin to Bangles and Go-Gos, with some harmonica I think in there too. Sounds like a proper fun jam with all having a good time.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/B9EeSwUGTrs/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/B9EeSwUGTrs?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">INACTION</span> - The title track is a medium paced rocker, minimal verses before breaking into the chorus with a crescendo. Almost Classic Rock style but with the Pop elements.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/O6EujKC6xJI/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O6EujKC6xJI?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">STALLING</span> - A minimal backing for Adele's stunning voice, could mistake this for Gwen Stefani. its a catchy light Pop song, slides along nicely, laid back and summery cool.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">PERFECT SENSE</span> - Awesome guitar work once again, it makes this song a hit for me, There is a catchy chorus as usual, Adele's voice impeccable but the Acoustic guitar takes it up a notch. Almost Rush style track, complete with effects and echoes.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">IF THIS IS A CONTEST ABOUT LOSING, THEN CALL ME THE WINNER</span> - The album's final track is a bit of a Pop Punk stomper. Its uptempo pace and energy just make you want to singalong and go crazy. Superb ending to the Liverpool band's debut set.<br /></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-37772342787750098282023-09-16T14:33:00.001+00:002023-09-16T14:33:31.567+00:00RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS - 1999 (1 ALBUM)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">PARALLEL UNIVERSE</span> - With its unusual Europop throbbing Electro beat merging into the blasting Hard Rock chorus. Clever, experimental and top stuff.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">SCAR TISSUE</span> - One of my favourite Chili's tracks. A laid back almost Acoustic Blues Rock track with a little Folk style vocals. Awesome anthemic guitars.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/mzJj5-lubeM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mzJj5-lubeM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">OTHERSIDE</span> - A classy Alternative Rock track, almost Grunge style of the 90s. This apparently deals with addicts' problems with their previous addictions. A dark meaning but a great song.</div>
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GET ON TOP</span> - Classic Chili Peppers simialr to "Give It Away", hard Funk Rock with Rap interludes and exquisite funky bass from Flea.<br />
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CALIFORNICATION</span> - One of the band's best songs in my opinion. Anthony shows his vocals have gone up a notch in quality from previous albums. Almost Progressive Rock/Classic Rock crossover. Absolutely love this song, driving backing music, great vocals and a memorable chorus.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YlUKcNNmywk/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YlUKcNNmywk?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">EASILY</span> - This track is pretty much like New Wave Punk from the late 70s, early 80s. Has moments that remind me of The Clash and Elvis Costello. A gem. </div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">PORCELAIN</span> - A dreamlike, emotive, almost lullaby track which is sweet and melancholic.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">EMIT REMMUS</span> - Punk meets Grunge in this track with some Classic Rock screeching guitars adding substance to the track. A stomping track.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">I LIKE DIRT</span> - Reminds me of early 80s INXS, Funky Rock Pop at its best.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THIS VELVET GLOV</span>E - Similar in style to "Scar Tissue" for the most part with some fleeting brash Rock parts.</div>
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SAVIOR</span> - Superb Rock vocals from Anthony with intermittent 60s style harmonies thrown in. This track is proof that Kiedis is not a one trick pony with the Rock Rap vocal, he really uses his range here. A midtempo melancholic 70s Progressive Rock style song.</div>
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PURPLE STAIN </span>- A really funky workout track. Love this, almost Disco Funk merging with Rock backing.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">RIGHT ON TIME</span> - A frenetic, atmospheric hippie style merges with Progressive Rock, Classic Rock, Rap and Eurodisco. Another experimental gem.</div>
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ROAD TRIPPIN' </span>- An almost Country Folk track, a quirky, melancholi, dreamlike little ditty that is brilliant.</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-71016226041087860002023-09-16T14:33:00.000+00:002023-09-16T14:33:10.255+00:00ABBA - 1973 - 2021 (THE COMPLETE 9 ALBUM COLLECTION)<div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ytp5UInyUOU/XrlIxITHfmI/AAAAAAAADlw/UF6MKoRba_opKdq_FnTOeRYMfEr3it3igCK4BGAsYHg/RING.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ytp5UInyUOU/XrlIxITHfmI/AAAAAAAADlw/UF6MKoRba_opKdq_FnTOeRYMfEr3it3igCK4BGAsYHg/s320/RING.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"RING RING"</b></span></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1973</b></span></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxORKQiujAfFIlLUmRzFSmEv_O5UCVpfj9VlKBHBn2ZU9cz0E-qjnI07jhzc_loNbV51BhHyGE09Sbq6y4qk38TDeK_FgD4ju9bOLiyeLXoUJUFMegjKIvIf25Bz2XMQfcmEMZ1g0E2iSEcQ9ZpJZUkNiIxV2lHRZh4zkOI5djkfg02PYcj6OIOmxN/s2048/c40887c6a8dcb2e79e579512b00c36e6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2016" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxORKQiujAfFIlLUmRzFSmEv_O5UCVpfj9VlKBHBn2ZU9cz0E-qjnI07jhzc_loNbV51BhHyGE09Sbq6y4qk38TDeK_FgD4ju9bOLiyeLXoUJUFMegjKIvIf25Bz2XMQfcmEMZ1g0E2iSEcQ9ZpJZUkNiIxV2lHRZh4zkOI5djkfg02PYcj6OIOmxN/s320/c40887c6a8dcb2e79e579512b00c36e6.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RING RING</span> - The title track is one of the earlier memorable songs from the Abba catalogue. A perfect slice of Europop which gave Abba their breakthrough in several European countries at the start of their career. A simple mid tempo musical backing with one of those classic, memorable, catchy choruses for which the band became famous, made this a great start of this Pop phenomenon.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"> </div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TL0EoXdpOqg" width="320" youtube-src-id="TL0EoXdpOqg"></iframe></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANOTHER TOWN, ANOTHER TRAIN</span> - A melancholic, gentle Folk Pop ballad. Laid back, melodic, easy listening track that lilts along nicely. Bjorn Ulvaeus takes lead vocals with the usual singing ladies, Agentha Faltskog and Anni-frid Lyngstad backing up on the simplistic chorus.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DISILLUSION</span> - The only Abba released song to have a songwriting credit to Agnetha. She takes lead vocals too on this rather beautiful Pop ballad. A really nice song giving Agnetha full rein to guide it with her vocals.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PEOPLE NEED LOVE</span> - A Folk Pop track with a Euro influence. The debut single when Abba were known simply as "Bjorn & Benny, Agnetha & Anni-frid. Not knowing if there was even going to be an album or a band this was included on this debut from Abba. Catchy, positive track with a memorable chorus.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I SAW IT IN THE MIRROR </span>- This track isn't the best from a superb catalogue of Abba tunes. It is not one of my favourites and by all accounts also by fans. It meanders along in dirge-like fashion. Hardly any distinguishable features that lift the song. The girls try to lift it but it is hard work. A disappointment, thankfully their songwriting improved over the years!</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">NINA, PRETTY BALLERINA</span> - A cutesy, quirky little Europop midtempo, almost child-like track. Nice enough but not one of their best.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE ISN'T EASY (BUT IT SURE IS HARD ENOUGH) </span>- A little Country styled song with a Folk vibe. There are moments where it almost rocks up a gear. A little repetitive and not in a good, catchy way. An 'ok' song by this legendary group's standards.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ME AND BOBBY AND BOBBY'S BROTHER</span> - Lyrically quite child-like but then this was the band's first album where the songwriting craft was still to perfect. A Folk style Pop track that clearly is a filler.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HE IS YOUR BROTHER</span> - All four members join in with this track, a great track that has a little of everything that made Abba famous. Pop and Rock moments with some great melodies and harmonies. A little heavier Country Rock track. </div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gUr0SmQkFAI" width="320" youtube-src-id="gUr0SmQkFAI"></iframe></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SHE'S MY KIND OF GIRL</span> - This track was actually released in 1970 as a Bjorn & Benny single. It only features the two guys and is a kind of Simon & Garfunkel/Everly Brothers track. Nice 60s style Folk Rock with a great melody and harmonies.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I AM JUST A GIRL</span> - Agnetha I think on lead vocals but she fails to lift this dour Jazz chanteuse style track. Disappointing and uninspiring.</div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></div><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ROCK N' ROLL BAND</span> - A great track, obviously has elements of Rock N' Roll but also Country and Pop Rock. Its almost Progressive Rock style ends the album on a high. Love this track. <br /></div>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhEcumOKgTgPBL9mlyw4Ss0teQXXaboqK218g-3vC5aYc1q2ApXEqlB5fEJfFFEe5wOePn2fbA1GgILc1d-I9MGn_bgt8ARaFGLYC3BxLjpMDY9pyFj0-aMP7a-9SBDiUmInMKgO7Ifl25O_DFvu3crsp6if3fcshjQ0pdhv53oGuTkqURi21HUq4JK=s500" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="487" data-original-width="500" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhEcumOKgTgPBL9mlyw4Ss0teQXXaboqK218g-3vC5aYc1q2ApXEqlB5fEJfFFEe5wOePn2fbA1GgILc1d-I9MGn_bgt8ARaFGLYC3BxLjpMDY9pyFj0-aMP7a-9SBDiUmInMKgO7Ifl25O_DFvu3crsp6if3fcshjQ0pdhv53oGuTkqURi21HUq4JK=s320" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b> <span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"WATERLOO"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1974</b></span></span><b> <br /></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RVzOWlX5CQr8aGCmTK017WLbqe2-s4psKn8rB0rg3CcAbg02y2OzHSnSOXjtgMiwT6-dZnsSWfiEZSnZUGZDjmtpYQ3pPOehoV2A5ux0qh7hC3bFCNdG2iLH-iFpWIf1oCEVTQOtcNgcy7GdVs2f8VDJQIYlwwLetx0kA3bSHzwFW4deSbyAOH5z/s976/_112272901_vote_abba-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="976" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RVzOWlX5CQr8aGCmTK017WLbqe2-s4psKn8rB0rg3CcAbg02y2OzHSnSOXjtgMiwT6-dZnsSWfiEZSnZUGZDjmtpYQ3pPOehoV2A5ux0qh7hC3bFCNdG2iLH-iFpWIf1oCEVTQOtcNgcy7GdVs2f8VDJQIYlwwLetx0kA3bSHzwFW4deSbyAOH5z/s320/_112272901_vote_abba-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WATERLOO</span> - The band's second album opens with the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest winner and global smash cementing Abba's name in music history. The timeless classic hit number 1 in the UK and as with most Abba songs is a staple at any party. Catchy Pop/Dance/Rock , nothing more to say than "class".</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Sj_9CiNkkn4" width="320" youtube-src-id="Sj_9CiNkkn4"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SITTING IN THE PALMTREE</span> - Lead vocals by Bjorn on this track, it is a kind of summery almost Reggae Calypso song, Laid back and engagingly catchy.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">KING KONG SONG</span> - Bjorn again joins the Agnetha and Frida for this track's vocals. This is a brilliant Glam Rock style track. Catchy chorus and powerful vocals by all, with a really cool melodious chanted chorus. Could have easily been a single.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HASTA MANANA</span> - Spanish for "Until Tomorrow", this track is a female crooning styled track of old style Pop from the late 50s to early 60s. Simialr to the female singers of the time like Connie Francis and Brenda Lee, beautifully sung by Agentha here.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MY MAMA SAID</span> - Not a favourite of mine this one, it seems to meander along without a kick. It's almost hitting a Funk Disco vibe but holding back somewhat. It would work better with more Funk at the fore I think. Still its a rarity of an Abba song not to click with me.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DANCE (WHILE THE MUSIC STILL GOES ON)</span> - A song that gives the feel of Phil Spector and his Wall of Sound from the 60s. Everyone including Benny joins in the vocals on this track. Its Motown feel and soulful singing make this a great song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HONEY, HONEY</span> - Classic Europop singalong. Everyone knows this song, I even thought it was a cover version at the time because it felt like I had heard it many times but it is an Abba composition. It is light and catchy and Bjorn joins the girls again on this track.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AEysrhmufWg" width="320" youtube-src-id="AEysrhmufWg"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WATCH OUT</span> - Bjorn takes charge on vocals on this manic Glam Rock/Classic Rock track. Brilliant track and shows the band were not just a bubblegum Pop outfit as was once claimed by so called music critics. They cover all genres.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHAT ABOUT LIVINGSTONE</span> - This track supposedly about explorer David Livinsgstone. Its a kind of Alternative Country Pop. It is bright and breezy but not up to the standard of Abba classics.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">GONNA SING YOU MY LOVE SONG</span> - A big powerful Pop ballad sung brilliantly by Frida on lead vocals. Bags of emotion and a great love song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SUZY-HANG-AROUND</span> - Benny leads this Progressive, Psychedelic Rock styled track. It is nice and takes you back to the hippie times of the 60s. Reminds me a little of the Alternative Pop played by The Monkees.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RING RING (U.S. REMIX)</span> - The classic track and title of the previous album remixed for Americans!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgs3nNL-__OP2HYCDHS_VkwZq76povuyMYKBWhxuugzItEt7qGxNOCvJHhla2bm8UxxWyE_OyC3xvBsPQl8B5K0Fl4FPH1djDyuFTkC9fJ8p_DhGlaa67XW2iSvau29hZ-VFS8axWTOwx2fLeha9bFCiRdBmjn4gbySm0N_qKJnxgPOtIsnsyFu80D2=s355" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="319" data-original-width="355" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgs3nNL-__OP2HYCDHS_VkwZq76povuyMYKBWhxuugzItEt7qGxNOCvJHhla2bm8UxxWyE_OyC3xvBsPQl8B5K0Fl4FPH1djDyuFTkC9fJ8p_DhGlaa67XW2iSvau29hZ-VFS8axWTOwx2fLeha9bFCiRdBmjn4gbySm0N_qKJnxgPOtIsnsyFu80D2=s320" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"ABBA"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1975</b></span></span><b> <br /></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfu6bl8gS67Z35_a9b4G_MoJISQ6w2X8jkHAJYJgGmil5iCKHbzFW1VNl7IVCfluviakwAuKh0S9qXX3ucZJ3qp5_1TkudxaW2vHt9IR9Poju60mvdWSmCdlK21n90D30BVm1VKZmLf30TQ6Af32zGbNtbtRgKEa9XB08qvH08PS1sctyleIOVToZ/s750/8261deb3e785d8cf1eaa1f679aec6fde.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="750" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfu6bl8gS67Z35_a9b4G_MoJISQ6w2X8jkHAJYJgGmil5iCKHbzFW1VNl7IVCfluviakwAuKh0S9qXX3ucZJ3qp5_1TkudxaW2vHt9IR9Poju60mvdWSmCdlK21n90D30BVm1VKZmLf30TQ6Af32zGbNtbtRgKEa9XB08qvH08PS1sctyleIOVToZ/s320/8261deb3e785d8cf1eaa1f679aec6fde.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MAMMA MIA</span> - Abba's third studio album is almost like a hits album in itself with so many well known songs on it. This opening track was a mega hit across the globe and was the sixth single from the set and the first UK number 1 since "Waterloo". A classic Abba song, Europop merging with Progressive 70s Rock, a pure timeless gem.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HEY, HEY HELEN</span> - A little Disco, a little Glam Rock and a little Europop. A simple but effective and engaging experimental track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TROPICAL LOVELAND</span> - Frida carries this song in a Calypso Regga Pop style. It's a nice, summery, feel good, relaxing track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SOS</span> - Reaching number 6 on the UK chart, this is one of my favourite Abba tracks. An anthemic Rock Pop classic sung beautifully by Agnetha.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cvChjHcABPA" width="320" youtube-src-id="cvChjHcABPA"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MAN IN THE MIDDLE</span> - Led by Bjorn on vocals, this is a cool, funky track with a great chorus and laid back, sleazy attitude. Love it.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BANG-A-BOOMERANG</span> - Both girls are back on vocals for this song. A typical Europop style with a hint of 60s Wall of Sound Motown. It is catchy and again memorable. Not released as a single in UK but was a minor hit in several countries.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I DO, I DO, I DO, I DO, I DO</span> - The third single from the album only reached number 36 on the UK chart. Its a nice piano led Pop ballad but not one of my favourites, I must admit. Beautifully sung with orchestrated backing but doesn't really go anywhere for me.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ROCK ME</span>- An absolute favourite of mine. Led by Bjorn as is usually the case on the rockier songs. His throaty, hard rockin' vocal merges with the infectious beat and guitars to make a melodious old fashioned Rock 'n Roll track. Nice. Interestingly not a single worldwide but a hit in Australia and New Zealand!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cPJLJfWzKJE" width="320" youtube-src-id="cPJLJfWzKJE"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">INTERMEZZO NO1</span> - An almost Classical/Progressive Rock instrumental, both eerie and off beat quirky. Its cool if you like instrumentals, but for me Abba is the vocal harmonies.. <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR YOU</span> - A big powerful Pop ballad sung by Agnetha. It's anthemic Europop, its not a great Abba song for me, but then it has a lot to live up to!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SO LONG</span> - Similar in vein to "Waterloo", the Rock 'n Roll Pop style is brilliant once again. Another favourite of mine of so many. The first single on the album released in a handful of countries but not UK and yet we still all know it, like so many of the band's lesser songs.</p><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJo6XOWROlfuNkIeHe8NjlybCkm4XmkYMuaBWv3jpzsMPMUrmaTnBasJKJVJaQ50czQeHUjQMyW0w3uT2pYn2i5-JT0qnwVzUuJQoSPHifaiOggSP0QjYyuGYLM86oxOKFrME6eis-CBX6fQ0YNeRW3v7VLO3nG3gWXE1ruLGRImXvVTneCVFPxLDd=s601" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="599" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJo6XOWROlfuNkIeHe8NjlybCkm4XmkYMuaBWv3jpzsMPMUrmaTnBasJKJVJaQ50czQeHUjQMyW0w3uT2pYn2i5-JT0qnwVzUuJQoSPHifaiOggSP0QjYyuGYLM86oxOKFrME6eis-CBX6fQ0YNeRW3v7VLO3nG3gWXE1ruLGRImXvVTneCVFPxLDd=s320" width="319" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> <span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"ARRIVAL"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1976</b></span></span><b> <br /></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPpjLNqSWmBtlEPzNP3xPW3JcV9Ir15fKPUUhALmj7x3CCcD8k6dVLeIa3nHzelbIQ7Dnds3ZDg6bB5SrV-y9IkQrrdSYORhUzhNRy4xtLUIo1BmsRoXfKTjh4GkRp-dysci9xX6UsVUXFWJFyLnTE8gm2OQ7toZLipMymjWv_ErInmKJmT0-Ejai/s640/abba-1976-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDPpjLNqSWmBtlEPzNP3xPW3JcV9Ir15fKPUUhALmj7x3CCcD8k6dVLeIa3nHzelbIQ7Dnds3ZDg6bB5SrV-y9IkQrrdSYORhUzhNRy4xtLUIo1BmsRoXfKTjh4GkRp-dysci9xX6UsVUXFWJFyLnTE8gm2OQ7toZLipMymjWv_ErInmKJmT0-Ejai/s320/abba-1976-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN I KISSED THE TEACHER</span> - The opening track to the fourth album from Abba is a lighthearted whimsical light Pop Rock track about a student who can't handle the crush anymore more and kisses the teacher! If anyone else made this track it would be scandalous but this seemed to have gone by the censors. It is a breezy track to open a great album.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DANCING QUEEN</span> - Every party staple since this was released. An all time classic, number 1 in the UK and numerous other countries and even their only USA chart topper. Unmistakeable intro, catchy chorus and a pumping Europop Disco beat with slower vocals, a gem.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xFrGuyw1V8s" width="320" youtube-src-id="xFrGuyw1V8s"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MY LOVE, MY LIFE</span> - A simply beautiful ballad, sung by Agnetha. Such pure vocals and a melancholic melody that is both positive and heartbreaking.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DUM DUM DIDDLE</span> - By any other artist this would be a ridiculous, banal Eurovision entry. The fact that is sounds pretty decent despite that is such a testimony to Abba that they can make anything sound music worthy!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">KNOWING ME, KNOWING YOU</span> - Another classic rolls off the line on this album. The third single from this set and reached number 1 in the UK and its another of those magical memory inducing songs. Sung this time on lead by Frida. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iUrzicaiRLU" width="320" youtube-src-id="iUrzicaiRLU"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MONEY, MONEY, MONEY</span> - The big hits kept coming for Abba with this great Europop Rock styled track. Again with Frida on vocals, it sounds almost like a James Bond theme with its dramatic orchestral-like backing. Only reaching number 3 in the UK chart but a massive hit all over.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THAT'S ME</span> - This track would not be out of place on the "Voulez-Vous" album with its pumping Disco beat. Although deep into the next decade Erasure would come around, this surely would have been one of their blueprints. Electronic Synth Pop Abba style.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE ME?</span> - 60s slow Rock 'n Roll track here with Bjorn joining the girls for the vocals. It has a great Jazz Blues feel too. Cool.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TIGER</span> - An uptempo Pop Rock track that wouldn't have been out of place in the early 80s. It is almost New Wave Disco.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ARRIVAL</span> - To finish the album, the band go for another instrumental offering, I actually like this one. It has a nice Gothic Folk feel in composition</p><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"THE ALBUM"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1977</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">EAGLE</span> - The album opens with one of my alltime favourite Abba songs. Its mystical, space age, almost sci-fi musical backing and effects really got my mind engaged. This is just a superb composition, and in headphones this whisks you away into the sky, free as a bird. Almost 6 minutes of class.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/dDI7x1nwTUw/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dDI7x1nwTUw?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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TAKE A CHANCE ON ME</span> - One of the band's most successful singles, a great sing-a-long memorable chorus and chug-a-chug style backing. Europop Disco at its best. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-crgQGdpZR0/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-crgQGdpZR0?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">ONE MAN, ONE WOMAN</span> - Piano and synthesised led track with string parts make this a lovely ballad with Frida (Anni-Frid Lyngstad) on the leading vocals.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE NAME OF THE GAME</span> - Such a clever song, so many different sections in the song, even the vocals are jointly led by Frida and Agentha Faltskog with solo parts too. There is a lot going on and is very complex if you listen closely. Another hit single.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">MOVE ON</span> - This is a Waltz song that starts off like a Trucker song like "Teddy Bear" by Red Sovine in 1976. Bjorn Ulvaeus starts the talking first verse then Agnetha takes over for the rest of the song. A nice song but lacks the engaging quality of other songs, but to be fair, the best Abba songs are tough to beat.</div>
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HOLE IN YOUR SOUL</span> - An Electronic Rock N' Roll song, catchy chorus and great beats and tempo. This was a re-working of one of the tracks in the following "mini musical" originally called "Get On Your Carousel". <br />
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(THE GIRL WITH THE GOLDEN HAIR</span> - 3 scenes from a mini musical)</div>
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THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC</span> - This is the well known song that wasn't released as a single until 1983 to promote a Greatest Hits package. A great song that fans were singing to Abba after they split. This mini musical was played on live tours.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">I WONDER (Departure)</span> - This is pure musical that wouldn't have been out of place in something like "Evita". Frida takes lead vocal over a variety of orchestral instrumentation.<br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">I'M A MARIONETTE</span> - This is a Rock Opera type song. Electronic Progressive Rock? Is there such a thing? this could be it!</div>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKD3s5l-uzt0JFHt8NRoT3ac05_NPknjAmXqkCpuddvV-Ce5r_BShxmaKZ_MGO40DcFXo0s-QYHNQmJHbrZKI3Ymfm5vn9NihvTu_v6yHjTCdUHV2ohyRzdtynUIPgw2OUNQ2zIinKvux5UYWyUcPqXRXABbyDBQMVQCSrs33CDkkr8lBXM8sAYSCz=s550" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKD3s5l-uzt0JFHt8NRoT3ac05_NPknjAmXqkCpuddvV-Ce5r_BShxmaKZ_MGO40DcFXo0s-QYHNQmJHbrZKI3Ymfm5vn9NihvTu_v6yHjTCdUHV2ohyRzdtynUIPgw2OUNQ2zIinKvux5UYWyUcPqXRXABbyDBQMVQCSrs33CDkkr8lBXM8sAYSCz=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"VOULEZ-VOUS"</span></span> </b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1979</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmoz_0yexqAeBTNnM11yezOzfz0Pzxx1uck3ihZsJowk_K4172uCYtdBz03DHoXpNk4kiu8_NPicuq8E8Fb9eUwmb8Numevl-VrUXdhw9wVqZxO9to0yyybV8rmU4G-c_n3JaA5ad-IZzvgziqaTopiyxFOS_cfL1sNN7DvmQnVVgw6Wr1gfAHJqO/s858/ABBA-1979-tour-193a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="536" data-original-width="858" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmoz_0yexqAeBTNnM11yezOzfz0Pzxx1uck3ihZsJowk_K4172uCYtdBz03DHoXpNk4kiu8_NPicuq8E8Fb9eUwmb8Numevl-VrUXdhw9wVqZxO9to0yyybV8rmU4G-c_n3JaA5ad-IZzvgziqaTopiyxFOS_cfL1sNN7DvmQnVVgw6Wr1gfAHJqO/s320/ABBA-1979-tour-193a.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">AS GOOD AS NEW</span> - Abba's Disco styled sixth album opens with a stomping, fast paced funky track sung on lead vocals by Agnetha. The lyrics may be not as inciteful as some of the Swedish band's tracks but its got a great feel good vibe. A simple but effective introduction. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">VOULEZ-VOUS</span> - The title track hits that perfect Disco beat and sound, a classic Abba track and in my opinion, one of their best. Although the album is a year before the 80s this is straight out of the mid 70s club Disco scene. Great track and reached number 3 in the UK chart.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/za05HBtGsgU" width="320" youtube-src-id="za05HBtGsgU"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I HAVE A DREAM</span> - Frida takes lead vocals on this melancholic but positive track. It is a beautifully crafted song. It reached number 2 in the UK chart held off by Pink Floyd's "Another Brick In The Wall".</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANGELEYES</span> - Another favourite of mine. Released as a double A side with "Voulez-Vous" but its a great song in its own right. Another catchy Disco Pop track, great harmonies and melodies as usual. Timeless classic once again.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE KING HAS LOST HIS CROWN</span> - A mediocre track for me, although ably sung by Frida. It moves away from the Disco sound and this is just an average Pop ballad.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DOES YOUR MOTHER KNOW</span> - Class track and another favourite. Bjorn again taking lead vocal duties on the rockier songs. This is great, a pumping Disco beat with Rock leanings, great backing and harmonies from the girls. Brilliant and reaching number 4 on thr UK chart.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">IF IT WASN'T FOR THE NIGHTS</span> - This is like a Motown Disco track from the early 70s. It's not a bad song but fails to grab me like most Abba songs. Maybe because it sounds like many other songs of this genre, whereas Abba are usually pretty original.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CHIQUITITA</span> - Absolutely love this song, really emotional and uplifting. In Spanish it means "little one" but the single was huge reaching UK number 2. Agnetha takes the main lead vocals but the chorus is so anthemic the track became one of the band's biggest hits.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p4QqMKe3rwY" width="320" youtube-src-id="p4QqMKe3rwY"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVERS (LIVE A LITTLE LONGER)</span> - Frida and Agnetha exchange vocals in this orchestrated/guitars hybrid of a mid tempo Disco tune. A decent track if not a great one.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">KISSES OF FIRE</span> - Half Pop, half Disco, this track is pretty cool. It is like a mix of all the tracks we have previously heard with elements of everything. Good track to finish.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3q7sbrl77A2uYGXBZC2vzTzRENur5oQh8iyMJEHlYb2wVuLelNeVSgU9pISe-mATKkPziQWHsIk7oM_zE52b0FbL5gvDhqwAcPVWUtuXW3SmgMlQHzLwFrG302N-Lzhzq-1-eRTnf_HZ4am1feQxnnd6FlPy9FuHPSqXrxop7YsTnH7uNE0A58jK_=s500" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3q7sbrl77A2uYGXBZC2vzTzRENur5oQh8iyMJEHlYb2wVuLelNeVSgU9pISe-mATKkPziQWHsIk7oM_zE52b0FbL5gvDhqwAcPVWUtuXW3SmgMlQHzLwFrG302N-Lzhzq-1-eRTnf_HZ4am1feQxnnd6FlPy9FuHPSqXrxop7YsTnH7uNE0A58jK_=s320" width="320" /></a></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"SUPER TROUPER"</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1980</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVf-73H79XPUalJhdXpJMFdl2cvw_qZOKHYjao7ZivzsP63b0ZH0KM35HBU1sWZTA47heEuhC9ewsflfCDwg7ubbl6bOweezLSx0Dotun3Z5pv7H-Do2BBKbmebwu_K2NrRfleKyKpsQtb8bsz-RnYNapm0MANGZx6rPqutwZXW7SxfDEFJxCMtvXs/s800/mainABBA12.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="800" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVf-73H79XPUalJhdXpJMFdl2cvw_qZOKHYjao7ZivzsP63b0ZH0KM35HBU1sWZTA47heEuhC9ewsflfCDwg7ubbl6bOweezLSx0Dotun3Z5pv7H-Do2BBKbmebwu_K2NrRfleKyKpsQtb8bsz-RnYNapm0MANGZx6rPqutwZXW7SxfDEFJxCMtvXs/s320/mainABBA12.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SUPER TROUPER</span> - The UK number 1 title track opens the band's seventh studio album. "Super Trouper" returned the band to their inimitable catchy Pop Rock style after the Disco sounding "Voulez-Vous". Although this was not the last album before the break up, this seemed a fitting end and was their last good album in my opinion. "The Visitors" that followed seemed a bit hollow. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BshxCIjNEjY" width="320" youtube-src-id="BshxCIjNEjY"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE WINNER TAKES IT AL</span><span style="color: #fcff01;">L</span> - A poignant song as everyone knew about the rocky marriages within the band and sensed this was about that. Whether that is true, who knows, Bjorn once denied it. The fact is, its a great song and again reached number 1 in the UK chart. Led by Agnetha on vocals it is emotionally sung and is a major Pop ballad.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8tE0GjSQpes" width="320" youtube-src-id="8tE0GjSQpes"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ON AND ON AND ON</span> - This track is almost popping back to "Voulez-Vous" with its pumping, incessant beat. I think it is more like an 80s Synth Rock song. Love it even though it sounds simplistic in composition and lyrically.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ANDANTE, ANDANTE</span> - Andante technically means "moderately slow" and the song is exactly that. Frida sings lead vocals nicely but this song fails to lift off the ground. It is a nice enough Europop ballad but not great Abba material.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ME AND I</span> - Frida again takes the lead in this sometimes moody, sometimes quirky Synth Pop track. The chorus lifts the song from being just an average Electronic track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HAPPY NEW YEAR</span> - A nice, relaxing, laid back, positive and hopeful sounding Pop track that has featured on many a Christmas/New Year playlist since its release.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">OUR LAST SUMMER</span> - Frida leads this musical-style Pop Rock track that again for me, fails to lift me to any height of glee. It is nice enough but sounds, as I stated, like a musical number for the theatre not an album track. Maybe Benny and Bjorn were experimenting for their later careers writing for musicals!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE PIPER</span> - A big favourite of mine, I remember buying the "Super Trouper" single and yet was playing this B-side on a loop|! I loved to sing along to the chorus and the medieval and Celtic sound of the track got me hooked. Brilliant.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LAY ALL YOUR LOVE ONE ME</span> - Seems to be a favourite with some Abba fans but I am not a great lover of it. Its a decent Disco song but maybe its because I heard the Erasure cover version and it has put me off this track for life. Listening now, although this album is ok, I can see why the band lost track a little with life at the top.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE WAY OLD FRIENDS DO (Live)</span> - A live version from Wembley Arena, London to finish the album. It is very emotional and sounds great live. As I said if this was the last song on the last album before they split it would be a fitting end.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgk1yHHZ0IJMH_cqcqM6DPIjRVBHc-Prl8XN7QtNHEVNZLG3oYGN47m5yFrzSDEMdjYk344XxWFPFLulDQ_40JRWrrA1fiMJNk7sNOGalc8wGLXmLr4SSyfF4qq2QF7ZVg_1NMn2TjtNnvl5g6Ww0CtoVkUm_5DysoB28wAuuKJchYicrOF1Fz65wPE=s600" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="600" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgk1yHHZ0IJMH_cqcqM6DPIjRVBHc-Prl8XN7QtNHEVNZLG3oYGN47m5yFrzSDEMdjYk344XxWFPFLulDQ_40JRWrrA1fiMJNk7sNOGalc8wGLXmLr4SSyfF4qq2QF7ZVg_1NMn2TjtNnvl5g6Ww0CtoVkUm_5DysoB28wAuuKJchYicrOF1Fz65wPE=s320" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b> <span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"THE VISITORS"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1981</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElj4JJlFv1ERgeNgumhqisjTTnpAQ6Me8KaiG-DdVwp9te9TaIgQCd5OjuwwVQp-7K3Bo2Na1FpL34Jp4KMzBrn_Rarr1MLA78IiKEMnmRjJO9FOYFVrcbDbTynD0vc2BgZhgzV0q54nzamlQVjPgpVSzBHjMYO7yFkQ9sSXnv04cj9IGibgmHjug/s700/abba%201981.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElj4JJlFv1ERgeNgumhqisjTTnpAQ6Me8KaiG-DdVwp9te9TaIgQCd5OjuwwVQp-7K3Bo2Na1FpL34Jp4KMzBrn_Rarr1MLA78IiKEMnmRjJO9FOYFVrcbDbTynD0vc2BgZhgzV0q54nzamlQVjPgpVSzBHjMYO7yFkQ9sSXnv04cj9IGibgmHjug/s320/abba%201981.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE VISITORS</span> - The eighth and final album before the band split opens with the title track. Sung by Frida, its actually a great Synth Pop Rock track, reminding me of Ultravox and the like. I did say that "Super Trouper" was the band's fitting last album but this is a track I really like. Sometimes had the subtitle in brackets, "Crackin' Up".</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HEAD OVER HEELS</span> - Only reaching number 25 in the UK chart, thus proving that the band's awesome song catalogue was declining with fans as well as themselves. The song is actually a cool Tango-styled Synth Pop Rock track. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pL2_PZwKDPg" width="320" youtube-src-id="pL2_PZwKDPg"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN ALL IS SAID AND DONE</span> - Almost has a "The Loco-motion" beat when it starts, its a decent enough track but fails to grab the listener. That upbeat promise is distinguished quickly into blandness. Frida takes the lead but cannot lift this to anything more than an average Europop track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SOLDIERS</span> - Agnetha is back on lead vocal duties on this anti-military track. Its a nice Pop track with a moody backdrop but trying to be positive sounding. Some great eerie guitars on this.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">I LET THE MUSIC SPEAK</span> - A big orchestral sounding musical number sung on lead vocals by Frida. Apparently the 5th longest Abba track coming in at 5 minutes 20 seconds. For me, its too long and drawn out and with most of this album, seems like the Abba hit factory had lost its spark.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ONE OF US</span> - Sung by Agnetha, the first single by the band when both couples had divorced and it proved to be their last major hit. Released as the first single from the album, it was a wise move, probably the strongest track in my opinion after "Head Over Heels". It reached number 3 in the UK chart but it was also their last number 1 on the Eurochart. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IIKAe8Wi0S0" width="320" youtube-src-id="IIKAe8Wi0S0"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TWO FOR THE PRICE OF ONE</span> - A quirky mid tempo track, unlike the usual rockier numbers that Bjorn usually takes lead on. It sounds lazy and bored and maybe that's how the band were feeling, despite a couple of good tracks on this album.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SLIPPING THROUGH MY FINGERS</span> - Sadly, another track that fails to lift off the ground. A mediocre Pop ballad beautifully by Agnetha as usual but its not a great song.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LIKE AN ANGEL PASSING THROUGH MY ROOM</span> - A really emotional and sad vocal by Frida over a sparse Acoustic Synth Pop styled track. Its minimal backing allows Frida's vocal to shine on the very last track on Abba albums until 2021's comeback "Voyage". If "Super Trouper" included "The Visitors", "Head Over Heels" and "One Of Us" and that was it, I would have been happier.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5J7KdDpsy4zk9whQOXmngzR3LG-JeSoj1wNG_u1MYU-IBE1ayviLyjgb7lPFhU0kykZSCOWA3RyZr4LP6bPjnxlXAQI020iDZFSY57bEHQ-dyy5owuoVTD7_57l1KWBeIBimCBVfihIqO6UTnhUSxOlMCGsI-85jFjgUe5De14T-nPcgq3eeEEk9/s1500/ABBA%20VOYAGE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5J7KdDpsy4zk9whQOXmngzR3LG-JeSoj1wNG_u1MYU-IBE1ayviLyjgb7lPFhU0kykZSCOWA3RyZr4LP6bPjnxlXAQI020iDZFSY57bEHQ-dyy5owuoVTD7_57l1KWBeIBimCBVfihIqO6UTnhUSxOlMCGsI-85jFjgUe5De14T-nPcgq3eeEEk9/s320/ABBA%20VOYAGE.jpg" width="320" /><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span></span></span></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"> "VOYAGE"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2021</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjTNdFFQ7IfoPYCoJOZ74uBnaM61AgYKTie0JxcPq_kOp4OOdiVukEPnI3F7r9HkcyDJbN6F3b6CKYy5zV7Us0FGv18Ie3iTOm--mv9aZrl_vd8kAhCdSedZk-FeMm1emNR87sFMYggyKXdK7NseulPJSdqDFyXpCWlc0Pa-ITjc_Rb6Tpw7DTSOH/s750/abba9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="750" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjTNdFFQ7IfoPYCoJOZ74uBnaM61AgYKTie0JxcPq_kOp4OOdiVukEPnI3F7r9HkcyDJbN6F3b6CKYy5zV7Us0FGv18Ie3iTOm--mv9aZrl_vd8kAhCdSedZk-FeMm1emNR87sFMYggyKXdK7NseulPJSdqDFyXpCWlc0Pa-ITjc_Rb6Tpw7DTSOH/s320/abba9.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">I STILL HAVE FAITH IN YOU</span> - </b>The lead track from the band's first album in 40 years has Anni-Frid Frida) Lyngstad taking lead vocals. <b> </b>It is unmistakeably Abba but takes time to grow on you. It seems to me more like a musical number but its a nice opener. This reached number 14 in the UK chart.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pAzEY1MfXrQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="pAzEY1MfXrQ"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHEN YOU DANCED WITH ME</span> - </b>This is more like the Abba we know, a bright and breezy almost Folk Europop track with a catchy melody. The girls Agnetha and Frida in perfect unison.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">LITTLE THINGS</span> - </b>A lilting lullaby style song that is a sweet track but not really grabbing you. This only reached number 61 in the UK singles chart when released.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">DON'T SHUT ME DOWN</span> - </b>Released as a dual single with the album opener but this reached number 9 in the UK chart. Sung beautifully by Agnetha this is a return to Abba gold. A catchy chorus and a more upbeat Pop style.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hWGWFa3jznI" width="320" youtube-src-id="hWGWFa3jznI"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">JUST A NOTION</span> - </b>Reaching only number 59 in the UK singles chart this is a new favourite of mine. It is bright and breezy Europop with an infectious melody. Great track that was apparently written for "Voulez-Vous" as a demo!<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">I CAN BE THAT WOMAN</span> - </b>Agnetha takes the vocal reins again on this song. A minimal soft, emotional ballad that is delivered with all what we expect from this iconic band.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">KEEP AN EYE ON DAN</span> - </b>A more 80s sounding Pop with Electronica and Synth Pop leanings. Solid track.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">BUMBLEBEE</span> - </b>One of those almost nonsensical tracks that Abba occasionally throw on albums. This time sung by Frida. It is clearly a filler for an album. Not much going on of note.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">NO DOUBT ABOUT IT</span> - </b>Finally on this album Frida gets a great track to sing vocals on. This is brilliant 80s Pop Electronica. Catchy and with that little glitter that is the Abba brand. Best track on the album!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><b>ODE TO FREEDOM</b></span> - A kind of sombre end to the album, the girls sing vocals that are almost so quiet they are hardly heard and the music is of a closing musical end. On the whole a decent album but could be better.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-12921587749024829702023-08-31T15:19:00.002+00:002023-08-31T15:23:19.607+00:00STONEFIELD - 2013 - 2016 (2 ALBUMS)<div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7iuJg9lZxVLvUX1mqSeSbFEJyNlCrSxLDOcxMiGrK20dVBu8Qpz7QVtRge1ctuli88E25EN4MDht4E6Sr0UfZoQ63omvhWNL_h8LH9DVJRytsam05EbbMPbQt450LCfSxleGIjhNL-U-oQyXeWQ97YyMJBR1-ZRkw6Oc9LUtmu0EqIXooqYHpAogZM7U/s400/stonefield%20stonefield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7iuJg9lZxVLvUX1mqSeSbFEJyNlCrSxLDOcxMiGrK20dVBu8Qpz7QVtRge1ctuli88E25EN4MDht4E6Sr0UfZoQ63omvhWNL_h8LH9DVJRytsam05EbbMPbQt450LCfSxleGIjhNL-U-oQyXeWQ97YyMJBR1-ZRkw6Oc9LUtmu0EqIXooqYHpAogZM7U/s320/stonefield%20stonefield.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><b><span style="color: red;">"STONEFIELD"</span></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><b><span style="color: red;">2013 </span></b></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2v1TtfNdVWNUU13zdYsJU58BS5Sh4iKc_lxcQ2WpKyj0W2EmniPGZsOKXdux4xbG6rC84dLSI1hFZYFxcDXvGMoPINQbwAvhWKs84GPeoO831Pm-65Km_ZS3e42BvXN40cFY5fdwwewSts5Qh1HEWbveU8MhMBPM46_pASzM-R6H-U8Av6CKW0yNOWc/s476/stonefield2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="312" data-original-width="476" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2v1TtfNdVWNUU13zdYsJU58BS5Sh4iKc_lxcQ2WpKyj0W2EmniPGZsOKXdux4xbG6rC84dLSI1hFZYFxcDXvGMoPINQbwAvhWKs84GPeoO831Pm-65Km_ZS3e42BvXN40cFY5fdwwewSts5Qh1HEWbveU8MhMBPM46_pASzM-R6H-U8Av6CKW0yNOWc/s320/stonefield2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">C'MON</span> - This debut album by the female Australian Rock quartet opens with a sassy bluesy style Progressive Rock sound. It is a blistering opener with powerful vocals and crashing guitars and drums reminiscent of the late 60s, early 70s vibe.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE YOU DESERVE</span> - This track has a distinct Classic Rock vibe with a hint of Glam Rock. Another superb track that is akin to an accomplished band of many years but for this young band its incredible.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mvVEpPgIr4Q" width="320" youtube-src-id="mvVEpPgIr4Q"></iframe></div> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PUT YOUR CURSE ON ME</span> - This Led Zeppelin style track packs a punch with some awesome guitars. Another gem.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vYojWhkXVdE" width="320" youtube-src-id="vYojWhkXVdE"></iframe></div> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">OVER AND OVER</span> - A cool, lid back, sleazy backing gives an almost Blues edge to this Classic Rock track. A favourite of mine.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TO THE MOUNTAINS</span> - The first track that has a Pop Rock style and its another slice of mature Rock by the girls. Its a radio friendly track in the vein of Pat Benatar. Class.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DIGGIN' MY WAY OUT</span> - A genre mix of Goth, Progressive and Psychedelic Rock. Pounding drums, eerie vocals and atmospheric crashes of guitars. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HOUSE OF THE LONELY</span> - Straight up Pop Rock with a booming chorus and a relentless guitar led backing track. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN</span> - An anthemic Rock ballad with some searing guitars and sprinkled with softer moments. Could be Stonefield's "November Rain". Awesome.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BABY BLUE</span> - Minimal backing compared to the previous tracks, lyrically not as expansive as other tracks but even the repetitive chorus doesn't detract from a sleazy rocky number that still hits home.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">KEEP ON ROLLIN'</span> - The final track of a fine debut album gives us the first vocal-led track where Amy (I think) gives a powerful and emotive vocal over a limited keyboard backing. Really lovely song.<br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VMn03kQvIjs/X3R8ui9idSI/AAAAAAAAD0E/qHUfhFmll_IwtDOa5dabcDrL5b4ZljdPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/STONEFIELD-1496420394-6792.jpeg.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VMn03kQvIjs/X3R8ui9idSI/AAAAAAAAD0E/qHUfhFmll_IwtDOa5dabcDrL5b4ZljdPgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/STONEFIELD-1496420394-6792.jpeg.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"AS ABOVE, SO BELOW"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2016</b></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweapbzdzXE7a7An9ILhl8hzBmfxHlbfnwCtIoD9R40uLcBRNap8I6jx2UUBkyuwKrSm6RHamiLzx9QAQwE0jXUQUsbP5kl3RM1XBk7m6TjHoF_UREWK7TJglJMducqT8zAVg-7hGUsVzthIXUsT3iTOF7rnUd5ycfHjP33jBdMv7xJvdfSbLoJgSh/s650/stonefield-band-bd1c5d97-9308-47fb-9896-b2ad194436b-resize-750.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="650" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweapbzdzXE7a7An9ILhl8hzBmfxHlbfnwCtIoD9R40uLcBRNap8I6jx2UUBkyuwKrSm6RHamiLzx9QAQwE0jXUQUsbP5kl3RM1XBk7m6TjHoF_UREWK7TJglJMducqT8zAVg-7hGUsVzthIXUsT3iTOF7rnUd5ycfHjP33jBdMv7xJvdfSbLoJgSh/s320/stonefield-band-bd1c5d97-9308-47fb-9896-b2ad194436b-resize-750.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SISTER</span> - The Aussie foursome of sisters Amy, Hannah, Holly and Sarah open up their second album with a bang. It's an almost Gothic Progressive Rock track with its dark undertones and moody effects. Hannah does her best Ozzy doom and gloom vocals to good effect. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><b> </b><span style="color: #fcff01;">DREAM</span> - Ironically this has a dreamy kind of vibe going on. Its a 70s Psychedelic Rock ride with elements of 90s<b> </b>Grunge. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CHANGES</span> - Love this track, it reminds me of Bangles with some great melodious riffs and sultry Susannah Hoffs-like vocals. Great Pop Rock with some slightly heavier moments hidden in the track especially towards the end. Super track and shows the girls' growing maturity and musical knowledge.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LOVE</span> - Another Bangles-type track, but a little more mellow than the previous track. Really nice song and some pure guitar! The interplay between the guitar and keyboards is rather beautiful.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STRANGER</span> - Classic Rock track reminiscent of early Heart. Rock genres combine, a little Classic, a little Progressive and a little Heavy. An awesome track.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YsPcY9Z2W8g" width="320" youtube-src-id="YsPcY9Z2W8g"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">EYES</span> - The girls have mastered the art of merging sounds, the keyboards section around the 3 minute minute is pure 60s inspired Psychedelic Rock flower power style. The rest of the track is Progressive and Classic Rock intertwined. Class.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HIGHER</span> - This track reminds me of early Berlin, making that crossover between Pop and Hard Rock, another gem.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MIDNIGHT</span> - A Dream Pop style song akin to a Sc-Fi movie backdrop. Its a laid back, easy listening song that gives you an image of some space age future. Nice.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_-Htb0YOreg" width="320" youtube-src-id="_-Htb0YOreg"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">LONELY</span> - A quite moody but somehow emotional and uplifting track with its core backing music very Middle Eastern or Asian. A really great, mature Rock ballad.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">EAGLE</span> - An effects laden, mysterious, eerie track to finish. It is veru medieval to start and dreamy and then turns into something quite dark and gothic. The girls are not afraid to experiment and test their skills so as not to be a one trick pony. Great sequel to "Stonefield" the debut album.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-64812846785661716812023-08-29T14:23:00.000+00:002023-08-29T14:23:13.433+00:00510JAZZ - 2015 - 2020 (3 ALBUMS)<div><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZejfticO9I/X5l_O35-iXI/AAAAAAAAD7o/ATKBBsTvjnMdTLA9HEy1N08glYHiUprkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1491/cd_cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1491" data-original-width="1491" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZejfticO9I/X5l_O35-iXI/AAAAAAAAD7o/ATKBBsTvjnMdTLA9HEy1N08glYHiUprkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/cd_cover.jpg" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"BOSSA510"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">2015</span></span> </b></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1aWC8nJbW5WeYSBW2n0-m67jXo9BuE7disUzUmHn0SUn_VFb4uY1dumrrwlOE5q__EJIMR6s-aqpYVTM_VymLTtzNXf-0-tNWweMH1XXjGcCgua0GxnbvWJk83PWn4lavwQuVGxiglME4Ap24Z354H9EaIfKi0ABRdE0yK0kELLpI8n6t6_Hmorqt/s768/john_and_david-about_us-768x326.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="768" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1aWC8nJbW5WeYSBW2n0-m67jXo9BuE7disUzUmHn0SUn_VFb4uY1dumrrwlOE5q__EJIMR6s-aqpYVTM_VymLTtzNXf-0-tNWweMH1XXjGcCgua0GxnbvWJk83PWn4lavwQuVGxiglME4Ap24Z354H9EaIfKi0ABRdE0yK0kELLpI8n6t6_Hmorqt/s320/john_and_david-about_us-768x326.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">BOSSA510</span> - The debut album from John Vargas' all star multi-talented ensemble kicks off with a funky bass and guitar intro which moves into Jazz Funk seamlessly incorporating some 90s style Hip Hop. David Vargas (known as D-Varg and John's son) provides the cool, summery rapping while R n' b star Jamillions provides some chilled vocals. It would almost be the perfect Pop song but the twist of Randy Merril's flugelhorn makes it just that little bit more unique.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SA0VqhdlauI" width="320" youtube-src-id="SA0VqhdlauI"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">COME WITH ME</span> - A delightful Latin Jazz style track that again infuses Rap and the Bossa style. A lot slower pace than the previous track with some beautiful Soul vocals from Nikki Rey fronting a lisght, laid back backing. D-Varg again provides the Rap sections while Nikki harmonises in support. A really nice chilled song. Actually reminds me a little of LL Cool J tracks from the late 80s.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vbruL2WAOMs" width="320" youtube-src-id="vbruL2WAOMs"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">OCEAN BREEZE</span> - Feeling like you are chilling out on a beach taking in the cool breeze in Summer. The superb Jazz horns from Randy Merril (flugelhorn) and Esther Berndt (sazophone) carry the feeling and emotion throughout the song with sophisticated crooning vocals from Jamillions.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ASILOMAR</span> - An unusual, ethereal backing track consisting of flute, guitar and chimes. It seems quite sad but somehow Nikki Rey's sultry, chanteuse vocals seem to convey positive emotions and a calming effect. Nice.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">STRANGER IN BRAZIL</span> - The first composition written by John Vargas after being convinced by his son David to write. A quirky and light track with a hint of Funk and sounding like a summertime jam. The song is about a guy travelling to Rio De Janeiro and searching for this mysterious girl he fell in love with. Bystanders and passers by just see him as the Stranger In Brazil. Percussion and horns mesh with one another to provide a sweet backing for John Vargas' vocals.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">MAUI MOON</span> - A beautiful Pop love song with Nikki Rey and Jamillions duetting this time. The title reflects John Vargas' 30th wedding anniversary trip to K'anapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii. A smooth jazzy Pop ride which undoubtedly makes the listener feel good and also has special memories for John too.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">RAINY DAY IN BORACAY</span> - Jamillions takes the vocal role again on this deceptively upbeat, but eerie track. The moody "rain" soaked backing makes it unusually a little sad and also positive. Mark Rickey's synths give it an extra boost giving off a stormy backdrop.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">NIGHT ON REDFISH LAKE</span> - Vocal duties turn to John Vargas as he takes on the role of a smoky bar room crooner. This piano led, emotional and almost strange backing gives off the feeling of quiet wonderment. It apparently evokes memories of John and his son Andrew seeing the stars being reflected on a lake. This laid back Jazz ballad is a nice, relaxing trip.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SUMMER TAKE ME AWAY</span> - Vocalist Oshra Sedan leads this fusion track that is a little R n' B, a little Motown and a little Jazz. Its a delightfully chirpy, upbeat song despite it being provoked by feelings of sadness after a vacation has ended. This track is supposed to encapsulate that feeling of excitement and positivity of a coming vacation and how quickly it should come, I imagine!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">ATLANTIS LOST</span> - A smooth, typical Jazz track that is a tribute to John Vargas; grandfather, Antonio Francisco Vargas. Jamillions takes on the vocals in this poignant story of everyone missing their "Atlantis", the place they had to leave to find themselves or find something better for their families or their future. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">SUNDOWN IN PACIFICA</span> - An upbeat Latin Jazz track vocalised by Nikki Rey once again. Reminds me of Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine in style. Its slightly funky, latin dance backing give it an uplifting feel.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">CAFE IN LEBLON</span> - A chirpy, slightly Pop style Jazz track with some cool vocals from John Vargas. I love the flute and piano in this track. The song was inspired by Brazil's legendary songwriting duo Antonio Carlos Jobim and Vinicius De Moraes. They wrote the song "The Girl From Ipanema". The song reflects on how it could have been in 1962 to write the leading Bossa Nova anthem. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">FOUNTAINS OF YOUTH</span> - Vocals by Jamillions and backing vocals by John Vargas on this Jazz ballad. The hint of Latin percussion is here and the horn and piano lead the song to the usual smooth Jazz heights.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE BAY TRAIL</span> - Nikki Rey leads the song that is a nice fusion of 60s style Bossa and almost sounding like gentle, summery Trip Hop reminding me a little of Morcheeba. The percussion seemingly sounds a little off beat at times, not a continual beat which cleverly adds to the track's ambience. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HIGHWAY 1</span> - A lovely, light Acoustic ballad led by Tony Song's beautiful classical guitar. Inspired by the amazing California coast highway, Highway 1. Jamillions' vocals are emotional, heartfelt and uplifting. Close your eyes and relax to this one.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">DAY IS DONE</span> - An epic classic Jazz break up song finishes this debut album with 5 and a half minutes of stunning, sultry, emotion from Nikki Rey's vocals. Esther Berndt's saxophone enhances the feeling of the track. A fascinating first album which can delight both Bossa fans and other genres' listeners. </p><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2018</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">RIGHT NEXT TO ME (Featuring Matt Blaque/D-Varg)</span> - The album opens with a medium paced Samba crossover with a big summery vibe. It is a fun, bright and breezy number with hints of Michael Jackson ("Off The Wall" era) and Gloria Estefan's Miami Sound Machine. D-Varg's rapping gives it an updated appeal to younger listeners who may not have heard music like this before.</div>
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HE MADE IT ALL FOR YOU (Featuring Ricki Wegner)</span> - A kind of Pop/Jazz feel to this track. Its an easy going song and Ricki's vocals have that beautiful pure live sound of Norah Jones and also reminds me of the 80s band Matt Bianco in its style. The minimal backing showcase the vocals brilliantly and make for a soothing chilled gem.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">PLAY SOMETHING BLUE (Featurung Maya Victoria/D-Varg) </span>- This is reminiscent for me of the Trip Hop downtempo fusion of 90s band Morcheeba. Maya's breathy vocals imitating the band's lead singer Skye are perfect for this track and with D-Varg sounding like LL Cool J its a great track. A chillout session to refresh the soul!</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE MOON AND YOU (Featuring John Vargas)</span> - A serenading romantic ballad with all the attention on that special someone. The faint Bossa backing with strings and horns more in control it reminds me of the Rat Pack guys like Sinatra, Martin and Davis Jr where its the lyrics and vocals that take centre stage. If you dream of just you and your partner in an empty bar and the band serenades the words you want to say, this is the song for you!</div>
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DON'T TAKE YOUR LOVE AWAY ( Featuring Kristen Nicole/Nick Neira)</span> - This tells the story of a long distance love affair and would be a great piece for a romantic musical where the two leads share their feelings towards each other alternately. Simple composition but it is a lovely song, with Kristen and Nick singing it beautifully with great emotion.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PlksavZIsTw/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PlksavZIsTw?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">FLY AWAY ( Featurung Nikki Rey)</span> - Another Pop/Jazz track, and again it fills the listener with a cool, relaxed summer sensation. This time there is a Hawaiian element in the sound and you feel your head nodding to that Bossa beat and see yourself under a parasol drinking cocktails. A really lovely song</div>
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STORMY WEATHER (Feauring Ricki Wegner/D-Varg)</span> - A slow tempo R n' B/Soul crossover with the Hip Hop vibe once again ably given by D-Varg. It reminds me of a couple of songs by Beyonce and her husband, Jay-Z. A positive message that all will be ok however bad it sometimes feels. The positive rap reminds me of Old School rap by originals Grandmaster Flash and Melle Mel not the angry rap that is more often heard today.</div>
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YOU'RE EVERYTHING TO ME (Featuring Maya Victoria)</span> - Maya sings like a chanteuse in a local smoky bar here, with some lovely harmonies and doubled up vocals it sails along smoothly like a relaxing boat ride. Silky Saxophone and sweet strings make this another soft ballad to relax to.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE LONG WAY HOME (Featuring Mr Mego/Kristen Nicole)</span> - An exploration driving trip on a relaxing Saturday is the backdrop to this track. Again this would be another brilliant idea for a musical piece. The lady and gentleman in question decide on taking "the long way home" as we all sometimes want to do, just to enjoy the scenery, drive at a leisurely pace and ignore the honking of the roadhogs in a rush! Beautifully sing once again and the backing music has a faint chug-a-chug feel of a moving car. Very nice.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">SAN JUAN ISLAND SUNSET (Featuring Oshra Sedan) </span>- A real Latin influenced Jazz track. Brings up images of sitting on a beach with not a care in the world, not only just brought up by the title of the track. The horns and strings make this a happy little track that gives you a good feeling of wellbeing.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">VIEWS FROM MY WINDOW (Featuring Matt Blaque/D-Varg)</span> - A mass fusion of styles inorporating Hip Hop, Jazz and a little R n' B but still keeping that minimal Bossa drumbeat. Experimental and in some ways reminds of me of some of Prince's mid 80s phase with orchestration, electronics and Jazz mixes.</div>
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THE ROCK OF LIGHT (Featuring Mr Mego)</span> - A look into what it might have been like in Malaga when King Ferdinand was assaulted in 1487, a major battle in the reconquest of Spain from the Moorish Invaders. With dark overtones such as this the song is obviously downtempo and with minimal flamenco-esque backing it reminds me of a Stevie Wonder positivity track.</div>
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SERENDIPITY (Featuring Oshra Sedan/Mr Mego)</span> - A laid back track about leaving the everyday struggles behind and travelling the world. Just like "Don't Take Your Love Away" and "The Long Way Home" this is a perfect song for a musical piece. I wonder if the band would consider turning this album into a musical, with the right people it could be great!</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">LIFT IT UP TO GOD (Featuring Nik Nak/Ricki Wegner)</span> - An upbeat Latin Jazz track that gives a positive message that no matter what is happening you are not alone. The song has a great Soul and R n' B vibe that reminds me of classic late 60s/early 70s laid back Pop artists.</div>
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HORTENSIA (Featuring Nick Neira)</span> - Minimal musical style track with some aspects of it being of a mystical style, with the flower in question (the official flower of Faial Island in the Azores) having a mysterious, soothing effect on the singer. Experimental vocals including doubled up echoes and faint chants. Unusual track!</div>
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JANUARY 16 (Featuring Rick Wagner/Matt Blaque)</span> - The album ends with the title track, which is quite unusual from the albums I have reviewed thus far. A tribute to a beloved mother and grandmother, Jesusa Estrada Cerezo. Ironically the only track where the Bossa beat is almost hidden, this is the most Pop sounding and modern track on the album. Could be easily placed within the 70s and 80s R n' B and Pop Soul of these eras' superstars. Lovely end to an intriguing album.</div>
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Oshra Sedan's vocals are lush and pure and lift the seasonal Spring feeling to even bigger heights. The strings give an almost bird song melody, which is perfect as the song is about a visiting Hummingbird to a garden. The rhythm is nice and slightly upbeat, giving an almost Ska or Reggae hint on the Jazz feel. <br /><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br />BACK HOME (Featuring Anna Konstantopoulos)</span> - A smoky Jazz bar ballad with Anna Konstantopoulos taking lead vocals in a breathy, sultry style reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe. The flute takes centre stage with the singer and gives a slight Trip Hop feel to the track. It is easy going, light, dreamy and uplifting all at the same time. Nice, relaxing listen. <br /><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br />FATAL ATTRACTION (Featuring Maya Victoria and Matt Blaque)</span> - This track is duet between Maya Victoria and Matt Blaque. A smooth, upbeat ballad which reminds me of some 80s style Latin influenced tracks by bands such as Miami Sound Machine. It also adds hints of Hip Hop effects and gives a "musical" soundtrack feel as well as some delightful guitar.<br /><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br />CALLED TO THE SEA (Featuring Oshra Sedan</span>) - Oshra Sedan again takes the vocal lead and this time drops the tone down to a more moodier level. It has an almost Folk vibe running through with the strings giving just that little bit of eerie ambience. The song teases often that the mood will lift to a brighter tone but just keeps itself in check to a steady melancholic feel. A nice, soulful track suiting Oshra's vocals perfectly.<br /><span style="color: #fcff01;"><br />SUMMER RAIN (Featuring Anna Konstantopoulos) </span>- A bouncy, moderateley upbeat track about the enjoyment and feelings of a thundery rainfall in the Summer season. Pure, easy going Jazz with an uplift. Anna Konstantopoulos gives a more bright and breezy Pop vocal to this track, ironically as it is about rain! The Saxophone makes it a smooth ride and the soulful vocals merging with the backing track effortlessly give it more depth.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mRZeerFQqx4" width="320" youtube-src-id="mRZeerFQqx4"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><span style="color: #fcff01;">THREE LITTLE WORDS (Featuring Maya Victoria, Matt Blaque and D-Varg)</span> - A cute, quirky and sweet melodic ballad about two new sweethearts in love. Maya Victoria and Matt Blaque provide the duet while D-Varg adds some Rap to give it a Trip Hop feel. Reminds me a lot of some 80s R n' B/Soul songs. It has the most Pop feel than some of the other tracks. It's modern and a radio friendly hit for sure.<br /><br /><span style="color: #fcff01;">THE BOSSA NOVA (Featuring John Vargas and D-Varg)</span> - A spoken word marrative over a Bossa Nova rhythm by John Vargas (singer/songwriter and producer) and son David Vargas (rapper aka D-Varg, songwriter and engineer). Although not technically a "song" as such it is an interesting tribute by two guys who obviously grew up listening to Bossa Nova and now give a fitting tribute to the genre with this album of their own. A nice commentary ending to a cool album that can propel this brand of Jazz/Latin based music to new listeners.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qkAT1oWx0Z0" width="320" youtube-src-id="qkAT1oWx0Z0"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-27196631320887339802023-08-26T14:42:00.001+00:002023-08-26T14:42:48.561+00:00STEEL BLOSSOMS - 2019 (1 ALBUM)<div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMg9hX7MXNh5OHWL2v3JGgWP_0zfYjpXlH9jDi6G3loB2yoSSPQGSZQbhNf6S_JtNtNKQr5Yh0DD6XrrNnuqA2Yl-dNIDa2qRQ2qDS5NUJFjjdaFipp9cM6hgJ4dwrZR9teJdIoIlDmdP38qEMltRMh5pTSgFcnTPM8mwgbkEWCbt6lf1rafsbYlhA=s748" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="748" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMg9hX7MXNh5OHWL2v3JGgWP_0zfYjpXlH9jDi6G3loB2yoSSPQGSZQbhNf6S_JtNtNKQr5Yh0DD6XrrNnuqA2Yl-dNIDa2qRQ2qDS5NUJFjjdaFipp9cM6hgJ4dwrZR9teJdIoIlDmdP38qEMltRMh5pTSgFcnTPM8mwgbkEWCbt6lf1rafsbYlhA=s320" width="320" /></a></b></div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b> "STEEL BLOSSOMS"</b></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>2019</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UMbI5Zhcs8qLttsWheZQhe1pEkxb6mfOmSgT_vvqViGCiAPCOqjwZqJ6RFf3Yno1dCNnfMBnoBWE03HkptnzZN7QMwQlquXIsJn8No2eyHrquv2qvQkrdDRzXt_Z1Cg_d38F6s7DaQyYkbQcO7IPyPijbBjVZhf27ebjcXwXw4l0MKbm1v7J9H9L/s640/1160878_web1_shr-steelblossoms-052319.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7UMbI5Zhcs8qLttsWheZQhe1pEkxb6mfOmSgT_vvqViGCiAPCOqjwZqJ6RFf3Yno1dCNnfMBnoBWE03HkptnzZN7QMwQlquXIsJn8No2eyHrquv2qvQkrdDRzXt_Z1Cg_d38F6s7DaQyYkbQcO7IPyPijbBjVZhf27ebjcXwXw4l0MKbm1v7J9H9L/s320/1160878_web1_shr-steelblossoms-052319.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">YOU'RE THE REASON I DRINK</span> - Sara Zebley and Hayley Prosser are Steel Blossoms bringing the Country back with their self titled album. The opening track is a jaunty, happy number that belies its pretty harsh lyrics about becoming an alcoholic thanks to a lover! These ladies kick it hard Country style but they aren't afraid of provocative lyrics. Great opening track of classic old style Country.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZwG6jZwZ0Dg" width="320" youtube-src-id="ZwG6jZwZ0Dg"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">REVENGE</span> - Such a beautiful track, almost a 60s style Progressive Rock track. There is an element of Gothic imagery with the melancholic, moody stance. The vocals are exquisite with such emotion and its a diverse change from the opening track. Very cool.</p><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VJaQB_cKcu8" width="320" youtube-src-id="VJaQB_cKcu8"></iframe></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">TRAILER NEIGHBOR</span> - This track takes us back to Country and a quirky, humorous description of the gossiping trailer neighbour. Its funny and a bright song with a sweet chorus and great melodies.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">COUNTY LINE</span> - Another slower tempo track, and another gorgeously sung song. It has an almost Blues feel and hints at Americana. This is an exceptional track and I really love this. Emotional and poignant and cool.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">PICK ME UP</span> - Pure Country Blues for this track, its catchy chorus and upbeat backing give this a great feel. Some awesome guitar work here.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">INNOCENT</span> - A sparse musical backing accompanies lovely emotive vocals. A Country Pop ballad with bags of melancholy, reminding me of Olivia Newton-John in her 70s Country phase.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">YOU 'AIN'T SLEEPING OVER</span> - A lover isn't sleeping over unless a ring is put on the lady's finger! This is an uptempo straight up twangy Country number and remind me of some of Leann Rimes' early work. Love it.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">HEROINE</span> - This really lovely ballad tells the heartbreaking story of a drug addiction. It is brutal in its lyrics but its composition is really lovely and poignant. Steel Blossoms give it you straight.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">KILLED A MAN</span> - Country Pop at its best hinting at the style of Dixie Chicks. Another gem in this set from these talented ladies.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">KENTUCKY'S NEVER BEEN THIS FAR FROM TENNESSEE</span> - This album finishes at it began with a traditional Country ballad. Lamenting a lover being far away and being missed this is a beautifully sung track with that "pure live" sound coming out from the speakers. Great album.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"> <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-15346820957134416342023-08-26T14:40:00.001+00:002023-08-26T14:40:49.094+00:00MARILLION - 1983 - 1984 (2 ALBUMS)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"SCRIPT FOR A JESTER'S TEAR"</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">HE KNOWS YOU KNOW</span> - A slow almost Pop Rock track changes after some angry, anguished vocals from lead singer Fish before the 2 and a half minute mark when the glorious anthemic guitar solos and faster drumbeats kick in. The Medieval style vocals and chants are here that make it just a little more awesome.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/aqTv-eOmHJM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aqTv-eOmHJM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">THE WEB</span> - A slow to mid tempo Rock ballad, with some awesome keyboard and guitar solos. More Electronic Rock than the previous two tracks but no less anthemic. A variety of Fish vocals complement the unsusual array of backing instruments superbly. </div>
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GARDEN PARTY</span> - The magnificent second single in all its full glory of 7 minutes plus. A fabulous melody throughout, sometimes portrayed by guitars and drums and then keyboards. The "pom pom pom" pounding drumbeat and guitar on the verses is superb. This is a pure Classic Rock/Progressive Rock. The song that introduced me to Marillion and kept me enthralled until Fish left the band.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/nGMvpPAaAWM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nGMvpPAaAWM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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CHELSEA MONDAY</span> - A typical Progressive Rock ballad, the slow tempo and atmospheric, dramatic sound backs up Fish's emotive vocals in excellent fashion. A classy piece of Rock and sounds even better in headphones, the sound encompasses you.</div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">FORGOTTEN SONS</span> - The album ends with lots of effects, eerie chants, screams and various dialogue over a similar backing to Garden Party at one point. The track alters its tempo throughout and is a very experimental and strange track. There are Classic Rock elements but its mostly quite weird. Still, it ends a pretty fantastic debut album.</div>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAemJHm2vJk6trL5O-7JmfHrv8MskRiD5-tLRaPtDO4gobShl7vav7Q4RpTmBMSVyWdwxloM3T25OYiZcZR8-ZOoFmRzfL-psojODCboB0-qXc7EIEpMFkRBvS6qZ6gWZy3tK5jqJooz-B7NjIKgBKHmOIfY98AKgTwnevpcWrWsfBsts0QGNATOS/s300/Marillion_-_Fugazi.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAemJHm2vJk6trL5O-7JmfHrv8MskRiD5-tLRaPtDO4gobShl7vav7Q4RpTmBMSVyWdwxloM3T25OYiZcZR8-ZOoFmRzfL-psojODCboB0-qXc7EIEpMFkRBvS6qZ6gWZy3tK5jqJooz-B7NjIKgBKHmOIfY98AKgTwnevpcWrWsfBsts0QGNATOS/s1600/Marillion_-_Fugazi.jpg" width="300" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b> <span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;">"FUGAZI"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1984</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA386PinbQ8hmDs7lrgfEBcUw9NAU9WMu3Cdro6OvbtWkq_mnJWHhFKjdriZwi6AAiyrp_3PczGxB2VHQTxcA9D-yTnmtx1ff98VVTrxJf6FyVE_3HtC-11u4WteV1ktVGhZY2xUNkidOM0KTc4plKC23wW2bey1cVkchXgZ42-NrLzUoWDI-soEE/s1280/marillion2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA386PinbQ8hmDs7lrgfEBcUw9NAU9WMu3Cdro6OvbtWkq_mnJWHhFKjdriZwi6AAiyrp_3PczGxB2VHQTxcA9D-yTnmtx1ff98VVTrxJf6FyVE_3HtC-11u4WteV1ktVGhZY2xUNkidOM0KTc4plKC23wW2bey1cVkchXgZ42-NrLzUoWDI-soEE/s320/marillion2.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">ASSASSING</span> - </b>The band's second studio album opens with their second single from the set. It reached number 22 in the UK chart. A big and brash anthemic track that combines their unique Progressive style with Classic Rock and a pounding drumbeat. A powerful chorus and various vocals in his own inimitable style from Fish. A brilliant track and a big favourite of mine.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iIOjah-bnDc" width="320" youtube-src-id="iIOjah-bnDc"></iframe></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">PUNCH AND JUDY</span> - </b>The debut single from this album that reached number 29 on the UK chart. This is a more familiar modern Progressive Rock track with its medieval styled backing. Still has a catchy chorus but its not as radio-friendly as the opening track but a classic to Marillion fans.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OlEvEvR9GQQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="OlEvEvR9GQQ"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">JIGSAW</span> - </b>A lovely slow ballad kicking into a mini Progressive Rock opera. So many changes in the song and vocals make this a brilliant experimental 6 minute jam. Keeps you captivated to the last.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">EMERALD LIES</span> - </b>A mild, sprinkling soft intro until just after two minutes in when it kicks off into eeriness. The dark, weird backing threw me off this track, it had started so nice. Not a favourite.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">SHE CHAMELEON</span> - </b>Soft vocals from Fish throughout with screeching guitars giving it a very Gothic Rock vibe.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">INCUBUS</span> - </b>A variety of angry and calm vocals front an indulgent and uninspiring slow Progressive Rock backing, and at 8 minutes plus this is far too long to keep my attention.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">FUGAZI </span>- </b>A great epic Rock trip to finish the album. With spoken parts, effects and a pounding backing with hints of Progressive, Classic and Gothic Rock. Superb end to the album with a little of everything that was Fish's Marillion.<br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-835695430935114008.post-15459914973167531872023-08-26T14:18:00.003+00:002023-08-26T14:18:55.840+00:00RUSH - 1974 -1977 (2 ALBUMS)<div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyyIN5qrjuvdhw0WR3cBEXqxjtKPzl5PYOkpauEwNgjajHEQ8LmTV0peL-wYWhLFlb2bVUdg3iaZYV80wVdfFQdvYasTeNHQqGlBGfbCQRogxeAKElTxOV6oRgdzV3CibtNWdshV0cnQVQpYTshzwsfZkzy1W27antblngrgeVyZZsDL8Dlhx-ai3/s300/rush%20rush.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyyIN5qrjuvdhw0WR3cBEXqxjtKPzl5PYOkpauEwNgjajHEQ8LmTV0peL-wYWhLFlb2bVUdg3iaZYV80wVdfFQdvYasTeNHQqGlBGfbCQRogxeAKElTxOV6oRgdzV3CibtNWdshV0cnQVQpYTshzwsfZkzy1W27antblngrgeVyZZsDL8Dlhx-ai3/s1600/rush%20rush.jpg" width="300" /></a></b></div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"> "RUSH"</span></span></b></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1974</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupbcr6I5Fkh9hSx-Jdq2BaK6St2nHtoF6zyqsqJOGQ9lGCdqvzFwfi_eKtyMYusnspKYI4_o22lyKleyXc1XRj0xOTpk1JjjRg3VVYJ0-nKB2dDkqJd0lWQoYeD_NFIg8pdiVMJbty6Vb37z_HKBCAKz-rjjIn_wLozR52YDvvqkPXXIKwp3GMeW8/s728/rush2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="482" data-original-width="728" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupbcr6I5Fkh9hSx-Jdq2BaK6St2nHtoF6zyqsqJOGQ9lGCdqvzFwfi_eKtyMYusnspKYI4_o22lyKleyXc1XRj0xOTpk1JjjRg3VVYJ0-nKB2dDkqJd0lWQoYeD_NFIg8pdiVMJbty6Vb37z_HKBCAKz-rjjIn_wLozR52YDvvqkPXXIKwp3GMeW8/s320/rush2.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b></b><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">FINDING MY WAY</span> - </b>The band's debut album consists of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and John Rutsey (soon to leave the band after this album and replaced on drums by the more familiar Neil Peart). This opening track is atorming intro with a Led Zeppelin style, screeching vocals, searing guitar solos and pulsating drums. Wake up, Rush are here!The first single from the set failed to chart in the UK.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iLoUGYxR0uM" width="320" youtube-src-id="iLoUGYxR0uM"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">NEED SOME LOVE</span> - </b>This track is a straight up rocker, with elements of Rock 'n Roll and deep lazy Blues. More catchy than most Rush songs and has that "radio-friendly" appeal. It also has a slight Punk vibe.<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">TAKE A FRIEND</span> - </b>Another catchy track with more Classic Rock leanings and heavy sounding Pop. I love the ZZ Top style bluesy guitars here. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">HERE AGAIN</span> - </b>An emotional, powerful slow Blues Rock track until about halfway then the guitars get heavier and it ends with a crescendo of Blues, Classic and Progressive Rock.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">WHAT YOU'RE DOING</span> - </b>Another Led Zeppelin-inspired track, heavy on the guitar solos and crashing drums with the vocals almost taking second place. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">IN THE MOOD</span> - </b>The second single again failed to chart, which is surprising. Its pretty much New Wave Pop Rock, wiht a little nod to Glam Rock. Cool track for me this one.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZcfnGaX-BdQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="ZcfnGaX-BdQ"></iframe></div> <p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">BEFORE AND AFTER</span> -</b> This tarts off with a really lush, melodious intro before kicking in the Hard Rock Blues at a frenetic pace at about 2 and a half minutes. <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #fcff01;">WORKING MAN</span> - </b>The album ends on one of my favourite Rush tracks. Lyrically it may not be the best but this guitar parts are awesome. Basically this song encapsulates Rush in one foul swoop.</p><div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>"A FAREWELL TO KINGS" </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: red;"><b>1977</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylCtxq0KRkBPXiKU1qb1lXa0LRI-JKgKs1kldOCy04qscYUsfzAgJ9F0Pr-1wLh45adkztIGfEYvolWNwi3ArbO_9nS99cTitaHVoaZ0u06EZbrJWAMG9jDKZ8K0_8S5k7SXkN1Ath8Xbm5VfHgiTROjGK27yfRxxC7uCZfWXeg3R1__S3EEbQoFe/s1192/rush1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="1192" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylCtxq0KRkBPXiKU1qb1lXa0LRI-JKgKs1kldOCy04qscYUsfzAgJ9F0Pr-1wLh45adkztIGfEYvolWNwi3ArbO_9nS99cTitaHVoaZ0u06EZbrJWAMG9jDKZ8K0_8S5k7SXkN1Ath8Xbm5VfHgiTROjGK27yfRxxC7uCZfWXeg3R1__S3EEbQoFe/s320/rush1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">A FAREWELL TO KINGS</span> - Geddy Lee's vocals are a little Marmite, you either love them or hate them, a bit like Axl Rose of Guns N' Roses, sometime screeching to full volume. This opening track starts off a little medieval before rising in volume and pace with searing guitars and crashing drums. At just after the 3 minute mark there's even room for a little kind of funky instrumental interlude with slap bass smashing into full on Classic Rock mode. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/eV-5iNu6Sd8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eV-5iNu6Sd8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">XANADU</span> - This has its very mysterious opening with gradual Progressive guitar building in stature. The vocals don't come in until around 5 minutes in so its basically a musician's masterclass. As with most Rush songs it sounds like there is so much going on and so many instruments battling for supremacy. It ebbs and flows with Heavy Rock leanings to Acoustic and it keeps you enthralled.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #fcff01;">CLOSER TO THE HEART</span> - One of the songs I heard my brother playing and strted me listening to this band more. An absolute cracker of a song. The chorus can be sung along and its probably a rare outing for Rush to do basic Classic Rock track that fits radio but it is a classic.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DDRPtg0kmJU" width="320" youtube-src-id="DDRPtg0kmJU"></iframe></div><br />
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<span style="color: #fcff01;">CINDERELLA MAN</span> - Not a big favourite of mine, but it has a nice, steady chorus and at 2 minutes or so there's a great druma and guitar battle with a searing guitar solo. not as melodious as the previous tracks for me.</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #fcff01;">M</span><span style="color: #fcff01;">ADRIGAL</span> - A really lovely song, great emotional vocals from Geddy, a slow tempo Rock ballad, only 2 minutes 35 and I wish it was longer, I really like this track.</div>
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CYGNUS X-1 BOOK 1:THE VOYAGE (PROLOGUE,1,2,3)</span> - A 10 minute epic to finish the album. Very sci-fi and mysterious. Apparently about a character looking round his spaceship at the centre of a Black Hole. More synths and effects in this track with the usual Rush guitar and drums base. At times mysterious, eerie with little snippets of Punk, Classic Rock and sometimes manic vocals from Geddy.</div>
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