Woof

What was Kelis thinking? This is part of her album artwork, and not a photoshop statement made by a disgruntled fan. Seriously…

Live: Jamie Lidell at 229 The Venue

I love Jamie Lidell. He’s just amazing in my eyes. Some people ooze musical talent without even trying, and he’s one of them. I was really looking forward to seeing him tonight, and he didn’t let me down in the slightest. His drummer was out of this world, and he had loads of funny machines that made sounds I’d never heard before in my life. I left the 229 a happier man, with a spring in my step and a tune in my head. Above is the live version of my favourite track on his new album, Compass, called ‘Your Sweet Boom’. It doesn’t sound anything like the recorded version- but then that’s not Jamie’s style!

Sugarcubes vs Diana Vickers

Sugarcubes (i.e. Baby Bjork) had a little hit called ‘Hit’ back in 1991. That same year, a girl called Diana Vickers was born who ended up being on the UK’s X Factor a couple of years ago. If Norah Jones was a cat, she would sound like Diana Vickers. Diana didn’t win the X Factor, but she ended up making an album anyway that was released earlier this month (which got to number 1, and I must admit, I did buy it… sorry… it was made by Guy Sigsworth and Ellie Goulding and I couldn’t resist). Diana has a cover of ‘Hit’ on her album, which I actually really like. See which one you prefer…

Is this song too cool for Eurovision?

This is Estonia’s entry for Eurovision this year. Word is going round that this is too underground to do well. Say what you want about Eurovision, but every so often it makes people aware that there’s other countries out there that like to experiment with music. I kinda like it.

Jamie Lidell – Compass : Best record of the year so far

I brought Jamie Lidell’s new album, Compass, yesterday and it’s all I’ve been listening to all day. This guy can do no wrong! It’s a cross between soul, blues, a little bit of soft electro and that unique Beck beat (Beck produced Compass). I’m seeing Jamie play in London tommorrow, so excited! Check out here.

Live: Active Child at Relentless Garage Upstairs

I went to see Active Child at the Relentless Garage Upstairs a couple of nights ago but only just managed to upload this clip just now (my videos take ages to load on Youtube- but I guess the sound quality is pretty good no?).

The music was kinda stunning, and he played around with a mini harp which is always good ‘When Your Love is Safe’ is so far my favourite track of his, but he also played another track that was really upbeat but I couldn’t figure out what it was called. Anyway, if you get a chance to see him, go do it! Cold Cave were supporting and left my ears ringing for ages after; but ‘Theme from Tomorrowland’ blew me away.

Live: Hurts at the NME Radar Tour at Koko

I was really excited about seeing Hurts perform for the first time in a big venue- they’ve been the talk of blogs since last year and they were super good. The whole set was just really swish (does anyone use that word anymore?). Everything Everything were also sharing the top bill but I wasn’t so keen on them, although Photoshop Handsome was loads of fun. I feel like they try to do too much at the same time. Darwin Deez was supporting, and much as I think he’s really cool, some of the songs sounded a hot mess. The dancing was between tracks with his band was so awesome though! When I arrived I discovered that Active Child was also playing on the night but I didn’t get there in time to catch it, so I’m off to see him tonight at the Garage.

FLASHMOB!

Here’s some pics from the London version of the Eurovision Flashmob. Call me a geek, but I was really looking forward to this. The memo said to come dressed in bright colours, and somehow I think I took that too seriously (I looked like an orange…)

It was held outside The Place– which was a bit weird as it was just a little street in Kings Cross  (although it did look very London)

Anyway, there was a massive mix of people, and it was all loads of fun. We started at 6pm, didn’t finish til around 10 at night. Looking forward to seeing the clip on the night of the Final!

New Music: Jamie Woon

I really don’t know much about this guy, other than he’s supporting Ellie Goulding at this summer’s iTunes festival in London. He’s got a smooth, haunting, soulful voice about him. His Myspace is a little empty, but his first single is on Youtube. Be sure to give ‘Spirits a listen too. Check out here.