As of right now, I think Drake's in the lead for song of the summer, and possibly album of the year as well. Chris Stapleton is close behind, and there were a few more releases this month, including from Needtobreathe and Justin Bieber, but One Dance does seem to be the track to beat.
1. All I Want - Kodaline - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cOCmC_m23E
I'm still in love with this song. The raw emotion behind the music and the vocals are exactly what I want from music. The musician is trying to convey a message, one that has to be close to the musician's heart, in order to be effectively portrayed. When an artist cares so much about their message and is able to connect that with music, the magic really happens.
2. Apologize - One Republic - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSM3w1v-A_Y
This song is another that is really one in a million. It can fit into any movie, any TV show, really any dramatic experience. It's a classic, a pop song that will forever be remembered. It has a perfect combination of all the classic instruments, and really introduced the classic new pop drum beat.
3. Brother - Needtobreathe feat. Gavin Degraw - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61Wm_qlVD4Q
One of the big releases of the month was Needtobreathe's new album Hard Love. It takes the band on a slightly different path, with a new sound that is starting to involve more electronics and synth. Still, the classical vocal sound remains, as does the root folky sound.
4. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
Over the past month, I haven't really picked up a guitar and played any music, which is really disappointing. When I do get the chance, this is going to be one of the first songs I tackle. I can't rate this song high enough.
5. Cold Water - Major Lazer feat. Justin Bieber and MO - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a59gmGkq_pw
Can Bieber do anything wrong musically? While this definitely isn't Bieber's greatest track, it's a smooth, tame listen, with Bieber's vocals fitting in perfectly. He has an instantly recognizable voice, and is really starting to have a recognizable sound with this electronic dance music.
6. Tennessee Whiskey - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c
I don't really know, but I've got the feeling lately that I want to see what else this artist can do? What more does Chris Stapleton have to offer, where else can he take his music? That's a good thing and a bad thing. It means that the man has potential to do even more, but it also means that I'm beginning to turn away from his stuff, unless he comes out with more material soon.
7. One Dance - Drake - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IIspaicSnY
I'm not really a huge fan of Drake music, but he does have a few good tracks that are just too catchy to ignore. This is definitely one of them. It's got a very catchy hook, a good beat, and some good tunes to back it up. It's good to see some Canadian talent be well respected in the industry.
8. Cleopatra - The Lumineers - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aN5s9N_pTUs
I connect The Lumineers to Rend Collective. They both have similar sounds, and similar song writing skills. The Lumineers are very much storytellers with their music. Each song has a different message, that pans out telling a tale.
9. Dancing on My Own - Calum Scott - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q31tGyBJhRY
I love listening to good singing auditions. It's the moment you get to hear a new voice, a new talent. This is definitely one of the best auditions I have ever heard. It's a perfect showcase of his voice, a perfect showcase of his musical knowledge, a perfect showcase of his ingenuity.
10. Bleeding Love - Leona Lewis - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_weSk0BonM
The old adage that it's not what you know but who you know seems to be really true in the music and acting industry. One example would be Leona Lewis. Even though she really got her start through X Factor, she was raised attending the BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology. Thrust right into it from a young age; that's one way to do it!
Monday, 25 July 2016
Wednesday, 29 June 2016
Top Ten Songs for June
Still not a great month for songs of the summer. There really hasn't been a whole lot of good new material. It seems all the top artists are on breaks, or currently touring, but not releasing new songs. This still presents a good opportunity to go back and take a look at any older music that may have been passed over.
1. All I Want - Kodaline - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cOCmC_m23E
I actually stumbled onto this song after watching a YouTube video of a Voice contestant Stevie McCrorie covering it for his blind audition. The song is right in my niche; acoustic, emotion driven, and so eerie. It really has that x factor that sets it apart especially in my books.
2. Tennessee Whiskey - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c
Amazingly, Chris Stapleton doesn't only churn out hits under his name, but he writes for some pretty big artists as well. He's written songs for Adele, Kenny Chesney, Thomas Rhett, Sheryl Crow, and George Strait. Those are some pretty big names singing your songs.
3. Alaska - Maggie Rogers - https://soundcloud.com/maggierogers/alaska
Another one I accidentally stumbled onto. Actually, I think someone shared a video of this on Facebook, of this young college girl meeting Pharrell through a school program, and playing this song for him. Throughout most of the video Pharrell was extremely nonchalant. With this song though, his interest was immediately perked. You can tell when a song is great, simply by the reaction of the people listening.
4. Lost Boy - Ruth B. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuHdkSj5nGc
Of course, the top contender for song of the summer was written by a Canadian artist, again. Ruth B. is 20, coming from Edmonton Alberta. This song has actually been around for over a year, but it was only made popular early this year, which makes it the frontrunner for this year's song of the summer.
5. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
One of the coolest things about this band is how they brand themselves. To them, it's all about "a community of worshippers." Their mission statement is all about pursuing the heart of God, finding Him in every aspect of life, and expressing that through the freedom of worship.
6. This Must Be a Dream - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55wfl5lpoAM
I've mentioned it before, but the 1975's lead singer Matt Healy is an extremely intellectual guy. He seems to have some strong radical political ideas. And he's never afraid to speak his mind. I think that's why so many young people love his work, and follow him ardently.
7. She's American - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFYiOtjB608
Another new song from the 1975's new album. This one, at least to me, sounds extremely similar to some of the other ones from their previous album. I'm actually surprised at this, I tend to think of the 1975 as an extremely unique band. But this song isn't actually that unique to them. The lyrics are though!
8. Lego House - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4BLVznuWnU
While Sheeran is taking a break, it provides some time to really appreciate his older work. The lyrics are incredibly insightful and creative, marking him a true singer-songwriter. Sometimes it makes you wonder where these artists come up with these ideas!
9. From the Day - I Am They - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUjuRFwwvaw
The style of music from this band is extremely similar to Rend Collective, which is probably why I like them so much. It's extremely folk, and very catchy, which is kind of the direction that worship music seems to be veering towards these days.
10. Til the Day I Die - Toby Mac feat. NF - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWLZ_MrPplk
I've never really been a huge fan of Toby Mac, even though he's considered one of the best Christian artists of all times, just because of how he revolutionized the industry. To be honest, this is really the only song of his that I can listen to over and over.
1. All I Want - Kodaline - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cOCmC_m23E
I actually stumbled onto this song after watching a YouTube video of a Voice contestant Stevie McCrorie covering it for his blind audition. The song is right in my niche; acoustic, emotion driven, and so eerie. It really has that x factor that sets it apart especially in my books.
2. Tennessee Whiskey - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c
Amazingly, Chris Stapleton doesn't only churn out hits under his name, but he writes for some pretty big artists as well. He's written songs for Adele, Kenny Chesney, Thomas Rhett, Sheryl Crow, and George Strait. Those are some pretty big names singing your songs.
3. Alaska - Maggie Rogers - https://soundcloud.com/maggierogers/alaska
Another one I accidentally stumbled onto. Actually, I think someone shared a video of this on Facebook, of this young college girl meeting Pharrell through a school program, and playing this song for him. Throughout most of the video Pharrell was extremely nonchalant. With this song though, his interest was immediately perked. You can tell when a song is great, simply by the reaction of the people listening.
4. Lost Boy - Ruth B. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuHdkSj5nGc
Of course, the top contender for song of the summer was written by a Canadian artist, again. Ruth B. is 20, coming from Edmonton Alberta. This song has actually been around for over a year, but it was only made popular early this year, which makes it the frontrunner for this year's song of the summer.
5. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
One of the coolest things about this band is how they brand themselves. To them, it's all about "a community of worshippers." Their mission statement is all about pursuing the heart of God, finding Him in every aspect of life, and expressing that through the freedom of worship.
6. This Must Be a Dream - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55wfl5lpoAM
I've mentioned it before, but the 1975's lead singer Matt Healy is an extremely intellectual guy. He seems to have some strong radical political ideas. And he's never afraid to speak his mind. I think that's why so many young people love his work, and follow him ardently.
7. She's American - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFYiOtjB608
Another new song from the 1975's new album. This one, at least to me, sounds extremely similar to some of the other ones from their previous album. I'm actually surprised at this, I tend to think of the 1975 as an extremely unique band. But this song isn't actually that unique to them. The lyrics are though!
8. Lego House - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4BLVznuWnU
While Sheeran is taking a break, it provides some time to really appreciate his older work. The lyrics are incredibly insightful and creative, marking him a true singer-songwriter. Sometimes it makes you wonder where these artists come up with these ideas!
9. From the Day - I Am They - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUjuRFwwvaw
The style of music from this band is extremely similar to Rend Collective, which is probably why I like them so much. It's extremely folk, and very catchy, which is kind of the direction that worship music seems to be veering towards these days.
10. Til the Day I Die - Toby Mac feat. NF - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWLZ_MrPplk
I've never really been a huge fan of Toby Mac, even though he's considered one of the best Christian artists of all times, just because of how he revolutionized the industry. To be honest, this is really the only song of his that I can listen to over and over.
Wednesday, 1 June 2016
Top Ten Songs for May
Surprisingly, there weren't too many new songs breaking onto my top ten list for May. Usually the month serves as the launching pad for summer songs, but there weren't many new summer songs released. Because of that, some new favourites returned to my list, as well as many from last month.
1. Tennessee Whiskey - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c
I love the guitar work in this song, especially the slide guitar. Probably one of my favourite parts of country music is slide guitar. It's such an uniquely sounding instrument, really adding a whole new dimension to the genre of music.
2. Lost Boy - Ruth B. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuHdkSj5nGc
This is probably the only newer song that broke onto my list for the month. Apparently the song started off in a six second vine. From there, the artist got signed, released an EP, and has this song dominating radio play. Actually, it's quite surprising, usually slower songs like this don't get as much radio play.
3. This Must Be a Dream - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55wfl5lpoAM
The 1975 recently released their new music video for A Change of Heart, which once again showcased their intellectual and creative genius. This video particularly focused on their creative skills, which can be clearly demonstrated throughout their music as well.
4. Shine (Kygo Remix) - Benjamin Francis Leftwich - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u0JNlScNWs
I actually picked up on this song from a tweet that the lead singer of The 1975 sent out. It's another British singer songwriter, and this guy's probably the most unique of all of them. His vocals are so eerie, and actually, this remix dumbs down that feeling just a bit to create a more smooth song. But the original is great as well, as are a lot of Leftwich's other songs.
5. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
This song has caught on around Christian circles so much that other artists have begun releasing covers of the song. One such band who very recently released one such cover would be I Am They, whose hit song is From the Day. They released a cover that is extremely similar to the original, yet has some very different harmonies in it, vocally.
6. Lego House - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4BLVznuWnU
An older Sheeran song, but one of his best. This might actually be the song that launched his international stardom. Classic hip hop acoustic style, with unique lyrics, it's a perfect Ed Sheeran tune.
7. Fast Car - Tracy Chapman - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTIB10eQnA0
This is one of those old classics that will always be one of my favourites of all time. I love when a song relies heavily on an unique acoustic lick like this one. You could sit there and play it all day, while adding certain variations, and just having fun with the basis of the song. Those small licks are what makes a song a classic, and so special.
8. Touch and Go - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2cR3zy38DU
One of the newer songs on my list, and it really isn't that new. It's from Sheeran's live album from the concert he played at Wembley which was a huge feat for him, selling out three straight nights at the venue. This song is actually probably one of my favourite upbeat songs from Sheeran, with him still relying heavily on his acoustic.
9. Fire Away - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18AhUXAILWE
Sometimes musician's schedules are absolutely insane. One minute they're non stop recording in the studio, the next playing a different venue in a different city every night, and the next traveling all over for promos. For example, Stapleton over the next few months is absolutely crazy.
10. Heartbeat - Matt Kearney - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acScCRFIFNc
One of the coolest things that you can see in a musician's career is the development of their skill. Matt Kearney's development is insane. He's stuck true to his original sound, but has gotten better and better with each year. This new album is so much better!
1. Tennessee Whiskey - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c
I love the guitar work in this song, especially the slide guitar. Probably one of my favourite parts of country music is slide guitar. It's such an uniquely sounding instrument, really adding a whole new dimension to the genre of music.
2. Lost Boy - Ruth B. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuHdkSj5nGc
This is probably the only newer song that broke onto my list for the month. Apparently the song started off in a six second vine. From there, the artist got signed, released an EP, and has this song dominating radio play. Actually, it's quite surprising, usually slower songs like this don't get as much radio play.
3. This Must Be a Dream - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55wfl5lpoAM
The 1975 recently released their new music video for A Change of Heart, which once again showcased their intellectual and creative genius. This video particularly focused on their creative skills, which can be clearly demonstrated throughout their music as well.
4. Shine (Kygo Remix) - Benjamin Francis Leftwich - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2u0JNlScNWs
I actually picked up on this song from a tweet that the lead singer of The 1975 sent out. It's another British singer songwriter, and this guy's probably the most unique of all of them. His vocals are so eerie, and actually, this remix dumbs down that feeling just a bit to create a more smooth song. But the original is great as well, as are a lot of Leftwich's other songs.
5. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
This song has caught on around Christian circles so much that other artists have begun releasing covers of the song. One such band who very recently released one such cover would be I Am They, whose hit song is From the Day. They released a cover that is extremely similar to the original, yet has some very different harmonies in it, vocally.
6. Lego House - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4BLVznuWnU
An older Sheeran song, but one of his best. This might actually be the song that launched his international stardom. Classic hip hop acoustic style, with unique lyrics, it's a perfect Ed Sheeran tune.
7. Fast Car - Tracy Chapman - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTIB10eQnA0
This is one of those old classics that will always be one of my favourites of all time. I love when a song relies heavily on an unique acoustic lick like this one. You could sit there and play it all day, while adding certain variations, and just having fun with the basis of the song. Those small licks are what makes a song a classic, and so special.
8. Touch and Go - Ed Sheeran - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2cR3zy38DU
One of the newer songs on my list, and it really isn't that new. It's from Sheeran's live album from the concert he played at Wembley which was a huge feat for him, selling out three straight nights at the venue. This song is actually probably one of my favourite upbeat songs from Sheeran, with him still relying heavily on his acoustic.
9. Fire Away - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18AhUXAILWE
Sometimes musician's schedules are absolutely insane. One minute they're non stop recording in the studio, the next playing a different venue in a different city every night, and the next traveling all over for promos. For example, Stapleton over the next few months is absolutely crazy.
10. Heartbeat - Matt Kearney - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acScCRFIFNc
One of the coolest things that you can see in a musician's career is the development of their skill. Matt Kearney's development is insane. He's stuck true to his original sound, but has gotten better and better with each year. This new album is so much better!
Monday, 9 May 2016
How To: Troubleshoot an Effect Pedal
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| Dawsons |
There are some different possibilities in regards to the problem when it comes to malfunctioning effect pedals. It could actually be something with your guitar, or the actual pedal, or the amp, or the cables, or the power supply, or the order of the pedals. Isolation is key to figuring out what exactly is the issue. Take each possibility in a step by step order. Plug just the guitar into the amp, use different cables, try using a different power supply, plug just the one pedal in. It takes time, but it truly is effective.
From there, the best option is to get a professional to take a look at your equipment, or simply swap out some of the cheaper equipment such as cables and such. You can try playing around with the wiring of the pedal or guitar (the input jack tends to be the issue with both), but you can create more problems for yourself when you try that. The best bet is to get it professionally fixed. But troubleshooting allows for you to not waste money, and correctly identify where you need to invest in order to create the best sound that you can.
Tuesday, 26 April 2016
Top Ten Songs for April
April was a month of new country music for me, mainly because my car radio was constantly set on the country station. I also renewed my interest in Keith Urban, especially since his new album is dropping soon. The artist of the year so far has to be Chris Stapleton too, coming from the country industry. His vocal prowess is absolutely amazing.
1. Chicken Fried - Zac Brown Band - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4ujS1er1r0
This is one of those country songs that I picked up on from the radio. For me, I think the radio is kind of like the newspaper; it will never go completely obsolete. I may be wrong, but I think in one way or another the radio will always be around. It's one of the greatest ways to discover new songs.
2. Tennessee Whiskey - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c
With all of the new music this year, it just happens to be an artist with an album from 2015 that is making headway as the most exciting and talked about musician of the year. Chris Stapleton's vocals are the top coming from the country industry in recent years, and his style is so smooth and unique. Watching him live, everything he does is just so effortless.
3. This Must Be a Dream - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55wfl5lpoAM
I'm running out of good things to say about The 1975. Everything that they do is absolutely stunning. The only complaint I do have about them would be their actual lifestyle, which sometimes comes through in the profanities in their lyrics. They seem to be hooked on drugs, alcohol, and sex. Remove all that, and they still would be amazing. I don't think that lifestyle is their key selling point at all.
4. Fire Away - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18AhUXAILWE
One reason all Stapleton's songs sound so amazing would be the harmonies that are included. The majority of these harmonies are sung by Chris' wife, Morgane, who also has her own individual career. Actually, the two met while working at the same publishing house, and now work together, while having two kids as well!
5. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
I really want to experience this song live. I think it's one of those special ones, that's going to have a different reaction each time, simply because of the different emotional impact it's going to have on different people. My favourite worship songs are ones that spark something, that motivate people, that inspire the church, that reignite passion. This song can definitely do that.
6. Youth - Daughter - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QT5eGHCJdE
Some awesome news regarding this developing band. They just announced a visit to Toronto soon, June 12th. This is great, especially after the release of their new album Not to Disappear. Top new song off of that album would be Numbers. The new album tends to be very similar to their sound which is great, with maybe the addition of a little more electronic synth instruments. Still, a very unique style.
7. Change of Heart - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63uwYBmOvKM
Lead singer of the band, Matty Healy is actually incredibly intellectual. He continually talks about the theory of music and its unique styles. One of his big talking points has always been the use of cell phones in the crowd to film the concert. He's actually stopped a live performance before to get people to put down their cell phones. He says that in order to actually experience the performance, you can't have a screen in front of you. The electronic version doesn't help you relive it at all; it doesn't come close to the actual thing.
8. Heartbeat - Matt Kearney - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acScCRFIFNc
Matt Kearney loves to use odd beats to drive his songs. Almost every one of his songs utilize a backing click track that is funky, catchy, and extremely pop driven. His music might be the closest I have ever seen to being considered true pop. Some might argue there are some hip hop influences, but I think he has really mastered a strong pop sound.
9. Come Thou Font - Adam Young - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfQO99HVogE
Adam Young or as he is better known as, Owl City, is a really unique artist. He has tons of hidden material floating around on the internet that has never actually been released. He uses Soundcloud and BandCamp to just experiment, and sometimes he produces gems like this unique version of Come Thou Font, my favourite hymn ever.
10. Fallingforyou - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3JJxS0gNkE
This song is just so eerie. It's got a great groove, and the same kind of synth electronic vibe that classified the band first album. An absolute stunner, the lyrics are also extremely well written. Apparently, this is one of their favourite songs to play live!
1. Chicken Fried - Zac Brown Band - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4ujS1er1r0
This is one of those country songs that I picked up on from the radio. For me, I think the radio is kind of like the newspaper; it will never go completely obsolete. I may be wrong, but I think in one way or another the radio will always be around. It's one of the greatest ways to discover new songs.
2. Tennessee Whiskey - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c
With all of the new music this year, it just happens to be an artist with an album from 2015 that is making headway as the most exciting and talked about musician of the year. Chris Stapleton's vocals are the top coming from the country industry in recent years, and his style is so smooth and unique. Watching him live, everything he does is just so effortless.
3. This Must Be a Dream - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55wfl5lpoAM
I'm running out of good things to say about The 1975. Everything that they do is absolutely stunning. The only complaint I do have about them would be their actual lifestyle, which sometimes comes through in the profanities in their lyrics. They seem to be hooked on drugs, alcohol, and sex. Remove all that, and they still would be amazing. I don't think that lifestyle is their key selling point at all.
4. Fire Away - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18AhUXAILWE
One reason all Stapleton's songs sound so amazing would be the harmonies that are included. The majority of these harmonies are sung by Chris' wife, Morgane, who also has her own individual career. Actually, the two met while working at the same publishing house, and now work together, while having two kids as well!
5. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
I really want to experience this song live. I think it's one of those special ones, that's going to have a different reaction each time, simply because of the different emotional impact it's going to have on different people. My favourite worship songs are ones that spark something, that motivate people, that inspire the church, that reignite passion. This song can definitely do that.
6. Youth - Daughter - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QT5eGHCJdE
Some awesome news regarding this developing band. They just announced a visit to Toronto soon, June 12th. This is great, especially after the release of their new album Not to Disappear. Top new song off of that album would be Numbers. The new album tends to be very similar to their sound which is great, with maybe the addition of a little more electronic synth instruments. Still, a very unique style.
7. Change of Heart - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63uwYBmOvKM
Lead singer of the band, Matty Healy is actually incredibly intellectual. He continually talks about the theory of music and its unique styles. One of his big talking points has always been the use of cell phones in the crowd to film the concert. He's actually stopped a live performance before to get people to put down their cell phones. He says that in order to actually experience the performance, you can't have a screen in front of you. The electronic version doesn't help you relive it at all; it doesn't come close to the actual thing.
8. Heartbeat - Matt Kearney - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acScCRFIFNc
Matt Kearney loves to use odd beats to drive his songs. Almost every one of his songs utilize a backing click track that is funky, catchy, and extremely pop driven. His music might be the closest I have ever seen to being considered true pop. Some might argue there are some hip hop influences, but I think he has really mastered a strong pop sound.
9. Come Thou Font - Adam Young - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfQO99HVogE
Adam Young or as he is better known as, Owl City, is a really unique artist. He has tons of hidden material floating around on the internet that has never actually been released. He uses Soundcloud and BandCamp to just experiment, and sometimes he produces gems like this unique version of Come Thou Font, my favourite hymn ever.
10. Fallingforyou - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3JJxS0gNkE
This song is just so eerie. It's got a great groove, and the same kind of synth electronic vibe that classified the band first album. An absolute stunner, the lyrics are also extremely well written. Apparently, this is one of their favourite songs to play live!
Saturday, 26 March 2016
Top Ten Songs for March
Another good month of music discovery. I was mostly excited about The 1975's new album, which has solidified them as my favourite band. But some older songs have also risen back onto my charts, including an older 1975 song. And the new music will only continue to pour in, with the Lumineers raging back, Blake Shelton, Eric Clapton, and more releasing new albums in the coming months.
1. Youth - Daughter - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QT5eGHCJdE
Another British artist rising to the top of my charts! Not only are they taking over my musical rankings, but they are also dominating the world wide charts. Ed Sheeran, Jamie Lawson, The 1975 recently, and now Daughter. Britain is definitely doing something right!
2. This Must Be a Dream - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55wfl5lpoAM
The sound of this new album is completely different, yet strangely similar for the 1975. The sound is definitely more pop, with more synth and electronic sounds moving away from the regular instruments, but they are still present, and driving each song forward. It's more of a development of their sound, or what they wanted originally with their first album.
3. A Change of Heart - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lvgpsy6dJgs
With the debut of a new album means a new tour. The 1975 are so big now, that they get a worldwide tour. They'll be visiting Toronto May 20 at Echo Beach. A smaller venue then others in Toronto, but it should still be an amazing concert. The show is almost sold out, with the remaining tickets being slightly higher priced.
4. Fierce - Jesus Culture - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=II1JKBuz-AY
I know that I've said this before, I think for the song One Thing Remains, but Chris Quilala has an amazing voice. This song, while highlighting many other strengths of the band, puts a spotlight on the vocal talent of their lead male singer. While it doesn't sound like much, the transition from the verse to the chorus vocally is extremely difficult in this song. Jesus Culture is a master of dynamics, and a big reason for that is Quilala's voice.
5. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
Kind of like Jesus Culture, Bethel Music is actually a group of musicians separated into many different bands. They each serve in different cities under a church that is part of this Bethel Network. The singers that lead this song are husband and wife Jonathan David Hesler, and Melissa Hesler, who are extremely talented.
6. Love Yourself - Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyEuk8j8imI
It's kind of cool how the past two years, the top songs have been ballads (or a form of one) with Thinking Out Loud and this one. Obviously, Ed Sheeran has had an impact on both of these songs, again showcasing his amazing talent, but Bieber has a big part to play in this song as well. His musical team also deserves a ton of credit, especially Dan Kanter the musical director.
7. Simplicity - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8p3n5wzFpM
I love the message behind this song. A lot of times we approach life with such complexity. We try to make a lot out of really what can be so simple. The same can be said with worship. We try to add theatrics, lights, musical additives, and more to create something that can be done with none of all that. Worship is simply connecting with God. Why try to make it more than that?
8. Fire Away - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18AhUXAILWE
The music video for this song was just released in February. The idea behind it is fantastic, and the execution is incredible. In a very eerie way, the video aims to bring attention to mental health awareness, in partnership with The Campaign to Change Direction. A great artist with a great song, siding with a foundation for an amazing cause. That's someone who is using their gift for the right reasons.
9. Medicine - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lur5B3a4_fk
This is a lesser known track from the 1975, as it was released as a single, in between their two albums. It still is an amazing song, a perfect embodiment of The 1975's sound. It's kind of weird though. Multiple British bands released songs titled Medicine around the same time, with Daughter being one of them.
10. Collide - Howie Day - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ca9ub9rpNK4
A classic. It seems though, as if the covers of this song are more popular than the actual original. An acoustic version of this song particularly has the potential to be great, with the track extremely open for an artist's unique touch.
1. Youth - Daughter - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QT5eGHCJdE
Another British artist rising to the top of my charts! Not only are they taking over my musical rankings, but they are also dominating the world wide charts. Ed Sheeran, Jamie Lawson, The 1975 recently, and now Daughter. Britain is definitely doing something right!
2. This Must Be a Dream - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55wfl5lpoAM
The sound of this new album is completely different, yet strangely similar for the 1975. The sound is definitely more pop, with more synth and electronic sounds moving away from the regular instruments, but they are still present, and driving each song forward. It's more of a development of their sound, or what they wanted originally with their first album.
3. A Change of Heart - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lvgpsy6dJgs
With the debut of a new album means a new tour. The 1975 are so big now, that they get a worldwide tour. They'll be visiting Toronto May 20 at Echo Beach. A smaller venue then others in Toronto, but it should still be an amazing concert. The show is almost sold out, with the remaining tickets being slightly higher priced.
4. Fierce - Jesus Culture - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=II1JKBuz-AY
I know that I've said this before, I think for the song One Thing Remains, but Chris Quilala has an amazing voice. This song, while highlighting many other strengths of the band, puts a spotlight on the vocal talent of their lead male singer. While it doesn't sound like much, the transition from the verse to the chorus vocally is extremely difficult in this song. Jesus Culture is a master of dynamics, and a big reason for that is Quilala's voice.
5. No Longer Slaves - Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k
Kind of like Jesus Culture, Bethel Music is actually a group of musicians separated into many different bands. They each serve in different cities under a church that is part of this Bethel Network. The singers that lead this song are husband and wife Jonathan David Hesler, and Melissa Hesler, who are extremely talented.
6. Love Yourself - Justin Bieber - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyEuk8j8imI
It's kind of cool how the past two years, the top songs have been ballads (or a form of one) with Thinking Out Loud and this one. Obviously, Ed Sheeran has had an impact on both of these songs, again showcasing his amazing talent, but Bieber has a big part to play in this song as well. His musical team also deserves a ton of credit, especially Dan Kanter the musical director.
7. Simplicity - Rend Collective - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8p3n5wzFpM
I love the message behind this song. A lot of times we approach life with such complexity. We try to make a lot out of really what can be so simple. The same can be said with worship. We try to add theatrics, lights, musical additives, and more to create something that can be done with none of all that. Worship is simply connecting with God. Why try to make it more than that?
8. Fire Away - Chris Stapleton - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18AhUXAILWE
The music video for this song was just released in February. The idea behind it is fantastic, and the execution is incredible. In a very eerie way, the video aims to bring attention to mental health awareness, in partnership with The Campaign to Change Direction. A great artist with a great song, siding with a foundation for an amazing cause. That's someone who is using their gift for the right reasons.
9. Medicine - The 1975 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lur5B3a4_fk
This is a lesser known track from the 1975, as it was released as a single, in between their two albums. It still is an amazing song, a perfect embodiment of The 1975's sound. It's kind of weird though. Multiple British bands released songs titled Medicine around the same time, with Daughter being one of them.
10. Collide - Howie Day - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ca9ub9rpNK4
A classic. It seems though, as if the covers of this song are more popular than the actual original. An acoustic version of this song particularly has the potential to be great, with the track extremely open for an artist's unique touch.
Saturday, 19 March 2016
Justin Bieber's Purpose Album Review
Rating: 8.5/10
Website: http://www.justinbiebermusic.com/
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/purpose-deluxe/id1049605561
An extremely celebrated return for one of the most promising artists of this decade. Justin Bieber has gone through a lot already, going from international stardom to a worldwide disgrace. But he returns with maturity, development, and purpose with his new album, vaulting him back into the forefront of the musical industry. The new album aptly titled Purpose landmarks another important turning point in his career, and offers an unique insight into the life of a pop star. The album itself is classical Bieber tunes, filled with strong vocal performances, catchy songs, and revolutionizing music.
The album is highlighted by top top international hits such as Sorry, What Do You Mean, and Love Yourself. Relying on catchy unique pop tracks, Bieber uses his new electronic sound and his classic vocal prowess to create hit after hit. Past his top three tracks, Bieber backs his album in strength with Company, I'll Show You and Mark My Words. The rest of the tracks are also unique in their nature, including some cool new artist collaborations.
This album is an excellent addition to Bieber's resume, a perfect step in his career. Hopefully, this marks the return of his sanity, an improvement in his maturity, and a new chapter with his music.
Website: http://www.justinbiebermusic.com/
Purchase: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/purpose-deluxe/id1049605561
An extremely celebrated return for one of the most promising artists of this decade. Justin Bieber has gone through a lot already, going from international stardom to a worldwide disgrace. But he returns with maturity, development, and purpose with his new album, vaulting him back into the forefront of the musical industry. The new album aptly titled Purpose landmarks another important turning point in his career, and offers an unique insight into the life of a pop star. The album itself is classical Bieber tunes, filled with strong vocal performances, catchy songs, and revolutionizing music.
The album is highlighted by top top international hits such as Sorry, What Do You Mean, and Love Yourself. Relying on catchy unique pop tracks, Bieber uses his new electronic sound and his classic vocal prowess to create hit after hit. Past his top three tracks, Bieber backs his album in strength with Company, I'll Show You and Mark My Words. The rest of the tracks are also unique in their nature, including some cool new artist collaborations.
This album is an excellent addition to Bieber's resume, a perfect step in his career. Hopefully, this marks the return of his sanity, an improvement in his maturity, and a new chapter with his music.
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