Friday I'm In Love - 16/8/13

Friday I'm In Love is a weekly feature.

Highlights of what I loved over the past week.

Week = Friday to Friday.

May include things of a non-musical variety.

Pet Shop Boys - Electric

When this album came out last month, it sat on my "to listen" list for quite a while until I eventually forgot about it.  I must admit that this is partially due to their last album, Elysium.  It wasn't a bad release, but something about it failed to thrill me.  Still, whenever I say "you're a winner", it must be in that Neil Tennant "winnah" voice.  So that's something.

Earlier this week, a promo copy of Electric arrived in the mail and you can imagine my surprise after giving it a spin.  This record is amazing in more than one way.  First, the energy that Elysium seemed to lack is in full power this time around.  Secondly, those Pet Shop Boys have been experimenting. The album's production, thanks to the wonderful Stuart Price, gives the heaviest and most trendy electronic artists a run for their money.  You have tracks like "Love Is A Bourgeois Construct", which is practically a tribute to the classic PSB sound, and then "Thursday" with Example or "Shouting In The Evening", a massive electro club hit if I ever did hear one.

The Pet Shop Boys have still got it and Electric will surely stand the test of time against their legendary catalog.  Definitely check it out if you need some fantastic electronic music.  I know it'll be on my rotation for a long time to come.  You can buy a copy of the record here and listen to a few songs below.

Betty Who - The Movement

Over the past few weeks, one album in particular has been glued to my brain. This album, or EP to be more specific, contains some of the most exciting pop music I've heard in quite some time.  I know I'm always ranting about the big names like Robyn or Gaga, but this record is something to be recognized.

Betty Who's The Movement actually came out earlier this year, but I've recently found it.  It consists of four spectacular and infectious pop singles.  I say "singles" instead of "songs", because every track on the debut could be a hit on some level.  The opening single, "Somebody Loves You", is an eighties tinged dance piece and probably packs the most power upon first listen.  Actually, the entire album sounds eighties inspired to a certain extent, whether immediately obvious or not.  "You're In Love" falls into the mid-tempo range and reminds me of something Katy Perry would pounce on if given the chance.

My current favorite song on The Movement is "Right Here".  It's more reserved, approaching with a method of simplicity by placing the focus on a powerful vocal.  The instrumental is also mellowed out when compared to the rest of the album, but it's true that less can really be more.  The album's closer is "High Society".  I find myself singing this one throughout the day without notice.  A line like "We'll drink Chardonnay through the day cause we say so..." has never been more contagious.

Another great detail about The Movement is the fact that it's completely free. That's right.  Betty Who has all four songs posted on her website free of charge to download as you please.  You can also use the Soundcloud player below to grab the songs.  Check out the music video for "Somebody Loves You" while you're at it.  If you're really enjoying the music, then head this way to buy a Betty Who shirt perfect for wearing while dancing.

Friday I'm In Love - 9/8/13

Friday I'm In Love is a weekly feature.

Includes highlights of what I loved over the past week.

Week = Friday to Friday.

May include things of a non-musical variety.

Astralwerks "Music In 20/20" Box Set

To celebrate their 20th anniversary as a record label, Astralwerks released a limited edition box set for Record Store Day back in April.  After searching numerous record stores, I unfortunately couldn't manage to find a single one of the 1,250 sets for myself.  But the musical Gods believe in second chances.  Twenty years after the exact date of Astralwerks formation, the label collaborated with Insound to offer the remaining few copies to the public. I jumped on that opportunity like you wouldn't believe.  My copy just arrived in the mail a few days ago (#465!!!) and it's an amazing anthology of Astralwerks massive catalog.

There are twenty flexi discs printed on a rainbow of colors.  Each one is a song by a different artist and includes the original artwork.  Some are hit singles, while others are unreleased rarities.  The artists range from veterans such as The Chemical Brothers to the recent big names like Diamond Rings and David Guetta.

Hopefully some of you were able to snatch a copy, either on RSD or through Insound.  As far as box sets go, Music In 20/20 is visually and sonically fantastic.  Check out some more pics of the box set below.

Artist Spotlight: Johnny Lazer

I'm always searching for exciting new music from upcoming artists.  When I stumbled upon a single from Johnny Lazer, I was instantly surprised that I had never heard of this pop act before.  Johnny Lazer is made up of Antony Cherrie and Laura Fares.  Antony is the face of the duo, taking the name of Johnny Lazer with his wild stage presence and signature mohawk, while Laura supplies the beats.  Together, they make insanely catchy electro-pop music.  The first thing I noticed about Johnny Lazer was how tight the production of the music is.  These songs sound like they should be at the top of pop music charts everywhere.

Their track "Bad Boyfriend", which is released on March 28, is all sorts of fun.  During the verses Johnny half-raps over a speeding synth-covered beat.  The song is packed with energy and gives listeners a nice taste of Johnny Lazer's style.  It's nice to hear a male vocalist in a style of music that is dominated by mainstream female singers.

"New High" takes a different approach to the genre with a soaring and melodic dance piece.  Listeners who may not be fond of the playful, yet dangerous, mood of "Bad Boyfriend" will probably prefer this single.  There's no denying that Johnny Lazer has an amazing voice for pop music and you can hear it in this song.  The layered vocals add some depth to the chorus.  It sounds like a bittersweet pop party.

While the official release of "Bad Boyfriend" isn't until next month, you can listen to it along with "New High" below...

  Bad Boyfriend by JohnnyLazer

  New High by JohnnyLazer

Robyn - Body Talk

Earlier this year, Robyn began a musical trilogy.  Titled "Body Talk", the series of albums was released over a span of about six months.  Each album contained approximately eight songs that dabbled in pop, dance, and electronic music.  Her newest release, and the end of the series, is named Body Talk.  Instead of releasing another album with under ten songs, the Swedish musician decided to put out a compilation record.  This album collects five songs from Body Talk Pt. 1, five songs from Body Talk Pt. 2, and five new songs that are technically Body Talk Pt. 3.

Body Talk begins with "Dancing On My Own", the first single from Pt. 1.  Being her most promoted song, it's a great choice for the album opener.  The record continues through two more Pt. 1 songs until you reach, "Indestructible".  A string covered acoustic version of this song had been released prior to this album, but the new fleshed out dance version brings a new light to the single.  "Time Machine", another new song, is the strongest of the five new tracks.  The song is already begging to get radio play.  "Time Machine" is definitely a hit.

The record does a good job of mixing new songs between the older tracks.  You never get too much of one album in a row.  If you already own Pt. 1 and Pt. 2 and have become familiar with the song order, then the track listing may take some time to settle in.

With compilations, song choice is always the most important factor for success.  Body Talk, for the most part, is outstanding.  The inclusion of the more experimental and instrumental tracks ("Don't ****ing Tell Me What To Do" and "We Dance To The Beat") seems risky, but it works.  The only real mistake is leaving out the standout track, "Criminal Intent", from Pt. 2.  "Cry When You Get Older" was another great track that's missing from the album.

At fifteen tracks long, Body Talk is pop music heaven.  There are enough hooks on this album to make even the biggest pop stars jealous.  Robyn's risky plan of releasing three albums within one year surprisingly and successfully worked.  She's now embarking on an international "Body Talk Tour" to celebrate.

If you already own Pt. 1 and Pt. 2, like many dedicated fans will, you can buy the EP version of this album titled Body Talk Pt. 3.  It contains only the five new songs and is available digitally everywhere and physically in select regions.  Here's the extended compilation version's track listing.

• 1. Dancing On My Own (Radio Version)
• 2. Fembot
• 3. Don't ****ing Tell Me What To Do
• 4. Indestructible
• 5. Time Machine
• 6. Love Kills
• 7. Hang With Me
• 8. Call Your Girlfriend
• 9. None of Dem (Feat. Röyksopp)
• 10. We Dance To The Beat
• 11. U Should Know Better (Feat. Snoop Dogg)
• 12. Dancehall Queen
• 13. Get Myself Together
• 14. In My Eyes
• 15. Stars 4-Ever

Body Talk is a satisfying end to the album trilogy.  I would definitely check it out if you love catchy pop, dance, and electronic music.  The five new tracks are just as strong as the past albums.  Maybe next time around Robyn will try to break the record again with five albums in a year.  One can only hope...

Lady Gaga - The Remix

Lady Gaga has already confirmed that an album of new tracks won't be seen until next year, but why should that stop her from releasing anything at all?  The Remix is exactly what it says it is.  It's an album full of Gaga's biggest hits, and some lesser known tracks, all remixed.  The new versions vary from full on heavy bass dance floor numbers to, on the other end of the spectrum, softer and more interesting mixes of the songs.  Some big names were recruited for the album.  Stuart Price, Passion Pit, and Frankmusik mixed three of tracks and one even features Marilyn Manson.  With ten songs total, the album has a broad style.  Some of the tracks could easily be replaced, but others are incredibly creative.

Unfortunately, the album starts off with probably the least interesting remix of the entire set.  The Richard Vission Remix of "Just Dance" is over six minutes long, and doesn't keep the listeners attention unless they're in a club with strobe lights.  It lacks in vocal tracks and seems very bland.  Once you get past the first track, the album picks up to a better pace.

The Stuart Price Remix of "Paparazzi" is the standout song of the album.  Both the music and the vocal track are amazing, and almost as entertaining as the original recording.  The vocal track uses different harmonies than the original recording.  It almost sounds like Gaga re-recorded the vocals.  It's great.

Other highlights include the Starsmith Remix of "Bad Romance", The Sound Of Arrows Remix of "Alejandro", and Monarchy 'Stylites' Remix of "Dance In The Dark".  Overall, it's a solid album.  There are two tracks in particular that are lacking; the Richard Vission Remix of "Just Dance" and the Passion Pit Remix of "Telephone".

I had high hopes of an outstanding remix when I heard Passion Pit was enlisted for the album.  Unfortunately, I'm not fond of the raised pitch on the vocals.  While it's reminiscent of "Sleepyhead" by the group, the raised vocals get very "chipmunk" after a couple minutes.  Luckily, the high vocals don't cover the entire song and it improves by the end.

The Remix isn't for everyone.  If you're just a casual fan or dislike remixes, then you probably won't go crazy over this album.  On the other hand, if you love dance music or you're a hardcore fan, then you'll probably love this record.  On average, the mixes stick to the original recordings just enough to not be annoying.  With the exclusion of the opening track, each song is instantly recognizable.  It's just a shame that some of the international remixes failed to make the US release of the record.  The Manhattan Clique Remix of "Boys Boys Boys" would've been a great addition.

If you're desperately in need of new music from Gaga and can't wait until next year, then go ahead and buy The Remix.  It'll keep the "Little Monsters" dancing through the rest of the year.

Ke$ha - Your Love Is My Drug

Ke$ha is taking over the radio at an incredibly fast rate.  First it was "TiK ToK".  This song was completely everywhere.  Her references to "jack" and P. Diddy caused her to go straight to number one on the Billboard Hot 100.  After her first single, she released "Blah Blah Blah" with 3OH!3.  While the song hasn't yet beat "TiK ToK's" record, the song is still making it's impact.  The third and upcoming single from her album, Animal, is "Your Love Is My Drug".  The song follows the same formula as her previous hits and isn't really groundbreaking in any way.

"Your Love Is My Drug" is by far the catchiest of her singles.  The song is about her addiction to a boy, he is her "drug".  I'm not sure who Ke$ha's target audience is, but I don't feel that using the term "crackhead" to describe herself is a great example for teenage girls.  She tends to glorify drugs, sex, and alcohol in her music. Ke$ha's definitely not a great role model, but nobody said she was trying to be one.

The most interesting part of the song is the ending.  The music is stripped down significantly, and the pop singer starts blurbing out random words.  Giggling and the odd line, "I like your beard." are just some of the things that are heard.  She definitely has a strange attitude.

In the end, the song isn't doing anything that hasn't already been thought of.  Ke$ha's songs are all very computerized and rely heavily on a bass filled beat.  It's bratty club music.  If you enjoy this style, you can find all of her hits on her debut album, Animal.  "Your Love Is My Drug" will most likely go to number one on the charts, but that doesn't mean it deserves that title.

Neon Trees - Animal

Lately, I've had a bit of a pop obsession.  Just about a year ago, pop was kind of bland and boring.  I didn't buy any of the new pop albums.  I lost interest in the bubbly genre and looked towards alternative rock.  The last few months have been completely different.  The pop genre got a boost of energy from new acts, and I became interested.  I started picking up pop records and now I'm constantly looking for more.

Neon Trees is an American band who just released their debut full length album, Habits.  Their music has what I love about the pop genre.  Catchy melodies, upbeat music, and solid vocals.  It's all very polished.  While they aren't a full blown radio pop group of their own, they get awfully close to it.  They effectively appeal to that general audience.

The song's instrumental is very produced.  It's alternative music you can dance to.  Maybe something along the lines of The Ting Tings, in that matter.  "Animal" isn't a song that you need to study.  It's just there to be enjoyed.  Feel good music, if you please.

The song is currently available as the Single Of The Week on iTunes, for free.  You can download the song during this offer until the 23rd of March.  I would definitely check it out, what's to lose?

Lady Gaga - The Fame

About a year before she released The Fame Monster, Lady Gaga showed the world her debut album.  The Fame is packed with so many catchy pop hooks, you won't know what to do with them.  Every song, from the ballad (Brown Eyes) to the radio hits (Poker Face) has a clear melody that you won't soon forget.  The concept for this album is very different than her sophomore effort.  The Fame is about fame.  It may sound like a shallow idea, but some songs dig deeper into the life of someone with fame and fortune.

The opening song is Lady Gaga's debut single, "Just Dance".  The song really sets the feeling for most of the album.  It's about having fun, and partying.  The first four songs on The Fame are coincidentally the four #1 hits that the album had.  With this song order, you may think that the other ten songs are filler.  This thought is completely wrong.  Although the front half contains the singles, the album keeps the listeners attention throughout its entirety.

The main element that brought Lady Gaga to her stardom is her ability to be unique.  The production and vocals on the songs are extremely unique to todays mainstream pop.  From her unique pronunciation on songs like "Starstruck" and "Brown Eyes" to the faint yells and synth warping on "Paparazzi", it's there.  She definitely has her own style, and signature producer (RedOne).

As for inspirations from other artists, there are some clear candidates.  Gaga claims that she looks up to several glam rock musicians, such as Freddie Mercury and David Bowie.  This influence is certainly noticeable.  Several of the songs are very theatrical.  I can also hear some similarities to '80's pop music (Madonna... maybe even Cyndi Lauper).

Overall, the album is a solid piece of pop.  There are several songs, besides the singles, that could have been chart-toppers (The Fame, Boys Boys Boys), if not for the release of The Fame Monster.  I suggest you put this CD in your stereo, push play, and have fun.  That's really what The Fame is about.

"Pop Music Will Never Be Low Brow" - Lady Gaga

Ke$ha - TiK ToK

I featured this song in a previous post but never wrote a full review on it.  I figured with all of the hype surrounding it and with all of the records it's breaking, I should write a complete review.  I have a different opinion of the song now.  I've kind of seen it for what it is.  Ke$ha (born Kesha Rose Sebert) found out what people what right now in pop music.  Fun.  It's plain and simple, this song is fun.  If you focus on the lyrics and song structure, you'll soon find out that Tik Tok is simple and shallow.  But if you sing along to it and party carefree, you'll have fun.  This is Ke$ha's key to success.  It's the kind of song that teenage girls will blast in their car with the windows rolled down.  They'll get excited when it comes on the radio.  I mean, when you spell your name with a dollar sign, you can't be serious.  Sure, the song is pumped full of auto-tune, but that doesn't really matter in the end... at least not for Ke$ha.  Download this song or pick up the album if you need a catchy party song.  Skip it if you can't tolerate songs about beer, swagger, and Mick Jagger.

La Roux

Here's one of my latest finds. La Roux is an English electropop duo led by singer Elly Jackson. English pop music has always different greatly from American pop, but I'll take La Roux over Lady GaGa any day. Their music reminds me of the 80's. They sound similar to Depeche Mode, Eurythmics, and maybe even Prince. The music consists of incredibly catchy beats and synths, while Jackson sings even catchier melodies. I've listened to three of their songs, Tigerlily, Bulletproof, and a remix of In For The Kill. Tigerlily is my favorite of the three, with Bulletproof as a close second. While I've never heard the original version of In For The Kill, the remix (Heartbreak Remix) is a little to long for my liking. I could definitely see Bulletproof becoming a Top 40 hit. I'm actually surprised it isn't already. I guess mainstream radio in the US isn't quite as friendly to electronic and dance music as Europe is. If you like upbeat pop music with a dance/electronic twist, then check out La Roux.

Kate Earl - Melody

Sometimes pop music can get tiring. You either turn on the radio and hear a song that you wouldn't want your parents to hear you listening to, or it's some Disney product that only your little sister could enjoy. Some kind of in between is needed. Kate Earl is an upcoming pop singer. She released her sophomore album, which is appropriately named Kate Earl, last month. Melody is the first single from the album, and it just might fill the empty gap in pop music.

Her debut album, Fate Is The Hunter, had a less produced sound than this song. It had the sound of adult contemporary radio. This song adds a beat, which will open it up to a younger audience. While it may be considered pop, it's sophisticated enough to keep those who dislike the bubbly mainstream sound from running away. When I first heard the song, I thought she sounded somewhat like a female Jason Mraz, minus the acoustic vibes. The verses have that same flow that he has. She has also been compared to Fiona Apple, Cat Power, and Jewel, which is a pretty big accomplishment for someone so new to the industry.

Melody has the potential to boost Kate Earl into pop stardom. She would also put some fresh air into the small group of female pop stars that are out there today. It's a simple song with, as the title states, a nice melody. Listen to this song if your tired of Lady GaGa, Miley Cyrus, and everything else that sounds almost identical. Every now and then you want a break from the questionable music that floods the air waves. That's where Melody comes in...

Katy Perry - Waking Up In Vegas

Once again, the controversial pop star, Katy Perry has a number one hit. Her newest single, Waking Up In Vegas, follows the footprints of her past hits, such as I Kissed A Girl and Hot N Cold, by climbing the charts. This comes to a total of three number one singles on the Billboard Pop Charts.

Her blueprint for a hit seemed to be "dance beat and catchy melody", with no concern when it comes to the lyrics. "Vegas", from her album "One Of The Boys" is a bit lacking when it comes to most of those categories. Her previous singles were implanted into your brain, making you hum throughout the day, even if you hated them. This single doesn't stick. You might remember it for fifteen minutes after hearing it, but then it will fade. Unless you follow everything Perry does, Waking Up In Vegas will be no more than a guilty pleasure song. One you would only listen to when you're alone, with your car windows rolled up. If you want some shameless pop music you can dance to, you might be better off listening to Lady GaGa...