Semi Precious Weapons - Semi Precious Weapons

Glam rock isn't a popular genre nowadays.  In the seventies, glam rock was at it's peak.  David Bowie was leading the way in this new genre.  Along with bands like Queen and T. Rex, this style of music saw it's rise and fall.  Semi Precious Weapons is taking the elements of glam rock, and updating it to today's standards.  The flashy clothes, androgyny, and wild rock is all still here, but can they continue the trend with as much power as before?

The single, "Semi Precious Weapons", is all out rock.  With a riff that seems almost too memorable, the song kicks off.  Vocalist, Justin Tranter, starts the song with, "I can't pay my rent, but I'm ******* gorgeous.".  His over the top vocals fit the song perfectly.  The song not only borrows from the glam genre, but it also has some punk rock influences.  It's a great song to start a party.

The band will be releasing an album later this year. Until then , you can check out their self titled EP.  They're currently on the Monster Ball tour with Lady Gaga. If that isn't a big enough stage, I don't know what is.  Semi Precious Weapons' wild and bold attitude, along with their crazy fashion, might staple them into the upcoming music scene.  I would definitely look out for their upcoming full length album this spring.

Anjulie - Boom

Much of today's radio-friendly pop music has major R&B and hip-hop influences.  The problem is, these songs don't use the elements of these genres to their advantage.  What ends up happening, is the creation of several songs that song exactly same.  Anjulie is a Canadian pop singer.  Her debut self titled album was released in the summer of  last year.  On that album was "Boom".  This song is made for pop success. It blends different musical styles and cultures to create something new and fresh.

"Boom" starts slow and minimal.  When the chorus comes, so do the horns.  Along with chimes and an organ, the song starts to pick up.  The second verse brings in the beat.  The pattern and instrumentation of the song is very unique and haunting.  The simple hook of, "Boom, shalaka", is genius.  That hook is what makes the song so memorable.

I would definitely check out this song if you want something that's catchy and unique.  If you like Amy Winehouse then you might enjoy Anjulie.  The bass focused horns and R&B influences are present in both artist's music.  The song also has a slight Middle Eastern or Indian tinge too it.  This flare adds even more to the song.  After you hear this single, you'll be singing "Boom" for hours.

La Bella Charade - Self Titled EP

Pop-punk music is usually made up of big sing-along choruses and overly emotional vocalists.  The songs are short and fast, little bits of uncontrollable energy.  Not often do you find an album of the genre that flows together as one piece.  La Bella Charade's debut self titled EP does just that.  From the beginning to the end, the EP sounds, and feels, like a complete album.

The five song EP is a great intro for the St. Louis based quartet.  They establish themselves in a crowd among well known names such as Fall Out Boy and Paramore.  The album is actually very reminiscent of Fall Out Boy's debut, Take This To Your Grave.  It's exciting and raw.  If they keep this style instead of transitioning into a pop-rock band, then they could gain a following of listeners who are striving for this musical style.

In many of the songs, harmonizing is key.  This technique is something the band has utilized to it's potential.  While the vocals could use some fine tuning, they're strong enough to stand out among other similar bands.

I would check out La Bella Charade if you enjoy bands such as Fall Out Boy, Taking Back Sunday, New Found Glory, and Paramore.  Pop-punk fans should be prepared for this band.  They have the potential to rise above the masses.  To find more info on this band, check out their website, here.

Bad Veins - Gold And Warm

When executed properly, duos can be amazing.  Duos such as The Kills, The Raveonettes, She & Him, and The White Stripes all make unique music. Bad Veins is another pair that manages to succeed at the duo game.  They released their self-titled album last summer.  It consists of solid alternative rock tunes, with a dance rock twist.

"Gold And Warm" starts off with a mystical intro filled with harps and strings, but this doesn't last long.  The drum beat kicks in, and then the fuzzy guitars.  While the song gets distorted, the harp and strings can still be heard along the track.  They give the song a gentle sweeping feeling.  A great chorus is always welcome. Apparently, Bad Veins got the memo, because this chorus is no exception, it's great.  It's the type of chorus that will have you humming for quite a while after you hear it.

The band definitely has alternative rock radio material with "Gold And Warm".  If you like The Killers, The Bravery, and similar alternative bands with dance-synth elements, then you'll probably love this song.  The song is very similar to the big named bands of the genre, yet it isn't quite as polished.  Bad Veins will have a great future ahead of them if they keep this up.

Janelle Monáe - Cold War

Janelle Monae has a unique style. Her debut album, Metropolis: The Chase Suite, had an intergalactic theme.  Monae created an alter ego for her EP.  Cindi Mayweather, as she was known as, sings a strange concept in the set of songs.  Her android image only added to her amazing sense of musicianship  On her sophomore album, the Grammy nominated artist is back with even more energy than before.

"Cold War" is one of the singles from the upcoming album.  The song is fresh, upbeat, and the vocals are great.  This track is definitely radio hit material.  Monae has such a distinctive tone to her voice.  Add this to the energy and passion she puts into the lyrics, and you have a standout track.  Towards the end out the track, there's an impressive guitar solo.  The instrumental matches Janelle's vibe perfectly.

Her album, The ArchAndroid, will be released May 18th.  Until then, you can check out "Cold War" and the other pre-release single, "Tightrope", which features Big Boi.  I prefer "Cold War" over "Tightrope".  The song has much more star power.  If the album is as unique as the two singles, then listeners are in for a treat.  I see Janelle Monae as an artist on the verge of major success.