Swedish House Mafia Featuring John Martin - Don't You Worry Child

November 27, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

For the last few weeks I've been planning on reviewing this song, but its music video has always stopped me. I think I just don't want to give a bad rating to an amazing song, one of which is Swedish House Mafia's last single before their indefinite hiatus. However here goes nothing.

Swedish House Mafia are a three piece dance band from Sweden. They consist of Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso. They are currently in the middle of their final tour before they go on their hiatus. Their reason for breaking up is that they aren't sure where they want to go next. By the looks of things, they want to do different things. However I reckon this won't be the last we'll see of them, and it's quite possible future collaborations between the members will be on the cards. John Martin once again collaborates with this band, the first song being "Save The World". He has such a great voice, and if he doesn't get around to releasing songs himself I will be left shocked and surprised as he deserves to do well.

"Don't You Worry Child" was written by Axel Hedfors (Axwell), Sebastian Ingrosso, Steve Angello, John Martin Lindstrõm and Michel Zitron. The band says the inspiration for the song comes from the beauty of Australia. However if that was the case why do we have footage from Milton Keynes, UK?

Okay I have to admit, I really don't like these types of music video, as you have probably guessed in similar blog posts. I just feel these have been done over and over again, and if you are willing to do a music video like this, at least switch it up!

A few examples that come to mind for switching it up, is DixonBeats & Dante's "Afraid" and Avril Lavigne's "Losing Grip". This music video just shows footage from their concert at Milton Keynes and it leaves me bored.

I totally understand that these music videos are done for their fans. That if you were in the crowd at that time you would be so happy that you'll be featuring in a music video. However it doesn't make it a good music video. If you were going to do this, then at least release it as a promotional video and then a few weeks later release an official music video. Personally, when videos like this come up, I can't help but think "lazy", it's the one word that runs through my mind every time.

Overall a great song, that I love every time the clubs play it. The song definitely deserved that UK number one, and if I were reviewing the song it would be getting five stars. However I'm reviewing the music video alone, and this is a video I see artists releasing every single year, or more often, and I really don't enjoy watching it.

KT Tunstall - Suddenly I See

November 26, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

KT Tunstall, real name Kate Tunstall, has been around for quite some time. This song, however, is her highest UK charting single to date. I woke up with this song in my head, thanks to the amazing show "Being Erica" as this song sounds pretty similar to the theme tune which is "All I Ever Wanted" sung by Lily Frost.

"Suddenly I See" was written by KT Tunstall, as expected. The song is a tribute to female power, however it is one of those songs that could mean a whole range of stuff. This is what truly makes a song good. 2 people could listen to a song, both could like it lots, however for one it holds a dear emotional link and makes them stronger, for the other it may make them reflect on life and realise what they've been doing wrong. A song this powerful that can help the whole world deserves to be number one, unfortunately it only got to number 12 on the UK chart.

This music video is a pure performance piece, but what makes it stand out is that they've mixed it up and made it very different to what we are used to. It's a clever concept, and makes it seem symmetrical but they're two different performances of the song, put together. Which shows the variety we might get if we saw her live. Not my sort of thing, but a lot of people will enjoy it, and like how different it will be.

Of course I have a few things I don't like. That guy moving about. I don't know what he is doing, is he taking photos, or is he recording? I'm not sure, so why did they include him? Not only that but he messes it all up when the 2nd band comes through as he is standing right where the first one should be. It's confusing and annoying.

Overall a great song that I have already mentioned, should have been number one. The music video is interesting and different, however not much is going on to really draw my attention. However I like how you can see the looks the two bands give each other. Personally, I would've liked that to have been played up just that little bit more, like they were competing against one another.

New Release: Ke$ha - Die Young

November 26, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Ke$ha, real name Kesha Sebert, has finally released a new single, with it's album to be released next week. I have been waiting for ages, and I'm not the only one. Was it worth the wait? Definitely, have you not even heard this amazing song yet? I'm so glad she's back and I can see this new album "Warrior" performing better than "Animal" ever did. This is definitely one artist who will be around for a long time.

"Die Young" was written by Kesha Sebert, Lukasz Gottwald (Dr. Luke), Benjamin Levin (Benny Blanco), Henry Walter (Cirkut) and Nate Ruess (Lead Singer of Fun.). This is definitely a heavenly song writing team, all of which have appeared on my blog numerous times, but I don't think they have altogether and no wonder this song is fantastic, I really expect nothing less from these song writers. The song is infinitely catchy, it's meaning is to not take life too seriously and live every single day and second like it's your last. This reminds me so much of Nickleback's "If Today Was Your Last Day". The song is definitely going to make the UK chart, and it's slowly climbing up and up, could this be Ke$ha's second number one? It's climbing too slowly, but I wouldn't rule it out, there could be a possibility it could get there.

The music video is one of those that don't quite make sense unless you've watched it over and over. Here's what I thought: 1st Play, I really thought the video was rubbish. 2nd Play, it was a little clearer, but still wasn't sure of what was going on. After watching behind the scenes video and then 3rd Play, it makes perfect sense now. Thankfully we have Behind The Scenes Videos.

There is a storyline to this, Ke$ha is the leader of a cult or tribe, and practically living her life like it's her last day. And clearly just having fun.

I really like the choreography, it shows a side of her that we have never seen in any of her music videos before, and it shows a performance we are likely to see at her tours, and I'm surprised at how great she can dance, reminds me of Britney.

I like the ending, it really works. But I'm not too sure I'm happy about the symbolic imagery to the Illuminati, however, it is one of those things I am never going to be very knowledgeable on, I'm just not that interested. On the other hand I want to congratulate Ke$ha for deciding to make a statement (as always) and if that's what she wants to do then I can't really judge her for it, and no one else should.

Overall an amazing song, that is definitely number one worthy, but it looks doubtful that'll it'll get there, however we'll have to wait and see. The music video is pretty good, it relates to the song amazingly, but I feel that it takes too long for people to actually get it, and this could be something that prevents people from watching it a second time, and therefore Ke$ha could lose a few sales here and there, which is mightily important when you get high in the UK Chart.

The Black Eyed Peas - Don't Phunk With My Heart

November 20, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

After reviewing Fergie yesterday, I realised that I have never reviewed The Black Eyed Peas, so you can imagine the horror that struck my face at this revelation. So today I shall make up for not reviewing this band, by reviewing my favourite music video from these guys.

The Black Eyed Peas are a four piece band consisting of Will.I.Am (William Adams), Fergie (Stacy Ferguson), Apl.De.Ap (Allan Lindo, Jr.) and Taboo (Jaime Gómez). They have been a massive success all over the world, and I bet everyone knows who they are, if someone doesn't have a clue, they have clearly been hiding under a rock for way too long. They are currently on a hiatus (second one now), how long this will last no one knows, but they will be returning in the future, and they will not disappoint.

"Don't Phunk With My Heart" was written by William Adams, Stacy Ferguson, Printz Board, George Pajon Jr., Full Force, Anadi and Indeewar. The song samples a few different songs which are: "I Wonder If I Take You Home" by Lisa Lisa And Cult Jam with Full Force & "Ae Naujawan Sab Kuchh Yahan" and "Yeh Mera Dil Pyaar Ka Diwana" by Asha Bhosle. It was my favourite song back then and I wasn't happy that it only made number 3 on the UK chart, it really deserved to have gone higher. I also like how they have linked the song in with the music video.

I really can't fault this video at all, it is based on TV shows such as The Price Is Right, The Dating Game and Love Connection (I have only heard the first one, the others were American only TV Shows). And I like the whole concept, especially the teleports and how they go on different dates each time.

I also like how the members in the band all play different characters, some of which play more than one character, which makes it extremely interesting to watch. Will.I.Am plays himself, Voodoo Thursday and the drummer in the live band. Fergie plays herself only. Apl.De.Ap plays himself, the guitarist and the announcer. Taboo plays himself and the keyboard player.

I can't fault this video apart from the unfairness of Voodoo Thursday, and I remember hating him as a child when I first saw this video. I'm all into fairness, and I think Fergie should've worked out what Voodoo Thursday was up to right at the end, but then again some people are in denial of the whole events.

Overall, a great song that I can't help but still like today, seven years after it's release. The music video is definitely top-notch, and I reckon it would be hard to find a better video from that year, however that's my personal opinion and there might well be a better one from 2005. But I can't find anything wrong with this one, so you can all clearly imagine what rating I'm going to give it.

Fergie Featuring Will.I.Am - Fergalicious

November 19, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Fergie, real name Stacy Ferguson, is another artist to have never appeared on my blog. She first found fame (a little bit at least) in a three-piece girl band called Wild Orchid, the band's success stayed only in America and soon dissipated. But this wasn't the end of Fergie, no way. She found fame a second time when she joined the band The Black Eyed Peas (unfortunately they too have never been on this blog, this really needs rectifying soon). The Black Eyed Peas have been going strong and went on a hiatus a few years back, this was where Fergie's solo career hit it off. The band then reformed for a few albums, but once again they are on hiatus. I can see a new album ahead for Fergie and I can tell it's going a smash hit. As for the collaborator, it's fellow The Black Eyed Peas band member Will.I.Am, real name William Adams. He has had huge success and it's become bigger and better for him in the most recent years. The sky is not the limit for these artists, they'll go into alien territory fairly soon.

"Fergalicious" was written by William Adams and Stacy Ferguson, however it samples "Supersonic" by J. J. Fad and "Give It All You Got" by Afro-Rican, and therefore the respected song writing credits for those songs also are credited for this song. These are Dania Maria Birks, Juana Michelle Burns, Juanita Lee, Kim Nazel, Derrick Rahming, Fatimah Shaheed, Karl Bartos, Ralf Huetter and Florian Schneider-Esleben. The song is very catchy and as soon as I hear it, it is stuck in my head for the rest of the day, pretty much like it has been today. The song got into my head yesterday as Alexandra Stan's song "Lollipop (Param Pam Pam)" was playing on my iTunes and that song samples "Fergalicious". For those who are unaware, I heard the song off her album "Saxobeats" that got released last month in the UK.

This music video reminds me a lot of a fairly new music video by Katy Perry Featuring Snoop Dogg "California Gurls". I'm really surprised that no lawsuit has come up, as they are quite a like.

I have to be honest, I'm not too sure if I like the video or not. The song is similar to her other songs including "Glamorous", but the music video is so different, and shows this fun, sexy side of Fergie that we rarely get to see. I advise you not to look at the YouTube comments as some are quite disgusting to read, and a little over the top.

I haven't got much to say because if I go into any more detail I will be comparing it to "California Gurls" and I don't want to do that. However this does seem like they've decided to parody that Katy Perry Featuring Snoop Dogg music video, on the other hand Fergie and Will.I.Am released this video before Katy Perry and Snoop Dogg did, so clearly The Black Eyed Peas members found a time machine and zoomed forward a few years and took inspiration from what they found. Or Katy Perry and Snoop Dogg decided to make this video better. Whatever the conflict, they're both pretty good videos.

Overall an amazing song that should've charted a lot higher than 62 in the UK. The music video reminds me so much of another one, so much so that it has got me comparing them, which is the last thing I should be doing. The video could've been so much better, but it does look like a low budget, and what they have managed to pull out of the hat (or should I say cake?) is really good.

Buy on iTunes

New Release: Girls Aloud - Something New

November 19, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Girls Aloud have returned! 2012 marks their 10 year anniversary, and although it's now late 2012, it still counts. They are a five piece girl band consisting of Cheryl Cole, Nadine Coyle, Nicola Roberts, Kimberley Walsh and Sarah Harding. All of which are famous names all by their selves. They first got together back in 2002 on Popstars: The Rivals. Since then they have had 4 number one singles, 20 top 10 consecutive singles (currently the UK record for the most top 10 consecutive hits by a girl band), and various successes all by their selves. Now they've reformed, but will it last? Have they gone their separate ways too far and there's no way this could work? Or is this going to be a total reformation that will stand the test of time?

"Something New" was written by Brian Higgins, Wayne Hector, Tim Deal, Matt Gray and Carla Mae Williams. It's being released as the official Children In Need single, making it Girls Aloud's second time releasing a Children In Need song, the first time being "I'll Stand By You", back in 2004. Personally I find it extremely catchy, but a little on the shouty side, as many critics before me have stated. However I think this comes from how their different styles don't quite harmonise the way we want them to. At the moment it's climbing up the UK chart, but it's struggling to get to the top spot, and it's going to be extremely difficult to get there as I don't think all their fans are that impressed by the single. And surprisingly, the music video is not so good either.

Before now, I would have said that most, if not all, of Girls Aloud's music videos are more than just good. But has this video made a turn for the worse? I really think this is their worst video so far, however there is links such as showing them as strong girls, but it also links in with the song because the song isn't amazing either, and the video isn't as well.

I don't even know where to go with this... The video is a performance piece, there's not enough going on but at the same time there's too much going on. This effect is caused due to editing and camera shots. And maybe we were expecting something wow, and it just doesn't meet our expectations.

After a few plays the song becomes incredibly catchy and you can't help but sing-a-long. However it still is missing a lot. The music video is also lacking too, there's no exact link in with the song and there's nothing to make me go wow. From any other artist this would be an okay video, however it's Girls Aloud, the band people would constantly watch their videos over and over... This one is one people will only watch once.

Scooter - The Logical Song

November 18, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Scooter gets my Sunday Revisit, as I didn't have much to choose from. I really, really wanted to review "The Question Is What Is The Question?", unfortunately the song was released in 2008, and all of my Sunday Revisits have to be at least 5 years old. So hopefully when next year comes around, I can go about doing a Sunday Revisit with that song. But until then we're going to have to deal with "The Logical Song".

As I mentioned in my most recent Scooter blog post, they are a hard dance band from Germany, consisting of H. P. Baxxter, Rick J. Jordan and Michael Simon. They have had a number of hits (this song being their highest, charting at number 2 in the UK), but they have been doing not so well lately, as no promotion are put into their releases, and therefore relying solely on radio play and music channel play. Their most recent songs haven't been charting, until last week when "4 A.M." got to number 188, thanks to people downloading it from the album: Clubland 22. Hopefully they'll officially release "4 A.M." at the right time and put a bit of promotion into it, and manage to get it to chart higher as it's an amazing song.

Once again I have gone off on a tangent. Now back with "The Logical Song". It was written by Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson. And heavily samples the original by Supertramp, that was also called "The Logical Song". Scooter's version got to number 2 on the UK chart back in 2002, easily beating their previous highest single: "Back In The U.K." which charted at number 18. Supertramp's original version got to number 7 on the UK chart, meaning Scooter's song was more of a hit.

The music video is both a performance and a narrative music video. Which is usually a great video in my eyes, however I don't think it links in well with the song and is sometimes a bit on the confusing side.

I like the idea of a drag race, but I'm not sure who wins, I presume it's Scooter but then again the car blows up, doesn't it, or am I viewing this completely wrong? They walk back towards the woman, who was driving the other car, through all the flames, unscathed. How is that even possible?

The performance side of things is something I've seen a thousand times in Scooter music videos, and it makes me question whether I actually want to see them live or not. Clearly the energy flows from the band, but they could be singing any song, there's no easy way to tell, and they are always doing the same thing over and over again.

Overall a great song that just missed out on the top spot like many great songs have. The music video is definitely mediocre, another typical Scooter video. I just don't know if they're all looking the same or not, I want to see something different, just like "Ti Sento" is different. But then again they'll all be the same again. I think their videos are just something I can never make up my mind about.

Eric Turner Vs. Avicii - Dancing In My Head

November 17, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Eric Turner. He is the lead singer of rock band: Street Fighting Man, and most known for the collaboration with Tinie Tempah for "Written In The Stars". So where does this guy fit in? Literally everywhere, from rock, to r&b, to dance, and he obviously fits in each genre, will he ever find his niche, or forever be this artist that will release something different each time. If it's the latter, will the public like that? I hope so as his voice is amazing.

This collaboration is with Avicii, real name Tim Bergling, but occasionally goes by the name of Tim Berg. I am a big fan of Avicii, and just hearing this song, you kind of know it's an Avicii song.

"Dancing In My Head" is a great song, and I can't stop listening to it. It has managed to chart in the UK, at number 188, but I reckon it deserved to chart higher.

I have never ever seen this music video, and I don't think many others have either, so it's quite a shock to the system to watch this, so if you're reading this before watching the video, just be on your guard for something shocking, or should I say sawing?

I like the start, reminds me so much of other people and a bit of me. However I like how he really isn't confident, but he is when it comes to taking his brain out. It still gives me the shakes thinking of that scene, seriously heaving here and I'm just typing about it.

I wasn't quite sure where this video was going, and I just couldn't help laughing with the following scene, really wasn't expecting that at all.

The ending is a typical ending, but the brain started looking cute, don't ask me why but the editing made it look cute, and then he messes it all up by talking right at the end. Seriously couldn't they have made it a happy ending, making people be more confident in going up to girls and talking to them?

Overall, an amazing song that deserved to have charted a lot higher than it did. The music video is disgusting, but it is done in complete humour and I cannot help but laugh a lot. However it's not something I'd willingly watch again, I think I might skip the certain part. I'm in two minds about the rating, but since it's fully humorous I'm going for the highest rating possible, as it clearly deserves it.

Buy on iTunes

Scooter - 4 A.M.

November 16, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Scooter is a German hard dance band consisting of 3 members who are H. P. Baxxter, Rick J. Jordan and Michael Simon. I used to be a big fan, back in 2008 when they were getting a few chart successes in the UK. But just like Infernal, they have stopped charting, and although they are still releasing singles there is hardly any promotion and even though some are still being shown on the music channels, people are unaware of when the song will be released, along with being unaware that they have new music. The song features vocals from Jaye Marshall, she is the female singer in "4 A.M.", and she is a power house. She's amazing and definitely someone who's bound to hit it worldwide very soon. If she disappears I think I might have to curl up and die, as Jaye Marshall is amazing and I NEED to hear more music from her in the future.

This song came to my attention last week when I went home from uni. I was watching the music channels (as I've been missing them) and Clubland TV was counting down the most requested music videos, and this one was number one. The song samples Otto Knows' song "Million Voices". Could "4 A.M." be the song that pushes Scooter back into the UK limelight? It's already climbing up the UK iTunes top 1000 thanks to people downloading the track from the new album: Clubland 22. Clearly this song will be released soon, I just have my fingers crossed that it is released with some promotion, so that people know it's available and it does chart, as we need the full force of Scooter back.

This music video is an expected Scooter music video, however I feel the band has a more active role in this video, which is quite surprising and quite different.

The song is about clubbing and that is what we see, it looks more like a house party turned into a club. But this is also who this song is aimed at. However I wish UK DJs will pick up this song as I can see it being a big hit for the UK Clubs.

I like the story-like start and how everything links in well with the lyrics. However the lyrics is repeated over and over, so it's not lyrically great, but Jaye Marshall is vocally amazing so they cancel each other out.

Overall it's a phenomenal song that should chart well in the UK, if it's released at the right time and all the fans know it's been released. The music video is a typical Scooter video, with extra bits that are great to watch. I love how we see the sun rise suggesting they've done an all-nighter. But it gives me very little to comment on unfortunately. So here's my rating.

Buy on iTunes

Pink - Sober

November 15, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Pink, real name Alecia Moore, is one of those singers that are always going to be in the music industry. She has released a lot of great songs, however I'm not too keen on her new ones, and I have to admit that I used to be a fan, but now I've kind of gone off her, and I'm not sure why.

Today I woke up still half-drunk from drinking the night before, but for some reason this song was playing over and over in my mind all morning even though I was far from sober. It was the second release from her most amazing album "Funhouse". Personally, I don't think she has ever released a better album. This song was written by Pink, Nate Hills (Danja), Kara DioGuardi and Marcella Araica. All of these song-writers have appeared on my blog already, and clearly this song was going to be a hit. Apparently Pink started writing this song when she hosted a house party, everyone else was drinking and she was sober, and she just wanted everyone to leave. And this music video reflects that perfectly.

The video didn't make much sense to me when I was younger and first saw it on the music channels. Only today I watched it and started laughing, realising that the music channels had cut certain scenes out, for obvious reason. It now makes perfect sense to me.

There's a lot to like about this video. I like that there are two Pinks; we are left to believe one is actually her (the one who's sober), and the other is her doppelgänger (the drunk one). I find it incredibly clever how they have managed to film this especially when she makes out with herself, and we are left to presume they'll have sex together.

I have no problems with this music video at all. It works well with the song and I love the idea behind it. The song is extremely catchy as well. The video speaks for itself, leaving me with extremely little to comment on. I also feel I have no choice on the rating to give as it deserves nothing less.

Otto Knows - Million Voices

November 14, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Otto Knows, real name Otto Jettmann, is a Swedish DJ, who is mostly known for this song as it charted all over Europe. He has collaborated with quite a few artists including Avicii with the song "iTrack". He is going be one of these people you have to keep an eye on, as I reckon he'll pull out a number one hit soon, however it'll be all down to how much the radio and the clubs will play the song. "Million Voices" was written by Otto Jettmann and it managed to chart at number 14 in the UK. No sign of any new songs to be released, but I bet he is working on them. This isn't going to be the last we've heard of Otto Knows.

So this isn't really an official music video. On the other hand it is the closest we are ever going to get. This song keeps on getting played in the clubs, so how could I not do this song as it is incredibly catchy.

I have to bare in mind that this is a fan-based music video, using a lot of clips that were borrowed. I think the editing technique works well with the song, and you just can't help but laugh at some of the clips, however there is some that shock you, some that make you upset that someone would do such a thing, and some that makes you want to go "awwww" as that panda is definitely cute.

Some celebrities can be found, however I am not 100% sure it's them, and I don't think other people are sure either.

Overall it's a catchy song, and I reckon it will be sampled a lot in other songs, and will be played in the clubs for some time, this song is never going to die. As for the not-official music video, it's fun to watch and makes you emotional, it links in with the song. However it's obvious that it's not the official music video. I really wish that Otto Knows filmed an official video, because I would've liked to have seen if he could've topped this video (it would be pretty difficult).

Buy on iTunes

Bb - Be Like Me

November 13, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

As you all know I prefer to do requests than choose a video off the top of my head, because I know someone wants my opinion. Here's another request, someone commented on the Suggestions page, and I'm so glad they did.

Bb is a rapper from Birmingham, UK, the same place I am from, and he is definitely making a name for himself. He has supported quite a few big star artists on their tours in the UK, and his music videos can be found on music channels. As you may know I'm not into rap or hip-hop as there isn't many blog posts of this genre, however I kind of like this song, and I especially like the constant repeat of "Be Like Me".

This music video is a typical, low-budget rap/hip-hop music video, however there are editing techniques that makes this much more intriguing along with certain scenes that I don't expect.

I have to admit, the start is a little boring, and I was waiting for something to happen. Only when watching it a second time things do happen and the scene changes to 4 dancers, but they're in the dark, so hidden well. The 4 dancers are only young but wow they are pretty good.

I like the editing of the people, it kind of draws me in. Being able to see the lyrics of some of the words Bb raps to, definitely makes this video that little bit better. My favourite bit is when they connect all the scenes together, Bb catches an imaginary something, I presume it's a ball, then he throws it, and in a different scene a dancer catches it, then he throws it and the 4 dancers catch it. It's great to watch and makes this stand out a lot more.

However I feel not a lot is going on, it's very one-on-one and it seems a bit on the detached side. There's a few subtle links with the song but there's only a few, however I do like seeing the TV where we see a music channel playing his music video to "I Want You Back".

Overall a song that took it's time to grow on me, but that is what it has done. It's accompanying music video is missing quite a bit, but it is also entertaining to watch and a bit different to your usual rap/hip-hop music video therefore making it stand out from the crowd. I am torn between two different ratings, which do I choose... Okay I'm going with this one, I hope you all agree with the rating.

DixonBeats & Dante - Afraid

November 12, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

So an unofficial request came through twitter the other day. BH (producer) sent me a new collaboration called "Fade Into Darkness" that was by DixonBeats & BH. They wanted my thoughts on the song and I loved it lots. Unfortunately there is no music video, and according to a tweet from DixonBeats, it doesn't look like there is going to be one either. However DixonBeats sent me another of his songs that actually has a music video, and now I'm ready to review it.

DixonBeats, real name Aaron Dixon, is from Birmingham, West Midlands, UK. The same city as where I am from (and quite a few celebrities), and it looks like DixonBeats is going to become the next big thing in the next few years, so keep an eye out for him. This song is a collaboration with Dante, I can't find much about Dante only a few songs and a facebook profile that hasn't been used in the last few months. This song took it's time to grow on me, however, even though it is almost 5 minutes long, it seems to take 15 minutes to get through it, which gives me plenty of time for me to change my mind and now it sticks in my head too easily.

This music video is similar to others I have seen. The one that stands out the most to me is Swedish House Mafia Featuring Laidback Luke and Deborah Cox "Leave The World Behind". however unlike that music video "Afraid" has a much better vibe and manages to draw me in so much that I believe I'm there dancing with everyone else.

That is what you need in a video like this, to draw the audience in, much like a book does, so that the people watching feel like they're seeing through their own eyes and not through a camera. Usually this is extremely hard to pull off, but these have made it look easy.

They have even kept to the song and when it goes gentle in the middle, they show people swimming in the water, something so peaceful and so opposite to clubbing, but somehow they are the same thing, as they are connected through having fun.

Overall a catchy song that grows on you really quickly, and a music video that just blasts the similar ones into the water, as this music video is definitely the way to do this type. The only thing I don't like about it is that I feel some of the scenes are too quick or too slow, and the camera isn't always in the best position. However everything else is perfect.

New Release: Inna Featuring Flo Rida - Club Rocker

November 12, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Well as you may know, there are quite a few new releases this week, but I narrowed it down to two, it was between Inna and Little Mix's "DNA", the only reason I chose Inna was because it is currently doing not that well on the iTunes top 1000, and I hope to help a little bit with this review, whereas Little Mix is climbing up that chart quickly.

Inna, real name Elena Apostoleanu, is one of these artists who have had quite a few chart hits, and then a few that didn't make the chart, but was worthy of it. She has yet to promote any songs or albums in the UK, relying on fans and music channels, hence why this one might not get on to the UK chart, although it definitely deserves it. The collaboration comes from Flo Rida, real name Tramar Dillard. He has become extremely popular, and you would think that this collaboration would help this song climb higher and higher, but there's just zilch, nothing.

"Club Rocker" was written by Sebastian Barac, Radu Bolfea and Marcel Botezan. Once again, the same names are popping up, and clearly they are writing amazing songs, it's just the lack of promotion that is unfortunately making this song fail, amongst the others. I hope it will climb up the chart as it's extremely catchy and Inna deserves it.

This music video... What do I even say about it... Once again we see the flirtatious Inna found in her previous music videos, however what makes this video different is the similarities to other artist's music video. There is many music videos that link, but let's just name a few, there's Taio Cruz's "Dynamite", Rihanna's "Shut Up And Drive", Basshunter's "Angel In The Night", Kylie Minogue's "All The Lovers" and Lady GaGa's "Born This Way", there are others so if you can come up with some comment below and I'll be more than happy to add them.

However this isn't just a basic mash-up of music videos, there is a storyline and that is what makes this a lot more complete as to other mash-up videos. I like the start using Twitter to ask to compete in a race. I like the race overall and of course Inna has to win. I definitely like the lift, but what do you expect?

Flo Rida doesn't make an appearance, however his vocals can be heard at the start and I think they should've had a scene with him in.

Overall, a very catchy song that was made for the UK, but unfortunately not enough people know about the song, and therefore it won't catch on. As for the accompanying music video, it's fun to watch, it's a mash-up of other videos we have seen, but they have made it complete and interesting.

Buy on iTunes

Esmée Denters - It's Summer Because We Say So

November 05, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Esmée Denters, yes you heard that name correctly, she is BACK! She is well known for her song "Outta Here" and her collaborations with Chipmunk on "Until You Were Gone" and Justin Timberlake on "Love Dealer". She was labelled as an R&B artist, but I don't think the UK took to her, and soon enough other countries world-wide started to become disinterested. She disappeared for two years, and now she is back, with a complete new direction in music. Is this right? I think so, and I think she thinks so too. Could this be her way of staying in the limelight. We'll just have to wait and see.

"It's Summer Because We Say So" is definitely not the sort of song I would've expected Esmée Denters to sing, but here she is, and here I am, reviewing something worthy enough to be a Cascada song. It was released last week, but I don't think many people realised she had released a new song, again lack of promotion, furthermore I found it difficult to find as it is under her first name only of Esmée, is this the name we are supposed to go by now? And if so, how come she hasn't changed her facebook and twitter profiles?

This music video is clearly low budget. It's missing a hell of a lot. I can't imagine the music channels picking this video up and showing it, it's just not commercial enough, it doesn't exude what you really want and need from a video like this, and although, for some people, Esmée is enough, for others it just isn't.

I don't even know where to comment on this video, there's just not enough there. I like the photo booth, but it's a common item found in previous low-budgeted music videos.

I really haven't got much else to say. The song should've been a massive summer hit, but it came out too late and wasn't promoted enough (3 Beat Records really need to step up their game). The music video had so much promise, but doesn't work and doesn't stand out. I have to go with my brain on this rating, and I really don't like dipping this low for ratings, but guess I have no choice. however the song is definitely much better than the video, her voice is fantastic, and I hope she gets her big break soon!

New Release: Rita Ora - Shine Ya Light

November 05, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Rita Ora has been mentioned quite a few times on this blog, and here is another fantastic song. She has so far had 3 consecutive number ones in the UK, plus a number one album. Will this song make it a fourth? Well it seems doubtful, with extreme competition with many other well-known artists. But guess we'll find out on Sunday, and sure enough she is promoting a lot, she performed the song yesterday on The X Factor, and apparently there are various other performances lined up.

"Shine Ya Light" was written by Chris Loco, Fraser T Smith and Laura Pergolizzi (L.P.). Personally I don't think this song is as great as her previous singles "R.I.P." and "How We Do (Party)", however more radio and music channel play will definitely get this song running over and over in my head as it's such a catchy little song. Is it number one worthy? Probably not, but Rita Ora is always number one worthy, so with the help of the radio, I can see this song getting there, but it's going to be quite the battle.

This music video takes Rita Ora back to her roots of Kosovo. It reminds me a lot of Nicki Minaj's "Pound The Alarm" because she did the exact same thing, and even though the videos are different, the idea behind it isn't too different.

I like the natural narrative, it just shows Rita being in Kosovo, and also shows the UK what it is like over there. However I feel that it doesn't link in with the song, which is usually a must with this sort of song.

I do like the performance bit, it shows how confident she is and ready for what comes her way, especially when she is on the "Newborn" sign.

There are various scenes that are interesting too, the motorbikes stand out the most to me reminding me of Shakira featuring Dizzee Rascal's "Loca". However I also think there is a small scene that reminds me of another video, and that is when she has her hair wet and combed back. It reminds me a lot of Pixie Lott's "All About Tonight".

Overall a great song that becomes pretty catchy after a few listens. As for the music video, it's very different to when we first saw her feature in DJ Fresh's "Hot Right Now", but it also shows how versatile she is, and how much she believes in her roots, which always gets a thumbs up from me. The only thing missing is the link with the song, and this song is so story-like, that you don't expect this sort of video. However it does link as she is shining her light and showing that no matter who you are, you can get somewhere. But I don't see that link strongly enough.

Infernal - I Won't Be Crying

November 04, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Infernal is my Sunday revisit, purely because I don't think I'll ever get another chance to review this music video, and I specifically remember liking this music video lots, but I have no clue why.

As I have previously covered in my blog post for "From Paris To Berlin", Infernal are a duo consisting of Lina Rafn and Paw Langermann. They have only had three of their singles hit the UK chart, this one being the third and last and lowest position. "I Won't Be Crying", was more or less the decider as to whether they will stay in the UK limelight or not. But since it charted at 123, Infernal disappeared from the UK, or so we thought. They are still releasing but with no promotion, only their devoted fans to spread the word, Infernal just may never reach the UK chart, let along succeed to the height of their popularity back in 2006.

This music video is one of those videos that you see a lot of. It reminds me of From Above's "Not The Same Girl" and Rudenko's "Everybody". There's bound to be a lot more that have this similar style. And the only way to switch it up is to make it your own, and I feel that Infernal has done that with a little humorous spin to things.

I like the storyline, it's really good and links with the song perfectly. I especially like how the guy thinks he is perfection, rather than it being the girl, which shows a complete role reversal. I like how they've drawn inspirations too, such as the mirrors.

I like how they have added the performance sided to things, clearly showing what the UK missed out on. This song didn't chart high enough and Infernal disappeared from the UK chart altogether. However it was definitely worthy of getting much higher in the chart, as the vocals on this track is amazing, and I'm struck in awe every time I hear this track. I hope Infernal comes into the UK limelight once again, however it's not looking promising.

Steve Appleton - City Won't Sleep

November 03, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Steve Appleton is a singer/songwriter. He has released 3 singles and an album. Only one of the singles managed to chart, and it was a low charting position of 67, which was for "Dirty Funk". The following singles failed to chart. I have to admit, I have no idea why, maybe people didn't like the songs? But he did do a lot of promoting, so is it really worth it? So where is he now? Well he is releasing in Japan. His first single got to number two, he is a pretty big hit over there. This song has to be my favourite, I think it's really catchy. It was his second single to be released and didn't even chart.

This music video is your general boy band-esque  video, except it's a young adult, with no other guys with him, which makes you question who was behind this guy, record label and producer wise.

There's a narrative behind it, he sees this girl he likes and goes out and watches a magic trick, she then picks him up in a car and they have fun, but then he is dropped off and it's morning, and it's just a kiss to say goodbye, clearly a "one night stand" did happen as she requested on the card.

It is just too quick, too fast and not enough is given, however I do like the guitar solos in the video and shows his musical ability.

Overall, another song that should've charted but didn't and a music video that is more suited to a boy band rather than a male singer. It's too quick and easy, but great to watch at times. I'm in two minds about this video, don't know whether to like it or not, so I'll play it safe and strike through the middle.

Inna - Love

November 02, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Inna's real name is Elena Apostoleanu. You all knew this one was coming, because she is finally releasing her most recent album "I Am The Club Rocker" next week in the UK. Will it actually chart well, I hope so. However the only promotion for it is hearsay over twitter, and that is it. And not many people know about its release. So I doubt it will chart high, although I hoping I'm proven wrong.

"Love" was written by Sebastian Barac, Radu Bolfea and Marcel Botezan. It is Inna's second single not to reach the UK top 200 after "10 Minutes". Now her count is four, 3beat Productions really need to do something quick with both Inna and Alexandra Stan as these brilliant artists just aren't making the charts, and that is because there is no promotion at all, so people are unaware that they have released new singles.

This music video is different to what you expect from the song, however I think it works and fits well, however it is quite on the unclear side, so much so that you don't quite know what is going on unless you've watched it a few times.

It seems quite on the low budget side, which is understandable since Inna can't possibly have great video after great video.

It has 4 main characters, a ballerina, a boxer, a martial arts person, and a staff person. They represent the good, whereas the characters dressed in black represent evil. Inna's in the middle, she's wearing white with a black belt. And although good is meant to be good, they are fighting the evil, fighting comes under evil right? And I think that is why Inna becomes confused, clearly not everything is black and white.

Overall a great song that should've at least charted. The music video shows Inna dancing, but I wouldn't call that dancing, maybe a few turns and hair whips. There's not a lot going on in the video and doesn't exactly link. However I do like the concept and the idea behind it.

Infernal - From Paris To Berlin

November 01, 2012 Critic Jonni 0 Comments

Infernal is a duo band consisting of Lina Rafn and Paw Lagermann. They have been releasing since 1997, but have only had 3 singles enter the UK chart. Believe it or not, they aren't giving up in the UK, or worldwide for that matter. One quick look on iTunes shows that they are still releasing their music in the UK and everywhere else. So how come it's not charting? Well a number of things: a) music channels aren't playing their music videos which leads on to, b) the band isn't promoting it so there's also no promotion from the music videos, c) even hearsay isn't getting around. Their music is apparently good but the band needs to promote it with appearances on TV shows, or a better record label.

"From Paris To Berlin" was written by Adam Powers, Paw Langermann and Lina Rafn. It caught on really quickly and managed to get to number two, just missing out on the top spot. It got covered for the World Cup 2006 with the title changed to "From London To Berlin" however it was pulled from radio after England got knocked out.

The music video reminds me a lot of Avicii Featuring Sebastien Drums song "My Feelings For You". It has that old game style to it, however if it were re-made the music video would look a lot better, but not too different.

I like the story line and fits perfectly with the song. I like how they added the game style to it, however the ending is pretty sad, as she has been searching for this guy she clearly likes and he's not even real.

Overall a great song, another one of those that should've been number one and just missed out. As for the music video, you can tell it didn't take much to create, and it's a little on the patchy side. Therefore I am knocking one star off.