30 June 2011
2011: Soundmunches #29
Coldplay - Every Teardop is a Waterfall
David Guetta - Where Them Girls At
Noah & The Whale - Life is Life
Radiohead - Staircase
Joe Jonas - See No More
Cobra Starship - You Make Me Feel (feat. Sabi)
Nicki Minaj - Super Bass
Mona - Shooting The Moon
LMFAO - Champagne Showers (feat Natalia Kills) (Music Video)
Colbie Caillat - Brighter Than The Sun (Music Video)
Nightcrawlers - Cryin' Over You (feat. Taio Cruz) (Music Video)
Matt Nathanson - Faster (Music Video)
Parachute - What You Know (Music Video)
Mat Kearney - Hey Mama
Patrick Stump - The City (feat. Lupe Fiasco) (Audio)
3OH!3 - Robot (Audio)
David Guetta - Where Them Girls At
Noah & The Whale - Life is Life
Radiohead - Staircase
Joe Jonas - See No More
Cobra Starship - You Make Me Feel (feat. Sabi)
Nicki Minaj - Super Bass
Mona - Shooting The Moon
LMFAO - Champagne Showers (feat Natalia Kills) (Music Video)
Colbie Caillat - Brighter Than The Sun (Music Video)
Nightcrawlers - Cryin' Over You (feat. Taio Cruz) (Music Video)
Matt Nathanson - Faster (Music Video)
Parachute - What You Know (Music Video)
Mat Kearney - Hey Mama
Patrick Stump - The City (feat. Lupe Fiasco) (Audio)
3OH!3 - Robot (Audio)
Labels: Soundmunches
So You Think You Can Dance (US Season 8) - Top 16
Melanie & Marko (Lyrical Hiphop) - I Got You by Leona Lewis
Choreographed by Nappytabs
LOVED THIS. Reminded me of 'Bleeding Love' by Mark and Chelsea/Chelsie. Nappytabs just come up with amazing choreographies. They're such a sweet couple, and they dance so in sync and cohesively. They better go really really far... Top 6 at least! The amount of emotion Marko invests in each performance is just incredible. A
Ryan and Ricky (Contemporary) - With Every Heartbeat by Robyn
Choreographed by Sonya Tayeh
I always associate Sonya with Robyn, because their styles are so similar! I like the concept of them having to part but still having this bond that ties them together. Really beautiful. They redeemed themselves from last week, I felt. Loved the fluidity in that robe. A-
Jordan & Tadd (Hiphop) - Memories by David Guetta & Kid Cudi
Choreographed by Nappytabs
Nappytabs just never fail to come up with such unique concepts. Ok, they had some difficulty putting on and taking off the clothes (though I'm very impressed with Tadd's putting on of the jeans, like omg fast), but they made it up with their quirky characters and their pumped-up dancing. B+
Caitlynn & Mitchell (Samba) - Put It In A Love Song by Alicia Keys and Beyonce
Choreographed by Jean-Marc Genereux
Damn, this was surprisingly good! Haha, their krumping was pretty fantastic - didn't see that coming. Mitchell's attitude can be slightly too-much-to-handle though. B+
Clarice & Jess (Foxtrot) - Fly Me To The Moon by Frank Sinatra
Choreographed by Jean-Marc Genereux
The height difference still makes things awkward, but they made the most out of it. Jess has this showy personality which I don't fancy too much sometimes. Clarice is really graceful in her dance, and they made things seem effortless. B
Sasha & Alexander (Contemporary) - Belong by Cary Brothers
Choreographed by Dee Caspary
The emotion the both of them gave was there. Good concept, save for the piano which doesn't really produce any notes. Don't know why the judges are pimping Sasha so much though! B
Miranda & Robert (Swing) - It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing) by Sophisticated Ladies Choreographed by Tyce Diorio
Liked the tapping part, not so much for the whole routine (especially the beginning) - don't really appreciate swing. Miranda is definitely evolving into something, as for Robert, he just needs to step out of that goofy zone. B-
Ashley & Chris (Jazz) - Lights Go Down by Telepathe
Choreographed by Sonya Tayeh
Wasn't particularly overwhelmed by this, especially since it's coming from Sonya. I thought a lot of those awkward movements weren't executed properly. Their make-up was really impressive, but that was all - I didn't connect a lot with it, like what Nigel said. B
Choreographed by Nappytabs
LOVED THIS. Reminded me of 'Bleeding Love' by Mark and Chelsea/Chelsie. Nappytabs just come up with amazing choreographies. They're such a sweet couple, and they dance so in sync and cohesively. They better go really really far... Top 6 at least! The amount of emotion Marko invests in each performance is just incredible. A
Ryan and Ricky (Contemporary) - With Every Heartbeat by Robyn
Choreographed by Sonya Tayeh
I always associate Sonya with Robyn, because their styles are so similar! I like the concept of them having to part but still having this bond that ties them together. Really beautiful. They redeemed themselves from last week, I felt. Loved the fluidity in that robe. A-
Jordan & Tadd (Hiphop) - Memories by David Guetta & Kid Cudi
Choreographed by Nappytabs
Nappytabs just never fail to come up with such unique concepts. Ok, they had some difficulty putting on and taking off the clothes (though I'm very impressed with Tadd's putting on of the jeans, like omg fast), but they made it up with their quirky characters and their pumped-up dancing. B+
Caitlynn & Mitchell (Samba) - Put It In A Love Song by Alicia Keys and Beyonce
Choreographed by Jean-Marc Genereux
Damn, this was surprisingly good! Haha, their krumping was pretty fantastic - didn't see that coming. Mitchell's attitude can be slightly too-much-to-handle though. B+
Clarice & Jess (Foxtrot) - Fly Me To The Moon by Frank Sinatra
Choreographed by Jean-Marc Genereux
The height difference still makes things awkward, but they made the most out of it. Jess has this showy personality which I don't fancy too much sometimes. Clarice is really graceful in her dance, and they made things seem effortless. B
Sasha & Alexander (Contemporary) - Belong by Cary Brothers
Choreographed by Dee Caspary
The emotion the both of them gave was there. Good concept, save for the piano which doesn't really produce any notes. Don't know why the judges are pimping Sasha so much though! B
Miranda & Robert (Swing) - It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing) by Sophisticated Ladies Choreographed by Tyce Diorio
Liked the tapping part, not so much for the whole routine (especially the beginning) - don't really appreciate swing. Miranda is definitely evolving into something, as for Robert, he just needs to step out of that goofy zone. B-
Ashley & Chris (Jazz) - Lights Go Down by Telepathe
Choreographed by Sonya Tayeh
Wasn't particularly overwhelmed by this, especially since it's coming from Sonya. I thought a lot of those awkward movements weren't executed properly. Their make-up was really impressive, but that was all - I didn't connect a lot with it, like what Nigel said. B
Labels: SYTYCD
29 June 2011
The Voice (US) - Finals
How is this show almost over? On American Idol we'd still be at the point where someone is dressed like an armadillo and someone else seems homeless. Now we're supposed to judge their voices without knowing how many family members of theirs died in house fires? Can something so straightforward last another season?
Coaches Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton, Adam Levine and Cee Lo Green opened the show with a rendition of "Under Pressure" by Queen. They chose that song because it was the finals. Hurhur.
Original Compositions
Javier Colon - Stitch By Stitch
This was one of the better original compositions, with a memorable chorus and bridge, and lyrics. It suited him to a tee. 8.5/10
Vicci Martinez - Afraid to Sleep
I thought she should've written a better song than this. I am on the fence with this one, because although this didn't showcase her vocal range adequately, it revealed the artist in her. Enjoyed it more as the performance approached the end. Question: Isn't the song a really sad one - if so, why is she jumping around so much? 7.0/10
Dia Frampton - Inventing Shadows
Dia's plea to a pessimistic lover had the most atmospheric promise until four guys in hats starting gyrating in shadow profile behind her for no obvious reason other than the word "shadow." She is so pretty, and if the votes were based on iTunes downloads, she stands a pretty good chance.. 8.0/10
Beverly McClellan - Love Sick
She totally trashed everyone in terms of showmanship and vocal execution. I loved the LOVE SICK LOVE SICK hook. I am still doubtful about her winning this competition, shouldn't singing competitions be about finding fresh blood? 8.0/10
Duets
Cee Lo Green & Vicci Martinez - Love Is A Battlefield
What's with all those small kids and Papa Cee Lo? The staging reminded me of Kelly Rowland's 'Commander' video. It's goddamn weird whenever they start singing the chorus, because I can't help but revisit Brooke White's peaceful rendition it. Having said that, this was good, with some great cohesion between the both of them. Found the 'woh-ooh-woh-ooh-woo-ooh' part quite addictive. 7.5/10
Blake Shelton & Dia Frampton - I Won't Back Down
So cute to see the both of them wearing Raybans and matching suits! I enjoyed the chemistry they shared so much, and they seemed to have so much fun. It's obvious that they share the most love with each other as mentor-student. I love her pink guitar. 8.0/10
Christina Aguilera & Beverly McClellan - Beautiful
I smiled when I saw the song they were about to perform. The harmonies that they created were simply stunning. And for the first time, Christina actually subdued herself to let Beverly shine in this number. This was magical. 9.0/10
Adam Levine & Javier Colon - Man In The Mirror
Sorry, all my attention was focused on Levine for this one. DUH, who's obviously better?! Adam 10/10, Javier 8.0/10
PREDICTIONS
4th: Vicci Martinez (who beat Nakia 126-74. View Semi-Final results here.)
3rd: Beverly McClellan (I still doubt her fanbase) (who beat Frenchie Davis 107-93)
2nd: Javier Colon (who beat Casey Weston 138-62)
1st: Dia Frampton (who beat Xenia 106-94)
ACTUAL RESULTS
4th: Beverly McClellan
3rd: Vicci Martinez
2nd: Dia Frampton
1st: Javier Colon (who won Dia by just 2 percentage points!!)
Coaches Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton, Adam Levine and Cee Lo Green opened the show with a rendition of "Under Pressure" by Queen. They chose that song because it was the finals. Hurhur.
Original Compositions
Javier Colon - Stitch By Stitch
This was one of the better original compositions, with a memorable chorus and bridge, and lyrics. It suited him to a tee. 8.5/10
Vicci Martinez - Afraid to Sleep
I thought she should've written a better song than this. I am on the fence with this one, because although this didn't showcase her vocal range adequately, it revealed the artist in her. Enjoyed it more as the performance approached the end. Question: Isn't the song a really sad one - if so, why is she jumping around so much? 7.0/10
Dia Frampton - Inventing Shadows
Dia's plea to a pessimistic lover had the most atmospheric promise until four guys in hats starting gyrating in shadow profile behind her for no obvious reason other than the word "shadow." She is so pretty, and if the votes were based on iTunes downloads, she stands a pretty good chance.. 8.0/10
Beverly McClellan - Love Sick
She totally trashed everyone in terms of showmanship and vocal execution. I loved the LOVE SICK LOVE SICK hook. I am still doubtful about her winning this competition, shouldn't singing competitions be about finding fresh blood? 8.0/10
Duets
Cee Lo Green & Vicci Martinez - Love Is A Battlefield
What's with all those small kids and Papa Cee Lo? The staging reminded me of Kelly Rowland's 'Commander' video. It's goddamn weird whenever they start singing the chorus, because I can't help but revisit Brooke White's peaceful rendition it. Having said that, this was good, with some great cohesion between the both of them. Found the 'woh-ooh-woh-ooh-woo-ooh' part quite addictive. 7.5/10
Blake Shelton & Dia Frampton - I Won't Back Down
So cute to see the both of them wearing Raybans and matching suits! I enjoyed the chemistry they shared so much, and they seemed to have so much fun. It's obvious that they share the most love with each other as mentor-student. I love her pink guitar. 8.0/10
Christina Aguilera & Beverly McClellan - Beautiful
I smiled when I saw the song they were about to perform. The harmonies that they created were simply stunning. And for the first time, Christina actually subdued herself to let Beverly shine in this number. This was magical. 9.0/10
Adam Levine & Javier Colon - Man In The Mirror
Sorry, all my attention was focused on Levine for this one. DUH, who's obviously better?! Adam 10/10, Javier 8.0/10
PREDICTIONS
4th: Vicci Martinez (who beat Nakia 126-74. View Semi-Final results here.)
3rd: Beverly McClellan (I still doubt her fanbase) (who beat Frenchie Davis 107-93)
2nd: Javier Colon (who beat Casey Weston 138-62)
1st: Dia Frampton (who beat Xenia 106-94)
ACTUAL RESULTS
4th: Beverly McClellan
3rd: Vicci Martinez
2nd: Dia Frampton
1st: Javier Colon (who won Dia by just 2 percentage points!!)
Labels: The Voice
28 June 2011
2011 TOP 60 MID-YEAR COUNTDOWN [#16 - #30]
16) Jessie J - Who You Are (Video Link)
The title-track sees Jessica Cornish return to an acoustic accompaniment, and this track makes for a fine closer in the album – it’s her Hometown Glory, without the raw emotion but touching nonetheless.
The title-track sees Jessica Cornish return to an acoustic accompaniment, and this track makes for a fine closer in the album – it’s her Hometown Glory, without the raw emotion but touching nonetheless.
17) Arctic Monkeys - Don't Sit Down 'Cause I've Moved Your Chair (Video Link)
The awkwardly-titled 'DSDCIMYC' kicks off with a trebly guitar line and Turner's psychedelic vocals before it all gets oh-so-heavy. This track is another bit of evidence for the band's admirable refusal to do the same old thing to keep people happy.
18) David Cook - The Last Goodbye (Video Link)
After releasing a first single in his debut album which hardly fitted his vocal range comfortably, this single from his sophomore album certainly sees Cook deliver some strong vocal delivery, solid storytelling and a sing-along chorus complete with Kings of Leon's "Use Somebody"-style "whoa ohs" come together.
19) Example - Changed The Way You Kissed Me (Video Link)
"Our love feels wrong, please wind me back/ Our love feels wrong can't hide the cracks," the 28-year-old sing-speaks over a hard-hitting bassline and techno synths - thrashing emotive lyrics about a failing relationship with an Euro-trance backing track.
19) Example - Changed The Way You Kissed Me (Video Link)
"Our love feels wrong, please wind me back/ Our love feels wrong can't hide the cracks," the 28-year-old sing-speaks over a hard-hitting bassline and techno synths - thrashing emotive lyrics about a failing relationship with an Euro-trance backing track.
20) Rihanna - S&M (Video Link)
Stargate give great Guetta in this club stomper, supplying a spot-on combination of ear-frotting hooks, rutting synths and pounding beats as Rihanna delivers a great vocal performance.
21) Lykke Li - Get Some (Video Link)
As compared to her debut album 'Youth Novel's, there’s nothing remotely vulnerable or damaged about ‘Get Some’, the lead single from Li’s second album. From the thunderous beat to the wildcat howls of the chorus, its confident, predatory, and in control.
22) Death Cab For Cutie - You Are A Tourist (Video Link)
"When there's a burning in your heart. . . . /Build it bigger than the sun/Let it grow," Death Cab frontman Ben Gibbard sings. The advice floats over a buoyant yet muscular groove, and ringing guitars push toward the arena-friendly rock of Coldplay and U2. The "inspirational" message feels flat – but the bright package it's wrapped in inspires trust.
23) The Strokes - Under Cover Of Darkness (Video Link)
What hits you about 'Under Cover Of Darkness' is how much it apes the early Strokes sound. Despite its beefier production and occasionally twiddly guitar work, it could still slip between any two tracks on that first album and not sound out of place. Sharp, jagged riffs, Julian Casablancas's throaty vocals and the delightfully simple drums recall 'Last Nite', 'Someday' and the rest.
24) Lady Gaga - The Edge Of Glory (Live Performance)
There is a poignant story behind "The Edge of Glory" about Lady Gaga and her father coping with the impending death of her grandfather. Once again very personal life experiences have generated pop magic for Lady Gaga. Lyrically, there is little complication here, but the sound utilizes the power of classic rock. A big saxophone solo from Clarence Clemons of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band appears to drive that message home.
25) Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues (Fanmade Video)
The eponymous lead single from the record finds them honing their intricate baroque folk while at the same time trying out a more straightforward, lyrical approach.
26) The Black Keys - Tighten Up (Video Link)
The song is instantly catchy, with those mighty guitar riffs and the immediately recognizable vocals from Dan Auerbach. This single lives up to expectations while not being a complete carbon-copy of the songs on the last album. Indeed, The Black Keys may have evolved as the critics say, but they retain what you might call a signature sound.
27) Adele - Rumour Has It (Live Performance)
When playing off of a more adventurous arrangement, like Tedder's fusion of doo-wop and blues on "Rumor Has It," Adele sounds every bit the phenomenon the press has made her out to be.
28) Two Door Cinema Club - What You Know (Video Link)
I have no idea what ‘What You Know’ may be about, as the lyrics are a stream of open-ended observations on someone’s behaviour, but it’s alright because this is pop music. Besides, I simply love Alex Trimble's voice, especially when he performs this live.
29) Chris Medina - What Are Words (Video Link)
Fans of Chris Medina were understandably thrilled when "What Are Words" was released so quickly after his elimination from American Idol. With a major producer like Rodney Jerkins behind the board, this track may disappointedly not be a chart-topper, but the story behind it certainly brought some tears to everyone.
30) Keri Hilson - Pretty Girl Rock (Video Link)
"My name is Keri / I'm so very / Fly... oh my it's a little bit scary," Ms. Hilson brags on this chart assault. She gives this song all the attitude: "All eyes on me when I walk in / No question that this girl's a ten," she boasts over slinky piano and bouncy R&B beats. Before we accuse her of getting too cocky, however, we should point out that this Ne-Yo-penned track is actually about shaking off personal insecurities and believing in yourself.
The song is instantly catchy, with those mighty guitar riffs and the immediately recognizable vocals from Dan Auerbach. This single lives up to expectations while not being a complete carbon-copy of the songs on the last album. Indeed, The Black Keys may have evolved as the critics say, but they retain what you might call a signature sound.
27) Adele - Rumour Has It (Live Performance)
When playing off of a more adventurous arrangement, like Tedder's fusion of doo-wop and blues on "Rumor Has It," Adele sounds every bit the phenomenon the press has made her out to be.
28) Two Door Cinema Club - What You Know (Video Link)
I have no idea what ‘What You Know’ may be about, as the lyrics are a stream of open-ended observations on someone’s behaviour, but it’s alright because this is pop music. Besides, I simply love Alex Trimble's voice, especially when he performs this live.
29) Chris Medina - What Are Words (Video Link)
Fans of Chris Medina were understandably thrilled when "What Are Words" was released so quickly after his elimination from American Idol. With a major producer like Rodney Jerkins behind the board, this track may disappointedly not be a chart-topper, but the story behind it certainly brought some tears to everyone.
30) Keri Hilson - Pretty Girl Rock (Video Link)
"My name is Keri / I'm so very / Fly... oh my it's a little bit scary," Ms. Hilson brags on this chart assault. She gives this song all the attitude: "All eyes on me when I walk in / No question that this girl's a ten," she boasts over slinky piano and bouncy R&B beats. Before we accuse her of getting too cocky, however, we should point out that this Ne-Yo-penned track is actually about shaking off personal insecurities and believing in yourself.
Labels: Best Of Music 2011
Glastonbury 2011 - Performances
Janelle Monae - Come Alive (The War of the Roses)
Beyonce - 1 + 1
Coldplay - Every Teardrop is a Waterfall
Two Door Cinema Club - What You Know
Jessie J - Who's Laughing Now
Mumford & Sons - Roll Away Your Stone
Beyonce Playlist
Beyonce - Run The World (Girls)
Beyonce - If I Were A Boy & You Oughta Know
Beyonce - Destiny's Child Medley and Telephone
Beyonce - Best Thing I Never Had
Other Performances
Janelle Monae - Tightrope
Fleet Foxes - Sim Sala Bim
Warpaint - Undertow
Noah & The Whale - L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N
Radiohead - Lotus Flower
Ed Sheeran - The A Team
Friendly Fires - Hawaiian Air
Kaiser Chiefs - Kinda Girl You Are
Cee Lo Green (aka Gnarls Barkley) - Crazy
Beyonce - 1 + 1
Coldplay - Every Teardrop is a Waterfall
Two Door Cinema Club - What You Know
Jessie J - Who's Laughing Now
Mumford & Sons - Roll Away Your Stone
Beyonce Playlist
Beyonce - Run The World (Girls)
Beyonce - If I Were A Boy & You Oughta Know
Beyonce - Destiny's Child Medley and Telephone
Beyonce - Best Thing I Never Had
Other Performances
Janelle Monae - Tightrope
Fleet Foxes - Sim Sala Bim
Warpaint - Undertow
Noah & The Whale - L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N
Radiohead - Lotus Flower
Ed Sheeran - The A Team
Friendly Fires - Hawaiian Air
Kaiser Chiefs - Kinda Girl You Are
Cee Lo Green (aka Gnarls Barkley) - Crazy
Labels: Concerts, Soundmunches
Platinum Hit: The L Word
Contestants have to write the chorus of a love song for the hook challenge with guest judge Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic. Of course, this is perfect for lovebirds Johnny and Jes because they are crazy for one another.
First place winner Sonyae gets to pick her team, and the other winners. Sonyae picks Brian and Scotty (her dream team), much to Nick's chagrin. Sonyae gives Nick the two people he hates most: Johnny and Jackie.
First place winner Sonyae gets to pick her team, and the other winners. Sonyae picks Brian and Scotty (her dream team), much to Nick's chagrin. Sonyae gives Nick the two people he hates most: Johnny and Jackie.
Performances:
- Sonyae, Scotty, Brian - Love Me To Life
- Johnny, Nick, Jackie - Stuck In My Head
- Melissa, Jes - It's You
Winner: Sonyae (received immunity), Scotty, and Brian
Performances + Deliberation (damn exciting, must watch. Kara got bitched off.)
When Jewel asked her what lyrics she wrote, she just kept avoiding the question and said she didn’t like Jess’s lyrics. When Kara asked why she didn’t say something to Jess, she snapped back at Kara telling her not to give her an attitude. What in the world?
Losing team: Jes and Melissa
Eliminated: Melissa (aww, what a sore exit)
Labels: Platinum Hit
27 June 2011
America's Got Talent 2011 - Auditions #4
Anna Graceman - 11-year-old singer (Alicia Keys 'If I Ain't Got You')
Bianca Ryan commented on the video:
"I remember when I sang on the First Season of America's Got Talent. She really reminds me of myself. I am so proud of Anna. I just want to say this; Being a part of America's Got Talent as an 11 year old singer (As I was) is very scary & very hard to be able to come across as something completely different even though there are so many singers in the world. & she holds herself with such sweetness, & she is gracefully humbled. I hope for the absolute best for this girl."
Hershae Chocolatae - Impersonator
She just impersonated Tina Turner and Macy Gray and she's not even a she.
Attack Dance Crew - 19 to 25-year-old dancers
Steven Retchless - Male Pole Dancer
Riley Schillaci - Female Sword Swallower
Snap Boogie - Dancer
Bianca Ryan commented on the video:
"I remember when I sang on the First Season of America's Got Talent. She really reminds me of myself. I am so proud of Anna. I just want to say this; Being a part of America's Got Talent as an 11 year old singer (As I was) is very scary & very hard to be able to come across as something completely different even though there are so many singers in the world. & she holds herself with such sweetness, & she is gracefully humbled. I hope for the absolute best for this girl."
Hershae Chocolatae - Impersonator
She just impersonated Tina Turner and Macy Gray and she's not even a she.
Attack Dance Crew - 19 to 25-year-old dancers
Steven Retchless - Male Pole Dancer
Riley Schillaci - Female Sword Swallower
Snap Boogie - Dancer
Labels: America's Got Talent
24 June 2011
2011: Soundmunches #28
Enrique Iglesias - Dirty Dancer (feat. Usher and Lil Wayne)
Jennifer Hudson - No One Gonna Love You
Eminem - Space Bound
Darren Hayes - Talk Talk Talk
Jay Sean - Where Do We Go
Estelle (feat. Rick Ross) - Break My Heart
Bjork - Crystalline
Vato Gonzalez - Badman Riddim (feat. Foreign Beggars)
Jennifer Hudson - No One Gonna Love You
Eminem - Space Bound
Darren Hayes - Talk Talk Talk
Jay Sean - Where Do We Go
Estelle (feat. Rick Ross) - Break My Heart
Bjork - Crystalline
Vato Gonzalez - Badman Riddim (feat. Foreign Beggars)
Labels: Soundmunches
23 June 2011
So You Think You Can Dance (US Season 8) - Top 20 Perform (Part II)
Sasha and Alexander - Hiphop
Choreographed by Nappytabs (Skylar Grey - Coming Home (and P Diddy)
Man, this performance made me like the song so much more! Such a solid showing from both performers! They managed to send across the message so well too. A+
Caitlynn and Mitchell - Contemporary
Choreographed by Stacey Tookey (Adele - Turning Tables)
Don't know why, but this brought a tear to my eye. It encapsulated the meaning of the song so well. Technically and dramatically great. A
Melanie and Marko - JazzChoreographed by
Choreographed by Mandy Moore (DKS - Sing with a Swing)
Ooh I love this song! This couple is growing on me. Melanie is just so polished and professional, and Marko is almost Asian (ok fine he's from Guam), so I really like how he's representing us so well haha. They just feed on each other's energy so well. A
Jordan and Tadd - Viennese Waltz
Choreographed by Jean-Marc Genereux (David Cook - Fade Into Me)
They picked something from Cook's latest album! This was brilliant in so many ways, from the chemistry they shared to the graceful dancing... absolutely beautiful. It's remarkable how a b-boy like Tadd can do so well on such a genre! A
Miranda and Robert - Hiphop
Choreographed by Nappytabs (Busta Rhymes - Break Ya Neck)
Miranda actually fared better than her partner, who specializes in hiphop. She was so clean and she got the swagger jagger. A-
Ashley and Chris - Jazz
Choreographed by Spencer Liff (Rachel Sweet - Please, Mr. Jailer)
This was so sizzling, besides the pull-ups which was cool enough. Chris surprisingly executed it so well. A-
Ryan and Ricky (or Roderick) - Jazz
Choreographed by Stacey Tookey (Robert Palmer - Addicted To Love)
It was no doubt sexy and fierce, but I believe they're capable of more and were not challenged enough. They role-played their roles well though! B+
Iveta and Nick - Bollywood
Choreographed by Nakul Dev Mahajan (Luck By Chance - Baawre)
Nick was hilarious to watch! This was sheer fun, and they did a good job considering one was a tapper and the other, a professional ballroom dancer. B
Clarice & Jess - Contemporary
Choreographed by Stacey Tookey (Jump Little Children - Cathedrals)
They danced beautifully individually, but they didn't gel as one as Nigel commented. Somehow, Jess just channels Broadway in whatever genre of dance he performs. B
Missy and Wadi - Cha-Cha
Choreographed by Jean-Marc Genereux (Ke$ha - Cannibal)
Interesting song to dance cha-cha to. I thought they executed the moves pretty staticly. Wadi was obviously not so convincing, but Missy at least was entertaining and holding her weight. B-
Bottom 3 Solos - Girls (Missy, Iveta & Ryan) & Guys (Wadi, Nick, Ricky)
Eliminated: Nick (wtf stunned), Iveta, Missy, Wadi
Ryan and Ricky was in the bottom twice, so I don't get why BOTH of them were saved.
Choreographed by Nappytabs (Skylar Grey - Coming Home (and P Diddy)
Man, this performance made me like the song so much more! Such a solid showing from both performers! They managed to send across the message so well too. A+
Caitlynn and Mitchell - Contemporary
Choreographed by Stacey Tookey (Adele - Turning Tables)
Don't know why, but this brought a tear to my eye. It encapsulated the meaning of the song so well. Technically and dramatically great. A
Melanie and Marko - JazzChoreographed by
Choreographed by Mandy Moore (DKS - Sing with a Swing)
Ooh I love this song! This couple is growing on me. Melanie is just so polished and professional, and Marko is almost Asian (ok fine he's from Guam), so I really like how he's representing us so well haha. They just feed on each other's energy so well. A
Jordan and Tadd - Viennese Waltz
Choreographed by Jean-Marc Genereux (David Cook - Fade Into Me)
They picked something from Cook's latest album! This was brilliant in so many ways, from the chemistry they shared to the graceful dancing... absolutely beautiful. It's remarkable how a b-boy like Tadd can do so well on such a genre! A
Miranda and Robert - Hiphop
Choreographed by Nappytabs (Busta Rhymes - Break Ya Neck)
Miranda actually fared better than her partner, who specializes in hiphop. She was so clean and she got the swagger jagger. A-
Ashley and Chris - Jazz
Choreographed by Spencer Liff (Rachel Sweet - Please, Mr. Jailer)
This was so sizzling, besides the pull-ups which was cool enough. Chris surprisingly executed it so well. A-
Ryan and Ricky (or Roderick) - Jazz
Choreographed by Stacey Tookey (Robert Palmer - Addicted To Love)
It was no doubt sexy and fierce, but I believe they're capable of more and were not challenged enough. They role-played their roles well though! B+
Iveta and Nick - Bollywood
Choreographed by Nakul Dev Mahajan (Luck By Chance - Baawre)
Nick was hilarious to watch! This was sheer fun, and they did a good job considering one was a tapper and the other, a professional ballroom dancer. B
Clarice & Jess - Contemporary
Choreographed by Stacey Tookey (Jump Little Children - Cathedrals)
They danced beautifully individually, but they didn't gel as one as Nigel commented. Somehow, Jess just channels Broadway in whatever genre of dance he performs. B
Missy and Wadi - Cha-Cha
Choreographed by Jean-Marc Genereux (Ke$ha - Cannibal)
Interesting song to dance cha-cha to. I thought they executed the moves pretty staticly. Wadi was obviously not so convincing, but Missy at least was entertaining and holding her weight. B-
Bottom 3 Solos - Girls (Missy, Iveta & Ryan) & Guys (Wadi, Nick, Ricky)
Eliminated: Nick (wtf stunned), Iveta, Missy, Wadi
Ryan and Ricky was in the bottom twice, so I don't get why BOTH of them were saved.
Labels: SYTYCD
22 June 2011
The Voice - Semi-Finals
Verdict
Cee Lo Green's Team
America's Vote: Vicci Martinez
Judge's Save: Nakia
Adam Levine's Team
America's Vote: Javier Colon
Judge's Save: Casey Weston
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Cee Lo Green's Team
America's Vote: Vicci Martinez
Judge's Save: Nakia
Adam Levine's Team
America's Vote: Javier Colon
Judge's Save: Casey Weston
---
SEMI-FINALS
Top 8 Performances
Top 8 Performances
Vicci Martinez [Team Cee Lo Green] - Dog Days Are Over (Florence and the Machine)
How cool was it, with the hairdo, and the drums, goodness! She's simply amazing la. So much fun on stage, love her. 9.0/10
How cool was it, with the hairdo, and the drums, goodness! She's simply amazing la. So much fun on stage, love her. 9.0/10
Javier Colon [Team Adam Levine] - Fix You (Coldplay)
Amazed by how his voice can transit from delicacy to strength so seamlessly. Though not as magical as 'Angel' last week, he certainly is a frontrunner in this competition. A little more playing around with falsettoes would have made this perfect. 9.0/10
Amazed by how his voice can transit from delicacy to strength so seamlessly. Though not as magical as 'Angel' last week, he certainly is a frontrunner in this competition. A little more playing around with falsettoes would have made this perfect. 9.0/10
Beverly McClellan [Team Christina] - The Thrill Is Gone
This woman is incredible. It felt as though she has been doing this for years. Such a veteran. Awesome stage presence. Would've loved it more had I known the song. 8.5/10
Dia Frampton [Team Blake Shelton] - Losing My Religion (R.E.M)
She's really creating a niche for herself, giving a new twist to all her performances. It's great to watch her reinvent songs, keeping things original, and yet make it so pleasurable to th ears. 8.0/10
She's really creating a niche for herself, giving a new twist to all her performances. It's great to watch her reinvent songs, keeping things original, and yet make it so pleasurable to th ears. 8.0/10
Xenia [Team Blake Shelton] - The Man Who Can't Be Moved (The Script)
There's something about her. As much as she has an overly-laidback voice, her innocence and adorableness sweetens everything, and it makes the audience endear themselves to her. Whether she can last any longer in the competition would depend on what the audience is looking for. 7.5/10
There's something about her. As much as she has an overly-laidback voice, her innocence and adorableness sweetens everything, and it makes the audience endear themselves to her. Whether she can last any longer in the competition would depend on what the audience is looking for. 7.5/10
Casey Weston [Team Adam Levine] - I Will Always Love You (Whitney Houston)
A huge risk to take singing this song - and I felt it didn't really pay off. She really should just pull off contemporary stuff like she did last week on KT Tunstall. She doesn't have the explosiveness of Whitney - perhaps Colbie Caillat or Sara Bareilles might've worked to her advantage. 7.5/10
Frenchie Davis [Team Christina] - Like A Prayer (Madonna)
Frenchie's meant to blast it loud for everyone. It's great how Christina chose a song for Frenchie, which was able to showcase her voice control and her showmanship so well. 7.5/10
Nakia [Team Cee Lo Green] - Whataya Want From Me (Adam Lambert)
Wrong song choice for Nakia. I dug the introduction, where he laid it down simple between himself and the piano. Perhaps, it's just his image that is channelling the wrong vibes. He's really trying to leave an impression though, which I appreciate. 7.0/10
Wrong song choice for Nakia. I dug the introduction, where he laid it down simple between himself and the piano. Perhaps, it's just his image that is channelling the wrong vibes. He's really trying to leave an impression though, which I appreciate. 7.0/10
Labels: The Voice
21 June 2011
Platinum Hit - Rap About A Superpower
Jewel announced that they would be writing about superpowers they wish they had. The big twist was that they had to rap. The guest judge was Rodney Jerkins.
3rd place hook winner: Jackie (wtf?), picks Brian and Amber
2nd place hook winner: Sonyae, picks Nick and Melissa
1st place hook winner: Johnny, picks Scotty and Jes
Well, Rodney's comments were justified.
Performances
Walk Through Walls - Johnny, Scotty, Jes
The lyrics in the rap were pretty cool, and I really liked Scotty's hook. Didn't enjoy the operatic screams from Jes though.
Miss Make The Boys Cry - Sonyae, Nick, Melissa [OMG LOVE THIS]
Loved the rap and the meaning Sonyae was conveying through it. As much as Nick has a dope voice, the melody wasn't particularly memorable.
Super Duper Rapper - Amber, Jackie, Brian
It was fun, but there was not really a message that was as impactful as the other two.
Winning Team: Johnny, Scotty, Jes
Losing Team: Amber, Jackie, Brian
Deliberation & Results
Labels: Platinum Hit
20 June 2011
2011 TOP 60 MID-YEAR COUNTDOWN [#31 - #45]
31) Maroon 5 - Never Gonna Leave This Bed (Video Link)
'Never Gonna Leave This Bed' was one of the better moments from their latest album, proving that they still can provide catchy hooks and real sentiment, whilst keeping that jaunty pop style accustomed to their sound.
32) Mumford & Sons - Little Lion Man (Video Link)
This pacy, energetic song is a cornucopia of magnificent sounds that begin as ambiguous motifs, gradually rising in intensity (and banjo frenzy) until listeners are stuck between hoedown and all out emotional catharsis.
33) Jessie J - Do It Like A Dude (Video Link)
It was this song that Jessie J utilized as an entrance into the capricious, peacock-packed party of pop. "I can do it like a dude, grab my crotch, wear my hat down low like you," announces this hype-hogging songbird on her debut single, while also cussing like a delinquent, rapping like someone whose actual surname is Cornish has no business doing, and offering indications that she can sing a bit too (subsequent singles prove this point).
34) Ke$ha - Blow (Video Link)
Dance. That's the command Ke$ha makes after giggling boozily on the intro to her latest single, which, now six releases into her Animal/Cannibal campaign and not a ballad in sight, seems more than fitting. More so, it sums up everything Ke$ha - for all her scrubbiness, Auto-Tuning and boozy antics - is all about.
Even better is that she continues to make no apologies for it. "We get in for free, no VIP sleaze," she admits in her usual sing-speak fashion over a sizzling bassline. "This place about to blow!" she announces on the hooky, robotic and all-round stonkingly huge chorus.
35) Oh Land - Sun Of A Gun (Video Link)
Iceland has Björk, Sweden has Robyn, and now Denmark has Nanna Fabricuis - best known by her much trendier stage name Oh Land. The latest synth-pop singer to emerge from Northern Europe, she quickly caught the eyes of US critics for her quirky approach to music - a style which she describes as "classical meets electronic".
'Never Gonna Leave This Bed' was one of the better moments from their latest album, proving that they still can provide catchy hooks and real sentiment, whilst keeping that jaunty pop style accustomed to their sound.
32) Mumford & Sons - Little Lion Man (Video Link)
This pacy, energetic song is a cornucopia of magnificent sounds that begin as ambiguous motifs, gradually rising in intensity (and banjo frenzy) until listeners are stuck between hoedown and all out emotional catharsis.
33) Jessie J - Do It Like A Dude (Video Link)
It was this song that Jessie J utilized as an entrance into the capricious, peacock-packed party of pop. "I can do it like a dude, grab my crotch, wear my hat down low like you," announces this hype-hogging songbird on her debut single, while also cussing like a delinquent, rapping like someone whose actual surname is Cornish has no business doing, and offering indications that she can sing a bit too (subsequent singles prove this point).
34) Ke$ha - Blow (Video Link)
Dance. That's the command Ke$ha makes after giggling boozily on the intro to her latest single, which, now six releases into her Animal/Cannibal campaign and not a ballad in sight, seems more than fitting. More so, it sums up everything Ke$ha - for all her scrubbiness, Auto-Tuning and boozy antics - is all about.
Even better is that she continues to make no apologies for it. "We get in for free, no VIP sleaze," she admits in her usual sing-speak fashion over a sizzling bassline. "This place about to blow!" she announces on the hooky, robotic and all-round stonkingly huge chorus.
35) Oh Land - Sun Of A Gun (Video Link)
Iceland has Björk, Sweden has Robyn, and now Denmark has Nanna Fabricuis - best known by her much trendier stage name Oh Land. The latest synth-pop singer to emerge from Northern Europe, she quickly caught the eyes of US critics for her quirky approach to music - a style which she describes as "classical meets electronic".
36) Black Eyed Peas - Just Can't Get Enough (Video Link)
Fergie-Fergs has ditched the swagga and opts for a more emotional approach to her vocal on the new Peas track 'Just Can't Get Enough' - a noticeably more restrained and sample-less effort than their previous hit - yet fully in keeping with will.i.am's Mac-smashing digitised mixing. The track comprises electronic synths and soft strings teamed with heavy beats and, of course, the obligatory vocoded "mega switch up".
37) Katy B - Katy On A Mission (Video Link)
Over buzzing synths, a lovely bassline and beats that manage to be chunky and nimble at the same time, Katy coolly relates a tale of getting lost in the music, icing an already scrumptious cake with loads of ear-snagging "ooh-ooh-oooh-ooh-wooh" hooks.
38) Neon Trees - Your Surrender (Video Link)
“Your Surrender” definitely has a prom-vibe to it, with a great drum/bass up-tempo pop-rock alternative sound. This track is one of Neon Trees’ best. It captures teen romance at its most passionate. The lyrics are enchanting, and make a listener remember the moments of their own prom, and teen romances. Tyler Glenn’s vocal’s as well as the Chris Allen’s guitars, Branden Campbell’s bass, and Elaine Bradley’s drum and background vocals, serve as a fresh musical force, with a bit of a U2-like quality.
Fergie-Fergs has ditched the swagga and opts for a more emotional approach to her vocal on the new Peas track 'Just Can't Get Enough' - a noticeably more restrained and sample-less effort than their previous hit - yet fully in keeping with will.i.am's Mac-smashing digitised mixing. The track comprises electronic synths and soft strings teamed with heavy beats and, of course, the obligatory vocoded "mega switch up".
37) Katy B - Katy On A Mission (Video Link)
Over buzzing synths, a lovely bassline and beats that manage to be chunky and nimble at the same time, Katy coolly relates a tale of getting lost in the music, icing an already scrumptious cake with loads of ear-snagging "ooh-ooh-oooh-ooh-wooh" hooks.
38) Neon Trees - Your Surrender (Video Link)
“Your Surrender” definitely has a prom-vibe to it, with a great drum/bass up-tempo pop-rock alternative sound. This track is one of Neon Trees’ best. It captures teen romance at its most passionate. The lyrics are enchanting, and make a listener remember the moments of their own prom, and teen romances. Tyler Glenn’s vocal’s as well as the Chris Allen’s guitars, Branden Campbell’s bass, and Elaine Bradley’s drum and background vocals, serve as a fresh musical force, with a bit of a U2-like quality.
39) Avril Lavigne - Smile (Video Link)
Lavigne wrote the song with its producers, pop wizards Max Martin and Shellback. ‘Smile’ pays tribute to the special someone who was able to win her heart and put a grin on her face.
This track sure brings back memories when she hit the scene as a spunky teen with songs like ‘Complicated’ and ‘Sk8er Boi.'
40) Adele - Set Fire To The Rain (Live Performance)
Adele sings about a lover who came to her rescue after a heartbreak, and who subsequently changed his feelings about her. Another outstanding track from her album, as she goes back and forth singing how the love was wonderful with him but she's conflicted with the other side of him, not knowing who he truly was.
41) Katy Perry - E.T (Video Link)
"You're so supersonic / Wanna feel your powers / Stun me your lasers," she insists here - and her lusty demands don't end there. "Infect me with your love and fill me with your poison," she continues while behind Dr Luke and Max Martin's supply of glitchy beats and space age synths. Kanye's contribution is, of course, entirely needless, but this is still a quirky and assured slice of state-of-the-art pop.
42) Kaiser Chiefs - Little Shocks (Video Link)
After a three-year break, the Britpop band return with the do-it-yourself LP The Future Is Medieval. While the physical ten track version isn't out until June 27, this trailer proves that their forward thinking hasn't affected their classic post-punk sound.
43) The Feeling - Set My World On Fire (Video Link)
Well, previously they wanted you to fill their little world right up, but now they want you to set it on fire. The Feeling is now back with a jangly, summery bit of guitar pop. It's the sort of stuff that will get thousands smiling and shuffling their feet, while just as many fling it to the top of the pile marked "indie landfill". This is catchy enough in its twangy way, and good on them for sticking to what they clearly enjoy despite the prevailing pop headwinds.
44) Example - Kickstarts (Video Link)
Elliot 'Example' Gleaves, along with producer Sub Focus, has brought a "hardcore club edge to a lyrically poppy single" here - and he's not wrong, with lines like "You're my girl in a golden crown / Princess I don't wanna let you down" cloaked in loads of clubby beats and a squiggly synth riff.
45) Sara Bareilles - Uncharted (Video Link)
"Uncharted" is a the second single from Sara Bareille's 2nd album Kaleidoscope Heart. She credits the song for sparking her writing and getting her over her writer’s block and fear of “the sophomore slump”. For the video, Sara had help from a few of her friends (Adam Levine, Ryan Tedder, Ingrid Michaelson, Josh Groban, Ben Folds, Pharrell etc.) who lip-sync the lyrics.
"You're so supersonic / Wanna feel your powers / Stun me your lasers," she insists here - and her lusty demands don't end there. "Infect me with your love and fill me with your poison," she continues while behind Dr Luke and Max Martin's supply of glitchy beats and space age synths. Kanye's contribution is, of course, entirely needless, but this is still a quirky and assured slice of state-of-the-art pop.
42) Kaiser Chiefs - Little Shocks (Video Link)
After a three-year break, the Britpop band return with the do-it-yourself LP The Future Is Medieval. While the physical ten track version isn't out until June 27, this trailer proves that their forward thinking hasn't affected their classic post-punk sound.
43) The Feeling - Set My World On Fire (Video Link)
Well, previously they wanted you to fill their little world right up, but now they want you to set it on fire. The Feeling is now back with a jangly, summery bit of guitar pop. It's the sort of stuff that will get thousands smiling and shuffling their feet, while just as many fling it to the top of the pile marked "indie landfill". This is catchy enough in its twangy way, and good on them for sticking to what they clearly enjoy despite the prevailing pop headwinds.
44) Example - Kickstarts (Video Link)
Elliot 'Example' Gleaves, along with producer Sub Focus, has brought a "hardcore club edge to a lyrically poppy single" here - and he's not wrong, with lines like "You're my girl in a golden crown / Princess I don't wanna let you down" cloaked in loads of clubby beats and a squiggly synth riff.
45) Sara Bareilles - Uncharted (Video Link)
"Uncharted" is a the second single from Sara Bareille's 2nd album Kaleidoscope Heart. She credits the song for sparking her writing and getting her over her writer’s block and fear of “the sophomore slump”. For the video, Sara had help from a few of her friends (Adam Levine, Ryan Tedder, Ingrid Michaelson, Josh Groban, Ben Folds, Pharrell etc.) who lip-sync the lyrics.
Labels: Best Of Music 2011
2011: Soundmunches #27
Lady Gaga - The Edge Of Glory
Rye Rye - Never Will Be Mine (feat. Robyn)
Ed Sheeran - The A Team
Chris Brown - Next 2 U (with Justin Bieber)
Hugh Jackman VS Neil Patrick Harris at The Tony Awards - so much fun!
Britney Spears - I Wanna Go (Video Teaser)
Cher Lloyd - Swagger Jagger
Drake - Marvin's Room
Bad Meets Evil - Lighters (feat. Bruno Mars)
The Kooks - The Saboteur
Kelly Rowland - Lay It On Me
Skylar Grey - Invisible
Rye Rye - Never Will Be Mine (feat. Robyn)
Ed Sheeran - The A Team
Chris Brown - Next 2 U (with Justin Bieber)
Hugh Jackman VS Neil Patrick Harris at The Tony Awards - so much fun!
Britney Spears - I Wanna Go (Video Teaser)
Cher Lloyd - Swagger Jagger
Drake - Marvin's Room
Bad Meets Evil - Lighters (feat. Bruno Mars)
The Kooks - The Saboteur
Kelly Rowland - Lay It On Me
Skylar Grey - Invisible
Labels: Soundmunches
SYTYCD UK (Season 2) - Top 8 To the Finals
Group Performances:Top 4 Guys - Another One Bites The Dust by Queen
Top 8 Group Dance - Rolling In The Deep
Top 3 Guys - Paso Doble
Top 3 Girls - The Rose by Bette Midler
Top 6 - Proud Mary (Glee Version)
Duet Performances:Bethany Rose & Lee B - Judas by Lady Gaga
Matt & Katie - Heads will Roll by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Matt & Katie - Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler
Matt & Kirsty - Heaven by DJ Sammy
Matt & Luke - Broadway (Finals)
Winner of SYTYCD UK: Matt FlintRunner-up: Luke Jackson
Third place: Katie Love
Fourth place: Kirsty Swain
Labels: SYTYCD
17 June 2011
America's Got Talent 2011 - Auditions #3
The Art of Teknique
HOLY SMOKES. If you thought that 6-year-old dancer I posted last week was insane, YOU GOT TO WATCH THIS.
The BGP - Bennie and the Jets
Geechy Guy
LOL. Some of them are hilarious. The Evolution one is super epic.
"I was gonna wear my camouflage shirt but I couldn't find it."
Brian Jackson
EPIC.
HOLY SMOKES. If you thought that 6-year-old dancer I posted last week was insane, YOU GOT TO WATCH THIS.
The BGP - Bennie and the Jets
Geechy Guy
LOL. Some of them are hilarious. The Evolution one is super epic.
"I was gonna wear my camouflage shirt but I couldn't find it."
Brian Jackson
EPIC.
Labels: America's Got Talent
So You Think You Can Dance (US Season 8) - Top 20 Perform
PERFORMANCE NIGHT
#1 Jordan and Tadd - African Jazz
'Riding The Waves' by Afro Celt Sound System, choreographed by Sean Cheesman
A pretty explosive performance given how performances of such genres could've been really boring. Judges' favourites already. 7.5
#2 Sasha and Alexander - Contemporary
'Stupid (Mark Bell Mix)' by Sarah McLachlan, choreographed by Travis Wall
This was so good, sheesh. As much as Sasha's really dense in interviews, she delivers in the dances. Loved the costumes, and the whole fluidity of the performance. 8.0
#3 Clarice and Jess - Broadway
'Me and My Baby' by Liza Minnelli, Choreographed by Tyce Diorio
Jess gets his specialty, which is always a good thing (that pirouette where he went down and up.. like wth?). The steps were executed very precisely, it was slick and fun. Very good. 8.5
#4 Ryan and Ricky - Hiphop
'Ain't No Sunshine' by Lighthouse Family, Choreographed by Christopher Scott
Ryan's facial emotions were so not telling the story, though I must say she did a good job at hiphop. What's with the judges insisting that the girls are much better? 7.5
#5 Miranda and Robert
Youtube refuses to let me watch it, so I shan't bother. Besides, they're in the bottom 3, so I don't fancy anything amazing.
#6 Missy and Wadi - Jazz
Judas (R3HAB Remix) by Lady Gagas, Choreographed by Sean Cheesman
Woah, recent uh the song choice. The choreo was fantastic, and I was very surprised by them both. Very sexy. 8.0
#7 Melanie and Marko - Contemporary
'Turn To Stone' by Ingrid Michaelson, Choreographed by Travis Wall
Aww. So romantic, so sweet and magical. Loved it, best performance of the night. 9.0/10
#8 Ashley and Chris - Hiphop
'Forget You' by Cee Lo Green, Choreographed by Christopher Scott
This really didn't involve a lot of dancing, but they injected a lot of fun and personality into the dance. And that's what made it enjoyable to watch. 8.0
#9 Iveta and Nick - Quickstep
'Ballroom' by Sweet
Female ballroom champion takes the stage with my favourite contestant this season, Nick. She was definitely trying not to outdance him. This was brilliant, a dance that's so under-appreciated yet so difficult. 8.5
#10 Caitlynn and Mitchell - Jazz
'In For The Kill' by La Roux, Choreographed by Sonya Tayeh
Robert stands in because Mitchell injures himself. OMG Robert, totally loved his performances last season.
I love Sonya - gosh all her choreos are so amazing. A pity Mitchell couldn't dance. 8.0
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RESULTS NIGHT
Group Performance - XR2 by M.I.AGuest Performance: Keri Hilson - Lose Control
Bottom 3 Solos: (Guys) Mitchell (due to injury), Tadd, Jess, Robert (Girls) Jordan, Clarice, Miranda
ELIMINATED: NON-ELIMINATION, 4 will go home next week.
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MISCELLANEOUS
Interviews:Alexander and Jordan, Marko and Iveta , Wadi and Sasha, Caitlynn and Tadd, Miranda and Ricky, Melanie and Mitchell, Missy and Chris, Clarice and Jess, Ashley and Nick, Robert and Ryan
Labels: SYTYCD
16 June 2011
2011 TOP 60 MID-YEAR COUNTDOWN [#46 - #60]
46) Adele - Turning Tables (Live Performance)
Adele has recruited the help of Arctic Monkeys producer Jim Abbiss on this enchanting yet delicate piano ballad co-written with Tedder. The track sets Adele in a class of her own, now that the critics no longer draw lazy comparisons to her early British contemporaries (Amy Winehouse, Duffy, etc). “Turning Tables” is softer and more melancholic than the album‘s openers. It is reminiscent of tracks from her debut album, but more orchestral, and it truly shows off Adele’s voice as we know it best.
47) Martin Solveig & Dragonette - Hello (Video Link)
Filled with the feel good vocals of lead singer Martina Sobara, the melody intertwines effortlessly with her voice creating a really bouncy track, with a polished sound that is true to its house origins. One song that instantly comes to mind upon hearing Hello is the brilliant Paper Planes by MIA (The song from Slumdog Millionaire), which uses a similar sort of riff throughout.
Adele has recruited the help of Arctic Monkeys producer Jim Abbiss on this enchanting yet delicate piano ballad co-written with Tedder. The track sets Adele in a class of her own, now that the critics no longer draw lazy comparisons to her early British contemporaries (Amy Winehouse, Duffy, etc). “Turning Tables” is softer and more melancholic than the album‘s openers. It is reminiscent of tracks from her debut album, but more orchestral, and it truly shows off Adele’s voice as we know it best.
47) Martin Solveig & Dragonette - Hello (Video Link)
Filled with the feel good vocals of lead singer Martina Sobara, the melody intertwines effortlessly with her voice creating a really bouncy track, with a polished sound that is true to its house origins. One song that instantly comes to mind upon hearing Hello is the brilliant Paper Planes by MIA (The song from Slumdog Millionaire), which uses a similar sort of riff throughout.
This song certainly evokes in the listener a happy-go-lucky vibe for which it was designed and is and without doubt has been a huge success amongst clubbers.
48) Rihanna - Man Down (Video Link)
Rihanna proves herself as a vocalist who can, when she wants to, be full of personality and emotion. A dark twist on the Caribbean rhythms of her first two albums, Rihanna rides the slow-motion beat and tells the story of how she became a muhdereh.
Rihanna proves herself as a vocalist who can, when she wants to, be full of personality and emotion. A dark twist on the Caribbean rhythms of her first two albums, Rihanna rides the slow-motion beat and tells the story of how she became a muhdereh.
As the song escalates, Rihanna’s trademark accent gets heavier and heavier until she explodes into a cavalcade of scattered thoughts and “rum pa pa pum”-ing, finally begging “tell the judge please give me minimal”. From ‘Pon De Replay’ to this has been a long, fascinating journey for Rihanna, as a popstar, as a singer, as an artist.
49) Teddybears - Cardiac Arrest (featuring Robyn) (Audio Link)
When Robyn isn’t serving up her own noteworthy material, she’s lending her recognizable pipes to tracks by other quirky, pop-minded artists.
“Reagan rolled up her eyes and hissed / Mommy called on the exorcist / so come on and shake your bone maker,” Robyn sings on squiggly electro-pop tune “Cardiac Arrest.”
50) Christina Aguilera - Bound To You (Video Link)
The film’s ballad, “Bound To You”, co-written by Sia Furler, Samuel Dixon and the film’s ingenue-turned-flashdancer, Christina Aguilera, is a gorgeous, controlled tune. The instrumentation reminds us of Aguilera’s “You Lost Me” and “Lift Me Up”, both on Bionic. We’d say this song should have joined them on Bionic, but there were already enough ballads on the overstuffed LP. Powerful, emotional and gripping, “Bound To You” is Christina at her best.
When Robyn isn’t serving up her own noteworthy material, she’s lending her recognizable pipes to tracks by other quirky, pop-minded artists.
“Reagan rolled up her eyes and hissed / Mommy called on the exorcist / so come on and shake your bone maker,” Robyn sings on squiggly electro-pop tune “Cardiac Arrest.”
50) Christina Aguilera - Bound To You (Video Link)
The film’s ballad, “Bound To You”, co-written by Sia Furler, Samuel Dixon and the film’s ingenue-turned-flashdancer, Christina Aguilera, is a gorgeous, controlled tune. The instrumentation reminds us of Aguilera’s “You Lost Me” and “Lift Me Up”, both on Bionic. We’d say this song should have joined them on Bionic, but there were already enough ballads on the overstuffed LP. Powerful, emotional and gripping, “Bound To You” is Christina at her best.
This song encourages people to take risks and be unashamed of who they are. The profits made from this track was donated to gay charity The Trevor Project. On producer Billboard, who remixed the song for its release, he insisted: "The vocals are still there, but there's a really sick beat now. I think it's really rad."
52) Justice - Civilization (Video Link)
French electro masterminds Justice will finally return with “Civilization, the first single to their massively anticipated still-untitled new album, presumably out sometime this year. After being featured in an Adidas campaign, it has made its waves on cinema screens and been released on iTunes.
53) Avril Lavigne - What The Hell (Video Link)
Avril Lavigne may have waved ta-ta to teenagerdom some seven years ago now, she may have done the whole hitchin' 'n' ditchin' thing since then, but on this trailer single she's still coming off snottier than a tissue tossed in the bin down the flu clinic.
'What The Hell' is a sweet 'n' sour wad of bubblegum pop-punk. "So what if I go out on a million dates?" she pouts, "You never call or listen to me anyway." Of course, it's nothing she hasn't given us before, and it's not quite as undeniable as 'Girlfriend', but the Max Martin/Shellback chorus hit is definitely the track's best offering.
54) Noah & The Whale - L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N (Video Link)
Whilst vocalist Charlie Fink retains his familiar drawl, the mood is lighter because of the track’s soft rock production. In addition, the lyrics are less self-reflective than in earlier songs. Its uptempo, melodic storytelling and radio-friendly rock takes The Killers’ Sam’s Town as its template.
Avril Lavigne may have waved ta-ta to teenagerdom some seven years ago now, she may have done the whole hitchin' 'n' ditchin' thing since then, but on this trailer single she's still coming off snottier than a tissue tossed in the bin down the flu clinic.
'What The Hell' is a sweet 'n' sour wad of bubblegum pop-punk. "So what if I go out on a million dates?" she pouts, "You never call or listen to me anyway." Of course, it's nothing she hasn't given us before, and it's not quite as undeniable as 'Girlfriend', but the Max Martin/Shellback chorus hit is definitely the track's best offering.
54) Noah & The Whale - L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N (Video Link)
Whilst vocalist Charlie Fink retains his familiar drawl, the mood is lighter because of the track’s soft rock production. In addition, the lyrics are less self-reflective than in earlier songs. Its uptempo, melodic storytelling and radio-friendly rock takes The Killers’ Sam’s Town as its template.
The title is the characters’ reassurance to themselves, and the consolation for their disappointment is their self-acclaimed fortitude: “You’ve got heart and you go in your own way”.
55) Frankmusik - Do It In The AM (feat. Far East Movement) (Video Link)
This is an odd pairing. It all screams: "we want a hit so we're gonna tack an annoying bit of rap on top of this song." Surprisingly, it actually works - the song is excellent. It's a simple pop/club track with excellent vocals and a very catchy, repetitive hook. I'm actually really excited for Frankmusik's sophomore album now, despite being slightly underwhelmed by his first.
This is an odd pairing. It all screams: "we want a hit so we're gonna tack an annoying bit of rap on top of this song." Surprisingly, it actually works - the song is excellent. It's a simple pop/club track with excellent vocals and a very catchy, repetitive hook. I'm actually really excited for Frankmusik's sophomore album now, despite being slightly underwhelmed by his first.
56) Radiohead - Lotus Flower (Video Link)
Radiohead’s 2011 single Lotus Flower is weird and stimulating, both musically and intellectually. The lotus flower is used symbolically in traditional mystical teaching. In the Bhagavad-Gita, that astonishing and thrilling Hindu document, Krishna explains to Arjuna that the person who removes his or her self from attachment to the sensory world will then become pure. It beats me how Radiohead incorporates this into the song, but I must say, I do love his dancing in the video.
57) Calvin Harris - Bounce (feat. Kelis) (Video Link)
Calvin Harris is hoping to rely on his expertise behind the mixing desk from now on, and has instead called on Kelis - now a club siren in her own right, of course - to fill in the blanks with her sultry tones for his latest track and third album trailer 'Bounce'.
"I can love again tonight/ We bounce to this track/ And I don't care what anybody thinks about that," Kelis purrs over a midi-fied melody reminiscent of a classic Gameboy, before Harris takes the reins on the vocal-less chorus complete with bang-on-trend squiggly synths and head-bopping beats - swerving its arcade-infused squiffs safely away from novelty territory.
58) Arctic Monkeys - Brick By Brick (Video Link)
"I'm gonna kick my feet up then stare at the fan/ Turn the TV on, throw my hand in my pants," Bruno Mars cheekily croons over a reggae-pop production courtesy of his knob-twiddling cohort The Smeezingtons. As he continues to chirp about doing diddly squat, the result nonetheless is a summery ditty head-bopper.
60) Glee Cast - Loser Like Me (Video Link)
Fronted by Rachel Berry (also known as Lea Michele, or Lea Michele, also known as Rachel Berry, whichever you like), 'Loser Like Me' is the anti-cool anthem; a double toe touch attack against the haters, cool kids and Sue Sylvesters of the world. Essentially a 'Raise Your Glass' Part II, their shared producers Max Martin and Shellback chuck the Pinks, Ke$has and Katy Perrys into the kitchen sink and add a generous coat of gloss and shimmer (and Auto-Tune) to create what is ultimately an audacious, unabashed and, crucially, authentic pop stomper that remains true to what Glee is all about.
Calvin Harris is hoping to rely on his expertise behind the mixing desk from now on, and has instead called on Kelis - now a club siren in her own right, of course - to fill in the blanks with her sultry tones for his latest track and third album trailer 'Bounce'.
"I can love again tonight/ We bounce to this track/ And I don't care what anybody thinks about that," Kelis purrs over a midi-fied melody reminiscent of a classic Gameboy, before Harris takes the reins on the vocal-less chorus complete with bang-on-trend squiggly synths and head-bopping beats - swerving its arcade-infused squiffs safely away from novelty territory.
58) Arctic Monkeys - Brick By Brick (Video Link)
“Brick by Brick” was the first glimpse we got of Suck it and See, and with it Matt Helders proves he’s a little bit more than just one of indie rock’s best drummers. We get simplistic couplets, each punctuated with a rumbling “brick by brick.” Stylistically, the song is an impressive transformation from Humbug. Musically, the song delivers the goods, with tempo changes, tight instrumentation, and a plucky guitar solo.
59) Bruno Mars - The Lazy Song (Video Link)"I'm gonna kick my feet up then stare at the fan/ Turn the TV on, throw my hand in my pants," Bruno Mars cheekily croons over a reggae-pop production courtesy of his knob-twiddling cohort The Smeezingtons. As he continues to chirp about doing diddly squat, the result nonetheless is a summery ditty head-bopper.
60) Glee Cast - Loser Like Me (Video Link)
Fronted by Rachel Berry (also known as Lea Michele, or Lea Michele, also known as Rachel Berry, whichever you like), 'Loser Like Me' is the anti-cool anthem; a double toe touch attack against the haters, cool kids and Sue Sylvesters of the world. Essentially a 'Raise Your Glass' Part II, their shared producers Max Martin and Shellback chuck the Pinks, Ke$has and Katy Perrys into the kitchen sink and add a generous coat of gloss and shimmer (and Auto-Tune) to create what is ultimately an audacious, unabashed and, crucially, authentic pop stomper that remains true to what Glee is all about.
Labels: Best Of Music 2011
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