Hidden Gems # 7

Yes


About a year ago I really wanted to investigate Prog music, I bought Ultimate Yes from a market in Huddersfield. I was expecting it to be ok, but when I listened to the first few songs on this collection I was completely blown away. I wasnt expecting too much as Yes were one of the more popular prog bands of the 70's but this music completely changed my original views, the music is inventive and completely original. Its music that is so crazy that very few bands would be able to replicate this kind of sound. It merges elements of funk, jazz, pop and rock together and the musicianship is unbelieveable.

This music takes you on a journey, songs like Starship Trooper is nine minutes of genius, this isnt music that your Dad should be locked away to enjoy whilst smoking a pipe and dreaming of the olden days where Razorlight didnt exist and you couldnt get a hit single by remixing Pink Floyd with the invention and imagination of a toddler.

Im not as keen on Yes's later material which is a but more pop, owner of a lonely heart being the best known example.

I only paid a fiver for this album and it is definately worth that and more, so if you want to treat yourself to something a bit special give this one a go, then again "Grace Kelly" by Mika is out next week, hmmm.

MP3: Starship Trooper

Memomena Friend and Foe

Dubbed by Pitchfork as "the first great indie rock record of 2007" Memomena certanly have a lot to live up to considering the great releases already this year from groups like the Shins and Field Music, but I have to agree this album is something special. This album is so multi-layered, if you have a decent pair of headphones just lie down, close your eyes and listen to this album. The albums opener Muscle N' Flo is a prime example from the opening crashing drums to the a sweet electronic ending, this album takes you somewhere else, and boy is it special. It takes several listens to take in how great this album is. I wouldnt be surprised if this record is both the first and the overall great album of the year, but then Mikas album isnt out yet.

MP3: Wet and Rusting

Sally Shaprio

Sally Shapiro's new album Disco Romance is a fantastic Swedish Pop record, picking up 80's pop infulence but the songs have an instant grabbing effect, I love this record. Songs like album opener "I'll be by your side" instantly sound like a classic pop song, the song lyrics hold an emotional depth which mixed with the fantastic melodies from producer Johan Agebjörn is a unbeatable mixture.
Its a breath of fresh air to hear these new Scandanvian pop artists, I hope this album is recieved to the acclaim that artists such as Annie were. If you are a fan of Donna Summer or any pop music for that matter listen to this album it is amazing, or you can listen to Mika?!?
Sally Shapiro
"I'll Be By Your Side" (mp3)
from "Disco Romance"
(Paper Bag Records)

Buy at iTunes Music Store
Buy at Rhapsody
Buy at Napster
Stream from Rhapsody
More On This Album

Hidden Gems #6

I have recently re-discovered my love for Creedence Clearater Revival, what an amazing band! Before Christmas I had put Walk On The Water, the last track on the self titled 1968 self titled album, on my MP3 player. I was walking down the road listening to some music and this song came on and blew me away, it gives me goose bumps when the building introduction leads to the funk bassed filled middle section. Woweee.

MP3: Walk On The Water

Voxtrot

I hope 2007 will be a big year for Voxtrot in the UK, they hotly tipped in the USA and with instant comparisions to groups like Belle and Sebastian and the Shins this year should seem them explode. They have several EPs available and there should be an album out this year.

Myspace

MP3: Your Biggest Fan

New Arcade Fire Single

The new album by the magnificant Arcade Fire is out in March, which is not very long. If you are an eager beaver and want to here something new the band have posted their new single Black Mirror on their website. I wasnt blown away at first, but I think my expectations are far too high. I have a feeling that it will grow on me, see what you think, the track is posted on the Win's scrapbook section on the Arcade Fire homepage.

Hidden Gems #5

Over Christmas I was waiting for my Dad in the car outside Hempton garden centre and when I turned the radio on Love Hangover by Diana Ross came on, the first minute or so of the song is standard soul fayre then it kicks off into a mental Disco riff. I was amazed, and im quite sure the people visting Hempton garden centre weren't sure what I was doing in the car, but I assure you it wasnt what im sure what they were thinking. This song is such a fantastic pop record, just everything about it is perfect, its like a disco version of the fantastic soul group the Rotary Connection.
I know Diana Ross is now mildly insane, but lets remember her at her funky best.

MP3: Diana Ross- Love Hangover

+/-

I've been enjoying the new album by +/- (plus minus) recently, if you are a fan of indie/electronica groups like The Postal Service or Frou Frou you will enjoy Lets Build A Fire out on Absoutely Kosher Records. Its a wonderfully melodic record which has formed a welcome alternative to the thrash metal I have been listening to recently. The band have been together for a while so hopefully 2007 will be the year to throw them into stardom in the UK.

MP3:

Download "Steal the Blueprints" (mp3)
from "Let's Build a Fire"
by +/- {Plus/Minus}
Absolutely Kosher

• Buy at iTunes Music Store
• Buy at eMusic
• Buy at RealNetworks / Rhapsody
• Buy at Napster
• Buy at GroupieTunes
• Buy at Insound

More On This Album

James Brown 1933-2006

On Christmas Day, one of musics greatest ever talents James Brown passed away. Im sure anyone who appreciates music feels deeply saddened by the loss of one of the finest pioneers of music in recent history. If you are not familar with his music, seek some out because it will change the way you think and appreciate many modern music genres.

Here are a couple of my favourite songs by the great man himself.


MP3: I Cant Stand Myself (When You Touch Me) Parts 1 & 2

MP3: Coldblooded