All about the icons of pop culture. Including art, music, TV series, movies and fashion. Queer in nature, straight forward in its approach and classical in an unconventional manner. From review to preview, I'll talk about it, analyze it and celebrate it! Icon Art Marilyn loves pop culture.
An icon is someone who makes an effort. Art makes an effort. Therefore art is an icon. Marilyn Monroe was and is an icon and a work of art as well. Hence Marilyn Monroe and art have a nature in common. Icon - Art - Marilyn is iconic.
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Lets be frankly honest: Tropico was one pretty much awesome, 30 minute long, metaphor for America, in the form of a film / Music video with super 8 optics. You know, the classical banning from paradise and redemption story. It felt like an end to the whole Born To Die thing. A worthy, and very over the top, typical Lana Del Rey, end. And Ultraviolence, as its follow up, opening her new creative endeavor,is kind of not what could have been expected from an artist of Lana's caliber.
Sure you will have noticed by now that this album review is not an album review per se. I have attempted quite a few times to write a review about her new album with a mixed feeling of trashing it, loving it, hating her, loving her and emulating her sadness. However I found it quite difficult to review the album song by song, as my whole expectations and feelings towards her and Ultraviolence felt more of like a need for an overall comment.
When I had a closer look at Tropico a while ago I described her as " Hollywood back in the days, and not big blockbuster L.A." (To read the whole analysis of Tropico and why Lana Del Rey is the most American thing since Coke, click right here!) And I stick with this for sure. However I start to doubt that Lana will ver be only one thing more then old Hollywood. And as well all know old Hollywood was practically doomed from the beginning. It was fake, for apart, alcoholic, drugged up, fake and depressed. The dream factory was woven from nightmarish strings. And I fear that Miss Del Rey is just that and nothing more. Kind of like a one trick pony.
But before you turn on me lat me say that the album has no song that really is not a good song, however I feel that lana has turned darker, and yes that is hard to imagine. The songs sound more chilly, more depressed and somewhat replaceable between each other. She is not able to pick up where she left and bring her best like she did on Summertime Sadness e.g. This vibes she may be giving with this LP might be James Bond like, 70's and 60's inspired, less hip hop influenced and more Curt Cobain goes pop. However I don't see a real development there. I mean I don't expect her to go all Beyonce' or whatever on us, cause that is not her, however the development she made is, for my taste too marginal. The album bares no landmarks for me as you listen trough it and nothing sticks. Maybe this is reasoned within the topics she sings about. Cause sad to say they have not changed since Born To Die: Paradise Edition.
On the other hand it seems good to know she stays true to herself and so indie. Yet again her absolutely no desire to be a pop princess thing and her low attitude now only translates into boring and to be honest, the album sometimes seems like recorded whilst still half asleep. Not to mentioned that some tracks remind me of these songs off her that are online and officially unreleased.
And on another note, that I don't want to tickle too much, as I am not quite informed enough o speak eloquently, Lana's romanticization of death, her obsessions with club 27 and that "I don't think Feminism is an interesting concept." line don't shed her in such a good light. Okay I get it: club 27 and death re romantic topics and they are mystery covered all over, however there is a limit of overall sadness. And that feminism line. If its true or not, I don't know. However she is pretty stupid to say so, as her whole life is feminism influenced and basically funded. As without feminism she would be nowhere where she is now.
In closure I can say that Lana's Ultraviolence still is a beautiful listen, yet a boring one in a sense. The facet of colors is not the biggest one and the variety of lyric topics is limited. Yet the whole thing is worth listening to. It is up to the listener what to make of it, but please Lana, don't be so stupid and deny feminism its interest or even its impact. Educate yourself goddammit!
Les-be-honest, darlings Britney Spears latest musical endeavour called "Britney Jean" was not much of a strike of brilliance. Yes, its Dita throwing some shade hewre! There might be two or three good ones on there but it definitely is more like "Britney-Do-You-Really-Try-To-Sell-This-Overproduced-Shit-As-Personal-Jean". Not convinced? Read the review here!
BUT, and its a big one (Pun intended!), Britney has served us real good stuff during a time when she was everything but right in he remind and her career was on a huge down path. Remember the headlines? "Bold Britney Beat Up A Car!", "Fatney Spears - VMA Bacon Comeback" and "Blackout - Yes turn off the lights when she is on stage!". As they may be harsh an nowadays that would not happen to any celeb again, the then released "Blackout" is one of the best pop dance albums I know. And hunty, I know quite a few out of this decade! Blackout, released in October 2007, has acclaimed critical appraisal and quite a commercial success it somewhat is the always understated and undervalued album of Spears. And let me state one thin in advance: I don't know how they prepped her up to record it, or maybe the challenge to record it and the expectations get her going on it. I don't know it, but i do know that it is damn amazing. SO lets go through the whole thing track by goddamn great track!
Lets start off with the album cover: Well I am torn. On one hand I like the overall design it is bright colored, club reminiscent and very much an homage to a drug trip thing (I think.) The design is clear, no bling bling, just clear her in the middle and the title and her name bold on it. Ain't nothing wrong with that. All though I have to object with her nappy wig and her outfit! Gurrl, you seemed to have pissed off the wrong queen!
Anyways, lets get to the essential things: the songs. Blackout comes with a regular number of 12 and in the Japanese bonus version with up to 15 tracks plus one remix. Pretty decent in my eyes, but could also have been one or two songs more. Fair enough she offers some variety.
01 - Gimme More
"It's Britney Bitch!" - The one iconic line that still accompanies Britney till today opens album opener and lead single of Blackout. The song scores with a great hook, mesmerizing clap beats and a twisted beat that gets you on the floor and to the pole. The lyrics are simple, everyone knows them and the attitude is pretty clear. Just a simple pop song that has caught the world on fire and still gets us going! A clear 10/10, and hence a must have in every good party music collection!
02 - Piece Of Me
Probably the heart of the album as it clears up with all the fuzz surrounding Britney in the times of her and her escapades. Well and certainly everyone wanted one or more pieces of her and she just gone mad. And this song wonderfully expresses this with a vibrant beat and intervening moaning voices. Simple in beat structure over the chorus and taking up the intensity in the hook. A real grant for great fun and dance joy! Misses "Oh-My-God-That-Britney-Shameless" gives you her best kiss my ass and leave me alone song. Another aim, shoot and goal 10 out of 10!
03 -Radar
Bing Bing beat and a 90's action video game adventure sound with a dominant bass beat could usually not go wrong, but in comparison to its precedes this one has certainly less appeal. But that does not mean its less fun as it is mysterious and quirky at once giving us full battle commander sexy realness. I am game for that battle so lets start the rockets at a good 8/10!
04 - Break The Ice
First I have to say I was not madly in love with this one but then my
attachment grew, somewhat quilted towards that insanely amusing and
crazy ass video. Japanese porn inspired Aime stuff? WTF? And then with a
side twist? Okay I am game! The song actually is a mixture of what you
think the 80's must have sounded like with more computers and
synthesizers. Just the chorus that sound like sung by a choir and the mysterious beat get you into the game. A clear 8/10. (And yes, my body is spinning like a hurricane!)
05 - Heaven On Earth
Okay this is the only song I am not that fond of. There is just something about this one that is a bit annoying. The Lolita thing gone icy sexy, waiting for a man that is perfect does not do it for me, and darling the whole desire in your body thing does not as well. May be intended as a good one, but give me one minute with it and I am pretty much over it. #SorryNotSorry Still a 6/10.
06 - Get Naked (I Got A Plan)
And the sun rises again as a sick and twisted beat comes on with a mad house attitude that brings out the songs Joker qualities. Two face Brit is on her way as she announces her craziness with her sexy alter ego crawling the imaginary corridors of Gotham Asylum. The sex undertone and the obvious male gaze that comes from the male song in there might not be considerable for a feminism award but the song still gets the sound approval of 9/10.
07 - Freakshow
My personal album favorite with a booming beat that vibes at the beginning. Freakshow is what I love about "Blackout" most: the desire and balls to go a bit freaky, experimental and electronic. Away from Nelly Furtado 2006 and 2007 back to twisted, quirky and crazy tunes as this one is. With an upbeat tempo and synthesizers used to the nines I am one happy listener! Definitely 10/10! Great work!
08 - Toy Soldier
Another twisted beat that says: this Britney said goodbye for good from the school girl Lolita thing. Thank god! Sounds like a march as the drums are always present in the background. Maybe due to the song theme of men as soldiers and that she is said of these toy soldiers. What she wants is a real man. Okay Brit, wish granted! With that good of a quirky song I can not object! 8/10
09 - Hot As Ice
And right when there is a score against the "I am a sweet lil Lolita" image it comes right back around the corner in form of this song. And damn! The song is pretty catchy all though the whole thing somewhat is lacking vision and singing " I'm just a girl with the ability to drive the men crazy" is not what I would call interesting and adult challenging smart lyrics. As well the sound is rather boring compared to the other bangers on here. 6/10
10 - Ooh Ooh Baby
Sounds like Spanish guitars meeting pop electronic music and that is what it is. Another Lolita song. But a fair enough better one then number nine so I might as well spare the "Stop-The-Lolita-Crap" part and give the song its 7/10.
11 - Perfect Lover
Twisted and a little mystical comes number eleven of "Blackout" that, as most of the other songs turns around the one topic of the album: men. Well we will have to work with that, but the song has this erotic energy that we really get an idea of a hot steamy seductive vixen thing going. fair enough that is worth 8/10 and the remark that "Blackout" will probably not enter history as a feminist album.
12 - Why Should I Be Sad
The slowest song on the album is as close to a classical Britney ballad as the theme of electronics of the album lets it get. The lyrics are to sing along and the idea behind the whole song believable, all though its about men once more. But Britney singing" Yeah I cant believe I did it" makes some sense taking the time this album was released in concerned. And after all the girl shall not be said as her life seriously can not be that bad in 2014. A good, solid 8/10.
In summary "Blackout" reaches a score of 98 points out of 120, which gives an average of about 8,2 points per song, and if I am not wrong that should totally be one of the best reviews on here. "Blackout" might not be a lyrical masterpiece, cut on amazing and world turning topics or push forward our perceptions of female performers, but that was never the intend of this record. It just is the music that leads to blackouts, is played after one and that will lead the electrics to shutdown cause its so good that it causes a blackout as the crowd goes wild. It simply is damn god pop and dance record.
As 2013 only has a few more days to go, we are all still in some sort of a food coma from the christmas feast, new years eve is coming nearer and nearer (And most of us still don`t have any idea what to do on this eve!) one thing is as well left to do for 2013: looking back and crowning what has been good, and shading what is to be shaded!
Oh and friends believe me, there is plenty of lorries to give and shade to spill! Today we will start off the series with the category of music and music videos, as it is the largest as well. Tomorrow, on the 28th you will get the categories of Movies and TV, on the 29th you will get Art and Fashion and on the 30th I will give you the honorees and "honorees" of the LGBT IQA category! So lets start the feast! Shall we?
The Sound of 2013 –
“We Can’t Stop” & “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus
No one, literally no one could escape the
hype that was “We Cant Stop” and “Wrecking Ball” in 2013. You can discuss
whether they are good pop songs but not to be doubted they dominated airplay,
the download charts and our playlists. And besides that the music videos for
both songs, which have proven to be provocative enough, have certainly added to
the buzz surrounding Miley’s album “BANGERZ”. So the sound of 2013 is definitely
made by, having “tongue-stick-out-itis”, Miley Cyrus.
Best Song With a
Message 2013 – “Hard Out Here” by Lily Allen & “Same Love” by
Macklemore, Ryan Lewis and Mary J. Lambert
As 2013 has seen so many negatives it was so
refreshing to hear two songs that clearly were aiming for the different side of
the pond: protest, waking us up and giving a socially relevant message. A clear
decision was not easy to make so the award goes out to two songs. Macklemore,
Ryan Lewis and Mart Lambert definitely raised awareness for a topic close to
many LGBT IQA members: same sex marriage and the acceptance of love. On the
other hand Lily Allen and her ironically twisted come back single “Hard Out
Here” gave us feminism behind a huge slam of irony and criticism. Touché douchebags and applause to our
women!
Long have we been waiting for Lady Gaga to
release some new music and when “ARTPOP” finally came out I immediately fell in
love with the title track as it depicts the rawness of a heartfelt track, the
mystical lyrics of a hymn, the electronic beats of a modern song, the aura of a
favorite track and the overall perfection of a hit song.
Best Hip Hop Song 2013
– “Change Your Life” by Iggy Azalea
Iggy has been a newcomer in the scene for a
while but instead of ranting on Twitter and everywhere else like Azealia Banks,
Iggy focuses of music and her artistry and releases stuff like “Change Your
Life” that really is great music. Definitely a great hip-hop track and one of
the best numbers of the year.
Rock has always been a side thing for me
since I am not that much into real heavy rock music. But Semi Precious Weapons,
with their glam rock style of music, have really hit the nail with their song
“Aviation High” this year. A great rock song that features slow elements, great
rock star lyrics and that glam rock identity that they have presented to us on
their first record. They might have changed their style a little but still are
my favorite rock band.
Song of Effort 2013 – “Walking On Air” by Katy Perry
You know that I have not been a huge fan of
Katy Perry’s album Prism but a few songs on there are good and “Walking On Air”
has really been a good musical addition to 2013. So it had to be on this list
and, even though its not one of the best records, there has been a huge effort
invested into this song. So give it a listen.
Best Pop Album 2013
– “ARTPOP” by Lady Gaga
“ARTPOP” was promised to be a reinvention of
what we know of Lady Gaga’s music and persona. All though it might not be as
revolutionary as she intended it to be it definitely shows a growth of her as
an artist and musician. The album is less commercial, more experimental, less
mainstream and very versatile in its sounds and the genres it crosses (Even if
overall it is to be labeled as electronic dance music and synth pop.). “ARTPOP”
came along with an app and proved itself to be a “reverse warholian” experience
as puts the art onto the soup can and not the soup can into art, as Warhol once
did.
Best Hip Hop Album 2013
– “Matangi” by M.I.A.
M.I.A. really made an effort on this album
that is not matched by any other artist as she really showed that hip-hop and
rap music is so much more then what we are used to. This album impressively
shows the fusion between modern music and electronic influences with the sounds
and ideas of oriental music. Besides her lyrical genius we get whet we were
promised: good hip-hop.
Best Rock Album 2013
– “Modern Vampires of the City” by Vampire Weekend
“Modern Vampires Of The City” definitely is
not one of the “lalala-sing-along-feel good” albums. It is more of well
executed and produced big city music with a modest touch of melancholy, apathy
and despair. But not in a soul sucking manner but much more a grown up version
of fears and desires in the surrounding of the hub called mega city. Imagine
German big city poetry meets rock band philosophers.
Album of Efforts 2013-
“Trouble” by Natalia Kills
This one is definitely a great album and had
chances to snatch the title for best pop album. But it has not been THE best
pop album, but one of the best pop records. So lets give it the honor and say
that “Trouble” is one of the albums that keeps the promise that it title give.
Really an anthem for trouble makes, misunderstood people, problem kids and
creative minds.
Male Artist of the Year
– David Bowie
Ziggy Stardust might be dead for a while
already but David Bowie has come back once more to bless rock music with his
talent and with his energy, charisma and ideas. His latest effort, the album
“The Next Day”, really is what good rock music is about and David has proven
that he still is able to turn it out like hell!
Female Artist of the
Year – P!nk
P!nk has always been a strong and independent
woman, she struts her stuff musical wise and acrobatic wise as well as a PETA
activist, mother, feminist, gay and lesbian icon and idol for her fans. Her
music and performance certainly have raised the bar on what to expect from a
great performer and original creator and musician. And even better: P!nk does
not take herself too seriously.
Best Newcomer Male
– Steve Grand
Steve Grand is an absolute newcomer and what
makes him extra special is not his body of a hunk, his amazing voice and his
gorgeous face, cause many others share these qualities, but more the fact that
he is the first openly gay and proud country musician that features same sex
desires, love and struggles in his songs. And besides that he really is hot and
has a gorgeous voice.
Best Newcomer Female–
Sky Ferreira
Sky is not a real newcomer in the classic
sense but she is in the sense that her debut album was just released this year,
and never before has melancholy sounded any more beautiful. But not in the Lana
Del Rey pop America idea but rather in a rock, alternative way with a twist of
rebellion and double entendres towards anything.
Best Newcomer Group or
Duo – Icona Pop
Just when you thought that David Guetta and
Will.I.Am had ruined everything that was electronic music these two girls made
their jump onto the scene and proved that good electronic music does (A) not
have to be generic and (B) can have some smart lyrics. And their anthem “I Love
It” made sure we all had a song to dance, sing and freak out along in the club
as we screamed stuff like “I am a 90´s bitch!”, which practically counts for
myself so “I don´t care, I love it!”
Comeback of the Year
- Cher with “Closer To The Truth”
Lord! She had us gagging! (But that wig at
her “The Voice” performance was awful! Sorry Cher!) And we were having it when
“Woman’s World” graced our ears. And when the album finally came out it was
pure heaven. She gave us 50 Shades of Cher that brought us closer to the truth
of good music as she might not dominate but not gives a fuck on chart
positions. The album clearly shows that she is the head bitch in charge and
gave us Cher at her “cher-est”.
Best Music Video 2013
– “Applause” by Lady Gaga
Well, well, well. That one was pretty
obvious. All though not as legendary as her “Bad Romance” video (And lets be
honest here: Gaga has set the level so unbe-weav-ably high with this video that
she made it hard to surpass herself!) Applause is easily the best video of the
year as it features gaga-esque dancing; fashion and hurricane of references
that pop culture obsessed people can fight about. Long story short: she pissed
on that competition, and they applauded. Naturally.
WTF Music Video 2013
– “Candy Yum Yum” by Kevin Mikal
There is that certain moment when you ask
yourself weather you watch porn or music videos, and this one definitely had me
thinking what I was watching. It turned out to be a music video with gay men
dancing as if they were female strippers and I thought: “Well females have to
dance like that in all the videos, lets put it under equality and gay body
desire!”, but judge for yourself!
WTF Music Moment 2013
– Beyoncé surprise releases “BEYONCE”
Lets put it the following: When Beyoncé
dropped her album without any promo on I-Tunes and PISSED OFF, PEED ON and
SHADED the competition, broke the internet and set all the gays on fire she
ensured that from that day on album releases will be measured in “Beyoncé’s”.
Bow down bitches!
Most Annoying Song 2013
– “Gentleman” by Psy
I was most annoyed by “Gangam Style” last
year and “Gentleman” did not really better my opinion about Psy. All though I
will give it to him that he knows how to make something catchy I just dislike
the song due to its generic character, stupidity and simplicity. Sorry, but
ride on, cause aint no place for you here!
Should Be Forbidden
Song 2013 – “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke
Have you really listened to the lyrics? Have
you seen the video? Have you seen the uncensored video? I mean: really? If that
is what 2013 and feminism looks like then lord, I don`t want to be living on
this goddamn planet anymore! Even though the sound of it is somehow good the
lyrics and the overall are so wrong. Because that is misogyny, stupidity and
exploitation, and nothing else.
Most Overplayed Song
2013 – “Best Song Ever” by One Direction
God love these for or five, or whatever
number they are, British teen lads with millions of fan-girls and flaming gay
fan boys but lord please the song has been played more then Kim Kardashians
vagina. I mean there is a limit!
Most Overrated Male Artist
of 2013 – Justin Timberlake
Never really fell in love with him, his image
or his music. So his comeback might be amazing for others but I was sitting
back and yawned when he performed that VMA number (That was way too long!). As
well: The “20/20 Experience” is not as good as people proclaim it. If you
listen closely you hear 2008 in it, only a bit better polished this time. Aint
nobody got time for dat!
Most Overrated Female
Artist 2013 – Taylor Swift
Its not really a surprise that I put the cunt
of country on here, is it? Cause when I see that woman`s face all I can think
about is how much money I could have made with writing stuff about people I
have broken up with…. oh, that are not that many. Well that maybe means I am
not such a whore like she is. No seriously…… she probably is a hooker… uhm I
meant a nice girl that makes innocent c(o)untry music.
Lana Del Rey has finally come up again in the media landscape after she has been in hiding for several months, except for here and there announcing the release of "Tropico" And as it finally dropped on December 5th she announced her new album "Ultraviolet".
It all started out with her single "Ride" that then and there I really got into thinking that Lana Del Rey as a figure, character and songtress embodies something purely American: the essence of America itsself (Well, at least of how she imagines it.) "Ride", a melancholic retroperspective on the great American myth, the frontier, the dream and the shattered promise of success, all mixed in with one of Americas central aspects: freedom. Lana seems to be what America has been, is and never will be again. Her oveure is filled with almost mythological refernces to the American dream and icons of Hollywoods golden era. She exploits, praises, criticizes and honores them simultaneously. But other then her contemporaries, like Rihanna and or Lady Gaga, she positions herself very differently towards these icons. For Gaga Marilyn might be and inspirtion, idol and predecessor, but for Lana Marilyn is a contemporary, because she highly references the iconic aura stars as Monroe, Elvis and Bettie Davis create. Lana is Hollywood back in the days, and not big blockbuster L.A.
Remarkable as well is that her work, the work of a true romantic in the literature theory sense of the word, deals with the question of the female identity in this world she creates. The representation of women. the standarts of their perception, American macho culture and masculitity stereotypes as body exposure, romaticizeation and men that are almost animalistic in their gender perception and performance are constants in her work. But as these men she shows are violently animalistic they as well disply a strong protective and very soft side. The roughest men seem the softest, the most innocent and most unexpected in their actions in difference towards our perception and expectations of their bestiality. The constrcut of the classical American man has always been at question and in the world of Lana finally is thrown overboard as they curl her hair in "Ride".
All of this is directly linked to aspects of America and it's possibilities arousing from its mythology. Del Rey's America is not a country, nor the idea of the American Dream, but rather a great concept of existing out of common societies safety net that promises a notion of freedom that is not free in the eyes of Lana. Del Rey's freedom and America is a place where categories of common sense and notion as well as perception are no longer necessary, no longer of any importance. Life is today, and tomorrow is the big unknown to hug as a friend, not to prepare for today and then to face. All this seems pretty romanticized, out of date and like Lana herself is so fake and unknown to most of us that we feel it to be hyper-real.
With all that said we should get on track to "Tropico", Lana's latest effort. Visual wise "Tropico" is Lana Del Rey at her most "Lana-esque" she has ever been. We get super eight camera style 30 minutes of dreaming in smushed and beautifully smeared Technicolor reminescent pictures. Blurred colors and lens flares blend in perfectly to create that atmosphere of loss, happyness, sadness and melancholy at once, so that you ultimately feel: This is the crazy world of Lana Del Rey, and I am a mere spectator. Cause aint no one as melodramatic as her. Cut short we might say that "Tropico" is a story of paradise life, growing bored of it, getting kicked out of it, lhaving to live in the human created hell on earth, the beauty and pain in this hell and the possible slavation and redemption. (Well, plus or minus a joint.)
But the big question raising rather is: What in Lana Del Rey's world and work is real subtext and what is pure fantasy? Is there even a distinction between those two as the realmin which we look at them is so romanticized, so fake an hyper-real that they maybe are the same?
Man, this year has flown by like nothing. At least it feels like it, even though looking back it seemed so filled with big pop cultural moments like no other. So what better way to look at the passed year then starting a review of it that looks back by giving a list of the 20 songs that invaded my ear. So lets start the first part of the list, number 20 till 11!
Raja, is season three winner of RuPauls Drag Race. Raja is known for her androgyneous, warrior type style of drag that dominates the runway. She might not be as known as Jinkx or Willam but Raja has this very mystical and daring personality. Sublime might be from 2012, and hence can only gets the "Honorary Mention", but it is such a great song with a concept music video that it just had to be part of this list. Because it is about that time, I am feeling so sublime.
#21 (Should Be On The List, But Not in the Top 20) - "Dark Horse" by Katy Perry feat. Juicy J. (2013)
As you may have noticed I was not what you call in love with Katy Perry's latest musical effort named PRISM. But there is one song on there that has made its way into my musical heart and that is Dark Horse. Maybe its ound like a chipmunk remix of something in the beginning but then turns into this vibrant beat thing with some funk musoc in it. Katy making it a mixture of singing and rapping and Juicy J really delivering a fitting rap end make up a bit for PRISM as a musical failure.
#20 - "Excuse My Rude by Jessie J from "Alive" (2013)
There is something about Jessie J's voice that mae you either wanna hate or love her. And with "Excuse My Rude" Jessie not only hits all the right notes, but as well is she rocking all the right lyrics. This song definitely says it all and say it best when simply stating "Excuse my rude, but I really fucking hate you!", I mean if we are honest there are a few people you would like to say that to. (I actually have a long list of such people!)
#19 - "The Stars Are Out Tonight" by David Bowie from "The Next Day" (2013)
Smooth, soothing ans sensual. These three words may describe this song best as it is a great song from an even greater and legendary musician. The song definitely reminds me of one of these old lounge act that stand n a stage in a small club and the leaad singer makes love to the mic. What is not to love about that? Exactly! And even better is the music video starring Bowie himself and Tilda Swinton. #Legendary
M.I.A. is a very well known symbol for hip hop and rap that is not kept in boundaries. And that is seldom in the buisness since hip hop has always been about stereotyper, heteronormativity and the American Way. So what distinguishes M.I.A. and "Bad Girls" from it is that she manages it perfectly to mix in oriental flair and sounds without loosing thedgyness of the new electronic hip hop wave. That song definitively is one of my favorites for driving in my car.
Robin Thickes "Blurred Lines" was such a horrible song that it definitely deserved to be parodies an taken to the realm of funny. And along there comes a bunch of witty and funny queens that make this one their own. "#BlurredBynes" is as much a parody of "Blurred Lines" as itis making fun of Amanda Bynes, supportng Amanda Bynes and making fun of absolutely anyone and anything. Besides amazing drag looks, sickening lyrics we get some of the greatest hashtags ever! #VAGINACIDE #SRSLYSYRIA
It has been a while since Britney Spears has released a new album. But now she did it again and put out her latest project "Britney Jean". She marketed the album as the most personal album of hers up to date. Well, lets see if this glimpse at the "real" Britney really is what she promises us.
The cover is very clear and kept simple... Almost too simple. Just her and a neon sign that says Britney jean in a red heart. Well, that s not what I a would call very creative but I guess it is supposed to show simplicity and honesty of Britney.(And actually I want to say that every intern could have created this picture. Give a fan a picture of her, photoshop and a little time and they will come up with a way more striking cover! Well, alegedly!) BUT: honest is what the cover definitely is not. Look at her! I mean it is pretty but actually it is the most photoshopped picture I have seen in a while! (Allegedly!) Let me give you some tips Brit. If you want to make this album to be closer to your fans, to be their friend, to be their supporter and their idol at the same time then make the whole recepie less photoshop and more of the real you. Please! You are beautiful without tons of photoshop! (And some wrinkles and other natural characteristics of beeing 30 somethig ish are normal, and if necessary can be covered with something called make-up.) Anyways, lets get back to the real buisness and focs on what an album actually is about: the music of it. ""Britney Jean" comes along with 14 songs on the delxe version, but only 11 or so in the standart one. Damn, that is a short album!
Lets get to the songs in detail and haopefully not find something to really wrip into shreds, because I already have the feeling that there might be some things And thereby I mean a shitload of stuff!) to criticize. Because Britney has been husteling along in the industry for about 15 years or so now, and I always had the feeling that she was more of a ventriloquist puppet for managers and stuff then she actually was in absolute control of her artictic output. (Nevertheless we have been seeing some amazing performances, heard somegood songs and could sing along a ton of Brit songs!)
#1 - Alien
The albums starts off with this interestingly titled mid tempo pop song. The choice to name it Alien gives certain expectations that somehowwont be easy to fullfill. Although the song has some magic to it in its charming hook and the mesmerizing qualities autonune has put out of Britneys voice. (Lets face the music here: Autotne comes in different categories. There is a bit, there is some centimeters and there is shitloads.And this is somewhere between shitloads and centimeters! #SorryBoutIt) The song, on long distance, fails a bit to deliver the goodies, but still it is a nice one. So I will be good and give it a 7/10.
#2 - Work Bitch
Oh yes, the old hustle for something game. As many others have pointed out I have to admit that the topic is old and others might have worked it out better. If you want a depth analysis of it just click here and read all about it. But just then I also have to admit that I listen tto it sometimes and in the club I have requested it once. So I will be nice again and make it a 7/10.
#3 - Perfume
Okay, right now I already get the feeling that Britney has it with generic titles that create expectations. but this one is better at delivering the goods for it. As the fist ballad of the album "Perfume" delives some good vocals from Britney. The chorus on the other hand I am split about. One half finds it repetitive and stupidly boring to make perfume about marking territory the ther hal is hopelessly singing along and liking the idea. A torn 6/10.
#4 - It Should Be Easy feat. Will.I.Am
Hold my hair please! I hate that everyone needs to work with Will.I.Am. I hate his sound, it is so damn signature like and so damn generic. The song starts off nicely, but in the end is just a rip off of Work Bitch and "Scream And Shout" mixed. The use of autotune to make it electronic might be interesting, but my ears are actually hurting after the third listen of it. So 5/10 is nice, and would have been one less if it was not for some catchy parts of the song.
Okay it has happened again: a leak! I've had this topic before and I still have to say i do not appreciate leaks and the problems they bring with them. Thing is: Lady Gaga's latest pop epos should have been released earliest on November 6th in Japan, but the album has leaked in full and high quality on November 2nd. And thing is that I could not resist and have listened to it in whole. So now I can give you a track by track review of "ARTPOP". But still I will get my digital copy and my physical copy, which I encourage you to do as well, since we should support our favorite artists.
I have discussed the cover an promotional efforts of "ARTPOP" in very length. And by that I mean that I have discussed everything concerning "Applause", the "Applause" Music Video, made comments on why Lady Gagais like Tinker Belle, analyzed the leaked song "Aura" and have been tweeting about the album constantly. As well I have given you some of my opinion on the legendary "ARTPOP" album cover that Lady Gaga has been releasing slowly and part by part via her fans tweets. So we can skip the usual pre-story of the album and hump directly to the songs. Oh and by the way: That one review on a certain bad gossip webside, from a certain Person calling herself a "music journalist" on her twitter actually is so painful to read that i just want to say that never a Madonna die hard fan, and I love Madonna myself, should be allowed to write a review of a Lady Gaga Album. I mean she believes that the hips surgery of Gaga in February 2013 was fake. Yeah, and so was the moonlanding! #Idiot #Fail
I have given you my opinion on the song before. The Studio Version might be a bit different to the leaked ´Version, but actually it is even more magical with Gaga's voice beeing atonal to the Music at some point. Actually it is a great Album starter and gives you a hint that "ARTPOP" will be a joyride of all the gaga-esque things we love! That leaves "Aura" with a nice 8/10 in the ranking.
Released as part of the countdown to "ARTPOP" "Venus" has gotten ist own in depth review from me. Nothing much to add to it so I am just gonna give it a nice "I love it!" and a rating of 9/10 possible points.
03 - G.U.Y.
Wow! I absolutey love the beginning of the song. I mean the intro is very electronic but still very mystical and the song does really do it for me. I mean what is not to love about the rendering of guy to "G.U.Y."? The idea of a girl under you does not mean that one is not a feminist. (Never Forget about 3rd wave feminism!) The whole song raises the qustion of power in relationships and about the power of females in love. Possibly a feminist disco sex anthem with a great electronic undervibe. Typically Gaga - a straight 9/10!
04 - Sexxx Dreams
Definitly one of my absolute favorites on "ARTPOP". It is a mid tempo song with a twisted and naught sounding beat to it and the way she manages it to use her voice within the music and give it that robotic and electronic but still very sexy twist is just plain amazing, in my opinion. The lyrics are just absolute great and remind em of a mixture of a cheesy love Story with an affair in the middle and a great sexual romance. The song definitely lives up to its expectations and therefore gets the first 10/10 in the review of this album!
05 - Jewls'n Drugs Feat. T.I., Too Short & Twista
I love it when Gaga hits onto new territories and different muscial Genres then her usual pop, rock and electronic. And this one is her first really major venuture into hip hop and rap. Her lyrics are dark and bitchy twisted and typically hip hop and rap. But sadly I have to report that I would have liked the whole thing better with just Gaga and only one of the three doing rappers on it. Even though the beats and the electronic tunes are epic, get you to bring out your inner rapper, the song has not that much Gaga vocals to it, so it is a bit disappointing. Still a great song, but not my favorite. So that gets it a rating of 7/10.
06 - MANiCURE
Very rock, very sexy and very glam pop - you can directly feel Grace Jones and Kiss joining in. But broken down it is another typical Gaga song that will get you on your feet to dance and go up and down to it. It is all about naughtyness and rock chicks having an addiction to two things: men and manicures. But not in that silly Barbie way, but in a very independant women way. Very strong powerfull and a clear 8/10 for me!
Another song we have already heared as promotion for "ARTPOP", and also the second single due to ist huge success in the iTunes Charts. (That song has sky rocketed to the number one spot in 70 countries! And that is a new record!) A good song with great lyricas and vocals that gets me totally in the R'n'B mood. (Even though I could also get rid of R.Kelly on it, but aint nobody got time for that!) Make it an 8/10.
08 - ARTPOP
And there is the mystical title track that personally is one of my favorites. The atmosphere it spreads is a mixture of mystical rosegarden meets out of this world art show with rebirth performances. A very refreshing song that really shows how an electronic voice can be used in a high quality to actually make music less mainstream by sing a meanstream technique. Also the song really Shows what "ARTPOP" is all about: bringing things together. Another 10/10 for me!
09 -Swine
Gaga has has a feud with Perez Hilton after he allegedly stalked her. Right after her iTunes Festival Performance was called "Swine Fest" by her. Coincidence? What so ever, "Swine" is an amazingly rck and electro song that deiveres the goods everywhere. With its experimental and rough sound Gaga actually gets deep into the topic of people relation and how oneself can turn into a swine on the inside. Very good sing along song as well, ad hence a clear 9/10!
10 - Donatella
My personal favorite from "ARTPOP" is Lady Gaga's hommage to Donatella Versace. The beginning, where Gaga sings: "I am so fab! Check out: I am blonde, I'm skinny, I'm rich and I am a little bit of a bitch!", could easily become her new: "I want my whisky mouth, down over my blonde south.". The lyrics are actually so wrong sometimes that it is campy to such an extend that we have to read them ironically. The chorus gives me the shivers and the line "Walk down the runway but don't punke // its okay // you just had a salad today" gives me the big smile! A clear 10/10 for me!
11 - Fashion!
The first one where I really raise my eyebrows. I hear the will.i.am in this! And, even though I love the BEP, i am sick of will.i.am and his endeaours in music. The song is more on the slow side and sings about all things "a la mode" and fashion. But basically it is the developement of her earlier song "Fashion". Sorry Gag's but this one is just okay for me, so its just a 6/10, cause compared to the rest it seems pretty weak.
12 - Mary Jane Holland
And another favorite of mine. To get Madeon in the boat of "ARTPOP" producers was a great idea. I mean this drug inspired song is just amazing. "Russian hookers and cheap gin" is easily another remarkable and iconic lyric line that makes its way directl into my heart. And the sich and twisted beats this song has gets you to bounce your cool out and be all sexy, naughty, dirty! A definite must listen in "ARTPOP" with the guarantee of controvery! A clear 10/10, even though it really is all about weed ;).
13 - Dope
Earlier the song was presented as "I Wanna Be With you", but now changed to "Dope". But the basic message to the fans is the same since it says that Gaga is nothing wthout her fans and that she really is only half and completed by her little monsters. The first ballad on "ARTPOP" and definitely a good one. BTW: to change to "Dope" to make the Little Monsters her new must have or otherwise she'll die drug is a good shift... in my ears. A good 8/10.
14 - Gypsy
Already hyped as THE new Gaga song, I must say that I don't think so. I mean I like it and it really is a description of what Gaga is living: the live of an always wandering gysy. And this of course brings certain problems. But anyways: the song is a nice ballad at the beginnig and then turnig more and more pop and classical Gaga. A really nice song about her life and a perfect 9/10.
"ARTPOP" has been described as a night at a club, a musical journey and an experience in whole. And ehat usually comeas after such things is "Applause". A perfect album closer, since it goes iout with a big big bang! I have reviewed the song already, and you should not hesitate to read the review here. A very solid 8/10.
In summary: "ARTPOP" is a damn good album that really shows Gaga's abilities as an artist. The songs s´might not be tht chart friendly and radio playable to some points but it is more experimental then ever! With "ARTPOP" Gaga has proven to be in it for the long run and that she can combine genres, art and pop, pop and art, sex sells and feminism, self referencing and hommage and has given us a hell lot to be excited about with it. Is "ARTPOP" the best pop album since Michael Jacksons"Thriller"? Well, it sure has all the potential for it, but time has to show this. Is "ARTPOP" better than her previous albums? Hard to say, but as each Gaga album it is special. Pointwise "ARTPOP" has gained 129 out of 150 possible points which make it average at 8,6 points per song. And that is a hell of a lot and has beaten Miley Cyrus "BANGERZ" from the throne which had a song average of 8,4. So now it is up to you what you think and to Gaga, what she does with this amazing piece of music called "ARTPOP".
After two very different sounding snippets of her song "Venus" have been released, Gaga furthser teased her fans by tweeting three different possible covers or the single: all photographed by Steven Klein.
And we should start off the whole thing about "Venus" with the covers. As one can see: all of them are daring and different, and do not continue the white look of the cover from "Applause" and "Do What U Want". And I have to say that I really enjoy the dark side Gaga brings to the covers. In cover number one we have her with a scorpion on her face, and clearly this is a reference to Marina Abramovic an her portrait with a scorpion. She channels the version with closed eyes. What is to be mentioned her is the wound she has under her arm. Question is: has the scorpio cut her, and is this to be understood metaphorically? Cover number two is, if I am not wrong, a bat, which is beautifully lit an set in pose. Actually it is my favorite cover. I don't know why, but the composition is somewhat magnificient and daring in a dark and haunted way. Cover number three is Gaga, once more in the nude, with a tacco (?) in her mouth, which could be a reference to a meat eating plant. I don't know, but still it is fascinating. The fourth cover is the one that is displayed on Gaga's VEVO channel. There she channels Marina again, but this time her eyes are open and her face, including the scorpion is lit in green and purple. Either a very Warholian colour blocking or a remeniscence of the rainbow. Anyways: It looks great!
Now lets get to the song. The beginning is very dark techno club anthem like, and then adds a throbbing beat after a few seconds. Her voice jumps from high pitched singing to her dark voice saying the word "Venus". As she turns into her singing voice we get the Gaga we know, and very soon the sog jumpes into a twisty dark electronic pop song with all the classical twisted Gaga-ness to it, including some wierd, but absolutely genious sounds. The song in whole is building up all the time and is kind of unpredictable, which i actually prefer. The overall sound is dark and new, but definitely not radio unfriendly. But it is a more experimental sound then "Do What U Want" - fine with me, since the experimental Gaga is the one i am madly in love with. Lyrically the song contains a high number of references to planets, roman gods, love and sex. If "Applause" was her Botticelli piece then "Venus" is her reference to the roman goddess and all the myths around her. But lets have a closer look at what Gaga sings:
In verse one Gaga gives us all sorts of space, renaissance and mythica refrences: "Rocket #9 take off to the planet // To the planet // Venus // Aphrodite lady seashell bikini // Garden panty //
Venus //Let's blast off to a new dimension // In your bedroom //
Venus // Aphrodite lady seashell bikini // Get with me //
Venus" - That gives me some feeling of her "Applause" video and VMA's performance. Remember that seashell bikini? If not, have a look to the left! Before the chorus Gaga sings: "I can’t help the way I’m feeling // Goddess of love please take me to your leader // I can’t help I keep on dancin' //Goddess of Love! // Goddess of Love" - Uhh, I am getting the naughty vibes here. Go sexy Gaga! And as the chorus hits there is no wondering what: "When you touch me I die // Just a little inside // I wonder if this could be love // This could be love // Cuz you’re out of this world // Galaxy, space and time // I wonder if this could be love" could mean. So far we have references to Venus as a planet, the diety Venus and space travel. Verse two does not let us down, concerning the reference scale. "Have an oyster, baby // It’s Aphrod-isy // Act sleazy // Venus // Worship to the land // A girl from the planet // To the planet //
Venus" - Okay we have oysters here, with the mention of them being an aphrodisiac, and somewhere on the road here I get the feeling that this on eis going to be an erotic but hell of a lot disturbing music video! And Gaga even recounts most of the solar systes planets in the bridge, with a great reference to the fame her gorgeous ass has gotten over time. And I have to say that my "Do What U Want" Review supports that ass!
All together the song is experimental and sounds new in the realm of Gaga's music. So I am going to give it a great 9/10. The point missing only is due to the fact that one point the song could set its peak. But still, the eferences she makes in it, all the sexual innuendos and the double entendres make "Venus" my space age, renaissance insired sex trip to the deep universe. And what is nnot to love about that?
I love me some Iggy Azalea. And the reasons for this fact are uncountable. And in the light of her debut album beeing released this year (Well, at least we all hoe so. I mean it is up time!) I have made a list of my favorite 11 Iggy Azalea songs.
This list would of course not be complete with the comment that Iggy has the figure and body of a model. I mean look at her. Someone has either invented bio-engeneering to make her that perfect of she is just a drip of perfection. What is even more amazing is, that in the body of this swedish super model milk bun, the soul and rap talent of possibly a black woman lies. I mean have you heared her music? And to make it clear right form the beginning: I love me some Azealia Banks, but she really annoys me with her constant twitter feuds. Iggy on the other side is friendly and works on her music. Something that Azealia should do as well. But #NoTNoShade! Lets just start the countdown!
Honorary Mention - Burgundy Shit
A smooth urban sound, finger snaps and some genuinely good rapping. I just love that this song combines hip hop and R&B in such a smooth way. And Iggy's voice really comes out on this one, even though the rap part is kinda short. So this one definitely deserves to be mentioned!
11 - Hello Feat. Joe Moses
From her mixtape Ignorant Art Iggy brings us this banger as the second song of the tape. It has this cleas electronic sound what Iggy is known for and has her canstantly rapping about clothes, money and bitches. Best line: "These are Ferragamo, bicthes What the fuck are those?" Very shopping and buying oriented, a song that basically says: Im a fabulous bitc, deal with me and my Ferragamo shoes!
10 - Backseat Feat. Chevy Jones
Nice intro. And the the song turnes around ad takes the other direction. A nice beat with, what i would call eectronical bells, and a beat that just gets your head going u and down. The big surprise comes when the chours actually is smooth and soft. Annd damn, that woman can rap fast!
09 - My World
The third one from "Ignorant Art" in a row. That says: Get the goddamn mixtape! Iggy claiming her territory. Its her world and we are in it. She might be white but this girl got the balls of a rapper that has been in the biz for years. Even though there might be some basic rhymes in this one. But she definitely brings it with : "My world, my bitches, white girls team full of bad bitches!" Who says a white chick can't be ghetto?
08 - Bac 2 Tha Future (My Time)
Taken from her mixtape "Trapgold" Iggy brings us some hard rapping to a sickening experimental and great beat. Contentwise Iggy lets us know it is her time and she will take her opportunities. Well, that is fine with me! "My heart is in it, Im authentic, Its clear to see its my time!" - Best line from the song, that, btw, is over too fast!
