TRACK OF THE WEEK - Die From A Broken Heart - MADDIE & TAE

'Die From A Broken Heart'…A country song traditional to its genre in sound is a melodic song, “black mascara off a pillowcase” may be some of the audience’s reactions to this song as it is a tearfully emotional song.

Maddie Marlow and Taylor Dye, better known as country singing duo Maddie and Tae, recently released a new debut single ‘Die From A Broken Heart’. 

This rather catchy, almost balladesque song is a calming alternative to the usual country twang. With it’s instrumental beginning and its instrumental end, the main focus is on the lyrics. “Mama the nerve” of the classic country music twang of the guitars, makes this song highly enjoyable to many fans of the genre. It’s calming undertone, makes it feel like the kind of song you’d have on your “sad playlist” for the days where you’re just not feeling the upbeat major scaled songs. That being said “my front door” is always open to country music, sometimes there is nothing like a country song, to “kick myself” into action for the day.

Would I recommend this artist/song?

If you are in to country, I would highly recommend listening to Maddie and Tae, there songs are highly enjoyable to listen to and for me there’s nothing like a good country song. As for this song, I do suggest at least giving it a listen to even if you’re not overally keen with country music because this song is a great alternative to slow songs. 

MUSIC VIDEO REVIEW - TIMEBOMB BY ALL TIME LOW!

Timebomb metaphors, mechanic hearts, time, S.W.A.T teams and a lovable tune. Wondering how all of these fit together? Well each of these can be found in All Time Low’s music video 'Timebomb'.

All Time Low (ATL), a 4 piece American pop-punk/alternative-rock band, from Baltimore, Maryland. Signed to the independent record label Fueled by Ramen which is one of the sub labels owned by Warner Music Group. All Time Low’s discography consists of 5 EP’s, 7 studio albums and 2 Live Albums alongside 2 individual released singles.

'Timebomb'. A single off of the 'Dirty Work' album, released by major record label, Interscope. The music video for this song, shows a healthy mix of performance and narrative making it intriguing for the audience to watch as, they are kept entertained and are less likely to get bored since there is different things to pay attention to and not just a performance or narrative.

Essentially, when filming this music video it is highly likely that the band used playback to make the performance shots authentic and have it synced so that the video looks as professional as possible. A reason that bands use performance shots in videos is to make the audio and visual link with one another, and to add a unique and personal feeling to the video. This is because the audience like to know who is singing/playing especially if they’re not already a fan. It is also unique, because every band is different, and have individual styles which helps be relatable to the audience as All Time Low are considered “emo” especially with some of their earlier music; meaning that the audience members who also class as “emo” may feel more of an emotional and personal connection by seeing them.

There is a fairly even split, within this video of narrative scenes and performance scenes. One of the first narrative shots the audience see, is of a male protagonist making something, but it is unknown at first what it is as there is a wide shot angle, with the protagonists back facing the screen. It is only known to the audience what the protagonist is making, a couple of more shots in. Was there inspiration from Iron Man within the narrative? The Arc reactor (or Electromagnet) that is within the narrative, looks almost identical to the one within Marvel’s Iron Man. However it is essential to the video as the electromagnet is a metaphor for the female protagonists heart. “I’ve got your heart, in my hands” is what is visually represented by this mechanic creation made the male protagonist.

The shot variation, range from close ups of the band members and the instruments, to close ups of the protagonists facial reactions. Then there is a variation of wide shots, mid shots and long shots to portray different things like background or actions. For example their is a long shot of during the end of the narrative scenes where the protagonists, are running on a roof top in Los Angeles, California because it is portraying to the audience the background, the conditions like weather as well as the action, of them running away from what seems like the “bad guys” or rather “villains”. Supporting the idea of villains, the Character theory by Vladimir Propps (1986). Propps’ theory (1986) suggested that, there are 8 different character types which can be found within storyline’s. One of the fictional characters including the villain as well as a hero and a damsel in distress/princess.

Additionally, near the end of the video the camera shows the narrative happening parallel to the performance, by having the protagonists running on the adjacent roof top to the band. It is captured from the rooftop that the protagonists are running on, that the band are on the rooftop opposite/next to there’s. Moreover, it is also done from a camera on the rooftop of the band, so that the audience see it from both perspectives.

Finally, throughout the video when the shots change some of them cut to the beat of the drums which makes it feel seamless because it smoothly transitions into another scene.

Are you running out of time? Do you feel like time is like ticking like a timebomb? Have you seen the music video before? If not then go check out the music video for 'Timebomb'. It does not disappoint!

Do not know if you will like All Time Low? If you like bands like Fall Out Boy, Paramore, One Ok Rock, Blink-182, Neck Deep, Sleeping with Sirens and many more, then this band is most likely for you! 

TRACK OF THE WEEK - "The Fire, The Dark" by As It Is

Ever held someone’s hand and it doesn’t feel the same? Well As It Is have a song all about it!

Hello Consumer,

Track of the week this week is ‘The Fire, The Dark’. A punk rock song that, is off a chokingly emotional, yet off an album worth listening to. “The Great Depression”. The newest debut album from As It Is.

This song, just like the other 11 tracks on the album, is a tune that a fan of As It Is, are highly drawn to. It is a instrumental driven song from he very beginning. It is a song that expresses “The Poet’s” struggles, whilst in the stage of denial. For many of the fans, this song resonates highly, as it is featured on an album that has the soul purpose of educating it’s audience on mental health. It is romanticising suicide and social stigma’s that the every day person faces in today’s society and has been done, in such a way as to, stress to the younger members of the fanbase that it is a pressing issue. Every life matters.

As tearful as this song can get, the beat is a enjoyable, foot tapping beat. It partly strays from the typical style from previous albums of As It Is’ however it can be defined as a healthy mix of all the albums, as there are elements from each, in terms of the sound. Alongside the obvious emotion through the lyrics in this song, it has been written in a form that speaks to the audience. The audience are getting “The Poet’s” story, through the song, the emotions that “The Poet” is going through, and the overall struggles that “The Poet” has to face. Furthermore, the memorable lyrics and beat are highly addictive and for a fan of As It Is or a fan of pop punk/punk rock, this song for sure would be a contender for the everyday playlist. It is a way of showing “me any escape”.

Would I personally recommend this song or artist?

To a fan of bands such as Sleeping With Sirens, Pierce The Veil, Green Day, State Champs etc, then yes I would. Personally As It Is are a personal favourite, they are four talented musicians who have a very devoted fanbase and incredible songs. For fans of pop rock or punk rock, I would also recommend giving this band a listen, because they are highly enjoyable, with a vast amount of slow songs and more upbeat, rather dancey tunes. 

But would I recommend this song? For me this song, is my favourite song off of The Great Depression album, with that being said it is a song that for me instantly gets me moving and singing, so would that be why I recommend it? Possibly one of the reasons. But there is no definitive reason I can give for why you should or shouldn’t listen to this track. 

As a fan of As It Is, I highly recommend, although I would suggest going to their older songs first before you venture into the new era that is The Great Depression, because this album is a little different from previous stuff, so if you’re a first time listener…go for ‘Dial Tones’, ‘Can’t Save Myself’, ‘My Oceans Were Lakes’ and go from there.

What’s next for As It Is? Well Consumer, I’m glad you asked. 

Hello Consumer, welcome to the new era of As It Is, I hope you enjoy the new album and check out if they are coming to a city near you, real soon!

"When will the voices in my head, just stop and let me rest" - Against the Current 'Voices' Music Video

It is not all smoke and mirrors. Just primarily mirrors!

Against the Current’s music video for ‘Voices’ released 28th September 2018, hitting over 1 million views. It is based in 1 main location, a mansion or so it seems to the audience as throughout the video roughly 9 sub locations (I.e. rooms) are used. Using a vast range of natural light, the video has used mirrors to depict the lyrics of the song, “If I look in the mirror will I see through their eyes?”

The ‘Voices’ music video is set in a modern style house, almost Victorian style although that is not certain as the audience are never shown the exterior. It can be assumed that it is this style as the windows are rather large and allow a lot of natural light in. This adds to the music video as it gives it a naturally lit vibe, instead of a synthetic lit vibe.

In the first 15 seconds of the video, Will Ferri and Dan Gow both stood either side of Chrissy Costanza, the camera focusing in on their legs only; they were jumping in and out of shot to the beat of the music to imply “the voices in my head”. This effect happens rather similarly throughout the video with the typography (text on screen) and with cartoon style drawings of circles and lines. Each circle and line as well as outlines was done using key framing so that it stayed in perfect sync with the pace of the music and each movement made.

Within this entire music video, there are a range of different shots like close ups and mid shots mixed with the odd long shot and wide shot because for the audience member, it is portraying a personal feel, making the audience member feel close to the members. Additionally this is also a way of interpretating the lyrics as the voices are up close and personal. Something that this video does throughout which is effective to the fact this song is a lot more rockesque, is cutting to the beat. Each of the shots cut to the beat which makes it more enjoyable for the audience, to watch as it feels seamless and syncronised with the music; enhancing the viewers attention as the shots keep the audience members intrigued. Moreover, Costanza’s spontaneous dancing sections to the beats of the music, fit nicely into the video as it gives a fun feel and a generally entertaining vibe to the song itself, because if Costanza can dance to the song then so can the fans. Additionally the dancing adds to the views enhancement of concentration because, it keeps it interesting to be watching and it doesn’t get boring to watch.

Finally near the end of the video, there are at least two shots that have the lens glare effect from the light, which gives the audience a personal feel as the member can feel as though they are there. It also gives off the illusion of bundles of light coming through the windows, beside the camera. It adds a natural filter to the shot without it being edited in.

Rockesque. Stylish. Entertaining. Fun. Those are just a few words that can be used to describe this music video, Costanza has admitted to fans that this music video is her favourite video of the 3 that have been released so far.

“Your fears coming true and now you ask” what is next from Against the Current? 

A new era, and one hell of a new adventure with Past Lives!

Does Olly Murs have 'Moves' ?

From being taught how to dance, to “making them blush” Olly Murs takes “confidence in myself” to a whole new level.

This overly catchy yet rather repetitive pop song song is a typical Murs tune, with an arguably enjoyable beat that sticks with the same chord progressions that Murs has done previously. What makes this song different? Honestly, nothing. Even with the addition of Snoop Dogg, nothing changes the typical Murs sound that we are use to hearing. Although this song lacks finesse, it can be questioned that it is one hell of a chart topper.

Olly Murs, 34 year old, British Pop singer previous to his recent debut single release, has announced his new album “You Know I Know”. It has been 2 years since Murs has released an album, this new album is set to release 9th November 2018, 14 new tracks plus a bonus disc of Murs’ biggest singles. On the greatest collection track list, there are hits like ‘Dance With Me Tonight’, ‘Troublemaker’, ‘Dear Darlin’ ‘, ‘Up’ and many more. Overall this album, has a total of 28 tracks, 14 per disc. Murs told Smooth radio in an interview that his new debut single ‘Moves’ ft Snoop Dogg “fits my cheekiness, my persona, my vibe.”. With this track, although it fits within the typical Murs repertoire, it is a more mature version of who Murs is now, compared to when he first started his career.

Snoop Dogg, 46 year old, American rapper born as Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr, got his nickname ‘Snoop Dogg’ from his mother because she thought he looked like Snoopy from the Peanuts cartoon. He began making music as a way of getting out of his troubled past. A few years into his career, Snoop Dogg began to branch out, and take up acting and become a reality star. He has been in several films including “Training Day” and “Starsky & Hutch”.

This typical pop song, is the type of song that can be expected to “hit the bar” on a Friday night down at the local night clubs, where they play the classic pop songs. Snoop Dogg, although questionable to if he adds anything to this song, his parts in the song seem misplaced and don’t exactly stick out in the track. It is almost as if someone has just said to Murs that he should add something new, and created a collaboration out of thin air. On the other hand, Snoop Dogg, makes this song a touch more bearable to listen to as it is, a rich beat and the kind of song that a true Murs fan could dance to.

Exactly, 1 month until the new album Murs’ is set to release. If ‘Moves’ is an insight to this new album, fans can expect a classic Olly Murs tune, with a more mature twist. It would seem like within the last 2 years, Murs has grown as a man and has portrayed that through the music on this album. 28 tracks, 14 songs that fans know very well, 13 songs that fans know nothing about and 1 song that fans seem to be enjoying. Just ask the radio stations, it’s played on repeat on BBC Radio 1 amongst other very reputable radio station.

TRACK OF THE WEEK - 'I Wish You Were Here' by HRVY!

Track of the week is something new that is going to be started as a weekly occurrence! This weeks track of the week, is 'I Wish You Were Here' by HRVY.

HRVY, formally known as Harvey Cantwell is a 19 year old, British, pop musician signed with Alphadog Management and known for songs like ‘Personal’, ‘Talk To Ya’ and ‘Holiday’. Its no secret that, HRVY has been around for a couple of years, but through 2018 HRVY rose through the ranks. With millions of fans around the world, and his rather infectious pop tunes he has built up tonnes of views on YouTube.

From the simplicity of singing videos on Facebook, to touring the world with The Vamps. HRVY has really been getting his name out there, with his music; especially being able to collaborate with acts like Redfoo, Stylo G and Sigala on tracks. With influences like The Vamps and New Hope Club, HRVY has begun to get himself bigger and bigger, and getting the chance to have his newest debut release ‘I Wish You Were Here’ on Capital FM.

‘I Wish You Were Here’ is a highly energetic, dance ridden song. “Let me make it clear” that the audience member has no chance of not dancing, whilst listening to this song because of the repetitive drum beat, and the enjoyable rhythm. This song is the song that you can’t help but want to listen to, “I wish you were here” to listen to this and see how catchy this song really is. Although this song is highly enjoyable to the fans of HRVY and fans of pop music in general, this song is an extremely repetitive song and could potentially get old after a while, if the audience member overly listens. However, in no way is the fact this song is repetitive a reason to not like it, it is still a very fast paced, high beat song that regardless of its repetitiveness is still enjoyable, like most other pop songs.

 

Would I personally recommend this song or this artist?

Yes. Yes I would. HRVY is a very talented young artist, who has a lot of fun pop tunes to listen to and he is getting bigger and more well known. Which gives the implication that if you’re into pop music, he is more than worth the listen. Sure, primarily his audience are a young, female orientated audience, who like to scream in higher decibels than anyone’s ears should ever have to deal with, but his talent alone shows that he is a rising artist, worthy of growing his audience. Especially now with the influence of The Vamps on tour and New Hope Club, who were arguably in the exact same boat as HRVY is now, they grew bigger within a matter of months, thanks to The Vamps and now so will HRVY.

Bronnie Hughes - EP3!

Local Wirral, punk rock, female musician Bronnie Hughes has released a new EP ‘Erase Me’. This is Bronnie’s 3rd debut EP, a 4 track album that has a bit of everything for all her fans. Tracks that are faster and high in beat such as 'Total Outcasts' and 'Fake it', to a slightly slower more mellow song such as 'Erase Me', landing 'Strange Tattoo' as a healthy in between. Rocking up in the charts at overall #2 for the EP in the UK, Bronnie has nothing but overwhelming love for her devoted fans. 

'Total Outcasts', a song that all the “geeks, freaks” and “kids in the dark” should listen to. It instantly gives a nostalgic feel to Bronnie’s other 2 EPs where her genre really shines through. It is a highly rhythmic song, that “every single freaking night” since it has been out, its been played. It is one of those songs that the listener just can’t help but dance to, because this song has a rather heavy drum backing, paired with a strong sense of electric guitar and something especially likable about this song is its build up in the introduction. People may “think we are strange” for falling in love with this EP but it is a highly enjoyable album that makes the audience want to dance. “You think we’re lame” but “we know we could runaway” from other people’s opinions because as a fandom we have an inspirational woman leading us. 

'Strange Tattoo', which is not as strange as some may assume is a healthy in between song to listen to. It is not too fast like Total Outcasts is, but it is also not as slow as the song after it called Erase Me. “After hours” of listening to the song repeatedly “I can never get enough” of it. Overall this song is a vastly catchy, dancey song with a fairly high rhythmic feel and a highly enjoyable key change in the final quatre of the song, which keeps the audiences attention as it gives them something new to listen to.

'Erase Me'. This song is the slowest song on the EP, with it still having the element of punk rock in it. This song however has more of a rockesque feel to it, and “I know it’s time” to admit that this is an extremely catchy, and a more emotional song on the album. “Please erase” the fact that this song has only been in the hands of the fans for 2 days, and it is already one of the fan favourites. Additional to the fact this song is slow, it is also 1 of 2 songs that is on this album, that is explicit. 

Finally, 'Fake It'. This song has “changed the attitude of the world” with its underlining rhythmic beat and its explicit words. Not only is it the other explicit song on the album, this song is also the only other song on the album to switch key just before the final chorus is sung. Which again, like Strange Tattoo makes it largely enjoyable to listen to because it keeps the audience drawn into the end of the song. It’s a song that the audience can’t help but dance to in some way, and many of her fans feel like “she’s a rebel now” after releasing this EP, because it is by far a fan favourite.

One last thing to note about this EP is it’s cover art. Now, it is no secret to fans of Bronnie especially not hardcore fans of Bronnie who have been here since day one, that her album covers are made by her. This EP cover like her last, was drawn up by her giving it a more personal edge to it. It is also a more girly take to the cover, which is unlike her previous two, with the light pink coloured titles to help the drawing stand out a bit, and also to add a bit of colour to the sleeve. Moreover, the hypnotic pattern surrounding the drawing of the alienesque girl, is something that draws the audience in because it stands out from other covers, especially with the black and white elements.