Kelly Clarkson - "Piece By Piece" ALBUM REVIEW

It's been a few years since we got a proper studio album from the original American Idol, Kelly Clarkson. Sure, the Christmas album was a thing that happened, but I honestly never got around to hearing it. Her last album Stronger was okay, but as per usual, it featured plenty of filler content and a few songs obviously intended as singles.

It happens. The record labels want a few really poppy songs that they can market easily, and they're probably extras cautious with Clarkson after the lukewarm response to 2007's My December, which many praise as her best work but, you guessed it, didn't really have a hit single. 

With Piece By Piece, we find the superstar back for another album full of pop rock jams, ballads, and electronic elements, to give her music a modernized feel. Are there some halfway decent songs on the album? Sure. Lead single "Heartbeat Song" is harmless pop fun, with a strong enough hook that succeeds because Clarkson is, of course, a talented vocalist. The only problem? It's not exactly blasting off at the speed of light on the charts, a trend I've noticed among artists who saw tons of success throughout the mid 2000's. 

Daughtry, Nickelback, The Fray...I could go on, but you get the point. People have moved on to new things. Clarkson has managed to hold her ground more than most of her pop music peers through the years, even scoring a #1 single on her last record in 2011. The problem with her new record is that I don't hear a smash hit on the album. Not that she has to have one, but most of these songs feel very basic and predictable at their core. 

There are a few unexpected moments that I'm enjoying, such as the EDM influenced "Take You High", which actually manages to pull off a bass drop and vocal distortion without sounding super obnoxious and cheesy. 

"Dance With Me" is a pleasant piece of pop that sparkles with enough of Clarkson's persona to make it succeed. 

The album gets bogged down with a large amount of slower, more atmospheric and moody tracks, including a collaboration with John Legend on "Run Run Run", a cover of a hit song by German group Tokio Hotel. I honestly expected more in terms of the instrumentals on the album, especially with the likes of Greg Kurstin producing and writing on the album.

If I said this album was engaging and entertaining, I'd be lying. It's passable as a pop rock album from a once mega-popstar, but nothing more than that to me. If you'd like to see any more of my reviews, you can always check out my YouTube channel where I post multiple video reviews every week. 

"Piece By Piece"
RCA Records
Released Febraury 27th in the US
Album rating: 2.5/5 

-Jon from ARTV
 






 

Top 15 Albums of 2014! (ARTV)

It's hard to believe that 2014 is almost a thing of the past. But then again, I say that with every passing year. 2014 was a noticably weaker year for music, but there were definitely still some amazing releases. Keep in mind that this is MY list so I don't want to hear any of the "where the hell are The War on Drugs and Perfume Genius?" comments. 

I did a video about not having to love what the critics love, which also applies to me as a critic. I often don't love what the biggest critics out there love, and that's what makes ARTV different. So to anyone upset that The some of the biggest underground artists with tons of acclaim won't necessarily be appearing on my list... sorry for having personal preferences and opinions? (have sarcasm land on screen) 

You might also be surprised that some of my highest rated albums didn't land on the list, and some of the ones I might have initially rated lower have worked their way up the ranks over time. It happens. Some albums just don't stick with you like you think they will, and others only tighten their grip with each play. Okay, let's get this thing started!

#15:  Gerard Way - "Hesitant Alien"

Gerard Way unleashes his inner distortion all over his debut solo LP, and the results were hard to deny. While Way seems much more enthusiastic and uh, happy, if you will, he doesn't lose the spunk and attitude that made him one of the most charismatic front-men of the alternative movement of the mid 2000's. Cuts like "Action Cat" show off a noisy rock style that succeeds in keeping the vocals and the guitars at similar volume levels, while other key areas like "Drugstore Perfume" pay tribute to the 80's with effects pedals galore and a heartfelt lyrical approach. The album rarely gets off track, which makes for a smooth listen with a lot of cuts you can sink your teeth into.

#14: Interpol - "El Pintor"

I was honestly surprised at how much I ended up loving the newest offering from the New York rockers Interpol. Their last album, a self titled effort, didn't have much of a shelf life to it because there wasn't very much interesting content there in the first place, to be blunt. El Pintor finds the group one member short, but sounding the strongest they have since 2002's Turn on the Bright Lights. Guitarist Daniel Kessler hits us with some slick and pounding guitar riffs that have a very unique vibe about them, slicing their way through highlights such as "Twice As Hard" and "My Desire". It helps that Paul Banks feels much more invested and earnest with his vocal performances throughout the record, compared to some of his lackluster performances over the last pair of records. Congrats Interpol, it's good to have you back on track.

#13: St. Vincent - Self Titled

I checked out this record after hearing a few of my viewers speak highly of it. Sure, I had heard a few cuts from St. Vincent in the past, but I didn't remember any of them striking me as something I absolutely HAD to hear more of. The self titled record begs to differ. It's not the St. Vincent has ditched the whole 'art rock' label, but rather she's incorporated that mood into her most accessible effort to date. There's a light and reflective mood on highlights like "I Prefer Your Love" and the truly spectacular "Prince Johnny", while synthesizers, guitars, and a more upbeat attitude carry the gems like the brooding but venomous "Rattlesnake" and single "Birth In Reverse". You'd be doing yourself a disservice if you miss out on hearing the latest record from Miss Annie Clark.

#12: Bayside - "Cult"

To everyone who thinks the modern pop punk scene is dying, you clearly haven't heard of a band called Bayside. They've been Warped Tour mainstays for roughly a decade, and have time and time again put out GOOD albums that make the most of each band member's specific talents. However, "Cult" rose above even their normal standards of excellence and presents itself as a compelling piece of art, with big drum fills, explosive guitar solos, and a balance of angst-ridden vocals on cuts like "Pigsty", and the more emotionally in check jams like "Transitive Property". Through and through, this album is entertaining music with a good dose of staying power, as its stayed on rotation the majority of 2014 for me. 

#11: Nothing More - Self Titled

Originally released in 2013, this album was re-released this year after Nothing More, one of the most under-rated bands out there right now, signed with Eleven Seven Music. Upon hearing the single "This Is the Time", I knew immediately that I wanted to hear more. But what I didn't expect was an hour long rock record full of hard hitting attacks on the over-privileged, ("The Matthew Effect") powerful ballad styled tracks, and a nice incorporation of glitchy electronics on a few reprise styled cuts. This ladies and gentlemen is an ALBUM. There's an undeniable connectivity in these songs, starting with the album's opener "Ocean Floor" which climaxes straight into "This is the Time". Lyrically, this band gets all the awards, simply for not succumbing to the dumb stereotypes that modern rock music tend to stick to. They speak of not falling line on Mr. MTV, questioning the way we conduct ourselves on "Ballast", and tackle anything and everything on the monsters like "God Went North" and "Friendly Fire". If you're looking for a great hard rock album with a lot of depth to it, Nothing More is the way to go. 

#10: Coldplay - "Ghost Stories"

                                      

You wouldn't exactly expect a break-up record to be something that grips you so tightly, but Ghost Stories proved to have life beyond death. The death of a relationship, that is. Chris Martin explores the depths of depression on somber slices "Oceans" and "Always in my Head", without forgetting to include sparks of life in "Magic" and "A Sky Full of Stars". The latter of those tracks may be my least favorite on the record, but its certainly grown on me. This record is perfect for driving, thinking, and reflecting, three things I've done a lot of this year. 

#9: La Roux - "Trouble In Paradise"

Grab yourself a seat by the ocean, because the tropical vibes are flowing big time on the long awaited, and aptly titled, sophomore release from now solo artist La Roux. Five years is a long time for a pop artist to drop off the radar, but there was still a rather large fan base waiting for her when she dropped her excellent track "Let Me Down Gently" last spring. She certainly took a risk by incorporating more live instrumentation this time around, with a totally different goal in mind. It works so so well though, and I've got to give it to her. I doubted that I'd that interested in the comeback record, and I ended up completely loving every single song on the 9 track album, minus the closer. From the upbeat and downright chipper tunes like "Kiss and Not Tell" to the epic 7 minute banger "Silent Partner, I'll say this. Well done, Miss Jackson.

#8: Walk The Moon - "Talking Is Hard"

Walk The Moon BARELY made the cutoff for my year end chart, launching an official stream of their record the last week of November. This record has so much hook and appeal, it's impossible for me to ignore. A year end slot was a given for this album after roughly 5 or 6 listens all the way through. It's fun dance rock with spunk laced lyrics and attitude coming from vocalist Nick Petricca. They splatter their trademark sound all over the opener "Different Colors", and continue to take us through their journey from the highs of endlessly catchy "Shut Up and Dance" to the lows of "Down In the Dumps". It's ego driven at times, sure, but it doesn't appear to take itself seriously, and they've got more than enough charm to make it work in spectacular fashion. 

#7: Run the Jewels - "Run the Jewels 2"

Run the Jewels have blown my mind, showing me that I can truly fall in love with a modern hip hop record. Killer Mike and El P are the 2 MC's that make up this duo, merging hard hitting beats and loops with hard verbal attacks and truly impressive wordplay. Killer Mike is my favorite of the duo, but both men are truly talented rappers. The flow from track to track is impeccable, and the run times are perfect in my book. So many hip-hop records seem to feel the need to be 20 tracks long, with tons of features, long and dull instrumental interludes, among other cliches. This record does none of those things. And when the guests do show up, they make 'em count. Point and case, Zack Dela Rocha on my personal favorite "Close Your Eyes". The duo tackles everything from personal issues and relationships to politics, and it all adds up to make the most exciting hip hop release of the year.

#6: Beck - "Morning Phase" 

Mellow out, and relax with Beck as he sails through a dream world of love, loss, and inspirations he finds in the things that surround him. It's a simple, but graceful journey, and it demands to be taken by anyone willing to listen. Once you do, it'll be easy to see why I love this album all the way from "Cycle" to "Waking Light", the latter of those being my overall favorite.

#5: Linkin Park - "The Hunting Party"

 

Linkin Park hit back hard after a few experimental records, that were never by any means bad, but still seemed to be missing a certain spark that their first 2 records contain. I might not hold the same level of hype for The Hunting Party now as when I initially reviewed it, but there's no denying how great this record is. They get into a strong rock groove, led by cuts like "All For Nothing", "Mark the Graves", and the haunting closer "A Line in the Sand". The guitars are alive again, and the electronics finally take a backseat as Linkin Park strive to take hard rock back to the modern world. For the record, I saw them live and met them this past summer, and they are some genuinely nice dudes. Chester Bennington actually recognized me from my review of their record which was astonishing to me, but I guess you do tend to remember those who give your band's album a perfect score ;)

#4: Taylor Swift: "1989"

The crossover from country to all out pop was coming, we could all see that. But Taylor Swift's 80's synthpop is way more fun than expected, and is dare I say her best album to date. I've always been a fan of Swift. She's a talented songwriter who yes, does go through a lot of guys, but does it really matter when we get incredible songs like "Out of the Woods"? Didn't think so. I'm still cold-shouldered towards ill-fitting lead single "Shake It Off", but other than that, there's not a moment on here that I don't cherish. You're into ballads? Try "Clean". More bubblegum pop with a little kick to it? "Bad Blood". I could continue, but for the purpose of not sounding like a monotonous robot, I won't. Hate her still? Well she's got a blank space, and she's not afraid to throw your name in there. 

#3: Death From Above 1979 - The Physical World

What's 10 years when you're Death From Above 1979? Clearly nothing as these dudes breeze through these bass led dance-punk jams that sound like they could do it in their sleep. The guys don't miss a single beat, nor do they allow room for any throwaway tracks. The lyrics are laced with fire as they match the intensity of the instrumentals, which are filled with hammering drum rhythms and skillful bass lines.

#2: Royal Blood - Self Titled

Royal Blood are THE most exciting new act out there in the world of rock. I fell in love on my first listen, with "Out of the Black" commanding the listener's attention, and brings out pent up inner angst that somehow feels satisfying to release after each listen. "I've got a gun for a mouth and a bullet with your name on it" singer Mike Kerr cries. Hard rock meets up with some blues influences on cuts like "Loose Change" and "Ten Tonne Skeleton" while the bombastic "Figure It Out" finds a way to become the years most bombastic blast of energy in its final act. I'm getting heated just thinking about it, it's really making me want to go listen! But I've got one more album you might want to hear about before then...

#1: Weezer - "Everything Will Be Alright In The End"

  

Even Da Vinci couldn't paint my reaction when I realized that THIS was my album of the year. Da Vinci joke didn't land? Oh come on! 

Weezer's comeback album has EVERYTHING. Catchy hooks for days, extremely skillful songwriting, and the simplicity that helped launch this band's career in the first place. The more I hear the record, the more I appreciate it and love every single thing about it. Things that initially didn't sit as well with me like the whistling in "Da Vinci" and the lyrical content in "I've Had It Up to Here" are now charming and welcomed to me. The impact this record has had on me is huge, as it opened up my mind to the fact that old bands can still pull off new tricks. Some fans longing for the older styles of Weezer will find true happiness on "Ain't Got Nobody" and "Go Away", while listeners craving something slightly more adventurous will fall for the closing tracks "Foolish Father" and "The Futurescope Trilogy". One of the most versatile and well rounded albums I've spun over the past couple of years, it's got my undying seal of approval and is the ARTV Album of the Year!

The 25 WORST Songs of 2014 (ARTV)

Let's face the harsh facts. 2014 had some really crappy music. My name is Jon, I run the youtube channel ARTV Reviews and the side channel Beyond ARTV, and these are my picks for the 25 WORST songs of the year. Enjoy!
 


#25: Magic! - Rude

Rude became more and more insufferable with time, with its agonizing lyrics of a forbidden love, it's wanna-be reggae spirit, and a semi-awkward use of the word rude throughout the song. I mean... who really says rude that much anyways? Especially in the younger generation. Sure, we all know what it means, but would you say "why you gotta be so rude?" if a dad told you to stay away from his daughter?

#24: Beyonce ft. Jay-Z - Drunk In Love

We get it Beyonce. You're passionately in love with Jay-Z and your sex life hasn't died down even with a baby in the picture. That's no reason to make us listen to you making god awful innuendos about surf boards. I've never cared for Beyonce personally, but this new album is the most I've actively disliked her.

#23: Kid Ink ft. Chris Brown - Main Chick

DJ Mustard makes his first appearance on my list, (he's the producer, if you're unfamiliar) but I'll save some of my many gripes with him for later in the countdown. Trust me, I'll have plenty of opportunities. "Main Chick" is essentially a replication of the earlier single "Show Me". Both come from the same album, the same artists, and... you get the point. When you're that lazy, it's just a shame that people still continue to consume it. 

#22: Echosmith - Cool Kids
 

 
Echosmith aren't a talentless group, and I don't want you to think that's what I'm getting at. Hell, I enjoyed a few tunes from that Talking Dreams record. But here's the problem with their hit "Cool Kids". It's as bland and lifeless as you can get. The singer sounds emotionless as she forces out shitty lines we've all heard a million times like "I wish that I could be like the cool kids, cuz all the cool kids they seem to fit in." To add to it's woes, the instrumentation is flat and mundane. It's a shame that THIS is the song that took off for this group.




#21: Becky G - Shower
 


 Becky G is no stranger to my list, making an appearance on last year's Worst Songs of 2013 list. Besides the cringe worthy amounts of the word 'ya' and the horrible lyricism that feels like it was written by a 10 year old that's listened to nothing but teen love songs all her life, this song feels absolutely STALE. The instrumental isn't 'catchy' or memorable, which is probably why it had such a short lifespan on the charts. Looks like Becky's gonna need a shower to wash this stain off of her already sloppy career. 




#20: Future ft. Kanye West - I Won

  

While the rest of the world seemed to be focused on butts in 2014, Future and Kanye were too busy discussing trophies to even notice. Can somebody get me an exact count of how many times the word trophy was used in this recording? Future's auto-tuned vocals are obviously a huge minus, but add in a couple of grown men chatting like 4th graders about their 'trophies', aka their women, and you've got a terrible track on your hands. 

#19: Jeremih ft. YG - Don't Tell Em

SIGH. Why must we subjected to more of this? DJ Mustard, the official producer of YG, rears his ugly production once again on the smash hit "Don't Tell Em". Sound like several other songs you've heard this year? Yeah, that's what I thought. Educate yourself American. We're gonna keep getting dumb music unless we demand a change.






#18: Chris Brown ft. Lil Wayne & Tyga - Loyal

  

As Lil Wayne's career gets closer and closer to rock bottom, we get this collaboration with the foul mouthed, easily angered domestic abuser Chris Brown. It's clear the man hasn't changed at all, and if you believe all of the celebrity 'apologies' that happen, then you're naive. Granted, that has nothing do with the song, so I'll say this. You wanna hear a group of guys talking shit about women and say n***a for 4 minutes? Didn't think so. ON TO THE NEXT ONE!

#17: ILOVEMAKONNEN ft. Drake - Tuesday

People are actually loving this song. Should I be shocked? Probably not, but it's just another prime example of a mindless club song that somehow blew up. Will we ever hear from ILOVEMAKONNEN again? I highly doubt it, unless Drake decides to make this auto-tuned douchebag his new protege. Hopefully this dude's career takes a dive off a cliff, on a Tuesday. 






#16: Iggy Azalea ft. MØ - Beg For It

Copy and paste. That seems like the function of the year for rappers, and pop artists in general. Iggy Iggy had a huge hit with "Fancy", so why not re-release her album and include another one key at a time synth driven track with a different, yet somehow almost the same, pop artist to sing the chorus. Iggy thinks she's in control thanks to 'pussy power', her words not mine, and makes her man of choice beg for her attention. Is that really what the feminist movement is about? Withholding sex from your partner so that you get what you want? I hate the world sometimes, I really do.

#15: Pitfull ft. John Ryan - Fireball 

 

 Pitbull gets his western saloon style ready, and shoots and misses big time once again. It's no secret that I hate Pitbull and everything he stands for, so it's no surprise that one of his songs is making it's way on to my worst songs list. He said it himself, he doesn't put effort in to what he does. He keeps things purposely simplistic and downright dumb. I'll never respect any artist that basically looks at the music industry as a goldmine.




#14: Bobby Shmurda - Hot N***a



This isn't racist, it just needs to be said. Hell, even a few very respectable black men in power have said it. But when will younger black men stop thinking that a life of drinking, drugs, women, and drive-by's is the ultimate goal in life? If you watch the music video and listen to this song, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. It's not just blacks OF COURSE, there are so many worthless white artists and artists of other races that feel the exact same way. This year, it just happened to be Bobby Shmurda that made the song that got me pissed off. Strive for something more, and that goes out to all the artists on this list. 


#13: Rae Sremmurd - No Flex Zone

 This is the point in making this list where I really start getting frustrated. the fact that the rest of these songs are just so OFFENSIVELY bad. On "No Flex Zone", we get to listen to some no name teen talk a huge game, say a bunch of things that kids just shouldn't be saying, and not hit puberty. Can't wait to see where this guy ISN'T 5 years down the road.

#12: Jason Derulo ft. 2 Chainz - Talk Dirty

Jason Derulo went from making "heartfelt" love jams to a bunch of songs about sex rather quickly. And for some mind-boggling reason, that's proven to be an extremely successful move for his career that was starting to lose traction. 2 Chainz comes and delivers a laughable as usual verse, and then the honking and clunky chorus rolls back around to remind us that a song CAN be annoying in every facet of its existence. 

#11: Will.i.am ft. Miley Cyrus - Feelin' Myself

This track came out slightly too late to make last year's countdown, so you better believe I put on on this year's, if for nothing but to make an example of it. By now we all know that DJ Mustard is fucking terrible, and it's a given that will.i.am doesn't fall far behind. Put the 2 on a track together and throw in some laughable guest appearance from Miley Cyrus, Wiz Khalifa, and (gag) French Montana, and you've got something terrible on your hands. Will.i.am had about as much to do with this song as a bro-country artist does with writing his/her songs. That means almost none, get with the program people!

 #10: Meghan Trainor - All About That Bass

I went on a rant about this song not all that long ago, and for, I believe, very good reason. Okay, say I can look past this song's childish nature, it's annoying vocal presentation, and writing. It's the LYRICS and Trainor's personality that irk me to no end. As I said in my rant, she essentially discredits a healthy lifestyle, shames skinny "bitches" (we all know you aren't kidding when you say it like that), and further promotes the mindset that we're all inherently wonderful. Bullshit. You have to work every day to better yourself, and anyone who thinks otherwise is simply wrong. Some people who are overweight can't help it. It doesn't make you a bad person if you are. But facts are facts. Obesity is a PROBLEM and unless you want to put yourself at risk for heart disease and a long list of other problems, maybe you should take advice from your doctor rather than Meghan fucking Trainor.



#9: Ty Dollar Sign ft. The Weeknd & Wiz Khalifa - Or Nah

Is we turning this awful collaboration that's all about asking for sex and degrading women off, or nah? Rappers, please stop making songs based on vine trends, you know no one will ever really respect you. Tupac would be rolling over in his grave if he knew what the mainstream "rap" genre has come to.

#8: Nicki Minaj - Anaconda


If Tupac was rolling in his grave for that last song, then he's doing summer-salts from this abomination from Nicki Minaj. And the worst part about it? There's still 7 songs that I feel are even worse than this nightmare of a tune. It borrows from Sir-Mix-A-Lot's "Baby Got Back", and is all about butts and "anacondas", which is apparently supposed to be be a clever disguise for male genitalia. It's not. Minaj is supposedly a feminist, yet she raps about sex nonstop, and talks of how she let some random dude fuck her because he sold cocaine. THIS is your role model teenage girls? REALLY? If being a drug dealer is attractive to you, then you need to re-evaluate your entire life. I hate Minaj, I despise this song, and if you like good music, I'm sure you feel the same way.  




#7: Jason Derulo ft. Snoop Dogg - Wiggle

  

The hook on this song is played with a recorder. It's another song about butts. The lyrical content doesn't even try to be clever, and the production will make you want to rip your hair out ever time you're in a friends car, and they don't change the station when this comes on the radio.

#6: Fergie - LA Love (La La)

Fergie is finally back as a solo artist, not that anyone was demanding it, and she's proved with this new song that... she went to elementary school. Fergie goes down an agonizingly long list of cities and countries, and tells them all to say "la la la la la". Fuck you Fergie. For making this absolutely horrid track, that would be horrible no matter who produced it. But you just HAD to throw some salt in the wound and throw Mustard on the beat, hoe.

#5: Jennifer Lopez ft. Iggy Azalea 

 

This is a PSA for Jennifer Lopez. Iggy, you can feel free to listen in as well. Jennifer, you're 45 years old, acting like a rebellious teen with daddy issues. You made an entire song about "booty" because that's what's popular this year. I hope you feel good about yourself, for being a mindless slave to trends because you don't feel like your music could sell anymore without some sort of gimmick, and for the example you're setting for not only your kids, but for kids all over the world. Keep your clothes on kids, please.




#4: Play-N-Skillz ft. Lil Jon, Redfoo, & Enertia McFly - Literally I Can't

The makers of this song came under a LOT of fire after releasing this misogynistic party jam that centers around telling frat girls to "shut the fuck up". They quickly said "oh it's a joke please don't take this the wrong way!". Riiiiight. This song is PAINFUL to listen to. I only managed to make it all the way through twice, and that was just so I could reassure how high it would chart on this list. 

PS, Lil Jon, you're over 40. Maybe it's time to stop hanging out at college parties. 

#3: Big Sean ft. E-40 - I Don't Fuck With You 

 
 Big Sean attempts to get revenge on an ex-girlfriend by making the worst wanna-be anthem of the year. What a clever lyricist you are, Big Sean. Writing lines like "I don't fuck with you, you lil stupid ass bitch, I ain't fuckin' with you". Wow, what a mature way to handle a breakup. Doesn't at all sound like a 4th grader that just learned to curse making a song! And thank the lord DJ Mustard came in to save the day to make sure the beat sounded like every other generic piece of shit on the radio, phew! 
...I hope everyone's sarcasm detectors are going off big time, for the record.




#2: Fifth Harmony - Bo$$


Fifth Harmony tries to channel the attitude and glamour of earlier girl groups like The Pussycat Dolls and Destiny's Child, but fall so flat on their faces that they create a black hole of suck...suction I mean. Suction so powerful that I was almost convinced I had slipped into an alternate universe where only the most contrived and idiotic music exists; a place full of Fifth Harmony and their constant references to Michelle Obama, because apparently she's the only woman with any power in this country. I slipped back into reality and realized that I was the one in control of the play button, therefore the boss. I immediately shut down the song, and never listened again. THE END.


#1: Gwen Stefani - Spark the Fire


Gwen, sweetheart, you're having a mid-life crisis. Adding a bunch of weird animation to your music video and sing-rapping about starting fires doesn't make you any less of a 45 year old woman. This song leaked the last week of November, and I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It's been almost 10 years since Stefani put out a solo LP, and after hearing lead single "Baby Don't Lie" from her comeback album, I was wishing that her solo career had stayed dormant. But no, Gwen had to spark things up, and put out not only the worst song of 2014, but possibly one of the worst songs I've ever heard from a mainstream artist. I cringe as Gwen chants "Hey get off my cloud", with Pharrell Williams shouting pointless obscurities in the background of the song. If the point of this song is to get played at the club at 2AM when everyone is so wasted that they don't even know what they're listening to, then mission accomplished. If this was an honest attempt at making a pop song, then let's break this thing down. You've got a horrible instrumental, complete with messy synths and bass, some of the worst songwriting I've ever seen, speaking of "Omg omg and LOL's", and an overall desperate feeling that sees Stefani clamoring to stay relevant by using lots of slang and abbreviations to target herself at the teenage demographic. Go home Gwen Stefani, you're not just drunk, you've lost your mind.

Royal Blood "Royal Blood" (Album Review)

 ROYAL BLOOD. The band name I've been preaching to the masses since New Years Day 2014. Don't believe me? Here's proof.  See what you get for not believing your old pal Jon?


Anyways, what I'm getting at is that I just KNEW this band was on to something, something special. The abrasive and undeniably hard rock sound that lead single "Out of the Black" provided was enough to give me hope for the year in music. It's stood the test of time quite well, as it will without a doubt be in the top 10 of my 'greatest songs of the year' list.



WHAT makes them such an enthralling listen? Why are they suddenly the saviors of hard rock, or even rock music period? That answer is clearly found in the music itself. There are only TWO band members, a singer/bassist and a drummer. Yes, I'm telling you that this hard rocking duo doesn't even use a guitar, but the tones he achieves with his bass is mind-blowing. 

The most enjoyable parts of this record surround those beautiful guitar moments, that channel everything from Wolfmother to At the Drive-In to Led Zeppelin, along with smart and inventive lyrics that actually push the envelope in a year where mediocre has been settled for by the artists AND the listeners. I really don't want to trap them under a specific influence though, because more often than not, the sound can only be described as that of Royal Blood, a name which I hope that soon more will know.

I almost never pre-order albums, but I held on to faith that this would be worth my money and my time. Let's just say I was right on target. 

I think the only way to do this album justice is to go through and do a brief discussion on each track from the record, starting with the lead single, also the debut single from this UK band, "Out of the Black".

I've already praised this song numerous times, but I'm laying out my thoughts on it one more time for those who have yet to hear. "Out of the Black" is the best ROCK song I have heard in years. It's perfectly timed guitar and drum hits kick off this song with so much angst, that when the guitar and drums finally unleash, it's impossible to stop yourself from head banging along to the rhythm. Michael Kerr gives a powerful and angry vocal performance on this track (and throughout the album) which rounds out this bands sound. There isn't a weak aspect to them, just powering guitar and drums moments and solos, and a voice that engages the listener from track one to fin. 

"Come On Over" strikes next, firing off an assault of mysterious feeling guitars in its intro. The most notable pieces of the track comes in the aforementioned guitars, and it's rotation between softer and more restrained verses, versus an explosive chorus that packs one of the hardest punches that this album has to offer. The lyrics are very sexual in nature, which is why it's music video works so well.

I do have a problem with this record. I can't figure out which track I love more. Is it the song "Out of the Black" which started my love for the band? Or is it follow up single "Figure It Out"? The first time I heard this particular track, I could feel the hairs on my arms standing up and energy flowing through my body. Eureka, this band has struck gold. "Figure It Out" works so well as a whole, balancing a lighter guitar melody and drum pattern, before utterly destroying things (in a good way) in its final act. Kerr's vocals seem so focused and dark, like he actually IS sitting here pondering something, trying to figure out what his next move is. Remember that final act that I mentioned? Yeah, you're gonna wanna make sure you stick around for the entire song. Houston, we have liftoff. That bass gets put to work big time on the outro, and as it pummels with an untamed animosity, I sit here stunned at the simple fact that it's not an electric guitar playing all of this. Truly one of the best songs of the year right here.

Once we get to "You Can Be So Cruel", we start getting to the songs that I haven't heard yet. (Yeah, maybe I'm a pussy for caving and getting the EP, but how the fuck was I supposed to know when they were gonna release an album?) I highlighted this cut and labeled it as a standout for it's old school hard rock edge, and its twisted and passionate love affair lyrics. Tossed to the curb, and this guy is still coming back for more. Women and relationships gone sour are easily the biggest lyrical influence for these guys, but thank the good lord  it is NOT done in a way that even remotely feels silly or cheap.

"Blood Hands" is a slow burning fuse that intrigues me from start to finish because of its honesty. Kerr sings "there's blood on my hands" as a euphemism for the guilt that he feels from a certain situation, of which we know very little about. The instrumentation surrounding the track is really what makes things that much sweeter, in a sinister kind of way. This is one of those songs I would want playing on repeat if I ever lived in a dark mansion and had a cat sitting in my lap like my old pal Dr. Claw from Inspector Gadget.

Things aren't quite as splendid on "Little Monster", as the bass feels a bit weaker and less creative, a problem that we haven't seen up until now. It's chorus is, dare I say, catchy, and saves this one from being a total loss. I don't necessarily feel like this is a poor song at all, it's just not of the same high caliber that Royal Blood have shown us up to this point, and continue showing AFTER this tune.

I'm really digging the almost bluesy rock persona that "Loose Change" takes on. It's built on a very simple riff and light drum arrangement, but its true power comes in its lyrics. The song's intensity also hits a new peak in the latter half as Kerr howls "Stop playing god on your telephone", most likely referring to how so many people in our day and age think they're untouchable and anonymous because they can hide behind the modern technology.

"Careless" is a tried and true track that features some Wolfmother feeling guitars, and a message of despair that we've heard many times. It's not unwelcome here though, as we see Kerr in a negligent state of mind, battling against himself as he turns to his vices while attempting to put an old flame in the rear-view.

I'm picking up an ever so slight Tool influence from"Ten Tonne Skeleton", which has evolved in to one of my overall favorite tracks on the record. "Cut loose like an animal, fired out like a cannon ball" Kerr sings over an ever climbing bass groove that never truly explodes, though it doesn't need to in order to succeed.

As far as closers go, you can't ask for much more than what we get in "Better Strangers. A brooding guitar texture shapes up this tell tale song, warning of a femme fetale that ultimately leads one to disaster. Kerr remarks "I'm a thousand miles from danger if I make a better stranger of you". Well said sir.

5/5

Alt-J "An Awesome Wave" Album Review

Alt-J have made a name for themselves for daring to be different. Symbolism plays a big part in this band's image. They may be too dense or 'artsy' for some, but I find their broad range to be be incredibly enticing. There are two things that make Alt-J click for me. 


The first of those obviously being the music that surrounds this piece of art, full of rich but light flourishes of off-kilter of guitar work, skillful and precise drum patterns,  and vocals from frontman Joe Newman that are noticeably different than anyone else in the music scene right now. 


The other key attribute that makes this band resonate with me is their lyrical content. In a world that is so convoluted with cliches and set patterns, these men are making masterpieces that actually make the listener THINK. Each song has a deeper meaning, or potential interpretation, that what initially meets the eye. 

Prime example. "Tessellate" could be explained in many different ways. The song is so brooding and dark musically, led by a beautifully played piano part that mixes in with a sinking feeling of sexual desire and lust. To me, this song is all about that passion, and a potential love triangle. Newman sings "Triangles are my favorite shape, three points where two lines meet", possibly referring to how all parties involved are joined together by the mutual connection, but choose to put that aside, even if just for one passionate night. 

I can't stress to you enough the importance of dissecting the lyrical messages hidden in some of these songs, just because of the fact that it WILL change the way you look at these tracks, which are doused in sarcasm, lust, and even greed. I'm not saying that a casual listener can't just throw on tracks like "Bloodflood" or even "Fitzpleasure" and not enjoy them, since they most likely will. But mainly for the music, and I can't say I would blame you if you want to go that route since the sounds are so pleasant.

I was hooked on this record's unique sonic style immediately after hearing the opening track, properly titled "Intro". You might be thinking, so many band's do short little instrumental intros Jon, how could this one be any different? LISTEN FOR YOURSELF! This track is absolutely beautiful. It's impossible for me not to love everything about this. The way it presents itself is so damn captivating, featuring a broad spectrum of instrumentation and unique and skillful playing. The brief vocal part we get on the track takes a stab at modern concert and festival attenders, before launching back into a guitar and synth driven angst that makes this truly one of the best songs on the album.

One thing I didn't know and fully understand right off the bat though was the shocking single "Fitzpleasure", which believe it or not tells the story of brutal and violent gang rape. The story's character, Tralala, is lifted from the book "Last Exit To Brooklyn". As much as I love the driving bass line and airy effects and vocals that make this song so memorable, I can't praise the lyrics on this one. At what point do they condemn these actions? When were they planning to step in and intervene, or even paint rape in a bad light? It doesn't happen, and it's a shame. I understand that this is an artistic piece and a supposed representation of one just standing at the window, looking in on what's happening, but still. Not cool Alt-J.

"Dissolve Me" is a distinct song in it's musical nature, pushing forward with a synth line that supplements it's almost bright guitar and keyboards. It's interesting since this song is open to different meaning lyrically. The most common interpretation, which is what I personally believe, is that this track is about a troubled couple who rely on sex and drugs to get them through their sleep deprived and stressful life. 

"Breezeblocks" was another instant favorite for me, speaking of a doomed relationship that has taken a final dive off of a cliff, so to speak. It's bass line was the first thing I noticed, pummeling this track and really just dominating the spirit of the song! It's lyrics, much like most of the record, will not make sense to you at first and might come off ridiculous and outlandish. Just really sit down and think about it, and the song will start to make sense to you, I promise. 

There are more straightforward tracks on the record, telling of relationships struggles and personal dilemmas on cuts like "Matilda" and "Something Good". "Matilda" in particular has one of the more vibrant choruses that tends to come to mind when I think of An Awesome Wave. The light strums of the guitar sound so delicately crafted, and develop into something quite intricate as it intertwines with a distant piano melody during the chorus of the song. 

"Something Good" is probably my least favorite cut, alongside the guitar and piano interludes. Not to downplay these tracks necessarily, but I feel like there's an edge lacking to these three in particular. The rest of the record has something unique to offer with each song, these just don't.

There are tingly moments scattered throughout, sending chills up and down my spine as the instrumentals send me into another realm as I listen. "MS" in particular satisfies in this regard, striking me as one of the more elegant and chilling pieces on the LP. 

There's a decent amount of gospel styled vocal patterns that trickle their way in throughout the record, sending a message of cynicism to the listener, as this normally calming aspect in music is almost intentionally placed there to contrast the dark lyrical themes. I'm not saying this was the band's intention, but it's how I interpret it and I think it's a very nice touch. 

The final track I want to mention are "Taro", which includes the hidden bonus track "Hand-Made" which appeared on their debut EP.   "Taro" is by far one of the most intriguing cuts the band have released to date, making use of not only their standard instruments such as guitars and a string section, but a galloping cello and violin that add so much texture to this track, which is technically the proper closing track for An Awesome Wave. 

I can't say that there are many records like this one out there. It's always nice to have a breath of fresh air in a music scene that is more often than not simply passable, and nothing more. This album offers up more than the status quo, and even it's weaker tracks come off more intelligent and pleasant than say what the current market is offering us. If you like experimental music, unique vocals, and lyrics that will challenge your mind, then you need to hear this record, and check out Alt-J. Perfect score for me. 

I hope you guys enjoyed this review, sorry it took so long for me to get it out there, but this summertime slowness in the new album release calendar has made it possible for me to go back and listen to some albums I've been meaning to discuss. Thanks for reading, and check out my YouTube channel to see the video version of this review, along with 100's of other reviews.


5/5

-Jon, ARTV