In Case You Missed It...Music Video Round Up

SO you all know I LOVE music videos. Turns out I missed a s%@t load of them during my brief hiatus, so instead of going through them one by one...I decided to post them all at once, starting with the oldest. Here we go!

I HEART The Wanted. My favorite new UK boy band. "Gold Forever" is a dance-pop gem from their forthcoming sophomore album. Written and produced by Steve Mac and co-written by Wayne Hector and Claude Kelly the song was the official 2011 Comic Relief Charity single. The single debuted at #3 on the UK Singles chart, going on to become the band's third top-ten hit. Featuring remixes by Steve Smart & Westfunk, and Moto Blanco the single is destined to be a dance club hit as well. The fun video premiered in early March and was filmed on the same set as The King's Speech. Check out the boys and their cute clown noses above. Darling!  Look out for single #2, "Lightning," written by another favorite of mine, Mr. Ed Drewett.

"Gone" (AKA Dilemma Pt. 2) is the latest single from U.S. rapper Nelly's 5.0 album. "Gone" was written by Eric Goody II, Cornell Haynes, Earl Hood, Rico Love and Jim Jonsin (and produced by the latter two). In the Marc Klasfeld-directed video, Kelly Rowland reprises her role as Nelly's love interest, a role she first played in the video for his 2002 hit single, "Dilemma." While not as catchy as "Dilemma" it's nice to see Kelly and Nelly back together again. To date, the song has peaked at #59 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

"I'll Take Care Of You" is the latest single to be lifted off of American Soul artist Gil Scott-Heron's new album, We're New Here. We're New Here is actually a remixed album, produced by Jamie xx (of The xx). Scott-Heron's album was called I'm New Here, and is predominantly a blues and spoken-word album, like many of Scott-Heron's previous albums. Jamie xx seems to infuse electronic-elements into the original material seamlessly. The emotional, beautiful video for "I'll Take Care Of You" was directed by JJ Medina and AG Rojas and follows the story of an extraordinary young woman, single mother and boxer - Nisa Rodriguez. Playing like a mini movie, this stunning video shows the day-in-the-life of Rodriguez. Definitely worth a look.

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This & That: Musical Morsels For You To Chew, Swallow or Spit Out

Thank GOD for Twitter. It's a great way to keep up with the latest happenings and news in the music world. It does get harder to pin down news the more people you are following (I am following over 1,500 people) but you learn how to sift through all of the fluff and pick out the bits that are important to you. 'This & That' is something new I'm trying on the blog, an excuse to not let all of these little tidbits and musical morsels go to waste. Some of them come from Twitter, some from other music blogs I follow, all of them juicy (not always good juicy). Enjoy a little bit of 'This & That.' 

Rebecca Ferguson, runner up on the last season of X-Factor has landed a deal with Epic Records.  The talented singer from Liverpool may have come in 2nd but she was first in my book. New label mate Paloma Faith congratulated Ferguson via Twitter: "@beccaxferguson should I be officially welcoming you? Tell me tell me? I'm so excited!" Ferguson replied: @Palomafaith hi I'm really excited! , couldn't have asked for better people to work with ill probably c u soon ;) xxx"

Cher Lloyd has been spotted meeting with mega-producer and hitmaker RedOne (Lady Gaga, Enrique Iglesias, Sugababes) in America.  It's assumed that they were discussing plans for the young pop star's forthcoming debut album.  While it's uncertain at this point which record label signed Lloyd, she did sign a contract with Syco (along with Matt Cardle, Rebecca Ferguson and One Direction). RedOne + Cher Lloyd? Yes please. {SOURCE}             

Speaking of One Direction, the third-place finishing boy band from last season of the X-Factor appears to be moving in the right direction as far as their burgeoning pop careers are concerned. The first step? A proper band logo.  The logo is fairly straight forward, featuring a black background with a white number "1" and a D with an arrow inside.  Next to the "1 D" is "One Direction" spelled out in red letters.  So are they "One Direction" or "1 Direction?" A bit confusing, no? {SOURCE}

Katrina Darrell (AKA 'Bikini Girl' from American Idol Season 8) has released a TERRIBLE version of "Big Spender." In the accompanying video, Darrell frolics around the beach, on a boat and in the club with a bevvy of half naked men and women.  While the vocals are weak, the video is actually pretty slick.  "Big Spender" was originally written by Cy Coleman and Dorothy Fields for the musical Sweet Charity.  The song has been covered by many but most famously by Peggy Lee and Dame Shirley Bassey.{SOURCE}

R&B singer JoJo is reportedly hard at work on her long-delayed 3rd studio album for Da Family/Blackground/Interscope Records.  While the New York Post reports that the songs for the new album are all "mastered & ready to go," JoJo Tweeted on Friday about a forthcoming collaboration with R&B megaproducer Rodney 'Darkchild' Jerkins (Destiny's Child, Jennifer Lopez), saying: "Grateful 4the wisdom, talent, spirituality + humbleness that makes @ONLY1DARKCHILD the brilliant mind he is . Loving what we're cookin up...." Hmm. Interesting. In September JoJo released her first mix-tape exclusively to Rap-Up.com and if that material is any indication of what JoJo is working on then we have a lot to look forward to.

14-year old Dionne Bromfield is getting to release a new single.  The British singer, who is signed to Godmother Amy Winehouse's Lioness Records, released her debut album in 2009.  The album peaked at #33 on the UK Album Charts and her debut single, a cover of The Shirelles' "Mama Said" peaked at #43. While her first album was a compilation of Motown cover songs, the new record features original material.  First single,  "Yeah Right" features Atlantic Recording Artist Rapper (and son of of Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons, one of the founding members of influential hip hop group Run–D.M.C.)  Diggy Simmons.  According to Bromfield (via Twitter) they shot the video for the single last Friday. Expect it to premiere before the single is released on March 20th.

Anyone remember the boy band O-Town?  Here's a quick refresher...the band released two albums in the early 2000s (the first of which reached #5 on the Billboard 200) and 2 top ten singles ("Liquid Dreams" and "All Or Nothing"). After their second album failed to make an impression on the charts they were dropped by J Records and the boys went their separate ways. Ashley Parker Angel went on to have a semi successful solo career, while the other band members faded into relative obscurity...until now.  According to TMZ 4 of the 5 original O-Town members (minus Parker Angel) have gotten back together and are in the process of recording the first new O-Town album since 2002's O2.  Hey I think they have a shot.  Take That did alright without Robbie Williams right? {SOURCE}

I love Mashups, especially when done well. Case in point, check out one of my favorites featuring La Roux, Robyn, Whitney Houston and Taylor Swift. Now for my latest obsession.  Leave it to Perez Hilton to find a brilliant bit of pop fun like this.  Not sure who created this Mashup but it's awesome. The mashup uses Britney Spears' "Hold It Against Me," Kat Graham's "Sassy" and Adele's "Rolling In The Deep." In one word...Amazing. {SOURCE}

I have always loved me some Blake Lewis and this new video featuring Lewis with buddy and collaborator BT further solidifies his place in my list of favorite Idol Alums.  To hear Lewis in his beatboxin' element, check out this new video for his original song, "She Loves The Way," produced by BT.  Lewis first performed "She Loves The Way" on the American Idols Live! Tour back in 2007 becoming the first Idol alum to sing an original song on the Idol tour.  This video is set to the Beatbox Stutter Edit Mix of the song and was made using a MacBook Pro, "the iSight, BT's Stutter Edit plugin, Loop Pedals, a Kaoss Pad and KJ Sawka on drums." Brilliant! According to Lewis on his YouTube channel, "3 live takes at London Bridge studios in Seattle, Washington is all it took for BT to take my song and make a kickass example of how Stutter Edit can be used with video." Watch the video HERE.

Well this is unexpected.  Swedish electro-pop Goddess Robyn is releasing a new single off of her fabulous, critically acclaimed Body Talk album.  Co-penned by Robyn and Klas Åhlundm, "Call Your Girlfriend" will be released as the follow up to Robyn's last single, "Indestructible," which peaked at #4 on the Swedish singles charts.  According to Robyn, fans can expect the accompanying video will be released in "probably February or March."  Can't wait for some new Robyn!  Robyn's "Dancing On My Own" was nominated for a 'Best Dance Recording' Grammy so look out to see if she wins when the Grammy's air on February 13th. {SOURCE}

You may remember when Travis Garland performed his debut solo single, the Danja-produced "Believe" on American Idol in May of last year.  Prior to his solo debut Garland was the lead singer of NLT, an American boy band that also featured Kevin McHale, now of Glee fame.  The band released 4 singles and were scheduled to release their debut album however it never materialized on the group disbanded. Promoted heavily be Perez Hilton, Garland's Idol performance was supposed to be the catalyst Garland needed to launch him into solo stardom but that never happened.  Signed to Interscope/Geffen Records the singer/songwriter is supposedly working on his debut album, due out sometime this year, although details are sketchy at best.  As of January 11th, fans can download a free 5-track EP called Last Man Standing.  Get that HERE. It's a nice place holder while we await Garland's next move.

Looks like Ke$ha's next single off of Cannibal has been selected.  Fans can expect to hear "Blow" on the radio starting February 8th.  The Dr. Luke/Max Martin/Benny Blanco-produced electro-stomper is typical Ke$ha in that her voice is auto-tuned to shit.  The jury's still out on whether or not this single's any good.  The Prophet appropriately labels it "Take it Off" Part 2 and I can't say that I disagree. Ke$ha's latest release, the mini album Cannibal peaked at #15 on the Billboard 200 chart. First single, the infectiously catchy "We R Who We R" peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.  "Blow" entered  the Billboard Hot 100 at #97 as a result of it's early promotional release.{SOURCE}

Up & coming singer/songwriter/producer/Duke-graduate Mike Posner has announced his third single and it's one of my favorites off of his debut album, 31 Minutes To Takeoff.  Produced by The Smeezingtons (Sugababes, Travie McCoy, Justin Bieber) "Bow Chicka Wow Wow" is the perfect choice for a third single in that it's a sonic departure from previous two singles "Cooler Than Me" and "Please Don't Go."  The closest thing Posner has to a ballad on the album, "Bow Chicka Wow Wow" is a sexy surprise from Posner. Can't wait to see the video for this one.  The single was sent to U.S. radio outlets on January 18th.  Posner's first single, "Cooler Than Me" peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 while follow up "Please Don't Go" fared less successfully, peaking at #16.  "Please Don't Go" will be released as Posner's second UK single on March 13th. {SOURCE 1, 2)

What's this about Joe Jonas going electro for his upcoming solo album? Sounds...interesting? Dare I admit that I'm intrigued?  This could make me start caring about the Jonas Brothers...err...at least about one of the Jonas Brothers.  Jonas, who's working with Danja (Madonna, Usher, Britney Spears) on a new project, revealed to MTV News that he wants his new sound to be reminiscent of Daft Punk.  Looks like Jonas is planning on riding the dance/pop wave straight onto the charts with this new album. I'm interested to see if he can pull it off.  According to Jonas, "I listen to a bunch of stuff you dance to, kind of electro-based."  Also working with Jonas on his debut? None other than Music Is My King Size Bed-favorite Frankmusik. AMAZING. {SOURCE 1, 2}

Another pop star going dance-crazy? How about American R&B singer Mya.  The "Case of the Ex" singer has recorded a single called "Love Is The Answer" and it was produced by Miami-based DJ, Remixer and Producer Cedric Gervais.  Wow. Can't wait for this one!  Mya, who was runner up on the U.S. reality TV series Dancing With The Stars during it's ninth season, promises lots of dancing in the upcoming music video for the song.  According to Mya in an interview with E! Online, "There is a lot of dancing in this video, but it's nothing like what I did on Dancing With The Stars. It's way more Madonna than ballroom." "Love Is The Answer" is out on February 8th. Listen to a clip HERE. {SOURCE 1, 2)

Musical Snippets: Erik Hassle, Blake Lewis, Ting Tings, Katie Melua, Helping Haiti & More

Tweet & Get A Free Erik Hassle Remix: You all know by now that I'm a BIG fan of the poofy-haired Swedish singer/songwriter Erik Hassle. Well, his label here in the States, Universal Republic is offering his fans the chance to download the Penguin Prison Remix of debut single "Hurtful." Simply click on the "Post To Twitter" link HERE and get the remix. It's that easy! Hassle's album is due out in the States this Spring. Those lucky peeps in the UK can expect remixes from the incomparable Wideboys, Michael Mind, FattyPhunk and more.

Blake Lewis - Heartbreak On Vinyl - The Remixes: While I'm a little bit behind on this, remixes are now available for American Idol Season 6 Runner Up Blake Lewis. As much as I enjoyed "Sad Song" (and subsequent remixes by Jason Nevins, Craig C. and Pilotpriest) "Heartbreak On Vinyl" has always been one of my favorite tracks from Lewis' second album of the same name. Remixes are available to download on iTunes right now. Giving Lewis the remix treatment this time around, we have Bimbo Jones, Chew Fu and LA Riots. Good stuff right here! You might as well check out the remixes for "Sad Song" HERE.

The Ting Tings Take SNL By Storm: While I rarely tune in anymore to see Saturday Night Live, I will tune record it if I know an awesome band will be making an appearance. On January 16th, the Ting Tings graced the SNL stage and performed 2 of their hits, "Shut Up & Let Me Go," and "That's Not My Name." Brilliant. Loved seeing them live last year. So good! Can't wait for their new album, which the band is working on right now in Germany. Oh! And congrats to the band for their recent Grammy Nomination for Best New Artist. I was definitely rooting for a Ting Tings win. Watch their SNL performances HERE.

Katie Melua Announces New 2010 European Tour, New Album Coming Along: Katie Melua's music is definitely more on the mellow end of the spectrum when it comes to my musical tastes. That being said, I respect an artist who not only has a beautiful instrument, but also has the ability to express herself so beautifully through her songwriting. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Melua live last year in a more intimate setting and hope to do so again. Starting this Summer Melua will embark on a massive European Tour that will take her to Denmark, Norway, France, Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands, Switzerland and the UK. For a full list of her European tour dates, check out her WEBSITE. The tour kicks off July 1st in Odense, Denmark. In other Katie Melua-related news, famous electronica producer William Orbit (Madonna) is producing Melua's new album. Orbit confirmed the news via Facebook and has been Tweeting about it as well. Can't wait to hear what they come up with. Should be interesting!

Sarah McLachlan Releases "One Dream" Music Video: Singer/Songwriter and Vancouver native, Sarah McLachlan has written, recorded and shot a new music video for her song "One Dream," which is being used to promote the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics (which begin with the Opening Ceremony this Friday, February 12th). The video saw it's broadcast television premier on January 24th during the 2010 AT&T U.S. Figure Skating Championships and Countdown to the Vancouver Olympics on NBC. Check out the video HERE and download the song on iTunes. Sarah's also busy with Lilth 2010, so check out the official site for another round of additions to the lineup as well as new cities added to the tour.

Broken Bells Premiere "The High Road" Video: Checkout the new Broken Bells video for their debut single, "The High Road." Directed by the talented Sophie Muller, this video is visually stunning and features the gentlemen of Broken Bells - James Mercer of The Shins and Danger Mouse - in all their glory. The single is available to download on iTunes now (free for a limited time). Check out the video HERE. The debut album is due out March 9th, 2010. Pre-Order the Deluxe Edition from the band's website.

Real Housewife - Remixed - Tracy Young Remixes Kim Zolciak's DBTFTP: Superstar DJ Tracy Young has remixed Real Housewife of Atlanta, Kim Zolciak's single "Don't Be Tardy For The Party." HOT HOT HOT. Remixes will be released digitally (via Ferosh Records) on Tuesday February 9th. The mixes will hit all digital retailers including iTunes, Masterbeat, Juno, Amazon, Napster, etc. Young also hints at a physical release at some point down the line as well. For those of you who want a sneak peak of the remixes, head on over to Perez Hilton and check out what appears to be a radio edit. Make sure you get your copy!

Stars Come Together for Haiti - "Everybody Hurts" Released in the UK: The Simon Cowell-produced Haiti Charity Single, a cover of R.E.M.'s "Everybody Hurts" has been released in the UK, along with a video. The track was re-recorded in both LA and London and features the vocal stylings of 21 artists including Robbie Williams, Alexandra Burke, Cheryl Cole, Susan Boyle, MIKA, James Blunt, Rod Stewart and more. Check out the video HERE and if you're in the UK, show Haiti some love by downloading the single.

Miscellaneous Snippets:

• Dionne Bromfield has revealed that she is in fact recording a follow up to her debut album, Introducing Dionne Bromfield. Syze-Up (Desert Eagle Discs) is one confirmed producer on the project.
• New Calvin Harris Single, "You Used To Hold Me" is out now in the UK. On the remix, we have the uber-talented Laidback Luke. Check out the video HERE.
  
• Good news Kimberley Locke fans! We can expect her new single (via Curb Records) on March 16th. It's called "Strobe Light" and it's produced by Randy Jackson.
• New single artwork from Evanescence, Heidi Montag, Norah Jones, P!nk, Jamie Cullum, Ellie Goulding, V.V. Brown, Mariah Carey, Fantasia, Whitney Houston, Guy Sebastian, Toni Braxton (#1 & #2), Natalie Bassingthwaighte, Jedward, JLS (#1 & #2) and Goldfrapp
• New album artwork from Usher, Boyzone, Ellie Goulding, Justin Bieber, Ricki-Lee, Amy MacDonald, Goldfrapp
  

Blake Lewis to Release "Heartbreak On Vinyl" as Second Single

Blake Lewis has always been one of my favorite male American Idol alums. He might not be as strong vocally as Clay Aiken or Adam Lambert but he has what a lot of the other Idols don't - uniqueness. I think that many of the other Idol cast offs were so easily pigeonholed into one specific genre of music because they lacked a unique style. They were able to sing the particular genre of music that the label wanted them to sing. It seemed to me that Lewis' debut album, Audio Day Dream was more in line with his overall musical direction - focusing on electro-dance and house music. Sure, Audio Day Dream was as flawed as any Idol debut, but it still allowed Blake Lewis some room for creativity (i.e. - beatboxing) which is more than can be said for the debut albums from many other former-Idols.

I can't say I was shocked when Lewis left Arista, but when I learned that he had joined up with Tommy Boy for his follow up record, I couldn't have been more excited. Tommy Boy seems to be the PERFECT home for Lewis and I absolutely love the new record. It's everything that Audio Day Dream wanted to be but couldn't. First single, "Sad Song" was good but not what I was hoping for from his new album. Remixes by Craig C., Jody den Broeder and Jason Nevins changed my perception slightly, even going on to peak at #11 on the Billboard Dance chart.Lewis announced at the end of last month that his second single would be the title track, "Heartbreak On Vinyl," I did a little happy dance. "Heartbreak On Vinyl" was one of the standouts for me, ever since the first listen. What's more exciting is that we can expect remixes from Bimbo Jones, LA Riots and Chew Fu. Fanclub members can hear the new tracks when they first premiere. The songs will also appear on Blake's Opendisc page which can be accessed when you insert his CD into your computer. Go buy Heartbreak On Vinyl. You won't be disappointed!

Check out Blake Lewis on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter

New Music Purchases

While in Chicago this weekend I stopped at my local Best Buy and picked up a few essentials. On the music front, I opted for the brand new Blake Lewis album, Heartbreak On Vinyl as well as the new Madonna 2-disc compilation, Celebration. I am wishing I had purchased the recent Kylie remix compilation, Boombox, but perhaps next time. The Madonna disc was $22.00! Yikes! Blake Lewis was on sale for $7.99. Not too shabby.

I am impressed with Blake's album so far. Since he left Arista and joined forces with Tommy Boy, he released first single Sad Song and the rest of the album falls in line with that dance/pop style that I love so much right now. I honestly think that Tommy Boy is the right home for Blake at the moment. The album features solid production from the likes of S*A*M & Sluggo, Carl Ryden, Rodney Jerkins, Dave Audé, Blake himself and others. I've always loved Blake so I hope he at least has some success on the dance charts with this album.

Check out Blake Lewis on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter

This purchase was a bit impulsive, especially considering I already have most of the other songs on CD. I was going to buy the single disc version Madonna's final album for Warner Brothers but it didn't contain "Revolver," the Lil' Wayne track. All in all, I'm happy that I bought the disc. I still want to get the DVD with all of the videos. I will have to save that for another day and another dollar (or $20).

Check out Madonna on the web:

Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//YouTube

New Album Art Wednesday!

You know me and album artwork by now. I'm obsessed with it. Need to have it. Here's a bunch of new stuff for you to scope out. Thanks mostly to Coverlandia.

Much to my surprise, iTunes was selling remixes for the new Blake Lewis single "Sad Song" this Tuesday. Featuring remixes by Jason Nevins, Pilotpriest, and Craig C, this is a pretty hot collection. It also features new album art with Blake actually in the photo. That makes it all better for me!

I've heard rumblings about Eva Simons but only just now did I actually listen to her debut single, "Silly Boy." Wow. It's hot! Apparently it's coming out in the U.S. on September 7th. Exciting indeed. The 25 year old Dutch singer first gained recognition in 2004 as part of the now defunct pop group Raffish - winners of the the Dutch version of Popstars. Now signed to EMI, she has her eyes on world domination with her sexy new single, first uploaded to YouTube in May of this year.

I was super excited when I heard that my favorite A Capella group, IU's own Straight No Chaser, was releasing a new EP. Well it's here! I guess I forgot...or thought that it was coming onto iTunes at the same time. I just didn't remember all the details. While it will eventually be released to iTunes I'm sure, right now it's being sold exclusively on the SNC official site. You have 3 options - "The Solo," which includes the EP in your choice of HQ digital file formats; "The Duet," which includes the HQ digital files AS WELL as the EP on a physical CD; finally, "The Trio" which includes everything from the first two options PLUS a free T-shirt. I chose "The Duet." I love it. So far my favorite is the boys' cover of The Script's beautiful "The Man Who Can't Be Moved." Stunning.

I don't know too much by Kid Cudi to be perfectly honest, with the exception of that bangin' club remix of "Day 'n' Night" with the Crookers. Regardless, from the interviews I've read and the other tracks that I've heard this is definitely going to be a hot album. Thanks to The Prophet for posting this album art.

I'm all for "world music." That being said, I'm more excited about the new Nelly Furtado English-language album (out 2010) than I am about her Spanish language album, Mi Plan (out September 15th) but I am definitely excited about ANYTHING Nelly Furtado. First single "Manos al Aire," and newer singles "Más" and the title track featuring Álex Cuba are all strong. I love Nelly's voice...PERIOD. I also am loving the Robbie Rivera remixes of "Manos al Aire" and can't wait to hear the Tiësto remixes that are forthcoming.

According to Coverlandia, this IS NOT CONFIRMED to be official...rather it's THOUGHT to be the official album artwork for the long awaited new English language Shakira album. I like it, whether it's fanmade or official. Shakira is looking fantastic these days. "She Wolf" is one of my favorite tracks of the summer so far and her album is looking like it will be one of my favorites of the fall. I know this will be a favorite because, working with RedOne, Pharell Williams, Wyclef and others AND because of the fact that she's admitted to having more of an electro sound this time around, how can this not be bomb? Tailor made for me.

New Album Art Tuesday!

While some might think that album art today as nothing more than iPod-sized squares, 100 pixels by 100 pixels each (which Hard-Fi alluded to with their last album artwork campaign) - for me, album (and single) sleeve artwork is one of the reasons why I still buy physical CDs. Here are some favorites that have come out over the past couple of weeks.

Frankmusik - Complete Me (Out Now)

While the album may have leaked before it's official release date, that's not going to stop me from purchasing it. Singles, "3 Little Words," "Better Off As Two," and "Confusion Girl" are good indicators as to what the whole album sounds like. Solid.

Madonna - "Celebration" (Single Out Now)

Unlike seemingly everyone else, I'm NOT all over this track. Sure, I downloaded it the day it was released on iTunes, but I haven't listened to it more than twice. Perhaps that's the problem! I think it's a grower.

Sugababes - "Get Sexy" (Single Out 8/30/2009)

I found this song addictive from the beginning. I love it! Sure, there are dumb lyrics (the entire Right Said Fred bit) but the beat is hot. The video is hot. The girls are hot...and the cover art is fittingly HOT. As if this wasn't a given...I cannot wait for this new album!

Mika - "We Are Golden" (Single Out 9/6/2009)

Mika. Love him. This is the first single and title track off of his new album, and while I haven't listened to it in it's original form quite yet, I'm sure I'm going to love it. There are already remixes by Don Diablo, Mirwais and Calvin Harris that have surfaced. Good stuff indeed!

Beverley Knight - 100% (Album Out 9/14/2009)

As I talked about before... first single "Beautiful Night" = HOT. Video for first single = HOT. Album artwork...well, have a look for yourself! I think it looks pretty damned hot! I love the red lettering up against her black jacket.

Mr. Hudson - Straight No Chaser (Out 10/5/2009)

Not gonna lie. I don't know who Mr. Hudson is...errr...I didn't until I posted the album artwork. The artwork just appeals to me. Apparently, Mr. Hudson is a British band (Ben Gunther Hudson [guitar & vocals], Joy Joseph, Rob Barron, Raphael Mann, Wilkie Wilkinson) signed to Kanye West's G.O.O.D. Music label and Mercury Records. Straight No Chaser is the bands attempt at making a "mainstream record," and is a follow up to 2007's A Tale Of Two Cities. I'm game. Consider me listening!

Blake Lewis - Heartbreak On Vinyl (Out 10/6/2009)

OK. My love for Blake Lewis is documented. Love the look of the artwork. Love the colors and the post. Like a sunset! I'm counting down the months until this album is released!

Artwork via Coverlandia & Covermania

My Weekly Last FM Chart

Here's this weeks Last FM chart, chronicling this past week in terms of most listened to artists and songs.

Most Listened To Artists:

1. Jordin Sparks

2. Regina Spektor

3. Duffy

4. Blake Lewis

5. Lily Allen

This past week, the new Jordin Sparks album came out. As a result, Jordin appears in both my most listened to artists for the week as well as most listened to tracks. I've been dealing with a bad cold/flu this past week, so the soothing sounds of Regina Spektor and Duffy were helpful in making me feel better. Blake Lewis...as I get ready for his new album, Heartbreak On Vinyl...I went back and listened to his debut album, as well as his new brilliant single "Sad Song." Good stuff! Lily Allen...there's always room for Lily! Her music just makes me happy.

Most Listened To Songs:

1. Jordin Sparks - The Cure

2. Jordin Sparks - Don't Let It Go To Your Head

3. Jordin Sparks - Faith

4. Brooke White - Hold Up My Heart

5. Jordin Sparks - Walking On Snow

Hmmm...turns out I didn't to the same song more than twice this past week. All of these songs I listened to 2 X exactly. Other songs that made the list include the rest of the Jordin Sparks record and the Brooke Hogan/Flo Rida jam, "Ruff Me Up."

New Blake Lewis Album Drops in October

I adore Blake Lewis. Lewis was the beat-boxing cutie-pie who was runner-up to Season Six winner Jordin Sparks. While his debut album with Arista Records, Audio Daydream peaked at # 10 on the Billboard Charts, his singles failed to make much of an impact on the charts. "How Many Words" hit #8 on the Billboard Dance Charts with Remixes by DJ Dan and Dave Audé. His new album, Heartbreak On Vinyl is out on October 6th via Tommy Boy Entertainment. The first single will be "Sad Song" and you can have the chorus sent to your phone as a ringtone now.

I can't wait for new Blake Lewis. The guy is super talented and definitely brings something unique to the Idol alum crew. I also happen to love the new "electro-dance" sound that he's bringing to his next album. According to USA Today, Lewis is working with songwriters, producers and collaborators including S*A*M & Sluggo (Fall Out Boy, Panic at the Disco), Dave Audé (Pussycat Dolls, Paradiso Girls, Girlicious), Rodney Jerkins (Lady Gaga, Britney Spears), and Jean Baptiste (Will.I.Am, Black Eyed Peas) which all sounds mighty promising.

According to Blake in his e-newsletter: "The new album is coming together nicely, I just finished the photo shoot with the greatly talented Myriam Santos (google her!). We had a blast and I got to shoot in my hometown SEATTLE! I can't begin to tell you how happy I am to be working with a group of people that believe in me and support my crazy ideas!!"

Go Blake! Can't wait to hear what's next from you.

Check out Blake Lewis on the web: Official Site//MySpace//Facebook//Twitter

Jordin Sparks - Debut Album

So far so good. That's what I have to say as I'm listening to Jordin Sparks' debut self-titled album on Britney Spears' label Zomba. Well for the most part anyway. Currently playing is an atrocious, over the top cheese-fest ballad called God Loves Ugly. I mean seriously Jordin...WTF? Save the depth for a book of poetry (a la Jewel) or something. But the other tracks...not bad. Am I still thinking that Blake Lewis' album is going to be better? Yes. Most definitely. But it's a good effort. It's a (mostly) solid, pop/R&B album. Slick production by StarGate and Bloodshy & Avant (Britney Spears) and Jordin's vocal talent make this a safe and kind of fun album. It's definitely heads above last year's American Idol runner up Katharine McPhee (the last Idol CD I was genuinely excited about). McPhee's album was a big mish mash of crap. McPhee's debut album had so much potential.

In my opinion, McPhee is far more talented that Sparks (vocally speaking...keep in mind that Sparks is quite a big young and holds infinite potential for growth) but her CD failed in the production department. It was just all over the place. Danja Handz produced much of it, with Babyface producing a track as well. I think a lot of people were expecting McPhee to come out with a Norah Jones inspired album...and that it wasn't. I mean I guess part of that was McPhee's decision...she wanted to appeal to a younger market. Fine. OK. But Jesus...there wasn't a single song on that album that was remotely close to having the hit potential of Miss Independent. Love Story was a pretty good single, and a good single...it just didn't take off.

Do I think Sparks' debut features any HUGE hit-worthy singles? Not particularly. No Air, Sparks' collaboration with R&B sensation Chris Brown is pretty hot but not hot enough. If this song does well it might be because of Brown. We shall see. I DEFINITELY thing a smart second single would be No Air. Hopefully Jordin can go on to be another American Idol alum to make a top-charting album. If this album doesn't chart, she has a good number of years ahead to hone her craft and find the right niche for her.

As a side note...the ONE song on the album where she shares songwriting credit, Freeze is kind of hot.

Blake Lewis vs. Jordin Sparks

American Idol Rant:
I seem to hear over and over again how "BLAH" American Idol was this past season. I disagree. I honestly don't know what people are expecting. They have diversified the talent base by raising the age restriction a bit...allowing for older, more rounded talents (AKA a lot of professional back up singers). They are allowing singers with unique and different sounds into the competition... A.I. has also produced a top selling country artist (Carrie Underwood), a rocker dude (Daughtry), and a pop singer (Kelly Clarkson). There have been a slew of moderately successful American Idol contestants singing R&B, Gospel, whatever Taylor Hicks is....and lots of pop. Fans though were bored last season! What does Fox have to do to keep people interested? I really think that the focus has to be on the music and not the spectacle of the finale and special "charity" episodes. Whatever Fox does, the numbers will be huge...but seriously...let's make it all about the music again.

Blake Lewis vs. Jordin Sparks:

Now. This season's winner and runner up. Let's compare. First off...compared with Taylor Hicks and Katharine McPhee? WAY more interesting! Taylor...wtf? Did anyone buy his CD? And Katharine...what a bomb! Some average, generic pop...blah!

On to Blake Lewis and Jordin Sparks. First...album covers? Blake wins! Cool looking! Nice colors...nice close up of Blake looking blissfully unaware of how cute he is. Add in some funky graphics there and you got a good album sleeve. Even the title is interesting and clever...AUDIO DAY DREAM otherwise known as "ADD." Clever. Jordin's cover is pretty boring. Boring grey background...boring picture of Jordin posing with a dumb look on her face. Jordin is pretty and she can sing...but what a bland introduction to the world. If she goes global, they better re shoot the album artwork like they did for Kelly Clarkson's Breakaway album...I almost bought the import just to have the better sleeve art.

Now...the single. Blake wins! Jordin Sparks' single "Tattoo" just isn't doing it for me. I don't know if it's the production or the song itself. There's no question...Jordin has talent. I just think the song is a disappointment, and the lacklustre video doesn't help to sway me at all. It's definitely possible for a reality show to produce a good first POP single. Case in point...Kelly Clarkson's "Miss Independent" was hot! And who says it HAS to be a club banger!? X-Factor over in the UK has Leona Lewis, already a chart-topper in her native land, is waiting in the wings over here in the States (set to drop her album in the first quarter of 2008). "Bleeding Love," a ballad...is GORGEOUS! "Tattoo" is...not. It's kind of a dud. And considering Stargate did the producing...it's a huge disappointment. "Break Anotha" is fun and is clearly ALL Blake. There's a part of his personality from AI in the song...AND he includes some of his signature beat boxing style! Check out his official MySpace for the clip.

Now don't get me wrong. I have faith in Jordin Sparks. I know she can bring it. I'm just being honest. I am more excited about Blake's CD. December 4th can't come soon enough!

Albums Drop Dates:

Jordin Sparks - Jordin Sparks (out November 20th)

Blake Lewis - Audio Day Dream (out December 4th)