Matchbox Twenty - Push

"Push" is the breakthrough single released by Matchbox Twenty from their first album, Yourself Or Someone Like You in 1996. The album eventually went on to sell over 12 million copies in the U.S. alone, earning diamond status.

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Santana & Rob Thomas - Smooth

"Smooth" is a song by Carlos Santana and Matchbox Twenty frontman Rob Thomas from Santana's album, Supernatural. The album became a massive hit in 1999, spending twelve weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 at the end of that year. The song won three Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals.

Technorati Tags:Rob Thomas, Santana, Supernatural, Latin Rock, Music Videos

Rob Thomas - This Is How a Heart Breaks

"This Is How a Heart Breaks" is the second single from Matchbox Twenty frontman Rob Thomas' solo debut album, Something To Be. Released in 2005 the single peaked at #52 in the USA becoming Thomas's 3rd Top Hot 100 entry. This song was also used during the 2005 NBA Finals by ABC television.

Technorati Tags:Rob Thomas, ...Something to Be, Pop, Music Videos

T-Pain - Bartender (feat. Akon)

"Bartender" is the second single from T-Pain's second album, Epiphany. The song features Akon. The video premiered on Yahoo! Music on June 13, 2007 and features T-Pain dancing in front of a bar and flirting with the bartender.

Technorati Tags:T-Pain, Akon, Epiphany, Hip-Hop, Music Videos

Rob Thomas - Lonely No More

"Lonely No More" is the first single from Rob Thomas' debut album, ...Something to Be. It became his second big solo hit (after "Smooth", on which he was actually a featured artist). The song peaked inside the Top 10 at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at #11 in the UK.

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Rob Thomas - Ever the Same

"Ever the Same" is the third single from Matchbox Twenty frontman Rob Thomas' 2005 debut album, Something To Be. The song has been certified gold by the RIAA and became a top-five Adult Contemporary hit. The song has been used in commercials for NBA Cares.

Technorati Tags:Rob Thomas, ...Something to Be, Pop, Music Videos

Feist - 1234

Leslie Feist is a Canadian singer-songwriter who performs as a solo artist under the name Feist. "1234" from her third solo album The Reminder (2007), became a surprise hit after being featured in Apple's advertising campaign for its third generation iPod nano, which premiered on September 5, 2007. The song was also featured in HBO's promos for its summer 2007 schedule.

Technorati Tags:Feist, The Reminder, iPod nano, Indie Rock, Music Videos

Whispers, News + What's Hot & What's Not!

I thought I would take a short break from my usual mix of tragic divas and no hit wonders to comment on (ie. bitch about) some recent events in the glorious world of pop music. I think I'll start with the dramas surrounding Dannii's sister.

My Kylie Rant

Poor Kylie wasn't blessed with Dannii's stunning good looks or natural talent but I love her all the same. In fact, with the exception of her glorious sibling, Kylie is my favourite singer. And like the rest of Al Kylieda, I've been obsessing over the progress of her upcoming album to an unhealthy extent. It truly pains me to speak ill of a Minogue but I'm beginning to suspect a "Body Language" sized disappointment. Alarm bells started ringing when Kylie selected "Sensitized" for the album over several vastly superior tunes. Brilliant anthems like "Lose Control" and Mylo's delicious "In The Mood For Love" were passed over for a song that plays like a cheap "Cowboy Style" rip-off, complete with an annoying hooting sound courtesy of sampling this trash. If that wasn't bad enough, I fear that "2 Hearts" could be Kylie's worst single ever. The Kish Mauve demo sounds like Goldfrapp for the over 50 crowd and leaked clips of Kylie's version suggest she stays worryingly true to the demo. And yes, I know I'm being a drama queen. On a happier note, the single cover is AMAZING. In other Kylie news, the great one has covered Grace Jones/Roxy Music's "Love Is The Drug" for this Radio 1 compilation and her version is absolutely stunning!

Dannii Update

While Kylie appears to have momentarily lost the plot, divine Dannii is flying the Minogue flag in great style with 4 soon to be released albums, a new DVD and a brand new single scheduled for an early December release to cash in on X Factor. Rumours abound that Dannii is re-working a Jason Nevins produced club smash that heavily samples "Mighty Real". I smell Dannii's 12th #1 hit on the UK dance charts. Long live the Queen of Clubs!

Whispers

I'm excited to hear that Scotland's legendary Mary Kiani is hoping to release new material in Australia. I really hope things work out. Mary's "Sydney Sessions" album was one of the pop highlights of 2006 and I've been going through Kiani withdrawals ever since. Speaking of legendary dance divas, the orange goddess - Kelly Llorenna - looks set to release her first Australian single in years with news that Love To Infinity's "Keep Love Together" could be getting a local release! In other (old) news, lovely Jessica Mauboy has definitely been chosen to replace Ricki-Lee in the Young Divas. The world's most fabulous girlband is busy recording their second album of cover versions. I can't wait to hear the fagtastic crap the girls serve up this time! Speaking of Young Divas, "Love Is All Around" is the second single from Ricki-Lee's great "Brand New Day" album. The song is pure dynamite and the remixes are excellent.

What's Hot

I'm loving Jade Macrae's new single, "In The Basement". Jade has always been one of Australia's biggest talents but she finally has a song worthy of her talent. Expect to see a full post about Jade very soon. Another local act, The Potbelleez, appear to have a smash hit on their hands with "Don't Hold Back". The dance anthem is currently #1 on the club chart and ranks as one of the most added songs to radio this week. Don't tell anyone but I quite like Cosima's latest single, "Movin' On". Shame about the video clip. Moving on to international divas, I seem to be the only person who likes J Lo's new gangster anthem "Do It Well". I've had a listen to Jenny's new album and it is, somewhat surprisingly, very good! Robyn is always hot but I thought I might as well plug the Australian release of her brilliant album.

What's Not Hot

There's nothing hot about the publicity spree that accompanied the release of Dulta's latest shitfest, "In This Life". I guess a month of turning up to the opening of an envelope, TV advertisements and two CD single formats can still buy you a #1 hit. Dulta's new album cover (above) is as boring as you would expect. Speaking of has-beens, that old cunt from the Rogue Traders is back. "Don't You Wanna Feel" is rubbish even by their low standards. Go back to Neighbours! I'm also not sold on The Veronicas' new single, "Hook Me Up". I appreciate their move towards a more electro sound but where is the chorus? Time to go back to the drawing board.

Music For Wankers

Well done, Roisin Murphy. You have officially come up with the most pretentious album cover in the history of music! Bjork must be positively suicidal.

Kanye West - Good Life (feat. T-Pain)

"Good Life" is the third single from rapper Kanye West's third album Graduation. The single features R&B artist T-Pain will be officially released October 2, 2007. The video premiered on September 11, 2007 as MTV Jams' "Jam of the Week".

Technorati Tags:Kanye West, Graduation, T-Pain, Hip-Hop, Music Videos

Kanye West - Can't Tell Me Nothing

"Can't Tell Me Nothing" is the first single from Kanye West's third album, Graduation. The release date of Graduation was changed from September 18, 2007, to the same release date as 50 Cent's album Curtis, September 11, 2007. This means that the albums will go head-to-head and compete for better sales against each other.

Technorati Tags:Kanye West, Graduation, 50 Cent, Hip-Hop, Music Videos

Timbaland - Apologize

"Apologize" is the third single on the album Timbaland Presents Shock Value. This is a remix by Timbaland and the vocalist is Ryan Tedder, the lead singer of OneRepublic. The music video features the original song, which is slated to appear on the band's upcoming album.

Technorati Tags:Timbaland, Shock Value, OneRepublic, Hip-Hop, Music Videos

Matchbox Twenty - If You're Gone

"If You're Gone" is a song performed by the rock band Matchbox Twenty. It was the second single from their 2000 hit album Mad Season. The song, written by the band's frontman Rob Thomas, became a top 10 hit on adult contemporary radio.

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Matchbox Twenty - Mad Season

"Mad Season" is the title-track and third single off Matchbox Twenty's second album, Mad Season. The song peaked to #48 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #76 on the UK Singles Chart.

Technorati Tags:Matchbox Twenty, Mad Season, Rob Thomas, Alternative Rock, Music Videos

Matchbox Twenty - Bent

"Bent" is the first single from Mad Season, the second album by the rock band Matchbox Twenty. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 on July 22, 2000 and stayed there for one week.

Technorati Tags:Matchbox Twenty, Mad Season, Rob Thomas, Alternative Rock, Music Videos

Matchbox Twenty - Unwell

"Unwell" is the second single from Matchbox Twenty's third album, More Than You Think You Are (2003). Written by lead singer Rob Thomas, the song was very successful on the radio, and spent 20 weeks at the top of the U.S. Adult Top 40 charts.

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Foo Fighters - The Pretender

"The Pretender" is the first single released from the Foo Fighters' 2007 album Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace, released on September 25, 2007. The song will be featured in Tony Hawk's Proving Ground.

Technorati Tags:Foo Fighters, Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace, Alternative Rock, Music Videos

Insomnia's Fabulous Hatchet Job

If you thought the Bliss cover of "American Pie" was rubbish, then hold on to your hair extensions for Insomnia! This sublimely tragic Australian duo launched their career with an astonishingly bad dance interpretation of "Fame" in the late 90s. Not surprisingly, it flopped and Insomnia were never heard of again. Well, one half of Insomnia at least. Pop fans may recognise Kellie Hoggart in the picture below. For the uninitiated, Kellie was a member of the 90s girlband, Teen Queens, and now performs to snotty nosed children around the globe as a member of Hi-5. I hope Kellie looks back on her days as the front woman of Insomnia with great pride. Their one and only flop, "Fame", is a four minute musical trainwreck of the highest order. "Fame" has all the ingredients of a pop trash classic - tacky beats, thin vocals and dated production. The cheesy record scratching and manic keyboards never fail to make me laugh. As much as I enjoy the music, the thing I love most about Insomnia's "Fame" is the fact that it's such a relic of its time. You just know that a small army of Chupa Chup munching disco dollies waved their glow sticks to this stunning anthem. Give "Fame" a spin and re-live your glory days. Just don't wear that shiteous lime green number you've been hiding in the back of your wardrobe. It was wrong - even then!

Many thanks to Steen for reminding me of this masterpiece and sending me a copy! How funny is the Star Wars inspired artwork!

Kylie Minogue - Love at First Sight

"Love at First Sight" is a dance–pop single by Australian singer Kylie Minogue from her album Fever. The song was nominated for the 2002 Grammy Awards in the "Best Dance Recording" category, providing Minogue with her first Grammy nomination. It also won the MTV Europe Music Award for "Best Pop".

Technorati Tags:Kylie Minogue, Fever, Pop, Music Videos

Kylie Minogue - Slow

"Slow" is a pop–dance song and first single from Kylie Minogue's ninth studio album, Body Language (2003). The song reached number one in Australia, Denmark, Spain, and the United Kingdom, where it became Minogue's seventh number one single. The song also earned Minogue her third consecutive Grammy Award nomination in the Best Dance Recording category for 2004.

Technorati Tags:Kylie Minogue, Body Language, Pop, Music Videos

Belgium's Golden Goose

Brace yourselves for something a bit more cutting edge than the fabulous rubbish I usually serve up! It's been a while since I had a guest contributor but it's definitely been worth the wait. When Jay first introduced me to Goose, I thought they sounded like every other electro act doing the rounds. It's funny how your opinions can change. After a few listens, the melody in their songs comes to the fore and Goose distinguish themselves by displaying an uncanny pop sensibility. Many thanks to Jay for this great article!

When you think of Belgium, you think of stuffy EU bureaucrats passing laws about bendy bananas and not much else. Yet they managed to produce one of the best electronic acts since the invention of the keyboard. Goose are a quartet hailing from somewhere in said country. Despite not having any commercial success in the UK to date, they have created a massive buzz in the UK Dance and indie scenes alike (and the lead singer has a massive following on myspace). Unlike most acts these days who rely on hype and TV talent shows to get established, Goose are doing things the hard way and have built up a solid fan base through sheer hard graft and a never ending world tour.

Apparently they are very popular with the Brighton crowd – which is where they filmed the video for their debut single, the rather excellent "Black Gloves". The sight of four grown men whizzing round Brighton in a bunch of old skool go-karts is rather funny, but very appropriate for the rather catchy (mostly) instrumental tune - its like the Wacky Races all over again!

Debut album "Bring It On" is a slice of fantastic electronic music, mostly dancey but with a few mellower tracks thrown in for good measure such as "Slow Down" and the sublime "Safari Beach".

The buzz around Goose isn’t limited to a few NME journalists though as the Scissor Sisters commissioned them to remix "She’s My Man", turning it from rather bland “safe” 3rd single to a heady electro pop anthem. The mix can be heard in full on their myspace page. Latest single "Bring It On" follows the trend of previous singles, and gets JFK from MSTRKRFT on board for a fabulous remix and a rather strange video.

"Bring It On" the album is available from some good music retailers, and a few bad ones as well as several digital stores. Though it is easier to find on ebay along with the promo singles. If you are lucky, you might find the deluxe edition in your local HMV which includes several remixes and the rather fabulous Masters On Top.

In a strange coincidence, Goose are currently touring Australia as part of the Parklife extravaganza. Sounds like a pretty hot ticket to me!

'N Sync - Pop

"Pop" is a song by boyband 'N Sync from their 2001 album Celebrity. The song's subject focuses on contemporary criticism of boy bands and pop music. The music video won 4 MTV Video Music Awards for Best Pop Video, Best Dance Video, Best Group Video and Viewer's Choice.

Technorati Tags:'N Sync, Celebrity, Pop, Music Videos

'N Sync - Bye Bye Bye

"Bye Bye Bye" is the first single released from 'N Sync's second album, No Strings Attached. Released in early 2000, it is a reference to the group's break from their manager Lou Pearlman and their record label, RCA. The song was featured in X2: X-Men United and in Britney Spears' film debut Crossroads.

Technorati Tags:'N Sync, No Strings Attached, Pop, Music Videos

Backstreet Boys - Incomplete

"Incomplete" is the first single from the Backstreet Boys comeback album Never Gone, released in June of 2005. The song is the group's first single in over four years, as the group did not record an album between 2001 and 2005. The song quickly became the #1 most requested song in top markets in both U.S. and overseas.

Technorati Tags:Backstreet Boys, Never Gone, Piano Rock, Music Videos

Backstreet Boys - I Want It That Way

"I Want It That Way" was the most successful single from the Backstreet Boys' 1999 album, Millennium. The song is considered the band's biggest hit to date and their signature song. It was one of the biggest hits of 1999, reaching the #1 spot in over 18 countries. The album was nominated for 5 Grammy Awards including Album of the Year.

Technorati Tags:Backstreet Boys, Millennium, Pop, Music Videos

Backstreet Boys - Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely

"Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely" is the third single by the Backstreet Boys off their 1999 album, Millennium. The album sold over 1.13 million units in its first week, setting (at the time) a record for first week sales.

Technorati Tags:Backstreet Boys, Millennium, Pop, Music Videos

Britney Spears - ...Baby One More Time

"...Baby One More Time" is the debut single from pop singer Britney Spears, released from her debut album ...Baby One More Time (1998). As a result of its international success, the single is generally perceived as Spears' signature song.

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Victoria Beckham's Stunning New Low

A couple of weeks ago I posted "My Love Is For Real" from Victoria Beckham's scrapped 2004 album and was genuinely surprised by the quality of the track. I even expressed my regret that the project was abandoned. Well, I take it all back. "My Love Is For Real" was the exception to the general rule of everything Skeletoria touches turning to shit. The poor thing is not only completely lacking in talent, she's also utterly delusional if the freshly leaked "Let My Hair Down" is any indication.

Victoria clearly wasn't satisfied with her first spectacularly unsuccessful urban makeover at the hands of Damon Dash and decided to have another stab at relaunching her career as a ghetto diva. What was the crazy bitch thinking? Dannii's "Party Jam" has more street cred than "Let My Hair Down". In fact, this sorry excuse for an urban jam is even less convincing than the two bowling balls attached to Sticky Vicky's chest. I'm not sure what's worse, the cheap production or Victoria inviting her man to "bounce" with her in da club. Bitch, please! The most disturbing thing is the fact that I have listened to this three and a half minute slice of aural torture more than once. I really am a whore for a useless diva with no discernible talent!

A big thanks to Magical Froggy for his stunning cover art!

Chloe's Lattanzi = Delicious

As Olivia Newton-John's only child, Chloe Lattanzi has been in the media spotlight since birth. Initially held up as the epitome of well-adjusted celebrity offspring, Chloe is now the poster girl for anorexia. Following Olivia's daughter over the past few years has been like watching a car crash in slow motion. I want to stop looking but I can't help myself. I don't want to focus too heavily on Chloe's many issues. They get enough coverage. I'm more interested in her fabulous and increasingly disturbing musical output. Chloe really needs to get her shit together because she has almost unlimited potential as a pop star.

Chloe's problems first came to the surface when she announced that she was going to follow in Olivia's footsteps by releasing an album. She was snapped up by Warner Australia in 2003 and soon generated a lot of buzz with her debut album, tentatively titled "Lonely Nights In Paradise". The album was completed and even promoted before Chloe pulled the plug and bought herself out of the contract, claiming she wanted greater artistic control. Since then, Chloe has been in one long tailspin - garnering more attention for her battle with anorexia and her alleged plastic surgery addiction than for her music. I think Chloe has simply buckled under the weight of expectation. I feel sorry for her. She knows she will be compared with her mother and judged more severely than other fledgling pop divas.

The great irony is that all the tracks leaked from "Lonely Nights In Paradise" have been fantastic. I'm sure the album would have been well received. Chloe has a great voice and more importantly, has something to say. Thankfully, she has continued to work on the album and it is scheduled to be released later this year with the new title, "No Pain". The first taste of her new material has caused quite a stir in Australia. "Delicious" is dark, disturbing and insanely catchy. The lyrics are genuinely confronting. Chloe sings about wasting away and pleads for help to survive. It feels perverse to say it but "Delicious" is actually a hugely enjoyable listen. The beats are hypnotic and the chorus has been stuck in my head for days. If this is any indication, "No Pain" should be an absolute winner.

"Delicious" was put up on Chloe's Myspace and is obviously a work in progress. Make sure you check out her other songs - particularly, "Magic", which samples her mother's #1 hit of the same name. Get well, girlfriend.

Backstreet Boys - The Call

"The Call" was the second single from the Backstreet Boys' November 2000 album, Black & Blue. The video is a story of a man cheating on his girlfriend, with a role taken by each of the boys. In the last scene, all the boys look into a crowd of angry women.

Technorati Tags:Backstreet Boys, Black & Blue, Pop, Music Videos

Backstreet Boys - Everybody (Backstreet's Back)

"Everybody (Backstreet's Back)" is the first single from the Backstreet Boys' 1997 album Backstreet's Back. The Joseph Kahn-directed music video plays on the horror film genre—a concept popularized by Michael Jackson's Thriller—performed as a parody. The video also features supermodel Josie Maran as Howie's companion.

Technorati Tags:Backstreet Boys, Backstreet's Back, Dance Pop, Music Videos

Backstreet Boys - Larger Than Life

"Larger Than Life" was the second single released from the Backstreet Boys 1999 album, Millennium. It takes place in a futuristic space setting, and includes elaborate special effects and animation, as well as a break-down with a dance number. The video holds a Guinness World Record for the 5th most expensive music video with estimated production costs of over US$2,100,000.

Technorati Tags:Backstreet Boys, Millennium, Dance Pop, Music Videos

Backstreet Boys - As Long As You Love Me

"As Long As You Love Me" is the second single by the Backstreet Boys from their album Backstreet's Back released on August 30, 1997. The album hit big on the U.S. charts, and debuting at #1 in Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Finland and Austria.

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Backstreet Boys - Inconsolable

"Inconsolable" is the first single by the Backstreet Boys from their sixth studio album Unbreakable set to be released on October 30, 2007. The album is the group's follow-up to 2005's Never Gone since the departure of longtime member Kevin Richardson in summer 2006.

Technorati Tags:Backstreet Boys, Unbreakable, Piano Pop, Music Videos

Lil' Mama - Lip Gloss

"Lip Gloss" is the first single from rapper Lil' Mama's first album, Voice of the Young People. The video was nominated for the VMA Monster single of the Year award. There is also a dance called "The Lip Gloss" that accompanies the song.

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Che'Nelle - I Fell In Love With The DJ (feat. Cham)

Che'Nelle is a young Rhythm And Blues soul, reggaeton singer/songwriter, producer signed to Virgin Records America. She also shares the same management team as Kanye West, performing as the opening act on his Australian tour in March 2006. "I Fell In Love With The DJ" featuring Cham is the first single from her debut album "Things Happen For A Reason" due out on September 25.

Technorati Tags:Che'Nelle, Things Happen For A Reason, Kanye West, Hip-Hop, Music Videos

Matchbox Twenty - How Far We've Come

"How Far We've Come" is the lead single from the forthcoming Matchbox Twenty (originally spelled Matchbox 20) retrospective collection, Exile on Mainstream, which will be released on October 2, 2007. The music video premiered on September 6, 2007.

Technorati Tags:Matchbox Twenty, Exile on Mainstream, Rob Thomas, Alternative Rock, Music Videos

Sean Kingston - Me Love

"Me Love" is the second single from Sean Kingston from his self-titled debut album. In August 2007, the song debuted at number 28 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, making it the Hot Shot Debut of the week. In the same week, Kingston's previous single, "Beautiful Girls", was number one on the chart.

Technorati Tags:Sean Kingston, Reggae, Music Videos

J. Holiday - Bed (feat. Fabolous)

"Bed" is the second single release by American R&B singer J. Holiday from his debut album Back of My Lac. There are many remixes, however the official remix features rapper Fabolous. "Bed" debuted on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in the issue week of July 4, 2007 and peaked at number 6.

Technorati Tags:J. Holiday, Back of My Lac, Fabolous, R&B, Music Videos

Britney Spears - Lucky

"Lucky" is the second single from pop singer Britney Spears' album Oops!... I Did It Again. It was released during the third quarter of 2000. The song is about an actress, who despite being very "lucky" and seemingly having it all - fame, wealth, beauty, is truly lonely on the inside for unknown reasons.

Technorati Tags:Britney Spears, Oops!... I Did It Again, Pop, Music Videos

Britney Spears - (You Drive Me) Crazy

"(You Drive Me) Crazy" is the third single from pop singer Britney Spears' debut album ...Baby One More Time (1999), and later included on her compilation Greatest Hits: My Prerogative (2004). The song was also included on the original motion picture soundtrack of the film Drive Me Crazy, released on September 28, 1999.

Technorati Tags:Britney Spears, ...Baby One More Time, Dance Pop, Music Videos

Swedish Trash Kings - Sunblock

Sunblock is a dance group comprised of two Swedish DJs. Not that you would know it from looking at their videos and album covers, which generally depict three buxom ladies in various states of undress. As you have probably already guessed, there is nothing high brow about Sunblock. Their first single was a remix of the Baywatch theme song, they specialise in trashy dance covers and their videos often feature Swedish tarts flashing their tits. Basically, they are my idea of musical bliss!

I feel like I've indulged in too much culture lately. I've been ranting about Robyn for days and I'm still buzzing about Brielle's acoustic show. An acoustic show with a real guitar! It's time to get back to my trashy roots and you can't really get any deeper into the gutter than Sunblock. Well, actually you can - but I need to keep something up my sleeve! Sunblock first came to my attention with their remixed Baywatch theme, "I'll Be Ready". I loved their sleazy image but was not particularly overwhelmed by the song. Given the group's non-existent profile in Australia, their other European hits passed me by until my friend Jay insisted I pay Sunblock some serious attention. I'm glad I did because Sunblock's treasure trove of trashy dance/pop gems is positively overwhelming!

Sunblock's stunning "The First Time" Clip

This post will focus on my two favourite Sunblock anthems. "The First Time" will be instantly familiar to anyone old enough to remember the late 1980s. Robin Beck scored a worldwide smash hit with the original when it was picked up as the theme song for a Coke advertisement. I've always considered Robin to be one of the most underrated divas in pop, so it's nice to discover that Sunblock invited her back to perform the vocals on their version. The resulting song sounds like Kelly Llorenna on crack. Yes, it's that good! "The First Time" made the top 10 in the UK and much of Europe but has been shamefully ignored in Australia. The same goes for Sunblock's stunning debut album, "I'll Be Ready". Even the album tracks are brilliant. I particularly love, "Tune In (My Frequency)". I'm not sure which diva provides the vocals but she is seriously fabulous!

If you need any further proof of Sunblock's brilliance, check out their latest video for "Baby Baby" (a stunning cover of Corona's 90s classic)! It comes in three formats. The standard clip with busty bimbos, an adult's only version with an eyeful of boobies and just to prove that they're not complete misogynists, there's even a classy poofter edit with shirtless men riding mechanical bulls! Bless.

A big thanks to Jay for all his help with this post! If you live in Europe, you can buy "The First Time" maxi-single as well as Sunblock's album, "I'll Be Ready", from CDON. Otherwise, you can order a copy from HMV UK or Amazon UK. Chaos are also selling import copies locally for $30.

Robyn Conquers Sydney

Last night's Robyn showcase was one of the most electric live performances I've ever seen. As someone who has played her recent album on repeat since its Swedish release in 2005, the opportunity to see the great woman in the flesh was something akin to a spiritual experience! I was expecting Robyn to be brilliant after reading rave reviews of her recent UK shows but I didn't count on such an amazing atmosphere. Within 30 seconds of Robyn taking the stage, you could almost sense the dawning realisation that we were witnessing something extraordinary. I have no doubt that Robyn's next Australian tour will grace far bigger venues than the tiny Art Factory. The chance to see a superstar at the height of her game, in such intimate surrounds, was an honour.

Robyn’s reputation as the queen of cool was reflected by the attendance of Sydney’s hilarious “it” crowd. The usual mix of painful socialites, z-list celebrities, underwear models, musicians and ex-Australian Idol contestants were all accounted for. A special mention goes to the delightful Roxane LeBrasse, who threw a bit of a diva tantrum in the queue outside the venue. Admittedly, the door Nazi was incredibly rude – even by Sydney’s lofty standards. Once everyone had descended into the freshly graffitied bowels of the old Central Stations Records warehouse, the posing began in earnest. I often wonder if there's some kind of unspoken competition to see who can look the most disinterested. Thankfully, there were enough genuine Robyn fans and Scandinavian groupies to inject some life into the proceedings.

At 10pm Robyn finally appeared on stage wearing a t-shirt printed with lyrics from Muscles’ dance smash “Ice Cream”. I've often thought that Robyn looks like an extra from The Lord Of The Rings in her videos and album covers, so I was really quite taken aback by how pretty she is in person. It’s also hard to believe she’s almost 30. Robyn still looks like a teenager. The set kicked off with a ferocious version of “Cobrastyle”. Robyn seemed genuinely surprised by the huge audience response. Fans were singing along to every word and even the posers put their attitude aside long enough to look vaguely excited. The setlist could not have been any more perfect with most of the album being covered. “Who’s That Girl?” followed “Crash And Burn Girl”, while the audience went wild for “Be Mine” and “Konichiwa Bitches”. I was very excited that Robyn sang my two favourite songs from the album – “Handle Me” and “Bum Like You” – and I think I might have slightly ejaculated when I heard the opening strains of “Keep This Fire Burning”!

One of the biggest surprises was Robyn’s poptastic interpretation of “Dream On”, which is infinitely superior to the studio version. The set ended with an exquisite rendition of “With Every Heartbeat”. Robyn even made forgetting the lyrics seem artistic by doing a crazy little dance towards the end! The frenzied crowd were not going to let Robyn leave that easily and she dutifully returned for an encore. I was hoping for some old school Robyn and was utterly thrilled to hear her bizarre, pared back version of “Show Me Love”. Robyn claimed that the song had been around since before she was born, which I find somewhat bizarre – isn’t Robyn listed as one of the co-writers? The spectacular show reached it conclusion with a punk interpretation of “Jack U Off”. Robyn’s performance lasted for slightly less than an hour but its impact on her Australian campaign will be massive. Robyn is one of the very rare artists who not only matches but surpasses the hype.

PS. “Konichiwa Bitches” is in stores today! Order your copy online here.

Natasha Bedingfield - These Words

"These Words" a.k.a. "These Words (I Love You, I Love You)" is the first track and second single from Natasha Bedingfield's 2004 debut album Unwritten. The song was nominated for Best British Single at the 2005 BRIT Awards.

Technorati Tags:Natasha Bedingfield, Unwritten, Pop, Music Videos

Natasha Bedingfield - Soulmate

"Soulmate" is a pop song from Natasha Bedingfield's second album, N.B. (2007). The song's lyrics discuss if there is a soulmate for everyone and if she will ever find the right partner. The video premiered June 6, 2007 on Yahoo! UK.

Technorati Tags:Natasha Bedingfield, N.B., Pop, Music Videos

Jennifer Lopez - Do It Well

"Do It Well" is the first single from Jennifer Lopez's fifth studio album Brave. The song was released for radio airplay on August 21, 2007. The video premiered on Yahoo! Music on September 6, 2007.

Technorati Tags:Jennifer Lopez, Brave, Pop, Music Videos

Melinda Jackson's New Video

The video has finally arrived for one of my favourite Australian pop songs of the year. Melinda Jackson's "Magic" is not so much a cover of the Police's "Every Little Thing That She Does Is Magic" as a complete musical overhaul. The result is a dose of pure, unadulterated pop! The fun video finds Melinda rolling around in bed, looking gorgeous as usual. I particularly like the quirky special effects! "Magic" is released on Monday. The single contains 7 fabulous mixes (including the awesome Moustache Club Mix) and can be purchased here. Bring on Melinda's debut album!

Brielle Davis - Vanguard Showcase

An acoustic gig is an intimidating prospect for the most seasoned pop diva. Without the protective buffer of a backing track and choreography, the focus falls squarely on the raw talent of the performer - the strength of their voice and the quality of their songs. Brielle Davis, however, is no ordinary pop tart. From the moment Brielle took to the intimate Vanguard stage on Sunday night, she held the audience in the palm of her pretty hand with brilliant acoustic interpretations of her own fine material and an eclectic selection of cover versions. If there were any doubts about Brielle being anything but the real deal, they had well and truly vanished by the conclusion of this mesmerising performance.

While Mamacita warmed the crowd with their funky blend of Latin infused hip hop, Brielle made a low key entrance and immediately started greeting friends, fans and family members. It hardly seems possible but Brielle is even more strikingly beautiful in person. With her pretty face framed by a mane of fire red curls, Brielle looked every bit the rock goddess in a sexy corset top and killer heels. Most importantly, Brielle has the raw talent to match her stunning looks. I can't think of many divas who could carry off an acoustic set of pared back pop songs with only the backing of a guitarist and a microphone. Brielle not only pulled it off, she enthralled everyone with the pure quality of her voice and the power of her music. The versatile set showcased Brielle's new material, included fan favourites and threw in some surprising cover versions for good measure.

Despite being relegated to a B-side, Brielle's sublime "Oxygen" is an Australian pop classic. The sense of obsession and longing that makes the original version such an unusual dance anthem became even more apparent in Brielle's haunting live version. Stripped of its electronic palette, the song was transformed into a beautifully desperate plea for love. Ever the chameleon, Brielle effortlessly switched from forlorn to funky with a sexy interpretation of "Cybersexual". The first of several new tracks, "Cybersexual" is a very modern love song with some eyebrow raising lyrics about hitting Brielle's "virtual spot"! An edgy studio version of "Cybersexual" could well be the breakout hit Brielle has been waiting for. Speaking of hits, the evening's warmest reception was reserved for a rousing rendition of "Serial Thriller", which had the entire crowd singing along.

An acoustic performance of "Serial Thriller" from another gig

Other highlights included the promising batch of new tracks and a quirky selection of cover versions. An inspired rendition of the Scissor Sister's "Take Your Mama Out" tore up the venue, while Brielle displayed her ability to rock with the best of them by covering Queens Of The Stone Age - if I'm not mistaken! The last time I saw Brielle perform, she was camping it up with a fabulous dance set at Arq nightclub. It speaks volumes for Brielle's astonishing versatility that she's equally at home playing a metal anthem on an acoustic guitar. By the end of the gig Brielle had proven beyond any shadow of a doubt that she is the complete package.

On a personal note, one of the many things I love about Brielle is the way she interacts with fans. Instead of disappearing like a diva, Brielle climbed off stage and mingled with the crowd for almost an hour. I was lucky enough to be introduced to Brielle and she is one of the sweetest people I have ever met. In fact, The Vanguard was positively swarming with members of the Davis clan - and I think I managed to chat with just about all them by the end of the night. What a cool family!

Those of you who missed the show can still revel in Brielle's acoustic brilliance with the announcement of a brand spanking new acoustic EP, "Crossing The Line". I'm hugely excited about the EP. The tracklisting is a fine mix of new and previously released material, making it the perfect album sampler. I can't wait for my copy to arrive in the post, so I can listen to Brielle's stunning acoustic version of "Oxygen" on repeat! "Crossing The Line" is exclusively available from Brielle's website and costs a very reasonable $10. You can listen to clips of all 7 tracks and order your copy here.

Essential Links

Brielle's Myspace
Brielle's Website
Take It Off (Andy Caldwell Mix) on YouTube
Serial Thriller on YouTube