There are so many new music videos lately! It's a little hard to keep up, but it's a good problem to have, cuz music videos are fun to me. Luckily for you, dear reader, I'm Jake Kelly and I keep up with these kind of things pretty well because of that. :)
Pound it!
Anyway, the "PTA" that I referred to in the title of this post is (in case you couldn't tell from the above picture) "Pound the Alarm," the current single by Nicki Minaj. I'm quite pleased that this song has been selected to be a single, as it is one of my favorite songs by Nicki. Its music video came out today. Have a look-see!
This music video is pretty similar to that of "Starships." Perhaps this is appropriate, because the two songs are pretty similar as well. This time, the exotic location is Minaj's homeland, Trinidad. I feel that while the video fits the song nicely, I would've liked more choreography and perhaps a story as well. It was very colorful visually and the party scenes were very fun though.
I'd like to share with you guys some projects that I've been up to lately. They come, with love, in the form of video. Here we go!
I auditioned for the new E! series, Opening Act, with this first video. For it, I chose to sing "My Girl" by The Temptations. I like to think of it as motown with a Broadway twist.
The next video is from my silver (intermediate) standard (international) ballroom class at Utah Valley University. This dance is called the foxtrot. The rhythm has a lot of interesting variation, which I can definitely appreciate.
Lastly, I'd like to share a video of myself singing the National Anthem. It serves as my audition to sing said song at a Utah Jazz basketball game. They asked to keep it simple, in order to properly honor the country, so I tried to keep that in mind.
Let me know what you think. Comment, subscribe, or just leave me some good karma. Love you all! <3
Ok...how did this guy not win American Idol?? -My first thought while listening to Adam Lambert's latest album, "Trespassing."
I've been meaning to post this for quite a while now (since May), but I've been rather busy with school, work, performing...blah blah blah. But the aforementioned album is pretty great and I've listened to it a lot. Here are my thoughts on it in a full review.
What's black and white and yellow all over? ;)
This color scheme is a big trend in album art right now (this, for example). I like it. It's gritty, but the pop of color gives it life at the same time.
Anyway. On to what really matters. Without further ado, the track list!
"Trespassing"- As the title track of the album, this song represents its artist well. It makes a bold statement: I am who I am, like it or not. The hand claps that can be heard in the background and thumping bass give it a nice anthem-like feel.
"Cuckoo"- This one is a club jam, no doubt. Its lyrics describe wanting to party so much that it makes you feel crazy. I can definitely relate to that.
"Shady"- Nile Rodgers rocks out on the guitar and Sam Sparro lends some vocals here for a grimy dance tune. The sexual references that began in the first track continue here, but given the song's title, I guess that's not too surprising.
"Never Close Our Eyes"- In the vein of "Till the World Ends," this song talks about the desire to party endlessly. And it has the thrilling production to match. This party-ready joint was chosen to be the album's second single. I hope there are more singles after this one, but that remains to be seen. Below is its music video, complete with a creative science fiction premise. Check it!
Science Friction
This video has a cool, futuristic vibe to it. It kinda reminds me of "Ready, Set, Go!" by Tokio Hotel from back in the day. Anyone remember that?
"Kickin' In"- This song is very offbeat and funky. It's another club tune and speaks of drinking, dancing, etc. In fact, drinking is mentioned several times within this album. Lambert is not exactly wholesome, but I already knew that and consider it to be part of his charm.
"Naked Love"- This song is very melodic. Because the main subject matter here is infatuation, the lyrics speak directly to Adam's object of affection. The production is very carefree and adds quite well to that tone. It reminds me a little of an old Michael Jackson song. Except dirtier, of course. ;)
"Pop That Lock"- My favorite song on the album! Complete with a wicked dubstep breakdown, this one is great for dancing. Metaphors are used throughout to represent pursuing your dreams. If you're only gonna listen to one track on this album, make sure it's this one.
"Better Than I Know Myself"- This served as the first single off the album. It's a breathtaking ballad that really shows off Adam's belting skills. The lyrics say that you can't really leave someone who is perfect for you, though you may want to at times. Its video can be seen below, which Lambert himself has described as his "abstract" moment.
Light & Darkness
This music video is an interesting depiction of the two sides of oneself. Such is a major theme represented in the album. The two colored eyes at the end give me chills.
"Broken English"- Seeing as Finnish reality TV personality Sauli Koskinen is Adam's boyfriend, I have a hunch that this song is about him. The harmonies here are gorgeous. They make me want to sing with him. :)
"Underneath"- I find this song to be a little boring, to tell you the truth. The lyrics are generally depressing and the production doesn't excite me too much. Sorry if you like it, it's just not my fave.
"Chokehold"- This song is mid-tempo rocker. The concept is actually pretty interesting- wanting someone even though they hurt you. Perhaps its about abuse?
"Outlaws of Love"- I think that this song is really sweet. Its lyrics describe the feelings of not fitting into society because of the one you love, which I can only assume is about being gay. The minimal instrumentation helps add nicely to this feeling.
Bonus Tracks:
"Runnin'"- There's a cool, mysterious tone that can be found here. Adam singing in lower registers at the beginning really adds to that. My only critique is that the word "runnin'" is repeated just a little too much.
"Take Back"- The beginning piano part of this song sorta reminds me of "Va Va Voom" by Nicki Minaj, but the rest of the song is all its own. Its subject matter is that of wanting things to be good again with a loved one. I'm sure a lot of people can relate to that.
"Nirvana"- This song is very relaxing. True to its name, it's lyrically about wanting to find a special place that's all your own. "Pocketful of Sunshine," anyone?
"By the Rules"- There's an almost island sound to this song, with its Caribbean drums and hazy synthesizers. The lyrics are fairly metaphorical, symbolizing the act of giving in to love. "Let nature have its way" is the line that stands out the most to me in this regard.
"Map"- This song plays like an upbeat music box. Some of the melody is comparable to "Outlaws of Love," but each song still has its own identity. Here, Adam sings of how he doesn't need a map to know how to get to his true love. I find that to be a pretty cute concept.
My final verdict on this album is that it's both fun and serious at the same time, which I think is a commendable thing. Adam also shows real strength and versatility in his vocals throughout. I'd also like to note that this was the first time an openly gay artist has ever had an album debut at #1 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart. Way to go, AL. :)
Earlier today, the Killers released a music video for their new single "Runaways."
Don't love it, don't hate it.
Like its song, this isn't exactly the most exciting video in the world. But there are some neat visuals and the performance clips are well carried by the band's lead singer, Brandon Flowers. And I must say, Mr. Flowers is looking pretty good. :)
Are we all just runaways?
What do you think: Another hit for Brandon and the boys? Or was it a misfire? Perhaps you agree with me and feel that it lies somewhere in the middle?
Pretty cool vid. will.i.am is actually a really talented musician. And I've never heard of Eva Simons, but this left me with a pretty good first impression of her.
I miss the Black Eyed Peas, but I'm still kind of excited about will's solo career.
No Doubt released their first single in years today. It's called "Settle Down" and it's pretty awesome. This is to promote their upcoming album, "Push and Shove," which is to be released September 25th. Fans rejoice!
Neon Rock
Weighing in at a whopping 6 minutes, this song borrows from many genres. These include ska, reggae, rock, new wave, and more. I'm pretty sure all the No Doubters out there are gonna eat this right up.
The lyrics are up to interpretation, but to me, it seems to be about not stressing and enjoying life. The lead singer, Gwen Stefani, portrays this feeling well while singing of how "nothin's gonna knock this girl down." I can definitely dig that kind of message. I'm kind of celebrating right now, because I've missed Gwen a lot.
Here it is!
Let me know what you think. Have a groovy day~
-Jake
P.S.- The music video is to premiere tonight. I will update this post when that happens. :)
Update: Here it is! The official music video.
Not too much symbolism, etc. going on here. But they seem to be having fun.
Madonna came out with a brand new music video today for "Turn Up the Radio."
I think the concept is really cute and fits the song well, but I could have done without so much background noise. It kind of distracted from the song and, I mean, it's not like we can't tell what's going on without it. Also, I could see some lighting equipment at one point. Bad form.
Party on Wheels
One last (constructive) criticism- the Italian spoken at the end. I get that it takes place in Italy, but the song is in English. Maybe subtitles or English with an Italian accent instead?
Besides those things, I loved it. Well done, Madge. The summer's not as hot without you. <3
-Jake
Update: Apparently, the final moment of the video where Italian is spoken translates to: "The party is over now. Fasten the seat-belt, bitch!" Pretty clever. :P
I declare Friday the 13th to be music Friday! Therefore, I'm going to talk to you about 13 songs. Pretty apropos, no?
I just wanna play my music.
Let's get this party started! First up is a song that is near and dear to my heart, Lady Gaga's "Hair."
I'm as free as my hair.
This seriously needs to be her next single. I mean, it's already peaked at #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart just as a promotional single. I think that the public would really connect with the anthem-like vibe found here. Plus...it's catchy!
Next up, "Want U Back," by Cher Lloyd featuring Astro.
Her noise? Turquoise
This post breakup ditty serves up some quirky fun. Cher is cute, but Astro? No thanks. I just don't like his flow and he seems way too young to really be taken seriously as a rapper. I heard a version without him and it's much better.
Girl rapper time! And no, it's not Nicki Minaj. Azealia Banks currently has a deal with MTV to push her new single, "Jumanji." Listeners can download it for free. :)
Follow the Jungle Beat
She may not be quite as manic as Nicki, but this girl can still bring it. After a brief harp intro, she hits hard over a hectic mix of hand claps, steel drums, and various synthesized noises. Slightly frantic, but it never gets to the level of a hot mess, so it's still worth a listen.
Owl City (mentioned here) featured Carly Rae Jepsen recently. The cuteness factor consequently soared on their track, "Good Time."
Makes me wanna go to the beach. :)
It's a fun little summer dance tune. "It's always a good time." That line says it all.
Speaking of fun little summer dance tunes, Madonna is set to release "Turn Up the Radio" as a single in August. She just barely released the artwork for it, which I'm guessing is from the music video shoot. How exciting for M fans!
Radio Madonna
Yeah, I'm pretty pleased by this news. I hope that it gets a worldwide release and an awesome video. I mentioned in my review of "MDNA," the latest album from her Madgesty, that this was one of my favorite songs from it and I'm sticking to that. Both the lyrics and the production are very carefree. This will sound great on the radio. :D
Another single turning heads is "Put It Down," by Brandy featuring Chris Brown. This serves as the second single from her upcoming album.
Comic Book Look
This turned my head, but not in the right way. I had a huge "WTF" moment the first time I heard it. First of all, the constant "I'mma put it down..." vocal sample is strangely robotic and annoying. Also, I'm not really feeling this whole mid-tempo vibe and the lyrics are pretty terrible. There are moments where way too many syllables are squeezed into one spot. Lastly, Breezy rapped here, when he's usually a singer. She should have either had him sing or gotten a real rapper. I love B-Rocka, so better luck to her next time.
One song that I've been in love with for some time is "Weightless," by Natasha Bedingfield.
Free as a spirit on a journey of hope.
This song has such a positive message. The instrumentation adds such a feeling of joy and lifts me up every time I hear it. It was apparently released as a single in the U.S. and Jamie Fox recorded additional vocals for it, but I guess nothing really ever came of it. I never heard it on the radio or saw it promoted anywhere and a music video was never produced (Believe me, I checked.). The American public may not appreciate you, NB, but I do. <3
An artist who hasn't been heard from in a long time is Fiona Apple. Well, she's back! About a month ago, she released the single, "Every Single Night." It was in support of her latest album, which has been shortened to "The Idler Wheel..." This is because the full title is a lengthy poem, much like a previous album of hers, "When the Pawn..."
Artsy Fartsy
This song is cool and different, just like her. It starts out with an eerie music box vibe and grows into a chant of sorts. Fiona adds her signature voice to the mix, with its tired, angry tone. The lyrics speak of how she fights with her friends "every single night." I don't know if I love it, but it's interesting for sure.
Jennifer Lopez teamed up with Pitbull once again for her current single, "Dance Again."
Never mind the obvious similarities to this duo's song from last year, "On the Floor," this song is a hot jam for sure. Makes me want to get up and dance! Staying true to its title, this track sees its performers delivering lyrics involving the desire to get back on the dance floor. J.lo may be leaving American Idol as a judge, but she can certainly still have a good time.
Next is one of my (many) "singles that got away," as I like to call them. "Yummy," by Gwen Stefani featuring Pharrell is about as catchy as they come.
I'm feelin' yummy head to toe.
This should have been a single back in the day! It was played in clubs and stuff, but that doesn't cut it for me. It was my favorite from her. The lyrics are ridiculous good fun and it's way dance-able. Plus, the end has an Inspector Gadget kind of quality about it. What's not to love?? I miss Gwen, but I won't have to for long. She and No Doubt are coming out with a new single to promote their upcoming album in a matter of days. You'll see it here, no doubt. ;)
My Chemical Romance made a great little song back in 2006 called "I Don't Love You."
Jack and Jill: Black and Ill
This is one of my favorite MCR songs. I like a lot of their stuff, but this one has a special place in my heart. It was a single in the U.K., but not here. It's ok though- it had a beautiful, symbolic video. Obviously, this song is about heartache and lead singer Gerard Way's emotive vocals add perfectly to that feeling. I love to hear his band mates back him up as well- they always kill it while shredding on the guitar, pounding on the drums, and thumping on the bass. Well done, My Chem.
3oh!3 (or as I like to call them, the male Ke$ha duo) came out with a new song entitled "You're Gonna Love This" just a few days ago.
myoh!me
Much like other artists mentioned here, this is in support of an upcoming album from these boys. This song is all about partying in both its lyrics and production, which does not surprise me at all. It's what we've all come to love and expect from 3oh!3 as a guilty pleasure. I can totally see this playing in a nightclub ...and I would totally dance to it, if that came to pass. XD
The Killers are also back in action. Just the other day, they came out with a new song. It is entitled "Runaways" and serves as the first single from their forthcoming album, "Battle Born."
Epic!
My final verdict on this song is...eh. I'm not really a big fan of their Springsteen/Americana sound. I find it to be kind of boring, if I'm being totally honest. I was hoping for their upbeat, techno-infused glam rock that I love so much. Oh well. Maybe next time.
If any of these intrigue you, you should totally look them up. You won't regret it. Happy Music Friday the 13th~
Another dance video? That's right! You know you love it. ;)
This time, it's the waltz. This vid was recorded as part of my intermediate (they call it "silver") international style ballroom class at Utah Valley University. I love this dance, because it flows quite well and is just so classic. <3
I also love the timing of the waltz. It's in 3/4 time, rather than most music, which is in 4/4 time. I appreciate something different every so often. Know what I mean?
Anyway, I hope you like it. Thanks for watching/reading. Have a great day!
"You can't always get what you want." -The Rolling Stones, singing about one of life's hardest lessons.
Demi Lovato is coming to the Energy Solutions Arena on July 12th. Unfortunately, I have a show that night. :/ I mean...I'm excited about the show and everything (COME), but...it's Demi!
You never really can fix a heart.
I know what you're thinking: "WTF, isn't she a Disney starlet?" Well, she used to be. But she's almost 20 now and has gone through a lot. After being treated for cutting, an eating disorder, and bipolarity, D grew stronger and released the appropriately titled smash album "Unbroken."
Hot Chelle Rae and Owl City too. FML.
I can look forward to Ms. Lovato judging on the X Factor in the fall, but right now, I'm still pretty disappointed. To console myself, I watched her recent gig on Good Morning America. I'm a true Lovatic! Are you?
Pink (or P!nk, as some refer to her) recently came out with a new song. It is entitled "Blow Me (One Last Kiss)" and serves as the lead single from her forthcoming album, "The Truth About Love." Both titles are kind of intriguing, don't you think?
Vintage-y. Cute. :)
This track is bold and brassy, just like its singer. Lyrically, it speaks of a breakup over a rocking dance beat. I quite like it, though she sounds a bit screechy on the word "just" of the chorus.
Here's the lyric video. Kind of a cool concept. A fully-blown music video is coming soon.
What do you think of this tune? Is Pink playing it safe, or is she fresh to death? Let me know!
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