Jenifer from France (Full name: Jenifer Yael Dadouche-Bartoli).

Her music consists of fat synth and cranked up bass, with lots of vocal harmonies and at times her voice reminds me of Gwen Stefani.

Very modern – and all in French, nonetheless. If you don’t know who she is and you like pop – check her out!! Especially her single, “Tourner Ma Page” off of her album ‘Lunatique’.

I would think that her music is filling out the Dance clubs in France, and it should be here in the UK too. Even without understanding the lyrics.

This is the second French artist that I’ve come across within the last few days that I can’t help but rave about. Sinik (featuring James Blunt) was my last discovery. What’s going on over there? Cool stuff.

Check out Jenifer – “Tourner Ma Page” video

Jenifer – ‘Lunatique’ on amazon.co.uk

Jenifer Bartoli on Wikipedia

Jenifer Official Website (French)

By: Jenny May – Band Weblogs

After a year of touring (with Gym Class Heroes, Fall Out Boy and Young Love, among others), Daniel Hunter and his PlayRadioPlay! outfit is ready to unleash his first full-length opus, ‘TEXAS’.

Says Hunter, a die-hard Cowboys fan: “I named it for the love of the state. I assumed somebody had named their album ‘Texas’ before, but no one had. I had to do it before someone else did!”

The songs showcase a slightly heavier guitar sound, but maintain Hunter’s quirky outlook and pop aesthetic. “I actually write my guitar stuff first,” says the musician. “Then I compliment it with some beats or keyboards.” But whatever the case, there’s definitely diversity at work. The ballad “Pirate and Princess” features almost orchestral flourishes, while “Tooth Decay” is more acoustic-based. The album also marks the first time Hunter has worked with a producer (Garrett Lee) and live drums.

Although the Postal Service and “poptronica” have been used to describe PlayRadioPlay!’s gentle beats and keyboard-centric songs, Hunter has created his own phrase to describe the sound. “It’s Texas Straight-edge Softcore,” he says, laughing. “I mean, I’m making fun of straight-edge hardcore…a genre that I am not. Why can’t there be straight-edge softcore?”

PlayRadioPlay! will be on tour this spring with Yellowcard promoting ‘TEXAS’ due out March 18, 2008 on Island Records.

Spring 2008 tour dates with Yellowcard and The Spill Canvas:

Dates could be added or changed! Go to PlayRadioPlay’s Official Website for the latest tour dates and information.

March 07 Salt Lake City, UT Avalon
March 08 Denver, CO Gothic
March 10 St. Paul, MN Station 4
March 11 Chicago, IL Metro
March 13 Detroit, MI Majestic Theater
March 14 Cleveland, OH House of Blues
March 15 New York, NY Irving Plaza
March 16 Boston, MA Middle East
March 17 Philadelphia, PA Trocadero
March 19 Baltimore, MD Recher
March 20 Greensboro, NC Green Street
March 21 Atlanta, GA Masquerade
March 22 Orlando, FL House of Blues
March 24 Tampa, FL State Theater
March 28 New Orleans, LA House of Blues
March 29 Austin, TX Emo’s
March 31 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theatre
April 03 Boise, ID Big Easy
April 04 Seattle, WA El Corazon
April 05 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theater
April 06 San Francisco, CAGreat American Music Hall
April 08 Ventura, CA Ventura Theatre
April 10 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues
April 11 San Diego, CA House of Blues
April 12 Los Angeles, CA House of Blues

For more information, visit:

PlayRadioPlay! Official Website
PlayRadioPlay! on Myspace (New song posted from ‘Texas’ “Madi Don’t Leave”)

2007 has been the year in which The Coral put the problems of the past behind them and re-emerged stronger and brighter than ever. Their current album, ‘Roots and Echoes’ was regarded across the board as a major return to form for a band who have been in the glare of the spotlight since their Top 10 eponymous debut in 2002.

With Q acclaiming lead singer and lyricist James Skelly as “one of the finest writers, and voices, in British music today”, NME seeing it as “the finest since their debut” and the Daily Mirror conclusively stating “you won’t find a better album this year”, the return of the Wirral six piece was the comeback of the year. Little wonder that ‘Roots and Echoes’ is noted in many of the end of year polls for albums of the year.

The year closed with the band playing three very special home town shows at Liverpool’s Academy with supports from long term fans The Twang and The View in addition to original home town heroes Shack.

2008 sees The Coral release a new single from ‘Roots and Echoes’ in the form of “Put The Sun Back”. The single is released on CD and two limited editions formats. Across the format are 3 exclusive new tracks, a live version of the single and the video.

Watch The Coral – “Put The Sun Back” video:

Details are as follows:

CD “Put The Sun Back” / “Willow Song” / “Put The Sun Back” (Live) / “Put The Sun Back” (Video)
7″ (1) “Put The Sun Back” / “The Dance Lingers On”
7″ (2) “Put The Sun Back” / “One Winters Day”

The Coral – Put the Sun Back on amazon.co.uk

“Put The Sun Back” video

The Coral on Myspace
The Coral Official Website

In a grand commemoration of the 50th Celebration of the GRAMMY® Awards, Shout! Factory and The Recording Academy®’s GRAMMY Recordings announce an electrifying 7-CD series encompassing GRAMMY winners from four of the legendary awards’ major genres.

With a personal introduction written by 27-time Grammy winner and 50th Celebration Ambassador Quincy Jones, this series is a sumptuous ode to the biggest hits in music history and a must-have for music lovers and collectors alike.

“We look forward to celebrating the past five decades of GRAMMY-winning music with music fans everywhere through our comprehensive CD compilations,” said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy. “It is exciting to have such classic recordings in the marketplace all at once; we hope people enjoy listening to some of the best music of the last half century as much as we did when compiling this remarkable catalogue of material.”

“We are thrilled at the opportunity to join The Recording Academy in celebration of this historic milestone,” says Shout! Factory CEO Richard Foos. “For 50 years, the GRAMMY Award has been recognized as music’s highest honor. This series pays tribute to the artists who have helped make it so.”

Ultimate GRAMMY® Collection: Contemporary R&B and Contemporary Pop was recently released on Nov. 27, 2007.

Just in time to get music fans primed and ready for the 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards to be held on February 10, 2008, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, five more Ultimate GRAMMY® Collection CDs will be released on January 8, 2008. Ultimate GRAMMY® Collection: Classic R&B, Classic Pop, Contemporary Rock, Classic Country and Contemporary Country.

A portion of the proceeds from the Ultimate GRAMMY Collection CD series will benefit the MusiCares Foundation® and The GRAMMY Foundation®, two charitable arms of The Recording Academy. MusiCares provides a safety net of critical health and human services and financial assistance for music people in times of need. The GRAMMY Foundation cultivates the understanding, appreciation and advancement of the contribution of recorded music to American culture through music education programs for young people and activities that promote and preserve music’s rich cultural heritage.

Shout! Factory

Shout! Factory is a diversified entertainment company devoted to producing, uncovering and revitalizing the very best of pop culture. Founders Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos have spent their careers sharing their music, television and film faves with discerning consumers the world over. Shout! Factory’s DVD offerings serve up classic, contemporary and cult TV series, riveting sports programs, live music, animation and documentaries in lavish packages crammed with extras.

The company’s audio catalogue boasts boxed sets, new releases from storied artists, lovingly assembled album reissues and indispensable “best of” compilations. These riches are the result of a creative acquisitions mandate that has established the company as a hotbed of cultural preservation and commercial reinvention. Shout! Factory is based in Santa Monica , California. Its fine products are distributed by Sony BMG Music Entertainment Inc. For more information, visit Shout! Factory Official Website

The Recording Academy

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards – the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music – The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. In its 50th year, The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit GRAMMY.COM.

Track Listings:

Ultimate GRAMMY® Collection: Contemporary R&B (November 27, 2007)

1. Anita Baker “Giving You The Best That I Got” (Single Version)
2. Terence Trent D’Arby “Wishing Well”
3. Soul II Soul Featuring Caron Wheeler “Back To Life (However Do You Want Me)”
4. Luther Vandross “Here And Now”
5. Ray Charles “A Song For You”
6. Sade “No Ordinary Love”
7. Toni Braxton “Breathe Again”
8. Boyz II Men “I’ll Make Love To You”
9. Blackstreet Featuring Dr. Dre “No Diggity”
10. R. Kelly “I Believe I Can Fly”
11. Brandy & Monica “The Boy Is Mine”
12. TLC “No Scrubs”
13. Whitney Houston “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay”
14. D’Angelo “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”
15. Usher “U Remind Me”
16. Beyonce Featuring Jay-Z “Crazy In Love”

Ultimate GRAMMY Collection: Contemporary Pop (November 27)

1. k.d. lang “Constant Craving”
2. Seal “Kiss From A Rose”
3. Annie Lennox “No More I Love You’s”
4. Eric Clapton “Change The World”
5. Shawn Colvin “Sunny Came Home”
6. Sarah McLachlan “Building A Mystery”
7. Jamiroquai “Virtual Insanity”
8. The Brian Setzer Orchestra “Jump Jive An’ Wail”
9. Madonna “Ray Of Light”
10. Macy Gray “I Try”
11. Nelly Furtado “I’m Like A Bird”
12. Norah Jones “Don’t Know Why”
13. Justin Timberlake “Cry Me A River”
14. Los Lonely Boys “Heaven”
15. Kelly Clarkson “Since U Been Gone”
16. John Mayer “Gravity”

Ultimate GRAMMY Collection: Classic R&B (January 8, 2008)

1. Aretha Franklin “Respect”
2. Sam & Dave “Soul Man”
3. Otis Redding “(Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay”
4. The Isley Brothers “It’s Your Thing”
5. Ike & Tina Turner “Proud Mary”
6. Bill Withers “Ain’t No Sunshine”
7. Billy Paul “Me And Mrs. Jones”
8. The Temptations “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone” (Single Version)
9. Gladys Knight & The Pips “Midnight Train To Georgia”
10. Natalie Cole “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)”
11. The Emotions “Best Of My Love”
12. Donna Summer “Last Dance”
13. Earth, Wind & Fire “After The Love Has Gone”
14. Marvin Gaye “Sexual Healing”
15. Rufus and Chaka Khan “Ain’t Nobody”
16. Commodores “Nightshift” (Album Version)

Ultimate GRAMMY Collection: Classic Pop January 8

1. Petula Clark “Downtown”
2. The Mamas & The Papas “Monday, Monday”
3. Jose Feliciano “Light My Fire”
4. Harry Nilsson “Everybody’s Talkin’”
5. The 5th Dimension “Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In (The Flesh Failures)”
6. Dionne Warwick “I’ll Never Fall In Love Again”
7. Captain & Tennille “Love Will Keep Us Together”
8. Janis Ian “At Seventeen”
9. Bee Gees “How Deep Is Your Love”
10. The Doobie Brothers “What A Fool Believes”
11. Kenny Loggins “This Is It”
12. Toto “Rosanna”
13. Tina Turner “What’s Love Got To Do With It”
14. Phil Collins “Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now)”
15. Steve Winwood “Higher Love”
16. Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life”

Ultimate GRAMMY Collection: Contemporary Rock January 8

1. Living Colour “Cult Of Personality”
2. Melissa Etheridge “Ain’t It Heavy”
3. Soul Asylum “Runaway Train”
4. Stone Temple Pilots “Plush”
5. Soundgarden “Black Hole Sun”
6. Blues Traveler “Run-Around” (Album version)
7. Tracy Chapman “Give Me One Reason”
8. The Smashing Pumpkins “Bullet With Butterfly Wings”
9. The Chemical Brothers “Block Rockin’ Beats”
10. Fiona Apple “Criminal”
11. Lenny Kravitz “Fly Away”
12. Coldplay “In My Place”
13. Dave Matthews “Gravedigger”
14. The White Stripes “Seven Nation Army”
15. Evanescence “Bring Me To Life”
16. Green Day “Boulevard Of Broken Dreams”

Ultimate GRAMMY Collection: Classic Country January 8

1. Roger Miller “King Of The Road”
2. Jeannie C. Riley “Harper Valley P.T.A.”
3. Tammy Wynette “Stand By Your Man”
4. Johnny Cash “A Boy Named Sue”
5. Lynn Anderson “Rose Garden”
6. Ray Price “For The Good Times”
7. Johnny Cash & June Carter “If I Were A Carpenter”
8. Jerry Reed “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot”
9. Donna Fargo “Happiest Girl In The Whole U.S.A.”
10. Crystal Gayle “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue”
11. Waylon Jennings & Willie Nelson “Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys”
12. Kenny Rogers “The Gambler”
13. The Charlie Daniels Band “The Devil Went Down To Georgia”
14. George Jones “He Stopped Loving Her Today”
15. Dolly Parton “9 To 5″
16. Willie Nelson “Always On My Mind”

Ultimate GRAMMY Collection: Contemporary Country January 8

1. Vince Gill “When I Call Your Name”
2. Mary Chapin Carpenter “Down At The Twist And Shout”
3. The Judds “Love Can Build A Bridge”
4. Brooks & Dunn “Hard Workin’ Man”
5. Dwight Yoakam “Ain’t That Lonely Yet”
6. Asleep At The Wheel and Lyle Lovett “Blues For Dixie”
7. The Mavericks “Here Comes The Rain”
8. LeAnn Rimes “Blue”
9. Alison Krauss and Union Station “Looking In The Eyes Of Love”
10. Trisha Yearwood “How Do I Live”
11. George Jones “Choices”
12. June Carter Cash “Keep On The Sunny Side”
13. Tim McGraw “Live Like You Were Dying”
14. Gretchen Wilson “Redneck Woman”
15. Emmylou Harris “The Connection”
16. Carrie Underwood “Jesus, Take The Wheel”

Ultimate Grammy Collection: Contemporary Pop on amazon.com

For more information, please visit the Ultimate GRAMMY Collection Official Website

Epic/Legacy Recordings proudly celebrates the 25th anniversary of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, the world’s biggest-selling album of all time, with a newly expanded deluxe edition of the phenomenal record-breaking pop culture touchstone, available in the U.K February 11, 2008.

The Michael Jackson Thriller 25th anniversary celebration kicks off in December 2007 and continues throughout 2008 with the release of a new single and a multi-faceted global marketing campaign featuring high-profile television, radio and online events around the world.

The Thriller – 25th Anniversary Edition will include the original album in its entirety as well as eight bonus tracks and a DVD featuring Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking short films from Thriller (“Thriller,” “Beat It,” and “Billie Jean”) and the artist’s Emmy-nominated breakout performance of “Billie Jean” from the legendary “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever” television special (first broadcast on NBC on May 16, 1983).

The newly expanded version of Thriller premieres five tracks previously unreleased in any form: a new Kanye West remix of “Billie Jean”; a new 2008 version of “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” with Akon and will.i.am; will.i.am remixes of “The Girl Is Mine” and “P.Y.T.”; and “For All Time,” a rare unreleased cut from the original Thriller recording sessions, newly mixed and mastered by Michael Jackson.

Additional bonus material on the Thriller – 25th Anniversary Edition includes “Someone In The Dark,” “Carousel,” and Michael Jackson’s original demo recording of “Billie Jean.”

The deluxe Thriller – 25th Anniversary Edition packaging contains a personal greeting from Michael Jackson to his fans penned exclusively for this special release.

Originally released 25 years ago early December 1982 by Epic Records, Thriller, Michael Jackson’s sixth solo album and second with producer Quincy Jones, rocketed the former child-star lead singer for the Jackson 5 into the stratosphere of international superstardom. Introducing the “robot” and the “moonwalk” into the international lexicon of clubland dance moves via the pulsing sounds of Thriller, Michael Jackson revolutionized all aspects of mainstream pop culture – from radio airwaves to the newly emerging art form of music videos – becoming the world’s most popular entertainer in the process.

The original Thriller spent an astounding 80 consecutive weeks in the American Top 10, 37 of those at #1. Seven of the album’s original nine tracks became Top 10 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 while individual singles from Thriller reached #1 chart positions in the US, the UK, France, Italy, Australia, Denmark, Belgium, South Africa, Spain, Ireland, New Zealand and Canada.

Thriller made history as the first and only record to be America’s top-selling album two years running (1983 and 1984).

Thriller has been certified 27x platinum by the RIAA, giving it Double Diamond Award status in the US. In addition, the album has achieved Diamond or Multi-Platinum status in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland and the UK. Thriller was named the Best Selling Album of All Time by the Guinness Book of Records in 1985.

In February 1984, Michael Jackson held a record-breaking 12 Grammy nominations, going on to win eight, which stands as the record for most Grammy Awards to be won by anyone in a single year. Seven of Michael’s Grammys that year were for Thriller: Album of the Year; Record of the Year (”Beat It”); Best Male Pop Vocal Performance (”Thriller”); Best Engineered Recording, Non-Classical (Thriller); Best Male Rock Vocal Performance (”Beat It”); Best Male R&B Vocal Performance (”Billie Jean”); Best R&B Song (”Billie Jean”) (Michael’s eighth Grammy that year was in the Best Recording For Children – Single or Album, Musical or Spoken category for “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial”). That same year, Michael Jackson took home eight American Music Awards and three MTV Video Music Awards. The following year, “The Making of Michael Jackson’s Thriller” took home the Best Video Album trophy at the 27th Annual Grammy Awards.

Named the “Most Successful Entertainer of All Time” by the Guinness World Records, Michael Jackson is among the most highly acclaimed and influential artists in pop culture. He was named the World Music Award’s Best-Selling Pop Male Artist of the Millennium and received the American Music Award’s Artist of the Century Award. He has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame twice: in 1997 as a member of the Jackson 5 and as a solo artist in 2001.

Thriller – 25th Anniversary Edition

Thriller – original track listing – US Billboard Chart Peaks

“Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” – (#5 Hot 100, #5 R&B)
“Baby Be Mine”
“The Girl Is Mine” (with Paul McCartney) – (#2 Hot 100, #1 R&B, #1 Adult Contemporary)
Thriller” – (#4 Hot 10, #3 Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks)
“Beat It” – (#1 Hot 100, #1 R&B)
“Billie Jean” – (#1 Hot 100, #1 R&B, #9 A/C)
“Human Nature” – (#7 Hot 100, #2 Adult Contemporary)
“P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” – (#10 Hot 100)
“The Lady in My Life”

Bonus Material:

10. Someone In the Dark ^
11. Billie Jean (Michael Jackson’s original demo recording) ^
12. Carousel ^

Previously Unreleased Tracks For 25th Anniversary Edition

13. The Girl Is Mine – 2008 with will.i.am*
14. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) – 2008 with Michael Jackson and will.i.am*
15. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ – 2008 with Michael Jackson, Akon and will.i.am*
16. Billie Jean – 2008 with Kanye West*
17. For All Time (unreleased track from original Thriller sessions)*

^ – From 2001 Thriller Special Edition

* – previously unreleased

Bonus DVD

The Videos

1. Thriller
2. Beat It
3. Billie Jean
4. Billie Jean performance from Motown 25: Yesterday, Today and Forever

25th Anniversary Executive Producer: Michael Jackson
Original Album Produced by Quincy Jones for Quincy Jones Productions

Thriller [25th Anniversary Edition CD + DVD] on amazon.co.uk (Release date: February 11, 2008 UK)

Michael Jackson 25th Anniversary of Thriller (Enhanced) on amazon.com (Release date: February 12th, 2008 US)

Michael Jackson on Myspace

For some, it’s not cool to like Justin Timberlake. For others, he’s the one. The Prince of Pop. The ‘it’ guy.

The more singles that Justin Timberlake releases, the more he’s growing on me. His voice, the harmonies, the feel of the mix and the production on his songs are quality. When I first heard “Cry Me A River” I thought, “What is this?” It’s got to be one of the best pop songs that I’ve heard so far in the 21st century.

Also, people want to work with him. His collaborations with other singers, producers and musicians confirms to me that there is ’something there’ when it comes to not only his music, but his character as well. Established names in the music industry like 50 Cent, Missy Elliott, Beyonce, Nelly Furtado, Timbaland, Rick Rubin, Reba McEntire, Duran Duran and Snoop Dog are just a few of the names that he’s already worked with.

On November 25th, 2007 Channel 4 in England aired FutureSex/LoveShow, Justin Timberlake’s August 2007 concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City. I just happened to turn on the TV just a few minutes into the 2-hour show. I didn’t plan on watching the whole thing, but that’s what I ended up doing.

I can’t recall ever seeing live footage of a Justin Timberlake concert like the FutureSex/LoveShow before. I was impressed. The concert came across as a great party atmosphere that included a spectacular light show with songs from the ‘FutureSex/LoveSounds’ album and more. The dancers were fun to watch – dressed in casual clothes most of the time – with the exception of the strippers/dancers for one of the songs!

At times Justin would dance on his own, which takes some nerve and a lot of confidence. The backup singers sounded and looked good. Timbaland made a guest appearance and for some songs, Justin played the piano/keyboard. His voice sounded great when he was dancing and he seems to be at the top of his game.

The word Future in both the title of his show and his album seems appropriate. With all that he’s done so far, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for Justin Timberlake. It seems for him, the sky is the limit.

The FutureSex/LoveShow that aired on TV didn’t include all that is available on the DVD that has just been released. It mainly showed the live performances with just some backstage footage.

Here’s a track listing that I found for the Australian DVD release…not sure if this is the same track listing for the US and UK release:

(Unconfirmed Track Listing)

Disk 1
1. DVD1: Opening Conversation
2. FutureSex/LoveSounds
3. Like I Love You
4. My Love
5. Senorita
6. Sexy Ladies
7. Until The End Of Time
8. What Goes Around…/…COMES Around
9. Chop Me Up
10. Intermission – Jt & Timbaland
11. Rock Your Body
12. Gone
13. Take It From Here
14. Last Night
15. Damn Girl
16. Summer Love
17. Losing My Way
18. Cry Me A River
19. Lovestoned / I Think She Knows
20. Sexyback
21. (Another Song) All Over Again
22. Goodnights & Credits

Disk 2
1. DVD2: 1 On 1 With Jt
2. The Making Of FutureSex/LoveShow
3. Open Mic
4. Under The Stage
5. Lovestoned/I Think She Knows (Justice Remix)

Futuresex/Loveshow – Live from Madison Square Garden DVD on amazon.com

FutureSex/LoveShow DVD on amazon.co.uk

For more information go to:

Justin Timberlake Official Website

By: Jenny May – Band Weblogs

Sergey Lazarev is without a doubt one of the most successful singers in Russia today. Before going solo, Sergey, a multi-talented singer, dancer and actor, started out in a band called Neposedi which also included Julia and Lena who later formed Tatu.

He then went on to form pop duo, Smash!! with childhood friend Vlad Topalov. They were signed by Universal Music Russia, had five Number 1 hits, airplay on MTV Russia, numerous awards and millions of copies were sold in Russia, CIS and South East Asia.

Sergey’s debut solo album ‘Don’t Be Fake’, released in Russia, instantly sold more than 300,000 copies which led to the prestigious Russian National Music TV Channel’s MUZ TV Award as “Best New Act” in 2006.

After having recent success in the UK club charts, Sergey is now set to release his latest single, “Everytime” on December 3rd, 2007 in the UK.

Sergey was gracious enough to take some time out for this exclusive interview with me for BandWeblogs.com.

Jenny May: Can you tell us about your latest single, “Everytime”? How it came to be your next UK release?

Sergey: “Everytime” is the second single from my new album. The first single “Shattered Dreams” is very dynamic, so I wanted the next one to be kind of sad, and especially the fall is the time of the year that has something melancholic about it in the air. But the remixes of “Everytime” will make everyone jump up.

Do you write your songs? If so, what is your song writing process like? Or if not – how do you select your songs?

I have lots of ideas about music, the ways it should sound, its concepts and creativity, but as for writing music it’s kind of difficult for me so far…that’s why the songs for me are written by professionals. But I always take an active part in the process.

Who are your musical influences?

There are many artists whose work I respect and I listen to their songs a lot. I have over 100 cds of different artists and music styles in my car. What I really like are the artists who make an incredible and bright show out of their performance on stage. I respect and admire artists who have a lot to say by their work, real leaders, artists who are not afraid of experiments and radical changes…

What are your views on western music?

I think that Russian music and show business in general have a lot to learn and to look up at…I think there’s such a massive stream of new music coming and it’s very hard for young artists to make their ways without the support of a serious big label. And the audience is becoming very picky – it’s very hard to surprise it with something.

Have you toured the UK and/or the US? Do you have any plans for a large scale tour?

I have this idea in my future plans. But there’s so much to be done before I go on a big tour. So far I have a lot of concerts around Russia and other neighboring countries. I have a perfect team of dancers and musicians from Britain with me. And of course my dream is to perform with my new show in Britain.

Do you keep in touch with your old Neposedi band mates, Julia and Lena (who went on to form Tatu)?

Of course we do. We are good old friends. Julia and I are very close…always supporting and helping each other. She is like a sister to me.

What is your favorite style of music?

As for me, the right style of music is the one which is best to your mood and situation at a specific moment…

Do you have plans to act in more projects in the future? If so, what?

I have taken part in many projects in my life – different TV projects as well as contests. The last two of them were Dancing on Ice, where I took the 2nd prize and Circus with the Stars, where I was the winner. I used to spend lots of time training and as you can see the results speak for themselves. But at the moment I am 100% in music.

Do you prefer to act or sing?

I just love being on stage…I feel totally comfortable there. I remember myself singing since childhood and I can’t imagine my life without music at all. Music under my skin…by the way, the song with the same title is in my new album.

How and/or why did you start singing and performing?

Since childhood I was a very energetic kid: was doing something, jumping, running around all the time – and never had a minute of rest. When I turned 6 years old my parents took me to a sports school, but because of the injury I got, I had to leave professional sport at the age of 8. But except for being a very sportive child I was good at singing, that’s why after I had to quit gymnastics, I started taking vocal classes…and since then I have been singing…

Since you started in the music business at a young age, what are your feelings about child stars and do you think you’ve coped well in the business?

It is obvious that it is very hard to be in the centre of everybody’s attention since a very young age. At a certain point you are getting used to being very successful and it’s hard to surprise you with anything, and you start to want more and more, which you don’t get all the time, as success is a very unsteady thing, so sooner or later you start lacking it. Then the panic starts, sometimes you get depressed, you don’t know what to do and which way to go. I have been through that. At a moment like that, it is very important that your close friends and your family are with you – they can always help you to go through hard times.

Do you prefer the recording process or performing live?

I really enjoy recording songs at the studio. But there’s nothing compared to a live concert. I love touring. And now when I have an incredible team of dancers and musicians that I work together with – it is even more exciting!!!

For music, news, tour dates and more, go to Sergey Lazarev Official Website and Sergey on Myspace.

Sometimes it can be difficult having an open ear for all genres of music. Especially when it comes to explaining to my hardcore rock, metal or indie friends that I do indeed like Celine Dion. It’s even more difficult for me to keep my feelings to myself about how great an entertainer and singer she is. Luckily there are some people in my life who do appreciate her as well, and considering she’s sold over 180 million albums, I suppose there are some others out there who understand her talent as much as I do if not more.

I was really hoping that one day I would be able see her show in Vegas during her five year stint at Caesars Palace. She’s at her best when performing live and is such a character. Unfortunately I won’t be able to see her in Las Vegas since her last show will be this December, and then she’s off on a world tour which starts February 14th, 2008 in South Africa, to the delight of her fans around the world I’m sure.

‘Taking Chances’ is Celine Dion’s latest album, set for release November 12th, 2007 in the UK. I’ve got my hands on it and have been enjoying it. Let’s just get this out of the way: ‘Taking Chances’ is full of pop with elements of modern country, soul and power ballads and if that’s what you’re after, then this full 16 track Deluxe Edition CD + exclusive sneak peak DVD (with Vegas footage!) is for you.

Recently I reviewed opening track “Taking Chances”, written by Kara DioGuardi and Dave Stewart and I still feel that it could be the best pop ballad I’ve heard all year.

When “Alone” came on it took me by surprise and I was singing so loud along with the track I had to play it again to hear Celine’s singing – which of course her “punchier” version of Heart’s pop ballad hit from ‘87, produced by Ben Moody, sounds great. I especially like the intro – it’s gorgeous the way the bass comes in and then the cello and Celine’s voice.

“Surprise Surprise” also written by Kara DioGuardi, is a stand out track with a contemporary/country/pop feel. I wouldn’t be surprised (no pun intended) if it gets released sometime around Christmas and reached #1, but I’m just not sure if the lyrics would suit for Christmas, though. I am sure that when Celine performs “Surprise Surprise” live during her tour, it will be one of the big crowd pleasers of the night.

There’s a Barbara Streisand “No More Tears” feel to Celine’s vocal performance on the emotionally driven and atmospheric “This Time”, with the determined lyrics about being “another victim of poison love”.

It’s good to hear two Linda Perry (4 Non Blondes) songs included on the ‘Taking Chances’ album. The piano-lead “My Love” and the superb gospel number “New Dawn”. Linda Perry not only wrote the songs, but she also plays electric and acoustic guitars, organ, mellotron and piano on “My Love” and she plays piano, acoustic, sings background vocals on “New Dawn” and engineered and produced on both tracks.

“A World To Believe In” could have been a Faith Hill song, but it’s good to hear Celine Dion singing on such a beautiful and modern-country tinged song. There’s quite a change of pace when the upbeat and big production of “Can’t Fight The Feeling” starts up and I can’t believe that Shaffer Smith aka Ne-Yo co-wrote, co-produced and sings background vocals on the ballad “I Got Nothing Left”, another great vocal performance by Celine. It’s easy to forget that it’s Celine Dion singing to the waltz beat of “Right Next To The Right One”. It sounds quite different from what I’m used to hearing her sing – and I like it.

I’m not so sure about “Just Fade Away”. It has a Kelly Clarkson/Eurovision feel to it, which isn’t the best combination in the world. Then again, Celine Dion did win the Eurovision Song Contest when she represented Switzerland in 1988. There’s obviously a market for “Just Fade Away”, but not for me.

Blues number “That’s Just The Woman In Me” makes up for it, though. It has a Sam Cooke “Bring It On Home To Me”/Aretha Franklin feel with Celine Dion’s soulful vocals – and a Janis Joplin like scream at the end.

Let’s not forget about the additional exclusive sneak peak DVD! It includes the trailer for Celine Dion’s “A New Day Live In Las Vegas” with interview clips. There are also four exclusive songs, including one of my favorite Celine cover songs, “I Drove All Night” originally recorded by Roy Orbison and then Cyndi Lauper.

I highly recommend this Deluxe Edition CD/DVD for Celine Dion fans everywhere!

Celine Dion ‘Taking Chances’ album track listing:

1. Taking Chances
2. Alone
3. Eyes On Me
4. My Love
5. Shadow Of Love
6. Surprise Surprise
7. This Time
8. New Dawn
9. A Song For You
10. A World To Believe In
11. Can’t Fight The Feeling
12. I Got Nothing Left
13. Right Next To The Right One
14. Just Fade Away
15. That’s Just The Woman In Me
16. Skies Of L.A.

DVD track listing:

1. Trailer for the DVD “Live In Las Vegas – A New Day”
2. The Power of Love
3. I Drove All Night
4. I Surrender
5. I Wish

Celine Dion – Taking Chances album on amazon.com

Celine Dion Official Website

By: Jenny May – Band Weblogs

Celine Dion is finally back in the spotlight for the world to see and hear. As her five year stint at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas comes to a close, she’s set to release her latest album, ‘Taking Chances’ and her new single by the same name, along with a world tour scheduled to begin on February 14th, 2008.

(Read the Celine Dion ‘Taking Chances’ album + DVD review.)

“Taking Chances” was written by BMI’s 2007 Pop Songwriter of The Year Kara Dioguardi, one of the most sought after songwriters in pop music today and Dave Stewart (Eurythmics). They’ve come up with what could be for me, the best pop ballad of the year – with Celine Dion on vocals.

There are quite a few mixed feelings about Celine Dion, maybe for some, her music is a bit too glossy. I think she has a beautiful voice and is a class act entertainer. I remember the first time I saw her perform live on TV. At the time I think I was just making my mind up about her. After her performance I thought she was the most unique, quirky, fun and talented singer that I had seen in a long time. There is simply no one like her. Celine Dion is her own woman.

The new single “Taking Chances” sends a message and Celine Dion is able to convey that message perfectly. There’s so much passion within her vocal performance, it would be difficult not to hear the lyrics and understand what the song is about – taking a chance, living life on the edge with someone that you don’t know very well, not worrying about the consequences of your actions.

With the gradual build up of the song, it’s wonderful to hear Celine’s delicate intro and then later the crescendo, with the anxious and passionate question, “What do you say to taking chances? What do you say to jumping off the edge, never knowing if there’s solid ground below, or hand to hold, or hell to pay. What do you say, What do you say?”

Watch Celine Dion “Taking Chances” video:

Celine Dion – Taking Chances on amazon.com

“Taking Chances” video link

Celine Dion Official Website

By: Jenny May – Band Weblogs

Related: Celine Dion debuts new single “Taking Chances” + world tour

The Disclaimer are set to release their first single, “As Long As It Takes” on November 5th 2007 in the UK. “As Long As It Takes” is the North West London indie/pop trio’s debut release off of their self titled first studio album out on November 12th.

After their recent stint of London shows, the timing couldn’t be better for The Disclaimer to be releasing their upcoming single. The Disclaimer’s live show is one of the reasons for their recent jump into popularity – their harmonies are a treat, their live sound is tight and they unfailingly please the crowd with their extraordinary stage performance.

“As Long As It Takes” is a great example of the melodic harmonies that The Disclaimer produce. The single is so ‘now’ sounding with its ska/indie edge, that it could easily sit alongside songs like “Torn On The Platform” by Jack Penate and “Foundations” by Kate Nash in any self respecting pop lover’s playlist.

The Disclaimer on Myspace

Leona Lewis has just released new single, “Bleeding Love” off of her debut album ‘Spirit’, set for release November 12th, 2007 on SonyBMG. The X-Factor 2006 winner has been in LA recording her album, working with Simon Cowell, Clive Davis as well as top producers and songwriters.

After performing on X-Factor last Saturday night, Leona was on GMTV’s LK Today this morning talking about the new single and the upcoming album release. She said that she was involved in the songwriting process on some of the songs and was happy to release original material rather than all covers. She also performed “Bleeding Love” live. From what I could see it was just Leona and a backing track – no band.

Leona Lewis’ voice still sounds great – if not better than when she was on the X-Factor. “Bleeding Love” is catchy and is sure to make a grand entrance into the UK pop charts, especially considering her fans have been waiting quite some time for the opportunity to go out and buy her new single.

Watch Leona Lewis – “Bleeding Love” video:

Bleeding Love YouTube video link

Leona Lewis – “Bleeding Love” on amazon.co.uk

Spirit on amazon.co.uk

Leona Lewis Official Website

By: Jenny May

With indigenous national origins that date back as far as 300 AD, Delilah, a pure gypsy (Romanyi) artist, has a cultural and musical heritage that has survived and transcended centuries of persecution. Coming to North America and emerging herself in today’s music, Delilah has created a niche for her style and the heritage she represents. With origins dating back to in India over 1,000 years ago, Delilah’s family was part of several major gypsy dispersals to Eastern and Western Europe in the 14th Century.

Born in Budapest, Hungary, Delilah, her sister and two brothers, learned the rituals of classic Roma music from their parents from early childhood. By the age of 10, she was singing and dancing with her family in a 20-member touring ensemble with one of Hungary’s noted Roma performers, Bongo Margit, throughout Europe. By the time she was 16, she and her older brother Paul Lakatos, a guitar virtuoso, were playing jazz music and performing with violinist Sonny Walker, another Roma legend, who jammed regularly with her father and family at impromptu gatherings in her home.

In order to escape racial tension in Hungary and fearing for the safety of his family after a brutal attack on his daughters, Delilah’s father sought refuge and political asylum in Toronto, Canada in 1998.

At 19, Delilah, with her brother, started performing in Toronto’s jazz clubs, where they started to develop some local notoriety. Her brother’s exemplary guitar skills caught the attention of guitarist Dave Sereny, which ultimately led to an introduction to Delilah. Floored with her musical gifts, Sereny immediately signed her to his Canadian label, Groove United.

With a voice that easily floats between electronic pop and R&B, Delilah is a passionate vocalist. She understands that music has the power to ignite the human spirit. “A lot of my songs are about love. I think love is the most important thing in the world,” said Delilah.

Delilah creates a burning visual in “The Way You Love Me.” With captivating words like “Your heart, your soul, your dreams, it’s all in the way..in the way you love me,” the listener is hopelessly captured in the moment…forced to surrender to the compelling melodies and vocals that shimmer like silk.

Listen: MP3 – “The Way You Love Me”

Living in the musical moment is the magic that creates the Delilah sound. With fire, conviction and pure passion, she has revamped her musical framework around a radio friendly/contemporary pop sound for the next album. Currently, she in the studio wrapping up the tracks for her early 2008 release.

For more information on Delilah, please visit:

Delilah Official Website
Delilah on Myspace

Along with his pink haired helper Stephanie – Sportacus, the lycra clad superhero, is taking over the world! With the healthy message and fun show, kids and parents alike LOVE LazyTown. It is already a phenomenon across the globe (currently broadcasting in 109 countries) and continues to top the Children’s TV ratings on CBeebies and Nick Jr.

Playing a BIG part of every episode is the music. Following on from the hugely successful first LazyTown album, which has already sold in excess of 150,000 copies in the UK, GTV brings you LazyTown – The New Album & Bonus DVD, out on 15th October 2007 and packed full of even more fun, energetic and exciting pop songs guaranteed to get the whole family up on their feet.

LazyTown – The New Album will be released to coincide with the first ever LazyTown National tour starting in October 2007. The New Album will feature 45 tracks including new songs from the new episodes, as well as the smash hit single “Bing Bang (Time To Dance)” which sold over 50,000 copies and went straight in at No. 4 in the UK singles charts. Also a brand new version of the LazyTown Theme.

As well as all of this there is also a fun packed bonus DVD containing 12 Sing-Along videos and interactive LazyTown games.

So get ready to grab your sports candy, and bust out the moves – LazyTown – The NEW Album is about to hop-skip and jump into the shops!

LazyTown CD Tracklist:

1) No One Is Lazy In LazyTown (Get Up And Go Mix)
2) Bing Bang Rock
3) When We Play In A Band
4) We Will Be Friends
5) We Got Energy
6) Time To Start The Show
7) Time To Play
The Greatest Genie
9) Techno Generation
10) Story Time
11) Snow, Give Me Snow
12) Playing On The Playground
13) New Games Everyday
14) Let’s Go
15) Lazy Rockets
16) I Wanna Dance
17) I Like Learning
18) Fun To Be The Mayor
19) Colours
20) Clean Up
21) No One Is Lazy In LazyTown (Get Up And Go Mix) – Instrumental
22) Bing Bang Rock – Instrumental
23) When We Play In A Band – Instrumental
24) We Will Be Friends – Instrumental
25) We Got Energy – Instrumental
26) Time To Start The Show – Instrumental
27) Time To Play – Instrumental
28) The Greatest Genie – Instrumental
29) Techno Generation – Instrumental
30) Story Time – Instrumental
31) Snow, Give Me Snow – Instrumental
32) Playing On The Playground – Instrumental
33) New Games Everyday – Instrumental
34) Let’s Go – Instrumental
35) Lazy Rockets – Instrumental
36) I Wanna Dance – Instrumental
37) I Like Learning – Instrumental
38) Fun to Be The Mayor – Instrumental
39) Colours – Instrumental
40) Clean Up – Instrumental
41) Bing Bang (Time to Dance Single Mix)
42) Welcome To LazyTown (Christmas Version)
43) Anything Can Happen
44) Good To Be Bad
45) Bing Bang (Circus Version)

LazyTown Bonus DVD:

When We Play In A Band
Techno Generation
Time To Start The Show
Lazy Rockets
Playing On The Playground
Let’s Go
Colours
Story Time
We Got Energy
It’s Fun To Be The Mayor
We Will Be Friends
New Games Every Day
PLUS Interactive DVD games

LazyTown – The New Album CD with Bonus DVD at Play.com

Seattle based “party rock super group” United State Of Electronica (or U.S.E.) has been creating quite a buzz around their live shows – and on the dance floor. They’ve toured the US and internationally including shows at clubs and festivals in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan. Now U.S.E. is releasing their latest single, “Open Your Eyes” on Concept Music in the UK. With electronica pulses and disco beats, their infamous vocoder and party attitude, U.S.E. is sure to continue to win over the hearts of pop music fans from around the world.

United State Of Electronica (U.S.E.) interview with BandWeblogs.com
Compiled by Dave Tommo

Dave Tommo: How many people are in your band and who does what?

U.S.E.: There are anywhere from 7 (core musicians) to about 100 people on stage. The other 89 are dancing robots w/ healthy, human hearts. Jon e. “Blades” Rock – drums, Lightweight Luva, rice pilaf Derek “Shadowz” Chan – bass, death stare, vice grip Carly “Skullz” Nicklaus – Diva vocals, Mexi-fresh-seeker-outer Amanda “Eaglez” Khanjian – Diva vocals, tempo adjusta, Make-it-in-the-Big-Apple-well-wisher Peter “Danger Zone” Sali – Guitar, bloody murder screams Jason “Snake” Holstrom – Guitar, fist pumper, gun slinga Noah “Legendz” Weaver – Keys, robots, world hugger.

Are you looking for world domination or are you after something bigger?

If by world domination you mean for everyone to like us and to follow our commands, that would be a bit too much responsibility, because the old adage “absolute power corrupts absolutely” kind of scares us; we would just end up ordering people to get us things like macadamia nut ice cream and back massages w/ cloud blossom and cherub b.o. scented lotion. But from an empyreal point of view, we could just get the world together for one big party and leave our negative beliefs outside of the party grounds and perhaps something that changes the course of history for the better might take place. That may be more appropriate than world dominatrix.

Why would it be good if it was the 70’s again?

People would dance in many different ways, there would only be really huge carphones for the super rich, no Bush regime, cheaper cereal, no SUV’s except cool looking range rovers, vista lite drumsets were easier to find, and Led Zeppelin didn’t wear pleated slacks and flowery silk shirts (until 1979).

Is ABBA the best pop band ever? If not who?

ABBA is one of the best of course, but they have plenty of good company. Jamiroquai, Daft Punk, Barry White, George McRea, Autograph, Snake Lion, Al B. Sure, Steely Dan, Jungle Toa Toa and his Rubber band, Weezer, Refreshments, Garrison Starr, Dolour, Oasis, Hurricane Chris, this list is getting too long.

Where would your ideal gig be?

On top of the World on a large oak platform surrounded by marshmallows and lollipops.

Where would you be without your vocoder?

Somewhere in Lichtenstein opening a restaurant called “Delish Lichtenstish”.

What is the best thing about Seattle?

The landscape. Being able to see snow capped mountains, oceans and forests from one vantage point – then deciding to go record music at these landmarks which are all only an hour away in most any direction.

What was it like playing in Japan?

It was as amazing as you can imagine it to be. The people, food, and architecture are truly awe-inspiring.

Did you go to any good parties there?

Yes, but what goes on in Japan stays in Japan. Though it can be said that what their drug culture lacks, they more than make up for in raw food and rice wine.

How do you record in the studio?

As mentioned earlier, we find a cabin on a mountain lake, a barn, in the woods, or in our guitar players basement studio, or even a pro set up, and knock out the riffs after pressing the red record button.

What would you say is the most important tool in your box?

The hi hat. And the floor thomas.

Where do you like to unwind?

Usually in fields, lakes, and/or helicopters or stress factories.

What movies (if any) inspire U.S.E.?

Weekend at Bernie’s part II and Cool Runnings.

What’s on your rider?

Red Bull, water and towels. If you want to know the miscellaneous you can throw us a party.

Will you be at Glastonbury in 2008?

We would love to be at this historic, magnanimous event. Will you be at our barn raising in 2009?

We would love to.

For more information:

United State Of Electronica Official Website
U.S.E. on Myspace

For some reason I’ve had the song, “Where The Wild Roses Grow” by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds and Kylie Minogue going around my head today. It’s such a beautiful and haunting song.

I hadn’t heard “Where The Wild Roses Grow” until I moved to England and a friend turned me on to the song via the video a couple years ago. I never knew Kylie could sound so good. I’m not a huge Kylie fan, but since I heard this song, I’ve continued to keep an open mind and hope that one day she’ll record something with a similar feel. Of course, Nick Cave sounds good and their voices work well together on the track, which he wrote and was originally released in 1995.

Watch Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds + Kylie Minogue – “Where The Wild Roses Grow” video:

Kylie is set to release her tenth studio album, ‘X’ on November 26, 2007. “Sensitized”, one of the tracks expected to be on the album and apparently written by Guy Chambers, Cathy Dennis and Serge Gainsbourg, sounds pretty good – though I’m hoping that before it’s released “they’ll” remove the woo sounds in the background and “clean up” the muddy bass – but most likely doubtful at this point.

Either way, something tells me that ‘X’ is going to be a BIG album for Kylie.

“Where The Wild Roses Grow” YouTube video link

Kylie Official Website

By: Jenny May – Band Weblogs