Denise Lopez “Don’t You Wanna Be Mine” review

Denise Lopez

I’ve been listening to the Denise Lopez “Don’t You Wanna Be Mine” dance single and remixes set for release 16th June, 2008 …

Denise Lopez

I’ve been listening to the Denise Lopez “Don’t You Wanna Be Mine” dance single and remixes set for release 16th June, 2008 on House Trained Records. I don’t recall hearing the track when it was originally released in the US in 1990, but that was awhile ago…and it hasn’t really received much airplay since then.

Apparently, though, “Don’t You Wanna Be Mine” was an underground dance anthem here in the UK. I’m actually quite surprised that it only reached #86 on the Billboard Dance Chart. Even with the help from famous production duo Robert Clivilles and (the late) David Cole from C&C Music Factory – which was a BIG name back then – it still didn’t come anywhere near top 10 or even top 20.

“Don’t You Wanna Be Mine” is a great dance track and Denise Lopez’s vocals are top notch. It’s good to see that it’s getting another chance with the release of a fresh modern remix in June, and is sure to be a huge hit in the clubs this summer.

Denise Lopez on amazon.co.uk

House Trained Records

Denise Lopez Myspace appreciation

By: Jenny May – BandWeblogs.com

Justin Timberlake FutureSex/LoveShow review

Justin Timberlake

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 …

Justin Timberlake

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

Nayo exclusive interview

Nayo

Nigerian born singer Nayo (pronounced “Nigh-O”), has come on to the scene here in the UK in refreshing style. Nayo is slowly but surely bubbling up from the underground and something tells me that it won’t be long before she’s a household name …

Nayo

Nigerian born singer Nayo (pronounced “Nigh-O”), has come on to the scene here in the UK in refreshing style. Nayo is slowly but surely bubbling up from the underground and something tells me that it won’t be long before she’s a household name. Her silky smooth and soulful vocals, reminiscent of Sade, have certainly caught the attention of not only the industry but her growing fanbase as well.

Having spent time in the US, Nayo graduated from Pepperdine University with a degree in Business Administration. She’s performed at shows in Los Angeles and independently released her single, “Party Fever” which made it onto the Billboard Club Play Charts and dance charts in Europe by late 2005.

Now based in the UK, her latest single, “Desert Storm”, was co-written by KK (Dido, Kylie Minogue) and features jazz, trip hop and bossanova influences. I can understand why some of the top DJs like Eric Smax, Thomas Gold and Grammy award winning Paul Harris along with Julian Peake would want to sink their teeth into “Desert Storm”, or anything that Nayo is involved in, for that matter. The single has been receiving airplay on Radio 1 and is currently making it’s way up the UK Club Charts.

Nayo

Nayo interview with BandWeblogs.com
By: Jenny May

Jenny May: You’ve been writing music since a young age. What is your songwriting process like?

Nayo: It varies, but I mostly write with the piano and I tend to fine-tune my lyrics at a later stage.

When you moved to the US, how did you establish your music career? Did you form a band?

I was mostly trying to find my voice in the US, particularly when I was signed to Sony Music. I have always been a solo act but I did have a band support me for most of my shows.

How did your independent release of “Party Fever” come about?

It wasn’t planned at all. Luck sort of found me, I guess.

Where are you currently living, and do you have a favorite place to live?

I currently live in the UK, London to be specific. I don’t think I have a favorite place yet. I live opposite the EMI building so that I continue to be motivated.

Do you go to Nigeria often?

Yes, that’s one of the great things about living in London I can go home as often as I want or need to.

So far, where has been your favorite live music experience/gig to date and why?

It will have to be London as Los Angeles the only other city I have lived in was mostly geared towards indie bands and the film industry.

How do you see yourself in the future and do you have other interests outside of music that you would like to explore?

I will always be involved in music and within the media industry. Lately, I have been nurturing a growing interest in theatre as well and would love to work with some production companies years to come. But, music and touring is my primary focus.

Have you attended many live shows by other bands/artists? If so, what has been a memorable show and why?

The most memorable show has been the African Express which featured Damon Albarn, The Good, The Bad and The Queen, Amadou & Mariam a diverse group of artists both from Africa and the West.

What inspires you?

My mother, women across the world who are able to stand for their values and beliefs when faced against the odds or ills of all kinds.

Are there any particular artists and/or musicians that you would like to work with someday?

I would love to work with Damon Albarn, Bob Dylan, Seal, Youssou N’Dour and Tony Allen to name a few.

Has the internet effected your music career? If so, in what way?

The internet has positively affected my music career by empowering independent artists, like myself and allowing us to reach our fanbase directly across the globe.

Nayo - Desert Storm

Your latest single, “Desert Storm” has been doing very well in the UK charts. As your fanbase continues to grow, have there been many changes in your day to day life?

Yes, Thanks. Its currently Number 11 on the UK Charts. I guess the only change is that I have to work harder and do more, a lot more shows in various parts of the country, which is expected of any artist.

What music have you been listening to lately?

Asa, a Nigerian singer-songwriter based in France.

Nayo’s single, “Desert Storm”, with club remixes, is available as a digital release in the UK and across Europe.

For more information, go to:

Nayo Official Website
Nayo on Myspace

Sergey Lazarev exclusive interview

Sergey Lazarev

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…Read the exclusive interview!

Sergey Lazarev

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.

United State Of Electronica interview

United State Of Electronica

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. Read their interview with Band Weblogs […]

United State Of Electronica

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

Bee Gees Greatest review

Bee Gees Greatest

I almost didn’t write this review. I’m hesitant to even mention who the review is about. However, I’m now going to strip away my pride and just spit it out. It’s the Bee Gees […]

Bee Gees Greatest

I almost didn’t write this review. I’m hesitant to even mention who the review is about. However, I’m now going to strip away my pride and just spit it out. It’s the Bee Gees. It took awhile to actually put the CD in and press play. But you know, when I did, all I could do was sing along to the familiar songs and move to the funky rhythms.

As cool or not cool as they may be, the Bee Gees knew how to create hit songs. Falsetto vocal and all. Songs like “Jive Talkin'”, “Night Fever”, “Tragedy”, “You Should Be Dancin'”, “More Than A Woman” and of course “Stayin’ Alive” still sound great in the 21st century. The production is quality and the instrumentation and the songwriting talent stands out from some of the lackluster “hits” of today. I bet you could hear the melodies to the songs when you read the titles listed here. Didn’t you?

If you want jam packed filled CDs with familiar songs that do in fact groove, then the Bee Gees Greatest, which includes 2 discs, would be good for a house party or to brighten up a gloomy day now that summer’s over. Mind you, there are a couple questionable songs that I hadn’t heard before (“Love Me”) and there are a few ballads like “How Deep Is Your Love” and “Love So Right”, but again, depending on your mood, they could be perfect for a romantic night in.

Buy Bee Gees Greatest on amazon.com.

Bee Gees Official Website

By: Jenny May

Kraak & Smaak review for The Remix Sessions

Kraak & SmaakKraak & Smaak is a production team consisting of Wim Plug, Oscar De Jong, Mark Kneppers, a live band with Ro Krom, Rose, Marc Baronner, and DJ DelaSarge.

The Remix Sessions is two discs filled with several different artists all from the same genre. This particular group of performers stands tall amongst the hundreds of artists trying to put a dent into the consciousness of today’s youth. That part of society that gobbles up this music as they do junk food and video games. There is also the 20 to 30 something crowd that will have this spinning because the energy and electricity it emanates is hard to ignore, especially when you need something to pick you up besides that morning latte.

I found disc one very entertaining and at times mesmerizing. Kraak & Smaak are superb mixologists. They remix all the tracks except the last one on disc two titled “No Sun In The Sky”, which is comes courtesy of Noogman. My tastes have a wide range and that is why I found the first disc so inviting. The tracks that really pulled me in and forced me to listen again were “Devil Inside” (Max Sedgley), “Love Is My Religion” (Karl Moesti) and “She’s Gone” (Resin Dogs).

Disc 2 was not as appealing because of the use of repetitive lyrics and sounds. I realize this is part of what makes the music what it is and it can be the main attraction, especially when you hit the dance floor. However, for this listener I prefer the cohesiveness of the songs offered on disc one. There was value in disc two with stars like Jay Kay of Jamiroquai doing his thing on songs such as “Electric Mistress,” and “Seven Days in Sunny June,” which I can appreciate. The words made sense without a doubt but it just did not do it for me as the first disc did. Certainly, many ears out there will love every minute of this two-disc set. I just happen to be a little more selective or finicky than your average listener.

I also have to mention the packaging. I liked the color scheme, images, and the layout. It comes in a gatefold cardboard tri fold case with two plastic trays for each disc. You also get an insert from Quango Music that informs of their artists and new releases. In the end, there was a lot to appreciate here and that puts this ahead of many other CDs out there that are vying for your attention and dollars.

Artist: Kraak & Smaak
Title: The Remix Sessions
Genre: Dance-Electronica-Pop
Quango Music Group
Website

Tracks:

Disc One:
01.Skeewiff – Man of Constant Sorrow (4:54)
02.Sarah Bettens – Come Over Here (3:07)
03.Karl Moesti – Love Is My Religion (5:54)
04.4 Ikon – Do You Dream (5:08)
05.Mark Rae – Medicine (5:30)
06.Mimezine – Can’t Get Enough (3:36)
07.Max Sedgley – Devil Inside (5:53)
08.Dorfmeister Vs. MIDLA – Boogie No More (5:56)
09.Bittersweet – Mating Game (7:48)
10.Resin Dogs – She’s Gone (5:00)

Disc Two:
01.Jamiroquai – Electric Mistress (7:31)
02.Kraak & Smaak – Real Pain
03.Chris Joss – A Part In That Show (7:24)
04.Fort Knox Five – Learning It The Hard Way (5:40)
05.Kraak & Smaak – Everything Is Plastic (8:21)
06.Zeroleen – All Good (6:53)
07.Lack Of Afro – Wait A Minute (8:20)
08.Jamiroquai – Seven Days In Sunny June (7:23)
09. Kraak & Smaak – No Sun In The Sky (8:09)
© MuzikReviews.com

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck