Union J You Got It All Review

hey guys!
Today I'm gonna be doing a review of Union J's new single 'You Got It All'. Union J are a boyband, who were put together on The X Factor UK in 2012. The four piece, consisting of Jaymi Hensley, JJ Hamblett, Josh Cuthbert and George Shelley released their first album, self titled, in October 2013, and have been working hard in the studio since then working on their second. The track that I am going to review today is the second single from the band's second album.

The song itself is good, it's your typical boyband ballad. It has a good melody behind it, which carries the song. The lyrics are nice and meaningful, if somewhat repetitive. The thing that stands out to me on this track is the quality of vocals by the boys. They have improved massivley from what i remember them sounding like on The X Factor only two years ago. It's a refreshing change to hear Hamblett sing a solo part; his voice is calming and soothing, perfect for this song. Cuthbert's talent always shines through, and Shelley's soft and smooth vocals in the bridge of the song set it up perfectly for the big key change, lead by Hensley. Their harmonies are tight and polished, something which is often overlooked. 

Overall, this is a good song, and I can see why Union J have the dedicated fanbase that they do. I feel like this band is massively underrated as they're talented, good looking lads, that obviously care about their music, and take it seriously, unlike other acts that have left The X Factor after only going on there to be famous. I hope this song does well, it's the perfect winter ballad.The band has played a blinder releasing this single now! 

I would give this single an 8/10. 

Until next time, 

MG x

Eyeden

Hi everyone!
Today I am going to do a review on the upcoming artist Eyeden. Eyeden is a 19 year old audio artist, based in Liverpool/Coventry. Racking up an impressive 16000 views on Facebook and 1480 listens on Soundcloud, Eyeden is slowly but surely creeping his way into the music industry.
I was given the opportunity to listen to his brand new single I Got You, and after listening to his music on Soundcloud before hand, I was pretty excited.

The song itself is very good, it has sick synth beats that run through it, and Eyeden's impressive vocals dance across the track. It is very urban, very dirty, something which would go down a treat in a club. I love this type of music, it's grungy but not so much that it would alienate people who only listen to certain types of music, for example pop. 

Eyeden is extremely talented, something which comes across within the first minute or so of the track. From a quick search on Google, there is plenty of posts that show Eyeden is humble artist, who works hard, and has the right mindset to succeed.  I see no reason as to why this can't be the breakout track for the 19 year old artist. 

If you fancy taking a listen to the song yourself, the link will be attached below, along with all of the social media links for Eyeden. He will also be performing at Bumper in Liverpool on the 24th January 2015, and I highly recommend going to see him live! I predict big things for this young artist. 

Until next time, 

MG x 

www.facebook.com/eyedenmusic

www.soundcloud.com/Eyedenmusic

www.youutube.com/eyedenmusic

Band Aid 30

Today I am going to do a quick post on the Band Aid 30 Christmas Single, Do They Know It's Christmas, which is raising money for the fight against Ebola.

The stars that Bob Geldof chose to be in Band Aid 30 are all relatively young, so for a 20 year old like myself, I know every person there bar a few. There are a range of people, from One Direction, to Bono; there are even Youtube sensations like Zoella and Joe Sugg.
The single itself if sung well, with incredible vocals from all, especially Ed Sheeran and Rita Ora. However this single seems to be missing something which other Band Aid charity singles have managed to produce. It is missing a spark, that one thing needed to make a song go down in history.
This will sell, and it will top the charts. I read only half an hour ago that it is the fastest selling single of 2014, and it's only been out for 24 hours. Yes I have bought it. Yes I would recommend buying it, however like I said, I feel like the single is a bit lacklustre. It's no Band Aid 28.
I still think we should all buy the single, but only because Ebola is serious, and it needs to be stopped. The single is only £1, and if it we can help stop this deadly disease, then we should.
Support the cause.
Until next time,
MG x

Halsey Room 93 EP Review

Hi guys! Today I'm going to do a review of Halsey's (real name Ashley Frangipane) 'Room 93' EP. I've been a fan of Halsey for a while now, so I was very excited when she announced she was releasing this EP. She's an incredibly underrated artist, something which I hope changes very soon.

1. Is There Somewhere: This track promises us synth beats and crazy electro pop, and she doesn't disappoint. Her talent shines through as her vocals marry with the melody. The song is very relaxing; it's just 'cool'. Her voice reminds me of Ellie Goulding, however in my opinion, Halsey manages to sound different, and has a distinguished sound. This song is excellent.
2. Ghost: I think this song is going to blow up. It's catchy and can be enjoyed by people who enjoy all different types of music. The deep bass line makes this the song that is hotly tipped to propel Halsey into stardom.
3. Hurricane: This is my favourite song on the EP. I would listen to this no matter what activity I was doing. I love it. It has a deep bass line with synth and electro beats; it is incredible. Halsey's talent also shines through, and she proves that she can saaaaaaang.
4. Empty Gold: This track is fantastic. Halsey proves here that she can adapt her voice to different styles and tempo's, whilst keeping her distinct sound. The chorus is especially good, with the anthemic sound making it impossible to not sing along after the second time. I'm impressed.
5. Trouble: This is a very clever and beautiful way to end the EP. It is stripped back, exposing Halsey's vocal, and she shows yet again how talented she is. It is very very good.

Overall, I love this EP. Halsey has played numerous acoustic gigs all over America, as well as being the opening act for The Kooks in North America. Halsey outdid herself with this EP, she managed to get across the message that she means business, and other artists should watch out for her. The incredibly meaningful and relateable lyrics leave you longing for more. Her EP isn't actually available in the UK, something which I hope changes soon because I think she would smash it over here!
I would give this EP a 9/10.
Until next time,
MG x

ATC Infinity EP Review

Hey guys!
I'm going to do a review of an up and coming band Against The Current. Against The Current (ATC) are a pop/rock band from Poughkeepsie, NY, consisting of lead singer Chrissy Costanza, guitarist Dan Gow and drummer Will Ferri. I am going to do a review of their EP Infinity, which was released in May 2014 here in the UK.

1. Infinity: I think this song encapsulates who ATC are perfectly. Costanza's insane voice dances along the track perfectly, and she manages to get the perfect balance between sounding sickly sweet, whilst still making it known she means business, for her and for her band. Ferri and Gow's talent also shines through, with punchy riffs and drum beats. I am looking forward to the rest of this EP!
2. Something You Need: This is the song that I would immediately think of if I was to think of 'pop/rock'. Again, Costanza's voice suits the style perfectly. The lyrics in this song are universally relateable, and I think that's one of the main reasons I have big expectations for this band.
3. Comeback Kid: This is my favourite song on the EP. The beginning 10 seconds sets up a perfect start for an excellent anthemic song, and it does not disappoint. Ferri and Gow again step up with their support for Costanza. This song is brilliant. I'm very impressed.
4. Another You (Another Way): Another excellent song. The synth beats behind this song means it could easily be accepted in the mainstream charts. The lyrics are very relateable, and Costanaza again slays it with the lead vocals.
5. Closer, Faster: The riff at the beginning of this track makes me excited to hear the rest of it. 'thats why the butterflies come to life, everytime' ; everyone has been in this position, and the fact that this talented band sings about things that everyone can relate to helps them a lot. Closer, Faster is the perfect song to keep both genres of music happy. It could easily be enjoyed by pop fans as well as punk, punk/pop and pop/rock fans alike.

Overall, I am incredibly impressed. I don't understand why this band doesn't have the exposure it deserves. All 3 members are incredibly talented, as well as good looking, with loveable personalities to match. I watched a few interviews of theirs, and they seem like down to earth people, something which only adds to their appeal. I predict huge things for this band in the future, and I really really hope they get the recognition that they deserve very soon.
I would give this EP a 8/10.
Until next time,
MG x

Taylor Swift 1989 Review

Hi guys!
Today I am going to be doing a quick review of one of the biggest albums of the year.
Admittedly, I can't say that I had a huge interest in Taylor Swift, so when I knew I would be reviewing the album, I went in there with an open mind.
The standard album lasts for 48:41, a clever amount of time as it leaves you not wanting the album to hurry up and finish, but doesn't leave you feeling like you've gone to lunch and all you've had is an apple.
The artwork is stunning. It's simple yet elegant, and gives no major give away as to what the album is going to sound like. As I said, I went into the review with an open mind, but I still wasn't expecting much. Boy was I mistaken.

1. Welcome To New York: This song is effortlessly cool. The synth beats at the beginning make it known that Taylor means business and plans to dominate the pop world. The repeated 'Welcome to New York' line makes it impossible to not sing along by the third chorus. Despite this track being a bit repetitive for my liking, this is the perfect first song for Swift's first pop album. 

2. Blank Space: This is Swift's second single from the album, and I can see why, with it's smooth and polished melody and lyrics. As with the first track, I feel like there is just a little spark missing. The production reminds me a lot of Lorde, and I am a fan of the song. It glides Taylor into a different league, one which I hope she will excel in.
3. Style: After a mere 5 seconds, I am already loving this track. It has a slight resemblance to a 1975 song, which I like a lot. Taylor sounds a LOT like Selena Gomez in this track, again showing her talent and diversity, as she can adapt her voice as and when needed. This track is much better than the first two, and the spark that I am looking for is starting to appear.
4. Out of The Woods: This is by far my favourite song on the album. The drum beats at the beginning promise for a heavy, anthemic ballad, and they do not disappoint. This effortlessly brilliant. I am impressed.
5. All You Had to Do Was Stay: This is a generic pop song, and is a bit disappointing after the marvel of OOTW. However, the song is very catchy, and I can see why it is a fan favourite. Swift's voice suits this style perfectly, and I'm slightly confused as to why she hasn't done this earlier.
6. Shake It Off: The only way that you won't have heard this song is if you have been living under a rock. They catchy and upbeat track is one of the biggest songs of the year, and I love it. Swift has a nack of making anything sound happy, and this is a perfect example of that.
7. I Wish You Would: This is different from the other songs on the album. The synth beats are still there, but the track would still work without them because of the strong drum beat underneath. Taylor has found her niche, and this album is very clever. I am very impressed.
8. Bad Blood: I love the start of this song. In fact, I love the entire length of this song. I feel for whoever this was written about, because she is packing punches left right and centre. Bad Blood is a perfect pop song for Swift. It's angsty, angry, and Taylor can really play around with the melody.
9. Wildest Dreams: One thing I have picked up on with this album is that it is pretty repetitive. Quite a few of the songs sound similar, and I feel like I've definitely heard this one only minutes before. Despite that, it's still a pretty good song. The words leave you thinking, something which previous songs have failed to do.
10. How You Get the Girl: Perfect pop song to change the pace, which is much needed in my opinion.
11. This Love: The beginning of this reminds me of the old Taylor Swift, with the guitar riffs; it starts off pretty country. It's a slow, moving ballad, and it truly is beautiful.
12. I Know Places: I love it. The chorus is unbelievably catchy, and Swift's talent really shines through here.
13. Clean: This is the final song on the album, and it's the perfect closing number. Smooth, clean and catchy, Swift shows again that she knows exactly what she is doing.

Overall, the album is much better than what I was expecting. It's not the best album, however for her first all pop album, it's very very good. There are a few exceptional tracks, which I feel save the album from being lacklustre. I think it's much better than what people would think. I you forget that Taylor Swift used to be a country artist, you cannot fault the album really.
I would give this album a rating of 7/10.
Until next time,
MG x

5 Seconds of Summer Album Review

Hi everyone!
Today I am going to do a review of the hotly anticipated debut album by the Australian band 5 Seconds of Summer.
5 Seconds of Summer are a pop rock/ pop punk band formed in Sydney in 2011. The band consists of lead singer Luke Hemmings, guitarist and vocalist Michael Clifford, bass player and singer Calum Hood, and drummer Ashton Irwin. The group gained a fan base from posting covers on Youtube, gathering a small following before getting noticed by One Direction and supporting them as their opening act on their Take Me Home Tour. They're the marmite of the punk rock world. Love them or hate them, these aussie lads are flying high at the top of the charts, and after listening to their self titled album, I can see why.

1. She Looks So Perfect: This was the only song that I had heard before reviewing the rest of the album. It's a catchy, upbeat, and I am not surprised to learn that this song hit number one in several countries, going platinum in both Australia and New Zeland. With songs like this, it's not hard to see why these boys are one of the hottest up and coming bands on the planet. 

2. Don't Stop: This was the second single from the pop rock band, and it's fun, especially with it's cheeky innuendos and infectious bass line. This accompanied with SLSP has the formations for creating a great album. 

3. Good Girls: Ah. The infamous Good Girls Are Bad Girls That Haven't Been Caught. This is a favourite amongst the fans, and it's not hard to see why. It has lots of guitar, bass and drums, and Clifford owns this song with his 'Billy Joe'esque voice. I don't see how this won't be another hit for the Australian band. 

4. Kiss Me Kiss Me: Written with members of the popular pop punk band All Time Low, this is the perfect song to showcase 5 Seconds of Summer's talent and passion for this genre of music. The bridge will no doubt have you singing along before long; this is another good track on the album. So far, I'm impressed. 

5. 18: We've all been there, being rejected because we are thought of as too young by the person that we are infatuated with. 18 is another catchy hit for the four piece, showing impressive riffs and an impressive drum beat to keep you tapping your foot along to the melody. 

6.Everything I Didn't Say: A welcome change of pace comes with Everything I Didn't Say. This song is more heartfelt, with incredible harmonies and meaningful lyrics but still enough drums and bass to keep the rhythm at one that can be classed as pop punk. Very clever! 

7: Beside You: The drum beat at the start of this song from Irwin leads the way for an equally as impressive riff from Clifford and Hemmings as well as a sick bass line from Hood. Beside You is a softer song, but still very 5 Seconds of Summer. This band has created a sound which is distinguishable and endearing. 

8: End Up Here: By far this is my favourite song on the album. The very clever decision to take away the instruments and have just clapping in the final pre-chorus makes it impossible not to join in, and the shouty chorus is perfect. If there is a song on the album that encapsulates what 5SOS is, I think it is this one. 

9: Long Way Home: This track has the perfect balance between soft rock and bubblegum pop. It's a nice song, and lets the audience cool off after the intense journey of the previous song. I can see why this is a fan favourite, it's well written and well sung; I am becoming increasingly impressed with this band! 

10: Heartbreak Girl: This song surprised me. When I listened to it for the first time, I wasn't jumping around with excitement, but after listening to it a couple of times, I fell for its charm. In some parts it can sound quite juvenile, but nevertheless, it is a great song. 

11: English Love Affair: I only have three words to describe this song. Angsty. Sexy. Rock. 

12: Amnesia: This song is beautiful. Written by the Madden brothers, it showcases 5 Seconds of Summer's talent perfectly. Hemmings puts in a stellar performance here, taking lead vocals along with Hood. It's a truly beautiful song that everyone can relate too. 

Overall, I am pleasantly surprised with this album! I can see why 5SOS are the hottest new band on the planet! They have the perfect balance between pop and rock to keep both sides content, and after a 2 minute search on twitter, it is clear to see that they have a dedicated and loyal fanbase. 

Obviously they are not going to be everyone's cup of tea, but you can't deny the talent that these boys possess. They are on their way to becoming experts in their field; their voices fit together perfectly and they play their instruments with ease, confidence and do it incredibly well. People often forget or don't realise how difficult it is to play instruments as well as sing, and these boys do it running and jumping around a stage, so props to them! 

The band has a perfect formula: 4 tall, good looking Australians plus loveable personalities and most importantly bundles of talent: there was no way that these guys were not going to succeed! 

I'm incredibly excited to see what comes next for this band, and I wish them all the success in the world. 

I would rate this album at a 9/10. 

Until next time, 

MG x