Thursday, 28 January 2016

Rihanna - ANTI

Recommended by Bex:

The darkness of Rated R, mixed with the coolness of Unapologetic, Rihanna has delivered her most cohesive album to date. It's smooth and chilled, with an undertone of anger and resentment. Finally I feel like we've got below the surface of Rihanna's pop exterior.

Seriously though, where is 'Bitch Better Have My Money'? I think it should have made the deluxe version and can't stop listening to it recently.

Sunday, 17 January 2016

FKA twigs - LP1

Recommended by Bex:

FKA twigs has steadily been growing on me throughout 2015. I'd rate her my favourite modern singer, alongside Tinashe. Tahliah Debrett Barnett (twigs) is artistic, bass-driven, and a very sensual performer.

Sunday, 10 January 2016

Justin Bieber - Purpose

Recommended by Bex:

If you had told me I'd recommend Bieber a year ago, or even one month, I'd have been somewhat surprised. Since turning 30, my tastes don't seem to conform any more (if they ever did) and I happily like what I like.

He's also really hot, and at a fanciable age now!

Saturday, 2 January 2016

Natalie Imbruglia - Male

Recommended by Bex:

A few years ago, I actively sought every Natalie recording: the live tracks, the b-sides, the bonus tracks, and I came to the conclusion that she doesn't have a single bad song.

While by no means my favourite of her albums, it is highly recommended. These are great covers from an amazing singer who gives her own, albeit safe, version rather than a straight copy. If you like what you hear, try the first two albums and, her latest original release, Come to Life.

Sunday, 30 August 2015

Donell Jones - The Best Of

Recommended by Bex:

The second time a greatest hits collection has graced my page in as many months. I really miss good R&B music like this.

I loved the days when 'U Know What's Up' was in the charts, Aaliyah was Queen, and a hit wasn't a hit without a rap feature - 'Let Me Blow Ya Mind' and 'Never Be the Same Again', anyone?

The remix version with Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes was notably absent from the official track listing; I added this to my digital album. Also, 'In the Hood' (first single from his 1996 debut) works as an album opener.

Saturday, 22 August 2015

Destiny's Child - Destiny Fulfilled

Recommended by Bex:

From beginning to end, the ladies were telling us a story:

An unsatisfying man, full of empty promises (Lose My Breath)

The type of man they wanted (Soldier)

How to treat this new man (Cater 2 U)

To how she misses him when he is gone (T-Shirt)

Why he doesn't act the same (Is She the Reason)

He cheats and her friends tell her to let him go (Girl)

Leaving is always difficult (Bad Habit)

But finally they let him go (If)

Now she is rid of him (Free)

They were hurt by what he did and are (Through with Love)

But true (Love) is in us and our friendships.

Sunday, 16 August 2015

Zendaya - Zendaya

Recommended by Bex:

With a strong resemblance to Cassie, and influences including Aaliyah, Rihanna and Bridgit Mendler, I'm very surprised I am only now aware of this debut. Zendaya has since been working with Timbaland, Diane Warren and Babyface on the follow-up to her 2013 release.

Earlier this year, Zendaya (which means 'to give thanks') starred as Cut-Throat in Taylor Swift's 'Bad Blood' video. For many, this was an introduction to the talented actress, singer and dancer.