The Blag Club, Notting Hill

Honeygene as you may have read, played a gig at The Blag Club, Notting Hill last Thursday night. This was a new venue, but surprisingly cosy with a relaxing atmosphere.

It was a small venue, a small stage, and a total of five acts played starting around 8 ish, ending about half 11. We were on second to last.

The Croquet field opened the night, and I have to say, with all my heart, it was possibly the worst act I have ever witnessed at a gig. It hurts me to bitch about another act this way, but the whole set was out of tune. It was, I am afraid to say, depressing.

Next up were Cuz, a duo, both cousins. Normally joined by a team of female backing singers, we only got to see this band stripped to its basics,due to licencing on stage. (max two people). Overall, I enjoyed their set, there were moments when I thought he had nailed the vocals, and he really did try har, maybe a little too hard. They covered artists such as Jason Mraz, Gnarls Barkley a.k.a Cee Lo Green and many other feel good songs that people could sing along with. I am sure with the backing vocalists the band would have a little more depth and vocal strength. They even admitted that on stage, and seemed like quite cool london lads having a good time.

The Voodoo Rays played next. They were not my scene, but the male and female duo seemed to work. I realize I am ranting on a tad, so will be brief when I mention that Honeygene played next. We really enjoyed the set, as the quietness of the room (literally all of about five people) gave us a chance to sing some new songs such as 'Tears of Colour' which I wrote a few months ago, and a cover by The Monkees 'Daydream Believer', a classic. The sound was good, very clear and atmopheric. It was great to sing again, and after about ten songs,we both felt liberated.

Last, but by no means least Sean Taylor took to the stage. He was brilliant, with his intricate and elaborate blues guitar riffs, his fingers were darting in every direction. I was impressed. And, most importantly, he seemed like a real genuine, nice guy. Definitely an act to watch out for. Hopefully we will be playing with him again. Talented. Check out his facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/seantaylorsongs

So, all in all, a brilliant night. Not much of a turn out, audience wise, but this didn't stop us from having a blast and singing our hearts out for the first time in months.

Honeygene Photoshoot

Father and I thought it about time Honeygene updated their photo collection. We went up to Hampsted Heath last Monday with Barry Macdonald and did a photo shoot. It was a great day, and lovely and sunny. Unfortunately, as we arrived the sun decided to go under the clouds, so apart from some difficulty with lighting, we made the most of the day. At least it was not raining..

There are lots of good pictures, so I have selected only a few. Some will be used on our upcoming album 'Under the almond tree'. Overall, I was very pleased with the outcome. Walking up muddy hills to get to the beautiful trees and scenery was well worth it. Thank you Barry.

A smile shared between father and daughter.

                                              Amongst the trees.. I love these photos.

 If you would like to see the full collection please go to our facebook page.
 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Honeygene/20320047392?ref=ts

Honeygene have a gig tonight, 24th March in Notting Hill at the Blag club. After much needed rehearsing as it was an understatement to say we were a tad rusty, I am looking forward to it. I will be reviewing the gig on my next post. We will also be playing a few new tunes (covers and our songs). A great day in the park, great photos and also gave my and dad and I some quality time together. Much needed.

Gyptian And The Spring Break Experience 2009

As many of you know, if you have been following my blog, or know me personally, I have spent a considerable amount of time in Jamaica. This allowed me to learn about so many talented artists, from old school reggae kings to new reggae and dancehall singers. I saw many live, my favourite being the ‘Spring Break 2009’ festival in Negril.

Gyptian performing in 2009

This was an amazing experience, with so many artists, only on for a short time but it really gave me an insight into the music world in Jamaica. The beach was packed, there was great food (which I couldn’t afford so only tasted the fish soup) and there was a great vibe. 

I thought it was about time I created a blog entry devoted to one of my favoutie Jamaican artists, Gyptian, who played at the festival back in 2009. As soon as his voice came on stage, it was clear he would give a great performance, dressed in a red checkered shirt and singing ‘Beautiful Lady’. A classic.

Most of you may know Gyptian, as he has recently had lots of plays on radio 1, with his latest hit ‘Hold Yuh’. I absolutely love, love, love this song. At 27, well done him, he deserves the success.  I have found a video of him singing this classic, live, on radio one extra!

His new album ‘Hold Yuh’ was released in October 2010, and has some really good songs, which are mainly upbeat, cheery and have great, catchy melodies. He tends to veer away from the usual, lets say rather graphic images dancehall artist use, which makes him perfect for commercial success. (The English tend to be rather reserved, afterall)  ‘Nah Let Go’ is probably my second best song on the album, which he released as his most recent single. Honeygene are influenced by his vocals, and laid back reggae feel. I am a big fan of Gyptian. If you have not heard him, like reggae/dancehall, please check him out. Hope this blog entry gives you a little insight.

Doo Wops & Hooligans

Bruno Mars released his debut album ‘Doo Wops and Hoologans’ in October 2010 and it has had some great reviews. From a producer to a new artist, Bruno has done very well for himself.

I did however, stumble upon this review from The Guardian, by Alexis Petridis, who gave Bruno a pitiful and unwarranted 2/5 stars for his debut album ‘Doo Wops and Hooligans’  which I thought was most unfair.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/jan/20/bruno-mars-doo-wops-review

Looking at other album reviews online i.e play.com customers have given him a more rightful 5/5 calling Bruno a “brilliant songwriter” and “a good album full of catchy songs” which I have to completely agree with. The album consists of 10, catchy tunes with upbeat songs such as ‘Marry you’ which I can see as another big single, and more contrasting moodier songs such as ‘Talking to the moon’ which is one of my personnel favourites. His lyrics are deep, whilst his melodies are beautiful and some send chills down my spine. Here is a youtube video created by an obvious fan, Have a listen, see what you think..

Another favourite on the album is ‘Liquor store blues’ featuring Damian Marley. Of course, due to the reggae style and Jamaican sections from Mr Junior Marley himself, I found these two artists the perfect combination.  It also shows Bruno’s diverse use of genres from pop, reggae, to mo-town, R & B, rock, soul, blues and hip hop. There is a definite mix of chilled laid back songs on the album, such as  ‘Our first time’ and more lively Jason Mraz type style tunes such as “The Lazy song” which all in all, makes a satisfying and well made album come alive. His voice is stunning, as I continue to emphasize, with the amazing number one singles of ‘Grenade’ and ‘Just the way you are’ beginning the album. Also finishing the album is Bruno’s collaboration with Cee-Lo Green and B.o.B which I think is another brilliant, extremely catchy track. Great voices, great melodies and some great beats. Please check this great song out. Now. 

I think Bruno Mars is a great new artist; he is upcoming star and songwriter. I would like to give this album, a well deserved 5 out of 5. The only fault I can find is that I want more!

Here is the incredible album track list:

1. Grenade
2. Just The Way You Are
3. Our First Time
4. Runaway Baby
5. The Lazy Song
6. Marry you
7. Talking to the Moon
8. Liquor Store Blues f. Damian Marley
9. Count On Me
10. The Other Side f. Cee-Lo Green & B.o.B

The other side of the world

Honeygene have finally made a video for 'The otherside of the world' which is on our new album. Sit back and view a selection of photos from London gigs to Jamaican holidays.. a love story, two worlds apart. Enjoy.

Put It In A Love song

Alicia Keys and Behonce sing together live. I wish I had been there.

Alicia Keys has paired up with the one and only, Behonce, for 'Put it in a love song' which only took me a few listens to fall in love with. I think they are the perfect musical team, both divas, both incredibly stunning, and have great, great voices.

This is a clip of their music video together, filmed in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, I am VERY MUCH looking forward to seeing the full version. See the sexy stars in action.

The Wonderful Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys is one of my female artists. She has an incredible voice, and has produced so many great songs and albums. Unfortunately I missed her latest UK tour, last year, but I am a big follower of her music. She not only has the soulful voice of an angel, but is an accomplished pianist. She is faultless.  She sings of love, beauty, and female empowerment. Her songs always lift my mood and make me smile.  She has released a total of five albums, her debut album ‘Songs in A minor’ in June 2001 which sold over six million copies in the US. Here is, in my opinion, one of her greatest songs ever written, so beautiful and stunning. It's 'Fallin' live, where her voice shines and her piano skills are extremely impressive.

 Her next album was released in December  2003, ‘The Diary of Alicia Keys’. In 2005, she released her ‘Unplugged’ album, on both CD and DVD, an album which is DEFINITELY worth buying, as she sings live including songs from her previous two albums.

In November 2007, Alicia Keys released her third album ‘As I am’ where the song ‘No one’ became a huge hit. I loved this song as soon as I heard it.

Other songs on in this album including ‘Superwoman’ blew me away. This song really means a lot to me, and probably so many other woman as she speaks from the heart, and touches and inspires those who listen. Here is Alicia singing this live in Madrid. Wonderful. 

Finally, Alicia wrote her latest album, ‘The Element of Freedom’ which was released in December 2009. This received mixed reviews, but I still love it. It includes her big number one hit ‘Empire State of Mind’ and even features Behonce in ‘Put It in a Love Song’ on track 10. She is truly a talented artist, even if R n B isn’t your style, her more soulful, gospel songs will be sure to reach your soul. Her vocals are admirable, and as a singer, I look up to her. She also entered the realms of motherhood last year when she gave birth to a son, Egypt Daoud Dean, on October 14, 2010. She is real woman, and this is definitely shown in her lyrics and live performances. Alicia Keys, you are a real beauty and star. Please keep writing and singing always.

Dolly Parton is coming to London!

It is official. Dolly Parton will be playing a UK tour, and stopping at the O2 Arena on the 7th and 8th of September! Tickets are going from £50 to £90 depending on what seats you would like, and I really, really want to go. Dolly is one of my BIGGEST musical inspirations with her stunning country voice and melodies, and of course Honeygene always loves performing her classic hit 'Jolene'.

Here is a clip of Dolly in action singing 'Jolene' live. She not only has a great voice, but adds wit and humour to her performances. Love it.

She is such a star, I cannot wait to see her perform at long last. Raised from such a poor family in the mountains of Tennessee, growing up, her family struggled through poverty and childbirth. Dolly was one of twelve, and always wanted to be a songwriter. She is known as the 'Queen of country music' and I believe this to be true. At 65, I think she looks great, and is open to talking about plastic surgery and her extremely glamourous sometimes 'trashy' look. But, I love her all the same. She is an inspiration, has a true passion for her music, and has become such a success growing up from nothing. From songs such as 'I will always love you' which Whitney Houston did a great job covering, Dolly will always have a big place in my heart. I can not wait to go and see her in action. I love you, Dolly.

The Brilliant and Talented Bruno Mars

I was blown away last night when watching The Graham Norton Show, when guest star Bruno Mars, one of my favourite singers to date performed live. I had to share this wonderful chilled version of 'Grenade' as it sent shivers down my spine, and made me realize why I sing in the first place. Here it is. It is beautiful.

I learnt quite a few things last night about this beautiful man. Not only can he really sing live, with wonderful vocal gymnastics, but is also actually called Peter. He also wrote the song which has become such a hit, by Cee lo Green 'Fuck you'. Yes, he really is a musical genious in my eyes.  I have just downloaded his album, 'Doo Wops and Hooligans' and will be reviewing it shortly. Watch this space.

Elliott Smith

Honeygene have many musical influences ranging from genres such as acoustic, rock, pop, reggae (ofcourse), blues and country.

Our first major influence was the great and much missed Elliott Smith.

Elliott Smith, born August 1969, died October 2003, committing suicide at the age of just 34. His songs used multitracking, creating layered and haunting vocals, which reflected his dark but beautiful lyrics. He was a true talent, recorded 7 albums,  including his maintream song 'Miss Misery' which was played in the film Good Will Hunting.

Although we love every album he has ever recorded, from his earlier and more raw days of his self-titled album, to his more polished albums such as XO, one song that really made us fall in love with his music was  Waltz #2. Here is a live video of him singing to his true potential. We miss you, Elliott.

Elliott Smith was a true tormented artist. He suffered from drug addiction, depression, alcoholism, and was often in a dark place. His lyrics reflected these moods. Just before Elliott's died, he was working on the album 'From A Basement On The Hill' another one of my favourite albums. I will leave you with one of the songs from this album, 'A Fond Farewell'. A great artist, a tormented soul, an influence we will never forget.

Last gig at The Gaff

So, The Gaff, Holloway road a.k.a Nags Head has gone. It has been replaced with the big chain that is Costa Coffee. So, not only would I like to express my anger at yet another chain taking over another music venue in London, I would like to share our last gig review which was in November 2010. Jane Playton gave Honeygene's performance an excellent review which can be found on her blog. Check it out.

http://janeplaydon.blogspot.com/search/label/Features


Here is the review. Our last gig ever at The Gaff.

"More volume please!” says Phil Honey-Jones from Honeygene, ready to launch into the next number called “Only 17”.

“This one’s for the teenagers”, he says, indulging in a quick joke with his daughter Charlie Allen before setting the crowd rocking with their unique sound, a fusion of Acoustic / Alternative / Rockabilly, complemented perfectly by Charlie’s beautiful classically trained voice.

They started writing together on a sad note in 2007, producing a song called “Perfect Harmony” in honour of Phil’s mum who was dying of liver cancer.

However, the music is uplifting, a fusion of different influences including Johnny Cash, the Rolling Stones and Blondie. There is also a strong reggae influence, apparent in the first track, “The One Thing”, accompanied by TJ Tarantino on bass and Adam Lewis on drums.

They describe themselves as “dreamers”, and

“Full of Dreams” is the fifth track, starting with a subtle acoustic intro until the drums and bass pitch in with a much heavier sound.

“Truckin’ Love”, the highlight of the evening, finishes with a flourish of drums and everyone on a high.

When asked what song meant the most to him, Phil was reluctant to single one out, saying that they all meant a lot. He says that the songwriting “all happens very naturally”. Charlie says that she “wrote a lot more in the second album”, emphasizing the reggae influence that they call “reggae love pop”.

Honeygene have released one album so far,  “A Beautiful Place to get Lost”, with a new album coming out soon called “Under the Almond Tree”.

Long live The Gaff.