X factor 2011

X factor is here again, for another year of brilliantly funny auditions and some real talent. I love this time of the year and thought it deserved a post to mention some great new faces who sent some chills down my spine. This year a brand new line up of judges brings a fresh take on the series. My favourite new judge: Kelly Rowland. A stunner, with a great voice and personality. She has definitely brought a different vibe to the show. With her stand usual judge Louis Walsh, the new Simon Gary Barlow, and N Dubz singer Tulisa, who I have to admit, yes she is young, buy boy she kind of gets on my nerves. Anyway, enough about the judges and more about the performers.

Firstly, I loved  16 year old Janet Devlin from Ireland. She gave a timid but stunning performance of 'Your Song' originally by Elton John, but covered recently by the talented Ellie Goulding.

I was also interested in finding a few home videos made by the beautiful Janet.. they are very cute, but there is no doubt she can really sing.

Another act I feel i'd like to mention is Derry Mensah, from Ghana, living in Croydon, London. His acapella audition had quite an impression on the judges and myself. He is definitely a cheeky chappy and even managed a kiss off his big crush Kelly Rowland.

Roaming through youtube to see if Derry had recorded any other songs I was shocked to find quite a nice collection. He features with rapper Risky, and as a duo they really work. One song really stood out though, with shockingly explicit lyrics, this isn't for the faint hearted, but is rather amusing. Even with the sexual explanation of a woman's first time, Derry still shows his delightful vocals..

Love it. There have been lots of stories floating round about this 20 year old r n b singer, as it has been revealed he is a former gang member. His change of life and determination to stay away from crime will definitely go in his favour. The fact that he spend 18 months in prison doesn't deter me. He seem to have hopefully learnt from his past. Check out the articles from the sun and unrealitytv.co.uk

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/tv/x_factor/3780896/X-Factor-star-Derry-Mensah-kept-friend-alive-after-shooting.html

http://www.unrealitytv.co.uk/x-factor/x-factor-2011-derry-mensah-sentenced-to-18-months-in-prison-for-robbing-a-teenager/

I hope this one stays out of trouble because he has true talent and could make millions! He is the new usher, and that makes me a very happy girl.

Honeygene gig at Ryan's Bar

Honeygene played Ryan's Bar Thursday night, and it rocked. The venue is a small but atmospheric basement in the heart of Stoke Newington, North London. This little pub not only has live performances, with free entry an always added bonus, but they also serve some great food, and of course plenty of drink. The night was organized by Max Mitch.

The night started with a young male musician, Billy Bernhardt, who had plenty of passion and darkness. The crowd was attentive, and really listened to the music which at times became quite intense! It was a refreshing night, where a small crowd gathered around the small stage and listened to the lyrics and vocal and guitar melodies played.

Up next was a male and female duo, both playing delicate guitar, whilst she sang quirky and upbeat songs about love and life. These were a great pair.

Honeygene were up next, and boy was it good getting back in the game. We played new tracks including 'A Better Tomorrow' 'Miss Sublime' 'My Hero' as well as The Monkee's 'Daydream Believer' and a few old tracks to get the crowd going. The room seemed to really appreciate my vocals, and my fathers guitar. Father and daughter doing what they do best.

Next in line for the night was a girl called Sarah crow who finished the night with acapella 'Summertime' from Porgy and Bess. It was a little strained, in my personnel opinion, but I did cover this song myself back in my classical days, and it ain't that easy. I prefer a higher and more lighter version, unless you are black and have a voice of a soul sister.

Finishing the night was Ryan Spendlove, who literally blew the audience away with his beautiful melodies and guitar playing.  He opened with a small fiddle, which really drew the audience in. He is one to watch.
Go to his page and check out his songs:
http://www.myspace.com/ryanspendlove

The night as a whole was delightful, and I for one thoroughly enjoyed myself, and all the other acts who played. Thanks Max.

Rhianna and Britney Spears collaboration

Britney Spears has collaborated with Rihanna for her new single 'S & M' and I am bitterly disappointed. I wasn't expecting it to be great, not being a fan of Britney Spears these days, but it has truly reined the once great song in my mind. When I bought Rihanna's album 'Loud',' 'S & M' was one of the songs which I instantly loved. Now,  all I can hear when I think about it, is Britney whining along with over use of auto tune. Using auto tune is always a little touch and go.. and does defeat the whole concept of singing with talent.  Rhianna, you are the Caribbean Queen whom I look up to.. what have you gone and done. Have a listen and give me your opinion on this remix. It left a sour taste in once sweet mouth. Rhianna just tweeted that this remix is now number 4 on itunes. Not impressed with peoples song choice.

To end of a positive note, Rihanna is performing several tour dates, and will be in London from the 5th October til the 22nd December 2011.  Tickets are looking crazily expensive, but I am sure Rihanna would be amazing live. As long as Britney Spears doesn't make a special guest appearance.

http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/Rihanna-tickets/artist/951236

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