Electroqueer

My Thoughts On Sam Sparro's "Self Titled Debut"

I have only bought Sam Sparro's debut self-titled album on Tuesday and I can't stop listening to it.  I've literally played it about eight times and as soon as the final track finishes, I start it all over again!  I'm obsessed.  I was worried that Sam's album might have the horrible shelf life of Calvin Harris' "I Created Disco" album, but oh how contrary that is.  Sam has made a rather good disco freak record and I'm in love.

Aside from having the smash hit "Black And Gold" as the second song, there are a number of potential singles here.  "21st Century Life" gets me dancing immediately as Sam discovers the joys of modern technology and the electro anthem "Sick" certainly will give hardcore electro fans a spark of delight.  The tracks in the middle of the album like "Waiting For Time", "Recycle It!" and "Cottonmouth" aren't the best tracks on the album, but "Hot Mess" sees Sam conjuring up a modern, yet retro-grade Prince record while "Cut Me Loose" is pretty much your "getting ready" soundtrack for the next three months of Saturday nights. 

My favourite song on the album is "Pocket" - hands down.  I absolutely love this electro diddy and Sam's take on the old saying that "you should keep your friends close and your enemies closer" is fresh and inspiring.  You'll especially love the track "Sally" as we see Sam dishing out some good advice to a call girl while still managing to pay homage to The Police's legendary 80's track "Roxanne".

Despite having a secret song at the end of the album (I usually hate it when artists do that) this album is pretty amazing.  The secret song talks about how Sam spent too much money on a fabulous pair of jeans which has left him penniless and hungry and lord knows how many times I've done that...So Sam, you're forgiven for the secret song thingy because the rest of the record is suprisingly soulful and full of wit and personality - which you rarely see in electronic records these days. 

You should all go out now and buy Sam Sparro's record.  EQ approved.

Kylie Spends 10 Million To Stage The X2008 Tour

Yes you read that correctly.  That's how much she's spending on her new European tour.

Some other things about the tour from the press release...

• The tour goes through Greece, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Luxembourg, Russia, Latvia and Spain.
• It's the biggest and most expensive show that Kylie has produced to date.
• Jean Paul Gaultier is designing over 7 outfits for her.
• 14 dancers, including 4 acrobats.
• Kylie promises some unheard songs and at least one surprising cover.

Damn girlfriend.  Do we get some green tea thrown in too?

"Underneath" by Alanis Morissette - So Lovely

Isn't she pretty EQs.  Sigh. 

Alanis Morisette's new song "Underneath" is so lovely, I can't stop listening to it.  I am told too that her new album "Flavors Of Entanglement" will be dropping on June 10th too and I'll definitely be picking up my copy.

When it comes to angsty yet delicate thought-provoking female artisans, I always turn to Alanis and Sarah McLachlan to fulfill my needs in that department.  Sigh.   

Listen to "Underneath" on this linkage here.

Overheard : Alannah Currie On The Thompson Twins Reunion...

"We've been offered loads of money to re-form, but I'd rather vomit on my boots" - Alannah Currie of the former Thompson Twins.

Apparently, she's really happy and quite successful in her new venture as a furniture upholsterer in which she's been taking some dead animals and stapling them onto chairs.  How very Bjork.

I'd still pay for a Thompson Twins reunion Alannah.  I'd even wipe the pukeage off your boots for you.  Come on, pretty please!

Press Play Bitch : Lorraine's New Single "When I Return To The World"

Take a listen to Lorraine's new single "When I Return To The World" from their upcoming album "Pop Noir" which is slated for a summer release (we really hope - fingers crossed).  Following up "Saved", the Norwegian boys from Lorraine are proving that they won't stop churning out the quality pop tunes.

"When I Return To The World" is released digitally on May 19th.  If you're interested in pre-ordering the single, visit their redesigned website on this linkage and you can take a listen to the gorgeous synth-rockage below by pressing play!

Lorraine : When I Return To The World

My Thoughts On Madonna's "Hard Candy"

Y'know I'm a pretty big Madonna fan.  Well not to the point where I buy anything and everything that has Madonna written on it, but I always manage to spend hundreds of pounds on her concert tickets and I have a rather sizable catalog of Madonna remixes and rarities so I think it's safe to say I'm a pretty big fan.  There has only been one time in my life where I felt overwhelmingly starstruck and that was when she stood next to me for about 4.5 seconds outside the stage door after a performance of "Up For Grabs" in 2002.  I almost fainted.

When Madonna hinted she was going to work with Timbaland on her new album "Hard Candy" I was a wee-bit disappointed.  I've always seen Madonna as one to nurture new musical talent as demonstrated by her collaborations with Stuart Price, William Orbit and Mirwais.  I even defended her "American Life" album when the critics called it her worst work to date, but quite frankly I thought it was one of her best - my only criticism was that the title track wasn't that great, but I stuck by her.  "Nothing Fails" and "Mother And Father" still move me.  Working with Timbaland, Pharell and Justin Timberlake seemed to be a strange move for Madonna in my eyes.  Radio is over-saturated with Timbaland hits.  And that's ok - it's just not what I prefer to listen to, but I think the industry can learn a lot from him.  It was with caution I took on the fact that Madonna was going to work with this team and I would await the final product before casting any judgment.

Well the day has arrived and "Hard Candy" has dropped.  And the verdict.  Eh - it's ok.  I've listened to it about three times now and the only standout track to me is "Devil Wouldn't Recognize You".  It's gorgeous.  I really want to like "Miles Away" too (the ending of this song is actually stunning), but I feel the song got lost in the production a bit.  I actually think the track would sound much better as an acoustic song that focuses on the lyrics.  There are some really cool electronica bits on "Give It 2 Me", "Dance 2nite" and "Heartbeat" that I like, but they will take me awhile to get used to, I find the whole beat pattern on the album as a whole to be rather repetitive.  I really don't get "Incredible" at all and "4 Minutes" is a good collaboration, but it's not really Madonna now is it?

Perhaps this is Madonna's attempt to secure and maintain the interest of the younger more commercial audience who buy records and hey that's ok.  I'll continue to shell out hundreds of pounds on her upcoming tour, but I'm hoping that the tour will see her revisit some of her classics -I don't really think showcasing this album live would work very well unless Stuart Price is involved.  That's just my opinion. 

I've been wrong before and there will probably be a plethora of people who will disagree with me regarding "Hard Candy" but for now, it's not an album I'll wear out like "Confessions On A Dance Floor", but rather a collection of songs that will pop up when I have my iPod set to random.  Perhaps Madonna is saving her really good songs for her new contract with Live Nation and didn't feel the need to push herself as an artist for this last record with Warner Brothers - just a thought. 

I hardly ever say this either, but bring on the more gay-friendly remixes please.  I still love you Madonna.   

   

   

Mattafix Unveils "Things Have Changed"

Those socially conscious boys from Mattafix have unleashed their luscious new pop vid-e-o to "Things Have Changed" which I am totally diggin on.  I really like these guys and you should check out their album "Rhythm and Hymns" if you get a chance.  It's good stuff and they somewhat remind me of The Fine Young Cannibals for some strange reason.

EQ Interviews Ming & Ping : "We'll Make A Spicy Dance Party For You!"

Meet Ming & Ping. They are an electronic duo of identical twins from Hong Kong living in one of my favourite cities in the world - San Francisco.  I became fascinated with Ming & Ping after a particular EQ favorite turned me onto their great 80's tinged electronica and with one listen to their fantastic album "Causeway Army" I instantly became a fan.  I think you'll like this lovable duo as much as I do.  Make sure you check them out on MySpace and visit their incredible website where you will get a feeling how this creative duo are seamlessly merging art, music and diversity into one very sexycool package.

EQ:  Hey guys - Now we know you guys are twins...How do we distinguish who is Ming and who is Ping?
Ming: <laughs> I am Ming.  Before we formed as a duo, we actually looked quite similar.  Our producer Bao convinced us to have more unique colors and style.  So I am Ming and I usually wear more black and magenta colors.

Ping: And I am Ping, I wear more light colors like white and blue and silver. This is the idea that our producer come up with to help form our image public.  But now, we dress like this always – quite natural for me to buy white trousers at the store or an electric blue tie, you know?  Hehe.

So tell us about your new video "Legends Of Nothing".  What's it all about?
Ping: <laughs> So the "Legends Of Nothing" video is the vision of our producer.  When we wrote the song, we were only thinking about very abstract images and Bao helped us to create this scene to represent our ideas.  Ideas like the in-between space of sleep and wake and inside/outside.  So we made a very stressful feeling video to represent that kind of struggle for control!

MySpace Discovery: Crystal Castles

Oooh. Awww. OH.  I'm totally digging this quirky Canadian electronic duo who have named themselves after the mythical toyland home of She-Ra Princess Of Power.  Say hello to Crystal Castles everyone.

Crystal Castles are getting a lot of buzz at the moment and are keeping a hectic tour schedule promoting their head-bopping music throughout England and Europe.  All the buzz is certainly worth it to - they have been coined "the most exciting and original band in the world right now" - and that is certainly a huge compliment to live up to.

Take a listen to their brilliant track "Crimewave" on their MySpace page along with their video for new sexydirty single "Courtship Dating" and you'll know exactly why I think they are rather ace, even if they don't like to show their faces much.

 

Press Play Bitch: Hydra Productions Creating A Tidal Wave

You probably haven't heard of Hydra Productions before and that's ok.  Neither did I until about 9 months ago when a long time pal of mine Shawn Winstian got in contact to tell me he was releasing a dance CD with his songwriting partner Shane Condo.  Naturally I was curious.  Shawn is a talented songwriter and has worked with many of my favourite pop stars from yesteryear inclulding Tiffany, Tommy Page, Stacey Q, Expose and even one of my current favourite voices, Nic Kat.

Well the day has finally arrived and Hydra Productions have officially released their first CD called "Liquid" and the results are rather amazing.  You can listen to a sampling of their perfect pop dance tracks over on their MySpace page now or you can just press play below to hear the stunning "Dust Off And Dance" featuring Tiffany.  I won't go on and on about this track, but you just imagine how much I love it.  I'm shrieking from excitement and I played it four times on the way to the office this morning - it's that cool.

If you are interested in purchasing the CD, make sure you visit their official website and if you're an artist interested in having Shawn and Shane write some incredible original songs for you - definitley get in touch with them - they are EQ approved.

Hydra Productions : Dust Off And Dance featuring Tiffany

The Quite Great EQ Rant Roundup

Hey EQs!  It's been one heck of a week so far here at EQ!  I just wanted to say thanks for all the kind emails sent in about the Blake Lewis and Róisín Muphy interviews.  I'm really glad you enjoyed them.  I've been listening to all the feedback too about the slow load times and I'm working on it.  I've changed the layout a bit and removed EQ TV which was weighing down the site, but EQ TV will return shortly in a clever way that isn't so load-time heavy - I promise.  Also it's been really cool chatting to all the Facebookers in the EQ group too - wow, 160+ members now...it's uber cool to see some of your faces and commentary!  So with all that - on with the rants...

• In a cool product tie-in, Tiësto has teamed up with Armani Exchange in North America and are putting together some exclusive apparel and limited edition CDs for Tiësto's "In Search Of Sunrise Tour" which spans across American on a rigorous party schedule during May and June.  I really liked Tiësto's remix/collaboration with Imogen Heap on "Hide And Seek" last year and became a little fan of his based on that piece of work alone.  Get your glad rags on North American EQs as superstar DJ Tiësto is coming to town.
• I'm off to see Italy's most famous male solo star on Monday night - Ligabue.  He's like the Italian Robbie Williams.  Geri is a huge fan of his and in turn, I have grown to appreciate him a bit.  Ligabue is doing a sold out run at London's Koko and quite honestly, being in a sold out crowd of hot Italians doesn't sound like a bad night out for me.
• The Pet Shop Boys will play a special one-off set during an event at London’s Heaven on May 2nd.  Very exciting.  Word on the street is that this performance could be the last one for awhile.  I might just have to book tickets then - you can do so too on this linkage here.
• The buzz around retrotastic Rick Astley is in overdrive again due to the recent Rickmob at Liverpool Street Station and his video for "Never Gonna Give You Up" going viral on YouTube.  Rick is headlining the "Here and Now" Tour in May alongside Bananarama and we are even treated to a new greatest hits album entitled "The Ultimate Collection" featuring the track "Full Of You" never before released in the UK.  Can you believe he's sold over 19 million albums?  Tre-cool.
• José González has digitally released the "In Our Nature Remixes EP" via Mute Records.  I'm really quite curious to hear this.  A long time ago, I suggested that it would be a good idea to hear José's soothing voice over a synthy dance beat and now, that sounds like it actually happened!  Maybe this strategic move will bring the already successful José González into a bigger pop audience demographic.
• New Artist Alert: You may remember Ian Brearley from the rather good, but defunct boy band Digital.  Well he's moved on and is in the process of putting together some mighty-fine electro-pop.  Ian posted a rough demo to "Goodbye To Yesterday" on his MySpace page and for a rough demo, it's sounding rather good.  EQ is definitely keeping an eye on Ian.  Go show him support EQs.
• EQ was quoted alongside Time Out, The Evening Standard and QX magazine in a press release for Paleday's new album "Love The Groove" - which can I say, is pop-fucking-tastic. They are truly "melodic pop gods" and "creamier than a gay cow". Expect a full album review coming soon.
• And finally we leave you with Boogaloo Stu's new song and vid-e-o for "Magnetic Heart" that premiered on Arjan's site yesterday. It's so 80's and retro-tastic that it would be a crime not to post it here for you EQs as well, in case you missed it. Enjoy!

EQ Interview with Róisín Murphy : I Made £65 in 15 Minutes, You Do The Sums!

So I got to chat with the current reigning queen of electronica Róisín Muphy and needless to say, I was pretty excited.  In this interview with EQ, Róisín talks about her recent busking experience, who she would like to get on her "casting couch" and some of the interesting items in her closet.  Personally, I'm thrilled to find out that she kept the gorgeous mirrored dress from the "Sing It Back" video.  Enjoy EQs.

EQ: Hello Róisín - Welcome to EQ.  Our first question is something that we've always wondered about since you started promoting "Overpowered".  What reactions did you get from the on-lookers when you did your photo shoots wearing your outrageously fabulous costumes?!
Róisín Murphy:  Actually, I was quite surprised how little the people of London seemed to react, in London I guess they have seen it all before. Or maybe they were just scared and decided to keep out of harms way, which is just as well because had I fallen on anybody in that Victor & Rolf dress I could have killed them!

Having said that, you toned it down a little when you went on a busking adventure in London!  How was that actually?  Did people recognize you or did they think "Oh just another busker on the street?".
I think most of the crowd that gathered did realise it was me, and for a busker I was quite dressed up. Still, I reckon the wide-eyed little girls in the crowd just liked it not knowing who or what I was.

Would you go busking again?
Possibly, It was a nice experience and many people said they were very touched by it, plus I made £65 in 15 minutes, you do the sums!

Sergey Releases "Girlfriend" on May 12 - Album To Follow

Following his recent club tour of the UK, Sergey is back on May 12th with the release of "Girlfriend" which will be followed up two weeks later with the highly anticipated UK release of "TV Show" on May 26th.

I am looking forward to the UK release of the album - obviously with a capital 'O'.  It will be most interesting to see how Style Records and Sergey's management ends up doing the UK packaging and strategy when aiming for Sergey's success in the UK - as the music market is vastly different in Russia.

Regardless - this is pretty exciting news!  It's great to see Sergey gaining some momentum and interest after all these months of me going on and on about how poptastic I think he is.  I reckon it's high time for Sergey to take up temporary residence in London again!  Don't you?

If you can get your hands on the remixes to "Girlfriend" - they are amazing.  I love the Buzz Junkies remix!

UPDATE:  It looks like "Girlfriend" is actually being pushed back to June 16th now.  Sergey must need some time to work on his summer tan before releasing the single.  Tee-hee.

EQ Hearts Sam Sparro - Despite The Gold Lame

You know when Sam Sparro busted on the pop scene, I was like "Oh, yeah another Calvin Harris" who happens to be openly gay - visit the insightful cover story in Boyz magazine for more on this... But this LA electro/soul/funk boy continues to amaze me. Check out his performance of "Black And Gold" on the UK's hit TV show, "The Friday Night Project" in which my appreciation for Mr. Sparro officially went up a notch, despite his "I don't really get it" video of "Cottonmouth" on his MySpace page.

I look forward to more good quality electro tuneage from Sam. And if I may, although the brightly coloured clothes are hip and trendy at the moment in some circles, I think Sam might look better in something more simple, elegant and sophisticated - says the GAP wearing non-fashionista.

Just don't get rid of the trademark white specs Sam - hot.

Kleerup Is Too Brilliant And You Know It...

Robyn's mad scientist and partner-in-crime Kleerup officially amazes me with the release of his tracks "Longing For Lullabies" featuring Titiyo and "Tower Of Trellick" that are available now from iTunes.

Kleerup is one of those dudes one the music scene that I am a little too afraid to talk to. Whenever I've seen him perform live with Little Miss Powerhouse he just has such an intensity about him that just says "I'm too-brilliant-for-you-and-you-fucking-know-it-so-step off" kinda vibes about him. And it's not in a cocky way at all - he just has so much talent oozing off of him in a throbbing electrical aura that it makes me want to bow down in respect. I'm sure he's nothing but a teddy bear in real life (just like Robyn), but for now I'll shyly admire him from a distance until he comes up to me and say's "Hey - who the hell are you?" at the next afterparty...LOL.

Here's the beautifully simple video to "Longing For Lullabies" that I am obsessed with at the moment. I hope you love it as much as I do. Please make sure you support Kleerup by purchasing his tracks. I would definitely love to hear a full-length album from him because he is 50% of the reason why Robyn is so massively successful at the moment...And even if Robyn wasn't around - this guy would still have me in audio fixation.

Longing For Lullabies featuring Titiyo

And don't they just look too fucking adorable in this candid photo..

Bim Doing An "Everything But The Girl"

Remember when Everything But The Girl remixed their own down-tempo track "Missing" and it was a huge crossover success? Well EQ Royales Bim have done something similar and the results are rather amazing.

"I Dream This World" from Bim's brilliant EP of the same name has received the electro dance remix treatment and I really can't stop listening to it. You should check it out on their Facebook page now.

And I'll say it again until I am blue in the face - Bim are brilliant and you should be supporting them now. Check out their tunes on their MySpace page where you can find information on how to buy the EP which is one of music's best-kept secrets at the moment. I've been listening to them for over a year now and I can definitely see them being the new EBTG.

You've been told.

EQ Inteviews Blake Lewis: "Ghastly and hilarious, I laughed out loud."

In my rather obvious and feeble attempt to get the release of the video to "How Many Words" by Blake Lewis sped up the other day, I somehow managed to get him to answer a few interview questions instead - and his responses are rather informative! 

In this exclusive interview with EQ, Blake Lewis talks about the origin of his new single, who he is big upping for this season of American Idol and what it was like to work with some of the legendary names on his uber fantastic debut album "Audio Day Dream".  Enjoy EQs!

EQ: Hey Blake, thanks for chatting with us. So tell us what's been the reaction so far industry-wise from "Audio Daydream"?
Blake Lewis: The reaction has been great so far.  I have been blessed with amazing fans that respect my art. It has been interesting coming off such a phenomenon of a television show like American Idol and trying to break out in the world of radio.

We loved your performance of "How Many Words" recently on the new season of American Idol. Was this song a standout track for you on the album? What is the inspiration behind the tune?
This was my pick for a single the day I got a rough mix back.  I was trying terribly hard to make this my first single and I couldn't’t be happier that it’s finally out there now.  "How Many Words" is about my last girlfriend I had before American Idol. In the chorus it says, "This loves black and blue".  "Black" is for Blake and "Blue" is her last name.  She is a beautiful, talented woman that I kept breaking up with and getting back together repeatedly over the course of two years.  It came down to me not liking the man I was becoming when I was with her and her lack of support in my music career made me let her go.  Thus, "How Many Words" was born.

And you know I am dying to know – how’s the video coming along?!
I have received many treatments for the video and wrote one myself.  Just waiting for the label to give the go ahead and trying to find the right person to see my vision through.

MySpace Discovery : Hej Matematik

EQ readers sure know where it's at.  Today's MySpace discovery was urgently sent through to us by one of our loyal readers and you're in for quite a surprise...Say hello to Hej Matematik.

I have absolutely no idea what the hell these good looking lads are singing about, but they sure no how to turn out an electro beat with the best of them. 

Hailing from Denmark as part of the Scandanavian pop explosion, Nicolaj & Søren Rasted are on a mission to get their fans moving - and the boys sure no how to rock those suits don't they!  Make sure you check them out on MySpace ASAP and to get a feeling for how serious these boys are about their electro, here are a couple of their music videos to tantalize the senses.

Now if only we could convince them to sing in English - anyone care to translate the lyrics?

Du & Jeg

Centerpubben

Darren Hayes To Guest Judge on Australian Idol

Via the ever-brilliant Unofficial Darren Hayes website.

Darren Hayes will be a guest judge on an upcoming Australian Idol episode.

In an interview with Syndey Confidential Darren said "As an Australian entertainer living in London I definitely have a soft spot for Aussies trying to make it overseas."

"Rather than judging people, I'm going to be looking for that little bit of magic that someone once saw in me."

Check the link above to read more...

"Saved" Live At Water Rats by Lorraine

Check this out. The ever-mysterious Lorraine released a live vid-e-o of their dreamy electropop track "Saved" which I am totally diggin on. I love this little live peek into their intimate show and it totally makes me want to campaign for these guys to get their next album finished.

With brilliant EPs out for UK hit "I Feel It", "Transatlantic Flight" and "Saved" under their belts - it's high time that a full-length album get completed. EQ readers are anxious and waiting for more from Lorraine, but in the meantime, enjoy "Saved" live at The Water Rats. If you love the band as much as I do, make sure you check out some of the above named EPs that are easily available from iTunes and make sure to revisit their nifty redesigned MySpace to learn more on the band.

MySpace Discovery: Neurosonic

You know, I'm trying to keep an open mind when it comes to hard rock and with a band like Neurosonic out there, it proves to me that not all hard rock is rubbish.

If it wasn't for the fact that Neurosonic got the whole Placebo thing going on slightly, I might have not sat up and listened to these guys.  But what I found upon my first listen, was a pop-tinged industrial band that infuses rock and electronica in a delightful way that somehow works for me - so just possibly they might work for you as well.

Check them out on MySpace - I quite like their down-tempo rock ballad "Me Myself and I" as well.  It's definitley worth a listen.  And here's their new video from their album "Drama Queen" called "So Many People" that has had me in a joyous rock rhapsody the last couple of days. 

It's always good to mix things up a bit isn't it...You might also be suprised that I own a few Linkin Park CDs too in the EQ arhives...Enjoy.

Ashlee Simpson's "Outta My Head" - Not Bad...Plus Free Download

You know I have frickin clue how I got added to Ashlee Simpson's mailing list, but today I received an email about her new album "Bittersweet World" which told me to check out her new video to "Outta My Head" and you know what - it's not that bad.  Actually it's pretty amazing.  I totally love the bit where she's all Linda Blair "Exorcist" in the end. 

Ashlee is one of those gals that kinda gets seriously overlooked because of all the bad publicity she receives in celebrityville, much like Lindsay Lohan and Kelly Osbourne.  But when you get down to it, what really matters is the quality of music she's making - and right now, I'd have to say this lead-off single is nothing short of incredible.  It's so EQ - pop, electro and retro all rolled into one perfect song.  I love it.

There's a free download of her album megamix here if you join Ashlee's mailing list.  While your contemplating that, you might just want to check out the vid-e-o.  You know I wouldn't have posted it unless I thought you would like it.  Enjoy.

They Came, They Saw, They Sang Rick Astley

The London Underground was brought to a screeching hault today when it was taken over by hundreds of Rick Astley fans who all started singing "Never Gonna Give You Up" in unison. 

We're not kidding.  They "Rickmobbed" the tube!

Rick Astley - you are officially a cult icon now.

Check out all the madness:

http://london-underground.blogspot.com/2008/04/liverpool-street-station-6pm-rick.html
http://qik.com/video/54002
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/7343833.stm
http://whatleydude.vox.com
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=9590099508

EQ Interview With September : "Kylie is Always on My iPod"

So you should know that September is blowing up at the moment!  She's blonde, she's Swedish and she knows a thing or two about quality dance music.  Her new single "Cry For You" is tearing up the UK airwaves as we speak.  This starlet-in-the-making has already had a taste for US success too, and a penchant for good ol American hamburgers!  EQ was able to tear her away briefly from all the madness and got her to answer a few of our silly questions.  Enjoy our little chat and make sure you download "Cry For You" now (physical drops on 14 April) and if you haven't heard some of September's other stellar tunes, make sure you check her out on MySpace.  We're quite diggin "Flowers On The Grave"...

Well hello September and welcome to EQ!  So you must be pretty excited that "Cry For You" is getting quite a good response from the UK market.
Yes!  I have been waiting for this a long time now so I'm very happy!  It has always been a dream and a goal of mine to break in the UK market!

So what are your thoughts on the current Scandinavian pop invasion that's happening in the UK now?  Robyn, Basshunter, Alphabeat are all taking over the UK charts.  And now you...
I'm proud!  There is a lot of music going on in Sweden and for it being such a small country, I think we're doing very well right now!

As a Swedish female artist, was it empowering for you to see Robyn have such great success?
Yes!  She has opened doors for a lot of other Swedish artists too.  She is great!

Blake Lewis Promo - Slower Than Molasses...

Y'know, I have been checking every day to see if Blake Lewis has cut a video for his ace new track "How Many Words" and all I get is a big phat nothin.  Well, he did release a little online teaser for the video, but it's not enough - I want the whole enchilada.  I want lights, camera and glossy Blake action.  I want Blake tangled up in audio paraphernalia.  I want Blake body-popping and rocking the hair and little beard thingy.  Blake, dude, it's high time you booked some live shows in the UK too.  We'd eat your shizz up.  If you need a slap on the behind to get the promo going - I'd be more than happy to oblige.

Gimme, gimme more Blake. 

The Great Paolo Nutini Ukulele Incident

Paolo Nutini is such a rock star.  He's right up there with Poison, Iron Maiden and Ozzy Osbourne.

It's been awhile since I've written about him, but clearly this warrants a post on EQ today.   

Don't ask me any details.  I have no words.

An Unlikely Pairing...Tiffany and Meatloaf Star In Cheesy AT&T Commercial

No - I'm not kidding.  It's so bad, it's fucking good.  I still heart you Tiffany.

MySpace Discovery: Doe Deere

I can't believe this diva isn't famous yet.  Say hello to Doe Deere (pronounced "dough dear") everyone - she's going to be a regular fixture here at EQ so learn how to say her name proper.  She's a disco diva on the verge of something incredible with her new EP "Supernatural" which will be dropping very very soon.

I only discovered the brilliance of Doe Deere a few days ago when she casually left a comment on EQ and like any artist that gets in touch, I thought I would check her out.  Not only was I highly impressed with her firm command of pop music, I was immediately sold on her quirky sense of style and her ability to make me listen to every single song on her MySpace profile - TWICE!  Trust me, you'll be mesmerized.  Click now and think of Sophie Ellis-Bextor conjuring up the sprirt of Lady Miss Kier in her sexy hayday with Deee-Lite.

Doe has graciously agreed to let us exclusively stream her new single "One Touch" in the Just Play Bitch section so make sure to check it out and if you're a member of the EQ Facebook group, you'll also be able to download the song in mp3 format for a limited time only.

Doe Deere : One Touch

Let Doe Deere ignite your San Francisco disco and strap on your go-go boots for a non-stop ride with the latest edition to the EQ Royale - yes, she's that good.  And here's a little vid-e-o from Doe about how she came to be a disco songstress instead of a lonely girl with antlers hiding out in the Canadian wild.  Precious.

Go and order the album now.  You've been told.

New Robyn Video To "Who's That Girl"

Check out Robyn's new video to "Who's That Girl", her impressive fifth single from her UK self-titled album and soon to be released US album.  The Robyn buzz is building up in America as little miss powerhouse seems to be all over at the moment in California in magazines and press.

We're really hoping that she'll go for an unprecedented sixth single in "Cobrastyle" as it's EQ's personal favourite from the record!  Make sure to check out Arjan's amazing podcast with Robyn as well!

Listen to "Click Click Click" by New Kids On The Block

A decent 1 minute 30 second clip has gone online of "Click Click Click" by New Kids On The Block.

It's R&B electro goodness all rolled into one. I fucking love it.  You really can't ask for a better comeback single if you ask me. 

Where The Fuck Is Jeffree Star?

Ok we give you the new video to Jeffree Star's "Ice Cream"...

Everyone knows that Jeffree Star is self made MySpace icon who's style and looks rival Marilyn Manson these days.  Appearance is everything to this diva.  So when we were sent the new video to review, we really only had one question...

"Where the fuck is Jeffree Star ?!!!" 

Song overall - ok. 

The fact that Jeffree doesn't appear in his music video - rather terribly disappointing.

More Jeffree.  Less Hello Kitty.

California Dreamin!

Meeting Simon Curtis!

Hey EQs - Apologies that blogging has been a little off-schedule lately.  I've been kept very busy as of late in San Francisco and Los Angeles and I've been having a total blast to say the least.  I absolutely love California and the weather here.  Sometimes I think, "Am I crazy to love London as much as I do?"  But then I think, even though the weather is grim at times in London, I am still a true Londoner at heart.  I am looking forward to the trip back to the UK this weekend, mostly because I miss Gerilicious. 

So with that, on with my California rants...

• One of the highlights of my last week was meeting Simon Curtis !  Simon was gracious enough to play host to me for a few hours in Los Angeles where I got a real insight into a star in the making!  It was a total blast, Simon took me to one of his fave coffee places that had pie to die for!  We even went for a little road trip down Mulholland Drive where I got to listen to some Simon Curtis rarities and some rather exclusive stuff too!  I also got to meet Corey, Simon's best friend, who's a real sweetie and even shared some Mac design tips with me!  All in all, it was really cool to finally meet one of the faces that I love to write about and it was such a treat to hang out with Simon before his 8 week shoot for his new movie "Spectacular" where he will surely become a mega-star.  Thanks to Simon and Corey for rolling out such fab hospitality for me.
  
  
• So the new Madonna video to "4 Minutes"...I had to laugh really, not because it isn't good, but it really reminds me of the epic DC Comic book novel  "Crisis On Infinite Earths" where the anti-matter wall is destroying everything in it's destructive path.  Leave it to me to compare a music video to a comic book, but seriously folks - that's the first thing I noticed.  I'm such a geekazoid.  I absolutely love Arjan's coverage on the album review too - check it out.
  
  
• I hate American VH1 and MTV.  I want to watch music videos but I am inundated with crazy reality TV Shows like "Flavor Of Love" and "Rock Of Love" instead.  I think I have seen one music video on that channel and it was early in the morning.  Give me my 15 channels of Sky Music any day over this stuff!  It's nice to see Brit Leona Lewis getting some kudos over here too with "Bleeding Love".
  
  
• So Stuart Price is producing the next Killers album.  That is totally fab news.  I sorta turned away from the Killers with "Sams Town" so knowing that Mr. Price is on-board for the next one just might renew my faith in them.
  
  
• I looked everywhere for some Darren Hayes, Temposhark and Robyn CDs to buy for my friend that was visiting from Portland, Oregon but couldn't find any.  Ugh - new cool EQ music really is hard to come by in America isn't it?  I did however buy the Sia album again because I like the American cover of it.  Time to take a trip to Amoeba Records in Ashbury Haight - I can spend all day in there...one of the best record stores on earth. 
  
  
• So the New Kids On The Block appearance on the Today Show...  Despite other bloggers wanting more, I thought the appearance was really kinda cute.  I laughed my ass off when the gal from the Today show asked Jonathan Knight about his real estate secret identity and asked if he could sell anything with his rather famous name and he loosely responded "I can't sell a damn thing".  That was hilarious.  Jonathan still is my favourite New Kid.
  
  
• And finally I leave you with this...you've seen it before on Perez Hilton's blog, but here it is for EQ readers in case you missed it.  It's just the cutest mash up of the Muppets and Rick Astley...enjoy.    

My Thoughts on The B-52s "Funplex"

I was about 15 years old when The B-52s unleashed their stomping party anthem, "Love Shack" upon the world.  Still to this day, I go into a cataclysmic scenester head-bopping euphoria whenever that track ignites the airwaves. Those unforgettable lyrics from "Love Shack" and "Roam" from "Cosmic Thing" will always stay ingrained in my brain for an eternity.  Just call me a "Rock Lobster".

What I always loved about The B-52s is their ability to never take themselves too seriously, but somehow seem to create a distinct modern sound that frolics its way with ease around a crowded rock-n-roll playground.  It's never a question as to who exactly rules the musical sandbox when The B-52s come out to play.  When I heard that The B-52s were releasing new album "Funplex", I knew it was something that was long overdue.  The B-52s are back people and you should know that "Funplex" is really worth a listen if your one of those types that loves a "good time" and let's face it, who isn't.  This isn't Enya for the librarian types folks...this is serious party music.

Listening to "Funplex" is like taking a trip back to your teenage kicks.  Hanging out on the "Hot Corner" for your friends to come pick you up for a bit of retail delight and a spicy bite at the Food Court is exactly what you'll be doing upon one whirl of the new record.  All the while, being treated to astral electro rock delights in the way of "Juliet Of Spirits" and "Eyes Wide Open".  Your motor keeps on humming with listens to sexual innuendo-y tracks like "Ultraviolet" and "Deviant Ingredient" which goes on about stripped naked delirious daisy chaining and being overtaken by pink helicopters transforming you into a fully eroticized being.  Ooh La La La!

Even when the B-52s are trying to make a statement about fucked up politics in Washington, they are still having fun as proved on "Keep This Party Going".  And with a debut on the US album charts at Number 11, The B-52s are doing it right and by the sounds of it, having a ton of fun along the way.  Join the runaway party train again with the eternally youthful B-52s - you'll be ever so glad you did.  It's kinda like waking up the next morning after the best night of your life and realizing that "life is too short for hesitancy or uncertainty".  So party it up people and live a little.

New Kids On The Block - Spiffy.

I was having so much fun putting together little images of New Kids On The Block to see how they would all look all grown up now (Joe is 35 peeps) and the boys went and ruined my fun and posed for their first reunion group photo.

Looking Spiffy Boys.

Madonna & Elle Magazine

Holy Baps R Bakin Madonna - don't you look all busty in the pic above!

Madonna recently did a very cute interview with Elle Magazine where she discusses her family, her high-low fashion days and why she doesn't quite get the sports hubby Guy is into to.  Personally, I think Jujitsu sounds kinda hot - but that's just me.

Elle has put together a great little online package for you which consists of the interview, a Madonna fashion slide show, behind the scenes video of the cover shoot and a chance to win a copy of "Hard Candy".  Click here.  Flawless.

Welcome To The Private Party

Private have updated their Private Party MySpace profile with some fantasmagoric remix tracks that you should listen to right now!

The "Private Party" album is availale to purchase online and on Denmark iTunes at the moment and I highly recommend you give it a whirl if you can - it's loads of fun and if you are a hardcore Private fan (and I know you are), you'll really enjoy this latest project from electronica maestros Private.

I've been caught bopping my head about to this album on the tube and getting strange looks from little old ladies.

Behind The Scenes with Róisín Murphy

I just watched this on Facebook and it's brilliant.

Take a look at this little behind the scenes viddy of Róisín Murphy making the video to "You Know Me Better". Her latest tune definitely is my favourite one from "Overpowered" and I'm just loving the concept of this video more and more with every watch.

Head on over to Arjan's site too to hear some great new remixes of the song which is out now and you should have bought your copy already!

New Kids On The Block - New York Appearance

So it looks like New Kids On The Block will be making their first public appearance as a reunited group in New York City this Friday.  This information was sent out to Blockheads today via email:

THE TIME: 7AM EST / FRIDAY APRIL 4th, 2008
THE PLACE: THE TODAY SHOW COURTYARD
ROCKEFELLER PLAZA, 48TH/49TH STREET NYC

Very interesting!  I wish I could be there.  Hopefully a few fans will YouTube it for us!  I feel like I'm 17 again heading back into NKOTB mania!  It also looks like Jonathan Knight will be joining the group as I had doubts about his involvement in the reunion. 

Take a look at these videos released on MSN which features Donnie, Joe and Jonathan all talking about the reunion and what they have been up to all these years!

Funtastic!