Shorn Star

1. ALBUM OF 2009: Lungs

2009-12-25T22:40:00.000Z

Florence + The Machine / Lungs

1. TRACK OF 2009: Dominos

2009-12-25T22:39:00.000Z

The Big Pink / Dominos

2. ALBUM OF 2009: Walking On A Dream

2009-12-24T20:26:00.001Z

Empire Of The Sun / Walking On A Dream

2. TRACK OF 2009: Cosmic Love

2009-12-24T20:24:00.000Z

Florence + The Machine / Cosmic Love

3. ALBUM OF 2009: Two Suns

2009-12-23T13:35:00.000Z

Bat For Lashes / Two Suns

3. TRACK OF 2009: Kiss Of Life

2009-12-23T13:32:00.000Z

Friendly Fires / Kiss Of Life

4. ALBUM OF 2009: xx

2009-12-22T12:56:00.000Z

The xx / xx

4. TRACK OF 2009: The Man's Machine

2009-12-22T12:54:00.000Z

Jamie T / The Man's Machine

5. ALBUM OF 2009: Kings & Queens

2009-12-21T18:47:00.001Z

Jamie T / Kings & Queens

5. TRACK OF 2009: Bad Romance

2009-12-21T18:45:00.000Z

Lady GaGa / Bad Romance

6. ALBUM OF 2009: It's Blitz!

2009-12-20T17:17:00.000Z

Yeah Yeah Yeahs / It's Blitz!

6. TRACK OF 2009: Heads Will Roll

2009-12-20T17:15:00.002Z

Yeah Yeah Yeahs / Heads Will Roll

7. ALBUM OF 2009: Fever Ray

2009-12-19T13:25:00.001Z

Fever Ray / Fever Ray

7. TRACK OF 2009: The Girl And The Robot

2009-12-19T13:20:00.001Z

Röyksopp / The Girl And The Robot

8. ALBUM OF 2009: A Brief History Of Love

2009-12-18T19:49:00.001Z

The Big Pink / A Brief History Of Love

8. TRACK OF 2009: 11th Dimension

2009-12-18T19:35:00.001Z

Julian Casablancas / 11th Dimension

9. ALBUM OF 2009: Man On The Moon: The End Of The Day

2009-12-17T17:59:00.001Z

Kid Cudi / Man On The Moon: The End Of The Day

9. TRACK OF 2009: We Are The People

2009-12-17T17:58:00.000Z

Empire Of The Sun / We Are The People

10. ALBUM OF 2009: West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum

2009-12-16T22:36:00.000Z

Kasabian / West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum

10. TRACK OF 2009: Daniel

2009-12-16T22:33:00.000Z

Bat For Lashes / Daniel

11. ALBUM OF 2009: The Fame Monster

2009-12-15T18:20:00.000Z

Lady GaGa / The Fame Monster

11. TRACK OF 2009: Empire State Of Mind

2009-12-15T18:14:00.000Z

Jay-Z / Empire State Of Mind (Feat. Alicia Keys)

12. ALBUM OF 2009: It's Not Me, It's You

2009-12-14T22:52:00.000Z

Lily Allen / It's Not Me, It's You

12. TRACK OF 2009: Infinity

2009-12-14T22:50:00.000Z

The xx / Infinity

13. ALBUM OF 2009: Everything Is New

2009-12-13T21:37:00.000Z

Jack Peñate / Everything Is New

13. TRACK OF 2009: Tonight's Today

2009-12-13T21:33:00.000Z

Jack Peñate / Tonight's Today

14. ALBUM OF 2009: I Love You

2009-12-12T23:44:00.000Z

Amanda Blank / I Love You

14. TRACK OF 2009: The Fear

2009-12-12T23:39:00.001Z

Lily Allen / The Fear

15. ALBUM OF 2009: Invaders Must Die

2009-12-11T22:27:00.000Z

The Prodigy / Invaders Must Die

15. TRACK OF 2009: Lucid Dreams

2009-12-11T22:25:00.000Z

Franz Ferdinand / Lucid Dreams

16. ALBUM OF 2009: Complete Me

2009-12-10T20:48:00.002Z

FrankMusik / Complete Me

16. TRACK OF 2009: In For The Kill

2009-12-10T20:45:00.002Z

La Roux / In For The Kill

17. ALBUM OF 2009: To Lose My Life...

2009-12-09T21:42:00.002Z

White Lies / To Lose My Life...

17. TRACK OF 2009: Russian Roulette

2009-12-09T21:37:00.000Z

Rihanna / Russian Roulette

18. ALBUM OF 2009: The First Days Of Spring

2009-12-08T19:52:00.001Z

Noah And The Whale / The First Days Of Spring

18. TRACK OF 2009: Undisclosed Desires

2009-12-08T19:49:00.001Z

Muse / Undisclosed Desires

19. ALBUM OF 2009: Hands

2009-12-07T22:50:00.001Z

Little Boots / Hands

19. TRACK OF 2009: Always Like This

2009-12-07T22:45:00.001Z

Bombay Bicycle Club / Always Like This

20. ALBUM OF 2009: Rated R

2009-12-06T18:40:00.002Z

Rihanna / Rated R

20. TRACK OF 2009: Dressed To Digress

2009-12-06T18:39:00.000Z

Boy Crisis / Dressed To Digress

21. ALBUM OF 2009: The Spirit Of Apollo

2009-12-05T13:27:00.009Z

N.A.S.A. / The Spirit Of Apollo

Featuring over 36 guest artists and mixing its origins of Brazilian funk in with everything from hip hop to electronica, N.A.S.A.'s 'The Spirit Of Apollo' could have been a car crash record from the very start but instead it sounds like an eclectic celebration of music as a power to unite, thrill and most importantly inspire. The Spirit Of Apollo is a long record at over 60 minutes, yet in this time we are hit with a stupendous mix of groundbreaking collaborations and sonically astounding tunes. Gifted, featuring Kanye West, Santigold and Lykke Li, is a stunning representation of sheer artistical amazingness while Strange Enough, with the help of Karen O, Ol' Dirty Bastard & Fatlip, brings together the 'fuck you' attitude of punk rock with the undisputed cool of funky hip hop to incredible effect. The Spirit Of Apollo is a magnificent record packed with energy, creativity and sheer fun. By the time you reach the end of this mighty record you feel as though you've become a part of the N.A.S.A. community and start to realise why 'they wanna know who got that N.A.S.A. Music.'

21. TRACK OF 2009: Covers

2009-12-05T13:25:00.000Z

The View / Covers

22. ALBUM OF 2009: Bone Of My Bones

2009-12-04T21:03:00.002Z

Ebony Bones! / Bone Of My Bones

22. TRACK OF 2009: Bonkers

2009-12-04T21:00:00.002Z

Dizzee Rascal And Armand Van Helden / Bonkers

23. ALBUM OF 2009: I Had The Blues But I Shook Them Loose

2009-12-03T23:35:00.000Z

Bombay Bicycle Club / I Had The Blues But I Shook Them Loose

23. TRACK OF 2009: The Muzik

2009-12-03T22:26:00.000Z

Ebony Bones! / The Muzik (Single Version)

24. ALBUM OF 2009: Away From The Sea

2009-12-02T21:57:00.000Z

Yuksek / Away From The Sea

24. TRACK OF 2009: Thunder

2009-12-02T21:56:00.000Z

The Prodigy / Thunder

25. ALBUM OF 2009: Tonight: Franz Ferdinand

2009-12-01T23:43:00.000Z

Franz Ferdinand / Tonight: Franz Ferdinand

25. TRACK OF 2009: Hard Times

2009-12-01T23:34:00.005Z

Patrick Wolf / Hard Times

In a year where uncertainty has reigned and the economic crisis has seemed like a never-ending downward spiral, Patrick Wolf's Hard Times couldn't be more spot on if it tried. Almost seeming like a voice for the people (but that would be too cheesy), Hard Times is an all out baroque pop anthem. Steaming along with the sound of striking violins, hearty guitars and incessant electronic bleeps and blips, it's a relentless call to arms in which Mr. Wolf proclaims 'we'll work harder' before crying out for 'resolution' and 'revolution'. Hard Times is a rousing crusade against the Credit Crunch which manages to sound brilliantly life-affirming in a time where most people couldn't give a shit...but they will now.

Patrick Wolf / Hard Times by ShornStar

THE CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN

2009-12-01T17:39:00.001Z

*SHORN STAR SPECIAL*

Basically, from today until the 25th December I will be counting down my 25 ALBUMS OF 2009 and my 25 TRACKS OF 2009. Let the journey begin....

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Knocked Up

2009-11-28T23:49:00.003Z

Kings Of Leon / Knocked Up

Perhaps KOL's best track ever (!), Knocked Up is a 7 minute epic telling the tale of a couple's struggle as they set about having a child together whilst being shunned by those around them. Heartfelt, sincere and genuinely endearing, Knocked Up evokes everything that's great about KOL as they play out a sublime mix of southern-styled rock around some stadium-sized melodies, carried along by rousing drums and the ever astonishingly raw vocals of lead singer Caleb. The more you listen to this track the more you find there is to discover, cementing its status as a long-standing KOL classic. It really is testament to the band that they have created such a long piece of music which is not only engaging but also has a lot of replayability. This is the sound of a group on top form, making music which is not only fearless but also beautifully honest.

Kings Of Leon / Knocked Up by ShornStar

50 TRACK OF THE NIGHTs: it's official

2009-11-25T23:31:00.012Z

Wahey. I've finally reached the milestone of 50 TRACK OF THE NIGHTs. On reflection that's a lot of writing....anyhow, here's a list of all the TRACK OF THE NIGHTs so far from 1-50:

01. FrankMusik / When You're Around
02. Private / One In A Million
03. Amanda Blank / Might Like You Better
04. Calvin Harris / Yeah Yeah Yeah La La La
05. Simian Mobile Disco / Audacity Of Huge
06. Madonna / Celebration (Benny Benassi Dub)
07. Peaches / I Feel Cream
08. Charlotte Hatherley / White (Adem Remix)
09. Dan Black / Pump My Pumps
10. Cold War Kids / Hang Me Up To Dry
11. Santigold / Your Voice
12. Bloc Party / One More Chance
13. The Big Pink / Dominos
14. Fever Ray / Seven
15. Radiohead / Everything In Its Right Place
16. Kid Cudi / Pursuit Of Happiness (Feat. MGMT & Ratatat)
17. Boy Crisis / Sex & Violence
18. Dizzee Racal / Dirtee Cash
19. Heartsrevolution / Ultraviolence (Feat. Spank Rock)
20. Florence + The Machine / Drumming Song (Jack Beats Remix)
21. Mazzy Star / Fade Into You
22. The xx / Do You Mind?
23. David Bowie / Rebel Rebel (Soulwax Re Edit)
24. Ellie Goulding / Starry Eyed
25. FrankMusik / Dancing In The Dark
26. Jack Beats / Get Down (VIP)
27. Hockey / Wanna Be Black
28. Karen O And The Kids / Hideaway
29. Noah And The Whale / Blue Skies (The Twelves Remix)
30. Ke$ha / TiK ToK
31. N.A.S.A. / Strange Enough (Designer Drugs Remix)
32. Shakira / Did It Again
33. Florence + The Machine / Postcards From Italy
34. White Lies / Unfinished Business
35. Depeche Mode / Enjoy The Silence
36. Yuksek / So Far Away From The Sea
37. Monsters Of Folk / Dear God (Sincerely M.O.F.)
38. Lady GaGa / Bad Romance
39. Bloc Party / Mercury
40. Bitclipr / Discofreak
41. Annie / Songs Remind Me Of You
42. Ellie Goulding / Wish I Stayed (Feat. FrankMusik)
43. Julian Casablancas / 11th Dimension
44. Theophilus London / Pull My Heart Away (Jamie XX Remix)
45. Róisín Murphy / Orally Fixated
46. The Flaming Lips / Borderline (With Stardeath And White Dwarfs)
47. New Order / Age Of Consent
48. M83 / Kim & Jessie
49. Rihanna / Cold Case Love
50. Muse / Undisclosed Desires (Thin White Duke Remix Edit)

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Undisclosed Desires (Thin White Duke Remix Edit)

2009-11-25T22:12:00.001Z

Muse / Undisclosed Desires (Thin White Duke Remix Edit)

Undisclosed Desires is the beautifully dark pop number from Muse's latest album The Resistance. The song is already a bit of a stunner with its staccato strings and dark synthy basslines, however, the Thin White Duke (aka super-producer Stuart Price) has polished it up into a true diamond of a track. Mr. Price has a serious talent for remixes and Undisclosed Desires is no exception as it speeds along with frenetic synths, a juddering beat and impressive use of a vocoder. If this wasn't enough, by the time the remix reaches its stunning climax we are hit by an epic mix of sweeping strings and the storming vocals of Matt Bellamy, in which he wails with pure abandon in a vocal piece which was previously hidden away in the original's dark pop depths. Stuart Price has once again worked his magic by creating a remix which sounds not only euphoric but also surprisingly joyous. This is how remixes should sound - MIND-BLOWING.

Muse / Undisclosed Desires (Thin White Duke Remix Edit) by ShornStar

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Cold Case Love

2009-11-18T22:07:00.004Z

Rihanna / Cold Case Love

So Rihanna took a bit of a beating but now she's back and surprisingly better than ever. Cold Case Love is the track everyone's been waiting for where Rihanna wears her heart on her sleeve and let's us all in on the doomed relationship that was her and Chris Brown. Veering away from what cynics may predict to be an all out 'diss', Cold Case Love is instead a dignified and well observed portrayal of a failed relationship. Penned by Mr. Justin Timberlake himself, with him also featuring on production duties, this has to be one of Rihanna's most lyrically and sonically superior tracks to date. Clocking in at a mighty 6 minutes and 5 seconds, Cold Case Love contains a host of different sounds as it begins with a modest opening of organ chords and subtle beats, until in come some beautiful orchestral flourishes which gradually build up until we are suddenly hit with a barrage of heart-pounding and truly Timberlake-styled beats complete with beatboxing...if that wasn't enough Cold Case Love reaches its thrilling climax by the means of an epic guitar solo - it really is packed. Rihanna's vocals also deserve special mention as she proves that she can do more than belt out a few 'ellas' through her passionate and heartfelt delivery. This is the moment in which Rihanna affirms herself as a true pop artist who has style yet more importantly substance.

Rihanna / Cold Case Love by ShornStar

HINGLEYS HIT OF THE NIGHT: We Throw Parties, You Throw Knives

2009-11-16T23:41:00.001Z

Los Campesinos! / We Throw Parties, You Throw Knives

This is a short but ever so sweet indie pop song from Welsh seven-piece Los Campesinos! This was one of the bands very first tracks and it really does shout out with youthful vibrancy and abandon. We Throw Parties... has a very political edge as the band sing about cherryade, parties and fancy dress all in the context of war, with blood, knives and broken limbs all being mentioned as the band play out a heady mix of hip-shaking indie and syrupy pop harmonies. It may not be particularly groundbreaking but We Throw Parties... proved to be a fine start for a young indie band who have now grown into a truly thrilling act.

Peter says: 'Skank don't shank.'

Excellent.

HINGLEYS HIT OF THE NIGHT

2009-11-16T23:40:00.001Z

What's this!? HINGLEYS HIT OF THE NIGHT?? Okay, it's a new occasional guest slot (well all he does is pick a track) from my good friend Peter.

Above you can see the man himself trying to be a model....

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Kim & Jessie

2009-11-10T23:40:00.002Z

M83 / Kim & Jessie

I'm not gonna lie, I first heard this song when it was featured on an advert for 90210 on E4, which is supposedly quite good (I'm told). Anyhow, Kim & Jessie is an evocative, emotional and stunning piece of music. I can't even start to describe how gorgeous this song is, it literally sounds like it's from another planet. Surrounded by a tumbling wave of epic guitars, charming synths and what sounds like some kind of violin, Kim & Jessie is strangely moving yet deeply spooky all at the same time. Every little detail is perfect, with vocalist Anthony bringing a great level of passion to the track as he softly sings each word in a breathy haze as if he's in a higher state of mind. Kim & Jessie is pure blissed out euphoria and has to be one of the sweetest pieces of dream pop I think I've ever heard, proving M83 to be ethereal royalty.

M83 / Kim & Jessie by ShornStarMan

NEW LADY GAGA VIDEO: Bad Romance

2009-11-10T22:02:00.003Z

Not a lot to say really apart from...its BLOODY BRILLIANT. The long and short of it is GaGa gets drugged, made up like a prostitute and sold on the Russian market - its basically about sex trafficking, which I think is a genius concept to place upon this song. All in all, song and video alike are both MASSIVE.

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Age Of Consent

2009-11-08T22:36:00.001Z

New Order / Age Of Consent

This, the opener to New Order's second album Power, Corruption & Lies is simply wonderful. An understated classic, Age Of Consent really is timeless. Depicting the struggle in a relationship when an age difference stops a pair from "doing" it, Age Of Consent doesn't deal with its subject matter through exaggerated emotion or extreme melodrama, instead we get a very human portrayal of frustration with lead singer Bernard ending by repeatedly singing: "I've lost you / I've lost you / I've lost you / I've lost you / I've lost you". It's all strangely beautiful, helped enormously by the track's fantastic arrangement in which we hear a sublime set of guitars mixed around some luscious 80s synths which not only create a radiant sound but also give the track a great big heart. Synths and emotion aren't always the most successful of combinations but in Age Of Consent New Order rewrite the rules by making a song which is both poignant in feeling and inventive in style. Marvellous.

New Order / Age Of Consent by ShornStarMan

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Borderline

2009-11-07T23:23:00.001Z

The Flaming Lips / Borderline (With Stardeath And White Dwarfs)

So what does The Flaming Lips taking on Madonna sound like? The answer - out of space psychedelic epicness. The Flaming Lips really do have a way with covers of all out pop songs shown previously in their monumental cover of Kylie's Can't Get You Out Of My Head. Borderline is just as mighty, as The Lips morph the original's retro pop grooves into a mind-blowing hybrid of pounding psychedelic keys, which sound as if they've come straight from the 60's, and some grinding almost country-sounding guitars. Along with all this we have the sweet tones of Wayne Coyne which act as the cherry on top of this delicious psychedelic cake. This is how a cover should sound: revived, vibrant, awe-inspiring and most importantly original. It seems The Flaming Lips have succeeded in all these fields by creating a truly astounding cover which blows apart the original and brings it into a glorious new sonic world. HUGE.

The Flaming Lips / Borderline (With Stardeath And White Dwarfs) by ShornStarMan

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Orally Fixated

2009-11-05T21:11:00.002Z

Róisín Murphy / Orally Fixated

The Murphmeister is back and better than ever. She may be heavily pregnant but Róisín is still bashing out some absolutely stellar pop songs which frankly put a lot of artists to shame. Orally Fixated sounds like all the best bits from Overpowered and Ruby Blue wrapped into one. Both highly experimental and shining with pop flair, it is quite possibly Róisín's most innovative work to date. From its lyrical amazingness, which is not only genius but downright suggestive, to its mind-bogglingly manic rush of hyperactive synths, grinding guitar samples and a throbbing bassline, Orally Fixated somehow makes perfect sense. In her thrilling journey through music Róisín has ended up in a gritty, dark and wonderful territory of pop and man does it sound good.

Róisín Murphy / Orally Fixated by ShornStarMan

EXCITING TIMES (Part 2)

2009-11-05T20:01:00.000Z

In other great news, you can now pre-order my other big tip for 2010: Ellie Goulding's utterly brilliant single Under The Sheets from iTunes NOW. I'm sure it'll be worth it just for the Jakwob Remix which I assume will be mind-blowing after their incredible remix of Starry Eyed...so basically click the picture below and get pre-ordering.

EXCITING TIMES

2009-11-05T19:45:00.000Z

This is one of my big tips for 2010 - producer extraordinaire Starsmith - signing his record deal today. Well done that man.

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Pull My Heart Away (Jamie XX Remix)

2009-11-04T22:46:00.001Z

Theophilus London / Pull My Heart Away (Jamie XX Remix)

I luckily got to see Theophilus London support Jack Peñate on his tour last week and boy was he good (various concert related ramblings will follow soon). Anyway, Theo's interpretation of Jack's classic track is pure genius. With the help of Jamie Smith from The xx, who is on a bit of a roll at the moment after his masterpiece remix of Florence's You've Got The Love, the pair turn Pull My Heart Away into a kind of underground hip hop bounce. The track has been injected with a pulsing bass while Jack's vocals are sampled throughout and mix perfectly with Theo's American swagger. This is a first-class re-invention which perfectly blurs the lines between indie and hip hop, showing Theophilus London as a force to be reckoned with. Masterful.

Theophilus London / Pull My Heart Away (Jamie XX Remix) by ShornStarMan

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: 11th Dimension

2009-11-03T22:56:00.004Z

Julian Casablancas / 11th Dimension

So, Mr. Casablancas has finally seen it fit to take a break from The Strokes and go it alone. The result: eclectic pop perfection. 11th Dimension is a real triumph. Not only does it manage to be fantastically retro yet ridiculously current all at the same time, but it is also one of those amazing moments when you realise that within every indie rocker there is a pop maestro dying to get out. In its entirety, 11th Dimension comes off sounding very new wave as it flies through a faultless collection of 80s-style synths and perfectly executed guitar riffs. As usual, Julian's distinctive vocal delivery separates him from the masses and brings a unique charm to an already mesmerizing track. 11th Dimension is one of the year's most irresistible pop propositions and reaffirms Julian as the king of cool...but cooler.

Julian Casablancas / 11th Dimension by ShornStarMan

GET WISH I STAYED NOW FOR FREE

2009-10-30T21:36:00.000Z

Forgot to mention you can download tonights incredible TRACK OF THE NIGHT for free right here:

http://zaphod.uk.vvhp.net/reg/reg.pl?id=4509-110889

All you have to do is give your e-mail and in return you get a bloody great song - now that's a deal.

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Wish I Stayed

2009-10-30T18:37:00.000Z

Ellie Goulding / Wish I Stayed (Feat. FrankMusik)

Right, so I finally get to see Ellie live tomorrow night when she supports Little Boots and I seriously cannot wait. I don't know why but there's something about her which just gets me very very excited. Ellie's music doesn't slap you in the face like music from say Lady GaGa for instance, but to sum it up it's almost like a sort of quiet revolution. Behind all these enchanting arrangements are some very subtle hints of absolute musical genius which Ellie's music doesn't strive for, it just is. Wish I Stayed is a good example of this understated amazingness as Ellie's beautiful vocals soar above a magical backdrop of gentle guitar strings and sublime synths, with the help of FrankMusik on production duties. However, it's Ellie's lyrics which truly make Wish I Stayed the musical diamond it really is, as they beautifully portray her emotional regret about leaving home with an important sense of realism. Words can't even start to describe how much I am anticipating the work that will come from Ellie in 2010 but until then I'm sure she will continue to dazzle us all with her stunning tales of love, life and the universe.

Ellie Goulding / Wish I Stayed (Feat. FrankMusik) by ShornStar

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Songs Remind Me Of You

2009-10-26T23:35:00.000Z

Annie / Songs Remind Me Of You

In case you hadn't heard of her before Annie is a Norwegian singer who makes stunningly realised pop music. Annie herself sings: 'Music so good / Music so clear' on this, the defining moment from her new album Don't Stop, in which this annoyingly unnoticed gem of an artist sings of a boy who she remembers solely through some really great tunes. Songs Remind Me Of You is a literal rush of Italo Disco-style synths and pounding 80's beats, which seem to recall the dazzling arrangements of the synth king himself: Mr. Giorgio Moroder. As the song pulses and pounds along Annie sings in a seemingly whispered tone as her breathy vocals overflow with emotional urgency, adding a big heart to this juggernaut of a track. In Songs Of Remind Me Of You Annie yet again defines pop music in the 21st century proving that she is an artist not to be missed.

Annie / Songs Remind Me Of You by ShornStarBlog

HONEY...I'M HOME

2009-10-26T19:57:00.001Z

I've been sick as a dog since Friday night but I'm finally feeling like more of a human now so I think it's high time for me to crack back on with ye olde blog and share with you all some sweet sweet music. Let's go.......

NEW ELLIE GOULDING VIDEO: Under The Sheets

2009-10-23T17:12:00.000+01:00

Ellie has finally delved into the world of music videos and she's coming in with a bang. Under The Sheets is a stellar pop video which seems reminiscent of some of the classics from back in the good ol' days: the early noughties. The video features various identical Ellie Gouldings wondering around what looks like the Dragon's Den while lots and lots and lots of golden glitter is thrown and drummed (yes you read right - drummed) all over the place. The whole video is a pleasant flash of dazzling pop urgency which works as the perfect introduction to this fanastic new talent. Top dollar.

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Discofreak

2009-10-21T23:05:00.003+01:00

Bitclipr / Discofreak

Bitclipr are a pretty unknown electro group from America who make shockingly good electro-dance music. Discofreak is an absolute demon of a track and hits you from the very first listen. The track slowly builds up with a pretty slick hip-shaking guitar riff backed by a pulsing beat until....in comes the absolutely killer synth melody with its grinding tones to remind you that this is more than your average piece of electro. There is something strangely euphoric about Discofreak as it pounds along with the sound of robotic drones and computers blasting out of control while engraving itself into your brain. It's refreshing to hear an electro track that is not only ridiculously addictive but is also fantastically original, a quality missing from much of today's many commercial electro tracks. In other words, Discofreak kicks ass.

Bitclipr / Discofreak by ShornStarBlog

NEW MARINA & THE DIAMONDS VIDEO: Mowgli's Road

2009-10-21T22:12:00.002+01:00

How brilliant is this! Not only is it a fantastic parody of Beyoncé's Single Ladies with the whole 3 ladies dancing in front of a white screen business but it also features Marina and her pals with blue puppet legs, then arms, then bodies!!!! Call it quirky, kooky, whatever you like...at the end of the day Marina is seriously hot, utterly bonkers and completely amazing.

SHORN CIARAN = DUDE

2009-10-21T18:41:00.004+01:00

Possibly the best website come blog EVER. It's got it all: graffiti, a Yoda game, a pleasant picture of Ayers Rock, over 19,000 views and some killer links...oh, and did I mention that it's oh so smooth and creamy.

Basically, check out this bad boy:

CLICK CLICK CLICK ↓

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Mercury

2009-10-20T23:42:00.002+01:00

Bloc Party / Mercury

First of all, I'd like to say I literally just got back from seeing Bloc Party live for the second time and they were bloody brilliant! Secondly, when I first heard Mercury I absolutely hated it however, after seeing Bloc Party perform it at Reading Festival this year something clicked, and I can now see that it is in fact pure and utter genius. In a world filled with formulaic indie Bloc Party are highly distinctive amongst their contemporaries as they continue to breeze through an array of different genres whilst pushing the boundaries of musical experimentalism. Mercury is most definitely Bloc Party's experimental tour-de-force as they play out a frantic mix of indie, electro, alternative dance and believe it or not brass. From the ridiculously catchy use of a vocal pedal (Mercury M-M-M-Mercury Mercury's in Mercury's in retrograde) to the African-esque drumbeat breakdown, Mercury is absolutely crammed with a million different musical references, making it one of Bloc Party's most captivating and unbelievable pieces of music to date.

Bloc Party / Mercury by ShornStarBlog

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Bad Romance

2009-10-19T18:56:00.002+01:00

Lady GaGa / Bad Romance

Blimey. This really did take me by surprise. I always had a feeling there was something special about Lady GaGa but I never expected her to create a pop song quite as incredible as this. Imagine Just Dance, Poker Face, Paparazzi and LoveGame all being put into a massive melting pot, turn the heat up to a million and there you have Bad Romance. With the help of acclaimed producer RedOne Lady GaGa has created an absolutely mammoth pop song which is just as sinister as it is danceable. From it's Poker Face-esque chant-style hook to the absolutely gigantic chorus, this is pop music at its most thrilling. In the space of just under 5 minutes we are hit with a barrage of rave-style synths, pounding beats, some humongous basslines and the earth shattering vocals of GaGa herself. Strangely enough, Bad Romance comes off sounding like some sort of ridiculously epic war chant in which GaGa stakes her claim as the new first lady of pop while commanding her troops to hit the dancefloor. MONSTROUS.

Lady GaGa / Bad Romance by ShornStarBlog

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Dear God (Sincerely M.O.F.)

2009-10-18T22:42:00.004+01:00

Monsters Of Folk / Dear God (Sincerely M.O.F.)

Monsters Of Folk are a supergroup made up of Bright Eyes' Conor Oberst and Mike Mogis, Jim James of My Morning Jacket and M. Ward. This, the opener to their self-titled debut is an absolute dream. Almost reminiscent of the sound of Marvin Gaye in his What's Going On heyday, Dear God is a lush heavenly sounding letter to God, filled to the brim with flowing harps, delicate guitar strings and a gentle beat. Not forgetting the incredible vocals of Conor, Jim and M. Ward which saunter along as they break into some truly angelic harmonies. This is literally music sent from heaven and has to be one of the best album openers I've heard all year. It seems that Monsters Of Folk have smashed expectations by creating some truly timeless and beautiful music.

Monsters Of Folk / Dear God (Sincerely M.O.F.) by ShornStarBlog

BONKERS SPANISH ELECTRO-INDIE: Cof Cof

2009-10-17T23:39:00.020+01:00

Ever since Cof Cof randomly added me as friends on MySpace I've been strangely attracted to their completely off the wall brand of music. Somehow emanating the same lewd international charm we encountered from CSS, Cof Cof make fun electro-indie which laughs in the face of common musical conventions. It's obvious that they show little consideration for the whole deep emotions: love, life and the universe shebang, as instead Cof Cof opt for writing about everything from cell phones to forbidden cocktails. This irrelevant sense of nuttiness strangely translates into very human sounding songs in which the duo bring such mundane items as computers and mobile phones into a wild and wonderful musical context, with the end result being oddly successful. The accent-heavy vocals of singer Ana may not necessarily always be in tune as she sings over a wide array of different electronic bleeps, blips and guitar strings, yet you somehow forgive this fact as you realise that this really is just the sound of two Spanish friends having fun, with this sense of complete and utter abandon giving Cof Cof their appeal. There is a definite gap in the musical world for some wacky international imports and Cof Cof seem like the duo to fill it.

Cof Cof / My HDD Is Broken

This is the song that originally got me hooked on Cof Cof. It can only be described as a barmy ode to our love of technology and the horrors we face when it all goes to shite. Utterly pointless but completely true, this is the sound of a band on the edge of madness and the forefront of amazing.

Cof Cof / My HDD is broken by ShornStarMusic

MySpace link:

Cof Cof

NEW LITTLE BOOTS VIDEO: Earthquake

2009-10-16T19:23:00.005+01:00

Finally, we have a video that perfectly depicts the essence of Little Boots. New In Town seemed highly misconstrued while Remedy may have been flashy but it was essentially just performance shots with the kaleidoscope effect turned on. Earthquake on the other hand is an all out mind-blowing CGI fest. There are cosmic explosions in the sky (imagine the Northern Lights gone mad), incredible slo-mo raindrops and a silver heart which literally explodes with stardust. By the end of the video we see Little Boots raising up into the sky from the city below as she moves into an almost godly position. Extraordinary.

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: So Far Away From The Sea

2009-10-15T23:55:00.003+01:00

Yuksek / So Far Away From The Sea

Yuksek is a Parisian DJ and music producer who creates seriously thrilling electronic music. Born from the wondrous depths of the beguiling French music scene So Far Away From The Sea is a passionate ode to love, loss and the sea. There is something oddly entrancing about So Far Away From The Sea through the way in which it seems to transcend many electro conventions by showing clear references to indie, new wave and psychedelia. It's a hypnotic mix, filled with gentle keys, sprightly synths, glowing harmonies and the almost retro-style vocals of Yuksek. Everything seems to magically fall into place as So Far Away From The Sea works as a modern-day cornerstone for electronic experimentation. Just lovely.

Yuksek / So Far Away From The Sea by ShornStarMusic

UNCHARTED SOUL: Airto

2009-10-15T23:23:00.004+01:00

To put it simply, Airto has got the voice. Oozing pure unadultered soul with some of the smoothest and creamiest tones and textures I think I've ever heard from a white male vocalist, Airto is a literal diamond in the rough. Citing his influences as being the likes of Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway and Luther Vandross, it is clear why Airto's vocals evoke the pure essence of soul music and act as an impressive throwback to these long-standing kings of soul. First publicising his musical adventures on YouTube, Airto has gained an understated yet commited following who all feel drawn to his effortless covers of artists and groups ranging from the Kings Of Leon to Justin Timberlake. Airto has a definite way with covers, stripping them back to their bare bones whilst pulling out as much soul from them as he can find.

Airto / Chasing Pavements

This is the cover which truly made me notice Airto as he beautifully portrays the song's lyrical notions about the trials and tribulations of love with a ridiculously deep intensity of emotion. A majestic and subtley powerful cover which bowls you over from the very start.

Airto / Heartless

A sublime creation which finds Airto taking this Kanye classic into newfound heights of soul while he even adds his own new lyrics to the mix which complement the track perfectly. All this makes for a truly mesmerising cover.

There's something about Airto that definitely shouts out star...it just seems a question of when. Hopefully, this young man from the Netherlands will finally get the opportunities and recognition he truly deserves as he brings back the soul that we just couldn't forget.

Links:

Airto's YouTube

Airto's MySpace

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Enjoy The Silence

2009-10-14T23:39:00.002+01:00

Depeche Mode / Enjoy The Silence

An absolute classic. Taken from the masterpiece that is Violator, in which Depeche Mode successfully tied up the links between synthpop and alternative rock to form dark wave; Enjoy The Silence is a complete and utter enigma. Despite containing one of the greatest pop choruses of all time, this wonder of a chorus is surrounded by an awe-inspiring mix of haunting synths, dark guitar chords and an obscure underlying dance beat - not the most normal of pop arrangements yet this simply adds to the track's charm and pure brilliance. If that wasn't enough, Dave Gahan also adds a beautiful sense of emotion to the track as his deceptively deep yet sweet vocals mix perfectly into the track's dynamic arrangement as he sings "all I ever wanted, all I ever needed, is here in my arms" in such a yearning manner it sounds as if he could break down in tears. With Enjoy The Silence Depeche Mode proved that dark synthpop didn't have to sound cold and lifeless as they brought as much emotion to the track as they did synths. A timeless reminder of a band at the pinnacle of their career. Mind-bogglingly brilliant.

Depeche Mode / Enjoy The Silence by ShornStarMusic

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Unfinished Business

2009-10-12T22:17:00.005+01:00

White Lies / Unfinished Business

White Lies have been a force to be reckoned with this year. Not only did their debut album 'To Lose My Life...' go straight to number 1 but they've also massed a stunning number of incredible live performances. Unfinished Business is a definite highlight from their stellar debut and proves that even these dark indie-rockers from Ealing can create a chorus the size of Mount Everest. Unfinished Business has anthem written all over it. Not only does it manage to describe a dying relationship in the most epic way possible (death, God, blood, thunder, wind, rain, snow and smoke and mirrors are all mentioned) but it also plays host to a seriously mighty arrangement comprising of a Godly church organ, some tight-as-hell guitar riffs and a thunderous drumbeat. White Lies have created a positively rousing piece of music in Unfinished Business which you can somehow see people chanting as some kind of battle cry in years to come...COLOSSAL.

White Lies / Unfinished Business by ShornStarMusic

NEW FLORENCE VIDEO: You've Got The Love

2009-10-12T20:05:00.009+01:00

Very nice video but not so sure about the new single version with the new vocals. In fact, I'm not gonna lie...this new single version doesn't even come close to her original cover version! Florence, what's going on!?

NEW MICHAEL JACKSON SONG: This Is It

2009-10-12T17:33:00.017+01:00

Surprisingly it's not actually too bad. It was never going to be the perfect way to end his career but This Is It somehow manages to stray away from trying to modernise Michael eg. being pumped up on R&B beats and electronics. Instead, it works as a timeless sounding reflection in which Michael sings of reaching some kind of pinnacle in his life - how ironic. The lyrics of the song are nothing special...pretty standard swan song material to put it bluntly, but it's the music behind Michael that really stands out. There are flowing strings, clicking fingers, a pretty classic MJ guitar piece (just listen to Human Nature) played throughout and some wonderfully cheesy yet somehow perfectly placed choir harmonies, at points it even sounds as if MJ's about to start singing the classic (I've Had) The Time Of My Life but sadly the track never quite reaches these dizzy heights of feel-good euphoria. As a whole, This Is It ends up sounding quite dreamy which seems like the best place to leave MJ in our minds as we look back and contemplate how he was and still is the King of Pop.

★★★

STEPHEN GATELY: 1976-2009

2009-10-11T15:32:00.003+01:00

I can't say I was ever a real fan but I know Stephen Gately was talented in the field of music he worked in, so for him to die at the age of 33 when I'm sure he had so much more to give is a pretty sad thing.

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Postcards From Italy

2009-10-11T15:14:00.003+01:00

Florence + The Machine / Postcards From Italy

Florence takes on Beirut in this truly beautiful cover. The original's jubilant bounce is transformed by Florence into a poignant sway as she strips back the original's tropical stylings so we are left with just her voice and a lone ukulele. This is an astounding mix, with Florence's powerful vocals soaring above the warm strings of the ukulele as she switches from sweet croons to commanding wails in a matter of moments. It has to be said Florence's vocals really do carry the track as she even replicates the horn section of the original through some dazzling vocal acrobatics. This is an exquisite cover which yet again justifies Florence as one of the most compelling artists of our time.

Florence + The Machine / Postcards From Italy by ShornStar

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Did It Again

2009-10-10T22:36:00.004+01:00

Shakira / Did It Again

Definitely one of the finest imports straight from Colombia Shakira truly is a bonafide popstar. If you thought She Wolf was good you ain't heard nothing yet. Did It Again is a distinct style change for Shakira as she embraces the hip hop come R&B beats of Pharrell yet still manages to spread her definite Shakira stamp all over it. The track is one of those pop songs which is catchy as hell, will make you want to move yet at the same time has an underlying sense of melancholy, with the premise of the song itself showing some sombre self-analysis: "I did it again now, I got it all wrong / But it felt so right, I can't believe it." In terms of danceability Did It Again is up there with Shakira's greats with it's rattling drumbeat, lush synth sequences and some seriously hook-laden vocal takes from the woman herself. The track even has one of those classic breakdowns where we're left with just Shakira and the beautiful synth riff as you begin to contemplate that this really is just more than your bog-standard pop fodder. Once again, Shakira has proved to be one of the most interesting female pop artists around as she effortlessly moves into new musical territories while still retaining her unique pop flair and superiority.

Shakira / Did it Again by ShornStar

BIG TIP FOR 2010: Ellie Goulding

2009-10-10T17:46:00.019+01:00

Ellie Goulding should have a lot to look forward to in 2010, not only does she already have an array of top class pop songs which are begging to invade radio stations across the country, but she is also a refreshingly new kind of pop star. In an industry currently swarmed with ladies and their synths Ellie Goulding is leading a crusade for a more organic form of electronic pop. Many of her songs are encompassed in truly beautiful electroacoustic soundscapes while her potent lyrics cite love in both its good and bad forms...all this comes together to produce the sound of a singer-songwriter veering away from the middle of the road and heading straight for the dizzy heights of unique pop stardom. Though this all sounds very dreamy and unreal Ellie's songs somehow manage to represent true human emotion in a truly magical and intriguing context whilst still maintaining a sense of realism for the listener. This is most definitely the sound of pop in 2010.

Now, I can't really mention Ellie without mentioning Starsmith - her musical partner in crime. Starsmith is responsible for many of the beautiful backdrops behind Ellie's songs and he also looks likely to shine in 2010. With a host of wonderful mixes under his belt and a really exciting ability to create spellbinding pop tunes which I haven't been seen from a producer in a long time, Starsmith looks prepared to set the musical world alight.

You can listen to Ellie's new Starsmith-produced single Under The Sheets here:

Ellie Goulding / Under The Sheets by ShornStar

You can also check out Ellie's collaboration with FrankMusik entitled Wish I Stayed here:

Ellie Goulding / Wish I Stayed (Feat. FrankMusik) by ShornStar

MySpace links:

Ellie Goulding

Starsmith

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Strange Enough (Designer Drugs Remix)

2009-10-07T16:56:00.004+01:00

N.A.S.A. / Strange Enough (Feat. Karen O, Ol' Dirty Bastard & Fatlip) (Designer Drugs Remix)

N.A.S.A. are a DJ duo who've worked with over 36 different artists on their album, dabbled in an incredible array of different genres and cultures and out of all this ended up sounding ridiculously recent thanks to sheer vision and artistic determination. Strange Enough is a prime example of how the duo are able to take a bunch of completely different artists, throw them into a track and make it work. Strange Enough in its original form has it's roots firmly placed in hip hop yet Designer Drugs take it to a whole new level by pushing the track head first into a throbbing whirlpool of dark synths, grinding basslines and generally sinister forms of electronica. Even Karen O ends up sounding demonic as her vocals are twisted into a deliciously evil chant due to the heavy use of a vocoder. This really is a stellar remix from Designer Drugs which not only changes the whole atmosphere of the track yet also rivals the original for greatness.

N.A.S.A. / Strange Enough (Feat. Karen O, Ol' Dirty Bastard & Fatlip) (Designer Drugs Remix) by ShornStar

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: TiK ToK

2009-10-05T19:27:00.003+01:00

Ke$ha / TiK ToK

Despite a little voice in my head telling me I shouldn't like this (probably because of the modern day pressures of having to look all "indie") I honestly can't get this song out of my head.You may recognise Ke$ha from her appearance on Flo Rida's track Right Round in which she features, however, to be honest that song doesn't really do her a lot of justice. TiK ToK on the other hand pretty much secures her status as the new pop it girl...to put it bluntly, it's a great big fuck off pop song. I honestly think it's going to be HUGE. The track itself has this great electropop vibe going on with a nice touch of auto-tune (but not too much) as Ke$ha sings about "feeling like P Diddy" and "brushing her teeth with a bottle of Jack" - it's all about getting smashed at parties basically, which may be pretty generic but constitutes for a great pop song. So there we have it, it's all pretty simple really, Ke$ha has created an ass-kicking pop song with an absolutely GINORMOUS chorus that is pretty damn likely to blow up the charts. Ace.

Ke$ha / TiK ToK by ShornStarOfficial

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Blue Skies (The Twelves Remix)

2009-10-04T21:12:00.005+01:00

Noah And The Whale / Blue Skies (The Twelves Remix)

Noah And The Whale have really come into their own this year with the release of their sophomore masterpiece The First Days Of Spring, in which they show off a much more mature sound which reaches great new heights of indie folk epicness compared to the less expansive sounds of their debut. Blue Skies is a definite highlight with its poignant lyrics, lush arrangement and beautifully hopeful message it really has a fantastically positive vibe. In the hands of The Twelves the feel good factor is rammed up to 100 as the track is transformed into a hip-shaking indie delight. The original's lush acoustic guitar pieces are now replaced with a truly funky guitar jam which rides the track along at a fantastic pace as a refreshing mixture of cow bells, the occasional synth and some lovely flourishes of piano ensue. A subtle yet highly infectious remix for whenever you feel like smiling.

Noah And The Whale / Blue Skies (The Twelves Remix) by ShornStarOfficial

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Hideaway

2009-10-03T23:21:00.003+01:00

Karen O And The Kids / Hideaway

It really seems like good, well thought out movie soundtracks are finally on the increase. Where The Wild Things Are is no exception as Karen O of Yeah Yeah Yeahs fame takes control, creating a truly magical soundtrack for a truly magical film. Hideaway is a beautifully laid back track full of gentle emotion and introspection. Karen O is on sterling form, proving yet again that she can not only scream but she can also purr as her vocals gently float across the track's delicate backdrop of acoustic guitars, plodding drums and a twinkling xylophone. Hideaway as a whole sounds very reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac's classic Albatross and seems like the perfect summation of Karen O's talents as a heartfelt storyteller. Poignantly wonderful.

Karen O And The Kids / Hideaway by ShornStarOfficial

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Wanna Be Black

2009-10-02T21:46:00.004+01:00

Hockey / Wanna Be Black

Hockey's debut album Mind Chaos isn't the greatest debut in the world yet somehow some things are just destined to be below par. However, the mighty Wanna Be Black is a bit of a stand out track, telling the tale of a guy who, in his younger days, desperately wants to be black but sadly will never reach this goal and will ultimately fail in life. The track is a pretty gritty affair compared to some of Hockey's other more smiley happy arrangements with a heady mix of dirty guitars, an intriguing whiff of disco in the bassline, a slapping beat and the soulful vocals of lead singer Benjamin. The lyrics are particularly excellent: "What kind of accomplishment is throwback? I was the first one to prefer that. Everyone's making dance music true, but we started in 2002." Nice. Wanna Be Black really is a track of the moment as Hockey lay no claims to the past and simply ask:

"So what the future don't appeal to you?"

Hockey / Wanna Be Black by ShornStarOfficial

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Get Down (VIP)

2009-10-01T21:59:00.005+01:00

Jack Beats / Get Down (VIP)

Jack Beats are dropping a bomb through your speakers which is literally INCREDIBLE. Get Down is an absolute BANGER of a tune, featuring some of the dirtiest, grimiest, heaviest and more importantly the most thrilling beats, basslines and synths I've heard all year. They really are ones to watch...not only have they created some amazing remixes this year for the likes of Florence + The Machine (check out further down), La Roux and Hockey but their own creations are literally MINDBLOWING. There's little more to say really as this seems like a time when I think it's best to let the music do the talking. Oh, and in case you don't believe that this isn't going to be any good this was my initial reaction to the track: BLOODY HELL...INSANE!

"And then it happened..."

Jack Beats / Get Down (VIP) by ShornStarOfficial

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Dancing In The Dark

2009-09-30T22:27:00.004+01:00

FrankMusik / Dancing In The Dark

1. This is not a Bruce Springsteen cover. 2. This is officially FrankMusik's second time on TRACK OF THE NIGHT 3. This is incredibly good. Less full-on compared to the previously featured When You're Around, Dancing In The Dark is an intriguing proposition complete with jungle-style melodies, a clattering industrial drumbeat, a tasty bit of synths and one humongous chorus. The lyrics in particular are fantastically executed with such lines as "When I kiss you in the dark our shadows don't know where to start" and the almighty chorus line, "Can we dance in the dark and I can see your heart." Despite it's epic qualities Dancing In The Dark ends up sounding surprisingly understated and clocks in at a neat 3:35, proving it to be a perfectly formed gem of a track. Yet again FrankMusik has a created a sublime piece of pop which most definitely deserves your attention.

FrankMusik / Dancing In The Dark by ShornStarMan

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Starry Eyed

2009-09-29T18:01:00.006+01:00

Ellie Goulding / Starry Eyed

I present to you Ellie Goulding with possibly the most perfect pop moment of the year so far. Starry Eyed is a delicate depiction of falling in love and to be honest it's truly magical. Ellie's enchantingly childlike vocals pierce through the magical electroacoustic soundscape (courtesy of upcoming producer Starsmith) as she sings of lightning, colours and carousels. This really is a dream of a track and by the time you reach the pinnacle moment in which Ellie chants "next thing, we're touching..." you literally feel like you've gone to heaven. The beauty of Starry Eyed is the way in which it doesn't strive to be too in your face or over the top, instead it ends up sounding unassumingly wonderful and essentially effortless. With all this in mind, it looks like Ellie has a very bright future ahead of her...she could well be pop's best kept secret.

Ellie Goulding / Starry Eyed by ShornStarMan

A big mention should also go the Jakwob remix of Starry Eyed which you can hear right here (it's pretty AMAZING - definitely takes the track to another level!):

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Rebel Rebel (Soulwax Re Edit)

2009-09-28T21:04:00.003+01:00

David Bowie / Rebel Rebel (Soulwax Re Edit)

Rebel Rebel is already such a classic but in the hands of Soulwax it becomes an all out high octane club thriller. I first heard this version at a friend's (URSA//MINOR's) DJ set and it pretty much blew my mind. The re edit starts with the sounds of Soulwax totally fucking about with the track while they throw in some nice little samples of Bowie's other great track DJ. Then, in comes the classic guitar riff and the nostalgia begins until...what's this!? Some fantastic new beats arrive as the classic guitar riff is suddenly thrown through a filter, basically turning the EPIC level up to a 1000. Amazingly, Soulwax make Rebel Rebel sound even more life-affirming than before and equal to that it now sounds officially danceable. This is the sound of Rebel Rebel flying through space at a million miles per hour...WOW.

David Bowie / Rebel Rebel (Soulwax Re Edit) by ShornStarMan

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Do You Mind?

2009-09-27T22:12:00.003+01:00

The xx / Do You Mind?

It's really refreshing to hear a pretty alternative band cover a piece of smooth funky house, in the form of Kyla's Do You Mind?, without making it sound like some desperate Live Lounge cover. World's apart from the original's deluxe beats and breaks The xx turn Do You Mind? into a potent love song filled with soft guitars and urging drums. However, the song's crowning glory has to be the awe-inspiring vocals of Romy and Oliver which literally soar above the song's romantic backdrop as the couple exchange suggestions of intimate encounters without sounding overly provocative or forced. This really is a sublime effort from The xx and once again reaffirms their status as the year's finest alternative group.

The xx / Do You Mind? by ShornStarMan

TRACK OF THE NIGHT: Fade Into You

2009-09-26T22:01:00.005+01:00

Mazzy Star / Fade Into You

Bit of a quiet one for a Saturday night but this song really is a revelation. Fade Into You is the kind of track that you've been hearing for most of your life, from when you're really young, but it's only until you're older that you finally discover it properly and think wow...this really is a masterpiece. The whole atmosphere that comes from Fade Into You is really magical and dark, with Hope Sandoval's vocals soaring across the track in a sultry yet vulnerable tone while hypnotic guitar riffs come and go, taking the song into a place where other artists could only dream of being in. In short, this is the gentle anthem of the 90's which has stood the test of time. Wondrously beautiful.

Mazzy Star / Fade Into You by ShornStarMan