Once, twice, three times a lady...

Diana Vickers - former X Factor contestant and West End Little Voice - is gearing up to release her debut album 'Songs From The Tainted Cherry Tree' on May 3rd and looks set to conquer the charts next month upon the release of her brand new single, 'Once.'

The tune seems to leave behind Vickers' more alternative outlook on music as previously seen on 2008's series of popular talent show 'The X Factor' in favour of a more electronic edge with prominent contributions of ethereal-esque sounds and synthy shenanigans. What I enjoy most about the track is the quirky addition of grunge-worthy guitars and Diana's folky vocals which transcend beautifully as the chorus explodes onto the scene in a full-on pop orgasm.

Like me, if you are eagerly awaiting new music from this edgy songstress be sure to check out her official site for news updates here. In the mean time, check out the music video for 'Once' below:

All i've ever wanted.

On October 19th several friends and I were fortunate enough to visit Wembley Arena in London to see Kelly Clarkson perform on her second major world tour, which is in support of her highly successful fourth studio album 'All I Ever Wanted.'

After gorging on a quick Maccy D's and a much-needed toilet break, we started to gather at the standing area in front of the stage to await the magic. Before I knew it, support act Parachute had already finished their slot and anxiety had begun to set in amongst the audience; it was so hot that even a fully-fledged BBQ seemed achievable as i stared at a bald man's roasting head which annoyingly overshadowed my line of vision.

As the lights flickered on, then off and then back on again Kelly finally emerged amidst a static whirlwind of electric guitars and drums to sing the album's toe-tapping title track, 'All I Ever Wanted.' I distinctly remember turning towards my friend and failing to catch her attention as i shouted 'SHE'S FUCKING AMAZING!!' Afterwards, Kelly expressed her gratitude to us for being there and to London's infamous shopping scene for the purchase of her new scarf which she wore for the first time that night. She justified her decision by stating: 'I didn't think it looked that Rock 'n Roll, but I’m not Rock 'n Roll so...' Once again - amazing. As the night continued she consistently entertained and entertained, belting out such hits as 'Never Again', 'Since U Been Gone' and an acoustic rendition of 'Behind These Hazel Eyes.' I suspect that she owned two or three versions of the same t-shirt as her back sweat miraculously disappeared numerous times over the course of the evening ... but i'd best keep quiet. My personal highlight of the night was Kelly's final encore, 'My Life Would Suck Without You' - although not a firm favourite, I was still jumping up and down like a Neanderthal on crack in a care-free state of excitement that left me going home in the taxi with a huge grin across my face. Just marvellous.

You can buy Kelly Clarkson's current album 'All I Ever Wanted' here.

Easy as ABC...

Europop Danes, Alphabeat released their sophomore album, 'The Beat Is...' on March 1st and in honour of this I took note of the new songs that I feel could be potential hit singles in the near future.

'The Beat Is...' introduces the album perfectly with an infecious stop and start rhythm that'll literally transport you straight into a scene from Oliver: 'Please Sir, can I have some more?' The hard-hitting bleeps and click-clock-clicks are seamlessly integrated within the beat to well and truly cement Alphabeat's return to the quirky-pop scene. Listen out for the epic glass-smashing sound effect.

'Heatwave' rather surprisingly displays a different side to the album with a pulsating production of anthemic, club-worthy synths and screechy vocals that reminisce of early 90s dance music. Definately one of the more upbeat tunes.

'365 Degrees', although only available on limited editions of the album, is particularly likeable through its undeniably catchy melody that bares similarities to the band’s 'Fascination' days. Unlike many of the songs on the album, it doesn't try to be an over-exaggerated, ground-breaking piece of musical artistry, and instead maintains one simple purpose: to move our feet. And rightly so.

If after reading that you want to hear more, purchase a copy of the album here.
Listen below:

Introducing Alex Gardner...

Alex Gardner is an 18-year-old singer-songwriter from Scotland whose musical influences include the likes of Elvis Presley and George Michael. It is believed that Brian Higgins, one half of legendary production team Xenomania - the magic behind Girls Aloud, has worked with Gardner on his debut album, as well as his upcoming single, 'Im Not Mad.'

The tune maintains a mid-tempo beat with mature additions of slick, synth action that compliment Gardner's suavely soulful voice. His husky vocals over the words 'I couldn't hurt you, and i'm the one to talk too' will no doubt be melting the hearts of excitable teens everywhere in the coming months.

'Im Not Mad' is released on March 22nd, the single is available for pre-order here. Meanwhile, you can listen to the track below:

Here's a Worm-tastic mash-up for you!

I apologize for the lack of posts over the past few months, but i've been insanely busy with college work and preparation for university. I intend to update the blog wherever possible so please watch this space! Thanks.

Let's start the New Year with a bang, shall we? I've recently been obsessed with the work of DJ Earworm, an anonymous, webified-wacko whose distinctive mash-ups of yearly top 25 songs have sparked an increasing amount of interest. Don’t be put off as a result of bad experiences with other tuneless medleys either, this little invertebrate makes big anthems that will make you get up and shake your groove 'ting.

Earworms' 2009 mix, appropriately titled 'United State Of Pop (Blame In On The Pop)', includes danceable combinations from the likes of Lady GaGa, Black Eyed Peas, Jay Sean, Beyonce and many more. It certainly proves that last year was culture-defining in terms of amazing music. Be sure to grab a free download on the official site www.djearworm.com and check out the mash-ups for 2008 and 2007. They're 'zinging.'