The Knife Are Shaking The Habitual Way

Admittedly, I discovered this artist backwards - I first found Fever Ray, which led me to find The Knife. Also, admittedly, I didn't appreciate The Knife the first time I listened, it took me months to come around to them. However, I've finally found the love for them!

I know this album was released in April, but like I say, it's been a while since I've been able to post, so listening and reviewing them has been out of the question. So, here I am!

I had a mixed opinion on this album. It has been split into two CDs, which virtually contrast each other. CD 1 has a strange take on their style, but overall is generally enjoyable. 'A Tooth For An Eye' is the opening track, and entirely lovable! It is definitely the stand-out track on the first side, possible the album all together.

CD 2, however, goes into a weird and wonderful world of the unknown. (I'm not kidding, you have to listen to understand.) The music on the second side mainly involves roughly 10 minute tracks of sounds rather than actual musical material, which is where my mixed views come from. 'Fracking Fluid Injection' was probably the strangest one - almost entirely sound effects and wailing. It was at this point I wasn't too sure what I thought, until the final track, 'Ready To Lose', changed my mind completely. It was like falling out of love and being drawn back in again!

Overall, there were times that I wish they would have created an album much like their 2006 release 'Silent Shout', as this sadly isn't as easy to listen to. However, I do feel that it will be a grower, much like their (and Fever Ray's) music altogether, which does take a while to appreciate. There is definitely still hope in the album, even if it is just the tracks that are easy to love.

Hail To The King, Avenged Sevenfold!

When I went onto my Youtube account, I had the shock of my life along with excitement - A new Avenged song came up. Better yet, an advert appeared for a new upcoming album in August!

Naturally, Avenged Sevenfold have had a huge influence on my life and music taste ever since I discovered them properly three years ago, when I was 14. Their music fits just about any mood, and a lot of it I connected with, especially when I was going through a really hard time.

A year after my Great Auntie passed on, 'Dear God' was my saviour and depressant all at the same time. I adored the song, and it really explained how I felt, through the beauty of the words and music. Three days later, I got Nightmare, which became so hard to listen to due to the circumstances.

Needless to say that this band have a special place in my heart. Hearing they had a new single was amazing! Immediately, I checked it out.

I'm sure you've already guessed what my opinion was on it - I loved it! I'd say the only thing that's slightly disappointing is that the drum line is rather plain compared to past Avenged music, but, at the same time, who can blame them for simplifying what used to be their late dear brother's talent? No one could possibly replace Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan.

However, this simplified drum part works to their advantage in some ways as well. It really brings out the always-elaborate dual guitar part of Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengeance. The song, as a whole, really has the "classic" rock/metal feel, and, as always, M. Shadows' voice suits the music perfectly!

So, 'Hail To The King' really does bring Avenged Sevenfold back on the music scene. After this taster, I'm intrigued to find out what their new album will be like as a whole.

Now the waiting game begins: August 26th is the album release date and a trip to Britain is arranged in November/December. (Eep!!) This year could be another big one for them!

Bon Jovi, What About Now Tour

So, Wednesday June 12th, my mother and I went to see her heros. Bon Jovi surprised us both by visiting Cardiff and treating us to an entertaining night of music in the Cardiff City Stadium.

Well, my mum said that it was one of the best concerts she's seen them play (for the woman who's seen them eight times). And, I must say, they were on form! Opening with 'That's What The Water Made Me' really did get the crowd going, although it did shock me that they didn't begin with 'Because We Can'. I thought that was true opening material, but then again who can complain with surprises!

Bon Jovi began by playing a few of their new songs, which were a fantastic start to the night. However, shortly after he went straight back into the classics, which immediately increased the excitement of the crowd. With songs like 'You Give Love A Bad Name', 'Always' and, one of my personal favourites, 'It's My Life', it's hard not to!

Throughout the night they played songs old and new, and it was a perfect way to spend an evening of exciting music. The finale was, unsurprisingly, 'Livin' On A Prayer'. My mum was honestly disappointed because Jon Bon Jovi brought out his acoustic, and started singing calmly. Although she loves the acoustic version, she really wanted me to see him play the original.

Well... That she got. Halfway through, the sound changed completely, and the original took form. Our night was complete; a taster of the acoustic, a dance together to the original!

Honestly, it was a spectacular performance. The scenery was interesting - a huge car frame with a big screen above (as seen here) - and, although it was disappointing that Richie Sambora wasn't there, the guitarist who stepped in was equally as talented. They should be proud of their performance, because, in all, I won't be forgetting that night for a long time to come.

What About Now, Bon Jovi?

(Found in the depth of my computer!!!! I have catching up to do!)

If you haven’t heard of Bon Jovi then there is clearly something wrong with your connection to the world of music! Ever since the 80s when they made it big, they have had a huge influence on the rock world of music. Their latest release, ‘What About Now’, precedes their Greatest Hits, and has already made a hit.

It’s clear to everyone now that, sadly, their ‘Livin’ On A Prayer’ days are over. (Is it a wonder really? No one could ever beat that!) However, they certainly improved from their rather disappointing release ‘The Circle’. Nothing ever stood out to me on that album, but on this one there are definite signs of development.

‘What About Now’ immediately wins the battle between the two because they have their sound back. ‘The Circle’ just didn’t portray the sound that makes Bon Jovi them, which is probably why the CD didn’t stand out. It lacked their personal character. ‘Because We Can’, the opening track of their current album, holds their more modern sound nicely, post ‘Have A Nice Day’. There are obvious differences in their sound, but overall it is recognisable and enjoyable.

I am sad to say that their ‘hit’ days are over, and it is clear that they have reached their peak with song writing, but nevertheless that doesn’t mean that their music isn’t enjoyable anymore. My mother, for instance, still holds a strong love for them that will continue forever (believe me, it will.), and I am sure their fan base will not by any means give up on the band, even with the departure of lead guitarist, Richie Sambora. I’m sure their upcoming tour will still be as highly successful as ever, and the fans will not let Jon Bon down!

Back On The Scene

I apologise for the delay in posts, I've been so wrapped up in school work and blah blah, it's been crazy! But now I'm back, and more determined than ever.

In the next few weeks I will be enlightening the world with reviews and new music, and have a determination to keep it up this time!